The Sun Daily-121222 Jumaat

INSIDE

TELLING IT AS IT IS Ministry to focus Backup plan
on seven thrusts for gig sector
2 3page page

in education workers

ON FRIDAY DECEMBER 16, 2022 ART MAGIC ... A model poses at the Van Gogh Alive

No. 8170 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my exhibition, that features massive floor-to-ceiling projections of
masterpieces by the famous Dutch painter at Pavilion Bukit
Jalil in Kuala Kumpur. The gallery will be open to the public
from tomorrow until March 16. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Be careful
oRemoving power tariff subsidies for MNC may cause them to
pass on higher cost to SMEs that buy raw materials from them

█ BY RAJVINDER SINGH millions of ringgit in profits. ascertaining which major government’s decision not to increase
newsdesk@thesundaily.com Anwar also said the government will not MNC produce goods for electricity tariffs for SMEs, which are just small
local consumption and producers of mainly local products and the
PETALING JAYA: While welcoming the proceed with earlier suggestions to have a what can be done to help backbone of the manufacturing sector.
federal government’s decision not to blanket rise in electricity tariffs as this will them keep costs down.” However, he cautioned that the government
increase electricity tariffs for burden the public. should be careful when raising
households and SMEs, the Federation Marimuthu said the idea electricity tariffs for MNC as the
of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) He said Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) has of continuously providing increase must not be too steep. Turn to
has urged the government to be careful when almost 10 million consumers but 10% or one subsidies to help everyone is no
increasing it for multinational corporations million of them are conglomerates that enjoy longer viable. Therefore, the He said this is because many —
(MNC) that export their products. more than 50% in electricity subsidy. government needs a five to SMEs buy their raw materials from
10-year plan to reduce subsidies while page 3
Fomca president Datuk Dr Marimuthu Marimuthu said: “While it is understandable minimising the impact on the people.
Nadason said this is because not all MNC that tariffs have to increase due to the high cost MNC as well.
products are exclusively exported. of producing electricity, in the interest of He added that the prices of goods and
transparency, the government should also services are certain to go up no matter what the
“Some of them also market their products provide the public with data to show by how government does as it is a global phenomenon.
locally, so the government must be prudent much the cost has gone up.
when increasing tariffs so it does not have a “The only thing the government can do is to
major impact on the public.” “The fact is that higher tariffs will result in try and reduce its effects on the public. The
higher costs to manufacturers. If the goods people also have a right to know why electricity
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri produced by MNC are exclusively for export, prices keep going up.
Anwar Ibrahim indicated a potential increase in then we welcome it.
electricity tariffs for MNC that export their SME Association of Malaysia president Ding
products and the withdrawal of subsidies for “But if they are for local consumers as well, Hong Sing said while he understood the need to
selected profitable “giant” companies that earn then we urge the government to study what it increase the tariff rates since coal prices have
can do to help the public as well as gone up tremendously, he welcomed the
manufacturers. This can be done by

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Govt to discuss Ministry to focus on
access fee cut seven thrusts in education
with telcos

KUALA LUMPUR: The
Communications and Digital Ministry is
looking into the possibility of reducing
the price of services offered by local
telecommunications companies
(telcos). PUTRAJAYA: The Education o Primary attention will be on poverty issues challenge the ministry would have
Communications and Digital Ministry will focus on seven main of children from B40 families, including to shoulder to ensure a fair
Minister Fahmi Fadzil said he had asked thrusts by ensuring the various malnutrition, devices and learning space meeting point becomes a reality by
the Malaysian Communications and initiatives provided will be retained the unity government.
Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and and improved as needed.
telcos to conduct a study in order to fulfil Fadhlina also said the ministry
the people’s aspiration for cheaper Education Minister Fadhlina would reactivate the National
telecommunication services. Sidek said one of seven thrusts is to Education Advisory Council, as
“I am holding talks with MCMC and pay attention to multi-dimensional on the welfare of teachers. formation of manners, morals and provided under the Education Act
telcos to explore ways to reduce costs. poverty issues of children from B40 She would ensure teachers are integrity, and focusing on efforts to 1996.
Many young people are hoping that the families, including in terms of given the necessary professional renovate and upgrade dilapidated
prices for internet and line services can malnutrition, devices and learning support and focus on the issues schools, especially in Sabah and The council would be chaired
be reduced. So I have asked them to look space. faced by them, such as heavy Sarawak, are also among the seven by her and its 15 committee
into what we can do now. workloads and the stress of staying main thrusts of the ministry. members who would be chosen
“Maybe in the coming weeks I will “I will also work closely with the apart from their spouses. comprising stakeholders, activists,
have a special announcement to make,” relevant agencies to address the She said the ministry would The Nibong Tebal member of teachers, former teachers and
he said in a programme streamed on issue of family poverty, which has a increase the digital education Parliament also announced that academics.
Nasional FM Facebook yesterday. direct impact on the children’s capability in schools, with the the ministry would continue
Also present was Broadcasting education,” she said at the ministry ministry holding engagement implementing existing policies and “With the existence of the
Director-General Datuk Che Roslan Che yesterday. sessions with the central agency. improve the delivery process to council, it is hoped that it would
Daud. Making communications ensure its efficiency and help to contribute ideas and views
Fahmi also said he was studying the Fadhlina said the ministry between the ministry and schools effectiveness as it continues to to the ministry in formulating and
best ways possible to improve the quality would also pay attention to the more efficient and transparent, review and carefully analyse each improving the direction of national
of services and resolve issues concerning issue of dropouts (lost giving emphasis to the aspect of matter that needs to be decided. education.
4G and 5G network access in certain generation) as well as literacy human dignity through the
areas of the country. – Bernama and numeracy problems so that She admitted that managing “This includes considering the
the education gap that exists can public expectations was a continuity of the Malaysian
be bridged apart from focusing Education Blueprint, which will
end in 2025.” – Bernama

RM12 million to Minister: Make
resolve flood upkeep of
woes in Pasir Mas public facilities
a culture
PASIR MAS: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday KUALA LUMPUR: The
announced an immediate allocation of maintenance of facilities
RM12 million to provide six units of high- involving public transport must
powered portable pumps to resolve the become a culture in the country
problem of stagnant floodwaters in Pasir so that such services can remain
Mas. at the optimum level, said
Transport Minister Anthony
He said the pumps, each costing RM2 Loke.
million, would be used to drain floodwaters He added that such a culture
into Sungai Golok. must become a norm among
those who are entrusted with
“Floods do occur every year but we such duties so that there is
should not manage it on a seasonal basis as consistency in the performance
it will take a long time to recover. of such facilities, instead of
taking action when an issue on
“I have chaired the flood cabinet maintenance of a certain facility
committee meeting with the agencies arises.
involved. The master plan for Kelantan “Therefore, I hope we can
involves a cost of RM2.1 billion and as a ensure the maintenance system
short-term solution, (the government) has can remain at the optimum level
approved an immediate allocation to all the time. I am sure such an
provide portable pumps on a government- initiative can be carried out and
to-government basis,” he said after at the same time an audit on
attending a briefing on the flood situation in such facilities must be carried
Pasir Mas at the Pasir Mas Land and District out all the time.
Office yesterday. “I have asked Prasarana
Malaysia Berhad (Prasarana)
Also present were Kelantan Mentri Besar and Keretapi Tanah Melayu
Datuk Ahmad Yakob and Deputy Minister FRIENDLY BANTER ... Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan speaking to a senior citizen in Rembau, Negri Berhad to attend a post-cabinet
in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Sembilan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC meeting at the Transport
Wilson Ugak Kumbong. Ministry. It was brought to my

Ahmad Zahid added that leaders should
set aside their political differences and be
“colour blind” when tackling flood problem.
– Bernama

Aid, incentives to flood victims by previous govt to continue attention that both have not
been invited for such meetings
for two years,” he said after
launching the 12th Malaysia-
PASIR MAS: All aid and incentives Kebangsaan Gual Tok Deh yesterday. government will contribute RM10,000 On damaged roads in the rural China Entrepreneurs
given by the previous government to Also present were Kelantan Mentri for each household affected by the areas, Ahmad Zahid said the matter Conference yesterday.
flood victims will be continued, floods in Terengganu and Kelantan. was being coordinated to implement Loke said the meeting would
including the Bantuan Wang Ihsan of Besar Datuk Ahmad Yakob, Deputy immediate measures by the ministry. focus on the operation of the
RM1,000 to each household, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s He said the aid would include public transport system,
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Department Datuk Wilson Ugak RM2,500 for the purchase of essential In a related development, Ahmad commuters and maintenance of
Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Kumbong and Rantau Panjang goods, a discount for vehicle repairs, a Zahid said the government would also facilities, which involves the two
member of Parliament Datuk Siti RM500 rebate for the purchase of continue to carry out long-term flood service providers.
He added that the aid would only be Zailah Mohd Yusoff. electrical appliances and repair of management to overcome the “I want to make sure not only
given to registered and eligible flood houses damaged in the floods. country’s flood problems until 2100. the ‘highlighted’ areas are given
victims. Ahmad Zahid, who is also rural and focus, but all stations need the
regional development minister, said Ahmad Zahid said the government He said it would be carried out in same initiative,” he said.
“This payment will be made soon the government together with the is also committed to continuing any phases over a 78-year period. Loke also thanked Prasarana,
before the flood recedes and (before) implementing agencies will continue project that has been approved by the MRT Corp, the local
the victims return to their respective to take proactive measures to ensure previous administration, such as flood “These flood mitigation projects, government in Kuala Lumpur
homes. the aid can be channelled smoothly mitigation, which will be implemented which involve a huge allocation, will and Kuala Lumpur City Hall for
and in an orderly manner. as soon as possible. be carried out in phases in areas that their quick action in upgrading
“Based on past experience, we often experience floods,” he said, facilities for the public.
found that the number of registered Prior to this, the previous “During the special Parliament adding that the projects would – Bernama
flood victims is not the same as the government under then prime session on Dec 19, the government will include the deepening of river
number of applications,” he said after minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri table the emoluments and expenses for estuaries to facilitate the flow of water
visiting flood victims at Sekolah Yaakob announced that the ongoing projects,” he said. to the sea. – Bernama

3theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
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Backup plan for gig sector workers

o TVET offers platform for development the lack of sustainability or career market. It focuses on developing careers as social media influencers or
of occupational skills to boost employability development. While it gives flexibility technical skills that increase the gig workers.
when seeking permanent career and financial independence, those chances of employability, regardless
employed do not learn new skills. of academic achievements. Everyone “As a way to tackle this issue, TVET
█ BY ARINA MUSTHAFA million of the 4.36 million graduates Being food delivery workers limit has unique learning abilities, and should be promoted as an alternative
newsdesk@thesundaily.com in the workforce. They were largely their personal and career growth,” such hands-on training would help channel to obtain qualifications,
PETALING JAYA: The Covid-19 employed in the gig industry, she told theSun. prepare them for employment in a apart from the common route of
pandemic has changed life as we according to a July 2021 report by the real-world setting. earning a university degree.”
knew it. It even prompted the birth of Statistics Department. Parimala said while the gig
new businesses, such as food industry can be a platform to earn “There is a high demand for TVET Hamdan said TVET is a broad
delivery. Many unemployed Human resource specialist additional income, it should not be a graduates with technical skills in the field with multitudes of industries
individuals were drawn to it and Parimala Ponnusamy said while gig permanent job, adding that unstable market, where everyone has an under its scope, which includes
started working in what is known workers may make good money, they income and job insecurity will leave equal opportunity to advance in engineering, commerce, machinery,
today as the gig economy. do not develop any “real” job skills. them financially vulnerable when their careers.” automotive, construction, culinary,
attempting to secure a loan or tourism, fashion design, marketing,
But do food delivery workers have “Once these youths hit their late support a family. Universiti Selangor deputy vice- accountancy, graphic design and
a future? 30s and 40s, they may decide to get chancellor (students development biotechnology.
a job in a company. She said the lack of soft skills that and community engagement) Assoc
While some claim to earn as much are needed to function in a Prof Dr Hamdan Mohd Salleh said “TVET and skills-based industries
as RM7,000 a month, what will “But who will employ them? What traditional workplace will hinder TVET fills the gaps for those who have been sidelined for some
happen as they get older? skills would they have learned as food their career development in the failed to do well academically and time, and it is stigmatised in
delivery workers? Which food long run. helps them have a stable career society as second-class education
Consider this too. In Malaysia, delivery platforms provide training or instead of merely surviving in the compared with more ‘professional’
graduates employed in semi-skilled career advancement opportunities But such setbacks can be gig industry. service-based industries.
jobs account for 28.9%, or 1.26 for their riders? remedied through Technical and
Vocational Education and Training Some 390,000, or 72.1% of school “This narrow perspective must
“A downside of the gig economy is (TVET). leavers, did not continue their change to build a more economically
education in tertiary institutions last resilient nation, in which the idea of a
“TVET is a good programme to year, according to the Statistics society that gives equal opportunity
develop knowledge, skills and Department. Instead, they chose to technical and professional
abilities that are needed in the job industries should be adopted.”

Malaysian tower running champ raises bar Tariff hike may cause
price increase to be
█ BY ARINA MUSTHAFA To promote tower running as a sport that 15 competitions. passed on to public
newsdesk@thesundaily.com is synonymous with Malaysia, Soh expressed “I am very grateful for all the support I get,
KUALA LUMPUR: Champion tower runner hope the Youth and Sports Ministry would “If the electricity tariffs are increased too
Soh Wai Ching is aiming to set new records in introduce tower running as an event in the especially from the Better Malaysia much for MNC, they may raise the prices of
every event he plans to take part in next year. 2027 Southeast Asia (SEA) Games, that will Foundation, Petaling Jaya City Council, materials for SMEs, which ultimately will lead to
be hosted by Malaysia. Berjaya Corporation Berhad chairman Tan an increase in our prices. This will
“My goal for next year is to carry the Jalur Sri Vincent Tan, Petaling Jaya Mayor affect the consumer and defeat
Gemilang to the top step of all the “We (Malaysian tower runners) are Mohamad Azhan Md Amir, deputy chairman efforts made to protect the
international or local competitions that I will dominating the sports right now. We are of Berjaya Corporation Group Datin Seri public from higher prices. From
be participating in. ranked sixth worldwide, first place in the Sunita Rajakumar and the Malaysia
men’s category and 11th for the women’s. As Towerrunning Association.” “We can only hope that if front
“I am planning to break the world record the host for the 2027 SEA Games, we have the major manufacturers need to page
by running vertically on a stair climber upper hand in winning in this sport in an This year, Soh secured 19 wins in 20
machine in March and hopefully, I can break international competition.” tournaments. He scored 14 consecutive wins pass on the increased cost to
another world record when I run up the and set 11 new course records since June 5. SMEs, it should be in the region of 1%
Petronas Twin Towers in August as well,” Soh Despite being the only Asian to conquer to 2% so as not to have a major impact on our
told a press conference at Berjaya Times the Empire State Building in the US for two He has been officially ranked by production.”
Square yesterday. consecutive years, Soh plans to slow down in the Towerrunning World Association as
2023 and only focus on participating in 10 to the world’s number one tower runner
since April.

Ding said SMEs will do everything in their
power to protect consumers from price
increases, but it will depend on the cost passed
on to them by MNC.
He said at the moment, SMEs remain in the
dark on how much more their production cost
will increase once the new electricity tariffs
come into play.
In March, former energy and natural
resources minister Datuk Seri Takiyuddin
Hassan told Parliament the increase in coal
prices had caused the cost of generating
electricity to increase by 45%.
He said with the sharp rise in coal prices in
the global market, the actual cost had reached
US$105.09 (RM442) per tonne compared with
the projected price in 2021 of only US$67.45
per tonne.
As of yesterday, the price of coal was US$259
per tonne.
TNB Fuel Services sources coal from
Indonesia, Australia, South Africa and Russia,
but Indonesia accounts for approximately 65%
of its coal purchases.

Soh and Malaysia Towerrunning Association president Ravinder Singh during the press conference at Berjaya Times Square yesterday. No law currently
– ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN to regulate Airbnb

Party chiefs to sign unity govt agreement MALACCA: The state assembly here was told
yesterday that the absence of a specific law to
PUTRAJAYA: Political party chiefs who have government led by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. On which party manifesto would be regulate the operation of Airbnb services makes
expressed support for the unity government “There will be a signing ceremony implemented by the unity government, he it difficult for the state government to monitor
will sign an agreement today on their said the matter was not discussed. issues related to the sector, especially those
cooperation, said Deputy Prime Minister involving all parties that have agreed to the involving the safety of guests.
Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. formation of the unity government. (At the “One of our priorities is related to cost of
event, the media may) ask about the content living,” said Fadillah, who is also Plantation State Tourism, Heritage and Culture
Fadillah, who is also chief whip of of the agreement and its focus,” he said after a Industries and Commodities minister. Committee chairman Datuk Muhammad
Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS), said the convocation ceremony at the Institute of Jailani Khamis expressed hope the Tourism,
agreement would formalise their cooperation Malaysian Plantations and Commodities He added that he was to attend a GPS Arts and Culture Ministry would look into the
with Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the unity yesterday. meeting yesterday to study the content of the matter, as there is currently no law requiring the
agreement. – Bernama registration of Airbnb operators.

“We cannot monitor matters related to
safety, insurance and cleanliness of Airbnb
(premises),” he said in response to a
supplementary question by Low Chee Leong
(PH-Kota Laksamana) on the status of Airbnb
registration in the state. – Bernama

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Former judge honoured for DoE raids illegal
smelting factory
‘unflinching commitment’ KUALA KANGSAR: The Perak Department
of Environment (DoE) on Wednesday
oChiefjusticecommendsauthorof UpholdingtheFederal agencies, or a private matter, the public sees raided a factory found to be conducting
Constitution forexemplaryservice,groundbreaking judgements the courts as their avenue to seek justice. illegal smelting activities in an oil palm
plantation near Kampung Tasek Perkasa
█ BY DHARSHINI GANESON the Federal Constitution, especially when it “I have commented in the past that a judge and Kampung Bekor.
newsdesk@thesundaily.com came to fundamental liberties”. must always be conscious of the qualities (that
KUALA LUMPUR: Former High Court and make) a good judge, namely upholding State Science, Environment and Green
Court of Appeal judge Datuk Seri Hishamudin Rosli Dahlan, Saravana Partnership senior independence and integrity, maintaining Technology Committee chairman Teh Kok
Yunus was honoured on Wednesday for his partner Rosli Dahlan described Hishamudin impartiality, avoiding impropriety of any kind Lim said initial investigations found that
“unflinching commitment to judicial as being a “fearless judge” who upheld the and having a good grasp of the law. the factory was conducting smelting
independence” during the launch of his book, rule of law, while another senior partner at the activities using waste from electrical and
Upholding The Federal Constitution: The firm, Saravana Kumar, who was also the editor “Datuk Seri possesses all these essential electronic assemblies or SW110 scheduled
Judicial Thoughts Of Dato’ Seri Hishamudin of the book, said his inspiration for putting qualities, which made him stand out as a waste as one of the raw materials.
Yunus. together the collection of 15 articles, written respected judge.
by eminent lawyers, was the many He said the factory is believed to have
The event was officiated by the Yang di conversations with Hishamudin, whom he “The presence of the many judges, retired been operating without a licence for the
Pertuan Besar Negri Sembilan, Tuanku lauded (for) having written more than 700 judges and civil society leaders today is a last four months and efforts are being made
Muhriz ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir. judgements, many of which were dissenting testament to our recognition of his selfless to locate the owner.
ones. contributions to deliver justice in the course of
Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan upholding the Federal Constitution,” said “Since Nov 29, DoE has been
Mat, who was also present at the event, wrote In his royal address, Tuanku Muhriz urged Tuanku Muhriz, who mentioned the need to monitoring the factory, which is believed to
in the foreword of the book that Hishamudin civil society and other stakeholders to “take not only select independent judges but (to have been operating at night to avoid
served with distinction on the bench and the lead for meaningful discussions to be ensure) their representation reflects the detection by the authorities and is also
presided over matters without fear or favour. taken to achieve judicial independence as a “diversity of our multi-cultural society and the suspected of employing foreign workers
means of upholding the Federal Constitution”. composition of our Federation”. (illegally),” he said following an integrated
Maimum also praised Hishamudin for his operation against illegal factories on
groundbreaking judgements, which Tuanku Muhriz also mentioned that the The book covers various issues, including Wednesday.
according to her were a testament “to his firm rakyat goes to court to seek and obtain justice. personal liberty, free speech, native rights, the
commitment to upholding the supremacy of right to education, the right to equality and The operation, which started at 4.30pm
“Be it a criminal appeal, an appeal against natural justice and illustrates how, many of and ended at about 7pm, involved police,
the decision of the government or one of its Hishamudin’s landmark judgements over his the Kuala Kangsar Land and District
23 years on the bench, reflect his commitment Office, Perak Occupational Safety and
and dedication to upholding the supremacy of Health Department, State Immigration
the Constitution. Department and the Kuala Kangsar
Municipal Council.

Teh said no arrests were made during
the raid.

State DoE director Rosli Zul said
samples of the smelting waste will be sent
to the Chemistry Department for analysis.

He added that action will be taken
against the factory operator in accordance
with sections 18 and 19 of the
Environmental Quality Act 1974, for
carrying out activities without DoE
approval and for constructing a building
without proper approval respectively.

“DoE will also take action against the
factory operator under Section 34A(2) of
the same Act, for failing to submit an
Environmental Impact Assessment,“ he
said, adding that DoE will also take
action against the factory owner and
operator under the Environmental Quality
Regulations (Clean Air) 2014 and
the Environment (Scheduled Waste)
Regulations 2005.” – Bernama

Tuanku Muhriz flanked by Hishamudin (left) and Saravana at the book launch in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN RTD issues 632 notices
to errant motorists
I never dealt personally with Najib: Bank manager
KUALA LUMPUR: The Selangor Road
KUALA LUMPUR: The former AmBank Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, at Najib’s trial mandate holder for his accounts. Transport Department (RTD) issued 632
relationship manager who handled Datuk Seri involving the misappropriation of RM2.3 Previously, the witness testified that she notices for various traffic offences to
Najib Abdul Razak’s accounts yesterday told billion from 1Malaysia Development Berhad motorists during a two-hour integrated
the High Court that she had never dealt (1MDB). only dealt with Low or Nik Faisal with regard to operation at the Awan Besar toll plaza on
personally with the former prime minister Najib’s accounts. Wednesday.
regarding his accounts due to “protocol”. Muhammad Shafee: Who told you the
frightening story that you cannot see PM “In my experience, only Najib had RTD enforcement senior director Datuk
Joanna Yu Ging Ping, 51, said it was her (Najib)? appointed a mandate holder for his accounts Lokman Jamaan said the notices comprised
own perception that she should not deal and it was the first time I had handled a 498 summonses involving five major types
directly with him because he was the prime Yu: Perhaps my own perception. mandate holder’s account,” said Yu. of traffic offences, namely failing to comply
minister at the time. Muhammad Shafee: Nobody told you this, with traffic lights, driving on emergency
right? In response to this, Muhammad Shafee lanes, using mobile phones while driving,
“He was the prime minister at the material Yu: I don’t think (the) PM would have time said he himself had appointed two mandate overtaking at double lines and speeding.
time. He was a busy man. Usually, people like to meet me. holders for his accounts.
Mr Cheah Tek Kuang (former managing In response to another question, the Other notices issued included 81
director of AmBank), and fugitive witness agreed that it was not unusual for a Najib, 69, is facing four counts of using his inspection orders, 34 prohibitions on the
businessman Low Taek Jho would have met busy person like Najib to have a mandate position to obtain bribes totalling RM2.3 use of a vehicle, 10 weighing orders and
Najib and not people like us,” the 41st holder. billion from 1MDB and 21 counts of money nine vehicle seizures.
prosecution witness said in response to Najib had appointed former 1MDB chief laundering involving the same amount.
queries by Najib’s lead counsel, Tan Sri investment officer Nik Faisal Ariff Kamil as the “A total of 1,122 vehicles were inspected
The trial before Judge Datuk Collin and action was taken against 401 of them
Lawrence Sequerah continues on Jan 27 next for various offences,” he said, adding that
year. – Bernama aside from the RTD, the operation
also involved personnel from other
agencies, including the Immigration
Department, National Anti-Drugs Agency
(Nada), Department of Environment
(DoE), Computerised Vehicle Inspection
Centre, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption
Commission and police.

He said the joint-operation saw DoE
checking 15 vehicles and taking
action against eight for noise pollution,
while 12 foreigners were detained by the
Immigration Department for not having
valid identification documents.

Lokman added that the operation also
saw the arrests of six individuals by Nada for
drug-related offences. – Bernama

5theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022

6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
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UK nurses begin unprecedented walkout

LONDON: National Health Service (NHS) network and postal service, and airports College of Nursing union (RCN) head Pat which Cullen said raised the prospect of more
nurses in Britain staged a strike yesterday, their bracing for disruption over Christmas. Cullen told BBC on a picket line yesterday. strikes.
first ever national walkout, as a bitter dispute
with the government over pay ramps up Inflation running at more than 10%, trailed The industrial action by nurses yesterday “Every room I go into with the secretary of
pressure on already-stretched hospitals at one by pay offers of around 4%, is stoking tensions and on Dec 20 is unprecedented in the British state, he tells me he can talk about anything but
of the busiest times of year. between unions and employers. nursing union’s 106-year history, but the RCN pay.”
said it has no choice as workers struggle to
An estimated 100,000 nurses will strike at 76 Of all the strikes though, it will be the sight of make ends meet. Outside St Thomas’ Hospital in London,
hospitals and health centres, cancelling an nurses on picket lines that will be the standout Ethnea Vaughan, 50, said she felt nurses had no
estimated 70,000 appointments, procedures image for many Britons this winter. Nurses want a 19% pay rise, arguing they option but to strike, blaming a government that
and surgeries in Britain’s state-funded NHS. have suffered a decade of real-terms cuts and had ignored their concerns for years.
“What a tragic day. This is a tragic day for that low pay means staff shortages and unsafe
Britain is facing a wave of industrial action nursing, it is a tragic day for patients, patients in care for patients. “Nothing is changing and I’ve been in
this winter, with strikes crippling the rail hospitals like this, and it is a tragic day for nursing for 27 years and all I can see is a steady
people of this society and for our NHS,” Royal The government has refused to discuss pay, decline in morale.”– Reuters

WHO eyes end to Covid BRIEFS PERU DECLARES STATE
emergency next year OF EMERGENCY

oVirus will not go away, all countries need to learn emergency, which has upended economies and LIMA: Peru declared a nationwide
to manage it, says agency chief left millions suffering ongoing symptoms, it needs state of emergency on Wednesday
to understand how the pandemic began. over violent protests against the
GENEVA: The World Health Organisation The WHO emergency committee on ouster and arrest of ex-president
(WHO) said on Wednesday it hoped Covid-19 Covid-19, which advises Tedros on whether the The first cases of Covid-19 were recorded in Pedro Castillo that have left seven
would no longer be a public health emergency virus constitutes a public health emergency of the Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019. people dead. Castillo’s supporters
in 2023, as it urged China to share information international concern, will discuss the criteria have taken to the streets and set up
that could pinpoint how the pandemic started. for declaring an end to the emergency phase “We continue to call on China to share the roadblocks countrywide in protests
when they next meet in January. data and conduct the studies that we have that have also left 200 injured as they
As the third anniversary of the original requested, to better understand the origins of demand his release and the holding
outbreak rolls around, WHO said the virus was WHO Covid-19 technical lead Maria Van this virus,” Tedros said. of early elections. Defence Minister
here to stay but would need managing Kerkhove said the committee would look at the Alberto Otarola announced a 30-day
alongside other respiratory illnesses. epidemiology, variants like Omicron and the “All hypotheses remain on the table,” he state of emergency due to “acts of
impact of the virus. said, adding that this includes the theory that vandalism and violence” and
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom the virus escaped from Wuhan’s virology labs. roadblocks, and said police and
Ghebreyesus said the weekly Covid death toll While waves of infection are still expected, soldiers “would have control of the
was now around a fifth of what it was a year ago. the pandemic “is not what it was in the Tedros said the virus had been around so whole territory”. He said the measure
beginning”, with cases resulting in fewer long, it was almost part of the family. involved “the suspension of freedom
“Last week, less than 10,000 people lost their hospitalisations and deaths, she said. of movement and assembly” and
lives. That’s still 10,000 too many and there is “This virus will not go away. It’s here to stay could also include a curfew. – AFP
still a lot that all countries can do to save lives. Nearly 650 million confirmed Covid cases and all countries will need to learn to manage it
and 6.6 million deaths have been reported to alongside other respiratory illnesses.” SHALLOW EARTHQUAKE
“But we have come a long way. WHO, though the UN health agency JOLTS TAIWAN
“We are hopeful that at some point next year, acknowledged this will be a vast undercount. WHO vaccines chief Kate O’Brien said the
we will be able to say that Covid-19 is no longer current crop of Covid jabs do not prevent TAIPEI: A 6.2-magnitude earthquake
a global health emergency.” Tedros said as the world looks to end the Covid people from catching the virus to the level that struck off Taiwan’s eastern coast
had been hoped for. yesterday followed by multiple
lighter aftershocks, the weather
“We would love to have vaccines that are bureau said, with shaking felt in the
more effective and have greater duration of capital. The quake hit just after
protection,” she said, calling for more midday about 30km off the coast of
investment in research and development. – AFP Hualien County at a shallow depth of
6km. There were no immediate
Pelosi attack reports of damage or casualties. “The
suspect also earthquake was felt all over Taiwan
targeted Tom because it’s very shallow,” the
Hanks, court told weather bureau’s seismological
centre head Chen Kuo-chang
WASHINGTON: The man accused of DIRECT HIT ... Smoke and debris rising as the Kherson Regional State Administration building in told reporters. “There have been
attacking US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s Ukraine is battered by Russian shelling. – REUTERSPIC eight aftershocks so far and we
husband with a hammer had a list of future expect more aftershocks in the next
targets that included Hollywood superstar three days.” – AFP
Tom Hanks, a court heard on Wednesday.
Dozens dead after
David DePape told police he had drinking toxic
intended to kidnap the Democratic Party’s alcohol in India
top politician in Congress and get her to
admit to “lies” or he would smash her NEW DELHI: Dozens of people have
kneecaps. died and several others have been
hospitalised in India after drinking toxic
But when he broke into her San alcohol, authorities said yesterday.
Francisco home in October, he instead
found her 82-year-old husband Paul Pelosi, The deaths happened mainly in two
and after what he told officers was a “pretty villages in the eastern state of Bihar,
amicable” exchange, bludgeoned him with a where the sale and consumption of
hammer. liquor are prohibited.

San Francisco Superior Court Judge Such bans are in force in several
Stephen Murphy ruled on Wednesday that Indian states, driving a thriving black
there was enough evidence for 42-year-old market for cheap alcohol made in
DePape, a Canadian former public nudity unregulated backstreet distilleries.
activist, to stand trial over the assault, which
left Paul with a fractured skull. In the latest incident, men in Saran
district began vomiting on Tuesday
DePape denied the charges of attempted before their condition deteriorated.
murder, assault with a deadly weapon, elder
abuse, residential burglary, false Three died on the way to hospital and
imprisonment and threatening the life of or others died while being treated on
causing serious bodily harm to a public official. Wednesday and yesterday, with local
media reports putting the toll at 31.
The defendant told investigators he was
also looking at other high-profile targets, the Health officials said 22 post-mortem
court heard. examinations had been conducted so far.

These included Hanks, California Senior police officer Santosh Kumar
Governor Gavin Newsom and Hunter Biden, said authorities had cracked down on
son of President Joe Biden and the frequent illicit alcohol shops in the area.
target of rightwing conspiracy theorists.
“We have arrested over a dozen liquor
DePape was ordered to appear in court traders and detained some others.”
again on Dec 28 for arraignment. – AFP
Of the estimated five billion litres of
alcohol drunk every year in the country,
around 40% is illegally produced,
according to the International Spirits and
Wine Association of India.

Illicit liquor is often spiked with
methanol to increase its potency.

If ingested, methanol can cause
blindness, liver damage and death. – AFP

FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN 7theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
ME * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
/theSunMedia

We do not alter search Indonesia approves Singapore
extradition treaty
rankings: Google JAKARTA: Indonesia’s Parliament years complained about what they
yesterday approved an extradition said is the freedom enjoyed by
treaty with Singapore that will help fugitives in the neighbouring
the government track down country, where they have allegedly
corruption suspects who have taken pumped hundreds of millions of
sanctuary or stored money offshore dollars into banks and property.
Government adviser and lawyer in the city-state. Lawmakers passed the Bill at a
o HK govt adviser claims tech giant may be Ronny Tong said Google may be The Indonesian government is plenary session yesterday and it is
committing the national security trying to retrieve billions of dollars in expected to be signed into law by
‘assisting secession’ in protest song row crime of “assisting secession”. bailout money handed out during President Joko Widodo.
Data scientist Wong Ho-wa said financial crises in the late 1990s and “The extradition treaty will make
the more Hong Kong officials 2008 never repaid by suspects it easier for law enforcers to resolve a
HONG KONG: Google said He described the company’s brought up the issue, the higher the Jakarta calls “economic criminals”, crime when the criminals are in
yesterday it does not manipulate explanation – that results were protest song would go in search believed to be hiding in Singapore. Singapore,” said Justice and Human
search results, after the city’s based on algorithms – as “evasive” results. – AFP Indonesian officials have for Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly. – AFP
government said the tech giant had and “inconceivable”.
refused its demand to bury a Chief Executive John Lee said this
popular protest song. week that Google had a “moral
The controversy began after it obligation” to respect a country’s
emerged that links to the national anthem, while the Chinese
pro-democracy song Glory to Hong Foreign Ministry said internet
Kong appeared ahead of China’s companies “have a duty to deliver
official March of the Volunteers when correct information to the public”.
people searched for the city’s anthem. Google told AFP it was in contact
The song was accidentally played with Hong Kong’s government to
for Hong Kong athletes at two explain “how our platforms and
international sports events last removal policies work”.
month, prompting the demand from “We do not remove web results
the Chinese city to delist it from except for specific reasons outlined
search results. in our global policy documentation.”
“Google handles billions of Both Tang and Lee have argued
search queries every day, so we build that Google search results can be
ranking systems to automatically manipulated, citing the placement
surface relevant, high quality and of ads and the deletion of certain
helpful information,” the tech giant results to comply with privacy laws
said in a statement. in the European Union.
“We do not manually manipulate Police have been asked to
organic web listings to determine investigate whether the anthem
the ranking of a specific page.” mix-up in South Korea was a
Hong Kong security chief Chris violation of the city’s national
Tang said on Monday that Google had security law, which Beijing imposed HORRIFIC POLLUTION ... A man collecting plastic from the polluted Citarum River in the Indonesian regency of West
refused the government’s request. on Hong Kong in 2020. Bandung. – AFPPIC

8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
SPEAK UP

COMMENT by Dr Rais Hussin

Cleaning up is part of PM’s job
CERTAIN quarters are calling out
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar role for all lawmakers, what more for the The focus of IA is: Related to attracting foreign
Ibrahim to “stop behaving like PM and finance minister. 1. Unity and Tolerance: Spousing a investments, there should be a revival of
an Opposition leader”, likely The fish rots from the head and common identity will serve the collective Malaysia as a destination for tourists, and
triggered by Anwar’s probing of the similarly, culture starts from the top. If interest of society. this requires a full appreciation of the
potential squandering of billions worth of Anwar wants to change the deep and “Instilling a 2. Radical Transparency and Good intersection between tourism, art and
funds, allegedly associated with the widespread corruption culture, then it new culture of Governance: Anwar’s contemporary culture. The importance and magnitude
previous government. starts with him. Thus, Anwar is staying abhorrence of “Reformasi” movement means of Malaysia’s creative industry in the
true to his brand (which should also be corruption is implementing genuine institutional world today must not be underestimated.
It is unclear how one would define a other politicians’ brand) of absolute needed to reforms, moving towards an impact-
“real” prime minister (PM), but if setting rejection of corruption. avoid oriented use of government resources The IA suggested above and promoted
high standards, carrying the economic Malaysia has many issues, and Anwar repeating that quantifies and measures outcomes by the new administration would be a
burden with the people, having his first is doing a tough balancing act. It has only issues that and results. holistic movement in which the
order of business to look into the been a few days and his priorities are very have long 3. Curbing Costs: Disintermediation government can take the lead to replace
“tummy” economy and cost of living clear – people, people, people! And make plagued the and breaking up monopolies should be outdated and broken old systems at the
issues while simultaneously tackling no mistake that cleaning up a corrupt nation. The the administration’s top priority, focusing pain points of society, institutions and
potential mega corruption cases and system is ultimately for the benefit of culture from on bloated value chains with restricted the economy. It is also to replace
scandals and balancing tricky Cabinet the people. Democracy is hard work, the top must approved permits for such as rice, sugar unfair exploitation, with impartial
dynamics to ensure stability do not fit into and addressing immediate-term be set now to and other agricultural items. empowerment, to better serve the needs
the definition, then I do not know what is. socioeconomic issues is one thing, but rebuild 4. Food Security: The government of the people now and for Malaysia’s
repairing a broken system is even harder. government and agricultural government-linked future progress.
Anwar set a high bar by example when While Anwar is doing what is good for institutions companies must take the lead in investing
he chose not to take a salary despite the nation and the people, he is also with the right in and promoting the use of innovative Thus, Anwar’s administration has a
helming two roles, and was able to get cleaning up the mess left behind due to governance technologies and sustainable practices in clear and well defined path. It is doing all
the ministers to agree to a 20% salary poor governance and integrity of the past. and integrity. farming, fishing and livestock so that they of it and setting up future waypoints.
reduction as a sign of sharing the Addressing near-term economic issues become innovation industries. Thus, cleaning up remains a priority and
economic burden with the rakyat. must go hand-in-hand with sowing the 5. Digital Transformation: must be done in tandem.
long-term seeds of change. Complementing local startups with
Additionally, within a short timeframe, It is inevitable that Anwar will carry his internationally sourced IP and knowledge Instilling a new culture of abhorrence
we see efforts to drop the prices of eggs, brand of reforms, which, whether some transfer from wherever it exists so that it of corruption is needed to avoid repeating
with storage plans to ensure sustainable like it or not, entails uncovering scandals not only finds a thriving community and issues that have long plagued the nation.
supply. and putting a stop to corrupt deals and ecosystem in Malaysia but also serves as a The culture from the top must be set now
practices. Reforms have been the central launching pad for spring-boarding into to rebuild government institutions with
On top of this, given how gambling has messaging in Pakatan Harapan and in its the exciting digital marketplaces in the right governance and integrity. This is
serious impacts on society, whereby it election manifesto, so when it was voted Southeast Asia. not “just another government”. As
has been associated with addiction, into power, it only makes sense to pursue 6. Sunrise Technologies: Cleantech Einstein said, doing the same things and
bankruptcy, crime, family problems such what it has been fighting for. companies will surely become the largest expecting different results is insanity. In
as divorce and domestic abuse and even Not to mention that it is also what a enterprises in the world, replacing tech contrast, Anwar’s administration signals a
suicide, Anwar’s administration reduced lot of voters want as evidently shown by giants in the not-too-distant future. The systemic shift to create a system that is
special lottery draws to just eight per year Pakatan Harapan garnering the highest existential challenges of climate change radically transparent that benefits many,
from 22 under the Perikatan Nasional share of popular votes. are engendering a shift in consciousness not an opaque system for only the elites.
reign. This is for the society’s benefit. In other words, it is not only staying in the way that humans balance their
true to its mission but is upholding the consumption with the environment. It will shake the boat and many will try
While focusing on the people, Anwar mandate of the people. 7. Foreign Investment: Reverse to fight back but it is a necessary battle.
did not forget to look into potential Moving forward, Anwar’s Malaysia’s diminishing role as an Thus, all of these are part of the plan
misappropriation of funds, corruption administration should look into the investment destination of choice. Build where expectations and timelines will be
and potential scandals, which are all well “Innovation Agenda” (IA), which has the up its public and private marketplaces set. Let the process of resetting Malaysia
within his role as PM and finance potential to cover the new mandate and exchanges so that it is worthy of unfold accordingly.
minister. aimed squarely at social, institutional and attracting global funding sources looking
economic challenges that demand the for high quality, high tech, high-value Dr Rais Hussin is the president and
Thus, contrary to the statement, this is government’s most immediate attention. investment returns. chief executive officer of EMIR Research,
indeed one of the roles of the PM. It is
wrong to think that uncovering scandals, a think tank focused on strategic policy
corruption and fighting syndicates and recommendations based on
cartels are simply the role of an rigorous research.
Opposition leader. If anything, this is a
Comments: letters@thesundaily.com.

COMMENT by Prof Paolo Casadio and Prof GeoffreyWilliams

Change electricity tariffs to tackle cost of living

THE new unity government in Malaysia is for the community and no loss from the consistent structural reform plan should be rural communities and so on. This is a good
focusing on the tariffs and prices of electricity as public sector. implemented on the supply-side to promote initiative that has been recommended by other
part of their efforts to control the cost of living, more agile, competitive and contestable economists.
and this makes sense. Following this line of thought, the markets, removing some of the cartels,
government can immediately change the monopolies or complex regulatory structures The lessons from history tell us that there is
Last year, on the back of a sudden and electricity tariffs, which can be effective as early which create inefficiencies. In this scenario, no decoupling. If as expected, the international
consistent increase in costs due to higher oil and as January. The change can be made in three Bank Negara can reassess the situation and opt economy goes through a phase of slowdown or
gas prices, Tenaga National Berhad (TNB) steps. First, the government can bring back the for a pause in interest-rate hikes, leaving them at even recession, Malaysia will be dragged down
increased tariffs for non-residential and energy tariffs to the previous level, which would the current level. too. In this case, the best policies to minimise the
business customers to protect revenues and cut headline inflation immediately by 0.3%, impact and the duration of any contraction will
profits against higher costs. according to our estimates. In our projections, the effects of these require keeping inflation low to protect Malaysia
combined measures and structural changes can from the rest of the world. This cannot be done
We estimate this added about 0.5% to Second, the government can change the reduce inflation quickly. We estimate that again with price caps and subsidies, and so new
headline inflation as higher tariffs were passed tiered-pricing system to cut tariffs for smaller headline inflation would fall below 3% in the ideas must be put in place.
through to customers by some businesses, companies and those that use less electricity, next three months and then stabilise around
mainly in the service sector such as hotels and and raise the tariffs for larger companies and 2.5% by the middle of next year. An important change in the way companies
restaurants, where demand was buoyant due to those with high electricity usage. This has the work is essential, especially among GLCs. The
the reopening of the economy. added environmental advantage of encouraging Combined with other effects such as lower mistake of the past is to think in terms of a single
energy efficiency to cut electricity use and lower global inflation, exchange rate effects and company looking for a balance of costs and
They had no problem in transferring the their carbon footprint. baseline effects, inflation could fall even lower revenues rather than to look across the
increase to consumer prices, and it helped them than this. companies as a whole.
recover some of the considerable costs they Finally, the government can use these
incurred during the Covid-19 crisis. Official data processes within the National Action Council on If oil prices begin to rise again, the target The government should leverage the
shows a significant increase in services from the Cost of Living (Naccol) to create a set of would shift from headline inflation to the advantages of the different GLCs to create a
hike, and these problems are still present in the meaningful incentives among all social and control of core inflation, which excludes oil price system of internal redistribution, with zero costs
core inflation measure. Others, such as business stakeholders to moderate or even effects. Keeping inflation low offers considerable for the public sector and significant benefits for
construction or wholesale businesses, could not freeze price increases over the coming months. competitive advantage versus international the private sector.
transfer tariff hikes and profit margins fell. That is to stop the pass-through in return for competitors.
lower tariffs. This would create a win-win Another innovation comes from the social
In retrospect, a better solution would have situation. This positive pathway for inflation is pact among stakeholder within Naccol to bring
been to keep the lower business tariffs and important because higher inflation creates quick and effective results that will protect
redistribute some profits across different Firms would have higher profit margins and distributional effects by cutting purchasing Malaysia during what is expected to be a delicate
government-linked companies and other large households would regain some of the power more among low-income groups period for the international economy.
companies, taking from those making money purchasing power lost during the peak in compared with high-income groups. There is a
and redistributing to TNB. This could be done inflation earlier this year. social protection effect too. Prof Paolo Casadio is an economist at HELP
through the existing tiered-pricing billing University and Prof Geoffrey Williams is an
system, with higher tariffs on larger companies The lower inflationary environment should To make the control of price rises more
or larger users and lower tariffs on small and also help to moderate inflation expectations focused, a new set of inflation measures should economist and Provost for Research and
medium enterprises that use less electricity, for which have become embedded over the last be created covering the different purchasing Innovation at Malaysia University of Science and
example. In this case, there would be no costs month or so. patterns of targeted social groups including
younger people, retired people, urban versus Technology. The views expressed are those of
Along with the tariff measures, a more the writers. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022

█ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN o Read on to learn more about five textiles that have
been held as examples of their nation’s cultural heritage
THE different fabrics from
throughout the world are garments and feature cosmological (left) Yuzen (above) The Philippines
one thing that everyone and everyday symbolism. involves pina’s airy The delicate and cutting-edge textile
finds intriguing. Bold and India drawing fabric is known as pina is produced in Aklan,
fascinating textiles come in a wide The Romans reportedly adored designs on suitable to the Philippines, from pineapple fibres
variety, and they all have intricate Bengal khadi (a fabric with a 5,000- white fabric tropical to create an environmentally
designs and brilliant colours that are year-old history) for its softness. with a paste climate. – THE friendly and sustainable filament
just as intriguing. But in the 1920s, it was Mahatma before dyeing TEXTILE ATLAS that can be used to make clothes like
Gandhi himself who popularised the fabric. – the Barong Tagalog, the country’s
Every culture has traditionally the textile. In order to promote WE’RE ALL (left) Indonesian traditional dress, or embellished
placed textiles at the centre of its Indian self-reliance and dissuade MADE IN Batik permeates with calado, a type of Filipino
sense of self, with each nation people from purchasing imported JAPAN the lives of the embroidery style.
having its own distinctive fabric that British apparel, the leader of the people and
reflects its identity. Indian independence movement thin, incredibly strong, and their culture. – Today, vegan leather and
encouraged wearing locally-created frequently plainly coloured when 123RF footwear are being produced using
One could hesitate to refer to it as clothing. made into tunics and jackets. Even The fabric is initially shaped into this age-old method.
just ‘cloth’ given the intention and some Indian fashion designers have the style of a kimono to make the Guatemala
laborious work that went into the This textile, which is made of started adding the material into traditional outfit. Before the fabric is Jaspe is a kind of regional resist-
design, colour schemes, and pattern cotton, silk, or wool, is always their most recent lines, fusing it with dip-dyed, the pattern is traced using dyed fabric that has a wide range of
selections. They serve as a showcase handspun and handwoven. It is denim. rice paste. The first white lines are colours and pattern variations, and
of culture and a means of Japan where the masterpiece begins. The is prized for its toughness and
transmitting history. Yuzen is a dye-resisting technique paste helps to protect the regions tenacity. The weave structure itself
frequently used to create kimono the artist does not want to colour is usually plain weave and it can be
Nevertheless, the industry faces fabric, and is distinguished by while other colours are then woven on backstrap or treadle
many challenges. These days, local delicate sketching of floral, avian, manually applied with a brush. looms, warped faced with vertical
craftspeople face competition from and human figures. Yuzen, which The final touches – a smoothing designs, weft-faced with horizontal
mass-produced fabrics, and fight to dates back to the 14th century, of the dry paint and a steaming lines, or balanced weave with jaspe
survive in a volatile economy. The developed from simple, one-colour procedure to remove the paste – are designs going in both directions.
availability of raw resources is dyes to multicoloured, intricately essential. These days, kimonos are
hampered by global warming. The patterned patterns that are a donned either professionally and Simple jaspe is woven in many
next generation of craftsmen are modern representation of Japan. casually, and Western designers villages throughout Guatemala.
taking up higher paid employment have produced replicas of them. When produced from jaspe cloth, as
to meet their needs. has been customary for the previous
few hundred years, the long,
Authentic fabrics might take rectangular scarf known as a rebozo
weeks to make, and there is just not is a representation of the blending of
enough revenue flow between sales. those two civilisations. It is used for
Some of the most talented weavers both head covering in church and
are frequently compelled to use carrying newborns and other heavy
simpler patterns in order to sell to objects.
visitors searching for low-cost gifts.
Khadi is known for its rugged texture. – TWITTER/@KVICINDIA
However, there is a growing
movement aroung the world to
revive interest in regional crafts.
Many young people are also open to
learning more about handmade
crafts.

Here are five countries that
produce some really beautiful and
unique textiles.
Indonesia
Traditional fabrics from Indonesia
come in a lot of varieties. The fact
that Indonesia is an island of
hundreds of islands is one factor
contributing to the wide variation.
Batik and ikat are the traditional
items to bring home.

Although they were developed in
Java, these wax-resistant dyeing
techniques are used all throughout
the islands. On fine cotton cloth
(batik) or straight on the threads
that will be woven, liquid is painted
in a variety of designs (ikat).

The wax-blocked patterns block
the dye when they are soaked in
layers of multicoloured dyes,
resulting in a cloth with gorgeous
patterns, pictures, and symbolic
motifs. Although the finished fabric
can also be coloured, the ikat
textiles’ patterns are made by
colouring the threads.

Decorative tenum ikat designs
often appear on ceremonial

10 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
BUZZ

█ BY SHOBANA MANOKARAN o Malaysian Deaf Batik Artist Lim Anuar shares his voice through his masterpieces

BATIK is both an art and a In the creative industry, the most
craft that is an undeniable difficult element of the creation
part of Malaysian culture. process is coming up with new ideas
But despite its wide and experimenting with new
popularity in the country, not all batik methods of making new work that is
enthusiasts are aware of the time- distinct from his past creations.
consuming technique required to
produce this priceless heritage. In 2013, two of his paintings were
chosen to be exhibited in the Arts
We recently discovered an Kuala Lumpur exhibition in Miami in
outstanding batik artist who shares conjunction with the Art Basel
his voice through his artistic works. Miami, Florida, United States, and
five of his paintings were also chosen
In a email interview with theSun, for the Arts Kuala Lumpur exhibition
Lim Anuar – who hails from Kuala 2014 & 2015 in Melbourne, Australia,
Lumpur and is a self-employed batik which was organised and supported
artist and art producer – expained his by National Visual Art Gallery and
journey through the art, hardships MATRADE.
and his inspirations.
He had the opportunity to
Lim Anuar has been Deaf since compete in many local and
birth. Lim’s mother was concerned international events, and he won
about his difficulties and went on a numerous awards. He represented
search for a special school for him. Malaysia’s disabled community in a
When his mother discovered the number of exhibitions and contests,
Federation School for the Deaf, she including those in Australia, India,
immediately sent him there for and Japan. He received a gold medal
training when he was three years old. (first prize) in silk painting while
representing Malaysia at the 8th
Lim returned to Kuala Lumpur International Abilympic (Olympic of
after finishing his education in order Ability) Competition in Korea in 2011.
to find work. Before pursuing a career
in art, he worked 14 different jobs. Lim (left) showing off one of his larger works. – ALL PIX BY LIM ANUAR

Lim first met Datin Khairiah them.” method to keep our environment
Khairuddin, the owner of Batik His inspiration comes from his clean, safe, and healthy, particularly
Sayang in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, in when climate change affects our daily
the 1990s, who offered him a job in experiences growing up in Penang, lives.
her batik factory. Lim accepted the which is home to people from all When we asked him about the
offer and began working part-time. walks of life. He portrays scenes from challenges he encountered as a Deaf
his childhood, as well as local flora artist, he said communicating was the
He began designing batik and fauna. most difficult.
souvenirs under her supervision, and “My Deafness put me in a very
his ideas surprised her so much that “I was motivated more by foreign disadvantage situation in life. I am
she later offered him a full-time tourists’ requests, so I chose to realise unable to express myself, share my
position at Batik Sayang. He then my idea through a series of batik thoughts, exchange ideas, or receive
began to explore huge potentials in paintings focused on the subject of information quickly. What hearing
the market for batik. traditions, culture, and heritage, individuals learn now, I [will find out]
which have been shown and a few months later.”
Lim enrolled in Limkokwing promoted all over the world so far,” he “There are some situations when I
University in 2005 in order to get a explained. struggle to cope, such as networking
formal qualification that would allow meetings, large group discussions,
him to seek employment prospects His first piece of art was titled One interviews, and phone conversations. One World, One Peace, his very first art and inspiration.
abroad. The management of World, One Peace, and it served as “Note-takers and interpreters are
Limkokwing University was so inspiration for his painting series not always easily available or advances, as a self-employed artist Currently, one of his paintings is
impressed that they invited him to be called Malaysian Life. affordable. This communication and art producer, he still faces a lot of on display at the National Visual Art
a resident artist and represent barrier has impacted my ability to uncertainty in terms of paid jobs and Gallery in Kuala Lumpur for the Open
Limkokwing University with a team of “Batik [technique] is still being properly advertise myself in-person. revenue. Show event, and he is working on a
four in the Piala Sri Iman batik created through my own way with It has also caused me to become shy It is difficult for him to pursue this large floor mural project measuring
painting competition in Terengganu, modern knowledge of the batik and withdrawn. line full-time because the Malaysian 7m x 120m.
materials, as well as design and “Deaf individuals can’t speak, and market is so limited, and he lacks In the near future, he hopes to
Gotong-royong II. themes of multicoloured shades and non-deaf people can’t sign well, so experience in art marketing and become a lecturer of art and design
where they won first place. effects,” he continued. they can’t communicate with one promotion. Obtaining money, for the Deaf in an academic
other.” mentorship, and training are also institution. He also wants to be an art
He was extremely pleased, His work allows him to ‘speak’ through He added: “Fortunately, new significant challenges. consultant and the manager of a Deaf
because he was the only Deaf his paintings. technology is developing at the Another difficulty he faces is artists’ art centre.
contestant, and earning first place moment, so we can resolve the managing his art business on his Lim aspires to be a professional
demonstrated that he was nothing “My present work is concerned communication barrier own. He learned through practice artist on an international scale. He
less than exceptional. with community themes such as independently through text, email, and by making mistakes. He also has hopes that by achieving his goal, the
gotong-royong.” and live transcription.” to balance the commercial side of public will be more willing to
When we questioned when he Despite these technological things while still creating artwork. recognise persons with disabilities as
became interested in the arts, Gotong-Royong II is his favourite equals and capable.
particularly batik, Lim said: “My work of art. In to the painting, the His current and planned projects
interest in the arts started when I was villagers’ teach their children to include creating fine art batik
about ten years old. sweep up leaves from the ground. paintings for wall hangings and mural
art, as well as engaging in group art
“My first exposure to batik was The spirit of goyong-royong draws exhibition events.
during a school lesson in Penang, all Malaysians together to join hands He is planning new fabric
where there was an art subject that and contribute to the community in paintings and hand-painted fashion
included batik painting. which they reside. It is a neighbourly for next year, as well as two events of
his solo batik art exhibition and
“I was trained in a variety of hand-painted fashion show in the
mediums, including batik painting future.
and linocut printing. He said: “I wanted to create a new
service/product of fabric painting
“There was a prominent Penang and handpainted fashion for
batik artist named Datuk Tay Mo promotion through a handpainted
Leong who inspired me to continue fashion show with OKU models and
my batik journey. I was also inspired an online shop to raise awareness.
by my favourite batik paintings by “I feel that our ‘self-improvement’
popular local batik artists, the late will inspire others in the art industry.
Ismail Mat Hussin from Kelantan and So I think anyone who are interested
the late Tan Thean Song from in working with us on future project
Penang, even though I never met collaboration or strategy planning are
Lim Anuar, together with his exhibited paintings. welcome to join us.”

11theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
BUZZ

Handweaving
was a highly
praised art form
in the ancient
Persian kingdom,
where Persian
rugs began. –
PINTEREST

█ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL o Discover the inside outs of this example
of the most artistic craft – the Persian rug
THE world’s oldest known
carpet goes all the way back This ancient city is located in west the finest Persian rugs. They are The Bakhtiari
to the 5th century BCE – and central Iran and is one of the most woven in the Kashan workshops of carpets,
it is a Persian rug. Due to the popular destinations to visit, with north central Iran. named after
expertise and skills required to beautiful art, architecture, palaces, the nomads
produce them, Persian rugs have and old bridges. Hence, mosque When one thinks of a traditional of the
been considered a luxurious tilework and palace gardens “Persian rug”, it is often Kashan Bakhtiari tribe
possession since the beginning. frequently serve as inspiration for the carpets from the past that come to who reside in
designs together with numerous mind, as they are among the best the Sagros
Antiquities experts and amateur floral patterns. They are often Persian rug examples, and are rich in Mountains
enthusiasts have long praised considered to be among the highest- floral patterns with red and navy blue near Esfahan,
Persian rugs for their beauty and quality rugs available due to their colours. are among
remarkable quality. Renowned for high knot count and widespread the most
their rich colours and unique designs acclaim. Other well-liked Kashan tones resilient of all
as well, these Persian rugs are made 2. Village and tribal rugs include cream and pistachio green. Persian rugs.
of all-natural stuff such as wool, silk, Rugs which have been woven in They are popular with both central filled with floral motives such as a
and vegetable dyes, rather than villages or by members of local tribes medallions and all-over patterns. willow tree, cypress tree, grapevine,
synthetic materials. That is why, are often made by families. They They are also known to be one of the vase, or a bird sitting on a branch.
apart from just being rugs for floor weave the rugs, often from memory most durable of all Persian rugs due Each compartment has a different
coverings, they are also considered or travel-inspired ideas, and sell to the wool from that particular area colour and theme from the ones next
works of art. them as a secondary source of being thick and fairly solid. to it.
income. Consequently, the design is
Persian rugs are also recognised more fluid and flexible. As opposed 0 Bakhtiari (Tribal) blues, navy, greens, brown, and beige
for their quality and durability due to to being woven in a large-scale, Antique Bakhtiari rugs, also known extensively applied.
their exquisite workmanship. With structured workshop like those seen as Bakhtiar or Bachtiar, were
careful care and maintenance, they in urban areas, these rugs are often handmade in Iran’s Zagros The garden design is the most
will endure for generations and their produced in houses or tents. Mountains by local villagers and common Bakhtiari design, and it
worth can frequently increase. 0 Kashan (Village) nomads. Bakhtiari rugs are mostly consists of square, rectangular,
Antique Kashan carpets are among geometric, sometimes semi- diamond, or hexagon compartments
This is the craft’s most geometric, and rarely have curves in
distiguished characteristic, and the the pattern.
primary reason why these items
remain so popular even today. Let’s The designs are thick, with strong
explore the various kinds of Persian hues including deep reds, bright
rugs and their design interpretations.
TYPES OF PERSIAN RUGS Kashan rugs (left)
There are usually three different are among the
types of Persian rugs, including city, most durable of
village, and tribal. Each one bears the all Persian rugs
name of the town or tribe that due to the wool
produced it. from that
1. City rugs particular area
The city rugs are known for their being thick and
superior quality and are woven in fairly solid.
organised workshops by weavers
who follow a layout blueprint on Esfahan rugs
paper. The Iranian city rug weavers (right) are of the
are recognised as “master weavers”, highest quality in
and some of them sign their work as terms of their
if it were a work of art. The majority of composition of
city weavers are men, and weaving is patterns,
often their sole source of income. materials, and
These types of city rugs includes designs.
those from Nain, Tabriz, Qum, and
Esfahan.
0 Esfahan

12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
BUZZ

Tuft Space co-founder Jean showing her skills. – BUZZ TEAM Glueing the back of the rug. – BUZZ TEAM

(left) Tuft
Space is a
place to
make art and
unwind. –
TUFT SPACE

o Tuft Space provides crafting workshops for
people to relax and make art, and co-founder
Jean shares how she lives a ‘tuft’ life

█ BY MARIETTA MU would generally take 4-6 hours, and going to a workshop to do tufting, you help others too.” (below)
when we were doing the tufting, it won’t need to invest in an expensive She decided to create a space Examples of
HUMANS have handmade was really therapeutic seeing the yarn tufting gun or figure out the technical finished rugs.
rugs out of every possible get fed into the cloth. It was sort of like stuff like setting up the wooden where others could escape from the – TUFT
material for millennia. colouring a picture, except with yarn. frame. hustle of daily life. SPACE
Ancient tribes wove Though after a while, sitting and In a month, Jean estimates that
together reeds and grasses to make holding the tufting gun did tire us a Both engineers by degree, founder “The absence of work-life balance they go through 100kg of yarn. With
primitive rugs and keep the cold bit as the gun weighed about 2kg, but Jean was working in an eCommerce definitely played a huge role in customers coming from all around
ground warm, and now, hand-woven it wasn’t too bad. corporate job while Lim worked in pushing me towards creating Tuft Malaysia and even Singapore, Jean
carpets are beloved for their artistic the material handling business before Space. I figured if I didn’t make any says that it’s interesting how she can
value. During the lockdown, many One of the technical issues we Tuft Space. However, coming from a changes, nothing was going to understand someone through the art
picked up creative hobbies to fill their faced was the yarn popping out of the corporate background as a change.” and colour choices they made.
days, and tufting was one of them. loop on the tufting gun. Usually, it consultant, work-life balance was a As like-minded people came to
was because our yarn rolls were too struggle for Jean, who realised it was a Of course, making the switch make art, they loved the experienced
Tufting requires either a manual small and fell each time they got neverending rat race. wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Jean created.
or electric gun, which is a handheld pulled, but Jean was always there to “I want to thank all the heartfelt
machine where yarn is fed through a make sure we were tufting right, and Having to deal with the pressures Jean advises: “The difference reviews and feedback I received from
needle and subsequently punched in diagnosing our problems. of work including doing daily between not starting and starting is my customers as it motivates us to
rapid succession through a backing overtime, Jean decided to manage the hardest and biggest step; but improve further so that we can
fabric. Automatic tufting guns have a For example, she helped us her stress with art, and that here’s the thing, if you never try, you provide the best tufting experience.”
sharp end which cuts the yarn after change to a new bigger yarn roll, or exploration led her to the world of will never know where your potential Currently, Tuft Space is working
each poke which creates the evenly- make sure that the space between the tufting. is. I would definitely suggest to take on a few collaborations to create
length grass-like pile carpet look. yarn lines was tight enough, and baby steps, doing it as a side hobby more tufted home decor, to take
soon, we were done colouring in our It started as a hobby, but soon whilst keeping your job first, and living essentials to another level.
The BUZZ team was invited to Tuft suns. Jean felt that it would be beneficial gradually transition if an upward Besides floor rugs, Tuft Space also
Space, helmed by Jean, 29 and her for others to experience the calm she potential is seen.” also allows you to create other
partner, Jeremy Lim, 29, who started After that, Jean’s assistant had with crafting. decorative pieces such as wall art
their craft store in May this year. unclamped our artwork from the Support from her parents and deco, table mats, coasters, mirror
table to glue the backs of the cloth. She said: “I thought ‘Shouldn’t partner gave her the courage to take a covers, pillow covers, or cushion
Located in Eco Ardence, Tuft This ensured that the yarns don’t this cool activity be shared with leap of faith, and thus, Tuft Space was covers. For Jean, she wants to make
Space is a place where customers can come off, and then they were others who are going through tough born. sure that your hours spent in making
attend a tufting workshop to create clamped back onto the table to days like me?’ It worked miraculously craft is turned into a functional
their own decorative rug in the design bedried with heat guns. Jean taught for me and it could be a great way to Being the first tufting store in Shah product for your home.
of their choice. us to constantly move the heat guns Alam and one of the pioneers of Find out more info on with their
so that they dried evenly and faster. tufting workshops in Malaysia, they Facebook and Instagram
As we entered the place, we were believe that everyone is innately @tuftspace.my, or their website
greeted by a wide shelf displaying After the glue was completely creative and it’s their hope that tuftspace.my for more info. They are
yarns of all colours, from neutrals to dried, our rugs were trimmed. Jean tufting might awaken that spirit in also having a Christmas limited-time
brights, and workshop tables with and her assistant helped us with the everyone, from the most confident promo where more is merrier, as
monk’s cloth stretched out on final stages so that our artwork came artist, to the person who never friends can join for free.
wooden frames clamped vertically on out as neat as possible. thought they could make anything.
the table. Since it was our first time
tufting and we were from theSun, We then had to cut the cloth into
Jean had the bright idea of giving us a the shape of our rugs, leaving a one-
beginner-friendly sun to tuft, which inch hem allowance to be folded in
was pre-traced on the cloth. and glued. Lastly, a backing was cut
into the shape of the rug and glued
The first lesson was learning how onto the back to hide the cloth as a
to handle the tufting gun and looping final touch.
the yarns in the gun. On a piece of
practice cloth, Jean showed us how to The whole process was really fun
tuft straight lines and curves to and relaxing for everyone, and is
practice on before we did it on our recommended for anyone who wants
cloth. to take a day off to wind down. By

It took us a couple of tries, and Yarns of a multitude of colours. – TUFT SPACE
then we were sent to pick out our yarn
colours. We were given creative
freedom, though Jean did help out
with our colour palettes when we
asked for her professional opinion.

When tufting, the whole process
takes place from the back of the cloth,
so tufters need to note that the design
will come out in its mirrored form.

Besides that, we also had to make
sure that we held the tufting gun tight
against the cloth as the pressure was
key to getting a consistent and
smooth result. Otherwise, the yarn
wouldn’t hold against the cloth and
would fall off, or you’d accidentally
cut the cloth, giving you a bald rug.

The monk’s cloth was a very
forgiving foundation fabric and
whenever we made mistakes, we
could just pull the loops out from the
fabric.

The whole process of tufting a rug

► Contributing Editor: KESHY DHILLON / keshy@piston.my
► Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 / +6012-580 3470
► To advertise email: advertise@thesundaily.com

ON FRIDAY

DECEMBER 16, 2022

Start of a new dynasty Body styling by BYD
Global Design Centre.
BYD ATTO 3 joins growing EV choices available in Malaysia

█ CHIPS YAP The pictures may make it hard to increasing energy density. Large air vents are
WITH the surge in introduction of figure out how big the ATTO 3 is but Range is obviously high on the list a unique feature.
battery electric vehicles (BEVs) as its length is comparable to the
the government provides tax Perodua Aruz. of questions for EV buyers and for New styling ideas
exemption for a few years, we’ve the ATTO 3, the claimed range is in the ATTO 3.
been seeing a number of brands However, the BYD SUV is much 410km with a 49.92kWh battery pack
from China coming into the wider at 1875mm whereas the Aruz and 480km with a 60.48kWh battery if used, the charging from 0 to 100%
Malaysian market. is 1695 mm. If making a comparison pack. is said to be up to 28 hours.
among SUVs, Proton’s X50 would be
The latest is BYD Auto with the a close, though just slightly smaller, With its electrical system having If you are in a hurry, it’s useful to
ATTO 3 launched recently by Sime rival. 400V architecture, the ATTO 3 can be note that each hour of charging can
Darby Motors (SDM), the local charged with AC as well as DC provide 10km of range (35km if you
distributor. Apart from the e-Platform 3.0, the supply. DC supply will enable use a dedicated wall charger) for the
ATTO 3 also used BYD’s own Blade shorter charging times, with a EV.
With products from BYD Auto, Battery technology. It is the only completely empty battery pack
now among the top 5 BEV battery that has been able to pass the reaching 80% capacity in a claimed The charging port can also be
companies in the world, SDM has nail penetration test, a very 45 minutes. used to connect a V2L cable which
another brand of electrified products demanding method of testing allows the power from the battery
to offer. thermal runaway. The AC charger (Type 2) that is pack to be used to power external
on-board can accept household and devices.
From starting with just the This is a condition when the
electrified models of BMW and temperature of the battery pack Moving inside, it’s clear that the catches on.
MINI, it now has BEVs from Porsche, becomes dangerously high due to an designers have tried to depart from The instrument panel, for
Hyundai and Volvo which are sold uncontrollable chemical reaction. convention and it remains to be
by its various units. see if the futuristic presentation example, has been shrunk to the size
Testing of Blade batteries in other of a small tablet (127mm)– quite a
The ATTO 3, one of BYD’s many extreme conditions, such as being change from the larger display
models, is known as the Yuan, crushed, bent, being heated in a panels drivers would be used to.
named after a dynasty in the China’s furnace to 300°C and overcharged by
history. The first generation was 260%, has also shown that there The small size of the instrument
launched in 2015 and the second were no fires or explosions resulting. panel (fully digital, of course) makes
generation, which is the model we the centre display panel look huge.
are getting, came out last year. Besides extended single-charge This large display is in a portrait
range capability, the space utilisation position by default but at a press of a
Like other carmakers, BYD has a of the Blade Battery pack is over 50% button, it can rotate into a vertical
modular platform, with the common greater, compared to other lithium tablet orientation – that’s pretty
architecture and technical elements iron phosphate block batteries. clever!
enabling economies of scale to keep
costs down. Each “Blade” cell is 960mm long, With the generous body width,
90mm high and only 13.5mm thick, the cabin feels spacious. The airiness
BYD calls it the e-Platform 3.0. so more cells can be installed, of the interior is enhanced by the
Unveiled last year, it is regarded as The e-Platform large panoramic sunroof.
“the cradle for the next generation of 3.0 is designed
EVs”. only for EVs. For convenience, there are
features such as wireless charging, a
The ATTO 3 is the first to use the portable card key and air cleanliness
platform, on which is mounted a is maintained with a CN95/PM2.5
modern body form inspired by the filter in the ventilation system.
Attosecond, the smallest time scale
unit in physics. The ATTO 3 comes with a
comprehensive list of safety systems
As BEVs do not need the and features that include automatic
traditional cooling through the front emergency braking, adaptive cruise
end, the “grille” area is closed off for control (down to 0 kph), rear
better aerodynamics. collision warning, rear cross traffic
alert and adaptive front lighting.
Slim LED headlights with a
distinct visual signature formed by For easier parking, the driver can
the DRLs flank the grille. At the rear, refer to a 360° monitor with front and
the presentation follows current rear sensors to provide alerts of
trends with a full-width light strip. obstacles.

14 McLaren Artura
and Darkstar
DECEMBER 16, 2022 concept.

Using Artificial Intelligence to design wheels

EACH YEAR, alloy wheels with new designs are Aviation tech for McLaren
introduced on new car models or as updates for MCLAREN AUTOMOTIVE will be collaborating collaboration, both companies showcased
existing models. Audi designer with Lockheed Martin’s “Skunk Works” to assess some of their latest projects at Skunk Works
working on new a futuristic design methodology. headquarters in the Californian desert.
The designs are varied, some purely wheel design.
aesthetic while others have functional features Skunk Works is the nickname of the A McLaren Artura hybrid hypercar was
to improve cooling of the brakes or Interacting with the software lets designers aerospace company’s advanced development parked next to the Darkstar, a concept
aerodynamic efficiency, especially for electric discover motifs from completely new projects division, which goes back to 1943, hypersonic aircraft which Skunk Works
vehicles. perspectives, giving them suggestions that they where aircraft like the twin-tail P-38 Lightning designers had helped create for the ‘Top Gun:
can further evolve and work into their creations. of World War II as well as the first Stealth Maverick’ movie.
For original equipment wheels – those Fighter were developed in secrecy.
installed at the factory by the carmakers – the In concrete terms, FelGAN works either by How much of the Darkstar is based on
rapidly proposing a large number of photo- McLaren’s collaboration project will focus whatever secret project is going on is
designs are usually done in-house (although realistic designs itself or recombining existing on deploying a new “Skunk Works” design unknown but the design looked so convincing
there may be times when specialised wheels designs in a targeted way. system, developed for the world of aviation, that the Chinese repositioned their satellite to
are provided by suppliers). into the realms of high-performance, cutting- photograph it when it was being used for
In this way, the system acts as a kind of edge automotive supercar design. filming during the movie.
This is just another part of the work at the spontaneous idea hub for Audi’s wheel design
design department and often, the designers are team, allowing them to exchange new versions The pioneering software sets the The Artura is also an advanced vehicle, the
on the lookout for new ideas and inspiration. and variations. The tool lets designers easily parameters for high-speed systems more first-ever series-production High-Performance
experiment with shape, colour, surface accurately and swiftly than traditional design Hybrid (HPH) supercar by McLaren.
But where to find untapped sources of structure, and other parameters in real time. methods. McLaren scientists and engineers will
inspiration when it comes to designing wheels? work alongside counterparts at Skunk Works It is the brand’s first model built on the all-
to test and explore how this cutting-edge new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture
This is where Audi’s design department is technology could be employed commercially (MCLA) which is uniquely optimised for HPH
leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), a goal the in the automotive design world. powertrains, and features an all-new twin-
German carmaker has set itself on its way to turbo 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine with an e-
becoming a data-driven company. To mark the start of the technology motor.

With FelGAN, the company now employs
software that uses AI to open up new sources of
inspiration for designers at the Audi Design
Studio in Ingolstadt, Germany.

An in-house development by Audi’s IT
department and Audi Design, the AI-based
software FelGAN enables “thinking out the box”.

The project is now enabling creative people
to draw from a practically unlimited pool of
ideas.

Feather-weight beast Nissan To use Gen3
racing cars for Formula E
Donkervoort unveils
world’s lightest
road-legal supercar

Sakura livery on racing car shows Japanese DNA of team.

Setting a course for future IT WAS not surprising that Nissan has been with the ROKIT Venturi
Donkervoort designs. was the first Japanese carmaker to Racing and Jaguar TCS teams.
enter Formula E, the all-electric
FOLLOWING last year’s The potent engine For road and track use. single-seater championship series. With the new regulations for
generational change in the was one of the key Recaro seats Season 9 in 2023, the Gen3 models
Dutch family-owned advantages in the and the first 6-point harnesses After all, the carmaker could be are the fastest, lightest, most
Donkervoort Automobielen, weight-saving approved both for racing and road use. considered the pioneer in mass powerful and efficient electric
the company has now unveiled its first campaign, with The Twin Targa uses two carbonfibre producing electric vehicles (EVs) racing cars ever built. With a
supercar – the F22, which can lay claim Donkervoort avoiding roof plates on either side of a with its LEAF. disruptive design inspired by the
to being the lightest road-legal hybrid and electric removable central Ex-Core carbonfibre aerodynamic form of a fighter jet,
supercar in the world at just 750kg. powertrains and the bar. However, when it first they will be capable of over
hundreds of kilograms participated in 2018, the fifth 322kph.
It maintains the brand’s historic they would have Each roof plate contains its own season of the series, it did so with
open-wheel layout while breaking new added. small spoiler for high-speed stability the e.dams team. Following its The powerful electric motors
ground in every area, from and noise reduction. Each can be entry that year, the team was a will have around 95% power
construction to design. While the D8 removed and stored in a matching bag regular each season and in March efficiency, generating up to 350kW
GTO-JD70 was the first to fit the luggage compartment. 2021, Nissan confirmed further (equivalent to 470ps), compared to
The F22, which marks the end of supercar to cross the 2g cornering commitment to Formula E until the approximately 40% for an internal
the D8 GTO era, is the first new model threshold, the sophistication of the all- The F22 also opens the door to the end of Season 12 (2025/26). combustion engine.
since Denis Donkervoort took over as new chassis takes extreme grip even world of hypercar customisation. It can
the company’s driving force after the further to 2.15g. be customised and personalised by its Earlier this year, Nissan decided Nissan has much experience in
retirement of his father, Joop owners long before a single piece of it was ready to take on a direct EV powertrains and also has a long
Donkervoort, who started the The chassis is a hybrid of tubular carbonfibre or leather has even been involvement in the team and history in motorsport, so it will
company in 1978. steel and Donkervoort’s carbonfibre measured. acquired it in April. It finished off have a very competitive racing car.
expertise, including the liberal use of the season with the Gen2 racing It will also supply its EV powertrain
The original plan was to offer 50 the breakthrough Ex-Core carbon There are core choices to make for car as the all-new Gen3 version to the McLaren team.
units of the F22 for sale but when the sandwich system. The result is a body- buyers, including whether they prefer a was being developed for 2023.
design sketches were released, the in-white with a 100%t boost in steering system with no servo Nhpaiosswsaaennrteer-wa4inOelRfeoCcrEtri0c4 “Electrification is at the centre
entire production run was taken right torsional and bending rigidity over the assistance or a lightweight, 2023. of Nissan’s long-term vision,
away. This led the company to increase outgoing D8 GTO. electronically powered, adjustable with Formula E playing an
total production to 75 units, with each power-assistance system. The new season will expanding role in it,” said
unit priced from starts from €245,000 The F22 employs a new active see the team adopting its new Ashwani Gupta, Nissan’s Chief
(RM1.2m). shock absorber system, something that Beyond that, even the smallest name – the Nissan Formula E Team Operating Officer.
the company has wanted to use for detail of the F22 can be customised, – with its Gen3 car designated the
The F22 development team had an many years. The new dampers also from one-off paintwork and interior Nissan e-4ORCE 04. The team also “Season 9 marks a new
extreme obsession with weight include an adjustable hydraulic ride- design to embossing the owner’s has new drivers – Frenchman era for Nissan’s participation
reduction – even by Donkervoort height system, allowing quick changes initials or business logo into the seat Norman Nato and Franco- in the championship. It will
standards – as the car grew physically when needed. trims. Argentine Sacha Fenestraz – be our fifth competing in
larger to accommodate owner requests bringing a combination of Formula E but our first as
and legislation from three continents. The longer, sleeker, more experience and youth. Since 2018, one team.
aggressive-looking F22 pays tribute to Nato, a Formula E winner before,
The front mid-engined 5-cylinder Donkervoort’s history while setting a “I’m really excited for the
turbocharged 2.5-litre engine is course for future designs. Some of the season to get underway,
sourced from Audi Sport, but tuned by highlights of the design include a new and I am confident that we
Donkervoort engineers for even more 3-piece Twin Targa carbonfibre have all we need to make
power, torque and low-end drivability. removable roof, the retention of an the start of the Gen3 era a
open-wheel layout and a more very successful one for us at
Peak output is bumped to 500bhp, spacious, comfortable interior. Nissan.”
with maximum torque at 640Nm. Top Nato and Fenestraz will have
speed is claimed to be 290kph, and the The completely new interior uses their first outings in the new Gen3
0 to 100 kph sprint can be done in 2.5 optional custom-designed, lightweight racing cars during the official pre-
seconds. season test at Circuit Ricardo
Tormo in Valencia, Spain, this
week.
Season 9 will start off in Mexico
City on Jan 14, followed by another
16 races, with India, South Africa
and Brazil being new venues.

S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. FRIDAY
DECEMBER 16, 2022
197201001092 (12738-U)
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% RM m RM m RM m

49.5 Institutions 1011.1 876.3 134.8

26.5 Retail 526.9 482.7 44.2

24.0 Foreign 369.0 548.0 -179.0 16.04 4.82 304.86 7.88 104.51 5.23 38.28 46.50

100.0 1907.0 1907.0 0 KLCI STI HANG SENG SCI NIKKEI TSEC KOSPI S&P/ASX200
1,467.13 3,273.75 19,368.59 3,168.65 28,051.70 14,734.13 2,360.97 7,204.80
Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com
Source: Bursa Malaysia

KL MARKET SUMMARY Investors show growingDecember 15,2022
December 15, 2022

INDICES CHANGE confidence in Malaysia
FBMEMAS 10,550.90 -101.00
FBMKLCI 1,467.13 -16.04
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 581.05 -2.74
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 181.02 -0.36
CONSTRUCTION 151.13 -0.73
FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,535.50 -134.00
ENERGY 794.60 -0.76
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 579.05 -14.30 o Country chalks up RM193.7 billion approved investments in services,
HEALTH CARE 1,617.59 -31.10 manufacturing andprimary sectors from January to September this year
TRANSPORTATION 849.07 +12.52
PROPERTY 651.78 -4.52
PLANTATION 6,704.41 -36.40
FBMSHA 10,669.78 -113.00 KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains a top
FBMACE 5,471.59 -39.40 investment destination among global
TECHNOLOGY 65.33 -1.36 investors and a hotspot for business
expansion with investors continuing to show
TURNOVER VALUE confidence to invest in the country with the
2.535 BIL RM1.906 BIL new leadership focused on strengthening the
country’s economic growth and retaining its
5 MOST ACTIVES reputation as a stable investment destination. Singapore RM8.7 billion (US$1.9 billion). projects. This is a significant increase
December 15, 2022 During this period, the services sector compared with the RM70.4 billion (US$16.8
Malaysia attracted RM193.7 billion billion) investments approved for the
STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) (US$41.7 billion) worth of approved assumed a significant role towards driving services sector in the same period last year.
ASB 190,274,200 19.0 +1.5 investments in the services, manufacturing the country’s economic recovery,
PTRB 50,509,600 57.5 +6.5 and primary sectors involving 2,786 projects accounting for 58.5% of total approved Based on the total approved investments
NYLEX 49,601,400 28.0 +6.5 from January to September 2022 and is investments with RM113.3 billion (US$24.4 for January to September 2022, foreign
HSI-CJ5 47,019,700 15.5 -4.5 expected to create 98,414 job opportunities billion). The sector’s stellar performance investments made up the most significant
TOPGLOV 453,90,500 73.5 -5.0 in the country. This is a 2.5 % increase as exceeded expectations for January to portion, recording RM69 billion (US$14.9
compared with the RM188.9 billion September 2022, an increase of 60.9% from billion) or 60.9% of the total approved
5 TOP GAINERS (US$45.1 billion) investments approved in the same period in 2021. investments for the services sector, while the
December 15, 2022 the same period last year. remaining 39.1% or RM44.3 billion (US$9.5
The manufacturing sector followed with billion) were from domestic sources.
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM International Trade and Industry Minister RM64.9 billion (US$14 billion) or 33.5% and
HEXTECH 111,500 14.60 +0.88 Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul the primary sector with RM15.5 billion Malaysia continued to attract high-
AJI 69,000 12.84 +0.84 Tengku Abdul Aziz said, “Malaysia’s success (US$3.3 billion) or 8%. quality investments in the manufacturing
KEINHIN 2,208,300 1.67 +0.38 in attracting almost RM194 billion of sector from January to September 2022. The
SP500-H13 1.39 +0.20 approved investments in the first nine months Malaysian Investment Development sector accounted for RM64.9 billion (US$14
RVIEW 4,000 3.79 +0.19 of the year is a testament of its established Authority (Mida) CEO Datuk Wira Arham billion) or 33.5% of the total approved
6,500 standing as a gateway to Asean and an Abdul Rahman said, “Malaysia enjoys a investments in various economic sectors,
investment destination of choice in Asia.” strong reputation internationally and compared with RM103.9 billion (US$24.8
5 TOP LOSERS investors have confidence in us. The nation billion) for the same period in 2021.
December 15, 2022 He said the Ministry of International Trade has a solid foundation to provide
and Industry (Miti) and its agencies will opportunities for investors. Of the total approved investments in
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM ensure that new investment opportunities January to September 2022 for the
HEIM 74,500 25.20 -0.50 will build the appropriate capacity and talent “The government is working aggressively manufacturing sector, FDI amounted to
TM 18,442,700 5.10 -0.30 base in targeted industries to develop the to attract more high-quality, high-impact, RM50.2 billion (US$10.8 billion) or 7.3%,
BURSA-C70 720,000 0.065 -0.285 nation’s economy in a sustainable manner. capital-intensive projects in the while domestic investments contributed to
KOTRA 84,100 6.41 -0.22 manufacturing and services sectors. The the remaining RM14.7 billion or 22.7%.
YTL-C52 166,000 0.03 -0.22 Foreign direct investment (FDI) government focuses on digital economy,
remained the major contributor, at 67.5% or energy and high-value manufacturing Meanwhile, the primary sector recorded
EXCHANGE RATES DECEMBER 15, 2022 RM130.7 billion (US$28.1 billion), while activities such as transport technology which RM15.5 billion (US$3.3 billion) approved
domestic direct investment contributed includes electric vehicle and its ecosystem investments (8%) from January to
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy 32.5% to RM63 billion (US$13.6 billion). This that will have a significant economic potential September 2022, compared with RM14.7
is a 15% increase compared with the FDI and sustainable long-term growth,” he added. billion (US$3.5 billion) for the same period
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD approved in the same period in 2021. in 2021. FDI was valued at RM11.5 billion
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.4730 4.3350 4.3250 For the period, the services sector (US$2.5 billion) or 74.2%, while domestic
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.0810 2.9550 2.9390 Of the total investments approved, China accounted for the largest share of the total sources contributed the remaining RM4
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3130 3.2120 3.2040 dominated with RM49.2 billion (US$10.6 approved investments, amounting to billion (US$0.9 billion) or 25.8%.
1 EURO 3.2920 3.2000 3.1880 billion) followed by the United States RM113.3 billion (US$24.4 billion) from 2,167
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 4.7730 4.6130 4.5930 RM16.9 billion (US$3.6 billion), the
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 2.8940 2.7850 2.7690 Netherlands RM16.5 billion (US$3.6 billion),
1 STERLING POUND 3.3130 3.2120 3.2040 Germany RM9.2 billion (US$2 billion) and
1 SWISS FRANC 5.5530 5.3700 5.3500
100 UAE DIRHAM 4.8160 4.7010 4.6860 Hotel market recovery seen continuing in 2023
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 123.0200 116.5200 116.3200
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 4.4040 4.0980 3.8980 PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s hotel market successful at improving its RevPar which tourism provides huge growth potential for
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 64.3000 61.8000 recovery is expected to continue next year, was down 28%. the Malaysian hotel market with
100 INDIAN RUPEE 58.0500 55.0900 N/A driven by strong demand outlook, according international Muslim travelers growing by
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 5.5100 5.1600 54.8900 to independent real estate consultancy firm “Since the beginning of 2022, 7.5% compound annual growth rate
100 JAPANESE YEN 0.0296 0.0268 4.9600 Knight Frank. international passenger traffic volume to between 2013 - 2019. Malaysia is the top-
100 NEWTAIWAN DOLLAR 3.3080 3.2020 KLIA has been rebounding with average ranked destination in the Mastercard-
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 15.7000 0.0218 On the supply side, the firm said that Kuala month-on-month growth of 27%, boosted Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index
100 PHILIPPINE PESO 2.0200 N/A 3.1920 Lumpur’s (KL) existing hotel stock of 47,500 is by the complete removal of border 2022. The firm opined that KL, Penang and
100 QATAR RIYAL 8.1400 1.8900 forecast to grow by 9% over the next three restrictions, improving flight connectivity, Langkawi are particularly well-positioned to
100 SAUDI RIYAL 122.9700 7.6600 N/A years and about 60% of this new supply will be and easing of regional travel restrictions. capture the halal tourism market.
100THAI BAHT 120.0400 116.7300 1.6900 in the luxury and upper upscale segments
13.4800 113.9500 7.4600 which are currently underrepresented. “In September 2022, KLIA received 1.64 On Tuesday, four restaurants in KL and
11.9400 116.5300 million international travelers, or about 53% Penang were awarded with the country’s first
113.7500 “These new luxury offerings will make KL of September 2019 of 3.51 million. When ever Michelin stars during the unveiling of
11.5400 a more attractive holiday destination, China does eventually lift its travel the inaugural Michelin Guide KL and Penang
boosting occupancy and growth in hotel restrictions, this will provide an added boost. 2023 at a ceremony at Berjaya Times Square
Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama revenues. We are forecasting that Kuala Hotel, KL. Concurrently, 32 (Penang, 17 and
Lumpur hotel occupancy will reach about Knight Frank added that the halal KL, 15) received the Bib Gourmand rating,
75% by late 2023, with revenue per available which recognises “friendly establishments
room (RevPar) recovering in 2024,” it said in that serve good food at moderate prices”.
a statement yesterday.
In 2019, Malaysia received 26.1 million
The firm said that KL hotel occupancy international visitors and RM86 billion in
has risen since the start of this year, reaching receipts. That year, the country’s three biggest
60% in August. The city has been pushing up markets were Singapore (10.2 million),
the average daily rate (ADR) which was only Indonesia (3.6 million) and China (3.1 million).
6% down from August 2019, although less

16 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022 FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN
SUNBIZ ME
/thesuntelegram

Residential property market a bright spot

o Segment could continue to be active in 2023 2023 yesterday. in the new year. Negara Malaysia Quarterly Bulletin.
as government is expected to introduce policies According to PropertyGuru “While we’ve seen gradual “However, the global economic
to make housing more affordable: PropertyGuru
Malaysia’s Property Market Outlook movement in recovery with overall outlook remained weak due to
KUALA LUMPUR: Despite the government is try to balance Report 2023, sellers are unlikely to transaction prices in the first half of ongoing military conflicts in Ukraine,
projection of a weaker property spending and also government’s lower their asking prices unless 2022 recording a higher trend aggressive tightening of the United
market next year, the Malaysian revenue, and where it should put the unemployment rates start to compared to the previous year, we States monetary policies, and an
residential market may continue to money in. increase, and if the labour market are also seeing cautious behaviour as overestimated recovery of the
be active due to expected remains tight, sellers are more likely Malaysians await possible revisions economy in China,” it said.
government policies to make housing “We have seen countries that try to to wait out for higher offers. of Budget 2023,” he said.
more affordable. have more expansionary policies or With the increase in interest rate
targeting, by giving out more money Malaysia for PropertyGuru.com.my According to the report, after hikes and the uncertain outlook amid
PropertyGuru Group’s head of real to make housing more affordable, and iProperty.com.my country almost two years of the global the economic recovery,
estate intelligence Nai Jia Lee said the (but it) may backfire because they manager Sheldon Fernandez said pandemic that wrecked economic PropertyGuru Malaysia’s Sale
government is likely to offer end up having to get more debts and while the property market saw a steady and social activities, 2023 is the year Demand Index showed a decline of
something similar to the Home that raised interest rate even further. improvement in 2022 with reopened of economic recovery, albeit with a 6.4% quarter-on-quarter compared
Ownership Campaign (HOC), given The market may react not as well as international borders and higher weak outlook. to the previous year, the report said.
the challenging global economic people have perceived,” he said at productivity levels, findings from the
prospects. PropertyGuru virtual disicussion on report foresees a challenging year “As the world reopens “It was observed that the sale
the Property Market Outlook Report ahead due to vast uncertainties in international borders leading to the demand was 42.4% lower as buyers
“One of the key challenges for the public policies, federal incentives and labour market resurgence, and a more recalibrated their decisions. However,
economic prospects. robust domestic demand; positive PropertyGuru Malaysia’s Property
economic growth is expected, with Asking Price Index exhibited an
“Due to these uncertainties, it is Malaysia’s service sector accelerated increase of 1.3% quarter-on-quarter
difficult to project an accurate to 12% year-on-year, according to as sellers had the financial capability
outlook on how the market will fare second quarter 2022 (Q2’22) Bank to hold out. – Bernama

From left: Chin, Tan, Kairous CEO Joseph Lee and Kairous Capital partner See Toh Kean Yaw announcing their merger agreement. Lynas Malaysia can be
catalyst for green
Wellous to list on Nasdaq after merging with SPAC energy investments: Exec

KUALA LUMPUR: Home-grown Wellous US$10.10 per share. targeting future expansion opportunities in BRIEFSKUALA LUMPUR: Lynas Malaysia can be a
Group Ltd has entered into a definitive Additional earnout shares may be issuable markets which go beyond Southeast Asia. catalyst for investment in the nation’s green
merger agreement with a publicly traded energy and critical mineral sector as Malaysia is
special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), to Wellous stockholders after closing, upon Meanwhile, Wellous co-founder Henry home to the only significant non-China
Kairous Acquisition Corp Ltd, which will achievement of certain trading price-based Chin said the company saw a vast addressable supplier of rare earth elements said Lynas Rare
result in Wellous becoming a publicly listed and/or profitability targets. market totalling approximately US$700 billion Earths COO Pol Le Roux
company on Nasdaq upon merger annually by 2027 as provided in a study by
completion. Cash proceeds raised would consist of Grand View Research, due to increased He said other Asean countries have been
Kairous’ approximately US$21 million in trust demand for food and supplements that able to attract billions of foreign direct
Wellous is a health food and nutrition (assuming no redemptions by Kairous’ provide health benefits tailored to specific investments in downstream manufacturing of
company that develops, manufactures, existing public shareholders) which is individuals needs. high performance magnets and other related
markets and distributes trusted and beneficial anticipated to support Wellous’s growth technologies which need rare earth elements
health and wellness products. capital needs and to be used for general After the closing, Wellous shareholders are and create thousands of new jobs.
working capital purposes. expected to retain a majority of the
As provided in the merger agreement, the outstanding shares of the combined company “As an example, the development of a
merger consideration is US$270 million Wellous founder Wee Kuan Tan said and Wellous would designate a majority of Malaysian super magnet factory to serve the
(RM1.19 billion), payable by newly issued Wellous strived to bring its high-quality, proposed directors for the combined automotive industry could produce 5,000
securities of the combined company valued at innovative and tailored health products company’s board. - Bernama tonnes of NdFeb (Neodymium Iron Boron)
across the world, and the company is magnets and create up to 5,000 jobs and
investment of RM1 billion,” he said in a
Astro to continuously invest in transformation for sustainable growth statement in conjunction with the “Mastering
the Knowledge of Non-Radioactive Rare Earth
PETALING JAYA: Astro Malaysia Holdings traction in the market and is being enhanced volatility to remain in the shorter term, both in Elements for Future Sustainability” conference
Bhd will continuously invest in its with a unified audience measurement on terms of foreign currency volatility and that was held here yesterday.
transformation for long-term and sustainable Linear, On Demand and OTT (over-the-top interest rates, and will be managing these with
growth, focusing on content, broadband, streaming services). We expect Addressable hedge instruments over time. Le Roux said Malaysia has the opportunity to
streaming, customer experience, data, Advertising to have increased industry adoption be a world leader in an industry that supports
addressable advertising and technology to over time and to continue growing into the “Our revenue grew q-o-q to RM926 million, technologies used every day as well as future facing
better serve customers, according to its group future,” said Tan in a statement yesterday. driven by strong adex (advertising industries such as electric vehicles. – Bernama
CEO, Henry Tan. expenditure) performance in Q3’23 that rose
The group maintains a cautious outlook 27% q-o-q to RM110 million. We recorded RHB IB EXPECTS ADJUSTMENT
“Alongside progressive user interface and and will monitor business conditions, whilst normalised profit after tax and minority IN GOVT OPEX, TARGETED
experience enhancements, we are committed prudently managing costs. It expects market interests (Patami) of RM73 million in Q3’23; SUBSIDIES IN REVISED BUDGET
to making kids’ viewing safer. An increasing Patami was impacted by higher unrealised
number of global streaming apps have been forex loss due to transponder finance lease KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Investment Bank Bhd
integrated onto our flagship Ultra Box and liabilities as the US dollar appreciated. The (RHB IB) expects some rationalisation in
included in our new Astro TV packages, for group remained cash generative and proactive government operating expenditure (opex),
the best big screen viewing experience. in its capital management,” said Tan. while a more targeted approach towards
subsidies may be implemented in the
“We expect to continue aggregating the best He added that given the macro economic revised Budget 2023. “In view of the still-
streaming apps and adding on lifestyle apps conditions and foreign currency volatility, the elevated living costs and inflationary
which are relevant for Malaysians in the near group has declared a third interim dividend of pressures, the pace of the adjustment is
future. Addressable Advertising is gaining 0.75 sen per share. likely to be gradual,“ it said in a note entitled
“Global Economics and Market Strategy”
yesterday. The investment bank also said the
potential revision of the development
expenditure allocation might be possible,
especially for new and existing projects that
have yet to start the tender process. – Bernama

KLIA EKSPRES AND TRANSIT
SERVICES TO RESUME FROM JAN 3

PETALING JAYA: Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd
(ERL) will resume KLIA Ekspres and KLIA
Transit services from Jan 3, 2023 to cater to
increasing ridership. ERL has been running
combined train services following the drop
in ridership due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
With the resumption of services, the KLIA
Ekspres will run every 20 minutes during
morning and evening peak hour, while the
KLIA Transit frequency will be revised to run
every 15 minutes during weekday peak
hours, with the peak hours to be extended
to 8pm (currently 7pm). At its peak, there will
be seven train services running every hour.
Both services will run at 30-minute intervals
off-peak.

FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN

@thesundaily ME 17theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022

Petronas’ Gentari * SUNBIZ

Agricommodities majorandJapan’sIHI
to explore green contributor to Malaysia’s GDP
ammonia venture
PUTRAJAYA: The agricommodity o Sector accounts for RM61.3b up to third “The use of technology can
PETALING JAYA: Petroliam Nasional sector has contributed RM61.3 quarter of this year, records total exports of also produce smart smallholder
Bhd (Petronas) through its wholly billion to the country’s gross RM160.6 billion farmers who are able to adopt
owned subsidiary, Gentari Hydrogen domestic product (GDP) up until modern farming methods and
Sdn Bhd, inked a memorandum of the third quarter of this year, said ministries involved such as the plantation sector. innovate, apart from increasing
understanding (MoU) with Japan-based Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Ministry of Human Resources or As such, he said, short-term the competitiveness of bumiputra
IHI Corp, to evaluate the feasibility of Seri Fadillah Yusof. the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to entrepreneurs in downstream
leveraging the abundant solar resources come up with a strategy that and long-term courses to industries,” he said.
of Malaysia to produce and sell green Fadillah, who is also the takes into account our increase awareness and skills in
ammonia derived from renewables. Minister of Plantations and production, the export market, the use of machinery should be Fadillah said the Technical
Commodity, said the sector and downstream products,” he intensified to ensure the use of Education and Vocational Training
Under the MoU, both companies will recorded total exports of told reporters after the Institute machinery in the plantation (TVET) ecosystem also needs to be
consider a business model for ammonia RM160.6 billion and provided job of Malaysian Plantation and reaches an optimum level as well strengthened through collaboration
production in Johor, a suitable site for opportunities for almost one Commodities (Impac) convo- as to improve productivity and with stakeholders to enable the
solar power generation, where green million Malaysians. cation yesterday. reduce dependence on foreign development of competitive
ammonia will be produced, used locally labour. national agricultural commodities
for power generation and marine fuel The deputy prime minister Fadillah said the government in line with the growing gig
supply as well as exported to the said he will hold a meeting with is aware that continued Fadillah also said that economy.
Japanese and Asian markets. agricommodity industry players dependence on foreign labour mastering technologies based on
next week to look at several could affect the plantation the Industrial Revolution 4.0 “A strong TVET ecosystem in
“In this study, IHI will fulfil the role of matters and the entire supply sector, especially the palm oil (4IR) will also ensure the younger the plantation and commodity
conducting technical studies and chain, including exports and industry, in the long run, adding generation involved in the sectors will enable the country to
ammonia demand surveys for Japan, supplies. that as of Oct 30 this year, a total plantation and commodity address persistent problems such
while Gentari handles the assessment of of 150,608 foreign workers were industries has the necessary skills as dependence on foreign labour.
renewable energy supply and various On the challenges faced by the reported working in the to keep up with current The initiative can lead to a
facilities in Malaysia, as well as various sector, he said one of them is its technological developments. flexible labour market and
market demand surveys. dependence on foreign labour, in further contribute to improving
which worker shortage will affect the living standards of the
“After conducting a feasibility study revenue and exports. people,” Fadillah added. –
which runs until the beginning of 2023, Bernama
the project aims to develop a “We will identify the whole
commercial ammonia production plant thing and then consult with the
to commence operations before 2030,”
IHI said in a statement yesterday. Local banks’ profit performance improves but
headwinds dim growth outlook: RAM Ratings
At present, the group said,
commercially available ammonia PETALING JAYA: Malaysian banks’ We have pencilled in loan and savings account balances, “While markedly lower y-o-y
derived from fossil fuels emits carbon profit performance in third-quarter expansion of 5.0%-5.5% for 2023, RAM Ratings said. (Q3’21: 55 bps), the metric was
dioxide during production. However the 2022 (Q3’22) improved from the with risks tilted to the downside.” on an uptrend compared to the
application of green ammonia in end previous corresponding quarter, The average proportion of previous two quarters (1Q 2022:
use segments such as power generation, buoyed by broader net interest Supported by three 25 basis domestic loans under relief for 18 bps; 2Q 2022: 31 bps) as banks
marine fuels and raw materials for margins (NIMs), stronger loan point (bps) hikes in the overnight the eight banks fell sharply to an set aside more provisions amid
fertilizers could keep emissions of growth and lighter loan policy rate (OPR) in nine months estimated 3.5% in October 2022 prevailing macroeconomic
carbon dioxide throughout the supply provisioning expenses, according to 2022, it said, the average net from a peak of 28% in December headwinds. Even so, we expect
chain at low levels. Furthermore, the RAM Ratings. interest margin (NIM) of eight 2021. the overall credit cost ratio to
technologies for green ammonia It said the banking industry’s selected banking groups swelled ease in 2023 – possibly resulting
production, storage and transportation loan growth accelerated to an by 18 bps y-o-y to 2.39% in 3Q “We anticipate impairments to in a net writeback for some – in
are already well-established and can annualised 6.1% (2021: 4.6%), 2022. continue to creep up in the view of the sizeable provisioning
accelerate market deployment. driven by pent-up credit demand coming months as pockets of buffers that banks have built up
amid domestic economic Margins were also on an borrowers – especially those who since the start of the pandemic.”
“Through this feasibility exploration, recovery and improving labour uptrend q-o-q and are envisaged are highly leveraged or in On the whole, RAM Ratings
IHI and Gentari aim to demonstrate market conditions. to widen further in the coming vulnerable business sectors – expects the pre-tax profit
several ammonia application models in Heightened inflationary two quarters in view of the OPR may face repayment difficulties. performance of banks next year to
Malaysia and build a fuel ammonia pressures, higher borrowing costs increase in November this year The system’s gross impaired loan show mild improvement, although
supply chain to address the future and slower global growth, and another potential hike in 1Q ratio is projected to trend up to treasury-related and investment
increase of clean fuel demand. It will however, have clouded the loan 2023. 2.2% as at end-2023 from 1.82% banking income remain uncertain.
thereby help accelerate the adoption of growth outlook, RAM Ratings said. currently, which we still consider Narrower net interest margins and
fuel ammonia and contribute to “Loan applications and That said, full-year 2023 healthy,” it said. slower loan growth will likely be
improved sustainability,” said IHI. approvals in the last couple of margins will likely be pressured offset by more moderate
months had started to moderate. and may face some contraction, In Q3’22, RAM Ratings said, impairment charges.
IHI is a heavy-industry manufacturer given gradual deposit repricing, data showed that the average
working to create value for customers in keen deposit competition and credit cost ratio of the eight banks
four main areas – resource, energy and continuous tapering of current was an annualised 37 bps.
environment; social infrastructure and
offshore facilities; industrial systems and
general-purpose machinery; and aero
engine, space and defence.

Gentari is a clean energy solutions
entity tasked to independently pursue
and deliver sustainable energy solutions.

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18 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
SPORTS *

Formula for change

IN THE MATTER OF 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices After drivers, F1 team bosses get on the merry-go-round
THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 IN THE MATTER OF
AND IN THE MATTER OF VALINO IN THE MATTER OF IN THE MATTER OF RENAULT-OWNED Alpine had a they entered in 2016.
INTERNATIONAL APPAREL SDN. BHD. THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 cheeky response when four of their There was a time when principals were
(201001017441 (901146-X)) AND Formula One rivals replaced bosses
(IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY AND AND in a managerial merry-go-round this team founders or owners – men like Frank
IN THE MATTER OF IN THE MATTER OF AQUA CERIA IN THE MATTER OF NEW NATION week. Williams, Enzo Ferrari, Colin Chapman and
WINDING-UP) CIMAT SARTEC Alpine posted a picture on Instagram of Ken Tyrrell – who made up the membership of
NOTICE OF THE FINAL MEETING ECO SDN. BHD. HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. principal Otmar Szafnauer (pix), appointed the paddock “Piranha Club”.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant MALAYSIA SDN. BERHAD (880116-M) (468454-P) on Feb. 17, holding a mobile and
to Section 459 of the Companies Act, (Registration No. (In Members’ (In Members’ looking quizzical. Their meetings were the distillation of
2016 a Final Meeting of the abovenamed “Checking your phone and paddock politics, a clash of vested
Company will be held at the office of 201601008183 (1179111-K)) Voluntary Winding Up) Voluntary Winding Up) realising you are the fifth longest interests and powerful egos, but
the liquidator, No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, (In Members’ Voluntary At a General Meeting of the Members At a General Meeting of the Members tenured team principal in F1 times have changed.
Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, Liquidation) of AQUA CERIA ECO SDN. BHD. of NEW NATION HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. after only nine months in Wolff is the only one of the
W.P. Kuala Lumpur on 16 JANUARY 2023 (880116-M) duly convened and held (468454-P) duly convened and held on charge,” read the caption. current crop who is also a team
(Monday) at 9.00 a.m. for the purpose NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING on 15th December 2022, the following 15th December 2022, the following Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, co-owner, with a third share.
of receiving the accounts and report NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, Special resolution was duly passed :- Special resolution was duly passed :- McLaren and Williams have all The others are effectively
from the liquidator showing the manner pursuant to Section 459 (2) of the “THAT the Company be liquidated by “THAT the Company be liquidated by announced post-season employees, more like football
in which the winding up has been Companies Act 2016, that the Final way of members’ voluntary winding way of members’ voluntary winding departures and/or arrivals this managers, contracted to
conducted and to hear explanations that Meeting of the Members of the up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of week in the sort of upheaval usually produce results or face the
may be given by the liquidator. above-named Company will be of the Companies Act, 2016 and the Companies Act, 2016 and that featuring drivers rather than bosses. consequences.
WAN AKILAH BINTI WAN AZALLI held at Conference Room, Wisma that Lee You of No 20, Lorong Batu Ang Boon Kee of Lot 837, Kg. Pulau Szafnauer is in fact the sixth longest in his They are the ones in the spotlight,
Liquidator Golden Eagle Realty, 11th Floor, Nilam 20/E, Bandar Bukit Tinggi 2, Banting, 42700 Banting, Selangor current job, with Aston Martin’s Mike Krack
Kuala Lumpur South Block, No. 142-A, Jalan 41200 Klang, Selangor D.E. be and is D.E. be and is hereby appointed as just ahead of him after being appointed on standing in front of the cameras and
Dated: 16 DECEMBER 2022 Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur on hereby appointed as Liquidator of the Liquidator of the Company for the Jan. 14, but a point was made. appearing in news conferences, but the real
Notes:- January 16, 2023, at 10.00 a.m. for Company for the purpose of winding purpose of winding up the affairs and Only four of the 10 principals have been in power rests elsewhere.
1. Only members whose names appear the following purposes:- up the affairs and distributing the distributing the assets of the Company position for more than a year, with Red Bull’s
in the Register of Member on 16 (1) To receive and consider assets of the Company in accordance in accordance with their respective Christian Horner leading the way. The Briton, Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll calls
DECEMBER 2022 shall be entitled to with their respective rights and rights and interest therein. now 49, was the youngest of all when he the shots at Aston Martin, Frenchman Laurent
attend and vote at this Final Meeting. the Liquidator’s Statement interest therein. Ang Kian Loong arrived in 2005. Rossi is CEO of Alpine F1 and American Zak
2. A member entitled to attend and vote of Receipts and Payments Lee Kar Poh Director Toto Wolff, whose Mercedes team posted a Brown is CEO of McLaren Racing.
at this meeting is entitled to appoint at showing the manner in which Director Dated this 16th December 2022 picture on Instagram on Tuesday captioned
least one proxy to attend and vote in the winding up of the Company Dated this 16th December 2022 “BREAKING: we’ve got nothing to announce, Fredric Vasseur, taking over from Mattia
his stead. A proxy may but need not be has been conducted and to IN THE MATTER OF so here’s a photo of the boss,” has been in Binotto at Ferrari after the Italian resigned in
a member of the Company. There shall receive any explanations IN THE MATTER THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 charge since 2013. November, reports to company chairman
be no restriction as to the qualification thereon. OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 The other long-timers are AlphaTauri’s John Elkann and chief executive Benedetto
of the proxy. A proxy appointed to (2) To resolve, pursuant to Section AND Franz Tost, appointed in 2006 when the team Vigna. The Frenchman is now on his third F1
attend and vote at the meeting shall 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act AND IN THE MATTER OF NEW NATION changed from Minardi to Toro Rosso, and team.”
have the same rights as the member to 2016, that the books, accounts IN THE MATTER OF Netflix star Guenther Steiner at Haas since
speak and vote at the meeting. and records of the Company be AQUA CERIA ECO SDN. BHD. HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. That position is a thing of the past,”
3. Where a member appoints more than destroyed after the expiration (468454-P) declared Wolff back in 2013.
one proxy, the appointment shall of three (3) months from the (880116-M) (In Members’
be invalid unless he specifies the date of filing of the Return (In Members’ “It is like any other major corporation:
proportion of his shareholdings to be by Liquidator relating to Final Voluntary Winding Up) Voluntary Winding Up) there is not that one guy on the board who is
represented by each proxy. Meeting. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the making all the decisions – it is divided by
4. The instrument appointing a proxy creditors of AQUA CERIA ECO SDN. creditors of NEW NATION HOLDINGS competency.” – Reuters
shall be in writing under the hand of KHOR YONG YONG BHD. (880116-M), which is being SDN. BHD. (468454-P), which is being
the appointer or of his attorney duly Liquidator voluntarily wound up, are required voluntarily wound up, are required BRIEFS
authorised in writing or, if the appointer on or before 16th January 2023 to on or before 16th January 2023 to LIV Golf unveils three
is a corporation, under its Common c/o MAZARS RISK MANAGEMENT send their names and addresses with send their names and addresses with new USA events
Seal or the hand of its attorney duly SDN. BHD. particulars of their debts or claims, particulars of their debts or claims,
authorised. and of any security held by them, and of any security held by them, THE Saudi-backed LIV Golf League will
5. The instrument appointing a proxy Wisma Golden Eagle Realty, and the names and addresses of their and the names and addresses of their stage 2023 tournaments in Tulsa,
must be deposited at the Liquidator’s 11th Floor, South Block, solicitors (if any) to the undersigned solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Oklahoma; Tucson, Arizona and at The
office at No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, No 142-A, Jalan Ampang, Liquidator at Lot 4.1, Level 4, Pertama Liquidator at Lot 4.1, Level 4, Pertama Greenbrier in West Virginia, LIV Golf chief
Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala 50450 Kuala Lumpur. Complex Office Tower. Jalan Tuanku Complex Office Tower. Jalan Tuanku executive officer Greg Norman
Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur not less Tel: +60 3 2161 5222 Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur., Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur., announced yesterday. The upstart series,
than forty-eight (48) hours before the and if so required by notice in writing and if so required by notice in writing which has split the elite golf world by
time set for holding the meeting or any Dated : December 16, 2022 from the aforesaid Liquidator, or from the aforesaid Liquidator, or luring away top stars from the US PGA
adjournment hereof. personally or by their solicitors personally or by their solicitors Tour and DP World Tour, completed its
322 Notices required to write in and prove their required to write in and prove their inaugural season of 54-hole events in
AKTA INSOLVENSI 1967 said debts or claims at such time and said debts or claims at such time and October. LIV Golf’s US stops next year will
DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI place as shall be specified in such place as shall be specified in such include The Gallery Golf Club at Tucson
MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG notice, or in default thereof, they will notice, or in default thereof, they will on March 17-19, Cedar Ridge Country
DALAM PERKARA KEBANKRAPAN be excluded from the benefit of any be excluded from the benefit of any Club in Tulsa on May 12-14 and The
NO. PA-29NCC-395-09/2022 distribution made before such debts distribution made before such debts Greenbrier, a former US PGA venue, on
and claims are proved. and claims are proved. Aug 4-6. “LIV Golf’s expansion to new US
Per: VIGNESHWERI A/P KRISHNA Lee You Ang Boon Kee markets adds to the growing excitement
(No. K/P: 730117-07-5204/ Liquidator Liquidator for the league launch in 2023,” Norman
A2429722) Dated this 16th December 2022 Dated this 16th December 2022 said. “These championship courses will
… Penghutang Penghakiman contribute to the transformative season
IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT 322 Notices 322 Notices ahead for players, fans and the game of
Ex-parte: HONG LEONG BANK KUALA LUMPUR golf.” Two weeks ago, LIV Golf announced
BERHAD DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI DALAM MAHKAMAH 2023 events would be played in Mexico
[NO. SYARIKAT: 193401000023 IN THE STATE OF WILAYAH KUALA LUMPUR (BAHAGIAN DAGANG) MAJISTRET DI KUALA KUBU BHARU at Mayakoba’s El Camaleon in February, at
(97141-X)] PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL Sentosa in Singapore in April and at Real
(COMMERCIAL DIVISION) PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO. Club Valderrama in Spain in June.
...Pemiutang Penghakiman COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) NO: WA-28NCC-944-11/2022 EHSAN, MALAYSIA
NOTIS WA-28NCC-940-11/2022 GUAMAN SIVIL NO: Flintoff‘lucky to be alive’
In the matter of Section 465(1)(c) and (h) Dalam perkara mengenai Akta Syarikat BF-A72NCvC-212-10/2022
(Dalam Perkara mengenai Notis of the Companies Act 2016 2016 seksyen 464(1), 465 (e), (h) dan ENGLAND cricket legend Andrew Flintoff
Kebankrapan dikeluarkan pada 22- Seksyen 466(1)(a) Antara is “lucky to be alive” after he was injured
09-2022) And in an accident while filming the popular
Kepada: In the matter of MEGA OMNIBUS SDN Dan MAJLIS PERBANDARAN HULU SELANGOR BBC television show Top Gear. Flintoff
VIGNESHWERI A/P KRISHNA BHD [Company No: 193801000048 Dalam perkara mengenai Pembinaan (dahulunya dikenali sebagai MAJLIS was hurt at Top Gear’s test track at
No. 22, Lorong Kaki Bukit, (968-H)] Emaskami Sdn Bhd (No. Pendaftaran: DAERAH Dunsfold Aerodrome in Surrey, southern
Bukit Gelugor, 200501024614 (706747- K)) HULU SELANGOR) England, with the BBC confirming he was
11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang. BETWEEN taken to hospital for treatment. Flintoff’s
Dan/Atau TANG SIEW WEI Dan ...PLAINTIF 16-year-old son Corey told the Daily Mail
VIGNESHWERI A/P KRISHNA (NRIC No.: 630107-08-5144) Dalam perkara mengenai Kaedah Dan that his father was fortunate to have
No. 484, Jalan Kaki Bukit, (Penggulungan) Syarikat 1972 survived the incident. “He’s OK. I’m not
Bukit Gelugor, .....PETITIONER 1. KO LE HING (NO. K/P: 590918-05-5113) too sure what happened but he is lucky
11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang. AND ANTARA 2. KHOO YAM HONG to be alive,” he said. “It was a pretty nasty
Dan/Atau MEGA OMNIBUS SDN BHD JOTUN (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD crash. It is shocking. We are all shocked
VIGNESHWERI A/P KRISHNA [Company No: 193801000048 (968-H)] (NO. PENDAFTARAN: 197301002970 …DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN but just hope he’s going to be OK.”
No. A 14-8, Kampong Melayu Flats, (16434-U)) Flintoff, a celebrated all-rounder better
11500 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. ..... RESPONDENT NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN SECARA known as “Freddie”, played 79 Tests and
AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION ... PEMPETISYEN PENGIKLANAN 148 one-day internationals for England
Notis Kebankrapan telah dikeluarkan NOTICE is hereby given that a petition DAN before retiring from cricket aged 32. The
terhadap kamu di Mahkamah for the winding-up of the above-named PEMBINAAN EMASKAMI SDN BHD Kepada, 45-year-old has gone on to have a
Tinggi Pulau Pinang ini oleh Hong Company by the High Court was, on the (NO. PENDAFTARAN: 200501024614 successful career in television, including
Leong Bank Berhad [No. Syarikat: 29th day of November, 2022 presented (706747-K)) KO LE HING co-presenting the hit motoring show Top
193401000023 (97141-X)] yang by the Petitioner, TANG SIEW WEI AND NO. K/P: 590918-05-5113 Gear. During his cricket career, Flintoff
beralamat di Pungutan Konsumer- that the said Petition is directed to be ...RESPONDEN KHOO YAM HONG played a pivotal role in England winning
Operasi Undang-undang, Level heard before the High Court (Insolvency PENGIKLANAN PETISYEN NO. 1890 Jalan Permata 12 the Ashes in 2005 and 2009.
2, Tower A, PJ City Development, Court) sitting at Kuala Lumpur at Level 5, NOTIS adalah dengan ini diberikan Taman Permata
15A, Jalan 219, Section 51A, 46100 Left Wing, Kompleks Mahkamah Kuala bahawa suatu petisyen untuk 53300 Kuala Lumpur
Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Lumpur, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim (Jalan penggulungan syarikat yang dinamakan Wilayah Persekutuan
dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan Duta), 50506 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah di atas oleh Mahkamah Tinggi telah
bahawa Notis Kebankrapan Persekutuan at 9.00 o’clock in the pada 29 November 2022 diserahkan oleh KO LE HING
tersebut diserahkan kepada kamu morning on Tuesday, 11th July 2023; Jotun (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. dan bahawa NO. K/P: 590918-05-5113
secara penyampaian ganti dengan and any creditor or contributory of the Petisyen tersebut adalah diarahkan untuk KHOO YAM HONG
menampalkan satu salinan Notis said Company desiring to support or dibicarakan di hadapan Mahkamah Tinggi No. 6 Jalan Kemboja 3F/1
Kebankrapan berserta dengan oppose the making of an order on the di Kuala Lumpur pada 11 haribulan Perniagaan Jalan Kemboja
satu salinan Perintah yang dibuat said Petition may appear at the time Julai 2023 pada jam 9.30 pagi; dan Bukit Sentosa
di sini di Papan Notis Mahkamah of hearing by himself or his counsel pemiutang atau penyumbang syarikat 48300 Rawang, Sentosa
Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinang, di for that purpose; and a copy of the tersebut yang berhasrat untuk menyokong
premis alamat terakhir Penghutang Petition will be furnished to any creditor atau membangkang pembuatan perintah AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu
Penghakiman di No. 22, Lorong Kaki or contributory of the said Company sepertimana yang diminta dalam Petisyen tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap
Bukit, Bukit Gelugor, 11700 Gelugor, requiring the same by the undersigned bolehlah hadir sewaktu perbicaraan kamu di Mahkamah Majistret Kuala
Pulau Pinang dan No. 484, Jalan on payment of the regulated charge for samada secara sendiri atau melalui Kubu Bharu dalam Guaman Sivil No.
Kaki Bukit, Bukit Gelugor, 11700 the same. peguamcara bagi tujuan tersebut; dan BF-A72NCvC-212-10/2022 oleh MAJLIS
Gelugor, Pulau Pinang dan No. A The Petitioner’s address of service is sesalinan petisyen akan diberikan PERBANDARAN HULU SELANGOR
14-8, Kampong Melayu Flats, 11500 at 2nd Floor, No. 17 & 19, Jalan Brunei kepada pemiutang atau penyumbang (dahulunya dikenali sebagai MAJLIS
Georgetown, Pulau Pinang dengan Barat, Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur. syarikat tersebut yang memintanya oleh DAERAH HULU SELANGOR) yang
mengiklankan satu Notis sekali di The Petitioner’s solicitors is MESSRS. penandatangan di bawah ini apabila beralamat di Jalan Bukit Kerajaan,
mana-mana suratkhabar tempatan LOW & PARTNERS of No. 5, Jalan bayaran yang ditetapkan dibuat untuknya. 44000 Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
berbahasa Inggeris iaitu The Sun SS 21/23, Damansara Utama, 47400 Alamat Pempetisyen adalah di Lot 7, Darul Ehsan dan Mahkamah ini telah
untuk satu terbitan dan penampalan Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Persiaran Perusahaan, Seksyen 23, 40700 memberi perintah bahawa Writ Saman
dan pengiklanan tersebut disifatkan Dated the 5th day of December 2022. Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan. bertarikh 04.10.2022 hendaklah
baik dan memadai bagi penyampaian Peguamcara Pempetisyen adalah T/n Yong dilaksanakan secara penyampaian
Notis Kebankrapan terhadap T.T. Dan Rakan-Rakan di No. 12-1, Tingkat 1, ganti kepada Defendan-Defendan
Penghutang Penghakiman tersebut .................................................... Jalan Tiara 2D/KU1, Bandar Baru Klang, dengan menampalkan satu salinan
selepas tamat tempoh tujuh (7) hari 41150 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. perintah ini pada papan kenyataan di
selepas tarikh akhir penampalan dan Messrs. Low & Partners Mahkamah Majistret, Kuala Kubu Bharu,
pengiklanan tersebut. For and on behalf of the Petitioner t.t. menampalkan satu salinan perintah
Notis Kebankrapan boleh diperiksa NOTE:- ……………………………….. ini pada alamat terakhir Defendan-
oleh kamu atas permohonan di Any person who intends to appear on the Defendan yang diketahui dan juga secara
Mahkamah ini. hearing of the said Petition must serve T/n Yong Dan Rakan-Rakan menyiarkan sesalinan Notis Periklanan
on or send by post to the abovenamed Peguamcara Pempetisyen untuk sekali sahaja di suratkhabar
Bertarikh pada 1 Disember 2022 solicitors, Messrs. Low & Partners, NOTA - Bahawa sesiapa yang bercadang tempatan dan bahawa penyampaian
t.t notice in writing of his intention so to untuk hadir di perbicaraan petisyen sedemikian hendaklah menjadi satu
do. The notice must state the name and tersebut hendaklah menyerahkan penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup
…...…………………… address of the person, or if a firm, the atau mengirim secara pos kepada T/n dalam tempoh empat belas (14) hari
SHYAHIRAH BINTI ABDUL SALIM name and address of the firm and must Yong Dan Rakan-Rakan notis bertulis dari tarikh akhir penampalan dokumen
be signed by the person or firm, or his or berkenaan niat tersebut. Notis tersebut tersebut dan pengiklanan notis tersebut
Penolong Kanan Pendaftar their solicitor (if any) and must be served, hendaklah menyatakan nama dan alamat mengikut yang mana lebih lewat.
Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya or, if posted, must be sent by post in orang tersebut, atau jika sebuah firma,
sufficient time to reach the abovenamed nama dan alamat firma tersebut, dan Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela
Georgetown solicitors not later than 12.00 o’clock hendaklah ditandatangani oleh orang dalam tindakan tersebut kamu mestilah
Notis ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan noon on Monday, 10th July 2023. tersebut atau firma, atau peguamcaranya dalam masa empat belas (14) hari dari
Murad & Foo yang beralamat di This ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION is (jika ada) dan hendaklah diserahkan atau penampalan dan penyiaran pengiklanan
Suite 10.01, Tingkat 10, MWE Plaza, filed by Messrs. Low & Partners of No. jika dikirim, hendaklah dikirim melalui pos ini, memfailkan Memorandum Kehadiran.
No. 8, Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Pulau 5, Jalan SS 21/23, Damansara Utama, dalam jangkamasa yang memadai untuk Kegagalan kamu untuk berbuat demikian
Pinang Peguamcara bagi Pemiutang 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul sampai ke alamat tersebut di atas tidak boleh menyebabkan Penghakiman Ingkar
Penghakiman tersebut di atas. Ehsan, solicitors for the abovesaid lewat dari jam 12.00 tengahari pada 10hb boleh diberikan terhadap kamu.
[Ruj: TLN/HLBB/F.164/2019(BN2)/ina] Petitioner. Julai 2023.
Tel: 03-7729 5293 Pengiklanan Petisyen ini dikeluarkan oleh Bertarikh pada 16 haribulan Disember
Fax: 03-7729 5298 T/n Yong Dan Rakan-Rakan peguamcara 2022.
Ref:LP/GL/11461/10/22/WCK/DC/ bagi Pempetisyen yang beralamat untuk
LY_WCK penyampaian di No. 12-1, Tingkat 1, Jalan t.t.
ly Tiara 2D/KU1, Bandar Baru Klang, 41150 …………………………
Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif
Tel: 03-33427207/9 Law Practice of K.A. Ramu
Fax: 03-33414202
AG/Waini/Ig Notis Penyampaian Secara
Ruj: JMSB/PEKSB/33410/2022/AG Pengiklanan ini telah dikeluarkan oleh
Law Practice of K. A. Ramu , Peguambela
& Peguamcara, peguamcara bagi
Plaintif yang dinamakan diatas dan yang
mempunyai alamat penyampaiannya
di 15-1-A Jalan MH3, Taman Muzaffar
Heights, 75450 Ayer Keroh, Melaka

Tel : 03-76665625
Ruj:KARV/LIT/MDHS(KLH)/1399/2019
Email :lawpracticeofkaramu@gmail.com

19theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
SPORTS

Verstappen to the Max

MORE dominant and a lot less Red Bull ace races to F1 title
controversial, Max Verstappen’s in dominant 2022 season
second Formula One world
championship was very different to have an impressive car to build on next year and
the first. stability with Mexican Sergio Perez alongside
The 25-year-old Red Bull driver may start 2023 Verstappen.
as favourite for a third, but the chances are he will
face more of a challenge than in 2022. Mercedes took a wrong turn, all at sea with a
The Dutchman never had it so good, coming “porpoising” car but salvaging some pride late on
back from two retirements in the first three races with George Russell leading a one-two in Brazil
to turn around a massive 46 point deficit and for his first win.
finish with a record 15 victories from 22 grands
prix. “With our learnings, the values in the team,
He scored more points in a season (454) than the empowerment and the no blame culture, I
anyone ever before, and nine of the wins were not think we will be back in a more potent form next
from pole position. Belgium was perhaps the year – hopefully winning races on merit and
most satisfying victory of all from 14th on the grid. fighting for the championship,” said team boss
“We won the drivers’ (title), and the Toto Wolff.
constructors,’ we had a lot of victories as a team,
so I would say this one is better and more Ferrari started strongly, in the first year of a
rewarding. But the first one will always be more major aerodynamic rule change aimed at making
emotional,” he said. racing closer and more exciting, but hopes of a
Verstappen made it successive titles with four first title since 2008 turned to dust.
races to spare, a marked contrast to 2021 when he
entered the final race in Abu Dhabi level on After winning two of the first three races with
points with Mercedes’ seven-times world Charles Leclerc, they suffered driver errors,
champion Lewis Hamilton. strategy mistakes and a lack of reliability although
That first title owed much to a controversial Carlos Sainz did take his first grand prix win.
late change to the safety car procedure but this
time there was a sense of inevitability as Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto resigned in
Hamilton, 37, endured his first season without a November after the team finished distant
victory and finished a career low sixth overall. runners-up, still a big step forward compared to
The fans lapped it up, with races sold out and the previous two winless seasons.
viewing figures soaring.
There were memorable moments, not least Next year will have a record 23 races, possibly
the spectacular crash of Chinese rookie Guanyu 24 if China is replaced, and the debut of a
Zhou whose Alfa Romeo flipped upside down Saturday night spectacular in Las Vegas.
and over the tyre wall at Silverstone in an
accident that ripped off the roll hoop but left him Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel
unhurt. will not be there, the German retiring after his last
It was Red Bull’s best ever season – 17 wins race with Aston Martin.
and five one-two finishes bringing a fifth
constructors’ title and ending Australian Daniel Ricciardo also stepped off
Mercedes’ record run of eight the grid after another difficult year at McLaren, to
in a row.
It was also bittersweet, be replaced by compatriot Oscar Piastri
the team title secured a day after the team won a contract battle
after the death of with Renault-owned Alpine.
billionaire owner Dietrich Mick Schumacher, son of seven-
Mateschitz. times world champion Michael,
Red Bull were also will be another absentee after
punished for breaching losing his Haas seat to fellow-
the budget cap in 2021 – German Nico Hulkenberg while
a big talking point – but Max Verstappen. – AFPPIX Canadian Nicholas Latifi
bowed out at Williams.
Ross Brawn, who won titles
with his own team and then
became Formula One’s
managing director for
motorsport, also said farewell.
– Reuters

Fracas between LIV Golf and PGA Tour highlights eventful year

ONCE dismissed by many as a joke, the launch of But LIV Golf has since seen its stable of golfers action at the Masters in April, 14 months after a car former world No. 1 Johnson walked away with the
LIV Golf divided the sport in 2022 as the Saudi- grow more impressively than many expected and crash that nearly resulted in doctors amputating most riches as he banked more than US$35 million
backed circuit lured top players from the PGA Tour counts majors winners Cameron Smith, Phil his right leg. (RM157m) in eight LIV Golf events spread across
with huge paydays while the two sides entered an Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka and five months.
ongoing legal battle. Bryson DeChambeau among its recruits. The 15-times major winner withdrew from the
PGA Championship after the third round, during Johnson’s financial windfall was bolstered by
And though Tiger Woods’ return to competition Critics say LIV Golf, which is bankrolled by Saudi which his surgically-repaired leg appeared to be the staggering US$18 million
after a near-fatal car crash in Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, amounts to causing him significant discomfort, skipped the US (RM81m) he earned for
February 2021 grabbed “sportswashing” by a nation trying to improve its Open and missed the cut at the British Open. clinching the season-
plenty of attention, reputation in the face of criticism over its human long individual title
LIV Golf proved the rights record. No PGA Tour golfer had as solid a year as and he had fun with
defining story of Scottie Scheffler, whose Masters triumph the media when
the year as it McIlroy, who has become the PGA Tour’s gave him four wins in the span of six asked whether his
upended the unofficial spokesperson on all things LIV starts and helped earn him PGA Tour move to LIV Golf
professional golf Golf, has said the sport is “ripping itself Player of the Year honors. met or exceeded
landscape. apart” and the damage may be his expectations.
“irreparable” without a truce. At the PGA Championship, Justin “I really
In February, Moments after the first tee shots were struck in Thomas tied the largest comeback in the regret my
current world LIV Golf’s inaugural event in June the PGA Tour tournament’s history when he erased a seven- decision to come
No. 1 Rory suspended its members who were in the field and stroke deficit in the final round to beat Will here,” Johnson said
McIlroy said the said anyone else who makes the jump would face Zalatoris in a playoff for his second major title. sarcastically. “It’s just
proposed LIV Golf the same fate. so terrible. I’m sitting
circuit was “dead Along the way, LIV Golf joined a handful of its In the year’s third major, Englishman there last night thinking
in the water” players in an antitrust lawsuit against the PGA Tour, Matthew Fitzpatrick delivered a shot for the about it, it was really
after many high- which then filed a counter-claim saying golfers ages when he found the green from a fairway bothering me a lot.
profile players knew they had no unilateral right to defect and bunker on the last hole at the US Open where Yeah, just can’t get
pledged their that breaching contracts would result in bans. he held off a late charge from Zalatoris and over it.” –
loyalty to Faced with the LIV Golf threat, the PGA Tour Scheffler. Reuters
the PGA announced new measures intended to make Johnson.
Tour. the US-based circuit more lucrative for top At the British Open, Australian Smith
Mcilroy. players. carded a stunning final-round 64 to surge
past McIlroy and then reacted angrily
LIV Golf, meanwhile, is awaiting a during his victory news
decision on whether its circuit will receive conference when asked if
world ranking points – which play a key role he was joining LIV
in deciding entry into the four majors – and Golf, a move that
if things go their way PGA Tour players may was officially
start lining up to join. announced six
weeks later.
Woods provided some distraction from
the LIV Golf noise as he was inducted into When it
the World Golf Hall of Fame and returned to came to
prize
money,

20 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022 READ OUR HERE SCAN
SPORTS ME
/thesundaily

Fans clash as riot police lose control after semifinal match

CHAOTIC scenes unfolded in France to streets up and down the country eruption of violence and vandalism Moroccans living in France. The A French anti-riot police van even
after the nation’s 2-0 World Cup to celebrate their achievements. Yet amid a smoky backdrop. country’s history of colonising the used one of its sirens to mark the
semifinal victory over Morocco. the adrenaline-fuelled atmosphere Fans also filled the streets of other North African nation is understood to moment when Kolo Muani scored
resulted in clashes, especially in cities such as Nice and Bordeaux, have added to the tensions. the goal to give France a 2-0 lead.
Theo Hernandez and Randal Kolo Montpellier on the south coast. where there remained a notable As football lovers in Paris “What pleasure it will be to play
Muani both netted to send France to Video footage uploaded to social police presence. thronged to the end of the avenue Argentina in the final,” said Sylvain
the final in Qatar, while Morocco media showed violent scenes It is understood that 10,000 police leading to the Arc de Triomphe, the Badin, 24, clutching a French flag. “I
finally bowed out of the competition unfolding in the city’s main square. officers were deployed across France mood was impassioned but largely came to share a moment of joy.”
after capturing the hearts of viewers Fans could be seen climbing the in anticipation of riots before the good-natured, with Moroccan “We lost but it’s only football and
around the world. landmark fountain, while chairs were fixture. One Parisian official even supporters accepting defeat. we made history by making the
thrown and fireworks launched at described what would occur as a “civil “We are in the final. We are in the semifinals. We are proud of our
But while the scenes on the Al others. war”. final,” hundreds of French supporters country and happy for France,” said
Bayt pitch were peaceful at fulltime, It prompted a response from the The match was always going to chanted as drivers sounded horns Kamal Seddiki, a 22-year-old
trouble brewed across various cities emergency services, with riot police spark plenty of emotion given the and anti-riot police lurked in vans Moroccan student. – Daily
back in France – which is known for staggering 1.5 million population of lining the area.
its large population of Moroccans. Atlas Lions kings of Africabeingsummonedtodealwiththe Star/AFP/Reuters

Supporters of both nations took

SHORTS

Ronaldo in Real hunt for new club

CRISTIANO RONALDO has been Dream of World Cup final over but Moroccans hail heroes
spotted training with former club Real
Madrid at their training base as the THEY may have fallen just ever get so far. score in the World Cup. “I’ve been watching their
unattached Portuguese superstar short of reaching the World This time, the car horns and the “In this neighbourhood, we love progress as if it was my own
searches for a new club for the first Cup final, but Moroccans country.”
time in his career as a free agent, on Wednesday hailed their drummers were muted. football, so of course the national
according to reports. team’s historic run as it ended with “The national team has been team’s victories make us dream,” From Gaza to Senegal, the
a 2-0 defeat to reigning champions said teenager Mohamed Nadifi, a team’s success has transformed the
The 37-year-old has returned from France. performing miracles since the start teenager whose idol is winger image of Morocco.
World Cup duty with Portugal to head of the World Cup,” said Rachid Sofiane Boufal.
straight to Madrid as he looks to stay “They played a great game but Sabbiq, a street trader in the “They proved that an African
fit while he looks for a new club luck wasn’t on our side,” said working-class Derb Sultan district All over Morocco, shops have team can go places, and really
following the termination of his supporter Oussama Abdouh in of Casablanca before the match. been selling team jerseys and flags. compete,” said Said Mouhssine, 48,
contract by Manchester United. Casablanca. after the match.
“It doesn’t matter whether they “Not only have the Lions made
It is the first time in four years that “Still, we stood up to the title- win or lose – they’ve won the us happy but they also allowed us For others, the match had a taste
Ronaldo has returned to his former holders, that was great. respect and admiration of all to get business going again” despite of politics, coming in the middle of
club, who he left in 2018 to join Moroccans, and that’s priceless,” he rough economic times for many a diplomatic spat between Paris
Juventus after spending nine glorious “Beyond the World Cup, this said. Moroccans, said trader Khalid and Rabat over the ever-
years with the La Liga giants following team made us dream until the end Alaoui. contentious Western Sahara issue.
his world-record £80 million and just for that I raise my hat to Sabbiq had swapped his usual
(RM440m) transfer in 2009. them.” fare of sweets to sell Moroccan Touria Matrougui braved cold Some fans were doubly
flags. and torrential rain to buy jerseys for disappointed as national carrier
And while reports teased a shock But for Hakim Salama, the 2-0 her four nephews. Royal Air Maroc was forced to
return, it is believed Ronaldo is only defeat to France was too much. Derb Sultan was a bastion of cancel extra flights for fans to Qatar
working on his fitness levels at their resistance against colonial “They held the Moroccan flag just hours after announcing them.
training base in Valdebebas, dashing “We missed the opportunity of authorities when the North African high and for that, we can never
any hopes he may have had of the century,” he said. kingdom was a French protectorate than them enough,” she said. Other supporters who had
returning for a second spell with the from 1912 until 1956, and gave rise already reached the Gulf state were
Champions League holders. Rain lashed the capital Rabat to one of Morocco’s top teams, Raja The team’s success has also won unable to get tickets they had been
yesterday evening and the de Casablanca. it support far across the continent. promised.
According to Spanish outlet Relevo, atmosphere was far from the
Ronaldo returned to his former home exhilaration of the historic victories It was also the birthplace of “Morocco has made an entire Some accused staff at the
to be put through his paces while he that brought the Lions of the Atlas legendary striker Mohamed Jarrir continent proud,” said Sidibey Moroccan Football Federation of
waits on news regarding his next to within sight of a World Cup final (alias “Houmane”), who in 1970 Zoumana, from the Ivory Coast, handing out the coveted passes to
move. – the first Arab or African team to became the first Moroccan ever to who has lived in the country since friends and families. – AFP
2018.
Madrid do not hold any interest in
re-signing Ronaldo despite an injury
to star forward and 2022 Ballon d’Or
winner Karim Benzema, who missed
the World Cup with a thigh injury.

Mourinho eyed for Portugal job Morocco players after the match against France. – REUTERSPIX

JOSE MOURINHO is sensationally England players in three-way battle for Dave the cat
being touted as a replacement for
Fernando Santos as Portugal boss, IT is known that those of the feline persuasion can And it appears the duo, along with midfielder However, he conceded his close friend Stones
which would also see him combine capture the hearts of millions of Britons – and it Kalvin Phillips, are making a beeline for the feline, was the one to christen him with his now-famous
his managerial duties with AS Roma. appears the England football team are no according to the Daily Star. name and the centreback is known to have fed him
exception when it comes to Dave the cat. too: “John named him Dave,”Walker explained.
The self-proclaimed “Special One”, Walker pledged to bring home the stray cat
59, is currently situated as Head Coach Reports suggest England’s trusty World Cup after he started repeatedly turned up for dinner at The battle has generated some friendly banter
in the Italian capital, continuing his mascot, who made an impression on the players at the team hotel in Qatar and, with some of the amongst the players, with Walker posting a picture
rich winning streak by claiming the their Al Wakrah training base, is set to fly to the UK richest footballers at his mercy, he was never likely of himself yelling at Stones on the pitch with the
inaugural Europa Conference League with as many as three players willing to give him a to go hungry for long. caption: “Having to tell @johnstonesofficial he can’t
trophy in his debut season. permanent home. take Dave the cat home with him.”
Indisputably one of the game’s Walker made his claim early on after posting an
greatest-ever gaffers, Mourinho has “Dave” gained national attention when on their Instagram snap of himself with the animal, saying Their fellow City team-mate Kalvin Phillips, 27,
bagged a sensational 26 major first day in Qatar, England duo John Stones and he “loves” the cat despite some dissenting voices in attempted to blow the race wide open by declaring
honours throughout a glittering Kyle Walker snapped a photo of the feline while the England camp. And it appears he is the the puss the Three Lions’ official mascot but it may
career in the dugout, including eight they sat down for breakfast in the Middle Eastern favourite to win the race for his paw prints after be that Dave is given a straight choice between
top-flight titles across four leagues. sunshine. taking a shine to the two-year-old cat. Walker and Stones. – Express Newspapers

According to Italian outlet La
Gazzetta dello Sport, Mourinho tops
the managerial wish-list put together
by the Portuguese Football Federation
(PFF) to replace Fernando Santos and
the role is understood to be of interest
to the two-time Champions League
winner.

Though still under contract at the
Olympic Stadium until the end of the
2023/24 season, Mourinho is unwilling
to depart I Giallorossi midway through
his rebuilding project and so the
proposal from the PFF is that the 59-
year-old would manage both sides
simultaneously.

Portugal’s quarterfinal exit in Qatar
will signal the end of the road for
Santos, who is expected to be relieved
of his duties in the coming weeks.

Messi vs Mbappe 21theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
SPORTS
Comparing PSG stars ahead
of the World Cup final Whole world can be proud of Morocco: Regragui

PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN teammates Lionel MOROCCO leave Qatar disappointed but people tonight, we wanted to keep the the best defensive record in the tournament,
Messi and Kylian Mbappe will go head-to- filled with pride at having written their dream alive. But we’re pleased with what conceded from France’s first serious attack
head in Sunday’s World Cup final as names into the history books by becoming we’ve achieved. five minutes into the game.
Argentina take on reigning champions the first African team to reach the World Cup
France. semifinals, their coach Walid Regragui said. “We felt that we could have even gone “Today, if I have regrets, it’s the start of
even further but these small details help real the game,” Regragui added. “We started
Messi, at the age of 35, is looking to win Morocco were beaten 2-0 by France champions, which we saw tonight, of quite poorly and we conceded a goal very
his first World Cup at – in all probability – yesterday and will go into a playoff for third course.” quickly and that made the difference.
his last tournament while Mbappe, 12 place with Croatia while the French will face
years his junior, will join an elite group of Argentina in the final. Regragui told his players he was proud of “They allowed us to have quite a lot of
players to have successfully defended the them. possession, but we made too many mistakes
title should France repeat their feat of “We realise that we made a great to cause them problems.”
Russia 2018. achievement already,” Regragui told “His Majesty was also proud, the
reporters. “We know that the media, social Moroccan people were proud,” he said. “I Regragui thought his team improved in
Messi and Mbappe jointly lead the race media, and on TV, we saw the pictures, and think the world as a whole is proud of this the second half.
for the Golden Boot with five goals apiece. we saw that everyone was proud of us in our Moroccan team because we show great
country. desire. We work hard, and we played honest, “We created a lot of opportunities, but
Messi has failed to score in only one of hard-working football.” unfortunately we weren’t clinical in the last
his six starts, although three goals have “We’re disappointed for the Moroccan third… we tried everything to get a goal,” he
come from the penalty spot. He has also Morocco, who came into the match with said. – Agencies
produced three assists.
Messi challenge
Mbappe has scored twice on two Griezmann admits Les Bleus face a different challenge against Argentina captain
occasions and one of his two blank games
was as a 63rd-minute substitute in the █ SIMON PEACH the crowd.
defeat to Tunisia. “We will get back to work
France’s Antoine Griezmann collides with ANTOINE GRIEZMANN
Messi’s spot-kick in the semifinal win Morocco’s Selim Amallah during their says playing Lionel Messi is tomorrow, focused on it, how we
over Croatia was his 11th World Cup goal World Cup semifinal match. – AFPPIX “a totally different can hurt them, how we can defend
in total and took him above Gabriel proposition” to anything against them. We will be well
Batistuta’s 10 as Argentina’s record scorer else they have faced in Qatar as prepared.”
at the tournament. France gear up for a World Cup title
defence against Argentina. The need to refocus on Argentina
He needs one more to equal Pele’s tally explained their somewhat stilted
of World Cup goals while Sunday’s final Four and a half years on from celebrations at full-time in Al Khor
appearance will see him surpass beating Croatia to win their second in contrast to the way they enjoyed
Germany’s Lothar Matthaus’ record of 25 world title, Didier Deschamps’ winning their 2018 semifinal against
appearances at the tournament. Belgium in Russia.
side are reaching another final by
With nine goals over two tournaments seeing off spirited Morocco in a “Against Belgium I cried and I
to his name Mbappe has already moved breathless semifinal clash on think now more focused,”
ahead of Pele for most World Cup goals Wednesday. Griezmann said.
scored before the age of 24.
Theo Hernandez’s early “I am already focusing on the
If France retain their title he would acrobatic effort and a final on Sunday, trying to keep my
become the first player after Pele in 1962 Randal Kolo Muani tap-in feet on the ground.
to win two World Cups by the age of 23.
He is four behind Just Fontaine’s French sealed a hard-fought 2-0 “I’m trying to remain calm and
record of 13 – although he scored all of his win at Al Bayt Stadium, focused and I’m going to have to
at the 1958 tournament. where they edged past recover from this game and prepare
Gareth Southgate’s for Sunday’s match.”
Messi has long since been the England 2-1 in last
undisputed talisman for Argentina but the Griezmann has been one of the
pressure on him to deliver at the weekend’s tight stars of the tournament in Qatar and
tournament was great even before the quarterfinal clash. the forward impressed again in a
opening shock defeat by Saudi Arabia. deeper role against Morocco.
But Griezmann
He has scored the first goal four times believes France now France had to dig deeper than
and only once – against Saudi – has it not face a different many expected against Walid
resulted in victory. challenge entirely Regragui’s side, who produced
given the quality some excellent football and proved
Two brilliant assists, one a visionary possessed by a handful throughout.
pass for Nahuel Molina against the Argentina captain –
Netherlands and a dazzling run from and former Barcelona “Morocco impressed me
halfway to set up Julian Alvarez against teammate – Messi. tonight,” man of the match
Croatia, have only enhanced his The 35-year-old has shone Griezmann added.
importance. in what looks likely to be his fifth
and final World Cup, with the “They were set up very well
In the absence of Karim Benzema there forward hell bent on crowning a tactically, defensively and then in
was more focus on Mbappe and he glittering career with glory on the second half they created a lot of
responded by scoring both goals against Sunday. opportunities and caused problems
Denmark – including an 86th-minute “Any team with Messi in is a for us.
winner – and with the game against totally different proposition.”
Poland still in the balance he grabbed a Griezmann said. “We have seen “Our coach realised and put
double in the last 16 minutes to make practically all of their matches at Marcus (Thuram) on the left and it
things safe. this World Cup. was a change that really helped as
“We have seen Argentina play, we were stronger on the left to help
His two assists for Olivier Giroud, an we know how they play. They are a Theo defend.
enticing cross and clever through-ball, difficult team to play and they seem
highlighted his all-round game. to be on top form. “The fact we scored an early goal
“Of course, not only Messi, they made things easier for us as well,
Mbappe was kept largely under wraps have a strong side around him so we the second goal made it more
as Morocco impressed despite going a know it is going to be a tough game comfortable, but it was a tough
goal down early in the semifinals, but and they will have a lot of support in game and it comes down to small
eventually the PSG star was given enough details.
room to take aim, with his shot deflecting
into the path of newly introduced Randal “A shot can go your way or not,
Kolo Muani for him to tap home in the you need a little rub of the green
79th minute. – The Independent and we are going to learn from this.”
– AFP
LIONEL MESSI will be “licking his lips” ahead of
facing France in the World Cup final, former Ferdinand pinpoints major France flaw
Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand
believes. BBC. the penalty spot before Manchester City pundit Didier Drogba feels the French have an
“They will be thinking there are man Alvarez bagged a superb brace. advantage due to their experience.
Ferdinand has said that Messi could be Alvarez was assisted by a
afforded lots of space in the game, especially areas they can get at France, mesmerising Messi run for his second Didier Deschamps’ side are bidding to
on France’s left-hand side. particularly down the left-hand area goal. The Paris Saint-Germain ace picked become the first team to retain the World Cup
of their defence. up the ball on the right-hand side of the since the famous Brazil side of 1962.
Les Bleus tend to allow left-winger Kylian pitch and dazzled Chelsea transfer target
Mbappe to stay further up the pitch, leaving “When France were run at they Josko Gvardiol before teeing up “France do have the advantage of being in
Theo Hernandez exposed. did panic a little bit and with Julian Alvarez. the final and winning it four years ago. You
Alvarez and Messi dancing and Those are the exact know how to handle the pressure, you’ve been
Messi will therefore be able to exploit the wiggling around, it is going to positions that there, but they have new players and it will be
areas left behind by the French, just like he did be a great game.” Ferdinand expects new for them,” Drogba said.
against Croatia in Argentina’s 3-0 semifinal Messi to pick up
victory on Wednesday. Messi and attacking against France. “It might be the first time some of them
partner Alvarez were However, have played against Lionel Messi as well. The
The 35-year-old produced a man-of-the- excellent against Ferdinand’s pressure will be there.
match performance against the European side Croatia. The seven- Ferdinand fellow BBC
and Ferdinand says he will be “licking his lips” times Ballon d’Or “This France team are very, very
before taking on France. winner scored the competitive, especially with Didier Deschamps
opening goal from as their manager. They want to win it back to
“As good as France are, I think Lionel Messi back.” – Agencies
and Argentina will be sat there licking their lips
a little bit,” the ex-England captain said on the

22 theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022 PLAYER RATING

SPORTS France vs Morocco

Stellar French reservist
Hernandez adds to Les Bleus’ cast of second-choice stand-outs FRANCE ended Morocco’s World Cup dream as goals from Theo
Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani gave the holders a 2-0 win in their
█ RICHARD JOLLY have become invaluable. interventions in his penalty box. semifinal clash to set up a showdown on Sunday with Lionel Messi’s
Perhaps no country enjoys such But factor in the loss of Nkunku and Argentina. Morocco had late chances but could not net the consolation
JACK CHARLTON was not even the they deserved. Here are the player ratings (out of 10) from yesterday’s
best footballer in his own family but strength in depth in so many positions, Presnel Kimpembe and those six semifinal, as France now head through to face Argentina.
he was a World Cup winner. Theo but France have required it and it is injuries would have ended the chances
Hernandez might not be the best remarkable how well some who might of many a side. Theirs could have been FRANCE SUBS: M Thuram – 7, R Kolo
have been deputies have done. a forgivable failure, explained by Muani – 7
left-back in his family but he has scored Had Karim Benzema been fit, Olivier lucklessness and a lengthy casualty list, 8Hugo
in a World Cup semifinal. In the Giroud would have been on the bench, but instead France advance to the final. LLORIS: One MOROCCO
process, he may make his injured but he has scored four goals, produced a When injury did not waylay their low save to his
brother a double World Cup winner. barnstorming display against Morocco players, illness did. Deschamps needed left early on and 6Yassine
Certainly Didier Deschamps began and drilled a shot against the post. the reserves to the reserves, Youssouf then got a tiny BOUNO
the World Cup 2022 by preferring Lucas Were N’Golo Kante available, Fofana in midfield and Ibrahima Konate hand to the bicy- U: Beaten
Hernandez, the more defensively-solid Aurelien Tchouameni would probably at the back because Rabiot and Dayot cle kick against from close
sibling and a stalwart of the 2018- be a reserve: instead he is a Upamecano were sick. the post – in range early
winning side. commanding presence at the base of But Konate conjured a goal-saving between was very on though
He advances to a second successive the midfield and, besides knocking interception to deny Youssef En-Nesyri strong aerially to not much he
final in part thanks to the second Kante out of Deschamps’ first XI, should a tap-in. Impressive in the Champions punch clear dangerous deliver- could do; late on it
choice, who was swiftly promoted when be a candidate for a place in the team of League final in summer, he was ies. was the same after a
his brother damaged a cruciate the tournament. similarly good in a World Cup semifinal. deflection.
ligament in the opening minutes of the If Paul Pogba were playing, Antoine The loyalist in Deschamps will 5Jules KOUNDE: Really strug-
tournament. Griezmann would probably not be probably prefer Upamecano against gled to stop either left-back 8Achraf HAKIMI: Big block on
He saw off Morocco thanks to a man operating in midfield but he deserves to Argentina if he recovers, but Konate getting beyond him and didn’t Mbappe in the lead-up to the
who started the World Cup on the figure on the shortlist for the presented a compelling case to start. offer enough in France’s own opener. Great outlet more than
bench and one who began the evening Golden Ball. He has adapted It is a dilemma that may bring build-up play. Not his finest once in that first half. One of the
as a replacement: Theo was joined on so well to a deeper role that Deschamps little sympathy from peers game. team’s best attackers, yet still did
the scoresheet by Randal Kolo Muani, he made a string of crucial with lesser resources. No one else has his defensive work well.
who received a late call-up for the such depth at centreback as France. 6RaphaelVARANE: Good in
World Cup when Christopher Nkunku Even without Kimpembe and the air to repel Morocco’s 7Achraf DARI: Into the line-up
was ruled out. Upamecano, they still left William crosses, while his short-range at the last minute in place of
They are far from the only examples Saliba on the bench. The winger passing out was good too. Did Nayef Aguerd. Couldn’t clear the
of how France have turned adversity Kolo Muani was summoned instead. hesitate a few times against Hernandez goal when on the line
into an advantage. Theo Hernandez’s Uncapped until September, his Morocco’s quick interplay and but stepped up well and made a
adventurous streak explains why he was first international goal came with his movement, which was almost good impression at short notice.
the first opponent to score against first touch in what may prove only costly.
Morocco this World Cup: why, when the second biggest game of his week. 7Jawad ELYAMIQ: Started the
Kylian Mbappe’s shot was blocked, he He joins an eclectic bunch. 9Ibrahima KONATE: Bullied half by sliding in for a ball he
was on hand in the six-yard box to hook Apart from Zinedine Zidane, his opponents on the ground couldn’t reach which ultimately
in a shot. France’s other scorers in World Cup and in the air. An immense cost a goal; almost ended the
The younger Hernandez has added semifinals since 1998 have been a right- showing and will surely be a half by scoring an outrageous
another dimension. He set up France’s back, a centreback and a left-back, in huge consideration now for overhead kick which hit the post.
first goal in Qatar, Adrien Rabiot’s Lilian Thuram, Samuel Umtiti and Didier Deschamps as to who Also cleared one almost off the
equaliser against Australia. He crossed now Hernandez. starts the final. line, though couldn’t produce
for Mbappe to open the scoring against Their winning formula has another block later to stop
Denmark. tended to entail an unlikely scorer. 7Theo HERNANDEZ: After a France’s second.
The older Hernandez, admittedly, Hernandez only had one previous tricky last-eight encounter he
might have kept Hakim Ziyech quieter international goal. Umtiti scored a righted those wrongs inside five 5Roman SAISS: Tried to over-
as many of Morocco’s attacks were France’s Theo Hernandez scores their mere four. minutes with his leaping strike. come his injury but lasted
concentrated on their right flank. Theo first goal during the FIFA World Cup Most remarkably, Thuram, Defensively it was 50-50 in terms only 20 minutes. In that time he
could have conceded a penalty for a Qatar 2022 semifinal match against in 142 caps, struck just twice: of repelling danger and being was outrun by Giroud.
collision with Sofiane Boufal; instead, Morocco yesterday. – REUTERSPIX both against Croatia in the 1998 beaten quick Morocco
exchanges. 7Noussair MAZRAOUI: Over-
the winger was unfortunate to be semifinal. and under-lapped to great
booked. It was not how many 7AurelienTCHOUAMENI: Was effect in the first half but was
Deschamps’ initial blueprint of a they scored, however, but somewhat overrun in the withdrawn at the break as his hip
defensive left-back had a certain logic when, and Theo middle. Too loose in possession injury flared up.
when he has a Hernandez and Muani, at times and caught in posses-
destructive left who might have been sion in dangerous areas. 8Sofyan AMRABAT:
winger, in watching on from the Combative first half. Made s
Mbappe, who technical area and 4Youssouf FOFANA: Poor few big challenges when
does not track the sofa decision-making, didn’t track needed, fair or otherwise, but
back. respectively, his runner on plenty of occasions, also some really clever passing
But his instead never really quick enough in the through the lines to open up
plans have showed tackle and wasted a great chance France’s midfield.
required constant France’s on the counter.
rethinking. Hernandez second- 8Azzedine OUNAHI: Brave
felt a fitting figure to string players 9Antoine GRIEZMANN: performer on the ball, happy
propel France onwards. could make Superb early movement to to take possession under pres-
This has been their them officially take the ball in a dangerous area sure. So close to scoring in injury
World Cup of the stand- first in the world. in the lead-up to the opener and time.
in, of the understudies who – The Independent continued in that vein through-
out. Even popped up to make 8Hakim ZIYECH: Spurned an
Messi doesn’t scare us, says defender interceptions in his six-yard box. early chance on the overlap
but one-touch interplay down
█ LUKE BAKER over Morocco – insists Messi doesn’t his shot deflected straight to Randal Kolo 5Ousmane DEMBELE: Very the channel was immaculate for
THEO HERNANDEZ is adamant that hold any fear for Didier Deschamps’ men Muani to turn home 11 minutes from quiet indeed. Only livened up the most part.
Lionel Messi doesn’t scare France as they and claims they won’t give up their time. a few times on the counter and
prepare to take on Argentina in Sunday’s trophy without a fight. never really found the way to 7Sofiane BOUFAL: Booked
World Cup final. That ended Moroccan resistance after unlock the door. for... being in the way?! But
“Playing two World Cup finals in a the first African side to reach a World involved in some excellent link
Les Bleus booked their place in a row is an incredible moment. We did a Cup semi-final had responded well to 7Kylian MBAPPE: Could have play in the final third for much of
second successive final with a 2-0 victory good job, it was hard, but we are in the falling behind to Hernandez’s neat finish scored early on; should have an hour.
over battling Morocco yesterday, leaving final,” said Hernandez to Italian station just five minutes in. done so later – or squared to
them just one win away from becoming RAI Sport. “We will work hard to win this Giroud. Started the second half 7Youssef EN-NESYRI: Always
the first team to retain the World Cup final. And Les Bleus boss Deschamps was with a great dribble down the left offering himself and fre-
since Brazil in 1962. proud of his team for overcoming a well- but had final pass at the end of it. quently making runs in, out and
“Now we have to think about the drilled opponent, even though France Involved in both goals. back in again to give France’s
Argentina are the side standing in final. I’m tired, but it’s nice to win a World were heavy favourites. defenders a tough time keeping
their way, with talisman Messi having Cup semi-final. Now let’s recover for 6Olivier GIROUD: track. Nothing much fell his way
inspired them to this point in his final Sunday. Messi doesn’t scare us, Deschamps said: “This victory arouses Magnificently galloped but great endeavour.
World Cup and many believing it is Argentina are an incredible team but we emotion and pride. Today was a very through to lash a strike against
written in the stars that he will finally lift have a few days to work.” important match. the post early. Didn’t really show SUBS: S Amallah – 7, Y Attiat-
the one major trophy to elude him in his good hold-up play in the second Allah – 7, Z Aboukhlal – 6, A
glittering career to date. France have their own talisman in “We’ve been together with the half. Hamdallah – 6, A Ezzalzouli – 7.
Kylian Mbappe – Messi’s PSG teammate players for a month now, it’s never easy
Hernandez – who scored one of – and he had a hand in France’s second and we’ve also had luck so far, the
France’s two goals in yesterday’s victory goal against Morocco as he showed players have been rewarded as a team
quick feet to evade defenders and saw and we’ll look for the title Sunday. It’s
wonderful”. – The Independent

Morocco went out their way 23theSUN ON FRIDAY | DECEMBER 16, 2022
* SPORTS

Atlas Lions should remember, once the hurt of this painful exit has passed, that they made history in Qatar

█ MARK CRITCHLEY Yet regardless of the identity of their Morocco’s defender Jawad El Yamiq
opponents, it feels impossible for this squad (centre) attempts a bicycle kick during the
OF ALL the semifinals in all the World that hails variously from Montreal to Madrid,
Cups in all of history, they walk into Bourg-de-Peage to Paris, Dronten to Huizen, Qatar 2022 World Cup semifinal match
this one. In the entirety of their 122- as well as Marrakesh, Fez and Casablanca, to against France at the Al-Bayt Stadium in Al
year history, France had never met play with anything other than intensity, energy
Morocco in a competitive fixture. and a singular drive of ambition. Khor, Doha yesterday. – AFPPIX

They couldn’t for the first 43 of those years, All that was on display again yesterday at
of course, because there was no such thing as the Al Bayt. You could see it in Jawad El Yamiq
the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, stretching to connect with the ball on an
which was only established at the end of the overhead kick, and in doing so almost scoring
French Protectorate in 1955. Pre- one of the greatest goals of any semifinal.
independence meetings were all friendlies, as
have been all the others since. You could see it in Sofyan Amrabat’s
fabulously violent challenge on Kylian Mbappe
Much has been made in this part of the at the start of the second half, that restored the
world of how fate has paired Morocco with tone of a no less ferocious first.
several former colonisers on their journey
through this tournament, and how that may You could see that too at the final whistle,
have pushed them further. There is perhaps a when all but a handful of Morocco’s players fell
truth in that. on their backs, hands clasped over their heads,
lamenting the end of the most remarkable

Winner Runner-up story at this World Cup.
Morocco went out but went out their way.
FIFA World Cup winners 1930 Uruguay 4-2 Argentina Host: Uruguay
1934 As England prepared to face France, we had
Eight separate nations have lifted the World 1938 Italy 2-1* Czechoslovakia Italy almost a full week of questions about how to
Cup since it began in 1930, all from the 1950 stop Mbappe.
football powerhouses of Europe and 1954 Italy 4-2 Hungary France
South America. 1958 Walid Regragui’s answer was “play all of
1962 Uruguay 2-1 Brazil Brazil your injured defenders”. Romain Saiss (thigh)
Germany (4 titles) 1966 and Noussair Mazraoui (hip) were both
Brazil (5) 1970 W. Germany 3-2 Hungary Switzerland expected to miss out but the only word needed
Italy (4) 1974 in those parentheses was “irrelevant”. They
1978 Brazil 5-2 Sweden Sweden started.
Argentina (2) 1982
1986 Brazil 3-1 Czechoslovakia Chile They were always going to. Nayef Aguerd
1990 (also thigh, also irrelevant) made it as far as the
1994 England 4-2* West Germany England warm-up but pulled out before kickoff,
1998 replaced by Achraf Dari.
2002 Brazil 4-1 Italy Mexico
2006 Aguerd was still, remarkably, the only player
2010 West Germany 2-1 Netherlands West Germany to score against Morocco at this tournament at
2014 that point, after his own goal against Canada in
2018 Argentina 3-1* Netherlands Argentina the final round of group games.

Finals TOP SCORES Italy 3-1 West Germany Spain That would last all of five minutes, Dari’s
8 Brazil have most block of an Mbappe shot bouncing into Theo
titles, Germany Argentina 3-2 West Germany Mexico Hernandez’s path. Perhaps Yassine Bono
7 have racked up thought the angle too narrow.
West Germany 1-0 Argentina Italy
most finals Perhaps all this rightful praise and
65 Brazil 0-0 (penalties 3-2) Italy United States goalkeeper of the tournament talk made him
feel a foot wider. In any case, failing to close
France 3-0 Brazil France Hernandez down quickly enough was his first
mistake all month.
Brazil 2-0 Germany South Korea/Japan
Yet the worst possible start did not feel like a
Italy 1-1 (penalties 5-3) France Germany disaster. Not inside the Al Bayt. It was hard to
keep count of the counter-attacks, the cut-
Spain 1-0* Netherlands South Africa backs, the moments of hesitation and
indecision inside the French penalty area that
Germany 1-0* Argentina Brazil may have produced the goal they needed to
respond to Hernandez’s opener.
France 4-2 Croatia Russia
If at any point in those moments that the
Source: FIFA *After extra time Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS next goal would be France’s, you would not
have believed it. Randal Kolo Muani appeared
Round of 16 Quarterfinals Quarterfinals Round of 16 from nowhere, moments after his introduction,
to make France’s passage safe. Yet their 2-0
Dec 3 11.00pm Dec 5 3.00am victory was not the story of this semifinal.

Netherlands 3 QF2 QF4 England 3 Some have scoffed at Morocco’s progress
USA 1 Senegal 0 through this tournament. After Spain’s defeat
Dec 10 3.00am Dec 11 3.00am in the last-16, Rodri claimed they “offered
absolutely nothing, without disrespecting
Netherlands 2 England 1 them”, while flagrantly disrespecting them.

Dec 4 3.00am *Argentina 2 Semifinal Semifinal France 2 Dec 4 11.00pm Portugal’s beaten players did not commend
their opponents but instead blamed the referee
Argentina 2 *Argentina win 4-3 France 3 for, of all things, a pro-Argentina agenda, as
on penalties though Morocco would be swept away if they
Australia 1 SF1 Dec 14 3.00am SF2 Dec 15 3.00am Poland 1 were to make the final against Lionel Messi
and his teammates.
Dec 5 11.00pm Argentina 3 FINAL France 2 Dec 6 11.00pm
If either had played with the fury, energy
*Croatia win 3-1 on penalties Croatia 0 Morocco 0 *Morocco win 3-0 on penalties and organisation of Regragui’s players, perhaps
they would have extended their stay in Qatar
Japan 1 QF1 Dec 18 11.00pm QF3 *Morocco 0 into this tournament’s final week.

1 Dec 9 11.00pm Dec 10 11.00pm Spain Perhaps they would have won the hearts
*Croatia 1 Morocco 1 not only of the local population in Qatar but
Argentina*Croatia France 0 also the millions watching at home.

Dec 6 3.00am Brazil 1 Portugal 0 Dec 7 3.00am Perhaps they might even have made the
semifinals, which should be considered no
Brazil 4 *Croatia win 4-2 Dec 17 Third-place playoff 11.00pm Portugal 6 small achievement for even the grandest
South Korea 1 on penalties footballing nations.
Croatia Morocco Switzerland 1
Instead, even in defeat, that achievement is
Top two from each group progress to knockout stage If scores level after 90 minutes, knockout stage matches go into extra-time. Matches remaining level decided on penalties Morocco’s, who once the pain has passed, will
recognise they have made history. – The
Independent

FRIDAY No regrets for
Regragui after
DECEMBER 16, 2022 France shatter
Morocco’s dream

█ MARK MANN-BRYANS

Bstleeuels Morocco’s Sofyan Amrabat (left) and France’s MOROCCO coach Walid Regragui insists he had no
Kylian Mbappe fight for the ball during the Qatar regrets after his decision to name captain Romain
Flu-hit France dug deep to Saiss and Nayef Aguerd in his starting line-up for
set up World Cup final 2022 World Cup semifinal match at the Al-Bayt their World Cup semifinal loss to France.
showdown, says Deschamps Stadium in Al Khor, Doha yesterday. – AFPPIX
Theo Hernandez struck early on but Morocco
█ MARK MANN-BRYANS temperatures have fallen a little bit, you have champions have players who will also require more than matched their illustrious opponents
air conditioning which is on all the time. special attention from Argentina. before substitute Randal Kolo Muani’s first France
DIDIER DESCHAMPS saw his goal secured a 2-0 win in the closing stages.
France side “dig deep” to beat “We are trying to be careful so it doesn’t “He is one of the best players in the world
Morocco and set up a World Cup spread and players have made great efforts and he has shown that, so of course we are There will be subplots aplenty on Sunday as
final against Argentina before out on the pitch and obviously their immune going to try and counter Messi’s threat and France face Argentina, Lionel Messi up against club-
revealing a number of ill players have had to systems suffer. stop him influencing the game and Argentina mate Kylian Mbappe at the forefront, but this was a
be isolated from the rest of his squad ahead will try and stop the influence of some of my night where Morocco proved their shock progression
of Sunday’s blockbuster clash. “Dayot Upamecano felt sick immediately players. into the last four was no fluke, going toe-to-toe with
after the (England) match – it happens when the reigning champions as well as having a strong
Lionel Messi and company may be you make such an effort, your body is “This Argentina side is different to the one penalty claimed turned down.
waiting at Lusail Stadium on Sunday night weakened and you are more prone to be we played four years ago.
but Les Bleus – who could become the first infected by these viruses. For the Morocco players and their energetic
nation since the revered Brazil side of 1962 to “We have two sides with a great deal of coach, this turned out to be one dream too far
retain their status as champions of the world “We are taking all necessary precautions, quality and it will be up to key players to having already beaten Belgium, Spain and Portugal –
– were pushed all the way before sealing a we are trying to make sure it doesn’t spread make a difference, maybe the team that ending the hopes of Eden Hazard, Sergio Busquets
hard-fought 2-0 win. but viruses are of course infectious and we makes fewest mistakes will win the game.” and Cristiano Ronaldo en route to a historic
have to take precautions against it. We semifinal.
Theo Hernandez struck early on but separated him from others and Adrien as While France will now begin preparations
Morocco, the first African semifinalists in well. to face Argentina, Deschamps admitted his Regragui was keen to reward the players who had
history, more than matched their illustrious team were pushed all the way by a Morocco claimed the scalps of Belgium, Spain and Portugal
opponents before substitute Randal Kolo “Kingsley Coman was also feverish this side who had already beaten Belgium, Spain but that plan backfired even before kickoff.
Muani’s first France goal settled matters in afternoon. Adrien was sick, he was a little bit and Portugal to reach the last four.
the closing stages. better this afternoon but he just wasn’t well West Ham defender Aguerd, who had been
enough so he stayed in the hotel, we have a “I’m always proud when I achieve a result struggling with a thigh injury, replaced by Achraf
While attention now turns to Sunday’s four-day rest so he should be better and like this and it is great to have got through to Dari after the warm-up, while Saiss limped off 20
showpiece final, Deschamps will be keen for available for Sunday.” the final, it wasn’t an easy victory,” he added. minutes into the tie.
a clean bill of health after Adrien Rabiot was
left at the team hotel instead of travelling to France came out on top the last time the “We showed our quality and experience “Until the last minute we weren’t sure, we waited
Al Bayt Stadium – while Dayot Upamecano two nations met, Kylian Mbappe scoring and team spirit. We had to dig deep, even in until the last minute to see if Romain could play. He
and Kingsley Coman have also been twice to outshine club-mate Messi in a the challenging moments in the match and is such an important player for us, our captain,” he
struggling with illness. thrilling 4-3 win en route to the title in Russia as coach I’m very proud and pleased with my said, admitting his squad were on their “last legs”.
four years ago. players.
“We’ve had a few cases of flu-like “Nayef was recovering from flu and wanted to
symptoms,” said Deschamps. “In Doha, Deschamps has been impressed by Messi “I don’t really think about myself but of play as well, I thought it was best to play with three
as he aims to add World Cup success to his course I appreciate we have had this success defenders so they didn’t have too much to run at.
INSIDE glittering career but feels the defending and I’m pleased for them.” – The
Independent “We made a lot of mistakes and then Romain had
to go off and we changed to a four-man defence and
Verstappen Atlas Lions Stellar Morocco actually played better.
to the Max kings of French went out
page 19 Africa reservist their way “I have no regrets about the decision. Nayef’s
page 20 page 22 page 23 absence was difficult and all of these little things
meant we got off to quite a poor start, you learn
from your mistakes, I do as well. If all our squad was
fit we could have caused them even more problems.

“At a World Cup, this was one step too far, not in
terms of quality or tactics but physically, we had too
many players at 60-70%.”

Regragui believes Morocco have helped the
imagine of African football on a global stage and
that he will now be cheering on France in Sunday’s
final.

“We are going to support them (France) now,” he
added. “The whole world is proud of this Moroccan
team. We showed desire, played hard and have given
a good image of Morocco and of African football.

“We were representing our country and our
continent. People already respected us but I think
they respect us more now.

“Congratulations to France. I said before the
match, they are a very good side and they were well-
placed to win the game but in spite of all the injuries
we had, the tiredness, we pulled out all the stops,
gave them everything, caused them problems and
that is already quite an achievement.

“You can’t win a World Cup with miracles, you
need to win it through hard work and that is what
we will do, we will keep working.”

Regragui, born in France, was proud that his team
had made their presence felt on the biggest stage.

“We gave the maximum, that’s the most
important thing,” he said. “The most important thing
is to have given a good image, to have shown the
world that Moroccan football exists and that we have
beautiful supporters.

“To reach the very, very highest level, to win a
World Cup, we still have to work but we are not very
far away.” – The Independent/AFP

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