THE SUN 2 FEBRUARI 2023 KHAMIS

PETALING JAYA: Budget hotels are facing difficulty in changing their business model despite losing customers and profits to Airbnb operators. This is because they have to follow various government regulations, said Malaysia Budget and Business Hotel Association (MyBHA) president Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel. He said the association has been asking the government to regulate Airbnb businesses so that they operate on a level playing field. However, its requests have not been successful. Airbnb Inc is a US-based company founded in 2008, and operates an online marketplace for “short-term homestays and experiences”. It acts as a broker and charges a commission from each booking. “Airbnb operators have an advantage over budget hotels because they do not have to collect fees such as the 6% Sales and Service Tax, which adds to the cost of a room,” he told theSun, adding that it was only recently that the operators were required to collect the RM10 Tourism Tax per listing per night. He said he has no idea how they plan to remit the RM10 tax to the government. “Airbnb operators have had a major negative impact on budget hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Kota Kinabalu and Johor Baru. They are lucky as they can operate from anywhere, killing the budget hotel business in the process. “The sad part is some government agencies don’t realise Airbnbs do not need a licence and are not regulated, and are promoting them.” Sri Ganesh said the law is clear in that a person cannot operate a business out of a house and can only do so in commercial areas. But until now, an Airbnb operator can open up a room in his/her house to do business. “How can budget hotels challenge such a disruptive business, when Airbnb operators continue to eat into our operations?” He cited the “white bed linen rule” as an example of the many regulations imposed on budget hotels, which add to operating costs for MyBHA members. “The use of white linens serves to show how clean the beds are, but Airbnb operators are not required to follow this rule,” he said. In October 2020, the Federal Court ruled that management corporations (MC) and joint management bodies (JMB) could ban shortterm rentals through their own house rules. In January the following year, the commissioner of buildings under the Penang Island City Council released a letter stating that the operations of short-term accommodation must first get approvals from the respective building JMB and MC. The management would need to conduct an annual general meeting to seek approvals from unit owners, where 75% of residents must give their consent. In Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, some local authorities have come up with new ways to regulate short-term rentals. Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), for instance, encourages property owners to register their residential properties online. With thousands of condominiums scattered across the Klang Valley, DBKL has delegated its powers to residential management bodies when it comes to short-term rental regulations. An Airbnb operator in Kuala Lumpur, who asked to be identified only as Daniel, said he has six units registered on an Airbnb website and there is a big demand for the units, especially during weekends and long public holidays. “My units are based on profit-sharing with the owners and most of the units are in serviced apartments since there are some JMB rules which apply to residential units but not to serviced units. “But still, I have to spell out the rules to oBudget hotels facing losses due to unfair competition from Airbnb operators, which are largely unregulated █ BY RAJVINDER SINGH [email protected] Regulatory issues TELLING IT AS IT IS ON THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2023 No. 8200 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my FLYING COLOURS ... A parakeet fetches a ringgit note held up by a child from the audience during a show at Zoo Negara yesterday, as parents took advantage of the Federal Territory Day break to have family outings. – BERNAMAPIC boarders renting them to ensure there are no complaints because some of the units in the building have been bought by families who live there.” Daniel added that the lack of rules makes it easier for him to operate his business, which he said is profitable. INSIDE Smart city plan for FT by 2030 2 page Eateries join govt initiative to provide cheap meals 3 page

2 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Smart city plan for federal territories by 2030 KUALA LUMPUR: The government aims to turn the federal territories into smart cities by 2030. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it is in line with the concept of Malaysia Madani, which also emphasises the aspect of sustainability, with the concept of green city and smart city. “The Federal Territories Department has also drawn up a development agenda in a sustainable, livable and smart manner. “Among other programmes that have been drawn up are the use of electric buses in Kuala Lumpur, Wangsa Maju as a pilot low-carbon oDevelopment agenda drawn up in sustainable, livable and smart manner, in line with Malaysia Madani concept, says Anwar city, additional installation of CCTV in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, and the installation of WiFi in people housing and public housing projects in Labuan,” Anwar said in his loyalty speech at the investiture in conjunction with the 2023 Federal Territory Day at Istana Negara yesterday, Bernama reported. Anwar added that based on the federal territories’ urban sustainability achievements measured through the Malaysia Urban Indicators Network by the Town and Country Planning Department, the three federal territories were expected to achieve an excellent sustainable level in 2022. He also said apart from that, flood mitigation efforts will be continued in line with the plan that has been prepared. “I strongly believe that the Federal Territories Department, Kuala Lumpur City Hall and agencies will continue to move as a team to administer and manage the progress and development of the federal territories. “I am determined to ensure that the federal territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan are administered in the best way so that the benefits of prosperity and peace can be enjoyed by the people of diverse races and cultures,” he said. Mohamad Sabu awarded ‘Datuk Seri’ title KUALA LUMPUR: Agriculture and Food Security Minister Mohamad Sabu headed the list of 164 recipients who were conferred federal awards, medals and honours by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah at Istana Negara yesterday. Also present at the investiture, held in conjunction with the 2023 Federal Territory Day, were the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail as well as Cabinet ministers. Mohamad Sabu was conferred the Seri Mahkota Wilayah (SMW) award, which carries the title “Datuk Seri”, Bernama reported. The Federal Territories Department said in a statement the other six SMW recipients were Prime Minister’s Department senior deputy secretary-general Datuk Seri Sollehuddin Alyubi Zakaria, International Trade and Industry Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Malaysian ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Datuk Seri Ahmad Fadil Shamsuddin, Air Force deputy chief Lt Jen Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris, Orando Holdings Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Seri Dr Eng Wei Chun and Amechanus Holdings Sdn Bhd executive director Datuk Seri Lawrence Yeo Chua Poh. Meanwhile, 15 individuals received the Panglima Mahkota Wilayah (PMW) award, which carries the title “Datuk”. Among them were the Prime Minister’s Department Sabah and Sarawak Affairs Division secretary Datuk Toisin Gantor, Agriculture and Food Security Ministry deputy secretarygeneral (policy) Datuk Azah Hanim Ahmad and Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Azmi Abu Kassim. InvestKL CEO Datuk Muhammad Azmi Zulkifli, KLCC (Holdings) Sdn Bhd group CEO Datuk Md Shah Mahmood, UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk K. Ravindran and UDA Holdings The King and Queen at Istana Negara yesterday, accompanied by Anwar and Wan Azizah. – BERNAMAPIC Sdn Bhd president Datuk Sr Mohd Salem Kailany were also conferred the PMW award. Several sportsmen also received the PMW award in recognition of their contribution to the country, namely former national footballer Datuk Lim Teong Kim, former national bowling queen Datuk Shalin Zulkifli, bodybuilding athlete Datuk Mohd Syarul Azman Mahen Abdullah and former Malaysia Karate Federation coaching director Datuk P. Arivalagan. Sixteen individuals were awarded the Johan Mahkota Wilayah, 19 the Kesatria Mahkota Wilayah, 15 the Ahli Mahkota Wilayah and 92 received the Pangkuan Mahkota Wilayah medal. Rural development programmes must be relevant to community: Zahid KUALA LUMPUR: The government needs to examine the effectiveness of all rural development programmes that are being implemented to ensure they are relevant and meet the needs of the current target group, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development minister, said this was because the population ratio in rural areas had decreased from 70% in the 1960s to 30% today. “Those in rural areas should be engaged, because they need communications, infrastructure, TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) and education. “We should make all programmes relevant to the target group and not just cater to the taste of ministers, because ministers come and go,” he said during the Bernama TV Ruang Bicara programme on Tuesday. Ahmad Zahid also spoke on the importance of coordination among the various ministries when implementing TVET programmes to avoid duplication to ensure cost-effectiveness. – Bernama ‘Young scouts need leadership knowledge’ KANGAR: The young generation of scouts, who are still in school, need to be exposed to leadership knowledge to further improve their competency, said the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullai. The Raja Muda said the leadership training must also be in line with the current developments in education. “I hope attention will be paid to the development of the scout camp in Jalan Sungai Batu Pahat,” he added. The Perlis Scout Association has been based at the camp for more than 50 years. “Due to lack of infrastructure and limited maintenance, the place cannot be fully optimised to carry out activities. This is a concern as this could endanger users at the camp,” Tuanku Syed Faizuddin said during the presentation of stars and medals to the association on Tuesday. – Bernama Zambry holds dialogue with heads of missions PUTRAJAYA: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir on Tuesday held a dialogue session with more than 80 high commissioners and foreign ambassadors to Malaysia from various countries and continents. Zambry said he was told by the heads of missions that this was the first time a foreign minister held a meeting with all foreign embassies and had an open dialogue with them. Zambry said Singapore’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Vanu Gopala Menon expected Malaysia to continue to be active in voicing opinions and views at the global level. “The heads of missions also hoped Malaysia’s relationship with their countries would be enhanced,” he said in a statement yesterday. – Bernama Move to use idle land for modern agriculture farms SEREMBAN: The federal government, through government-linked companies (GLC) under the Finance Ministry, is looking to rent idle state land to implement modern agricultural projects. Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Mazlan said this is part of the government’s efforts to ensure food security. “The federal government is looking for idle state land and the GLC, with sufficient financial resources, can develop such lands,” he said after a dialogue session with the Negeri Sembilan government. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun was also present. He said the focus of Budget 2023 will be on issues such as cost of living, employment, strengthening the economy, implementing institutional reforms, disaster management and narrowing the development gap among states. – Bernama

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Minister: Concert highlights Malaysia-Singapore ties KUALA LUMPUR: The Muzika Ekstravaganza concert to be held on Saturday proves the strong ties between Malaysia and Singapore, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He said the programme will be the closing for the sixth meeting of the Joint Working Committee on Information and Communications for both countries, with Malaysia hosting it this time. “The concert has been held almost every year either in Singapore or in Malaysia. This year, in conjunction with the meeting to be held, we will celebrate the presence of our friends from Singapore by holding a Muzika Ekstravaganza concert. “I hope that viewers will get to watch it live, and together we can enjoy the performance of talents from Malaysia and Singapore. A strong relationship will help us generate economic growth to achieve a brighter and better future for both countries,” he said on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme on Tuesday night. The concert will be held at 8.30pm at Auditorium Perdana in Angkasapuri and will be broadcast live on two stations, namely TV2 and Suria, as well as online on RTMKlik and Toggle. The theme is “Duo Hits”, featuring a combination of popular artistes such as Nabila Huda, Stacy, Hazama, Hael Husaini and others, including rock veteran Datuk Ramli Sarip, a Singaporean who moved to Malaysia. Meanwhile, on the meeting scheduled to be held on Saturday, Fahmi said the focus of discussion will be on the Malaysia-Singapore memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the fields of personal data protection, cyber security and digital economy that was signed in the republic last Monday. “There are several data processing centres in Kulai and Sedenak in Johor, and we need to see how these centres can be utilised with the cooperation of Singapore,” he added. On Feb 19, 2016, Malaysia and Singapore signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of information and communication, and it was agreed that the two countries will alternately host the annual meeting. – Bernama Dissolution of Kedah assembly after June 18: MB ALOR SETAR: Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor has hinted that the state assembly will be dissolved after June 18 to pave way for the state polls. He said this was based on several factors, including the fasting month, Aidilfitri celebration, the Haj season and the Aidiladha celebration prior to that. “The fasting month and Raya (Aidilfitri) is in March and April. After that, we have people going for the Haj, so we have to wait for them to return, and on June 18, we have the Sultan of Kedah’s birthday celebration. Dissolution of the state assembly can only be done after that,” he told reporters at the state-level Chinese New Year celebration on Tuesday night. Muhammad Sanusi said PAS will decide on the dissolution dates for state assemblies in the three PAS-led governments, namely Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu, and will not discuss the matter with states under Pakatan Harapan. However, the PAS election director expressed hope that the PH-administered states of Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan will dissolve their respective state assemblies the same time as PAS so that the elections can be held simultaneously. “There have been informal discussions with other states, like Negeri Sembilan. I asked the Menteri Besar (Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun). He said it is not his intention to dissolve the state assembly in May as its mandate expires in June. “So, like it or not, the Negeri Sembilan state assembly has to be dissolved in May or at the latest May 31. So, if the state polls are to be held simultaneously, they have to be held within 60 days, which is between June 1 and July 31,” he added. – Bernama No M’sians affected in Peru protests KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Embassy in Peru said it was closely monitoring the latest development in the South American nation, adding that no Malaysians were affected in the current protests which were taking place in certain parts of the country, including in the capital city of Lima. The embassy said it has a contingency plan in view of the current situation, and was monitoring all perspectives in case it has to activate the plan. “As of date, all Malaysians in Peru are safe and we have been in touch with them from time to time. “Malaysians in Peru are advised to be vigilant, avoid areas affected by demonstrations and protests,” said the embassy. – Bernama Johor keen to enter Dubai market JOHOR BARU: The state is planning to showcase products by local entrepreneurs that have potential to penetrate the market and gain a foothold in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Human Resources Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said the move follows the success of three homegrown companies, namely Daily Fresh Foods Sdn Bhd, Power Root Malaysia and Rushoe Coating and Insulation Sdn Bhd, which have long been established in the UAE. “Johor has potential, and under the leadership of Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, who is pushing the Maju Johor 2030 agenda, we want investors to invest in the state,” he said yesterday. – Bernama Eateries join govt initiative to provide cheap meals PETALING JAYA: Many local companies have embraced community service as a prominent thrust in helping the low-income group survive during the current hard times, with some joining the government in its aid efforts. Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Ameer Ali Mydin said since the public have been complaining about the high cost of food, Mydin has agreed to join Menu Rahmah, a government initiative to help ease the burden of the low-income group. He said Mydin and all those operating in its food courts will serve meals consisting meat, vegetable, rice and a drink at RM4.90. The initiative is not limited to lunch but A customer being served a Menu Rahmah meal at Mydin Tunjong Hypermarket in Kota Baru yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC oLow-income group to benefit from Menu Rahmah dishes offered at Mydin food courts █ BYRAJVINDER SINGH [email protected] breakfast as well, costing RM2.50, to ensure those in the group can have a proper meal. “This is not going to be for one or two days but for three months. Food court operators are also making a sacrifice as a normal meal is in the (price) region of RM9. At RM4.90, their profit margin will be lower. “It will be difficult to reduce the price of essential goods as this has been fixed by the government. For example, a bag of 5kg rice costs RM13 and our profit is only 50 sen. It will be difficult to sell it any lower than the government-set price.” He said Mydin is considering how it can help the B40 group to keep their spending cost down during these difficult times. For instance, Mydin may start a “Back to School Rahmah” programme, where parents may be able to buy a set of school uniforms, shoes and a bag for RM100. Malaysian Muslim Restaurant Owners Association (Presma) president Datuk Jawahar Ali Taib Khan said the Menu Rahmah initiative, which involves around 4,500 of its members, is one way the restaurateurs can give back to the people. Jawahar noted that the actual cost is RM9, with the food costing RM7 and drink RM2. However, the restaurateurs are willing to absorb the difference even if they make a loss as they realise the need to help the low-income group during these hard times. “We at Presma want to play our part in helping the community. It is not always about profit. The government has not set a time frame before Menu Rahmah is to be discontinued. It could be six months, a year or longer, but Presma members will continue to serve the menu as long as they are required to do so.” He said his restaurant has served 40 Menu Rahmah meals since it was launched on Tuesday. According to Jawahar, restaurateurs cannot choose who should be given the meal and as long as a customer requests for it, he will be served. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said around 12,000 restaurants have begun offering Menu Rahmah, including those affiliated with the Malaysian Indian Restaurant Owners Association, Presma, Malaysia Singapore Coffee Shop Proprietors General Association and Mydin supermarket outlets nationwide.

4 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Psychiatrist: 1.28m M’sians suffering from schizophrenia oSharp increase in number of patients attributable to stress of coping with life due to impact of Covid-19 pandemic PETALING JAYA: About four out of every 100, or some 1.28 million Malaysians, are suffering from schizophrenia, and this does not account for those who have yet to be diagnosed, said psychiatrist Dr Chow Soon Ken. Chow, who is a resident psychiatrist at Hummingbird Psychological Services, a private mental health clinic, said schizophrenia is a long-standing and recurring psychiatric illness, which affects the perception, thoughts, feelings, behaviour and daily functioning of the affected individual. “Around four per 100 individuals in Malaysia or some 1.28 million are officially diagnosed with schizophrenia. However, the number is likely to be much higher as many remain undiagnosed. The risk of an individual having schizophrenia increases if a family member has it.” He said the most effective treatment for schizophrenia is a combination of medication known as anti-psychotics and psychosocial therapy. Psychosocial therapy may help to normalise thought patterns. Learning to cope with stress and identifying early warning signs Errant travel agencies to lose licences KUCHING: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry will take firm action by revoking the licence of travel agencies if they are found to be flouting the rules, its minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said yesterday. He said the ministry has conducted an investigation into the issue claiming that some local travel agencies were buying up flight tickets in bulk. “I have asked Deputy Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan to investigate this and hold discussions with travel agents. The investigation was completed on Tuesday but I have not yet had the chance to meet him and get further details.” Tiong said he would issue a statement once he has all the relevant information. – Bernama Covid-19 patient admissions up 6.3% Guests at a recent charity event held in conjunction with Chinese New Year tossing ‘Yee Sang’. of relapse can help people with schizophrenia manage their illnesses. Such intervention consists of psychoeducation, counselling, psychological intervention and functional rehabilitation. These are the key components for recovery from schizophrenia. He said public perception towards those with schizophrenia has much room for improvement. “Stigma and bias are still largely present in the community, due to a lack of knowledge and misconceptions towards schizophrenia and mental health issues overall.” He said the number of patients with schizophrenia increased dramatically since the pandemic due to the stress of coping with life under Covid-19. “In my experience, the number of patients with schizophrenia has increased since the pandemic. The pandemic represents a major stressor, which affects many domains of our life such as our health, finances and relationships. “Schizophrenia usually sets in when there is an occurrence of major discriminations. With schizophrenia, people often think that I’m crazy because I hear voices.” She said movies and the media have made people think that schizophrenia is a “crazy-man’s disease” when in actuality it is just like any other disease that requires medication to manage the symptoms. “For people with schizophrenia, medication is very important and must be taken daily. This is because schizophrenia affects the brain in more ways than one. Therefore, one must take the medication and trust your psychiatrist and therapist. “Aside from that, those with schizophrenia are encouraged to undergo psychosocial therapy.” She hopes more people will become aware of schizophrenia and how to treat their loved ones without judgement or discrimination. RM1 million CNY cheer for 80 welfare organisations KUALA LUMPUR: Da Ma Cai recently kick-started the Chinese New Year celebrations with its RM1 million Annual Community Aid charity programme, that provides financial assistance to residents, trainers and members of 80 charitable organisations. The recent launch at Ti-Ratana Welfare Society saw aid presented to the society and other beneficiaries located in the Klang Valley and Pahang. In total, 30 charitable organisations from the Klang Valley received donations amounting to RM380,000 while four organisations in Pahang received RM40,000 during the event. In the northern region, 24 charitable organisations located in Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak will receive financial aid worth a total of RM300,000. As for the southern region, 22 charity homes in Negeri Sembilan, Malacca and Johor will get aid worth RM280,000 in total. Presentation ceremonies will be held in the northern and southern regions to give out the donations. The event will be held at the Johor Cheshire Home on Feb 3 and Rumah Sejahtera Permatang Tinggi on Feb 8 respectively. Ti-Ratana Welfare Society founder and adviser Datuk K. Sri Dhammaratana said, “as Buddhists, we focus on finding peace and happiness through love and compassion. Our religion emphasises giving to others and this is open to everyone who wishes to KUALA LUMPUR: Admissions of Covid-19 patients to health facilities per 100,000 people increased 6.3% in the fourth epidemiological week 2023 (ME4/2023) from Jan 22 to 28 compared with the week before. Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said admissions of patients in categories one and two to public hospitals rose by 20% from ME3/2023, while no changes were reported in categories three, four and five. “The utilisation rates of noncritical and ICU beds also decreased by 1% in ME4/2023.” He said there was a drop in positive cases seen by Covid-19 Assessment Centres (CAC) nationwide, but the number of cases referred by CAC to hospitals increased by 84.6%. Malaysia’s cumulative Covid-19 infections from Jan 25, 2020 to ME4/2023 stood at 5,035,871, while cumulative recoveries stood at 4,989,819 cases. He added that the cumulative total for Covid-19 fatalities stood at 36,940 cases and the total number of clusters was 7,170, with five active clusters. As for ME4/2023, the number of recoveries fell by 35.3% from 2,088 to 1,350 cases, new infections dropped by 8.5% from 2,379 to 2,177 cases, while Covid-19 fatalities declined by 66.7% from 24 cases to eight. Meanwhile, the surveillance at sentinel locations nationwide found 19 influenza-like illness Covid-19 positive samples, while no severe acute respiratory infection samples tested positive for Covid-19. He said the Health Ministry would continue to monitor the development of infections in the country and abroad through information obtained from the World Health Organisation and the authorities of countries in the region. – Bernama █ BYNURIN ABDULLAH [email protected] Wild elephants causing jitters at Orang Asli settlement GUA MUSANG: The Orang Asli community in Pos Brooke here is anxious, as wild elephants roaming near the settlement are becoming more brazen and starting to approach the homes of residents. Reingil Rajis Angah, 48, said an adult elephant entered the village last week and damaged the wall of a house in Kampung Liak. “The incident occurred at around 3am. The elephant smashed the house wall, stole a mattress, and ate it. At the time of the incident, the homeowner’s son was sleeping on the mattress. However, he was able to escape. “The elephants destroyed our crops and are too close to our homes. So, we are worried about our safety.” – Bernama stress in life, especially if the illness runs in the family or those with pre-existing mental illness.” He expressed hope that the public would learn to be more understanding towards individuals with schizophrenia and help them in their recovery and minimise any stigma or bias. A schizophrenia patient, who declined to be named, said having the illness is difficult as not many people understand the symptoms and conditions associated with it. She was first diagnosed with schizophrenia at the age of 19 and was given multiple medications to suppress the symptoms. “When the hallucinations and voices appear to overwhelm me, that’s when I wonder if this illness has a cure because it is very challenging. “Having any kind of mental health issue comes with its own set of contribute in any way they can to us and other charities. “People can show their compassion through financial donations or volunteering their time and services. By being kind to others, we can create a more peaceful world.” Meanwhile, Da Ma Cai managing director Datuk Seri Tan Kong Han said its nationwide aid programme is an initiative that aims to support sustainable development in communities across the country. “Partnership is key to achieving such sustainable development goals, so, we encourage charitable organisations to come together to share their experiences and tackle common issues involving manpower and rising cost.” He said with its initiative, Da Ma Cai can mobilise existing and additional resources to come up with effective solutions that could address the challenges faced by charities. He also said through such collaborations charitable organisations, particularly smaller ones, can provide an impactful outcome that is greater than what they could have done on their own. William Chang, the president of Persatuan Kebajikan Rumah Kanak-Kanak Angels Kuala Lumpur, which is one of the beneficiaries, said charitable organisations value the financial aid provided by Da Ma Cai. “The presentation ceremony serves as a fantastic platform for us to network with other charitable organisations in learning and being inspired with new ideas and approaches.”

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Rise in number of flood evacuees in Johor, Sabah KUALA LUMPUR: The number of flood evacuees in Johor and Sabah rose slightly yesterday morning, according to the State Disaster Management Committee secretariat. In Johor, 1,381 evacuees are taking shelter at 17 relief centres in four districts, compared with 1,379 at 8pm on Tuesday. Batu Pahat recorded the highest number of evacuees of 921, followed by Kota Tinggi with 223, Mersing with 147 and Segamat with 90, the committee said. The weather in the state was sunny, except for the Mersing district, which was reported to be cloudy. In Sabah, the number of flood evacuees rose to 599, housed at 13 centres in three districts, compared with 556 on Tuesday night. The Sabah committee said Telupid has the highest number of evacuees with 443, who were evacuated to nine relief centres. “A total of 111 people were moved to three centres in Paitan, while 45 were taking shelter at a centre in Lahad Datu,” the committee said. It added that the number of evacuees is expected to increase in Telupid and remain unchanged in Paitan and Lahad Datu. – Bernama Five in family among seven held in RM1.5m syabu bust KEPALA BATAS: Police arrested seven men, including five family members, and seized 41.81kg of syabu, which was packed in Chinese tea packets, with a value of RM1.5 million, during raids in Pokok Sena and Bertam last week. Penang police chief Datuk Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the raids were carried out following tip-offs from the public and intelligence by police. “In the first raid at a house in Pokok Sena at 8.45pm on Saturday, police arrested five family members aged between 26 and 54, and confiscated 11 plastic packets of Chinese tea and two transparent packets containing 11,448.70g of syabu, worth RM412,112. “The police also seized equipment, believed to be used to repackage the syabu.” Mohd Shuhaily said based on a preliminary investigation, the house, which belonged to one of the family members, was used as a place to store and repackage the drug. He added that the second raid was conducted at 8am last Sunday at a kiosk in Bertam, where a trader and an unemployed man were arrested, and police seized 30 packets of Chinese tea containing 30,358g of syabu, worth RM1.09 million. “The drug was found in a car, which was parked there.” He said following the arrest, police also seized three cars and RM1,000. He also said among those arrested, five tested positive for drugs and five had records for crime and drug-related offences. All of them are in remand until tomorrow for investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act. – Bernama Mohd Shuhaily (centre) showing some of the of syabu seized at a press conference at the North Seberang Perai police headquarters. – BERNAMAPIC Selangor reports 44% jump in road crashes during CNY SHAH ALAM: A total of 4,042 traffic collisions were recorded in Selangor during Op Selamat 19 in conjunction with Chinese New Year from Jan 18 to 27. Selangor acting police chief Datuk S. Sasikala Devi said the number of cases increased by 43.8% compared with last year, when there were 2,810. She said 17 fatal incidents were recorded while two victims sustained serious injuries and there were 25 cases of minor injuries. “The three hotspots are Petaling Jaya with 527 cases, Shah Alam with 471 and Kajang with 433. “The increase in cases shows that the people are still careless,” she said, adding that 28,792 summonses have been issued in Selangor. She also said the number of summonses issued has decreased by 44.4%, which was 22,691 compared with Op Selamat 17, which recorded 51,753. “The most common offences committed include exceeding the speed limit, cutting at double lines, using mobile phones while driving, beating traffic lights and misusing the emergency lanes.” Sasikala Devi said a total of 357 criminal cases were recorded at 16 locations in Selangor, of which 280 were property offences and the rest were cases of violence. She added that about 500 police personnel would be mobilised to ensure order and safety throughout the Thaipusam festival at the Sri Subramaniar Swamy Temple in Batu Caves. “They will be stationed in five zones with 45 checkpoints at the temple premises.” – Bernama ‘Dress code guidelines cannot be used to deny entry’ PETALING JAYA: Moral policing of what women wear goes against the Malaysia Madani concept, which focuses on improving the quality of services to people. Hence, those who deny people access to public facilities based on attire, need to be hauled up and warned to stop such discriminatory practices, said NGOs. All Women’s Action Society senior programme officer Lilian Kok said there is no statutory dress code that dictates one should be decently dressed. “Each department is given discretion to only advise the public on the dress code during official visits. “Whatever that is considered to be unofficial dress code is just a guideline, and cannot be enforced as law. This should be made clear to all personnel in the civil service regardless of rank, and be done oPublic facilities such as police station are places with duty to serve and assist in matters involving emergencies, life and death, says NGO chief █ BYNURIN ABDULLAH [email protected] Three SPM candidates flown to school for exam MERSING: Three Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia candidates from Kampung Orang Asli Punan were flown to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Nitar in a Fire and Rescue Department aircraft on Tuesday to sit for the examination. Its acting director Mohd Rizal Buang said Norfaizal Selamat, Jefzulkiflie Addy and Christie Maurinissca Clay, all aged 18, were flown in a helicopter. He said the three candidates were supposed to sit for their Science practical test on Jan 30, but it had to be postponed as the road connecting to their settlement area was still flooded. “After consideration, the school agreed to allow the candidates to sit for their papers yesterday,” he said, adding that they would be staying at the school hostel throughout the examination period. – Bernama through briefings or in the form of policy that is accessible to them,” she said. Kok was commenting on a recent incident, where a woman was denied entry to the Kajang police station to lodge a report even though she was wearing Bermuda shorts, the length of which was below her knees. The woman claimed she had to change her clothing before entry was allowed. When contacted, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri declined to comment on the incident. Kok added that the public should not be denied access to a police station because public facilities are prioritised as places with a duty to serve and assist in matters involving emergencies, life and death. “There is an expectation that these establishments deliver quality services, and not to preach or admonish them on their choice of attire,” she said. When asked if moral policing is a common practice, Kok said “it is frustratingly reflective of a long- standing obsession by certain segments of society to control what women wear”. She also said it allows the public and the community to cast unjustifiable judgements about an individual’s worth, character, morality and capabilities based on attire. Women’s Aid Organisation head of campaigns Louise Tan said dress codes should not matter when entering public facilities such as police stations. “Police personnel should not have denied her the right to make a report because of what she was wearing. We are very concerned over the implication that a woman could also be denied entry when wanting to report a serious crime.” Tan said moral policing of women’s attire serves only to control their bodies and exclude them from public spaces, which would in turn limit their participation in public life as well. “Frontline police personnel must receive regular training on gender sensitivity to better serve everyone,” she said.

6 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Australia recovers radioactive capsule CANBERRA: Australian authorities yesterday found a radioactive capsule smaller than a coin that was lost in the vast Outback after nearly a week-long search along a 1,400km stretch of highway. The Caesium-137 capsule was discovered when a vehicle travelling at 70kph equipped with specialist oOfficial says investigation and prosecutions to be considered detection equipment picked up the radiation, according to officials from the state of Western Australia. The search team then used portable detection equipment to find the capsule, which was located about 2m from the side of the road, they said. “I want to emphasise this is an extraordinary result,” Western Australia Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson said in a news conference. “When you consider the scope of the research area, locating this object was a monumental challenge, the search groups have quite literally found the needle in the haystack. “It’s a good result and I think West Australians can sleep better tonight.” The military was verifying the capsule and it would be taken to a secure facility in the city of Perth today, he said. Officials from Western Australia’s emergency response department, defence authorities, radiation specialists and others have been combing the stretch of highway for the tiny capsule that was lost in transit more than two weeks ago. The radioactive capsule was part of a gauge used to measure the density of iron ore feed from Rio Tinto’s Gudai-Darri mine in the state’s remote Kimberley region. The ore was being taken to a facility in the suburbs of Perth – a distance longer than the length of Great Britain. Officials said the capsule apparently fell off a truck and landed on the side of the road, adding that it was unlikely there will be contamination in the area. The silver capsule, 6mm in diameter and 8mm long, contains Caesium-137, which emits radiation equal to 10 X-rays per hour. People had been told to stay at least 5m away from the capsule if they spotted it, because exposure could cause radiation burns or radiation sickness. However, driving past the capsule was believed to be relatively low risk, akin to taking an X-ray. Western Australia’s Chief Health Officer Andrew Robertson said the capsule was found in a remote area far from any community and it was unlikely anyone had been exposed to radiation. He said there would be an investigation and prosecutions would be considered under state radiation safety laws. The maximum penalty for failing to safely handle radioactive substances is A$1,000 (RM3,020) and A$50 per day the offence continues, although the state government said yesterday it was considering a change to laws to allow for bigger penalties. – Agencies Xi vows to help consumers spend ‘without worries’ BEIJING: China will establish a long-term mechanism for boosting consumption so that consumers will have stable income and can spend “without worries”, President Xi Jinping was quoted as saying by state media yesterday. China must resolutely implement a strategic plan for expanding domestic demand, alongside efforts to push supply-side reforms, state media quoted Xi as saying in a study session of the Politburo, a top decision-making body of the ruling Communist Party. “We will establish and improve a long-term mechanism to expand residents’ consumption, so that residents can consume with stable incomes, dare to spend without worrying about the future, and have a strong desire to spend in a good consumption environment.” Since the agenda-setting Central Economic Work Conference in December, top policymakers have repeatedly vowed to focus on bolstering consumption to drive an economic recovery this year. The world’s second-largest economy grew 3% last year, far below the official target of around 5.5% and hitting one of its worst rates in nearly half a century. Growth is expected to rebound to around 5% this year, after Beijing ditched harsh Covid-19 restrictions in December. – Reuters B R I E F SSECOND INDONESIA TIGER ATTACK IN DAYS JAKARTA: A Sumatran tiger attacked and injured two farmers in a small Indonesian town yesterday, the second such attack in days, as officials vowed to capture the big cat or cats responsible. The latest attack took place in a protected forest reserve in Aceh province at about 2am. Yesterday’s attack left both victims with serious injuries to their heads, hands and feet. “We will capture and relocate the tiger,“ Aceh conservation agency head Agus Rianto said, adding that the farmers had been working illegally inside the protected area. Soldiers, conservation officials and rangers were deployed for the search effort after a tiger attacked four locals in the same reserve on Saturday, leaving one in critical condition. There was no indication the attacks were by the same tiger. – AFP NATO HAILS JAPAN PLAN TO BOOST DEFENCE SPENDING TOKYO: Nato’s chief yesterday applauded Japan’s plan to double its defence spending, saying the pledge reflected the country’s resolve for greater security involvement in a volatile world. Jens Stoltenberg said Japan’s renewed focus on security made the nation “even more” of a partner “for peace”. “I am glad that Japan is planning (a military budget) to reach the Nato benchmark of 2% of GDP devoted to defence,” he said. For decades, Japan has capped military spending at 1% of GDP but last year, the government approved a new security strategy, including plans to increase defence spending to 2% of GDP by 2027. – AFP Indonesian residents file climate case against top cement maker GENEVA: Several Indonesian residents have submitted a legal complaint to a Swiss court against the world’s top cement maker Holcim, which they claim is doing “too little” to cut carbon emissions, a statement by civil society groups backing the complainants showed on Tuesday. A spokesman for the Zug-based company said climate change was a “top priority for Holcim at the heart of our strategy”. “We do not believe that court cases focused on single companies are an effective mechanism to tackle the global complexity of climate action.” The civil case was first initiated in July last year by four residents of the Indonesian island of Pari, which has been repeatedly flooded as global warming has driven up sea levels. This was followed by informal negotiations in October which failed, prompting the formal submission of the complaint to the Zug court on Jan 30, according to Lorenz Kummer from Swiss Church Aid. The case is the first filing against a Swiss company and demands “proportional compensation” from Holcim, the statement said. NGOs backing the complainants said they had singled out Holcim because the company was one of the major carbon dioxide emitters worldwide and the largest so-called “carbon major” in Switzerland. Holcim’s website said it is committed to decarbonising its building and updated its climate targets last year. – Reuters Myanmar streets empty on coup anniversary YANGON: Streets emptied and shops closed in protest across Myanmar yesterday, the second anniversary of the coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi’s government, with the junta hinting it may extend a state of emergency and delay new elections. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military’s power grab and bloody crackdown on dissent, which has sparked fighting across swathes of the country and tanked the economy. Western powers launched a fresh broadside of sanctions against the generals on the anniversary, but previous rounds have shown little sign of throwing the junta off course. Streets in commercial hub Yangon largely emptied from late morning, AFP correspondents said, after activists called for people across the country to close businesses and stay indoors from 10am (11am in Malaysia) to 4pm. Roads leading to the famous Shwedagon Pagoda – a Buddhist shrine that dominates Yangon’s skyline and is usually thronged by worshippers – were largely deserted. Most buses on roads elsewhere in the city were empty and there was a heavy security presence. It was similarly quiet in the second city of Mandalay, a resident told AFP. “There are a few people walking here and there in neighbourhoods but almost no activity on the main roads,” the resident said, requesting anonymity. Local media images showed empty streets in the eastern city of Mawlamyine. Around 300 protesters gathered outside Myanmar’s embassy in Bangkok, some chanting slogans against the military and holding portraits of Suu Kyi. The military justified its Feb 1, 2021, power grab with unsubstantiated claims of widespread fraud in the elections Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD) won in a landslide victory. A junta-imposed state of emergency was supposed to expire at the end of last month, after which the constitution states that authorities must set in motion plans to hold fresh elections. The military was widely expected to announce yesterday that it would prepare for the polls. But on Tuesday, the junta-stacked National Defence and Security Council met to discuss the state of the nation and concluded it “has not returned to normalcy yet”. Junta opponents, including the anti-coup “People’s Defence Forces” and a shadow government dominated by lawmakers from NLD had tried to seize “state power by means of unrest and violence”, the council said. – AFP A protester holding a portrait of Suu Kyi during a demonstration outside the Myanmar embassy in Bangkok yesterday. – AFPPIC

7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME 500,000 workers strike across UK o‘No magic wand’ for pay demands, says Sunak as talks with unions derail LONDON: Half a million workers went on strike in Britain yesterday, calling for higher wages in the largest such walkout in over a decade, closing schools and severely disrupting transport. Europe is battling a cost-of-living crisis and the latest strikes come a day after 1.27 million took to the streets in France, upping pressure on the French government over pension reform plans. Britain’s umbrella labour organisation the Trades Union Congress (TUC) called it the “biggest day of strike action since 2011”. Teachers and train drivers were among the Two missing Dallas Zoo monkeys found WASHINGTON: Two missing emperor tamarin monkeys turned up alive and well on Tuesday, officials said, a day after disappearing from the Dallas Zoo in the latest of a string of bizarre incidents at the attraction in the southern US city. Dallas police had said the two animals, reported missing Monday, may have been intentionally taken out of the zoo and issued a photo of a man in a hoodie who may be linked to the monkeys’ disappearance. But all ended well, and on Tuesday evening, Dallas police tweeted that they had located the two monkeys in an abandoned home in the town of Lancaster, some 25km south of the zoo. The police department posted a photo of a tamarin monkey with trademark white whiskers sitting on what looks like a portable fence leaning against a wall. “Pictured is one of the animals still inside the closet of the house,” the Dallas police department said of the photo. “The monkeys have been returned to the zoo.” The monkeys’ disappearance marked the second time that animals have vanished from the facility in recent weeks. The zoo closed on Jan 13 after keepers discovered a breach in the enclosure of a clouded leopard. The missing big cat was eventually found near her habitat and had not left the zoo grounds. A little more than a week later, the zoo reported that an endangered lappet-faced vulture was found dead from a wound, and said the “circumstances of the death are unusual”. – AFP Actor Baldwin formally charged over fatal ‘Rust’ shooting B R I E F S HUGE CROWDS TURN OUT FOR POPE’S MASS KINSHASA: A huge crowd of singing and dancing worshippers turned out to attend a papal mass in DR Congo’s capital yesterday, on the second day of Pope Francis’s visit to the conflict-torn country. Many tens of thousands of people flocked to the tarmac of Kinshasa’s N’Dolo airport for the open-air mass. Adrien Louka, 55, said he had arrived before dawn. “As our country has many problems, it is reconciliation that we are looking for and the Pope will give a message so that the countries around us leave us in peace,” he said. – AFP RUSSIAN JOURNALIST GETS EIGHT YEARS IN JAIL MOSCOW: Prominent Russian journalist Alexander Nevzorov was sentenced in absentia to eight years in jail by a court here yesterday after it found him guilty of spreading “fake news” about the Russian army, state media reported. Investigators opened a case against Nevzorov last year for posts on social media in which he accused Russia’s armed forces of deliberately shelling a maternity hospital in the Ukrainian city of Mariupol, an assertion Moscow said was false. Nevzorov’s wife wrote on Instagram in March that she and her husband were in Israel. – Reuters PERU CONGRESS STILL UNDECIDED ON POLLS LIMA: Peruvian lawmakers on Tuesday once again failed to agree on a plan to bring forward elections in a bid to end weeks of deadly protests that have brought parts of the South American country to a standstill. On Tuesday, lawmakers again failed to reach an agreement on a potential 2023 vote after first rejecting President Dina Boluarte’s proposal on Friday and then on Monday. As lawmakers debated, demonstrators gathered for new protests in central Lima, only a few blocks from Congress. The so-called Great March, called by union leaders and rural organisations, saw protesters chanting and waving banners reading “Dina resign now”. – Reuters TASTE OF LIFE ... Anastasia, 10, holds loaves of bread given to her by a volunteer from a car, amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, near the Ukrainian city of Kherson. – REUTERSPIC latest groups to act, as well as border force workers at UK air and seaports. “We are striking because for the past 10 years we had effectively had a pay cut,” said job centre worker and union representative Graham, who preferred not to give his last name. “Some of our members, even though they are working, still have to make visits to food banks. “Not only are wages not keeping up, but things like fares, council tax and rents are going up. Anything we get is eaten away.” Britain has witnessed months of strikes by tens of thousands of workers – including postal staff, lawyers, nurses and employees in the retail sector – as UK inflation raced above 11%, the highest level in more than 40 years. At London’s King’s Cross rail station, charity worker Kate Lewis said she sympathised with the strikers despite her train being delayed. “I understand. We are all in the same boat. All impacted by inflation.” But government and company bosses are standing firm over wage demands. With thousands of schools closed for the day, Education Minister Gillian Keegan said she was “disappointed” teachers had walked out. Public and Commercial Services Union general secretary Mark Serwotka said the government’s position was “unsustainable”. “It’s not feasible that they can sit back with this unprecedented amount of industrial action growing, because it’s half a million today. “Next week, we have paramedics, and we have nurses, then there will be the firefighters,” he added, warning that unions were prepared to strike throughout the summer. “Nothing would give me more pleasure than, to wave a magic wand and have all of you paid lots more,” British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak told public health workers on Monday. “An important part of us getting a grip of inflation and halving it is making sure the government’s responsible with its borrowing. “If that gets out of control that makes it worse and it’s about making pay settlements reasonable and fair.” Unions are also staging rallies across the country against the government’s plans to legislate against public sector strike action. Sunak has introduced a draft law requiring some frontline workers to maintain a minimum level of service during walkouts. – AFP El Salvador unveils mega-prison for gangsters SAN SALVADOR: El Salvador President Nayib Bukele on Tuesday unveiled what he called the largest prison in the Americas, intended to hold 40,000 suspected gang members, many of them arrested under a state of emergency in his “war” on crime. He did not specify when the first transfer of prisoners would take place from the nearly 63,000 suspected gang members currently detained by Salvadorean authorities. According to Bukele, gangsters imprisoned by previous governments had access to “prostitutes, PlayStations, screens, mobile phones and computers” in other jails. But those held at the new “Terrorism Confinement Centre” would be forced to work, according to Deputy Justice Minister Osiris Luna. Built in an isolated rural area near Tecoluca, 74km southeast of the capital San Salvador, the gigantic prison complex covers 166ha, Minister of Public Works Romeo Rodriguez said. “The largest prison in all of Americas” will be guarded day and night by 600 soldiers and 250 policemen, he said. President Bukele posted on Twitter a video of himself visiting the facility, one of the biggest prisons in the world. Mass arrests of suspected criminals as part of the government’s “war” on gangs have been criticised by human rights organisations. A state of emergency currently in force allows authorities to make arrests without warrants. It was introduced in late March after a wave of murders attributed to criminal gangs that have plagued El Salvador and other countries in the region. Humans Rights Watch on Friday denounced “severe prison overcrowding” in El Salvador’s jails as a result of arresting suspects without a warrant. The country’s 20 prisons have a total capacity of 30,000 inmates, without the new mega-prison. – AFP LOS ANGELES: Alec Baldwin was formally charged on Tuesday with involuntary manslaughter over the accidental shooting of a cinematographer on the set of the low-budget western Rust. Baldwin was holding the Colt .45 during rehearsals for the film when it discharged, killing Halyna Hutchins in October 2021. New Mexico First Judicial district attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies announced earlier this month that there was sufficient evidence to file criminal charges against the veteran US actor. “Today we have taken another important step in securing justice for Halyna Hutchins,” Carmack-Altwies said on Tuesday. “In New Mexico, no one is above the law and justice will be served.” In their statement of probable cause, investigators said Baldwin had been “distracted and talking on his cell phone to his family” during a firearms training session. He only attended training for around 30 minutes, even though the session was scheduled to run for “at least an hour or more,“ they wrote, citing the film’s armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed. Gutierrez-Reed, who was responsible for weapons on set, was formally charged on Tuesday with the same crime as Baldwin. If convicted, they face up to 18 months in prison and a US$5,000 fine, but a firearm enhancement to the charge could take that sentence to five years. Former 30 Rock star Baldwin has said he was told by the crew that the gun was not loaded and that he did not pull the trigger. – AFP

8 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SPEAK UP West war hawks further reset doomsday clock THE latest geo-political developments indicate that 2023 and beyond may prove to be the most challenging period for those concerned with the maintenance of global peace as well as for the survival of humanity. Acknowledgement of this comes from the resetting of the Doomsday Clock at 90 seconds to midnight due primarily but not exclusively to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the increased risk of nuclear escalation. Previously set at 100 seconds in 2020 the new Clock time is also influenced by the climate crisis and the breakdown of global norms and institutions needed to mitigate risks from advanced technologies and biological threats such as Covid-19. According to Mary Robinson, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: “The Doomsday Clock is sounding an alarm for the whole of humanity. We are on the brink of a precipice. But our leaders are not acting at sufficient speed or scale to secure a peaceful and liveable planet. From cutting carbon emissions to strengthening arms control treaties and investing in pandemic preparedness, we know what needs to be done. The science is clear, but the political will is lacking. This must change in 2023 if we are to avert catastrophe. We are facing multiple, existential crises. Leaders need a crisis mindset.” What is missing in her and other Western leaders’ comments is that the major factor behind this development is that the West led by the United States is determined to accelerate the momentum towards war with Russia and China, thus increasing the risk of nuclear conflict. Western War Hawks The mindset of the war hawks in Washington and its allies can be discerned from these two most recent reports following the resetting of the Doomsday clock: 0 German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock speaking at a Council of Europe meeting in Strasbourg declared that “we are fighting a war against Russia and not against each other”. This admission is contrary to the earlier German government claim that it is seeking a peaceful end to the conflict. Germany has also now abandoned its previous policy of not providing weapons to conflict zones through its decision to deliver Ukraine with Leopard tanks. This has been followed by announcements by other NATO members and the US that they will deliver similar weaponry to enable Ukraine to win its war against Russia. and Iraq. If Kyiv is supplied with such shells for Nato heavy military equipment, we will consider this as the use of dirty nuclear bombs against Russia with all the ensuing consequences.” What is clear in the Russian official statement is that ensuing consequences may include Russia’s use - by intention or miscalculation - of nuclear weaponry on the battlefield in Ukraine. This will effectively reset the Doomsday Clock at zero. China’s response Beijing has not commented on Munihan’s war prediction and shootto-kill memo. Perhaps China’s military leaders think that talk is cheap. But they will surely be taking notice and will be preparing for a worst-case scenario as the US and Japan intensify efforts to contain and bring down China. The rest of the world The rest of the world should not take lightly the ratcheting by the West’s war hawks, which together with western mainstream media for several years now, have been brainwashing the West and allies to hate China, and now Russia. This hate campaign is now being upped several notches so as to soften the ground for military strikes against Russia and China. Supporters of US and European war hawks in Europe and Asia should be reminded that they will be the main victims of a US strategy that has sucked Nato into the Ukraine war and is determined to start another one over Taiwan, with Japan, Australia and India already drawn into the US-led anti-China coalition. Two war fronts, without involving US soldiers and expenditure, is the Biden dream strategy aimed at the maintenance of US hegemony. Through this, the US can also continue being the world’s foremost military arms and weapons manufacturer and merchant. It is not surprising that the strongest stocks in the US in recent years have been those of military and defence stocks such as Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics and Raytheon. Nothing is sacred to preserve US supremacy in the world of politics and economics. Not even the possibility of a nuclear war. Lim Teck Ghee’s Another Take is aimed at demystifying social orthodoxy. Comments: [email protected] “The rest of the world should not take lightly the ratcheting by the West’s war hawks, which together with western mainstream media for several years now, have been brainwashing the West and allies to hate China, and now Russia. Doomsday Clock set at 90 seconds to midnight due primarily but not exclusively to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and increased risk of nuclear escalation. – REUTERSPIC 0 US four-star general, Mike Munihan, head of American Air Mobility command has ordered the 50,000 members and 500 planes under his command to get ready for war with China. This war he predicts will take place in 2025. In his signed memo widely reported by American media and making news all around the world, he advised his commanders to report all major efforts to prepare for the China fight to him by Feb 28. Furthermore, he directed all personnel to prepare by firing “a clip” at a seven-metre target, and to “aim for the head”; that is, to shoot to kill. Russia’s response In response to the German and Nato escalation, Konstantin Gavrilov, the head of the Russia Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe in a statement noted on behalf of the Russian Government: “We warn Western sponsors of the Kyiv military machine from encouraging nuclear provocations and blackmail. We know that the Leopard 2 tank, as well as the Bradley and Marder infantry fighting vehicles, are armed with uraniumcore armour-piercing projectiles, the use of which leads to contamination of the area, as happened in Yugoslavia ANOTHER TAKE BY LIM TECK GHEE

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Helping a spouse with mental disorder MENTAL illness can be a burden on any relationship, especially a marriage. Mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety can cause sufferers to have low self-esteem and withdraw from socialising, negatively affecting relationships. Untreated mental illness can also cause people with the condition to lash out at their partners in abusive or hurtful ways. We will look at some types of mental illness and the best way to cope with them. Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder causes a person to switch between manic and depressive episodes. In a manic episode, a person might be highly energetic and excited. They might have trouble sleeping and display poor judgement and impulsive behaviour. During a depressive episode, a person might feel completely hopeless and lose interest in everyday activities. They might also experience sleep problems, eat too much or too little, and have difficulty focusing. Their mood swings are exhausting for their partners, and they may become irritable or depressed. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) A traumatic event is often the underlying cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma can range from an attack to a natural disaster to the loss of a loved one. For people who have experienced trauma, the memory can often make them feel overwhelmed and intrusive. This can cause a lot of stress and suffering for individuals and their relationships. Symptoms may include nightmares, flashbacks, increased irritability, withdrawal from friends and family, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and feelings of anxiety or guilt. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ADHD or executive dysfunction is the inability to efficiently organise thoughts and execute tasks. This means that people with ADHD have trouble getting things done on time, making it hard for them to manage their lives. With ADHD, a partner must not take things personally as people with ADHD often cannot control their behaviours and words as much as they would like to, so focus on problem-solving rather than assigning blame. Eating disorders (Bulimia or Anorexia) Eating disorders are complex health conditions that take a huge toll on the mind and body. Signs of eating disorders can include going to the bathroom after meals to induce vomiting, the urge and tendency to buy laxatives or diuretics, skipping meals, eating small amounts and exercising too much. As well as wearing baggy clothes to conceal one’s body shape. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, has two symptoms: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts that you can’t control, often centred on a theme such as fear of dirt, germs or thoughts of something happening to loved ones. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or rituals that you perform to relieve the anxiety and distress caused by your obsessions. An example of OCD is the fear of contamination, leading to obsessive hand-washing that can cause skin irritation and discomfort. Communication is the key Adjusting to a changed relationship dynamic can be challenging, so make sure you have the support you need. Many support resources are available, including online therapy groups and face-to-face counselling services. You or your partner may also want to consider joining a support group. If your partner pulls away from you, don’t take it personally. An important element in solving problems of this nature is communication. Prioritise open communication, set boundaries for your relationship, and learn to accept that symptoms are inevitable. Avoid passive-aggressive behaviour, hints and sarcasm. Your partner may not read between the lines or pick up on subtle cues, so bring up issues directly. Be patient, avoid giving ultimatums, and make sure your partner does not feel defensive or judgmental. It is also vital to help them manage their symptoms, like exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, taking medications, setting a routine and going to therapy when necessary. Try not to fix things on your own. Finally, be sensitive to your partner’s needs and don’t disregard requests such as a need to visit a doctor. It could be a subtle call for help. Some days may be more challenging than others, but your communication ability will help both of you get through the hard times together. In addition to a display of compassion and empathy. Final say The essential factor in preventing marriages from falling apart under the pressure of mental illness is the commitment to making the relationship a priority. Both partners must attempt to care for each other’s well-being and to communicate their needs openly. Dr Praveena Rajendra is a certified mental health and awareness practitioner specialising in narcissistic abuse recovery. Comments: [email protected] “An important element in solving problems of this nature is communication. Prioritise open communication, set boundaries for your relationship, and learn to accept that symptoms are inevitable. MIND THE MIND BY DR PRAVEENA RAJENDRA P8: NEW COLUMN: Green Inspiration LOGO with photo, By Pishu Murli Hassaram + QUOTE HEADLINE: Understanding parenting challenges in families with autistic children NOWADAYS, the awareness towards children with learning difficulties, especially autistic ones, has generally increased among parents. Nevertheless, it is not easy for parents with these special children. Let us first look at the definition of autism. Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a severe childhood developmental disorder caused by differences in the brain. According to data from Health Ministry in 2021, a total of 589 children aged 18 and below are diagnosed with ASD which also shows an increase of five per cent from 562 children in 2020. Due to the increasing number, it is thus important to delve into the states and circumstances of parents who are the main pillars of the family. Although comparatively the awareness towards the issue of autism has risen, it is nonetheless a very tough journey, especially for parents with newly diagnosed ASD children. These parents will need to renavigate their parenting roles and responsibilities. With this in mind, the author would like to share the SCCS-R Model of Parenting Challenges faced by fathers, mothers or caretakers of autistic children. This model, which is developed based on the author’s small-scale research, may assist parents in learning, anticipating and understanding the hardships of raising an autistic child. It is discovered that parenting experiences and challenges could be segregated into five distinct tiers encompassing: (1) Self, (2) Child, (3) Community, (4) System and (5) Religion, which represent experiences with regard to the challenges that parents of autistic children would go through starting with the parent’s self, the child, the larger society, and system, as well as religion. Tier 1: Self (S) The first tier illustrates the trials of battling with parents’ own selves. The very first hurdle is to readily accept the diagnosis made by the doctors that their child is autistic. Once parents pass this hurdle, they will then make huge sacrifices — emotionally, physically and financially — all the way through their lives. On top of that, parents will need to have a high level of understanding, knowledge and patience regarding ASD. Within the Self tier too, parents will need to employ suitable coping strategies in order to handle many stressors in taking care of their autistic children. Even though there is a scarce discussion regarding this perspective faced by parents as it is usually blinded by the focus put on the child, acknowledging the first tier of Self is important because parents are the prime caregiver of the children. If parents’ feelings are ignored, it will be impossible for them to care for their children. Tier 2: Child (C) The second tier shifts to the autistic child. There are two important aspects under this heading: (1) autistic traits of the child and (2) phase-based temporal challenges. The former includes one-way communication, preference to be alone, aloof, participation in silence, routine-based behaviour, attention to detail, obsessions and tantrums while the latter refers to the various challenges throughout the journey of parenthood. ASD, as the term indicates, is a spectrum of disorders that will vary from child to child. Thus, parents may find that the challenges related to their child’s behaviours are unpredictable and never-ending. Tier 3: Community (C) Next, moving further from the Self and the Child, the challenges come from the Community. Parents will further face tests from people around them. Due to a lack of awareness in society, many still do not understand the nature and hardships of having autistic children. This has led to people labelling, stereotyping and sometimes up to the extent of discriminating against autistic children. This has added more challenges to the parents, who are struggling to even manage their own self and their child’s troubles but have to face the community that seems to be ignorant and “heartless”. Tier 4: System In tier 4, the challenges come from the bigger view which is the system and the policies. For example, parents have difficulties searching for suitable schools and centres for their ASD child. Supportive schools or centres are vital to assist autistic children’s selfconfidence, self-concept as well as social development. Without teachers who are experts in special children, it is hard for parents to enter the current education system, including COMMENT by Hazlina Abdullah deciding what is best for the children in many aspects i.e, teaching and learning environment, learning objectives and assessments. Tier 5: Religion With the many problems and challenges to cope with, parents are found to resort to God and religion. When they are often left exhausted and shattered, parents muster their courage and rebuild themselves by accepting their fate. By believing and embracing their religious belief, and submitting to the Almighty or God, parents will stay strong and sail through their quest in taking care of their autistic children. With positive and optimistic thinking upheld through their religion, parents positively change the feelings of being unfortunate parents into better parents who put up genuine fights for their children. This SCCS-R model can assist parents — both fathers and mothers — especially those who have just known about the condition of their children. Being aware of the five tiers can help them to learn, anticipate and understand the hardships of nurturing and caring for an autistic child. Recognising the distinct tiers will also reduce parents’ overwhelming, devastating mental state and help to manoeuvre them in facing each phase in a more sensible and prepared approach. Striding in baby steps, parents can first Self-discover themselves, then proceed to know the Child, Community and advance to the System, and finally be harmonised as well as perfected by a firm belief in Religion. With this, parents of ASD children would be more capable when handling stress and can stay sensible and wise in caring for their special child. Dr Hazlina Abdullah is a senior lecturer at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia. Comments: [email protected]

10 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Australia’s Exal set to make its mark on Malaysian market KUALA LUMPUR: Australian developer Exal marked its entry into the Malaysian market late last year with the purpose of building a sustainable space for multigenerational living. Founded in 2016, Exal has quickly developed an impressive track-record for modern and sustainable living. Now, managing director Albert Ko is bringing Exal back to his roots through the SÓL Estate project in Kuching, Sarawak – the company’s first-ever project on Malaysian soil. Exal is looking to incorporate a functional and progressive design, to assimilate revolving lifestyle needs with nature here. With increasing concerns about climate change, as well as community interactions, environmental, social and governance considerations now form a key part of company strategy across various industries. According to a survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers reveals that 18% of Malaysia’s corporate sectors including construction, have made a commitment to net SÓL Estate project in Kuching, Sarawak, is the company’s first-ever project on Malaysian soil. oBoutique developer is returning to its roots to build sustainable multi-generational living spaces zero emissions — and the property industry is leading the charge. In line with this, developers, such as Exal are working to meet these concerns, refocusing priorities to instead concentrate on the incorporation of sustainable infrastructure and liveable spaces. A boutique developer which had its start in Western Australia, Exal brings a combined experience of over 25 years in real estate to this project. Operating with the vision of providing clients “Better Ways of Living, Beyond Buildings”, Exal consistently strives to seek mutual gains with its partners and stakeholders. Exal has 12 development projects under its belt with completed projects and on-going projects. This includes single-unit and townhouse properties, apartments such as Midland Heights, Yugo Waterford, and de Central, Beckenham, mixed developments – Infill Developments – and township projects. “We pride ourselves on creating development with integrity — development projects which are curated based on the core values of our company — professional expertise, whole life cycle service and commitment,” said Albert. Elaborating on these values, he continued, “Our team utilises our professional expertise and background in project delivery, legal, finance and real estate to best serve our clients. At the same time, we understand that the property development cycle is a multilayered process, and we work towards adding value to each phase of the development value chain, and committing ourselves to excellence and integrity in every project we undertake.” The Malaysian development known as SÓL Estate is situated on Arang Road West, Kuching, Sarawak. The RM365 million residential development covers a 28.5ha area and boasts meticulously crafted solar-orientated structures together with a beautifully functional design. Prioritising sustainable, multigenerational living, through SÓL Estate, Exal seeks to harness the unexplored potential of Sarawak’s property market. Albert said, “In developing and managing projects, our previous projects and experiences in Australia remain just as vital to this development.” He added that key lessons and experiences on matching client expectations have been carried over in determining how to best address the goal of creating a sustainable development space. He said that they were committed to completing high-quality developments, and their completed projects down under are testimony to that. The development currently features 269 bespoke homes across three phases, with 70% of the phase one properties sold, while the rollout for phase two is slated for fourth-quarter 2023. Albert himself has over a decade of vast experience in property development, having founded Lumen Properties in 2009 before moving on to set up Exal, and leads the strategic development of the company, with a primary focus on sales and project marketing of the developments. The Exal Group currently has over RM3 billion gross development value in the development pipeline in Perth with SÓL Estate representing the group’s first venture outside of Australia. The group over 25 years in real estate, property investment, engineering as well as project management. Johor Land to launch over 1,000 units worth RM650m JOHOR BARU: Johor Land Bhd (JLand), the property development arm of JLand Group Sdn Bhd, will launch more than 1,000 new property units in Johor this year with a gross development value (GDV) of RM649.6 million. JLand director-in-charge Zamri Yusof said the new properties include 725 units worth more than RM502.8 million in Bandar Dato Onn, Johor Baru, 188 units valued at RM88.6 million in Bandar Tiram, and 120 units worth RM65.5 million in Taman Mutiara Gading, Batu Pahat. He said that to usher in the new year, the company is offering innovative and sustainable residential properties with the launch of 156 two-storey terrace houses in the second phase of Perjiranan 8, Bandar Dato Onn, with a GDV of RM112 million. “Prices start from RM656,200 for bumiputra for type Areca 1 (land size 20 ft by 70 ft), while Canna 1 and 2 (land size 24 ft by 70 ft) are offered at RM772,480 and RM780,130, respectively. “We believe that the housing units will meet the quality standard which will benefit its residents,” he said in a statement this week. He said Perjiranan 8, Bandar Dato Onn, is the 10th mixed (residential and commercial) property development project by JLand on 25.2ha with a GDV of over RM500 million. Zamri said the development covers four phases, including the first phase comprising 200 two-storey terrace residential house units which were launched in September 2021 and sold out. He said the location of Perjiranan 8 near Aeon Mall Bandar Dato Onn, Perjiranan 4 commercial centre and the Tebing food hub would make this development a preferred destination for shoppers. “In addition, the strategic position of Bandar Dato Onn in the middle of the rapidly developing Iskandar Malaysia region as well as sustainable infrastructure and environment create a healthy ecosystem which is able to meet the economic and cultural needs of the community,” he added. – Bernama Radium Development unveils R Suites with RM521m GDV KUALA LUMPUR: Property developer Radium Development Bhd has launched its latest project, R Suites Chancery Residences, in Ampang, Kuala Lumpur with a gross development value (GDV) of RM521 million. It said recently that the 51-storey building on approximately 0.88ha land consisted of 944 residential suites, commercial spaces and exclusive amenities as well as a hotel with 145 rooms managed by a well-known private hotel brand based in Kuala Lumpur. The project is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2027. It said the project has been awarded the GreenRe Gold Certificate under the residential category by the Real Estate and Housing Developers Association Malaysia (Rehda) in line with Radium Development’s commitment to the environment and surrounding communities and the company’s efforts in ensuring sustainable construction through the implementation of practical environmental features. Meanwhile, managing director Gary Gan Kah Siong said the real estate sector saw an improvement in terms of transactions and values in 2022 and the sector is now entering a recovery phase starting in 2023 and beyond. He said as investors are expected to diversify their investment portfolios to secure the future, therefore, R Suites Chancery Residences represented an ideal opportunity for investors who planned to strengthen or expand their property portfolio, in addition to providing long-term returns through rental income. With its prime location, the residence is set to emerge as a landmark onto its own. – Bernama B R I E F SPASDEC PARTNERS SEDIMI TO DEVELOP LAND IN KUANTAN KUALA LUMPUR: Pasdec Holdings Bhd’s wholly owned subsidiary Pasdec Corporation Sdn Bhd has entered into a joint-venture agreement with Sedimi Property Development Sdn Bhd (SPDSB) to develop land at Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan in Pahang. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the group said the project would be developed in two phases, comprising 157 units of single-storey terrace houses in Phase 1 and 80 units of single-storey semi-detached houses in Phase 2. “The proposed development will enable Pasdec Group to speed up the project without putting additional financial burden on the group and allow it to focus on other existing and new development projects,” it said. The group said Pasdec Corp has obtained the development order and submitted the pre-computation plan for the project as well as partial building plan for Phase 1 to the appropriate authorities for approval. – Bernama MINISTRY AIMS TO INCLUDE LARKIN HOUSING PROJECT IN 2023 BUDGET JOHOR BARU: The Ministry of Local Government Development (KPKT) intends to include the proposed construction of the Larkin People’s Housing Project (PPR) in the 2023 Budget. Local Government Development Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the proposal for the construction would be forwarded to Minister Nga Kor Ming before being discussed by the Economic Planning Unit (EPU). He said there are two proposed sites for the construction of the PPR, which are in the Larkin Industrial Estate (Dato Onn) and near Kampung Ungku Mohsin, here. “The budget will be presented at the end of February, so that’s why I chose to go down to see the proposed areas for evaluation before being presented to the minister (Nga) and (EPU). – Bernama VESTLAND BAGS RM63M CONSTRUCTION JOB KUALA LUMPUR: Vestland Bhd (Vestland) via its wholly owned unit Vestland Resources Sdn Bhd (VRSB), has received a letter of award from Rimbun Merdu Sdn Bhd worth RM63.15 million. The award would entail VRSB undertaking the main building and associated works for one block of 33-storey serviced apartments and related facilities in Seksyen 41, Jalan Dewan Sultan Sulaiman 1, Kuala Lumpur. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia this week, the company said that the works would include the supply of labour/workers, materials, tools, equipment and machinery for the construction, completion and maintenance of the main building and associated works. “The scope of works comprises of one block of serviced apartment complete with piling works, architectural works, structural works, mechanical and electrical services and external works within and outside the boundaries of the lot,” it said. Vestland said completion of the construction works would be 34 months from Monday. – Bernama

KLCI STI 3,377.65 11.98 HANG SENG 22,072.18 229.85 SCI 3,284.92 29.25 NIKKEI 27,346.88 TSEC 15,420.13 154.93 KOSPI 2,449.80 CLOSED S&P/ASX200 7,501.70 25.00 THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] Wealthy Malaysians eye Swiss property PETALING JAYA: An increasing number of high net worth Malaysians are eyeing Switzerland property that is said to offer stable investment opportunities with dynamic capital gain returns amid the volatile stock market, rising interest rates and global recessionary pressures. Real estate developer Andermatt Swiss Alps head of sales Russell Collins said given Andermatt exemption from the Swiss’ Lex Koller law, which normally restricts international buyers, its central location and year-round activities, the integrated destination gets a lot of interest from Southeast Asians, including Malaysians. “Now we are really starting to push into the region. In our view, the sales volume we anticipate this year will be higher than last year as we are seeing a big uptick in demand coming from the region at the moment,” he told SunBiz. Collins said now high net-worth investors are looking for something solid and stable that they can rely on such as the Swiss properties. “A lot of these people have investments in stocks, equities, startups, cryptocurrencies, all sorts of different things and they’re saying that they need to balance that with something really stable. “What we’ve seen is that the more volatile the stock market gets, and the more the outlook for the global economy worsens, the more inquiries we get. We’re busier than we Investors looking to diversify their assets are tapping into the long-term potential of Swiss properties whose values are increasing at a solid rate. oSwitzerland’s real estate is seen as a safe haven offering stability and dynamic capital gains █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] Tien-Long Woon new MD of FedEx Express Malaysia KUALA LUMPUR: FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp and one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, appointed Tien-Long Woon as the new managing director of FedEx Express Malaysia. He succeeds Siang-Chung Chong, who retired from FedEx after 19 years of distinguished service. Tien-Long joined FedEx Express Malaysia in 2010 as senior engineer for planning and engineering. He was promoted to senior manager of operations in 2015 and was responsible for business development in the Northern and Eastern regions of the country. In 2019, he was appointed managing director of FedEx Express Thailand, where he led key service enhancements. This includes introducing the first electric delivery vehicle with zero tailpipe emissions and a sustainability initiative to recycle courier uniforms. He was instrumental in strengthening the team’s culture, which has helped the company earn the title of Best Companies to Work for in Asia in 2021 and 2022. In his new role, Tien-Long will lead a team of nearly 900 team members in Malaysia. He will continue to oversee FedEx operations in Thailand until his successor is announced. Labuan retains Development Blueprint 2030 LABUAN: Labuan Corporation (PL) will retain the Labuan Development Blueprint 2030 to drive the duty-free island’s economic growth. Labuan has a long-term development plan until the year 2030 via the blueprint prepared by PL. “The plan will strengthen and diversify Labuan’s economy,” said CEO Rithuan Ismail during an interview on Bernama TV’s The Brief programme in conjunction with Federal Territory Day yesterday. Labuan should not depend only on international finance and the oil and gas industry, he added. “Tourism is a major initiative under the blueprint as Labuan is a duty-free island with potential tourism assets,” he said. To realise the blueprint’s goals, development action plans have been prepared based on the plan’s five main thrusts, encompassing finance, oil and gas, tourism, education, and the civil service, he added. And in line with turning Labuan into a ‘Smart and Sustainable Island City’, the Federal Territories Department has prepared the Labuan Smart City Blueprint. “This will support the island’s digital economy based on the Internet of Things (IoT),” he said. – Bernama Pavilion REIT’s income after tax surges to RM216.4m in Q4 KUALA LUMPUR: Pavilion REIT’s income after taxation for the fourth quarter ended Dec 31, 2022 increased 304% from RM53.6 million to RM216.4 million. In a filing to Bursa Malaysia, Pavilion REIT announced total gross revenue of RM145.8 million for the fourth quarter ended Dec 31, last year – an increase of RM21.5 million or 17.3% as compared to the same quarter in the preceding year of RM124.3 million. This increase is mainly attributed to higher rental billings, increase in revenue rent and income from advertising. Total property operating expenses was higher by RM7.3 million or 17.6% as compared to the same quarter of the preceding year mainly due to higher utility cost as the 10% rebate given by the government ended in December 2021 as well as imposition of tariff surcharge of 3.7 sen per kilowatt hour to the non-domestic sector. As a result of the change in minimum wage requirements, there was an increase in maintenance costs due to remobilising of ad-hoc upkeep and adjustment of the contract sum for labour-intensive services. These factors resulted in net property income increasing by RM14.2 million or 17.2% for the fourth quarter of 2022 as compared to the same quarter in 2021. Fair value gain of RM151.4 million arising from revaluation of its investment properties was recognised in the current quarter mainly due to increase in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur mall’s market value from RM4.85 billion to RM5 billion. Borrowing cost increased from RM22.1 million to RM25.2 million due to increases in the overnight policy rate as 64.7% of its borrowings are based on floating rate. The result of these factors was a nett gain of RM162.8 million or 304%. Total revenue for the financial year ended December 31, 2022 was RM569.7 million, higher by RM81.1 million or 16.6% as compared to the preceding year end. Income after taxation also increased by 217.6% or RM272.6 million to RM397.8 million resulting in annual distributable income of RM255.8 million or 8.37 sen per unit. Distribution of 4.29 sen per unit would be payable on Feb 28. The Manager of Pavilion REIT expects retail sales to normalise as consumers in Malaysia continue to be cautious in their spending due to uncertainties in the domestic and global economy stemming from inflationary pressures, the rising cost of living and the projected slowdown in the international economy. Despite these challenges, it is expected that domestic demand will anchor the economy amid a steady recovery in the labour market. Datuk Philip Ho, the Manager’s CEO said that Pavilion REIT malls will continue to elevate its retail mix, create immersive experiences and encourage shopper interaction. Through festive and themed campaigns, international collaborations, first-in-Malaysia experiences, stronger tenant partnerships, celebrity appearances and rewards, Pavilion REIT malls will be able to reinvigorate a passion for shopping, dining and leisure in Malaysia for visitors. MTrustee Bhd, as trustee for Pavilion REIT, has also entered into a memorandum of understanding with Tanah Hijauan Sdn Bhd (THSB), a Malaysia-based developer and provider of renewable energy and energy solutions. Taking advantage of the Corporate Green Power Programme framework launched by the Malaysian government in November 2022, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur mall and Intermark mall would now be able to explore the possibility of purchasing green electricity generated by THSB’s solar power plant. This is expected to generate future energy savings for these malls. Terengganu agency targets RM100m acquisitions KUALA TERENGGANU: State agency Kumpulan Perbadanan Memajukan Iktisad Negeri Terengganu (PMINT), which owns nine subsidiaries, has targeted acquisitions of about RM100 million this year. CEO Wan Adnan Wan Derahman said this year’s targeted value of acquisitions is higher than last year’s RM60 million, which was mainly from subsidiary PB Hotel Management Sdn Bhd. To achieve the target, the state investment agency has implemented a reorganisation exercise in terms of operations and strategies to enhance the profitability of its subsidiaries such as P-Excell Management Sdn Bhd, Pertima Terengganu Sdn Bhd, and TTI Management Sdn Bhd. “With the reorganisation of strategies and operations, already profitable companies will be even more profitable this year. For example, the selection of TTI Management Sdn Bhd to be the tourist hub for Pulau Redang will have a major impact in terms of income where previously the company had struggled with high costs,” he said at the state agency’s dinner yesterday. Wan Adnan said this year, Kumpulan PMINT through P-Excell Management Sdn Bhd, plans to develop more commercial properties to maintain its position as the market leader in the Terengganu real estate sector. A major potential project will be in Bandar Baru Kertih involving 500 homes. He said the real estate sector is expected to give a return of 40% to the group this year.– Bernama 19.77 24.72 have ever been,” he said. Investors looking to diversify their assets are tapping into the long-term potential of Swiss properties whose values are increasing at a solid rate. “They see Swiss property as a safe haven as Switzerland still has very low interest rates and property levy in addition to no leasehold nor stamp duty – unlike in the UK which are also prominent among high net worth Malaysians,” he said. Collins added that comparing the Swiss franc against other major currencies in the world last year, the Swiss franc has accelerated greatly. The Swiss franc is now 10-15% above the Sterling on the exchange rate compared to the same period last year. “So getting the Swiss franc denominated investment plays very well for defensive investors who are looking to make money during a global downturn,” he said. Collins also cited that currently international buyers account for 60% of Andermatt’s owners. The demand for Andermatt from Southeast Asia has come organically, rather than them being overly proactive with the marketing. “Last year, US$25 million (RM106 million) or 20% of the sales value that we secured for Andermatt came from the Southeast Asian region,” he said. Andermatt’s newest development Yara, designed by award-winning, Zurich-based Mach Architektur has just been recently prelaunched. It is also starting a smaller development of 12 apartments called Mona that brings traditional Swiss architecture into the present and blends in with the region, location and the times. “So you have all of the kind of energy and excitement of a new place which is really growing, where values are really increasing at a very good rate. But with that sort of backstop, yes, this is Switzerland, and it’s a stable safe place to keep your money,” said Collins.

12 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SUNBIZ Malaysian retail sector hiring jumps on robust sales, brighter consumer sentiment PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s retail industry has experienced a 65% increase in hiring activity year-over-year primarily due to robust retail sales and an upward trend in consumer sentiment, according to the foundit Insights Tracker (fit), formerly published as the Monster Employment Index. The easing of Covid rules and regulations, fast-growing retail business, along with borders reopening to boost import/export and resume travel had aided the boost in retail jobs. Similar trends were observed in the hospitality sector, where job demand increased by 55%. With a 34% increase in hiring activity, the banking, financial services, and insurance (BFSI) sector also maintained its upward trend. The country also recorded 21% year-on-year growth in e-recruitment activity in December 2022 compared with the same month a year ago attributed to the country easing travel restrictions and opening its borders. The index stands at 76 with 3% month-onmonth growth, driving a spree in hiring activity in December 2022. According to fit, the job market has shown growth month over month, projecting a continuous demand in the job market. Over the last three months, there has been a 10% growth in hiring across sectors, indicating persistent demand in the labour market. Commenting on job trends for December 2022, foundit Apac & ME CEO Sekhar Garisa said the job market in Malaysia is showing strong and sustained demand, as reflected in the growth numbers reported by the fit. “The country’s easing of travel restrictions and reopening of borders has led to a surge in demand across various sectors, particularly in retail, hospitality, and BFSI. “The overall picture is of resilience and growth, even though some sectors have experienced difficulties due to global economic uncertainty. We believe that this trend will persist in the upcoming months,” he said. Other sectors that showed encouraging growth in December 2022 are logistics covering courier, freight, transport, shipping, marine] (+32%), oil and gas (+1%), production, manufacturing, automotive and ancillary (+2%) and engineering, construction and real estate (+2%). The advertising, market research, public relations, media and entertainment industry also saw growth (+15%) in December 2022, led by a surge in digital marketing initiatives and artificial intelligence deployment. While the index reflects a year-on-year hiring dip in IT, Telecom/ISP, and BPO/ITES by 13%, the monthly hiring demand in the sector has seen an increase. However, hiring in this sector has slowed in recent months, primarily due to ongoing global economic uncertainties. Online recruitment surpassed the year-ago level in eight of the nine occupation groups monitored by the tracker, with hospitality & travel leading the charge at (+212%). This is due to the opening of land and air borders as the country has completely eased out of the Covid-19 pandemic and opened its land borders with Singapore. This factor has also contributed to the growth in sales and business development job roles (+28%). The increased penetration of digitisation across all sectors, followed by a pickup in finance and accounts (+29%) roles, registered an increased demand and has maintained growth rates since April 2021. Among all monitored functions, customer service is the only one to have registered a degrowth of 17% in December 2022. Premier De Muara launches Picasso Residences KUALA LUMPUR: Premier De Muara Sdn Bhd launched its flagship development Picasso Residences, despite setbacks due to the Covid19 pandemic and is determined to see the project to completion. According to its director Datuk Andrew Tan, the company is committed to completing the project, despite challenges faced such as labour shortage and the rising costs of construction materials which have delayed the project. He added that the movement control orders were also a factor. “There was never a slight of thought that we would never deliver it, 2020 was a challenge for everyone because of Covid-19 (pandemic). We were targeting to launch at overseas market, but of course we were facing challenges (due to the pandemic). “Once the government reopened the borders, we have been working relentlessly to get all the progress, the construction work back at full speed,” he told reporters during a press conference after the project’s grand launch at Wisma Chinese Chamber yesterday. The project sits on 3.53 acres, situated at Jalan From left: Hew, Tan, and Innoventive Consultancy (operations, business development and special projects) group director Desmond Wong during the press conference. oCompany committed to completing flagship project despite setbacks such as Covid-19, labour shortage and rising costs of construction materials █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] RM400m spent over last three years on Kapit development: Abang Johari KAPIT: The Sarawak government has spent RM400 million over the past three years for the implementation of development projects in Kapit Division, one of the divisions located in the interior of the state. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development projects have been implemented under the Upper Rajang Development Agency, in addition to the People’s Project and other small state government projects. According to him, Kapit in general is now developing rapidly, and the projects implemented are going well, but there are some projects that are delayed due to logistics. “We will look for other options to solve this issue and it will take time. I think in the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) we will carry out a half-term study for the implementation of the projects involved,” he said. He said this to reporters after chairing the state development coordination committee meeting, at the State Government Complex yesterday. Abang Johari said there are contractors facing the problem of bringing construction materials to the project site, and as an alternative to the road, the construction materials can be brought by using the river route. “We can use a barge which can carry more building materials at a cheaper cost than by road,” he said. He said that the state government does have a master plan for the expansion of Kapit city, which involves the development of a new urban area which will be connected to the main road to Sibu. “This new urban development project covers the development of the commercial centre, housing and basic roads,” he added. – Bernama Sivdio unveils enhanced RCM solution with OpticVyu tech PETALING JAYA: Visual data provider Sivdio Imaging Sdn Bhd has launched an enhanced Remote Construction Monitoring (RCM) solution utilising construction monitoring service provider OpticVyu technology to improve the competitiveness of the Malaysian construction industry. Sivdio’s RCM solution provides construction companies, as well as businesses in the oil, gas, petrochemical, power generation and power grid sectors, with a visual data collection and management system, that improves decision makers’ situational awareness. Sivdio managing director Azhan Maidin said its RCM solution facilitates the ongoing monitoring and recording of operational activities through the use of IP CCTV cameras. “Historically, most construction and engineering sites have been passively monitored by CCTV, but our enhanced solution can capture and convert visual data and then integrate this with a smart digital dashboard. “These dashboards, which utilise both AI and Machine Learning features, allow decision makers to visualise the captured data in a variety of ways, providing them with insights which will allow them to improve productivity, minimise delays, better manage supplies and monitor contractor progress,” he said in a statement. According to the latest statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), the value of construction work done in the third quarter of 2022 surged 23.2% compared to the corresponding quarter’s RM30.5 billion. Azhan said: “While this is good news for the Malaysian construction industry, it is also evident that this growth has brought with it an array of challenges, such as labour shortages, inflationary pressures, rising costs of materials and increasing supply chain disruptions, among others. This in turn has contributed to many project delays.” He intends to improve the Malaysian construction industry’s competitiveness through its RCM solution so it does not resort to recruiting even more foreign labour to surmount these issues, but instead moves to higher productivity and value-added digital processes, creating more jobs for locals. Benefits of Sivdio’s RCM solution include the capability to monitor project progress without the need for onsite visits. The software solution can also be integrated with common project management software such as Procore, Autodesk BIM 360 and Autodesk Revit, allowing managers to validate scheduled events with visual data. The RCM software allows users to capture and synchronise images and videos from various devices with the data streams captured and stored from onsite video cameras, allowing engineers and managers who may not always be onsite to get a better idea of a particular challenge or issue. This capability is supported by reporting tools which allow users to create detailed reports with multiple images selected from various IP CCTV cameras installed at a project site. The RCM software also enables authorised users to view reports on productivity utilising automated sensors and tools that can track a contractor’s activity; health and safety: monitoring unsafe activity (such as employees not wearing hardhats); and theft prevention. Azhan added that it wants to encourage the use of visual data to provide a more organised planning and execution process during the pre-, during-, and post-construction phases. “This is aligned with the National Construction Policy 2030 and the National 4IR Policy. The ability to capture, store and then intelligently utilise visual data has increased over the past few years, alongside the ongoing growth of cloud computing, but not all Malaysian construction and engineering businesses have been able to keep up with these developments. We hope to contribute to the ongoing endeavour to digitally transform Malaysia’s construction and engineering industries,” he said. Jelatek, off Jalan Ampang, near the embassy row as well as KLCC. The project has a total gross development value of RM1.08 billion, which consists of Phase 1 (Block A) and Phase 2 (Block B) with a total of 472 units. Tan disclosed that Block A, which is slated to be completed by the end of Q3’22, comprised of 270 units and has a 95% take up rate. Adding, that Block B, is expected to be completed in Q4’24. “(The take-up for Tower B) is quite promising, about 20-30%. Along the next few months we have a lot of events planned to launch and promote the property.” Picasso Residences units range from 1,013 sq ft to 2,480 sq ft, with prices between RM1.4 million to RM2.4 million. On buyer demographics, he remarked that its main target are expatriates with families who wish to live in the central business district (CBD) areas. “We are focusing on family-oriented. If you see most property developer especially in the vicinity of CBD, they will focus on studio units, which is not our market segmentation, that is why most of our units are starting with 1,000 sq ft above, so we are looking at those suburban expatriates who have a small family and who wants to live in the city within the cbd area but get away from the hustle and bustle of the city,” he said. Tan added that its buyers comprise of locals (20%), Singaporeans (30%) and the rest were from China as well as Hong Kong. On outlook, Tan said that the real estate market has been quite on a downturn for the last three years, especially with current market sentiment. The company was formerly a subsidiary of PRG Holdings Bhd but has since changed to become an “individually-owned entity” Separately, Innoventive Consultancy Sdn Bhd CEO David Hew said that its online platform Innobricks, offers potential buyers to purchase units using cryptocurrency - a tool for foreigners to purchase properties in Malaysia. “We are linked with Visa, Master, UnionPay and we are the first to accept cryptocurrencies – tether USDT (US dollar data),” said Hew.

13 * SUNBIZ theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME Nova MSC, Theta Edge form alliance oThey’ll collaborate to promote healthcare, public sector and applied AI solutions and products in Malaysia and other Asean countries KUALA LUMPUR: Nova MSC Bhd yesterday entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Theta Edge Bhd to collaborate on marketing and promotion of healthcare, public sector and applied artificial intelligence (AI) solutions and products in Malaysia and other Asean countries. Theta, a member of Tabung Haji Group, is a Bursa Malaysia Main Market-listed company focusing on information communication and technology services and the telecommunication engineering industry. The MoU intends to set out the general understanding of Nova MCS and Theta in relation to their strategic alliance. A filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday showed that Nova MSC will play the role as a technology partner to Theta, jointly assessing or deciding the solution, architecture, suitability of technical components and interoperability with third-party systems or the existing IT infrastructure. Theta, meanwhile, will develop a mutually acceptable business plan for the products in Malaysia and other Asean countries, together with marketing and commercial plans with delivery timelines. Nova MSC will also take the lead in technical sales, pre-sales and sales activities to support Theta. This includes – but is not limited to – end-user training, technical assistance and support services upon the successful award of a project. Theta’s additional roles and responsibilities include providing expertise to guide Nova MSC to understand the requirements for positioning the products and taking the lead on business development, marketing and promotion of the products in Malaysia and other Asean countries. Nova MSC’s group CEO Lai Teik Kin, said: “We look forward to establishing a fruitful relationship with Theta Group, which is one of the pioneers in the ICT industry in Malaysia. We believe that the collaboration will help to provide a win-win situation for both companies and help us to expand our businesses in the healthcare, public sector and applied AI business in Malaysia and other Asean countries.” Theta Edge group CEO Nuraslina Zainal Abidin said: “We are positive that this collaboration brings together the respective domain expertise of each party to expand its offerings in digital and technology transformation. “This is timely as we move into an age of fast-paced technologies, a new dimension that will pave the way for digital transformation across every industry and market.” Both Nova MSC and Theta are well-known for their technical expertise. Nova MSC is a leading provider of ready-todeploy and industry-focused application software and services for both the government and the healthcare sectors, with an international track record. Theta specifically, has expertise in two main industries; technology which revolves in information technology, green energy, healthcare and technology solutions apart to the telecommunication engineering industry. According to Lai, the priority of the MoU is to deepen cooperation between Nova MSC and Theta with the main objective of a long-term strategic partnership to collaborate in opportunities in Malaysia and opening new markets in other Asean countries. “Our priority is to build on this cooperation between the two of us as we believe we could leverage our areas of strength to expand our business in Malaysia and other Asean countries. “We are confident that a long-term strategic partnership and collaboration with Theta will put us on an accelerated path to growth and expansion over the next five years,” he said. The MoU will remain in force for 12 months, and both parties have agreed to enter into commercial discussions at a later stage to determine the sharing of revenue derived from the collaboration. JOHOR BAHRU: The Johor Bahru City Council (MBJB) has identified 30 areas under its administration which are saddled with the highest property tax arrears amounting to RM177 million. JB Mayor Datuk Mohd Noorazam Osman (pic) said the areas include Country Garden Danga Bay, R&F Tanjung Puteri, Bandar Baru Permas Jaya, Stulang, Taman Bayu Puteri, Taman Cahaya Kota Masai, Taman Setia Tropika and Taman Megah Ria. “MBJB will focus on enforcement action on the 30 main areas with the highest amount of arrears. “The holdings involved are of the commercial type, 68% of which are serviced apartments and office shops, followed by housing (23%) and industrial (three per cent) units,” he said when presiding over the MBJB full board meeting at its headquarters here yesterday. He said if the arrears are not dealt with, it would slow down development and infrastructure programmes, maintenance of public facilities and the provision of municipal services. Therefore, he called on the errant parties to be responsible by paying off tax arrears and stated that MBJB is always open to negotiations with taxpayers in resolving arrears. Meanwhile, Mohd Noorazam said MBJB collected RM425.07 million in revenue last year, while total expenditure was RM378.62 million. On bazaar sites, he said MBJB had received applications for 50 bazaar sites for Ramadan and Aidilfitri involving 2,793 lots this year. “MBJB will call the organisers soon for a briefing on licensing and cleanliness,“ he added. Bernama Labuan outlines strategy to attract foreign investors LABUAN: Labuan Corp has outlined short and long-term plans to attract foreign investors to the international business and financial centre of Labuan. Its CEO Rithuan Ismail said among the plans that the agency is taking is to establish closer cooperation with all investment agencies as well as in the economic corridor of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines East Asean Growth Area. “Through this strategic collaboration, promotion for investment opportunities in Labuan can be utilised especially in targeted industries such as oil and gas, international business and financial centre and tourism,” he said on Bernama TV’s programme, The Brief, in conjunction with Federal Territory Day yesterday. Rithuan said the approach in the plan also focuses on simplifying the approval process and reducing the bureaucracy of project implementation, holding dialogue sessions and engagement sessions with business chambers, investors and industry players more often by involving agencies such as the Ministry of International Trade and Industry, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, embassies and foreign high commissions in Malaysia. “This is to find a solution to the Standing are Theta Edge technology business transformation head Robert Lye Weng Tuck (left) and Nova MSC general manager Nazeroll Kasim; seated are Nuraslina and Lai. Asian Supply Base Labuan is one of Malaysia’s largest supply bases for the oil and gas industry. Oil and gas is one of the targeted industries in Labuan Corp’s strategy to woo foreign investors. – BERNAMAPIC Johor Bahru mayor: 30 areas with property tax arrears totalling RM177m identified challenges faced by investors in project implementation,” he explained. Rithuan said the plan also focuses on studying the potential of foreign investment and strengthening local investment by requesting Malaysia External Trade Development Corp’s assistance to increase global market access by integrating local companies into global chains through strategic collaboration in various international trade/exhibition platforms. Another strategy is to provide commercial and industrial areas with the involvement of local subsidiaries and developers to provide services to potential investors who are interested in investing in Labuan. Rithuan said further efforts in the promotion of investment opportunities through advertising in print or electronic media within and outside the country will be implemented; participation in exhibitions related to investments at the domestic and international level; and organise at least one expo/exhibition a year related to investment in collaboration with agencies under the Federal Territories Department. – Bernama

14 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SUNBIZ @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME Asia’s factory activity in January contracts: Surveys and stubbornly high inflation, some analysts say. “The worst of Asia’s downturn is behind, but the outlook is clouded by weaknesses in major export destinations like the United States and Europe,” said Toru Nishihama, chief economist at Dai-ichi Life Research Institute in Tokyo. “With the recovery from Covid-19 under way, Asian economies need a new growth engine. There isn’t one so far.” China’s Caixin/S&P Global manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) nudged up to 49.2 in January from 49.0 in the previous month, staying below the 50 mark that separates growth from contraction for a sixth straight month. The data was contrasted with a better-thanexpected official PMI survey issued on Tuesday. But whereas the official PMI largely focuses on big and state-owned Chinese businesses, the Caixin survey centres on small firms and coastal regions. Japan’s au Jibun Bank PMI stood at 48.9 in January, unchanged from the previous month, as manufacturers felt the pain from weak global demand. But supplier delays were less prevalent than at any time since February 2021, while input and output price inflation were the slowest in 16 months, the Japan PMI survey showed. South Korea’s factory activity contracted for a seventh straight month in January. The reading was 48.5, up from 48.2 in December but below the 50-point-threshold. While new orders in South Korea shrank for a seventh straight month in January, the rate of decline was slightly slower than a month earlier, the survey showed. “The immediate outlook for the South Korean manufacturing sector appears challenging,” said Usamah Bhatti, economist at S&P Global Market Intelligence. “That said, firms remained confident that global economic conditions would improve and stimulate demand.” Factory activity expanded in January in Indonesia and the Philippines but shrank in Malaysia and Taiwan, PMI surveys showed. India’s manufacturing industry started the year on a weaker note, expanding at the slowest pace in three months in January as output and sales growth slackened. – Reuters oChina reopening fails to offset headwinds from slowing US and European growth Gautam Adani loses Asia’s richest crown as stock rout deepens BENGALURU/NEW DELHI: Shares in Indian tycoon Gautam Adani’s conglomerate plunged again yesterday as a rout in his companies deepened to US$84 billion (RM356.7 billion) in the wake of a US short-seller report, with the billionaire also losing his title as Asia’s richest person. Yesterday’s stock losses saw Adani slip to 15th on Forbes rich list with an estimated net worth of US$76.8 billion, below rival Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries Ltd who ranks ninth with a net worth of US$83.6 billion. Before the critical report by US short-seller Hindenburg, Adani had ranked third. The losses mark a dramatic setback for Adani, the school-dropout-turned-billionaire whose business interests stretch from ports and airports to mining and cement. Now, the tycoon is fighting to stabilise his businesses and defend his reputation. It comes just a day after the group managed to muster support from investors for a US$2.5 billion share sale for flagship firm Adani Enterprises on Tuesday, in what some saw as a stamp of investor confidence. The report by Hindenburg Research last week alleged improper use by the Adani Group of offshore tax havens and stock manipulation. It also raised concerns about high debt and the valuations of seven listed Adani companies. The group has denied the allegations, saying the short-seller’s narrative of stock manipulation has “no basis” and stems from an ignorance of Indian law. It has always made the necessary regulatory disclosures, it added. Shares in Adani Enterprises, often described as the incubator of Adani businesses, plunged 30% yesterday. Adani Power fell 5%, while Adani Total Gas slumped 10%, down by its daily price limit. Adani Transmission was down 6% and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone dropped 20%. Adani Total Gas, a joint venture with France’s Total, has been the biggest casualty of the short seller report, losing about US$27 billion. “There was a slight bounce yesterday (Tuesday) after the share sale went through, after seeming improbable at a point, but now the weak market sentiment has become visible again after the bombshell Hindenburg report,” said Ambareesh Baliga, a Mumbai-based independent market analyst. – Reuters SK Hynix registers biggest ever quarterly operating loss SEOUL: South Korea’s SK Hynix Inc cautioned that the chip industry downturn, the worst in over a decade, will deepen further in the next few months as it posted a record quarterly operating loss yesterday. Market conditions will gradually improve later this year as chipmakers cut supply in response to the drop in global tech demand and clients buy chips again at low prices, said SK Hynix, the world’s No. 2 memory chipmaker after Samsung Electronics. “The recent drop in memory prices is the largest since the fourth quarter of 2008 ... industry-wide inventory is probably at an all-time high,” SK Hynix’s finance chief, Woohyun Kim, said in an earnings call. He expects inventory levels to peak during the first quarter before gradually declining as chipmakers reduce production, improving supply-and-demand conditions in the second half. SK Hynix flagged lower chip prices in the current quarter. Shares of the company closed up 3.3%, underpinned by hopes of a recovery later in 2023, versus the wider benchmark’s 1% rise. For the fourth quarter ended December, SK Hynix swung to a worse-than-expected 1.7 trillion won (RM5.06 billion) operating loss, from 4.2 trillion won profit a year earlier. The quarterly loss is the biggest since SK Group acquired Hynix in 2012. Analysts had expected a 1.3 trillion won operating loss, according to Refinitiv SmartEstimate. The global technology industry has been battling a sharp and sudden downturn in demand since late 2022, as companies cut spending on tech products and services while consumers spend less on discretionary goods amid surging inflation. At its earnings call, SK Hynix said it will focus its resources on advanced chips to prepare for a market upturn in 2024. It had a free cash flow deficit of 4.23 trillion won as of end-2022. – Reuters B R I E F SPARTY’S OVER, FREIGHT RATES TO KEEP FALLING: HAPAG LLOYD CEO HAMBURG: Container freight rates will keep declining in the current realignment of shipping demand and supply, said the chief executive of Germany’s liner Hapag Lloyd, the world’s number five by transport capacity. “The party is over. We are back to a normal shipping business,” CEO Rolf Habben Jansen told reporters at a briefing late on Tuesday on the state of the market. “Now we have to fight for every box again to get our ships full,“ he said. However, he expects freight rates will not fall below costs, which were being kept high by expensive charter rates, high fuel costs and the need to adjust fleets to running on low carbon fuel. The company reported preliminary earnings for 2022, with earnings before interest and taxes up by 86% year-onyear to €17.5 billion (RM80.6 billion).– Reuters HONG KONG’S GDP SHRINKS FOR FOURTH STRAIGHT QUARTER HONG KONG: Hong Kong’s economy shrank for the fourth straight quarter, contracting an annual 4.2%, advance government data showed yesterday, as weakening global demand and higher interest rates hit exports and spending. Economists from Morgan Stanley, DBS, Hang Seng Bank and Natixis expected gross domestic product (GDP) to contract between 2.8% and 3.1%. The city’s economy shrank a revised 4.6% in the third quarter. The Hong Kong economy is expected to show a recovery in 2023, the government said. On a seasonally adjusted quarterly basis, the economy remained virtually unchanged in the OctoberDecember period compared with a 2.6% contraction in the third quarter. For the whole of 2022, GDP shrank 3.5%. The Asian financial hub has been battered by its own pandemic measures and also spillover from China's zero-Covid policies, but recovering consumer spending on the mainland and a rebound in travel are expected to help the economy this year.– Reuters EXXONMOBIL POSTS RECORD 2022 PROFIT OF US$55.7B NEW YORK: ExxonMobil reported record annual profits of US$55.7 billion (RM236.5 billion) in 2022 on Tuesday, reflecting higher commodity prices amid recovering demand and the impacts of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In the fourth quarter, profit rose 43.7% to US$12.8 billion, thanks to higher oil and natural gas prices and better refining margins compared with the year-ago period. Revenue from October through December rose 12.3% to US$95.4 billion. – AFP Jokowi ‘confident’ Tesla will invest in Indonesia JAKARTA: Indonesian President Joko Widodo is confident Tesla Inc will finalise a deal to invest in a production facility in his country, having offered the US carmaker incentives ranging from tax breaks to a concession to mine nickel. Southeast Asia’s largest economy has been wooing Tesla to invest in battery and car manufacturing since 2020, seeking to leverage its rich reserves of nickel ore, which can be processed for use in electric-vehicle (EV) batteries. The president, widely known as Jokowi, has held talks with Tesla chief executive Elon Musk twice, meeting him in person at his SpaceX facility in Texas last year and a telephone call, to try to secure a deal. “I said to him that if you invest in Indonesia, I will give the concession of nickel,” Jokowi said, referring to Indonesia’s offer of a mining concession. Other incentives include tax breaks and a subsidy scheme on EV purchases to build a market for Tesla in the world’s fourth most populous country, he said, adding that his ministers were finalising the subsidies. The president said he was “confident” Indonesia had the edge over other countries Tesla might be considering for investment because it has the largest nickel reserves and a big domestic market. Jokowi said it was up to Tesla to take up the offer to mine nickel, underlining that Indonesia is open to investment in the EV battery and electric car supply chain. “If they want to start from EV battery, it’s OK,” he added. Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Tesla is looking for an additional manufacturing hub. The company currently manufactures EVs in four locations: Fremont, California; Shanghai; Austin, Texas and outside Berlin. If Tesla were to invest in battery production in Indonesia, it would be its first facility of that kind in Asia. Last month, the company announced a US$3.6 billion (RM15.2 billion) investment to expand battery production at its Nevada factory. – Reuters TOKYO: Asia’s factory activity contracted in January as the boost from China’s Covid reopening had yet to offset headwinds from slowing US and European growth, surveys showed yesterday, underscoring the fragility of the region’s economic recovery. China’s factory activity shrank more slowly in January after Beijing lifted tough Covid curbs late last year, a private sector survey showed. Softening input-price pressures also offered initial positive signs for Asia, with the pace of contraction in output slowing in Japan and South Korea, the surveys showed. But there is uncertainty about whether Asia can weather the hit from slowing global demand Adani addressing delegates during the Bengal Global Business Summit in Kolkata, India, on April 20, 2022. Yesterday’s stock losses saw Adani slip to 15th on Forbes rich list with an estimated net worth of US$76.8 billion – REUTERSPIC

2 F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 3 T H U R S D A Y A Mediterranean romance MARKED as the most romantic day of the year in calendars all over the world, Feb 14 – Valentine’s Day – is coming up. Presenting travel experiences that will always be remembered, Türkiye offers uniquely romantic destinations for couples on Feb 14. Options to create new Valentine’s Day traditions include İstanbul, the capital of culture, Cappadocia, a rare blend of history and nature, Kars, the hidden pearl of Eastern Anatolia and irince, the famous touristic village of Selçuk, İzmir. İstanbul: Romantic Sights of a Cosmopolitan City İstanbul is certainly among the most romantic cities in the world and a wonderful destination for a memorable Valentine’s Day experience. İstanbul offers a majestic backdrop for any celebration. Almost every corner of the city features unique places and landmarks that blend gorgeous landscapes with nature and history. İstiklal Street, the Galata Tower and the Galata Bridge, Pierre Loti Hill and the Basilica Cistern, Rumeli Fortress, Çamlıca Hill, Emirgan Grove, Anadolu Kavağı and the stunning Bosphorus are just a few of the spots where you can enjoy poetic views and the city’s deep history. The meeting point of Asia and Europe, İstanbul offers the perfect setting for romantic Valentine’s Day dining, with Michelin-starred restaurants and countless other establishments that cater to guests with modern and sophisticated tastes. Cappadocia: A Romantic Break in a Fairy-tale Land With its surreal landscape and authentic cave hotels, Cappadocia is another stellar option for a Valentine’s Day holiday. This fascinating ‘fairy tale’ land introduces an unforgettable setting for romance, featuring colourful hot air balloons, mysterious cultural sites and ancient winemaking traditions. You can start Valentine’s Day early with a romantic sunrise tour in a hot air balloon. oDiscover which are Türkiye’s most romantic spots to visit on Valentine’s Day Cappadocia Balloon Fest The ancient city of Ani Urgup Town Istanbul’s iconic Martyrs Bridge Launching from the village of Göreme around five o’clock in the morning, hot air balloon flights offer impressive aerial views of the famed Cappadocian geography – fairy chimneys, rock formations, and the Pigeon, Zemi and Pa aba Priests valleys, among other sights. The next stop of the day can be the Göreme Open Air Museum, which is on the Unesco World Heritage list, and the region’s spellbinding underground cities. Crown your Valentine’s Day trip by staying in a cave hotel, where you can experience the area’s traditional stone and rock-carved architecture in comfort and luxury updated with modern conveniences. Make the evening even more special with a glass of local wine in front of the fireplace. Kars: Anatolia’s Hidden Love Paradise Especially evocative in winter, the city of Kars offers an entirely different Valentine’s Day trip in a unique atmosphere featuring historical destinations, natural beauties and local delicacies. You can travel to this enchanting snow-draped city on the Touristic Eastern Express, a remarkable journey by train starting from Ankara, the capital of Türkiye. The train passes through Kırıkkale, Kayseri, Sivas, Erzincan and Erzurum, revealing natural beauty and historical train stations on the way to Kars. When you reach the Kars city centre, the Baltic-style architecture will evoke the feeling of a European city. After exploring the timeless structures of the Ancient City of Ani, which is on the Unesco World Heritage List, you can visit Sarıkamı and ski in magnificent crystal snow. On Çıldır Lake, which typically freezes over in the winter, you and your partner can enjoy romantic walks and sleigh rides, as well as watch fishermen break the ice to catch mirror carp. Şirince-Ephesus: The Most Romantic Route of the Aegean If you find a warmer climate more appealing for Valentine’s Day, Şirince Village in İzmir, the pearl of the Aegean, attracts attention with its deep-rooted history and storybook architectural texture. On a romantic trip to irince, you can stroll along narrow streets lined with historical houses and then visit the Ancient City of Ephesus, just 10km from the village and a Unesco World Heritage Site. The ancient city reveals high-level urbanisation, architecture and religious history from different civilisations. During this special holiday, where love and sensuality are experienced to the fullest, you can spend the evening in front of a roaring fire, sipping on the delicious fruit wines of this region – a land prominent in ancient legends.

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Bad Boys team up for fourth film LESS than one year after dishing out his worldchanging slap upon Chris Rock at last year’s Oscars, it appears that all is forgiven with Will Smith. After his critically-praised turn in Anton Fuqua’s emotional historical drama Emancipation, Smith is teaming up with his old friend Martin Lawrence for a fourth Bad Boys movie. In a video shared on both stars’ Instagram accounts, Smith excitedly films himself driving somewhere. He then knocks on the door of a house, where he’s greeted by Lawrence. “Is it about that time?” his longtime co-star asks as he opens the door. “It’s about that time,” Smith says, filming the both of them, selfie-style. “It’s official! Bad Boys 4 Life, y’all!” The fourth instalment will continue a lucrative franchise for Smith and Lawrence. The series has grossed more than US$840 million (RM3.58 billion) worldwide, with a third film, titled Bad Boys For Life, released in 2020. Both Smith and Lawrence joked about that film’s title, noting that it would have been more suitable for a fourth film. “We shouldn’t have called it that,” Smith exclaimed. It was later revealed that Bad Boys 4 will be directed by the filmmaking duo of Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who also directed the third film. – by Anansa Jacob Lawrence (left) and Smith first starred together in 1995. – AFP/GETTY KARA’s fan meeting sold out VETERAN K-pop girl group KARA made a huge comeback at the end of last year with the release of their new album Move Again, seven years after their last mini album, 2015’s In Love. The five members – Park Gyuri, Han Seungyeon, Heo Young-ji, Nicole, and Kang Ji-young – released the new album in conjunction with their 15th anniversary as a group, much to the delight of fans. Nicole and Kang had parted ways from the group in 2014. In the coming weeks, KARA will be holding its first international fan meeting for Move Again in three cities across Japan – Osaka, Fukuoka and Yokohama. Tickets for all locations were sold out almost as soon as they went on sale on Jan 28, proving that despite it being years since their last visit to the country, Japanese fans are still just as eager to see KARA in action. Their song When I Move in their album reached the top of the Top 100 real-time music video chart on Japanese music site, Line Music. – by S. Tamarai Chelvi KARA’s return was well-received. – DSPMEDIA Moment of redemption? J AMES GUNN has sung praises for the upcoming The Flash movie, which is set to hit theatres on June 16. The superhero film was mostly completed before its lead actor Ezra Miller became embroiled in months of scandalous headlines resulting from a string of dangerous behaviour that included erratic social media rants, arrests and court appearances. Gunn, who is now co-CEO of Warner Bros.’ DC Studios, told reporters on Tuesday that The Flash is “one of the greatest superhero movies ever made”. He added that the film’s storyline “resets everything” for the ailing franchise. On Miller and the actor’s future with the studio, DC Studio’s other co-CEO Peter Safran claimed that the actor – who uses they/them pronouns – is completely committed to recovery. “We are fully supportive of that journey they are on right now. When the time is right, when they are ready to have that discussion, we will all figure out what the best path forward.” “But right now,“ he continued, “they are completely focused on their recovery. And in our conversation with them, in the last couple of months, it feels like they are making enormous progress.” The studio had been faced with a difficult choice as Miller’s behaviour threatened to Gunn (left) called The Flash one of the ‘greatest’ superhero films ever made. – REUTERS/WARNER BROS. PICTURES oEzra Miller drama aside, it appears that all is well with The Flash solo film, which gets the seal of approval from James Gunn Alec Baldwin charged over Rust set death ACTOR Alec Baldwin and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed were charged yesterday with involuntary manslaughter in connection with the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The charge carries a possible sentence of 18 months in jail if found guilty. On Oct 21, 2021, Hutchins was killed on the set of the Western film Rust in New Mexico, while director Joel Souza was injured by a bullet from a gun Baldwin was carrying while they rehearsed a scene at a chapel. Since then, the actor has vigorously disputed that he fired the shot that ultimately killed Hutchins. Baldwin and Gutierrez-Reed have both blamed each other for the incident, as have others. Gutierrez-Reed has accused Baldwin of being distracted during her training on handling guns. Meanwhile, Baldwin’s attorneys have filed a countersuit against Gutierrez-Reed, accusing her of failing to identify the live round. Robert Shilling, an investigator for the district attorney’s office, explained the ways that prosecutors contend the actor had acted carelessly on set. They said he had inadequate weapons training, had ignored safety concerns on set, had pulled the trigger of a real gun when a dummy or rubber gun should have been used, and had pointed the rifle towards the director and cinematographer of the movie. Baldwin has insisted that he did not fire the fatal bullet. – AFP Baldwin’s case is remarkable in that there is little or no precedent for a Hollywood actor to face criminal charges for an on-set shooting. While Baldwin and his representatives have yet to comment publicly on the charges, in a television interview last year, he stated that “someone is responsible for what happened, and I can’t say who that is, but I know it’s not me.” Meanwhile, the actors’s wife Hilaria Baldwin recently commented on the charges, saying: “It’s been an emotional time for my family.” – by Thashine Selvakumaran tank the box-office performance of the film, which reportedly had a US$200 million (RM853.2 million) price tag. Scrapping or reshooting The Flash proved impossible, but after a surprise – and highly secretive – meeting with Warner Bros. executives last August, Miller apologised for their behaviour, explaining that they would seek treatment for mental health issues. Earlier this January, Miller pleaded guilty to misdemeanour unlawful trespass for an incident that happened May 1 last year. The felony burglary and larceny charges were dismissed without prejudice, meaning the case is closed if the actor’s year-long probation is not violated. The Flash is directed by Andy Muschietti, the director of the It films. A previously released teaser trailer for the film highlighted Michael Keaton’s return to the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman, decades after playing the part in two Tim Burton films. Ben Affleck is also expected to show up in the movie as Batman. – by Mark Mathen Victor

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME The Boys take over television MARVEL Studios may undoubtedly dominate the superhero genre on the big screen due to a lack of competition, but Amazon Prime now clearly wears television’s superhero crown as The Boys was declared 2022’s most popular superhero show. According to the Nielsen ratings, audiences watched 10.6 billion The Seven is basically a clever parody of DC’s Justice League. – AMAZON PRIME oThe Boys an entertaining deep dive into what happens when superheroes drunk on their own self importance, go bad █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Karl Urban’s Butcher (far left) is an angry and flawed man out to get revenge on the leader of The Seven, Homelander. – AMAZON PRIME minutes of Amazon Prime’s The Boys, the 11th most-watched original streaming show of 2022. Taking the top spot on the list is Netflix’s Stranger Things with 52 billion minutes watched, followed by fellow Netflix shows Ozark (31.3 billion), Wednesday (18.6 billion), Cobra Kai (16.7 billion) and Bridgerton (14 billion) to round out the top five. Netflix dominates Nielsen’s list of top 15 streaming originals, taking 13 spots. Amazon Prime’s The Boys and Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power are the only non-Netflix properties on the list. Over at Disney+, the streamer’s superhero shows failed to crack the top 15 original streaming series for 2022. The platform released Moon Knight, Ms. Marvel and She-Hulk: Attorney at Law last year, none of which were able to secure a spot on Nielsen’s list. This is despite Rotten Tomatoes crowning Ms. Marvel 2022’s bestreviewed superhero show, and the viral elements that came from each episode of She-Hulk. The last time a Marvel show made Nielsen’s end-of-the year list was in 2021 when WandaVision placed 14th with 7.3 billion minutes watched. Call it audiences – or television audiences – having superhero fatigue due to the oversaturation, but the shift of attention and interest towards The Boys makes sense; it’s far more mature, a parody of mainstream superhero media, a satire of politics and corporations, and does not take itself seriously. The third season of The Boys, which saw the introduction of Jensen Ackles to an already strong cast, was lauded by critics and fans. It’s success has led to Amazon ordering a spinoff, Gen-V, which will be set concurrently with the fourth season. Season 4 of The Boys is currently in production at Amazon Prime, with Simon Pegg recently announcing that he has concluded filming his scenes for the fourth season. In the meantime, fans can stream the first three seasons of The Boys on Amazon Prime. Shyamalan weights in on Hollywood FROM The Sixth Sense to Old, director M. Night Shyamalan has had a unique string of hits, but these days he works outside the Hollywood studio system, which he says has grown “sick”. Balancing art and commerce has always been the great game of Hollywood and few have played it as well as Shyamalan, who returns to cinemas with the apocalyptic horror, Knock at the Cabin. Still just 52, he has been cranking out box office hits every couple of years since the iconic The Sixth Sense in 1999, through Unbreakable, Signs, Split and many more. They have been almost entirely original, rarely based on pre-existing franchises or superhero characters that the major studios now rely upon. Watching how Hollywood has evolved in that time has left him deeply disillusioned. “If you look at the industry right now ... there are movies that feel incestuous, they’re just masturbatory ... It’s just Hollywood talking to themselves,” he told AFP. “And then there are movies where they’re saying: the audience is dumb so we’re going to take all the soul out and we’re just going to do it by numbers,” he said. “These are signs of complete dysfunction.” He looks back in wonder at his breakthrough year in 1999, when studios backed several highly original films such as American Beauty, Magnolia, Being John Malkovich and The Insider. “The industry was different then. It was aimed at – how do you get the best storytellers to tell stories for the widest audience? That’s not the case now,“ Shyamalan said. Huge risks His response has been to go it alone, US filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan have criticized tinsel town as being dysfunctional. – AFP: even if that means giving up on big budgets. “I found the only way is to leave the system and pay for it myself ... to make small movies but take huge risks – not having to ask whether they like having a gay couple at the centre, or whether I should hire a wrestler ...” he said. “This is my way of staying healthy after spending a long time in a kind of sick industry,” he added. Knock at the Cabin stars former wrestler Dave Bautista in the story of a family isolated in the woods who are suddenly taken hostage by an armed group and told they must sacrifice one of their own to avert the apocalypse. At the core, said Shyamalan, is a question that resonates in our “posttruth era”: do we trust each other? “Does the husband believe in the other husband? Do they believe what the strangers are saying? Do we believe in our society and what we’re seeing?” And of course, being a Shyamalan film, there are plenty of twists, which he still loves to write. “That’s the fun part!” he said. “Even until late in the writing of the movie I was like, how many times can I flip you back and forth? “Because I had thought of another way, and I was worried the audience are going to get whiplash if I do one more”. – ETX Studio Everything Everywhere All at Once tops Oscars with 11 nods SURREAL sci-fi Everything Everywhere All At Once topped the Oscar nominations last week with 11, as Hollywood formally kicked off the race to the all-important Academy Awards. It was followed by the German anti-war movie All Quiet on the Western Front and Irish black comedy The Banshees of Inisherin, which each received nine nominations from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. As expected, Academy voters also rewarded blockbusters such as Tom Cruise’s Top Gun: Maverick and Avatar: The Way of Water for helping to bring audiences back to movie theatres after the pandemic. Both were nominated for best picture, Tinseltown’s most coveted prize, although another crowdpleaser – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever – missed out. The remaining best picture slots went to the rock-and-roll biopic Elvis, Steven Spielberg’s quasi-memoir The Fabelmans, Cate Blanchett’s latest tour-deforce Tar, Cannes festival winner Triangle of Sadness and literary adaptation Women Talking. The absurdist indie film Everything Everywhere All At Once portrays a Chinese-American immigrant family undergoing a tax audit, who are quickly drawn into an inter-dimensional battle to save the multiverse from a powerful villain. It became a huge word-ofmouth hit and has grossed over US$100 million (RM424 million) worldwide. The film earned four acting nominations for its cast, including best-supporting actor for Ke Huy Quan – who appeared as a child in Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom almost four decades ago – and best lead actress for Michelle Yeoh. – ETX Studio Everything Everywhere All at Once already picked up prizes at the Critics Choice and Golden Globes awards. – AFP

18 FEATURE theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 are cherished and much-appreciated by not only the older generation but surprisingly, young women as well. If you step into the recently opened Manjal Silk store on Jalan Yeo Guan Hup in Klang, you would see both traditional and modern designs showcased on shelves. This is because young brides are attracted to both the traditional style, as well as contemporary designs. Approximately 80% of Manjal Silk young bride customers prefer opulent traditional design sarees over modern, contemporary designs. Traditional sarees require meticulous hand work for its complex design, and the classic Kanchipuram silk saree never goes out of style. This is probably why young brides tend to choose choose more traditionalstyles. However, they prefer their sarees in subtle hues of pastel colours, such as pink, lavender, blue, green and gold. About 30 to 40 years ago, most brides picked bright colours like red, which is deemed auspicious for weddings. But today’s brides prefer a saree that combines traditional design with modern colours to complement modern wedding styles and trends. Rooted in tradition Kanchipuram silk sarees are classified into four types, each with its own signature motif or design. 0 Plain Kanchipuram – subtle and elegant with no motifs or patterns but with a simple gold silk thread hem in contrast colours that are usually vibrant. In recent years, soft pastelcoloured sarees have been the most desired. It is suitable for formal or informal events and is timeless due to its sheer elegance and could be worn even a decade later and still look good. 0 Modern Kanchipuram silk – has innovative and creative designs and comes in a wide range of colours from gold to pastels. It is preferred by youths due to its unique contemporary design and attractive colour combinations that go well with women who prefer to stand out. 0 Floral Kanchipuram silk – has floral, paisley or geometric motifs. 0 Temple Kanchipuram silk – has an intricate design with details, is weaved with pure silk and gold thread hems and although it takes days to weave one, the results are absolutely stunning. Elegant traditional Kanchipuram silk sarees are perfect for brides for weddings and temple or house puja (prayers), and are usually conisdered a prized possession. Motifs inspired by nature In the olden days, the weavers were inspired by their environment – the beauty of nature, mythological stories, majestic ancient temples, its architecture and the carvings on the pillars in Kanchipuram city, which is known as the “City of a Thousand Temples” for its temples, 1,000 pillared halls, huge towers (gopuram), which inspired Gopuram designs – triangle silhouettes on a saree hem. Another is the Yali design, which is based on mythological creature carvings n the pillars. Weavers are heavily influenced by the beauty of nature. For instance, the mango fruit, which grows abundantly in India, inspired a dazzling mango motif while birds like peacocks and parrots also inspired charming motifs. Perhaps the most exquisite design is the Vanasingaram (heavenly forest), which is a beautiful ensemble of flora and fauna in an elegant and graceful pattern. Wrapped up in tradition oDespite being known as one of the world’s oldest fabrics, Kanchipuram silk sarees are popular among the younger generation S AREES have been traditionally worn by Indian women for over a century, and yet their aesthetic beauty has never failed to impress. The saree, one of the oldest attire for women, has a timeless quality. Sarees are worn by Indian women of all ages for special occasions, and are a must-have for any South Indian wardrobe, especially for weddings. Saree fabrics are hand-woven, called handlooms, while machinemade sarees are called power-loom sarees. For a time, the handloom industry was facing challenges to its sustainability due to a decline in demand, among other factors. But in the last few years, interest shown by the current generation has tremendously brought back the love for sarees, perhaps owing to the influence of social media. Instagram and Facebook have opened up to a whole new world of sarees, featuring various types and drape styles, creating awareness and appreciation for the garment. Sarees come in a wide range of fabrics like organza, chiffon, linen, silk, satin and even blended fabrics. But the most beautiful of all, hands down, are the Kanchipuram sarees. Considered a masterpiece, a Kanchipuram saree is synonymous with stunning craftsmanship and superior quality fabric. Its name originates from the Kanchipuram region in Tamil Nadu, where the sarees were first made. The fabrics are hand-woven in the traditional way, with mulberry silk threads and pure gold or silver threads on the hem, or Zari, using wooden handloom tools just as it was done in olden times. Weavers are mostly from the older generation, with refined skills in weaving methods and vast experience gained over decades. It takes days, sometimes weeks, to produce one saree. But the resulting product would be impeccable. Intricate in detail, soft in texture with the finest quality fabric meant to last for generations, Kanchipuram sarees are commonly handed down as a family heirloom. The changing colours In the past, Kanchipuram or Kanjivaram sarees had striking colour palettes with usually contrast colours on the border or the blouse (choli), but these have changed in recent years. Sarees have evolved over the years with the rise of fashion boutiques, creating innovative designs and patterns paired with fascinating colour shades. In addition, designs from highend or haute couture fashion like colour blocking and ruffles have influenced saree designs. Despite the changing trends every year, the traditional design never fades. Most saree manufacturers have retained traditional designs as they █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI Some of the details of the prints depict animals or geometric designs. A selection of Kanchipuram sarees. The inside of the Manjal Silk store. Colourful sarees at Manjal Silk. A pastel pink saree at Manjal Silk.

19 FEATURE theSun LYFE ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 One of the most significant achievements of his career was making a gold Sri Shenbaavalli Amman statue for a temple in Singapore. However, making a divine statue is not at all like crafting any other sculpture. According to Radhakrishnan, it involves certain rituals that include prayers and the recitation of slokas (Sanskrit verses) before starting the work, as the artist is not just working with his hands but with undivided concentration of the mind. As such, the artist has to be completely focused, and go into sort of a meditative state during the process, and it could take days to finish one statue. However, that is not the only challenge. Radhakrishnan recalls making a statue of Lord Nadarajah in a dancing pose, with the figure standing on the left leg while the right leg is turned upwards, with the hands to the side. “It is one of the most difficult statues for any sculptor because the right leg does not touch the ground, but the structure of the statue has to be balanced,” he said, adding that the complexity also extends to facial expressions and complicated hand gestures. Apart from this, drawing and painting on the ceilings are also very challenging for him. “Drawing on the ceiling is difficult because I have to draw and paint upside down, with my face looking up at the ceiling for hours and sometimes, for days, and this impacts my backbone.” But despite suffering from back pain, Radhakrishnan says he enjoys his work. Unique temple design Before building a temple, the architect must consider the position and direction of the temple based on the “Vastu Shastra” (traditional Indian architecture), calculations and measurements of every structure, including the vimana. A temple comprises several areas – a main prayer hall or sanctuary dedicated the main deity, a smaller temple surrounding the main temples, a tower, a navagraha temple, a mandapam (hall) and others. “Everything is calculated in terms of the number of statues, the right “avatars” of the gods and goddesses with distinctive features, and the directions and positions of the divine statues,” said Radhakrishnan. “For example, the direction and position of the Sun God and Moon God. But most of the time, you would find Ganesha, Muruga, Shiva and Amman on the gopuram.“ The selection of statues may vary from one temple to another. “Different sides of the gopuram would be facing different directions and would feature different divine statues, and it must relate to the main deity worshipped in the main temple.” Sometimes, significant stories of the gods are depicted in paintings or sculptures on the brightly coloured and richly decorated towers. “Every detail on sculptures and paintings has a meaning. For example, the number of hands on Goddess Kali and the details of the religiously symbolic items she carries, her attire, her facial expression, and her hand and leg movements and gestures,” he added. “The measurements of these statues, including its height and weight, has to be accurate.” Apart from statues, artists often create religious symbols and mythological creatures like “Yali”, elephants and peacocks. Radhakrishnan also adds his own creativity in his designs. For the past few years, he has been supervising a team of sculptors and painters to recreate temple art. He would draw up a draft, make the marks and pick the right shades of colour and shape of each object before commencing work. He comes up with each design and motif and decides on the right location of each paintings. Currently, his team is painting the ceilings of the Sri Sakthi Easwari Temple. Repainting and sculpture work began in May and is expected to be completed by May 2023, in time for the “Kumbha Abhishegam”, a grand relaunch of the temple. F ROM detailed wood carvings on temple doors to incredible paintings on ceilings, sculptures on tall towers (gopuram), chiselled stone pillars and majestic statues, temples showcase the finest ancient artworks. Art has been an integral part of Indian culture, and ancient Hindu temples are modern-day art galleries on their own. The sculptures are carved in every material found in nature, from wood and stone, to different types of metals like gold or brass, and nature-based colours derived from botanicals are used for frescoes, murals and paintings. The Brihadeeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, built in the 10th century in Tamil Nadu, also boasts magnificent architecture, vimana (tall towers) and inscriptions that are still present even after a thousand years. In any temple building, every inch is calculated and measured precisely before construction – even the size and weight of the brass bells hanging on top of it. Thus, building a temple involves enormous calculations. We wonder how temple architects calculated a thousand years ago without advanced technology like computers or even calculators. Just imagine the level of intelligence, craftsmanship and engineering skills of the architects who were tasked with designing the interior and exterior, as well as the artisans responsible for chiselling the countless statues. A temple of fine arts There is so much complexity in choosing the right sculptures for a temple. To find out more, we met with the chief sculptor G. Radhakrishnan Sabathyar, 76. Radhakrishnan has a long list of projects under his belt. Recently, he was commissioned to remake paintings and sculptures for the Sri Sakthi Easwari Temple in Sungei Way, Selangor. He was also recognised as the Sirpa Kalanithi (Sculpture Art Master) in India by the Dharmapuram Adhina Sabathy, an organisation that recognises sculpture artists. His passion for sculpture work began in childhood, but he started his journey into the field when he was about 16 years old. He was watching his paternal grandfather craft statues at the Sempanar Koil Tharangabadi Temple in Sempanar Koil, Tamil Nadu, where he is originally from. The attractive, detailed works on the sculptures sparked his interest. Later, he received training directly from his guru, Sithambara Govindaraju Mudaliar. Under the guru’s guidance, the multi-talented artist mastered carving stone and wood statues, making statues using cement and metal, as well as painting, drawing and other related works. In addition, Radhakrishnan acquired knowledge and education in Hinduism and temple design and later trained on-site for about a decade, before embarking on his own journey as an artist. Over the past 55 years, he has created magnificent statues and eye-catching, colourful paintings on temples throughout South India, Singapore and Malaysia, and has been recognised for his outstanding work in other countries. oWe explore the history of Indian temple statues and artworks The beautiful sculptures at Sri Sakthi Easwari Temple. – ALL PIX BY HAFIZ SOHAIMI/THESUN The statues of Lord Shiva and Parvati. █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI Ceiling paintings and small figurines in a section of the temple. Radhakrishnan is regarded as a master temple sculpture and painting artist. Bringing stories to life The paintings on the ceiling depict a story. One of Radhakrishnan’s painters working on the temple ceiling.

20 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 HOST International Foundation (1354783- V) invites the submission of food and non-food items (NFIs) bids from qualified suppliers of food and hygiene items for the preparation and delivery of these items to the location provided in the RFQ document. Prospective bidders must be capable of providing food & NFI items for a one time delivery in the month of March across 5 states, namely Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang, Perak and Negeri Sembilan for a total of 1300 kits of food & NFI items. All items and delivery details are provided in the RFQ. The vendor should take into account all the following: Have good business reputation and performance, proven clean track record. Possess all relevant certificate of registration, licenses approvals and permits with the local authorities and a copy of which are to be furnished when requested. All employees, especially food and beverage handlers, are required to comply with food safety requirements. The vendor shall be able to produce a Food Safety Plan containing procedures on hygienic food storage, preparation, handling, waste management, hygiene, and pest control. Please email: malaysia@hostinternational. org.au for access to RFQ. The key dates for this tender are as follows: Tender open date : 30/01/2023 Tender closing date : 08/02/2023 Last day for bid submission : 08/02/2023 by 5pm Period of bids analyses and comparison : 3 days Date of announcing the awarded tenderer: 13/02/2023 Submission of tender bid: All bids can be submitted either online or send hard copy to our HQ address. Send by email to: malaysia@ hostinternational.org.au Send as hardcopy to the address: No 208 Block A Pusat Dagangan Phileo Damansara 1, No 9 Jalan 16/11, Off Jalan Damansara, 46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Any inquiries or questions can be sent by email to: malaysia@hostinternational. org.au Content provided by HOST International Foundation. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PERMATANG DAMAI SDN BHD (199301010561 (265298-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of PERMATANG DAMAI SDN. BHD. (199301010561 (265298-V)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Mohd Fauzi Bin Talib Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PERMATANG DAMAI SDN BHD (199301010561 (265298-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator PERMATANG DAMAI SDN BHD (199301010561 (265298-V)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI PETALING JAYA DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN NO. BB-A52NCvC-200-11/2022 ANTARA PIAH KIM FOONG [No. K/P: 570327-10-5846] … PLAINTIF DAN TAN SHIEW LAM [No. K/P: 710602-07-5111] …DEFENDAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI - BENTUK IKLAN Kepada :Encik TAN SHIEW LAM No. 15, Jalan SS 26/25 Taman Mayang Jaya 47301 Petaling Jaya Selangor Darul Ehsan AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Sesyen di Petaling Jaya Guaman BB-A52NCvC-200-11/2022 oleh Piah Kim Foong beralamat di No. 53, Jalan 21/35, Seapark, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan untuk jumlah RM205,330- 00 dengan faedah pada kadar 1.5% sebulan (bersamaan dengan 18% setahun) ke atas jumlah RM205,330-00 tersebut dari tarikh kelewatan pembayaran sehingga tarikh penyelesaian sepenuhnya dan pemulangan kunci-kunci premis No. 53, Jalan 21/35, Seapark, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan yang masih dipegang oleh Defendan berserta dengan kos tindakan ini. Dan adalah diperintahkan bahawa penyampaian writ dalam tindakan ini kepada kamu kena dilaksanakan melalui iklan ini. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan ini kamu hendaklah dalam tempoh (21) hari dari tarikh pengiklanan notis ini, termasuk hari pengiklanan, memasukkan kehadiran di Pendaftar Mahkamah. Jika kamu ingkar memasukkan kehadiran, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 27 Januari 2023. Tandatangan …...……………… WONG LU PEEN & TUNKU ALINA Peguam cara bagi pihak Plaintif Penyampaian Ganti-Bentuk Iklan ini difailkan oleh WONG LU PEEN & TUNKU ALINA, peguam cara bagi pihak Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas dan mempunyai alamat penyampaiannya di No. 21-6, Block B, The Boulevard, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel No.: (03) 22018378 | [Rujukan Fail: L3 15936] [Emel: [email protected]. my | [email protected] | [email protected]] PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-552-10/2022 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 37774/2008 ( bertarikh 29/09/2008), 0799SC2012033907( bertarikh : 11/09/2012), 0799SC2014034497( bertarikh : 03/09/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah HSD 15727, PT 2625, Mukim 13, Daerah Timor Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) .. PLAINTIF DAN Yeoh Siak Kok (No. Kad Pengenalan : 571105025175) Goh Saw Wah (No. Kad Pengenalan : 580710075992) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 18 November 2021 dan 20 Disember 2022, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Isnin, 13 Februari 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : HSD 15727 No. Lot : PT 2625 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 13 / Timor Laut / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 4098.610000 kaki persegi : 380.770000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Yeoh Siak Kok, Goh Saw Wah Syarat Nyata : Tanah yang diberimilik ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan kediaman sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindah milik, dipajak, digadai atau apa-apa urusan jua tanpa mendapat kebenaran bertulis dari Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “The subject property is a 3-storey twin bungalow house identified as the postal address No. 15, Jalan Bayan Mutiara 3, D’Residence, Bayan Mutiara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang” yang beralamat pos di No. 15, Jalan Bayan Mutiara 3, D’Residence, Bayan Mutiara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 3,150,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: TIGA JUTA SATU RATUS LIMA PULUH RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2020-116B/YSK(RS/j) PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-574-11/2022 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2020031755( bertarikh : 12/11/2020) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah PN 3305/M1/15/246, 774, Mukim Bandar Jelutong, Daerah Timur Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Islamic Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat: 14328-V) ... PLAINTIF DAN Kho Chon Lin (No. Kad Pengenalan : 800126075629) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 10 Januari 2022 dan 20 Disember 2022, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari lsnin, 13 Februari 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : PN 3305/M1/15/246 No. Lot : 774 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar Jelutong / Timur Laut/ Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Pajakan No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : 246 / 15 / M1 Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 775.000000 kaki persegi : 72.000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Kho Chon Lin Syarat Nyata : Petak ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan rumah pangsa sahaja. Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindah milik, dicagar, dipajak, pajakan kecil atau dilupuskan tanpa kebenaran daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : Nombor Pers: 0799B2020004097 Kaveat Persendirian Atas Petak oleh Public Islamic Bank Berhad No Syarikat: 14328-V 1070 & 1071, Jalan Telok Wanjah, 05200 Alor Setar, P.O Box 70, 05700 Alor Setar, Kedah didaftarkan pada 29 Jun 2020 jam 12:48:27 petang suratkuasa Wakil: 0799SW2016000162 LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Hartanah dan hereditamendikenali sebagai Hakmilik Strata No. Hakmilik: Pajakan Negeri 3305/M1/15/246, No. Bangunan M1, Tingkat No. 15, No. Petak: 246, No. Lot 774, Bandar Jelutong, Seksyen 4, Daerah Timur Laut, Pulau Pinang yang beralamat pos di 2A-15-11, Lintang Hajjah Rehmah, 11600 Jelutong, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 243,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: DUA RATUS EMPAT PULUH TIGA RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan.Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PIBB(SP)-HL/2021-151/KCL(RS/j) 322 Notices 2023 Secondary School Scholarship. The Selangor And Kuala Lumpur Teo Chew Association Scholarship Fund Committee. Members of this Association with over a year standing and other Malaysians whose children are at present studying in a secondary school in the state of Selangor or Kuala Lumpur may apply to the committee for scholarship for their children. Scholarship is awarded according rules and regulations set by the scholarship fund committee. This application is opened from 01-02-2023 to 28- 02-2023. Duly completed application forms together with relevant documents must be submitted to the committee on or before 28-02-2023. Any late application will not be entertained. Application forms are obtainable from the Secretariat of The Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Teo Chew Association Scholarship Fund Committee at Level 13A, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur. NOTICE 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT JOHOR BAHRU IN THE STATE OF JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM MALAYSIA COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) NO. JA - 28NCC - 7 - 01/2023 In the Matter of the Companies Act 2016 AND In the Matter of Citypro Educare Management Sdn Bhd (Company No. 199701040361 (455861-U) CHUAN YUAN HOLDINGS SDN BHD (Company No. 199301027786 (282524-D) ... PETITIONER AND CITYPRO EDUCARE MANAGEMENT SDN BHD (Company No. 199701040361 (455861-U) … RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for winding-up of the above-named company by the High Court was, on the 9th day of January, 2023, presented by M/s CHUAN YUAN HOLDINGS SDN BHD (Company No. 199301027786 (282524- D)) and that the said petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at Johor Bahru at nine o’clock in the forenoon, on the 6th day of March, 2023, and any creditor or contributory of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is No. 3, Jalan Wisata, 80200 Johor Bahru, Johor. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is MESSRS CM YEO & ASSOCIATES of Upper Level, No. 134, Jalan Dato Sulaiman, Century Garden, 80250 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Takzim. Tel No.: 07-334 8867, 07-335 8867. Fax No.: 07-335 3867. Signed by CM YEO & ASSOCIATES Solicitors for the Petitioner Note :- Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Solicitors, notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above-named not later than twelve o’clock noon of the day of 5th day of March, 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the petition). (Ref No.: JY/L-9027/0721) PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-586-11/2022 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2009045408( bertarikh : 20/11/2009) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 99337, 3003, Mukim 12, Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat: 6463-H) ... PLAINTIF DAN Ow Soon Leong (No. Pasport : E0113566H) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 27 Februari 2019 dan 21 Disember 2022, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Selasa, 14 Februari 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 99337 No. Lot : 3003 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : 12 / Seberang Perai Tengah/ Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 3003.000000 kaki persegi : 279.000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Ow Soon Leong Syarat Nyata : (FIRST GRADE) The Land comprised in this title: (a)shall not be affected by any provision of the National Land Code limiting the compensation payable on the exercise by the State Authority of a right of access or use conferred by Chapter 3 of Part Three of the Code or on the creation of a Land Administrator’s right of way; and Sekatan Kepentingan : - Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Double-storey semi-detached House yang beralamat pos di No. 41, Jalan Seri Cendana 4, Taman Seri Cendana, 14100 Simpang Ampat, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 585,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: LIMA RATUS LAPAN PULUH LIMA RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan.Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2018-569/OSL(RS/j) 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR IN THE FEDERAL TERRITORY OF KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) NO.: WA-28NCC-17-01/2023 In the matter of the Companies Act 2016 And In the matter of section 465(1)(e) of the Companies Act 2016 And In the matter of section 466(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016 And In the matter of Masterskill Designs Sdn. Bhd. (Company No. 200601010801 (730551-V)) BETWEEN MERCEDES-BENZ SERVICES MALAYSIA SDN. BHD. (COMPANY NO.: 201201027083 (1011573-P) …PETITIONER AND MASTERSKILL DESIGNS SDN. BHD. (COMPANY NO.: 200601010801 (730551-V) …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION Notice is hereby given that a Petitioner for the winding-up of MASTERSKILL DESIGNS SDN. BHD. (Company No.: 200601010801 (730551-V)) by the High Court was, on the 6th day of January 2023, presented by the Petitioner, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Company No.: 201201027083 (1011573-P)). And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at the High Court of Malaya at Kuala Lumpur at 9.00 o’clock in the morning, on the 22nd day of August 2023; and any creditor or contributory of MASTERSKILL DESIGNS SDN. BHD. desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of MASTERSKILL DESIGNS SDN. BHD. requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is MercedesBenz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Wisma Mercedes-Benz, Level 3 Jalan BK 1/13 Taman Perindustrian Bandar Kinrara, 47180 Puchong, Selangor. The Petitioner’s solicitor is Messrs. Chooi & Company + Cheang & Ariff of Level 5, Menara BRDB, 285 Jalan Maarof, Bukit Bandaraya, 59000 Kuala Lumpur [Tel No.: 03-2055 3888; Fax No.: 03-2055 3880]. [Ref: B20200137 CPY] Sgd. ........................... Messrs Chooi & Company + Cheang & Ariff Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE :- Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed solicitors, Messrs. Chooi & Company + Cheang & Ariff, notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed solicitors not later than 12.00 o’clock noon of 21st day of August 2023. 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PELANTAR PIRAMID (M) SDN. BHD. [199301000688 (255425-M)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding UP) At a General Meeting of Members of the Company duly convened and held at E10-25, Menara Melawangi, Pusat Perdagangan Amcorp, No. 18, Jalan Persiaran Barat, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on the 27th day of January, 2023 at 11.00a.m. the following Special Resolution was duly passed: “MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP OF THE COMPANY That, the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Tang Yin Kham (NRIC No. 510610- 07-5414) be appointed as Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up.” LIM CHIN KEONG Director Dated this 2nd day of February, 2023 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of the Company which is being voluntarily wound up, are required on or before 4th day of March, 2023 to send their names and addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the Company, and, if so required in writing from the Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at the Liquidator’s office of 184A, Jalan Raja Uda, 12300 Butterworth, Penang, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. TANG YIN KHAM Liquidator Dated this 2nd day of February, 2023 CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAH PERAK | PERLIS PAHANG | KELANTAN TERENGGANU MS. Shoba TEL: 03-7784 8888 FAX: 03-7784 4424 MALACCA MR. Rajah TEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051 JOHOR BAHRU MS. Anne Lim TEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549

theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 21 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF METAMAHIR SDN BHD (199401004489 (290168-D)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of METAMAHIR SDN. BHD. (199401004489 (290168-D)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF METAMAHIR SDN BHD (199401004489 (290168-D)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator METAMAHIR SDN BHD (199401004489 (290168-D)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IMPIAN MULIA SDN BHD (199701020147 (435644-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of IMPIAN MULIA SDN. BHD. (199701020147 (435644-V)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF IMPIAN MULIA SDN BHD (199701020147 (435644-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator IMPIAN MULIA SDN BHD (199701020147 (435644-V)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BH PLANTATIONS SDN BHD (198401004499 (117018-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of BH PLANTATIONS SDN. BHD. (198401004499 (117018-K)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Azman Hanafi Bin Abdullah Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BH PLANTATIONS SDN BHD (198401004499 (117018-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator BH PLANTATIONS SDN BHD (198401004499 (117018-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF GIIG MANAGEMENT SERVICES SDN BHD (200201008538 (576201-D)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of GIIG MANAGEMENT SERVICES SDN. BHD. (200201008538 (576201-D)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF GIIG MANAGEMENT SERVICES SDN BHD (200201008538 (576201-D)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator GIIG MANAGEMENT SERVICES SDN BHD (200201008538 (576201-D)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF RESTU BUDI SDN BHD (199101009565 (219877-P)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of RESTU BUDI SDN. BHD. (199101009565 (219877-P)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Arsad Bin Mat Jali Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF RESTU BUDI SDN BHD (199101009565 (219877-P)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator RESTU BUDI SDN BHD (199101009565 (219877-P)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TUAH MENTARI SDN BHD (199401004400 (290079-X)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of TUAH MENTARI SDN. BHD. (199401004400 (290079-X)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Mohd Fauzi Bin Talib Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TUAH MENTARI SDN BHD (199401004400 (290079-X)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator TUAH MENTARI SDN BHD (199401004400 (290079-X)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TUGU KRISTAL SDN BHD (199601039568 (411921-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of TUGU KRISTAL SDN. BHD. (199601039568 (411921-T)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TUGU KRISTAL SDN BHD (199601039568 (411921-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator TUGU KRISTAL SDN BHD (199601039568 (411921-T)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MAGISTRATES COURT OF JOHOR BAHRU (CIVIL DIVISION) EXECUTION NO. JA-76J-347-08/2022 In the matter of KEIKO KAWASAKI (Passport No.: TK5427577) And In the matter of Order 62 Rule 5 of the Rules of Court 2012 BETWEEN TOSHIBA ELEVATOR (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD (PREVIOUSLY KNOWN AS MS ELEVATORS ENGINEERING SDN BHD) (COMPANY NO.: 84871-M) …JUDGMENT CREDITOR AND KEIKO KAWASAKI (PASSPORT NO.: TK5427577) (AS THE DIRECTOR OF GREAT VIP SDN BHD) ...JUDGMENT DEBTOR ADVERTISEMENT OF SUMMON NOTICE is hereby given that a Judgment Debtor Summons for the above named Judgment Debtor, Keiko Kawasaki (Passport No.: TK5427577) by the Magistrates Court on the 9th day of January 2023 by Toshiba Elevator (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., the abovenamed Judgment Creditor and that the said Judgment Debtor Summons is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at the Magistrates Court of Johor Bahru at 9.00 a.m., on the 7th day of February 2023; and any creditor or contributory of the said Judgment Debtor desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Judgment Debtor Summons may appear at the time of Hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the Judgment Debtor Summons will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Judgment Debtor requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Judgment Creditor’s address is Wisma TMEL, No. 15, Jalan 2/116D, Kuchai Entrepreneurs Park, Off Jalan Kuchai Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan. The Judgment Creditor’s solicitors are Messrs Chambers of Firdaus of Unit J-5-1, Tingkat 5, Parklane Commercial Hub, Jalan SS7/26, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dated 25 January 2023 .............................................. Messrs Chambers of Firdaus NOTE:- Any person who intends to appear at the Hearing of the said Judgment Debtor Summons must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Messrs Chambers of Firdaus a notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later than 12.00 p.m. on the 6th day of February 2023. PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-485-09/2022 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2019025139( bertarikh 29/08/2019) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No Hakmilik 14895, Lot 466 Seksyen 13, Mukim Bandar George Town, Daerah Timor Laut, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA OCBC AL AMIN BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 818444-T) ...PLAINTIF DAN RITZ GLOBAL RESOURCES (M) SDN. BHD. (No. Syarikat : 665297-A) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 22 Jun 2022 dan 16 Disember 2022, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e- Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Khamis, 9 Februari 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DAI2UL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Peiabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum iualan lelongan diialankan. Sila layari https://eIelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No Hakmilik 14895 No. Lot : Lot 466 Seksyen 13 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar George Town / Timor Laut / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1461.000000 kaki persegi : 135.730000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : RITZ GLOBAL RESOURCES (M) SDN. BHD. Syarat Nyata : The Land comprised in this title:- (a) shall not be affected by any provision of the NLC limiting the compensation payable etc;(b) subject to the implied condition that land is liable to be reentered if it is abandoned for more than 3 yrs, shall revert to the state only if the proprietor for the time being dies without heirs etc Sekatan Kepentingan : Tiada Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Tiada Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Kedai yang beralamat pos di No. 38, Jalan lrawadi, 10050, Georgetown, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 1,400,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: SATU JUTA EMPAT RATUS RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama OCBC AL AMIN BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada OCBC AL AMIN BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : GHAZI & LIM Alamat : 19TH FLOOR, PLAZA MWE NO 8, LEBUH FARQUHAR, 10200, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-2633688 No. Fax : 04-2633188/2627433 No. Rujukan : O70/21/JB/LJL/reen IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ASAS TERUS SDN BHD (199301018989 (273727-A)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of ASAS TERUS SDN. BHD. (199301018989 (273727-A)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ASAS TERUS SDN BHD (199301018989 (273727-A)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator ASAS TERUS SDN BHD (199301018989 (273727-A)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PERSISTENCE GROWTH SDN BHD (199501018440 (347643-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of PERSISTENCE GROWTH SDN. BHD. (199501018440 (347643-K)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PERSISTENCE GRWOTH SDN BHD (199501018440 (347643-K)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator PERSISTENCE GROWTH SDN BHD (199501018440 (347643-K)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MOTIVASI ASIA SDN BHD (199701019526 (435023-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of MOTIVASI ASIA SDN. BHD. (199701019526 (435023-T)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MOTIVASI ASIA SDN BHD (199701019526 (435023-T)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator MOTIVASI ASIA SDN BHD (199701019526 (435023-T)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SBD EQUITY SDN BHD (199201009542 (241045-W)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of SBD EQUITY SDN. BHD. (199201009542 (241045-W)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Zabidin Bin Abu Samah Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SBD EQUITY SDN BHD (199201009542 (241045-W)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator SBD EQUITY SDN BHD (199201009542 (241045-W)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PUNCAK IKHLAS SDN BHD (199301011435 (266172-W) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of PUNCAK IKHLAS SDN. BHD. (199301011435 (266172-W)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PUNCAK IKHLAS SDN BHD (199301011435 (266172-W)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator PUNCAK IKHLAS SDN BHD (199301011435 (266172-W)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF REKA ADIL SDN BHD (199301028970 (283709-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the Special Resolutions as set out below were duly passed by the members of REKA ADIL SDN. BHD. (199301028970 (283709-M)) on 26 January 2023:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Ms. Chong Ai Ling of SOHO Suites @ KLCC, Block A2, Level 32-3A, No. 20, Jalan Perak, 50450 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up. 2. THAT Ms. Chong Ai Ling, the Company’s Liquidator, be and is hereby authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she shall think fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. Muhammad Nor Bin Saliman Director Dated this 2 February 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF REKA ADIL SDN BHD (199301028970 (283709-M)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 3 March 2023, with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator REKA ADIL SDN BHD (199301028970 (283709-M)) SOHO Suites @ KLCC Block A2, Level 32-3A No. 20, Jalan Perak 50450 Kuala Lumpur and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chong Ai Ling Liquidator Dated this 2 February 2023 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices

22 theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SPORTS I have won.” Zverev, who reached the second round of the recent Australian Open, has slipped to 14th in the world rankings after his injury problems. “I am grateful that this is finally resolved and my priority now is recovering from injury and concentrating on what I love most in this world – tennis.” The ATP said yesterday that the i nv e s t i g a t i o n had been completed. “A major independent investigation into Alexander Zverev has found insufficient evidence to substantiate published allegations of abuse,” it said. The ATP said while the primary focus of the probe related to alleged abuses at the ATP Masters 1000 event in Shanghai in 2019, its scope also included possible misconduct in other locations, including Monaco, New York and Geneva, as referenced in public reporting. An inquiry led by the Lake Forest Group (LFG), a third-party investigator, conducted “extensive interviews” with @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME 525 385 +ROOSTER 433 889 + RABBIT 929 284 + TIGER Draw Date: 01/02/23 (Wed) Draw No: 5538/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 5385 3889 9284 0042 + 0218 9654 + 0583 7950 + 2495 3952 + 3022 9088 + 6146 4309 + 4022 0496 + 9734 0240 + 8456 5501 + 8360 7367 + 6255 RM16,454,214.20 5385 + 3889 3889 + 5385 5385 + 9284 9284 + 5385 3889 + 9284 9284 + 3889 RM194,652.00 RM2,116,002.90 RM991,666.60 RM2,175,972.10 520 042 000 218 969 654 160 583 877 950 762 495 123 952 433 022 489 088 236 146 784 309 434 022 300 496 269 734 300 240 998 456 285 501 388 360 217 367 586 255 385 889 284 RM846,237.20 385 + 889 + 284 889 + 284 + 385 385 + 284 + 889 284 + 385 + 889 889 + 385 + 284 284 + 889 + 385 HSSB 1+3DJ 1 RM113,115 & 1+3DJ 2 RM176,873 won on 31/1/23! A Zverev hails ‘justice’ LEXANDER ZVEREV said “justice has prevailed” after tennis chiefs announced yesterday there was “insufficient evidence” to substantiate allegations of domestic abuse against the German former world No. 2. The 25-year-old became the subject of an ATPcommissioned probe in October 2021 following allegations made by his former girlfriend, Olya Sharypova. But the ATP, which runs the men’s tour, said the results of the investigation meant it would not be taking disciplinary action. Zverev, whose 2022 season ended when he tore ankle ligaments at the French Open, said he had denied the “baseless allegations” from the start and would now focus on his career. “This decision marks a third, neutral, third-party arbiter who has reviewed all relevant information and made a clear and informed decision on this matter in my favour,“ he said in a statement. “In addition to the ATP’s independent investigation, I have also initiated court proceedings in Germany and Russia, both of which Sharypova, Zverev and 24 others. It also reviewed submissions by both Sharypova and Zverev, including text messages, audio files and photos. Following a 15-month process, LFG submitted its full report to the ATP, which said that “based on a lack of reliable evidence and eyewitness reports, in addition to conflicting statements by Sharypova, Zverev and other interviewees, the investigation was unable to substantiate the allegations of abuse” or determine that violations of the ATP’s rules had taken place. The statement added the findings “may however be re-evaluated should new evidence come to light, or should any legal proceedings reveal violations of ATP rules”. ATP chief executive Massimo Calvelli said: “We ultimately believe the exhaustive process was necessary to reach an informed judgement. “It has also shown the need for us to be more responsive on safeguarding matters. It is the reason we’ve taken steps in that direction, with a lot of important work still ahead.” – AFP Union through to German Cup quarters A LATE strike from forward Kevin Behrens sent Union Berlin through to the quarterfinals of the German Cup, with a 2- 1 win at home over Wolfsburg yesterday. “It is a deserved victory,” Behrens told German TV. “We have a great bunch. We’re having fun.” In lashing rain and hail, Wolfsburg forward Luca Waldschmidt, who sneaked in behind Union’s defense line to tap the ball in and put the 2015 Cup winners in front. Union responded, scoring just seven minutes later through defender Robin Knoche. Union continued to press after halftime. With ten minutes remaining, Dutch striker Sheraldo Becker headed a low cross from Rani Khedira goalwards, finding Behrens, who whacked the ball into the net from two metres. Goalscorer Behrens, who now has two goals in three games, said coming off the bench to score in front of Union’s home fans was “an outstanding feeling - it’s just like how you’d imagine it”. Union manager Urs Fischer said he was “incredibly proud of the squad” for the comeback victory. “It was enormously important that we scored the equaliser. We played a great second half and stayed calm, then we hit (them with) a lucky punch.” Wolfsburg’s manager credited his side’s effort in the “intense game”, but lamented losing focus in key moments. “We didn’t pay proper attention on two occasions, which led to our defeat.” Inter reach Italian Cup semis INTER MILAN set up a potential Italian Cup semifinal clash with arch rivals Juventus after the holders saw off Atalanta 1-0 yesterday. Matteo Darmian struck the only goal 11 minutes after halftime, his low strike across Juan Musso enough to put a tight quarterfinal at the San Siro in Inter’s favour. Simone Inzaghi’s side will take on either troubled Juve or Lazio in April’s two-legged semis. Inter came through a tough test with Atalanta who are a direct rival for a place in next season’s Champions League. Milan Skriniar was dropped for the match, which was played just after the closure of the winter transfer window in Italy which left him at Inter until the summer. Inter’s attentions now turn to Monday’s Serie A derby with AC Milan, whose league title defence has crumbled after a series of bad results culminating with last weekend’s 5-2 home hammering at the hands of Sassuolo. Failed Isco transfer ‘not optimal’: Fischer UNION BERLIN manager admitted the failed last-minute signing of Spain midfielder Isco was “not optimal”, after their German Cup win over Wolfsburg yesterday. The former Real Madrid midfielder arrived in the German capital to seal a deal with the Bundesliga club ahead of yesterday’s transfer deadline, but the transfer fell through at the last minute for reasons as yet unclear. “What should I say, it was not optimal,” Fischer said. “(But) we tried to focus on our task, we prepared for the game which (we knew) would be a fight, and we did it well. This Isco transfer, the way and fashion in which we responded (shows that) the preparation for such a game was not impacted.” Isco, won the 2012 European Golden Boy award and has scored 12 goals in 38 appearances for Spain. He remains a free agent after leaving Sevilla in December. Hazard joins PSV on loan BELGIUM international Thorgan Hazard has signed with Dutch club PSV Eindhoven on loan from Borussia Dortmund, the German club announced yesterday. German media reported that Eindhoven will cover the cost of Hazard’s wages for the remainder of the season. Hazard joined Dortmund from Borussia Monchengladbach for a fee of €25.5m (RM4.6m) in the summer of 2019. The Dutch club were looking for replacements after Cody Gakpo (Liverpool) and Noni Madueke (Chelsea) left for the Premier League this winter. In a prepared statement, Hazard said the loan deal was “the best solution for everyone at the moment”, saying he was looking forward to “gaining match practice at a club that is very ambitious”. “Thorgan Hazard has approached us with a desire to go on loan to a club where he plays regularly,” said Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl in a prepared statement. Bayern sign Cancelo on loan BAYERN MUNICH have signed Portugal wingback Joao Cancelo on loan until the end of the season from Manchester City, the German club confirmed yesterday. Bayern have an option to buy the Portuguese defender for a reported €70m (RM325m) at the end of the season. Cancelo’s move could spell the end of France international Benjamin Pavard’s time at Bayern. “FC Bayern is a great club, one of the best in the world, and it’s enormous motivation for me to now play alongside these extraordinary players in a team,” Cancelo said in a statement released by the club yesterday. “I know that this club, this team lives for titles and wins titles every year. I’m also driven by the hunger for success.” Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic said the club “had been thinking about (Cancelo) for a while” before making its move. “I’m convinced Joao will help us in the coming weeks and months where we want to win titles.” Zverev 5591/2023 01/02/2023 (WED) SIDENETTING 9983 9811 4067 1588 9394 6814 4625 4689 0964 6337 1675 6427 8672 4412 3553 1228 8770 3095 7953 2834 9677 7829 1407 12,767,946.40 9983 9983 9983 4067 4067 9811 4067 4067 9811 9811 9983 9811 358,723.83 9983 9811 4067 MONKEY 25341 19828 9828 828 13283 2 8 7 3 885773 85773 5773 773 88577 8857 885 8 8 3,265,435.89 1,869,833.98 6 19 25 26 28 56 271,476.21 9 20 24 34 45 53 13 14 21 30 34 47 10,564,066.52 25 … as ATP finds 'insufficient evidence' of abuse

23 * SPORTS theSUN ON THURSDAY | FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Ten Hag saves best until last United moved quickly to add Sabitzer after Christian Eriksen was ruled out for three months MANCHESTER UNITED have been one of the busier clubs in the January transfer window with Erik ten Hag moving to bring in three new faces. The Red Devils’ business has been made more impressive by the fact the club have operated under a tight budget with loan deals the best way to make the most of their money. United were able to bring three new faces to Old Trafford and each player fulfilled an obvious need within the squad. Jack Butland was the first to arrive with Ten Hag needing a new back-up goalkeeper after Newcastle recalled Martin Dubravka. It is difficult to look too much into the position of second-choice keeper given they are so rarely called upon but the Englishman is a solid presence and unlikely to let anyone down when he does pick up the gloves. It is from here that United’s business gets m o r e exciting with key players signed to take on important roles over the rest of the season. Wout Weghorst was the second player to arrive as a short-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo. The Dutchman’s arrival initially raised eyebrows given his poor six-month spell at Burnley last season however it is a signing that makes more sense when looked at closer. Weghorst is deceptively good at pressing despite his 6’6ft frame and fits the way Ten Hag would like to play. He is also very low risk given he is not contracted beyond the end of the season when the club can go after a high-profile long-term option. Furthermore, he is likely to spend most of his stint at the club as second choice with Anthony Martial above him in the pecking order when fully fit. United have signed Marcel Sabitzer on loan from Bayern Munich until the end of the season. The Austria international adds to United’s midfield options after Christian Eriksen was ruled out for three months with an ankle injury. United were quick to contact Bayern over a loan move for the versatile 28-year-old, with the German champions open to the deal. There is no option or obligation to buy included in the deal. Sabitzer heard from United earlier yesterday and said he knew the move to Old Trafford “was right”. “Sometimes in life you have to make quick and important decisions,” Sabitzer said. “From the moment I heard about this opportunity I knew it was right for me. I am a competitive player; I want to win and help the club achieve its aims this season. “I feel that I am at my peak as a player, and that I can contribute a lot of experience and energy to the squad. I am excited to start with my new teammates and manager and to show my qualities to Manchester United fans.” United were also interested in a loan move for the Netherlands international Ryan Gravenberch, but Bayern were reluctant to allow the 20-year-old to leave the club. The Independent also reported that United considered loan moves for Leicester’s Youri Tielemans and free agent Isco. However, the short-term deal for Sabitzer suited United, and offers the 28-year-old to get game time he was not receiving under Julian Nagelsmann at Bayern. “Marcel is a player that we have watched for a long time,” said Manchester United’s football director John Murtough. “The opportunity arose quickly, and we knew that he was someone with the ability and character to make an impact. “He adds further quality to our squad and experience to the dressing room, and all of us are pleased to be welcoming him to Manchester United.” – The Independent/ Express Newspapers United manager accuses Carroll of dangerous play ERIK TEN HAG has accused Andy Carroll of making a dangerous challenge that had a high risk of injuring a fellow professional after Christian Eriksen was ruled out for three months because of the Reading striker’s scissor tackle at Old Trafford on Saturday. The Manchester United manager said the former England international made three challenges that did not belong on the pitch after he was sent off in Reading’s 3-1 FA Cup defeat. And Ten Hag said referees have a duty to protect players after Carroll was not even booked for his lunge at Eriksen, before collecting two yellow cards in five minutes for fouls on Tyrell Malacia and Casemiro. “I’m disappointed about that,” he said. “I think football has to set limits, restrictions, that protect the players. “What football wants is the best players to be available on the pitch. That is a tackle - and the two tackles after it – that don’t belong on a pitch, because there is a high risk of injuring your colleague. So it’s worse and I’m left wondering about that.” Ten Hag was asked if he thought Carroll was deliberately trying to hurt Eriksen, who will be out for the majority of the rest of the campaign with an ankle problem, and replied: “I think it was quite clear what my thoughts were.” United are short of midfielders with Donny van de Beek out for the season and Scott McTominay for a week or two with a muscle problem. Ten Hag used defender Lisandro Martinez in midfield at times for Ajax and could get creative again to help compensate for the loss of Eriksen. He added: “He did it before. As a manager, you have to be creative in such situations where in other departments you have players who can be starting 11 players but because I can only play one player in that position, we can move players into different departments.” – The Independent PL clubs spend RM4.28 billion for first time in January window PREMIER LEAGUE football clubs spent a record £815 million (RM4.28 billion) in the January transfer window, an analysis from Deloitte’s Sports Business Group said yesterday. The biggest spenders were Chelsea, responsible for 37% of the total – equivalent to more than the combined spend by all clubs in the Bundesliga, La Liga, Serie A and Ligue 1, it said. The London club, lying 10th in the league, paid a British record £106.8m (RM561m) for Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez from Benfica on yesterday’s transfer deadline day. The top-flight English clubs’ expenditure was almost three times higher than in January 2022. Over the whole of the 2022-23 season they have spent £2.8b (RM14.7b) on player transfers, beating the previous record of £1.9b (RM10b) set in 2017-18. Relegation-threatened Bournemouth were the second largest spenders within the Premier League. “Premier League clubs have outspent those within the rest of Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues by almost four to one in this transfer window…,” said Tim Bridge, lead partner in Deloitte’s Sports Business Group. “However, while there is a clear need to invest in squad size and quality to retain a competitive edge, there will always be a fine balance to strike between prioritising success on-pitch and maintaining financial sustainability.” – Reuters █ RICHARD JOLLY CARABAO CUP SEMIFINAL 2ND LEG: Newcastle 2 (Longstaff 5, 21) Southampton 1 (Adams 29) – Newcastle won 3-1 on aggregate. FA CUP 4TH ROUND REPLAY: Birmingham 0 Blackburn 1 (Trusty 100-og) – AET. CHAMPIONSHIP: Luton 1 Cardiff 0. ITALIAN CUP QUARTERFINALS: Inter Milan 1 (Darmian 57) Atalanta 0. GERMAN CUP: Paderborn 1 Stuttgart 2, Union Berlin 2 Wolfsburg 1. SCOTTISH PREMIERSHIP: Ross County 1 Hibernian 1. AFRICAN NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP SEMIFINALS: Algeria 5 Niger 0, Senegal 1 Madagascar 0. MANCHESTER CITY are planning a move for Leicester City’s 26-year-old England midfielder James Maddison in the summer. A LOAN move to Inter Milan was never an option for 29-year-old Manchester United and England defender Harry Maguire, who will stay at Old Trafford until at least the end of the season. CHELSEA asked Inter Milan about selling 25-year-old Italy midfielder Nicolo Barella, but the Serie A club were not prepared to let him leave. PARIS ST-GERMAIN will appeal to the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) after failing to complete a deal for 29-year-old Chelsea and Morocco winger Hakim Ziyech. The clubs signed the contracts but they were not registered in time. INTER MILAN chief executive Giuseppe Marotta says Slovakia defender Milan Skriniar, 27, has made the choice not to sign a new contract and instead leave on a free transfer in the summer. BOURNEMOUTH turned down the chance to sign Roma’s 23-year-old Italy midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo after he had a change of heart about joining. WEST BROM’S loan deal for 19-yearold Chelsea andJamaica winger Omari Hutchinson fell through on deadline day after the Baggies signed English winger Marc Albrighton, 33, on loan from Leicester City. AC MILAN have denied there are tensions in negotiations over a new contract with Portugal forward Rafael Leao, 23, and talks are taking place “in a professional way”. BARCELONA tried to sign Morocco midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, 26, from Fiorentina on loan with an obligation to buy, but the Italian club rejected the offer. BAYERN MUNICH rejected Inter Milan’s advances for France defender Benjamin Pavard, 26, in the final hours of the transfer window. RESULTS TOUCHLINES Sabitzer

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] FC Bayern is a great club, one of the best in the world, and it’s enormous motivation for me to now play alongside these extraordinary players in a team. I know that this club, this team lives for titles and wins titles every year. I’m also driven by the hunger for success.” Joao Cancelo after joining Bayern Munich on loan QUOTE OF THE DAY THURSDAY • FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Frantic deadline day PREMIER LEAGUE leaders Arsenal have signed experienced Italian midfielder Jorginho from London rivals Chelsea on an 18- month contract, the club said yesterday. Financial details of the transfer were not disclosed but British media reported the deal was worth £12 million (RM63m). “Jorginho is a midfield player with intelligence, deep leadership skills and a huge amount of Premier League and international experience,” Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta told the club’s website. “Jorginho has won in his career but he still has the hunger and huge willingness to contribute here. We are so pleased to sign Jorginho and welcome him and his family to the club.” Arsenal, who are five points clear of champions Manchester City in the title race, needed midfield reinforcements especially with Mohamed Elneny ruled out with a knee injury which the club said required surgery that will keep him sidelined for “an extended period of time”. Brazilian-born Jorginho will provide Arsenal with significant experience in their title charge, having won the Champions League with Chelsea and the 2020 European Championship with Italy. The 31-year-old has been a key player for Chelsea this season, featuring 25 times in all competitions. Jorginho also won the Europa League, three FA Cups and two League Cups in more than 200 appearances for Chelsea since joining them in July 2018 from Serie A side Napoli. He spent 4½ years at Napoli and enjoyed a breakthrough 2017- 18 season, where he was integral to their title challenge as they finished second. Arsenal made a late bid for Jorginho after they reportedly had two offers for Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo rejected by Brighton & Hove Albion. At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have completed the signing of Enzo Fernandez for £106 million (RM557m), in what is a British transfer record. The Blues met Benfica’s release clause for the Argentina midfielder shortly before yesterday’s transfer deadline. A statement from the Portuguese side confirmed the deal past midnight, after Chelsea had rushed to complete the transfer. It takes Chelsea’s spending this month to over £300m (RM1.58 billion), while the transfer of Fernandez breaks the previous Premier League record set by Manchester City and their £100m (RM525m) signing of Jack Grealish in August 2021. The 22-year-old Fernandez was named the best young player at the World Cup and starred for Argentina as they lifted the trophy in Qatar. He was signed by Benfica for around €10m (RM46m) last summer and had made just 29 appearances for the club. Fernandez’ passing ability will be a welcome addition to Chelsea after they sold midfield operator Jorginho to Arsenal. Prior to his exit, Fernandez accumulated the joint-second most assists in the Primeira Liga this season – five. His ability to scan the pitch before receiving the ball on the half-turn is no doubt an attractive feature for Chelsea, who were in need of new options in midfield. He often finds himself in pockets of space where he can use his speed to attack when someone has covered him defensively. His confidence is certainly reflected in his willingness to shoot. Fernandez developed a reputation as a goalscoring midfielder in his homeland with River Plate last season and has carried that on with Benfica in the current campaign. He joins the long list of young talent Chelsea’s owners have acquired since last summer’s takeover. – AFP/The Independent NEWCASTLE UNITED booked their place in a first major final in 24 years by overcoming Southampton 2-1 at home yesterday in their Carabao Cup semifinal second leg to seal a 3- 1 victory on aggregate. Newcastle had won the first leg 1-0 away last week, with a late strike from Joelinton, and local man Sean Longstaff got them off to an ideal start in the return by opening the scoring in the fifth minute. It was the midfielder’s first goal at St James’ Park in almost four years and he struck again in the 21st minute, knocking in a cut-back from Miguel Almiron to finish off a flowing team move sparked by a slalom run forward by Joe Willock. Che Adams gave Southampton some hope with a bolt from the blue later in the first half after pouncing on a sloppy backpass by Willock and in the second half fellow striker Adam Armstrong had a glorious chance to level the score on the night but was thwarted by goalkeeper Nick Pope. Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes was shown a straight red card in the 82nd minute after a VAR review for a studs-up tackle on Samuel Edozie but Eddie Howe’s side survived playing the final stretch of the match with 10 men. Under the competition rules, Guimaraes is set to serve a three-match ban in the league for the dismissal but will be free to play again in the cup final on Feb 26. Newcastle will play either Manchester United or Nottingham Forest in the final at Wembley. It will be the Magpies’ first final since they lost 2-0 to United in the FA Cup showpiece in 1999 and their second appearance in the League Cup final, having lost to Manchester City in 1976. They will be bidding to win their first trophy since the 1955 FA Cup. “I’ve never played in an atmosphere like that; we started off really well, scored two good goals, let them back into it a bit but we’re happy to get it over the line,” said defender Dan Burns. “It’s a special night, it’s been a long time since we’ve had a night like this, an unbelievable night.” The win, achieved amid a scorching atmosphere and a sea of black-and white-scarves, was arguably the finest moment since Newcastle were taken over by a consortium backed by Saudi Arabia in October 2021, when the team were in the Premier League relegation zone. They are now third in the standings and pushing for a return to Champions League football. “It’s amazing what can happen in a year, we would have laughed at you if you said this 12 months ago; it’s really special what we’re building at the moment,” said Longstaff. – Reuters Hometown hero sends Newcastle to Wembley Newcastle ’s Sean Longstaff (right) celebrates scoring their second goal against Southampton yesterday. – REUTERSPIX Arsenal sign Jorginho from Chelsea as the Blues complete Fernandez transfer from Benfica Signings since Boehly takeover Marc Cucurella - Brighton, £60m Denis Zakaria - Juventus, loan Raheem Sterling - Man City, £50m Benoit Badiashile - Monaco, £35m Kalidou Koulibaly - Napoli, £33m David Datro Fofana - Molde, £8m Carney Chukwuemeka - Aston Villa, £20m Andrey Santos - Vasco da Gama, £10m Cesare Casadei - Inter Milan, £12m Joao Felix - Atletico Madrid, £9.7m loan fee Wesley Fofana - Leicester, £70m Mykhailo Mudryk - Shakhtar, £89m Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - Barcelona, £10.3m Noni Madueke - PSV Eindhoven, £30.7m Gabriel Slonina - Chicago Fire £8m Malo Gusto - Lyon, £30.7m TOTAL: £476.4m