The Sun Daily-final edition-15_08_2023-complete

TELLING IT AS IT IS ON TUESDAY AUGUST 15, 2023 No. 8330 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Zeti Najib Spirit of unity in National Day theme Najib did not ask about source of RM2.6b in account: Zeti PH-BN passes acid test Performance of alliance in state polls may not have been stellar, but it has stood the test and is still standing tall in Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Penang: Fahmi Fadzil Fahmi Former Bank Negara Malaysia governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz has told the High Court Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak never inquired about the source of the RM2.6 billion in his account The theme for this year’s National Month celebrations – Malaysia Madani: Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope – has a deep meaning to be appreciated by all Malaysians DRIVEN BY PATRIOTISM ... The owner of this car expresses his love for the country by decorating it with the Jalur Gemilang. – BERNAMAPIC Full report on hpage 3 Full report on hpage 2 Full report on hpage 5 Tom and Jerry clash about durian Turn to hpage 16

2 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME National Day theme based on unity and hope oIf races can accommodate one another and live in harmony, multi-racial solidarity will bring many benefits to nation: Analyst KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan Penuhi Harapan (Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope) is not just a random theme chosen for this year’s National Month, but has a deep meaning to be appreciated by all Malaysians who love the country. The theme invites Malaysians to strengthen the spirit of unity in facing various challenges together, including the current global economic uncertainty. Political analyst Mujibu Abd Muis said the theme symbolises how important unity is in driving the country’s economic development and raising the living standards of Malaysians to a higher level. “It is important for countries like multi-ethnic Malaysia to uphold unity because cooperation is the country’s main asset. If the races can accommodate one another and live in harmony, the unification of multi-racial citizens will bring many benefits to the country in the economic and social sectors. “Economic progress can only be achieved if there is stability, and stability can only exist if the people are united and help one another. But if they are divided, the country will become backward and be destroyed.” Mujibu, who is also Universiti Teknologi Mara Institution of Malay Rulers Chair fellow, said the theme reflects the government’s determination to strengthen unity by emphasising mutual understanding and tolerance among races as well as to improve weaknesses that exist in the nation’s communities. He added that in the context of Malaysia’s uniqueness, with its people of various races, religions and cultures, the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara need to be used as guides no matter what the situation so that the country remains peaceful. Mujibu said the government could continue to strengthen unity by diversifying patriotic activities, creating an effective long-term plan to shape the identity of the nation and ensuring that any form of extremism that affects harmony among races and religions does not occur. Akademi Profesor Malaysia Department of Social and Development Sciences Prof of Social Anthropology Dr Sarjit Singh LOVE FOR COUNTRY ... National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek at the launch of the school level ‘Eksplorasi Rukun Negara’ initiative in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Policy upgrade to facilitate Madani initiative KUALA LUMPUR: The existing higher education policy will be enhanced and streamlined to ensure that the Higher Education Ministry plays a critical role to ensure the success of the Madani Economy initiative. Its minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the ministry would ensure that the policy focuses on the issues of talent, research and innovation. He said focus would also be on encouraging the transfer and sharing of knowledge by universities to society, and the internationalisation of the education sector. Mohamed Khaled said regarding creation of talent, it is the responsibility of the ministry to train and produce as many skilled workers as possible for the country. He added that this encompasses proper education or the imparting of special skills to meet the needs of investors and the people who want good jobs and higher wages. “We must also ensure that the economy is based on research that produces knowledge and innovation. This is inevitable in our efforts to position Malaysia in the regional and world economy. “Additionally, the transfer and sharing of knowledge by universities to communities is also important as we find a lot of knowledge can be explored to empower people to overcome the issue of poverty and so on.” Mohamed Khaled was speaking as a guest on the Naratif Khas Ekonomi Madani Pendidikan Tinggi programme, which was broadcast live on TV1 on Sunday night. The former Johor menteri besar said the relationship of universities with communities could no longer be limited to mere engagement, but they should create continuous guidance programmes to improve the economic and social status of the people. He said emphasis should be given to internationalisation because the ministry wants Malaysia to be elevated as a hub of globalclass talent and skills. “Now, we have 20 public universities and 403 private higher education institutions, and all of them offer a variety of programmes to overseas students.” – Bernama Tour to monitor condition of expressway KUCHING: The FTRoadpedia Tour by the Works Ministry and the Sarawak Infrastructure and Port Development Ministry from here to Miri will serve to monitor the progress of the Pan Borneo Expressway project, that has reached 97% completion. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the tour would ensure that the highway is safe and comfortable for users when it is fully opened next year. “It is part of efforts and preparations to ensure that the expressway is in the best condition,” he said after flagging off the tour yesterday. He said the FTRoadpedia Tour would have stops at several locations up until Sibu, and then continue to Miri. Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, who is also Sarawak Port Infrastructure and Development minister, said through the tour, the ministry would update the public on the project’s latest status. “The Pan Borneo Expressway is a very big project. It is a game-changer for Sarawakians. For example, you can reach Betong within three hours. We need to update the people on the project.” The two-day tour will cover a distance of 816km. – Bernama Strive for varsity status: Perlis Regent KANGAR: The management and employees of Kolej Universiti Islam Perlis must strive to find short and long-term solutions to achieve full university status, said the Regent of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail. Tuanku Syed Faizuddin, who is also the institution’s chancellor, said one of the requirements is to have an enrolment of 2,000 students. “Kolej Universiti Islam Perlis should aim for a level-five rating under the Malaysian higher education institutions for academic, research, publication and governance,” he said at its 10th-anniversary celebration yesterday. Also present were Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli, Perlis Mufti Datuk Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin, the institution’s rector Assoc Prof Dr Muhamad Rozaimi Ramle and Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council chief executive officer Mohd Nazim Mohd Noor. Tuanku Syed Faizuddin said the university college should provide more competitive study programmes at the graduate and postgraduate levels. He urged its management to strengthen existing policies, particularly in the academic and administrative areas, including staff welfare. – Bernama Gill said unity is important in making Malaysia a developed country that is respected globally and attracts foreign investment, Bernama reported. “They (investors) are looking at political aspects, especially stability and governance. I believe Malaysian society is becoming more rational and committed to sowing the seeds of positive unity not only in family institutions but also in religious, educational and political institutions.” Sarjit said the idealism brought through this year’s National Day theme is important to build the country’s identity as desired since independence. “The national unity agenda is still being pursued persistently by the government since independence in 1957 and the formation of Malaysia in 1963. “This effort is challenged by the dynamic political and social landscape, especially in managing ethnic diversity in Malaysia.” Be lifelong learners, grads told IPOH: Fresh diploma and degree holders need to be lifelong learners and adapt to developments in their respective fields, Higher Education secretary-general Datuk Seri Abdul Razak Jaafar said yesterday at Politeknik Ungku Omar’s 51st convocation. He said they need to commit to being lifelong learners by reading books, attending seminars and participating in courses related to the latest developments in their fields of study. “Don’t be afraid to look for new opportunities to expand your experience and knowledge. If there is an opportunity to participate in interesting projects, work abroad or study at a leading institution, accept the opportunity with open arms.” A total of 2,062 graduates will receive their scrolls during the five-day convocation. – Bernama Six State Elections - Percentage of Seats Won 98% 83% 49% 44% 26% 18% 3% 0% Contested - 46 seats Won - 47 seats Contested - 127 seats Won - 105 seats Contested - 81 seats Won - 40 seats Contested - 59 seats Won - 26 seats Contested - 31 seats Won - 8 seats Contested - 108 seats Won - 19 seats Contested - 37 seats Won - 1 seats Contested - 19 seats Won - 0 seats GRAPH1 / GRAPHLOGOS / PRN2023 - Six State Elections

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 PUTRAJAYA: The performance of the Pakatan Harapan-Barisan Nasional (PH-BN) alliance in the six state elections may not have been stellar, but it has withstood the test and is still standing strong. Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, who is also PH communications director, was commenting on the three states the alliance won, where it managed to push back Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) challenge and retain Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Penang. “Apart from winning the popular vote, none of our candidates lost their deposits, compared with PN, which failed to get the one-eighth required number of votes in 18 seats,” he said, referring to the 10 seats in Penang, six in Selangor and two in Negeri Sembilan where PN candidates lost their deposits. He added that while PH-BN had almost 50% of the total votes, it only gained 40% of the 245 seats due to malapportionment in the state seats. In the elections, PH-BN garnered 3,399,472 votes, which was 49.58% of the popular vote compared with PN, which received 17,000 fewer votes for a total of 3,382,455 (49.33%) of votes cast for the party. Fahmi said Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Penang proved that the unity approach can work and the people are keen for this form of administration to continue. The federal government coalition, including Gabungan Parti Sarawak and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah, currently controls nine state administrations and almost twothirds of all state assembly seats in the country. He said the unity government will conduct an in-depth study of the results of the six state elections to determine what should be improved. “We will conduct an in-depth post-mortem on the state elections. Our study will encompass our selection of candidates, machinery, manifesto, policies and campaigning methods to determine what improvements need to be made for a better showing in the 16th general election. “In the coming weeks, we will also be studying the data in a granular fashion to try and understand all these factors.” He said the unity government respected the people’s decisions in the state elections and would study every aspect that needed to be improved, including forecast results by research firms. Many studies reported forecast results and had additional data. “So we will take all this data and study it, including the percentage of voter turnout,” he said. Commenting on the matter of (low voter turnout) that affected the PH-BN coalition he said, “one of the factors that contributed to this could be voter fatigue due to GE15 having been held less than a year ago”. “We will also look at the federal government’s efforts in attending to and resolving public issues as this is critical to retaining public confidence.” On the participation of the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance (Muda) which allegedly split support for the unity government, Fahmi reiterated that he was saddened by it. “I am saddened that this split allowed PN to win the Sungai Kandis seat.” Fahmi also said he observed that voters were less interested in turning up at ceramah during the first half of the campaign period, but attendance improved as the polls drew closer. Rukun Negara Club to go national ‘PH-BN still standing strong’ oDespite setbacks in state polls, alliance candidates did not lose deposits while retaining three states: Fahmi Aminuddin takes office for second term KUALA PILAH: Negeri Sembilan Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun was sworn in as menteri besar for a second term yesterday. Aminuddin, 56, took the oath of office, loyalty and secrecy before the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Ibni Almarhum Tuanku Munawir at Istana Besar Seri Menanti at 4.15pm. Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud and Tunku Besar Seri Menanti Tunku Ali Redhauddin Tuanku Muhriz were also present. Also in attendance were Undang Luak Sungai Ujong Datuk Klana Petra Datuk Mubarak Dohak, Undang Luak Jelebu Datuk Mendika Menteri Akhirulzaman Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad, Undang Luak Johol Datuk Johan Pahlawan Lela Perkasa Setiawan Datuk Muhammed Abdullah, Undang Luak Rembau Datuk Lela Maharaja Datuk Muhamad Sharip Othman and Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus AlQadri. On Saturday, the PH and Barisan Nasional (BN) alliance succeeded in forming the state government after winning 31 seats, namely 17 seats for PH and 14 seats for BN, while Perikatan Nasional (PN) secured five seats. Yesterday’s ceremony was also attended by state Umno liaison committee chairman Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias and the state leadership from BN and PH. Born on Jan 2, 1967, in Kampung Pachitan, Port Dickson, Aminuddin and his wife Datin Seri Wan Hasni Wan Yusof, 53, have five children –three boys and two girls. Aminuddin went to Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tanah Merah in Port Dickson before furthering his studies at the diploma level at Mara Institute of Technology (now UiTM) in business. In the state polls, Aminuddin retained the Sikamat state seat when he defeated PN candidate Ahmad Raihan Muhamad Hilal and two Independent candidates, Bujang Abu and Mohammed Hafiz Baharudin, with a majority of 2,662 votes. The Port Dickson MP, who has held the Sikamat state seat for four terms since 2008, is also active in non-governmental organisations such as the Persatuan Wadah Pencerdasan Umat and Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement. – Bernama Sanusi continues role as Kedah MB ALOR SETAR: Jeneri assemblyman Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor was sworn in as Kedah menteri besar yesterday. Muhammad Sanusi, 49, who is Kedah Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman, took the oath of office before the Sultan of Kedah AlAminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah at Istana Anak Bukit at 10.15am. He was reappointed as the menteri besar following PN’s big win in the state election on Saturday. It won 33 out of the 36 seats in the state legislative assembly. In the state election, Muhammad Sanusi, who is also PAS Kedah deputy commissioner, retained the Jeneri seat after defeating Barisan Nasional (BN) candidate Datuk Muhamad Khizri Abu Kassim with a majority of 16,050 votes. Muhammad Sanusi, who is also PAS election director, was the political secretary to former Kedah menteri besar Tan Sri Azizan Abdul Razak between 2008 and 2013. He first contested to be an elected representative in the 12th general election for the Belantek state seat but lost to BN candidate Datuk Mohd Tajudin Abdullah by 252 votes. In the 14th general election, he contested in Jeneri and won the state seat after defeating Mahadzir Abdul Hamid of BN and Parti Keadilan Rakyat’s Mohd Nazri Abu Hassan, with a majority of 2,455 votes. Muhammad Sanusi, a graduate of Universiti Sains Malaysia, is married to Tok Puan Seri Jusmalailani Jusoh and the couple have five children. Meanwhile, he said the appointment of the Kedah state executive council line-up would be settled this week. The names of the candidates will be decided by leaders of the component parties in PN, who will meet soon to discuss the matter. – Bernama █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] KUALA LUMPUR: The Rukun Negara Club initiative will be expanded to schools across the country, including private ones, to strengthen efforts to inculcate a spirit of unity among the younger generation. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the Rukun Negara Club plays an important role in introducing and applying the philosophy of the five principles contained in the Rukun Negara. She said it was important that the club, which currently has been set up in 6,000 schools nationwide, be expanded so that the ideology and principles of the Rukun Negara philosophy can be understood and appreciated by students. “The strength of this country is not only seen from the physical aspect, but the resilience of the soul and spirit of its people should also be taken into account. This inner self should be nurtured through unity and the Rukun Negara should be a national ideology which lifts the essential being of our children. “The Rukun Negara Club will be the leader of unity in schools. We will expand it. Information will be provided from time to time. It aims to ensure that the unity programme runs in line with the wishes of the Education Ministry and the National Unity Ministry,” she said. – Bernama FRIENDS FOR LIFE ... Reptile enthusiast Mohd Redzuan Abdullah Zawawi exercising his 10 African spurred tortoises in his yard at Kampung Titi Teras in Balik Pulau, Penang. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

4 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME Get a jump start today on creating a successful tomorrow! For the best in local and international higher education institutions, catch theSun's fortnightly Education Focus. FOCUS 2023 EDUCATION Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Unity ingredient in mee kolok KUCHING: At least three times a week, factory worker Julia Unsing would make her way to her favourite eatery Sainah Cafe in Stutong as soon as her shift ends at 8am. She would order Sarawak’s signature breakfast dish – mee kolok. This has been the 36-year-old Iban woman’s routine since she started working in 2018. Julia, a Christian, is usually accompanied by her colleagues from other religious and ethnic backgrounds who also relish the mee kolok. She said during peak hours when the restaurant was packed with customers, she and her friends would share a table with others regardless of their race or faith. Julia has been visiting the cafe since its owners, who were running their food business from a stall at the Stutong Community Market, opened the restaurant in 2021. Owned by Sainah Mahdi, 41, and her husband Mohammad Ariffin Liew Abdullah, 47, the cafe specialises in mee kolok, which is a dry noodle dish. Most restaurants in Sarawak serve only the non-halal version, but the couple has tweaked the recipe and ingredients to make it a halal dish that could be enjoyed by all communities, Bernama reported. Sainah said when she and her Chinese husband were courting in 2006, he told her that mee kolok was his favourite food but he could not eat it in front of her as it was non-halal. oEatery serving Sarawak signature breakfast dish a favourite with communities from different backgrounds Cruising in patriotic style KUANTAN: A contractor has said he does not mind spending RM5,000 to adorn his high-powered motorcycle with Jalur Gemilang-themed decor while journeying across the country to celebrate National Month. Mohd Hafiz M. Razak, 41, said it was his way of showing patriotism as National Day is only celebrated once a year. For this year’s celebration, he decided to wrap his BMW K 1600 Grand America with the Jalur Gemilang and it would remain wrapped throughout the National Month. He said it took him a week to complete the wrapping process because it required careful and neat techniques to properly display the national flag. “This is my way of expressing national pride, and I am proud to do it in conjunction with the National Month,” he said. Apart from transforming his motorcycle, Mohd Hafiz, from Jengka 14 in Maran, said he also decorated his car with the national flag. The area around his house is also adorned with flags. His effort to decorate his house had earned him the “Rumah Keceriaan Merdeka Award” a few years ago. Mohd Hafiz also participated in the “2023 Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang” convoy, which started in Ipoh on July 16. Being a high-powered motorcycle enthusiast for the past five years, Mohd Hafiz said his participation in the BMW K 1600 Riders Malaysia group convoy boosted his spirit of independence. He added that the independence spirit among the young generation seems to be lacking. Describing his convoy experience, the father of three said the fatigue he felt disappeared after receiving a warm response from the public throughout the journey. “The response we received when the convoy, carrying the Jalur Gemilang, arrived at the checkpoint in each state was just amazing,” he said. – Bernama “That was when I got the idea of creating a halal version of the dish so that we could enjoy it together,” said Mohammad Ariffin. “Other restaurants here do not prepare halal mee kolok the way we do. We also sprinkle chopped mushroom on top of the dish, which other eateries that serve halal mee kolok don’t do,” he said. Sainah Cafe’s mee kolok is priced at RM7 a bowl while a bigger bowl with wantan costs RM9. They also have diversified their menu by adding other dishes such as mee kampua, seafood fried rice, chicken fried rice and kway teow that are prepared by Mohammad Ariffin. College student Mathius Hanson, 20, from Serian said he and his college friends would visit the restaurant three or four times a week as the food is good and reasonably priced. “I also like the restaurant’s environment,” said Hanson, whose favourite dish is mee kampua added with sweet sauce. Malaysians are known to love their food, which is a key unifying factor. To recall an interesting quote by Sarawak’s fifth chief minister, the late Tan Sri Adenan Satem, the people of Sarawak “whether they are Malay, Chinese, Dayak or Bidayuh, they can sit together, drink together, eat together”. These words reflect the close ties among the various ethnic groups in Sarawak and their diversity is, in fact, a source of inspiration to the other states. TVET boon for Orang Asli KUALA LUMPUR: The Orang Asli community is looking forward to the establishment of dedicated Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, as they deem education to be the way to a better future for their children. Single mother Melati Yukin, 56, of the Jakun community in Kahang, Johor, said she welcomes any advancement in skills and science and technology that could help the rural-based community escape poverty. Johor Orang Asli Development Department director Faisal Long said such institutions would provide opportunities for the community to compete in the job market, as very few teenagers are involved in technical fields. – Bernama

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 Medical treatment for abused boy before rehoming JOHOR BAHRU: A seven-year-old abuse victim will receive medical treatment before he is entrusted to next of kin in Kedah or other qualified caregivers for temporary or permanent protection, said Johor Women, Family and Community Development Committee chairman Khairin-Nisa Ismail @ Md On. She added that the boy had been cheerful as he was accompanied by his father, uncle and grandfather during her visit to the Sultan Ismail Hospital yesterday. “I presented some contribution to him to raise his spirits and we all celebrated his birthday together. “The boy was full of smiles and I hope he will grow up resilient and strong,” Khairin-Nisa said in a Facebook post on Sunday, expressing thanks to the Johor Social Welfare Department, Child Welfare Services and the hospital paediatric specialists for providing care and safeguarding the child’s rights. “I am also grateful to Mukim Plentong village chief Tok Mohd Nurul Faiz Aman, along with the Bandar Layangkasa PR1MA community and village chiefs, who were aware of the victim’s situation and took immediate action. “Child abuse cases can be investigated under Section 31(1) (a) of the Child Act 2001, which provides imprisonment of not more than 20 years, a fine not exceeding RM50,000, or both.” Johor police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said the child’s relative, 27, and her foreign friend, 30, were arrested on Friday on suspicion of abusing him in Pasir Gudang. – Bernama ‘Najib never asked about source of RM2.6 billion’ KUALA LUMPUR: Former Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) governor Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz yesterday told the High Court that former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak never made any inquiry about the source of the RM2.6 billion in his account at AmIslamic Bank Berhad. She was replying during examination-in-chief by DPP Kamal Bahrin Omar at Najib’s trial involving the misappropriation of RM2.3 billion of 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) funds, Bernama reported. Kamal Bahrin: Did Najib at any time inquire about the source of the transaction involving his four accounts? Zeti: He did not. Kamal Bahrin: There was RM2.6 billion in Najib’s account before the 13th general election. Did BNM or you know (about) the sum (RM2.6 oCentral bank required to notify law agencies on irregular or suspicious transactions, says former BNM governor Luxury condo units used to store drugs KUALA LUMPUR: Police arrested a man in Cheras last Thursday, subsequently uncovering a syndicate that uses luxury condominium units as drug storage and distribution facilities. City police chief Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said in a statement the 26-year-old man, who worked as a storekeeper and transporter, was detained during a 1pm operation. He added that a team raided two luxury condominiums in Cheras and Semenyih in Kajang, seizing RM10,200 in cash, 10 blocks of heroin base weighing 3.8kg and 10 blocks of syabu weighing 10kg valued at RM655,000. Mohd Shuhaily also said the syndicate had been active in the Klang Valley for the past two months. “Investigations revealed that the suspect’s main income was from drug trafficking as he has no permanent job. We are searching for a local man who was providing instructions to him. “The suspect has two records related to crime and drugs, but his urine test came back negative.” Mohd Shuhaily said the man has been remanded for seven days until Thursday for further investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. – Bernama Rowdy passenger forces Malaysia Airlines flight to turn around KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Flight MH122, departing from the Sydney International Airport to Kuala Lumpur, had to turn back midway due to a disruptive passenger on board. “In the interest of safety, the commander of the flight decided to return to Sydney. The flight carrying 194 passengers and five crew landed safely. “The safety and comfort of our crew and passengers are of utmost importance to Malaysia Airlines,” said the firm in a statement yesterday. It was reported earlier that the aircraft had been turned around due to a mid-air “emergency incident”. MH122 left the Sydney International Airport at 1.40pm and landed on the runway at 3.47pm. Videos posted on X (formerly Twitter) by passengers purportedly showed crew members trying to calm a man after he began shouting at fellow travellers. The Australian Federal Police said it responded to an emergency incident at the Sydney International Airport, adding that an update would be provided at an appropriate time. – Bernama billion) in his account? Zeti: The central bank and I, at that material time, did not know (about) the large funds in his account. The 46th prosecution witness said as per the law, once BNM comes into information for irregular or suspicious transactions, it is required to notify law agencies such as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and police. “BNM is not permitted to inform anyone else, including the account holder.” When questioned by Najib’s lead counsel Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah on money that was deposited into her husband Datuk Dr Tawfiq Ayman’s company account, Zeti said he alerted Singapore authorities about the dubious funds transferred into the account of Cutting Edge Industries Ltd. Zeti, 76, said her husband was the one who wrote the letter, so the funds ought to be returned to investors and it came back to Malaysia as a result of his instructions. Muhammad Shafee then asked if Zeti could produce the letter that she claimed to have sighted, but Zeti said she is not at liberty to share the letter as the matter was under investigation by police. Muhammad Shafee: So, you were only told about the letter by your husband? Zeti: Yes. Muhammad Shafee then contended that it was hearsay evidence. After a heated exchange between the two, Zeti reiterated that at no time was any action ever taken against any of her family members for any wrongdoing in Singapore jurisdiction. Najib, 70, is facing four charges of using his position to obtain bribes totalling RM2.3 billion belonging to 1MDB and 21 charges of money laundering involving the same amount. The trial before Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah continues. Alert on misuse of SC name, logo KUALA LUMPUR: The Securities Commission (SC) has cautioned the public, especially investors, against certain companies using its name and logo without authorisation to promote their investment products. “We do not endorse or approve any cash trust investment products in the market. As such, any use of our name and logo in cash trust investment promotional materials is prohibited,” the commission said in a statement yesterday, adding that it views the matter seriously. “Two companies have recently been identified using our name and logo in their promotional materials for cash trust investment products without permission. They have since been directed to remove all references to the SC in all related promotional materials, including videos.” It reminded trust companies that videos on cash trusts produced by the SC were solely for educational purposes and not intended to be reproduced on any medium by such firms. The commission also urged the public to report any suspicious activities or misleading investment information to its Consumer and Investor Office at 03-6204 8999 or [email protected]. “This will help protect other investors from potential risks and assist them in making informed investment decisions,” it added. MOUNTED CRIME BUSTERS ... Policemen on horses and on foot demonstrating their skills during a drill at the Federal Reserve Team Base in Cheras yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

6 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Jakarta to start random emission tests JAKARTA: Indonesia’s capital will force drivers to undergo emission tests and consider ordering half of its civil servants to work from home, officials said yesterday, amid deteriorating air quality that has made Jakarta one of the world’s most polluted cities. Jakarta has been consistently ranked among the 10 most polluted cities globally since May and last week topped global rankings compiled by Swiss air quality technology company IQAir. Jakarta ranked second yesterday. The government has blamed the problem largely on industry and excessive road traffic but environmental groups point to a coal-fired power plants as the cause, which authorities reject. The government announced yesterday it would carry out random checks on vehicles and force drivers to undergo emission tests. It will consider fines for those who fail and licence revocation for repeat offenders. It will also require emission tests to be part of the process of obtaining a vehicle registration licence. It did not say when the measures would be introduced or how they would be enforced. “We will start in Jakarta and when it gets better, we will expand it to greater Jakarta,” Environment Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar said. Other measures under consideration include requiring cars with 2,400cc engine capacity and above to use 98-octane fuel, and requiring each vehicle to be carrying four people. Jakarta residents, which number well over 10 million, have long complained of poor air. A group of residents won a landmark civil case against the government in 2021, with President Joko Widodo ordered to establish national air quality standards to protect human health, and the health minister and Jakarta governor told to devise strategies to control air pollution. – Reuters B R I E F SANWAAR SWORN IN AS PAKISTAN PM ISLAMABAD: Little-known senator Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar was sworn in yesterday as Pakistan’s caretaker prime minister to see the country through to an election due in months. “I will strive to preserve the Islamic ideology, which is the basis for the creation of Pakistan. I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions,” the 52-year-old said in a ceremony broadcast live on TV. Parliament was dissolved last week, with elections due within 90 days according to the constitution. But data from the latest census was finally published earlier this month, and the outgoing government said the election commission needed time to redraw constituency boundaries. – AFP NORTH KOREA’S KIM BERATES OFFICIALS PYONGYANG: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un berated “irresponsible” officials for failing to prevent damage from Tropical Storm Khanun that swept through the Korean peninsula last week, state media said yesterday. Visiting flooded farmlands in Anbyon County in the east of the country, Kim said the region suffered more damage than other areas “entirely due to extremely chronic and irresponsible work attitude” of local officials, the Korean Central News Agency reported. “The officials of the region were insensitive to the state measures and took no measure and, as a result, the region suffered much damage than other regions,” the report cited Kim as saying. – AFP Taiwan VP vows to ‘resist annexation’ WASHINGTON: Taiwanese Vice-President William Lai vowed on Sunday “to resist annexation” in a speech given during a weekend trip to the United States that China has opposed. Lai is the frontrunner in Taiwan’s presidential elections next year, and is making transit stops in the US en route to and from Paraguay, where he will attend the inauguration of President-elect Santiago Pena. His trip has already roused anger from Beijing, which claims democratic Taiwan as part of China, and which particularly dislikes Lai, accusing him of espousing separatist views. At a New York luncheon on Sunday, Lai reiterated he would continue to uphold the core tenets oChina says it is closely monitoring presidential hopeful Lai’s US visit of the administration of President Tsai Ing-wen – also hated by Beijing for refusing to accept that Taiwan is a part of China. “I will continue our commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty,” he said in a speech carried by Taiwanese channel TTV News. China had said earlier on Sunday that it was closely monitoring “troublemaker” Lai’s visits, and vowed to take “resolute and forceful measures to safeguard national sovereignty”. In a video released by Taiwan’s presidential office, Lai also reiterated 24 killed after heavy rains lash India NEW DELHI: At least 24 people have been killed, nine of them in a temple collapse, and dozens more are feared missing after intense rains caused floods and landslides in India, officials said yesterday. Days of torrential downpours have washed away vehicles, demolished buildings and destroyed bridges in the northern states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. Flooding and landslides are common and cause widespread devastation during India’s treacherous monsoon season, but experts said climate change is increasing their frequency and severity. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, chief minister of the worst-affected state Himachal Pradesh, said at least 16 people had lost their lives in the past 24 hours, including nine in a Hindu temple collapse in state capital Shimla. “The local administration is diligently working to clear the debris in order to rescue individuals who may still be trapped.” He appealed to residents to stay indoors and avoid going near rivers. Schools in the state had been shut, he added. In neighbouring Uttarakhand, rescue teams raced to remove debris after people were feared buried when heavy rainfall triggered landslides. At least eight people have been killed since Friday in the state. The monsoon brings South Asia around 80% of its annual rainfall and is vital both for agriculture and the livelihoods of millions. But it also brings destruction every year in the form of landslides and floods. – AFP that they “must uphold the value of democracy and freedom”. “At this critical moment, we promise again here and now that no matter how great the threat of authoritarianism is to Taiwan, we will never be afraid or back down,” Lai told an audience that included representatives of the American Institute in Taiwan – the de facto US embassy for the island. Taiwan had sought to downplay Lai’s American trip as routine – he is expected to continue on to Paraguay, then stop in San Francisco on his way back to Taiwan. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office on Sunday accused him of “going to the US to betray Taiwan for his own selfish personal gain”. “William Lai continues to stubbornly defend the idea of Taiwanese independence ... in an attempt to wrangle votes,” said spokesman Zhu Fenglian. “‘Taiwan independence’ is incompatible with peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.” – AFP Lion shot dead after escaping from South Korean farm SEOUL: A lion was shot dead in South Korea yesterday after escaping from a privately owned farm and triggering a search by more than 100 police officers and the evacuation of dozens of campers from a nearby camping area. The lioness, named Sasoonee, was reported to be on the loose at around 7.30am (6.30am in Malaysia) in the southeastern county of Goryeong. It was believed to have escaped through a back door of the farm that was left open, the Yonhap news agency said, citing the farm owner. The animal was shot dead after being discovered by authorities in bushes near the farm about an hour later, a fire official told Reuters. The official said she had no information on whether the lioness posed a threat, or whether authorities had tried to use a tranquilliser dart to catch it alive. Yonhap reported that the farm offered tours to the public to see its animals. Photographs released by fire authorities showed the lioness hiding in bushes and its body after it was shot. Authorities issued a safety alert, advising the public to call an emergency hotline if they spotted the lion, and dozens of campers on a nearby mountain briefly took refuge in a town as police searched, Yonhap reported. – Reuters A rescuer carrying the belongings of a villager from the site of a landslide at Jadon village in Himachal Pradesh yesterday. – AFPPIC

7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 Hawaii wildfire death toll nears 100 WASHINGTON: The death toll in Hawaii from the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century ticked towards 100 on Sunday, fuelling criticism that government inaction contributed to the heavy loss of life. At least 96 people were confirmed to have died as of Sunday night, but officials warned the figure was likely oPolice ask those with missing relatives to give DNA samples to rise as recovery crews with cadaver dogs work their way through hundreds of homes and burned-out vehicles in Lahaina. The historic coastal town on the island of Maui was almost destroyed by the fast-moving inferno on Wednesday morning, with survivors saying there had been no warnings. When asked on Sunday why none of the island’s sirens had been activated, Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono said she would wait for the results of an investigation announced by the state’s attorney-general. “I’m not going to make any excuses for this tragedy,” Hirono, a Democrat, told CNN’s State of the Union. “We are really focused, as far as I’m concerned, on the need for rescue, and, sadly, the location of more bodies.” More than 2,200 buildings were damaged or destroyed as the fire tore through Lahaina, according to official estimates, wreaking US$5.5 billion in damage and leaving thousands homeless. “The remains we’re finding are from a fire that melted metal,” said Maui police chief John Pelletier. “When we pick up the remains ... they fall apart.” That was making identification difficult, he added, appealing for those with missing relatives to give DNA samples that might speed up the process. Pelletier said cadaver dogs still had a vast area to search in the hunt for what could still be hundreds of people who are unaccounted for. “We’re going as fast as we can. But just so you know, 3% ... that’s what’s been searched with the dogs.” The wildfire is the deadliest in the US since 1918, when 453 people died in Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to the National Fire Protection Association. The death toll surpassed 2018’s Camp Fire in California, which virtually wiped the small town of Paradise off the map and killed 86 people. Questions are being asked about how prepared authorities were for the Hawaii catastrophe, despite the islands’ exposure to natural hazards such as tsunamis, earthquakes and violent storms. The New York Times reported on Sunday that firefighters sent to tackle the flames found some hydrants had run dry. “There was just no water in the hydrants,” the newspaper quoted firefighter Keahi Ho as saying. – AFP Zuckerberg, Musk throw verbal jabs over proposed cage match WASHINGTON: Billionaires and social media business rivals Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk threw new online jabs at each other on Sunday, with the Meta founder declaring the owner of X – formerly known as Twitter – was not treating a proposed charity cage match seriously. “I think we can all agree Elon isn’t serious and it’s time to move on,” Zuckerberg wrote on his Threads social platform. “I offered a real date ... Elon won’t confirm a date, then says he needs surgery, and now asks to do a practice round in my backyard instead.” Musk quickly responded on X. “Zuck is a chicken,” Musk posted. The Tesla boss said he would head to Silicon Valley today: “Can’t wait to bang on his door.” When an X user suggested Zuckerberg was getting cold feet about the match, Musk referred to a popular US fast food chain known for its chicken offerings. “He can’t eat at Chick-fil-A because that would be cannibalism,” Musk posted. The two tech titans have gone back and forth on social media about fighting each other in a much-hyped charity match. Musk said on Friday the fight would take place in Italy, as authorities there confirmed talks about hosting a “great charity event”. “I spoke to the PM of Italy and Minister of Culture,” Musk wrote, referring to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “They have agreed on an epic location.” In response, Zuckerberg posted a photo of himself shirtless and pinning down an opponent in his “backyard octagon”. A martial arts enthusiast who has taken part in jiujitsu competitions, Zuckerberg said, “I love this sport and I’ve been ready to fight since the day Elon challenged me.” “If he ever agrees on an actual date, you’ll hear it from me.” Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano confirmed speaking to Musk about “how to organise a great charity event”. Sangiuliano said any event with Musk would raise “a huge sum, many millions of euros, (that) will be donated to two important Italian paediatric hospitals”. – AFP Hefty compensation for kin of blaze victims MEXICO CITY: The families of 40 people who died in a fire at a detention centre for undocumented migrants in a Mexican border town in March will receive140 million pesos (RM38 million) each, the government said on Sunday. According to Mexican authorities, the fire in Ciudad Juarez, on the border with the US city of El Paso, started when a migrant set fire to the mattress in his cell, where he was being held with 67 other men, to protest his possible deportation. Security camera footage showed that neither immigration officials nor security personnel attempted to evacuate the migrants once the fire broke out. The National Institute of Migration (INM) said on Sunday it had requested the Finance Ministry provide a “special budget item for the reparation of the damage”. A total of 39 migrants died at the scene, most of them from asphyxiation, and one more in hospital. In addition, 27 suffered injuries. The dead included 19 Guatemalans, seven Salvadorans, seven Venezuelans, six Hondurans and one Colombian, with the INM saying all of the bodies had now been repatriated. Ciudad Juarez is one of the border towns where numerous migrants seeking to cross into the United States end up stranded. – AFP B R I E F SNIGER REGIME VOWS TO CHARGE OUSTED PRESIDENT NIAMEY: Niger’s military regime vowed on Sunday to prosecute ousted president Mohamed Bazoum for “treason” and slammed West African leaders for imposing sanctions on the country. The Economic Community of West African States imposed sanctions on Niger in response to the coup and has not ruled out using force against the army officers who toppled the democratically elected Mohamed on July 26. Niger’s military leaders said they would prosecute Mohamed “for high treason and undermining the internal and external security of Niger”, according to a statement read out by Col-Maj Amadou Abdramane on national television. – AFP COPS PROBE FALSE BOMB THREATS AT EIFFEL TOWER PARIS: French police have launched an investigation into two bomb scares at the Eiffel Tower this weekend that forced the monument to be evacuated twice in the same day, prosecutors said yesterday. The landmark tower became the target of false bomb threats on two occasions on Saturday and was cleared of visitors each time. Paris detectives are leading the probe into suspected “threats to lives” and “falsely claiming that a dangerous explosive incident has occurred or will occur”, the prosectors’ office said. The charges carry a prison sentence of up to two years for those convicted. The threats were made via posts on a gaming site and on a platform for online contact between citizens and police. – AFP Ukraine condemns Russian actions in Black Sea KYIV: Ukraine yesterday condemned what it called “provocative” Russian actions and called for decisive countermeasures by the international community, a day after Moscow said one of its warships fired warning shots at a cargo vessel in the Black Sea. Moscow said on Sunday that its Vasily Bykov patrol ship fired automatic weapons on the Palau-flagged Sukru Okan after the ship’s captain failed to respond to a request to halt for an inspection. Russia has said it would treat any ships approaching Ukrainian ports as potential military vessels after it left a UN-brokered deal last month that allowed the safe passage through the Black Sea of Ukrainian grain. “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine strongly condemns the provocative actions carried out by the Russian Federation on Aug 13 in the Black Sea in relation to the Turkish dry cargo vessel Sukru Okan, which was en route to the port of Izmail,” the ministry said in a statement. Kyiv said the incident was a gross violation of international law and “exemplified Russia’s deliberate policy of endangering the freedom of navigation and safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea”. “We call on the international community to take decisive action to prevent Russian Federation’s actions that impede the peaceful passage of vessels through the Black Sea,” the ministry said, without specifying what action it had in mind. In a statement on Sunday, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov called on the International Maritime Organisation to “react firmly” to the incident and suggested ships should adjust their course to minimise the risk of Russian interference. “In order to avoid provocations, we recommend that masters of vessels sailing to/from Ukrainian seaports sail as close as possible to the coast of the northwestern part of the Black Sea, through the territorial waters of Turkiye, Romania and Bulgaria,” Kubrakov tweeted. The incident cast a pall over plans for a “humanitarian corridor” in the Black Sea to release cargo ships trapped in Ukraine’s ports since the outbreak of war. Ukraine has started registering ships willing to use the corridor, which it announced earlier this week, a local news agency said on Saturday. Shipping and insurance sources have expressed concerns about safety. – Reuters Firefighters working to put out a blaze at a shopping mall destroyed during a Russian strike on the Ukrainian city of Odesa. – REUTERSPIC

8 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 SPEAK UP Reforms needed for stronger future BASED from the outcomes of the recently concluded state elections and the poor voter turnout in some states, it is evident that voters are apprehensive about their socioeconomic security. To secure more support from the people, the government needs to significantly improve and strengthen the socioeconomic and political milieu. Reforms and adjustments to the system are imperative, with a primary focus on elevating the fundamental requirements and well-being of the lower-income demographic or B40 group. The first step should involve restructuring the economic and taxation framework to generate funds for supporting initiatives aimed at uplifting the population. The tax system, in Malaysia and globally, tends to disproportionately favour the affluent, foreign investors and multinational corporations. The government as well as other Asean nations need to collectively and progressively adopt the following measures in their respective countries. 1. Increase taxes for the T20 segment and high-earning corporations, including adjustments to corporate taxes, income taxes, inheritance taxes, and property taxes. 2. Revise the tax structure for capital gains, covering both realised and unrealised gains, with the introduction of equity-based assessments on assets. 3. Establish a publicly accessible database containing information about beneficial owners of companies and trusts. Additionally, it is imperative for Asean member nations to enact individual legislations that prohibit the existence of anonymous shell companies within their respective jurisdictions. 4. Implement a debt monetisation strategy. The government’s mission to eliminate corruption and curb wastage is commendable. However, urgent attention must also be directed towards addressing the lop-sided economic and taxation system, along with its weaknesses, to rectify prevailing issues. By securing financial resources through the aforementioned steps, the government will be poised to channel and leverage the funds towards enhancing the socioeconomic wellbeing of the low-income demographic. Uplifting programmes include: i) Increase the minimum wage to a level that is appropriate and fair. ii) Establish dedicated trust funds to ensure the delivery of essential necessities and services to the B40 and lower portion of the M40 groups throughout the country. These include areas such as oil, gas, affordable housing, education, healthcare and support for first car purchases. iii) Provide more assistance in terms of financial aid, infrastructure development, skill enhancement programmes and enhanced entry to expansive markets for all micro and small-scale enterprises within the nation. iv) Introduce a monthly RM500 pension scheme for retirees aged 65 and above within the B40 and M40 groups, who are not covered by any other pension scheme. v) Take over the management and maintenance of low-cost flats by local councils nationwide. vi) Provide initiatives aimed at the enhancement, upkeep and advancement of public amenities and housing for individuals residing in rural areas. It is also important for the government’s political party representatives to actively engage with the public and maintain regular interactions. The purpose is to gather feedback and address grievances concerning individuals’ daily challenges, ensuring swift and efficient solutions. This proactive approach will strengthen the bond between the populace and the government, increasing support for the government. In conclusion, it is imperative that all initiatives and resources are channelled with a primary emphasis on the betterment of the lower-income demographic. This is to eradicate any insecurities and create a more thriving and prosperous society. This should remain the central focal point for the government. In addition, the government must uphold a stance of moderation, striking a balance between not being excessively liberal or overly conservative. By implementing these measures, the government will be able to secure sufficient funds to execute programmes, such as the above, to promote the socioeconomic status and overall quality of life for this group. The writer is a PhD Fellow, University of Bucharest. Comments: [email protected] Urgent attention must be directed towards addressing the lop-sided economic and taxation system. – REUTERSPIC Making Madani Economy work THE six state elections ended in a stalemate, with Pakatan Harapan (PH) retaining Penang, Selangor and Negeri Sembilan and Perikatan Nasional keeping Kelantan, Terengganu and Kedah. The moment has come for all public officials to set aside their political differences and move forward as one nation in advancing the Madani Economy framework to improve the people’s well-being through fair policies that foster inclusivity. In an article published recently, it was highlighted that as an emblem of solidarity and shared objectives, the Rukun Negara should be recited by all participants, preceding all government meetings. It is important to consistently reinforce the principles outlined in the Constitution and uphold the benchmarks of effective governance. Public officials must remain in tune with the perspectives of their constituents and the desires of the rakyat. As leader of the coalition unity government, Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed the commitment to prioritise the betterment of all Malaysians’ lives, ensuring their well-being, and laying the foundation for a future marked by growth and stability. The PM is committed to promoting the Madani Economy, having met with many international leaders and successfully securing pledges for investments in Malaysia. Notably, discussions have occurred with figures, such as Elon Musk, which will result in the establishment of the Tesla manufacturing plant within the country. Additionally, his Starlink technology company is set to provide top-tier internet service across all regions of Malaysia through the utilisation of the world’s largest network of earthorbiting satellites. Such advanced technology will benefit corporate, commercial, educational and residential users. In addition, we also see notable developments, such as China’s Geely automobile manufacturer in Tanjong Malim, Perak, the collaborative plans of Saudi’s Aramco-Petronas to establish operations in Pengerang, Johor and Germany’s Infineon investing RM25 billion in the Kulim High Tech Park, Kedah. These efforts are encouraging indications of the ongoing revitalisation of the economy and the potential for generating employment opportunities, especially for the youths. The objective is to disrupt the cycle of generational poverty through strategic economic growth, driven by innovative strategies, such as green technology and renewable energy. These initiatives can elevate the livelihoods and welfare of the people. Additionally, the PM recently unveiled an increase in the subsidy for Padi rice farmers, raising it from RM360 to RM500 per metric ton. This marks the first substantial subsidy increase in several decades. It is also imperative that the government root out graft and corruption. Furthermore, a comprehensive transformation of the education system is essential. The PM has also emphasised Technical and Vocational Education and Training as a pivotal educational focus, aiming to equip the nation with an advanced, well-educated technical workforce. Such technical specialists are crucial for catering to the diverse corporations that Malaysia aims to draw in. Over the years, Malaysia has experienced a significant outflow of students to foreign educational institutions. Many of these graduates subsequently remain abroad, assuming prominent roles as leaders in corporations or government positions. We must halt this departure of invaluable human capital – the prospective leaders of tomorrow. The unified government must provide a stable, thriving economy to meet the challenges of the future. We must replace division, extremism, bigotry and racism with fairness, parity, opportunity and inclusiveness. In this democratic setting, we take pride in Malaysia’s identity as a nation meant for every Malaysian, irrespective of their ethnicity, faith, cultural background or economic status. C. Sathasivam Sitheravellu Seremban LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Samara Ashrat

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 Commending Vincent Tan’s philanthropy I AM writing to express my support for the recent letter by R. Rama Chandran published in theSun, praising the remarkable contributions of Tan Sri Vincent Tan who donates his time, money, experience and skills to create a better world. It is truly heartwarming to witness the effects of his generosity. I have known Tan Sri since my earlier years as a Member of Parliament in the mid-1970s, and have closely followed his incredible journey. I know of his many philanthropic deeds. Several non-governmental organisations and poor people have gone to see him to seek help and he has never let them down. In 2011, he was featured in Forbes Asia’s list of Heroes of Philanthropy due to his pledge to donate half of his fortune to social causes. In a world often filled with challenges and uncertainties, these philanthropic efforts serve as beacons of hope, reminding us of the power of compassion and generosity. It is important that we recognise and celebrate such individuals, not only to acknowledge their incredible work but also to inspire others to follow in their footsteps to inspire and create opportunities for others. Let us use this as an opportunity to come together, with a special call to our corporate leaders, to amplify the positive impact of such actions and to spread the message that each of us, in our own way, has the power to make a difference. Let us continue to champion humanitarian and worthwhile causes and strive to cultivate a culture of giving, empathy and kindness. I wish Tan Sri many more years of fruitful life. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Kuala Lumpur LETTERS [email protected] Safeguarding endangered pride LIONS have fascinated humans for centuries with their social structure and impressive manes. In a land where legends roam, where the circle of life is incomplete without them and their roar echoes through time, there is a tale of struggle and survival, untold and unseen. These magnificent big cats face challenges that threaten their existence. Unravelling epic saga Lions once roamed Africa, Asia and Europe but now they are only found in isolated regions of sub-Saharan Africa, with a subpopulation residing in West Africa and a small population of Asiatic lions located in India’s Gir National Park. Tanzania is home to three of the five largest lion populations, and the majority of lions are concentrated to the south of the Sahara. Lions are adaptable big cats that can survive in various habitats, including dry forests, thick bushes, floodplains and semi-arid desert areas. However, they prefer open savannas, where it is easier to stalk their prey. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are around 23,000 to 39,000 lions remaining in the wild. Recent data suggests that the number may be closer to 20,000 as three-quarters of their population is declining. While lions are classified as vulnerable, their population is expected to decline even further without adequate conservation efforts. Today, lions are constantly under threat, most of which are brought on by human activity. Ranchers, for instance, often fear that lions will prey on their livestock, which can be a significant financial blow. To prevent this, they may resort to killing the animals in retaliation and as a preventative measure. In some cases, they even use pesticides as poison, and lions’ scavenging behaviour make them vulnerable to such poisoned carcasses. Conversely, poachers target the species for their bones and other body parts, which are highly valued in the illegal wildlife trade. The role that trophy hunting plays in this conflict is highly controversial. While some argue that hunting fees generate money for lion conservation efforts, others point out that mismanaged hunting in the past has caused lions to disappear from certain habitats. The “vacuum effect” created by the targeted killing of adult males further exacerbates the issue. Compounding this is the depletion of prey in their surrounding habitats. African lions rely heavily on large herbivores for sustenance but these populations are being hunted to extinction for the increasingly commercial bushmeat trade. For example, in East Africa, these populations have declined by as much as 52%, while in West Africa, the decline has been more dramatic, at 85%. With fewer food options available in the wild, lions may more likely turn to hunting domesticated animals, such as livestock, further fuelling the conflict between humans and lions. Lions have a relatively slow reproductive rate compared with other species. Lionesses give birth to small litters of cubs, and the survival rate of cubs to adulthood is relatively low. Half of the cubs will not reach the age of one. This slow reproductive rate makes it challenging for lion populations to recover, even with conservation efforts. Asiatic lion The Asiatic lion, which is native to the Gir region of India, is a genetically distinct subspecies different from the lions found in sub-Saharan Africa. The Gir is home to dry deciduous teak forests. Unfortunately, the vast forest that once covered over 2,600km� in the early 1900s has suffered significant depletion and is now less than half the size it once was. The Gujarat State Forest Department’s forestry operations, which allow for the logging of forest trees and the planting of teak in previously cleared areas, have led to the predominance of teak forests. The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary’s protective boundaries currently house the majority of the remaining forest that is being conserved. The Asiatic lion only exists as a single subpopulation, and hence, is susceptible to catastrophic occurrences, such as epidemics or forest fires, which may push them to the verge of extinction. Creating a new home for Asiatic lions in their old territory is crucial to ensure their safety, genetic diversity and ecological balance. Past attempts have faced challenges, as evidenced by the lion population that was introduced to the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh. While their numbers initially grew, the group eventually vanished, resulting in the failure of the project. As part of ongoing conservation efforts, other wildlife sanctuaries are now being considered as potential locations for this crucial mission. Towards conservation journey Conservation efforts for lions involve a grand quest for balance between preserving their natural habitats, minimising human-wildlife conflicts and managing sustainable populations. One successful initiative has been the establishment of protected areas and national parks, which offer safe havens for lions to thrive. Countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa have made strides in creating these protected spaces, allowing lions to maintain stable populations. However, despite these efforts, some challenges persist. One issue is the encroachment of human settlements into lion habitats. As the human population expands, it brings humans and lions into closer proximity, leading to increased conflicts and potential loss of livestock, which can provoke retaliatory killings of lions by the local communities. Resolving this issue requires collaboration between conservation organisations, governments and local communities to develop sustainable practices that benefit the people and wildlife. Understanding population dynamics is also crucial for effective lion conservation. Over the past few decades, lion populations have experienced fluctuations due to various factors. According to a study by the Lion Recovery Fund, there has been a noticeable decline in lion populations in certain regions, such as West Africa, where they are now classified as “critically endangered”. In contrast, populations in Southern Africa have shown more stability and some even experienced modest growth, which can be partially attributed to successful conservation efforts and more suitable habitats for the big cats. This region has seen an increase in wildlife tourism, which generates income for local communities, incentivising them to protect lions and their habitats. To effectively protect lions and ensure their long-term survival, it is crucial to address the threats and implement comprehensive conservation strategies that involve local communities, governments and international organisations. Saving lions is a race against time due to the various threats they face in their shrinking habitats, the combination of various adverse factors that have led to an overall faster rate of loss of lions than the rate of their recovery. Crucial role of research Scientific research plays a pivotal role in understanding lion behaviour, biology and their interactions with the environment. Conservationists and researchers have been employing various methods, including radio telemetry, satellite tracking and genetic analysis, to gather valuable data on lion populations. Recent research has shed light on the genetic diversity of lion populations, which is crucial for their long-term survival. It has been discovered that some populations have become genetically isolated, leading to reduced genetic variation. This poses a risk of inbreeding depression, making these isolated populations more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes. Furthermore, behavioural studies have highlighted the importance of pride dynamics and the roles of different members within a pride. For example, lionesses are the primary hunters, while male lions protect the pride and its territory. Understanding these dynamics helps conservationists implement targeted strategies for protecting different aspects of lion society. Lions are majestic and powerful creatures. Conservationists, such as BioDB, governments, researchers and communities are working together to protect them and their habitat. The fate of lions hangs in the balance and hinges upon humanity’s shoulders. Together, we can make sure that their mighty roar continues to echo across the globe as a symbol of nature’s untamed spirit and enduring majesty. “Lions remind us that we share this planet with other magnificent beings who deserve their rightful place in the circle of life. Conservation is our way of ensuring they continue to roar in the wild.”– Richard Leakey The writer is the Founder and CEO of BioDB.com, a group tasked with collecting conservation data, raising awareness for biodiversity loss and fundraising. Comments: [email protected] COMMENT by Assaf Levy “According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, there are around 23,000 to 39,000 lions remaining in the wild. Recent data suggests that the number may be closer to 20,000 as three-quarters of their population is declining. The fate of lions hangs in the balance and hinges upon humanity’s shoulders. – PIC COURTESY OF PXHERE.COM, USED UNDER CC0 LICENCE.

10 HEALTH & WELLNESS theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 Rise in global temperature cause for concern EVEN a healthy young person will die after enduring six hours of 35°C warmth when coupled with 100% humidity, but new research shows that the threshold could be significantly lower. At this point, sweat, the body’s main tool for bringing down its core temperature, no longer evaporates off the skin, eventually leading to heatstroke, organ failure, and death. This critical limit, which occurs at 35° of what is known as “wet bulb temperature”, has only been breached around a dozen times, mostly in South Asia and the Persian Gulf, Colin Raymond of Nasa’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory told AFP. None of those instances lasted more than two hours, meaning there have never been any “mass mortality events” linked to this limit of human survival, said Raymond, who led a major study on the subject. But extreme heat does not need to be anywhere near that level to kill people, and everyone has a different threshold depending on their age, health, and other social and economic factors, experts say. For example, more than 61,000 people are estimated to have died due to the heat last summer in Europe, where there is rarely enough humidity to create dangerous wet bulb temperatures. But as global temperatures rise— last month was confirmed as the hottest in recorded history— scientists warn that dangerous wet bulb events will also become more common. The frequency of such events has at least doubled over the last 40 years, Raymond said, calling the increase a serious hazard of humancaused climate change. Raymond’s research projected that wet bulb temperatures will “regularly exceed” 35°C at several points around the world in the coming decades if the world warms 2.5°C above preindustrial levels. Really, really dangerous Though now mostly calculated using heat and humidity readings, wet bulb temperature was originally measured by putting a wet cloth over a thermometer and exposing it to the air. This allowed it to measure how quickly the water evaporated off the cloth, representing sweat off of the skin. The theorised human survival limit of 35°C at wet bulb temperature represents 35°C of dry heat as well as 100% humidity, or 46°C at 50% humidity. To test this limit, researchers at Pennsylvania State University in the United States measured the core temperatures of young, healthy Limits on human endurance are wildly different for different people. – PICS BY 123RF people inside a heat chamber. They found that participants reached their “critical environmental limit—when their body could not stop their core temperature from continuing to rise – at 30.6°C wet bulb temperature, well below the previously theorised 35°C. The team estimated that it would take between five and seven hours before such conditions would reach “really, really dangerous core temperatures,“ Daniel Vecellio, who worked on the research, told AFP. The most vulnerable Joy Monteiro, a researcher in India who last month published a study in Nature looking at wet bulb temperatures in South Asia, said that the most deadly heatwaves in the region were well below the 35°C wet bulb threshold. Any such limits on human endurance are “wildly different for different people,” he told AFP. “We don’t live in a vacuum, especially children,” said Ayesha Kadir, a paediatrician in the UK and health advisor at Save the Children. She said small children are less able to regulate their body temperature, putting them at greater risk. Older people, who have fewer sweat glands, are the most vulnerable. Nearly 90% of the heatrelated deaths in Europe last summer were among people over 65. People who have to work outside in soaring temperatures are also more at risk. Whether or not people can occasionally cool their bodies down, for example, in airconditioned spaces, is also a major factor. Monteiro pointed out that people without access to toilets often drink less water, leading to dehydration. “Like a lot of impacts of climate change, it is the people who are least able to insulate themselves from these extremes who will be suffering the most,” Raymond said. His research has shown that El Nino weather phenomena have pushed up wet bulb temperatures in the past. The first El Nino event in four years is expected to peak towards the end of this year. Wet bulb temperatures are also closely linked to ocean surface temperatures, Raymond said. The world’s oceans hit an alltime high temperature last month, beating the previous 2016 record, according to the European Union’s climate observatory. – ETX STUDIO Never dip food in seawater before eating THE trend of dipping various foods like mangoes, watermelons, and burrata into seawater for enhanced flavour has gained traction on platforms like TikTok. However, this viral fad, observed since the summer season began, poses significant health risks. In a TikTok video, a user dips burrata (Italian cow milk cheese) into seawater before indulging, prompting concerns and comments about its unhygienic nature. This trend isn’t isolated, as another video shows a woman on a boat soaking Italian bread and mozzarella in seawater before consumption. While sprinkling certain foods with salt is an Italian tradition, experts vehemently advise against using seawater due to health hazards. The trend gained momentum when singer Rihanna was seen dipping mangoes in seawater, prompting imitations and a trending hashtag on TikTok. Yet cautionary tales emerged, including one fan’s painful experience after emulating Rihanna’s action, leading to hospitalisation and detoxification. Drinking seawater is widely acknowledged as perilous. The National Ocean Service explains that the high salt content exceeds safe human limits and introduces potential health issues, such as bacterial infections like E. coli and microplastic ingestion due to pollution. Despite its popularity, health professionals emphasise the severe risks associated with consuming seawater. Don’t immerse food in seawater before eating it.

KLCI 1,457.00 STI 3,247.70 HANG SENG 18,773.55 SCI 3,178.43 NIKKEI 32,059.91 413.74 TSEC 16,393.66 KOSPI 2,570.87 S&P/ASX200 7,277.00 TUESDAY AUGUST 15, 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] 5 MOST ACTIVES August 14, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) SAPNRG 241,062,000 5.5 -0.5 CLASSITA 210,477,800 8.5 -0.5 UEMS 139,811,200 56.5 +2.0 HSI-CRF 119,943,500 20.5 -4.5 ASB 111,541,800 14.5 -2.5 EXCHANGERATES AUGUST 14, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.6655 4.5315 4.5075 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0450 2.9220 2.9080 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4440 3.3450 3.3350 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4670 3.3740 3.3490 1 EURO 5.1130 4.9480 4.9270 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8010 2.6970 2.6850 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4440 3.3450 3.3350 1 STERLING POUND 5.9280 5.7410 5.7020 1 SWISS FRANC 5.3030 5.1810 5.1560 100 UAE DIRHAM 128.5700 121.9200 121.1800 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.3370 4.0690 3.8510 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 64.5000 62.1000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 60.3400 57.3500 56.8800 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.7300 5.3700 5.1700 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0317 0.0287 0.0237 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.2200 3.1180 3.1080 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 15.7000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE N/A N/A 1.3400 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.3800 7.9000 7.7200 100 QATAR RIYAL 129.4800 122.9200 122.1600 100 SAUDI RIYAL 125.7900 119.4200 118.6700 100 THAI BAHT N/A N/A 11.8500 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY August 14, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,712.40 +17.28 FBMKLCI 1,457.00 -0.16 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 564.05 +1.39 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 167.46 +0.10 CONSTRUCTION 174.82 +3.11 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,306.80 +9.89 ENERGY 834.11 +2.58 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 582.84 +3.04 HEALTH CARE 1,695.30 -1.03 TRANSPORTATION 927.09 +4.51 PROPERTY 793.17 +16.77 PLANTATION 7,074.02 -13.20 FBMSHA 10,936.20 +17.57 FBMACE 5,325.32 -18.80 TECHNOLOGY 64.51 +0.13 TURNOVER VALUE 3.532 BIL RM1.889 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS August 14, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEXTECH 99,200 28.42 +0.54 NESTLE 11,200 132.50 +0.50 UMW 6,898,000 4.53 +0.26 PETDAG 378,500 22.88 +0.24 ALLIANZ 21,600 15.50 +0.20 5 TOP LOSERS August 14, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HLCAP 3,481,800 5.48 -0.36 PPB 433,900 16.20 -0.36 MPI 127,100 27.70 -0.30 HEIM 70,400 25.90 -0.26 HLFG 75,000 18.42 -0.18 Malaysia on track to achieve net zero by 2050 KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is on track to achieve its goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, albeit funding is needed to upgrade the current domestic infrastructure to attract foreign investors, according to Energy Industries Council (EIC) Asia Pacific regional director Azman Nasir. “Malaysia can achieve its net zero carbon emission by 2050, but it depends on what else we are going to do,” he told reporters at the Oil and Gas Asia 2023 (OGA) event yesterday. Touching on energy transition, he noted that Malaysia ranks number one in Southeast Asia in the Energy Transition Index recently by the World Economic Forum. Recently, the government published the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) Part One, to effectively manage energy transition. Azman pointed out that the NETR has “detailed action plans” and █ BY GLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] BFood expands Paris Baguette to Philippines MANILA: Paris Baguette Philippines Inc yesterday announced the signing of the master franchise agreement among Berjaya Food (International) Sdn Bhd (a subsidiary of Berjaya Food Bhd (BFood)) and Middle Trade Inc, and Paris Baguette Singapore to introduce the South Korean café bakery in the local market, with its first store slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2023. Under the deal, Berjaya Food (International) Sdn Bhd and Middle Trade Inc will be the principal operators of the Paris Baguette stores locally under Paris Baguette Philippines Inc. The partnership is targeting to spread the brand’s presence with the establishment of more stores in key cities nationwide. “It gives us so much pride and excitement to be able to announce this partnership between Berjaya Food International and Middle Trade Inc in establishing Paris Baguette Philippines Inc. This development came more than six months after a successful expansion in Malaysia, a feat which we hope will be replicated in the Philippines,” said Berjaya Food Bhd group CEO Datuk Sydney Quays in his speech. Quays added that Berjaya Food International, also the master franchisor of casual dining restaurant Kenny Rogers Roasters, has long seen the robust potential of the Philippine market with its local franchisee Middle Trade Inc. “The entry of Paris Baguette in the Philippines marks a milestone in our From left: Middle Trade Inc president and CEO Frederick Siy, Quays, Lee, Paris Baguette Southeast Asia CEO Hana Lee, and Hur at the signing ceremony. oPartnership with Middle Trade Inc and Paris Baguette Singapore will see launch of first store in Q4 this year From left: Informa Markets Malaysia Sdn Bhd oil and gas project manager Derrick Yeow, co-chairman General Tan Sri Panglima Mohd Azumi Mohamed (rtd) and Azman at the event. – SYAZMANKAMAL/ THESUN 0.16 46.58 301.64 10.82 207.59 20.39 63.10 continuous expansion in the Asean region. We, in Berjaya Food have committed ourselves to delivering world-class food and restaurant concepts to our fellow Asian brothers and sisters. Our aim is to build on our aspiration to be a global, diversified, and holistic food group,” Quays said. The event also welcomed the participation of the Republic of Korea Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Sang-Hwa, and the SPC Group, a leading South Korean food and confectionery conglomerate president and CEO Hur Jin-Soo. In his address, Hur shared how Paris Baguette, a French-inspired bakery founded in South Korea in 1988, gained global popularity. “The brand’s global success is rooted in the spirit of Sangmidang, which is to not leave a single piece of bread unchecked. This practice has put a name on Paris Baguette as a household bakery with about 3,500 stores in South Korea alone, and we are excited for our Filipino patrons to experience this commitment and get their hands on quality bread anytime, anywhere,” he said. Paris Baguette premium bakery brand has been a leader in the Korean bakery industry by introducing and developing European-style bakery culture for the first time in Korea. It is also the No. 1 bakery chain in South Korea with over 3,500 stores, and more than 480 locations across the US, UK, Canada, China, France, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The stores have been a backdrop across various K-dramas and are backed by various Korean celebrities. eagerly awaits the next part of the roadmap. However, he said that Malaysia needs to keep up the momentum and pointed out that funding to upgrade domestic infrastructure is important and needed to attract investors. “We need the external funding, foreign funding to do this. We must make renewable projects or energy transition projects attractive for the actual funds to come in,” he added. He said that investors are concerned in terms of return on their investments, as well as investment risk assessment for renewable and energy transition projects, which he noted is dependent on readily available facilities such as infrastructure, manpower, costs and technology. “If there is no (well-developed) infrastructure, then investors will think twice about whether to come here, since there are many options such as Vietnam or Thailand or elsewhere,” he said. Meanwhile, the OGA and EIC co-located events is expected to generate close to RM200 million in potential negotiated sales with 25,000 attendees from 52 countries and 2,000 exhibitors. Participation 30.0 45.0 25.0 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 547.8 857.2 484.3 1889.3 Sold RM m 585.1 842.0 462.2 1889.3 Net RM m -37.3 15.2 22.1 0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 14/8/2023

12 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 SUNBIZ Sime Darby to acquire Australian firms for RM1.49b KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Bhd’s indirect wholly owned unit Sime Darby Industrial Machinery Australasia Pty Ltd (SDIMA) has signed a share sale agreement (SSA) to acquire the entire share capital of Kuxton Pty Ltd and 98.9% share capital of Kagera Pty Ltd for A$500 million (RM1.49 billion). In a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday, Sime Darby said the proposed acquisition would be on a cash-free and debt-free basis, subject to customary adjustments for working capital, capital expenditure and stocktake. Kagera is the holding company of a group of companies that operate the South Australian Cavpower is a Caterpillar Inc dealership based in South Australia servicing primarily the mining, construction, and energy and transportation industries. – CAVPOWER WEBSITE Caterpillar dealership (Cavpower), several properties and interests in joint ventures. Cavpower is a Caterpillar Inc (CAT) dealership based in South Australia servicing primarily the mining, construction, and energy and transportation industries. Sime Darby said the proposed acquisition is intended to be financed through external borrowings and internal funds. “The acquisition of Cavpower represents an opportunity for geographical expansion of the industrial division to enter the South Australian dealership market through an established, sizeable and reputable provider with an entrenched platform for future growth. “The acquisition complements the industrial division’s existing dealership footprint while diversifying from coal markets through exposure to large deposits of critical materials (copper, lithium and cobalt) in South Australia,” said the company. With newly built state-of-the-art facilities, it said the additional capacity represents a significant opportunity for Sime Darby to utilise within the industrial division business in Australia. Furthermore, the proposed acquisition offers Sime Darby greater profile and scale by acquiring a recognised global leading dealership and strengthens and consolidates Sime Darby’s position in Australia. Cavpower and Sime Darby participate in a number of common joint venture investments which would enable Sime Darby to capitalise on further. Moving forward, Cavpower is expected to continue to grow its earnings driven by commodity tailwind exposure, current mining pipeline, South Australia mining region expectations as a global leader for critical mineral mining and the utilisation of surplus capacity resulting in less capex required in the existing business. It also said the completion of the proposed acquisition is conditional upon the fulfilment of the condition precedents (CP) as well as the performance and compliance with the terms of the SSA. The non-fulfilment of the CPs may result in the termination of the SSA. “The anticipated returns of the proposed acquisition may be lower or take longer than expected to realise,” said the company. – Bernama Malaysia may benefit from changes in Thailand, Singapore visa schemes: Juwai IQI CEO KUALA LUMPUR: The increased difficulty of obtaining popular visas in Thailand and Singapore could benefit Malaysia, according to insights released yesterday by Juwai IQI co-founder and group CEO Kashif Ansari. The changes could drive RM2.7 billion of new spending in Malaysia over the next five years, as well as RM7 billion in new bank deposits and RM35 million in application fees paid to the government. “Malaysia is seeking investment, job creation, supply chain localisation and skilled labour. When other visa programmes turn applicants away, Malaysia may benefit,” said Ansari. “Thailand has indicated it will make major changes to its popular Elite visa programme as of Oct 1, possibly raising fees by as much as 500%. The Elite visa is a residency visa similar to MM2H but with more than 20,000 participants. If Thailand changes its visa as much as expected, the Elite visa could lose market share to Malaysia. We estimate that the changes to the Thai Elite visa could redirect from 5% to 25% of new applicants to Malaysia instead of Thailand. Over five years, that could result in as much as RM7 billion in new deposits in Malaysian banks.” In the same time frame, he said it could also lead to the government earning RM35 million in application fees and visa holders directly spending for personal consumption some RM2.7 billion. Thailand’s Elite Visa programme, he added competes directly with MM2H. Both focus specifically on wealthy foreigners and seek to maximise economic benefits to their country via fees and investment. Ansari said Singapore is also revising one of its visa programmes in ways that could benefit Malaysia. New rules coming into effect on Sept 1 will make it harder for companies to hire foreign employees under the popular Singapore Employment Pass visa. With its changes, Singapore hopes to increase local employment by making it more difficult for companies to hire foreigners. “An average of about 180,000 people hold a Singapore Employment Pass. It’s not clear yet how significant an impact the rule changes will have. If the number of Employment Pass visas drops significantly and companies perceive Malaysia as a friendlier environment, some companies or employees may shift to Malaysia,” he added. B R I E F SBPAM RELEASES UPDATED APP FOR INSTANT ACCESS TO BOND MARKET INFO KUALA LUMPUR: Bond Pricing Agency Malaysia Sdn Bhd (BPAM) has released the latest version of its smartphone application, iBPAM to empower users with immediate access to crucial bond information and real-time market data, all at their fingertips. With a user-friendly interface, the new iBPAM is thoughtfully designed to provide a seamless and intuitive experience for all users, regardless of their technical expertise. “We are committed to empowering our users with the tools they need to optimise their decision-making process. The latest version of iBPAM marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance our services and revolutionise how our clients interact with financial data,“ said BPAM CEO and executive director Meor Amri Meor Ayob. MATRADE: STATE EXPORT DAY TO HELP MSME GAIN INTERNATIONAL EXPOSURE KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will organise the State Export Day 2023 nationwide to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) promote their products and services in the international market. Deputy CEO (exporter development) Abu Bakar Yusof said the programme is a platform for MSMEs and local entrepreneurs to obtain practical information on basic guidelines for exporting and exposure to government assistance and the services of export ecosystem players. “The State Export Day 2023 is one of Matrade’s initiatives to increase MSME and local entrepreneur’s exports in line with our mandate to help them develop products internationally,“ he told Bernama after being a guest on the Bernama Radio programme “Explore the Export Market with Matrade” yesterday. CELCOM-DIGI TO HOST KARNIVAL JOM 5G FROM FRIDAY TO SUNDAY KUALA LUMPUR: CelcomDigi Bhd will host a Karnival Jom 5G from Aug 18 to 20 (Friday to Sunday), offering amazing deals with the widest range of new 5G phones to Malaysians following the recent launch of its Jom 5G Malaysiaku campaign. In a statement, the telecommunication group said the carnival will be loaded with offers and savings to enable improved digital experiences on Malaysia’s widest and fastest network. “Furthermore, with CelcomDigi’s ongoing nationwide network integration and modernisation exercise, Malaysians can look forward to improved connectivity and digital experience on both 4G LTE and 5G networks,“ it said. The Karnival Jom 5G will be held at selected locations across the nation at Celcom bluecube Sunway Pyramid, Subang Jaya; Digi Store Bayan Baru, Penang; Celcom bluecube Taman Molek, Johor Bahru; Celcom bluecube, Kuantan; Digi Store Api-Api, Kota Kinabalu, and Celcom bluecube Tun Jugah, Kuching. – Bernama BFood posts RM271.75m revenue, RM29.04m pre-tax profit for Q4 2023 KUALA LUMPUR: For the fourth quarter ended June 30, 2023 Berjaya Food Bhd (BFood) posted a lower revenue of RM271.75 million as compared to a revenue of RM291.27 million in the previous year’s corresponding quarter. The lower revenue was recorded in the current quarter under review when compared to the exceptional sales performance in the same quarter of the previous year. The group’s pre-tax profit dropped to RM29.04 million from RM63.43 million in the previous year’s corresponding quarter. The decrease in amount was mainly due to the lower sales and margin compression arising from inflationary pressures as well as the unfavourable foreign exchange rate against the US dollar. For the financial year ended June 30, 2023, the group recorded a higher revenue of RM1.12 billion as compared to a revenue of RM997.76 million reported in the previous year’s corresponding period. Meanwhile, the pre-tax profit achieved was lower at RM156.52 million as compared to a pre-tax profit of RM187.99 million in the previous financial year. The higher revenue was mainly due to aggressive marketing campaigns and effective promotion strategies in the current financial year under review, as well as the additional stores operating in Malaysia. As for the lower pre-tax profit, it was mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons. The board has declared a fourth interim dividend of 0.50 sen singletier dividend per share (previous year’s corresponding quarter ended June 30, 2022: fourth interim dividend of 0.40 sen single-tier dividend per share) in respect of the financial year ended June 30, 2023 to be payable on Sept 26, 2023. The entitlement date has been fixed on Sept 12, 2023. The total dividend declared for the financial year ended June 30, 2023 amounted to 3.50 sen singletier dividend per share (previous financial year ended 30 June 2022: 1.10 sen single-tier dividend per share). As for future prospects, the board of directors expects BStarbucks to maintain its revenue growth momentum and anticipates that the operating results of the group will remain satisfactory in the ensuing financial year ending June 30, 2024. oDeal for Cavpower will enable Malaysian conglomerate to expand industrial division into South Australian dealership market

13 SUNBIZ theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 ‘Wider tax base, inclusive economic growth needed to tackle income inequality’ KUALA LUMPUR: Efficient fiscal policies that may include broadening the tax base and enhancing the tax administration while ensuring inclusive economic growth are needed to address the income inequality in Malaysia, said RHB Investment Bank Bhd (RHB IB). In a note, the investment bank said addressing income inequality requires a comprehensive approach which recognises its root cause, and the implementation of policies focusing on progressive taxation, social safety nets, equitable access to education and skill development as well as inclusive economic growth. “The Malaysian government’s tax revenue as a percentage of gross domestic product has declined over the years, thus, a broader tax base revenue is required to improve the tax base,” it said. RHB IB said higher spending on crucial sectors such as education and healthcare, a more targeted approach in the subsidies mechanism as well as targeted assistance programmes are also needed to reduce income inequality. To balance fiscal sustainability and the need for social safety nets for the lower income group, the gradual transformation of blanket subsidies mechanism to targeted transfers is also necessary, it said. It noted that reducing the income gap between regions and states might take longer as it involves the development of infrastructure such as the upgrading of transport and communication networks in remote areas, as well as improvement of human capital development in particular regions. “This is further complicated by the rural-to-urban migration, where youths from rural areas migrate to urban areas in search of better employment opportunities and improved living standards. “This migration can result in a brain drain from rural areas, further exacerbating the urban-rural disparities in human capital and development,” it said. To this end, RHB IB said, labour market policies such as minimum wages, labour law as well as training and skill development play an important role, as these policies can either aggravate or mitigate income inequality, depending on the extent of implementation and enforcement. It is also crucial to ensure expansion and evolution into high value-added sectors via investments in new technology such as automation, as well as in human capital development such as job training and cultivating a highly skilled workforce that commands higher wages, added RHB IB. – Bernama Foreign investors net buyers for fifth straight week KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign investors continued their buying streak on Bursa Malaysia for the fifth consecutive week, snapping up RM465.5 million worth of equities last week, said MIDF Research. In its Fund Flow Report for the week ended Aug 11, it noted that foreign investors were net buying every day, which last happened during the week ended Feb 24, 2023. “They net bought RM800,000 on Monday, RM84.5 million on Tuesday, RM209.7 million on Wednesday, RM66.3 million on Thursday and RM104.2 million on Friday. “The top three sectors that saw net foreign inflows were financial services (RM274.3 million), technology (RM66 million) and plantation (RM65 million),” it said. Meanwhile, sectors which saw net foreign outflows for the week were healthcare (-RM72.2 million), REITs (-RM22.0 million) and energy (- RM700,000). Year-to-date, it noted that foreigners have net sold RM2.46 billion. However, local institutions remained as net sellers of domestic equities for the fifth straight week after net selling RM321.9 million last week. They only net bought RM23 million on Monday, before turning net sellers for the rest of the week. Year-to-date, local institutions have been net buyers at RM2.68 billion. Similarly, local retailers also net sold for the fifth consecutive week at a much higher rate of RM143.7 million compared with RM8.5 million net sold in the previous week. Year-to-date, local retailers have net sold RM220.1 million. In terms of participation, the average daily trading volume among retail investors and institutional investors declined by 2.4% and 5.8%, respectively, while that of foreign investors remained unchanged. – Bernama B R I E F SGFM PROPOSES TO TRANSFER LISTING TO MAIN MARKET PETALING JAYA: Integrated facilities management service provider GFM Services Bhd has proposed to transfer its listing to the Main Market from the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities. Group managing director Ruslan Nordin said a transfer will open up new avenues to boost the group’s visibility and credibility, garnering recognition from potential investors, particularly institutional shareholders. “At the same time, (it) enables us to access the broader capital market to support our expansion plans, and better reflects GFM’s current scale of operations,“ he said in a statement yesterday. OCBC BANK (M) LAUNCHES TRAVEL-THEMED VISA CARD KUALA LUMPUR: OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Bhd has launched the OCBC 90°N Visa Card that rewards travellers. Although travel-themed, the card extends to encompass other popular reward types as well, including points for everyday spending which can be viewed and redeemed as cashback on anything via OCBC Internet Banking or the OCBC Malaysia Mobile Banking. With every ringgit spent using the OCBC 90°N Visa Card, cardmembers earn reward points called Travel$. PETALING JAYA: Meta Bright Group Bhd through its wholly owned subsidiary, FBO Land (Setapak) Sdn Bhd, has entered into a heads of agreement to provide a renewable energy solution to GE Mining Sdn Bhd. The solution to be provided is a gridconnected photovoltaic (GCPV) system of at least 2MW capacity, where FBO Land will have the responsibility of designing, developing, supplying, installing, testing, commissioning, operating and maintaining it. GE Mining will procure all relevant approvals, consents, authorisations or permits to assist FBO Land with the installation of the system at the project site which will be determined by both parties. Meta Bright executive director Derek Phang said the group will focus on growing its sustainable energy solutions business and the collaboration showcases its commitment to explore and capitalise on the potential of renewable energy. The specific terms of the definitive agreement with GE will depend on feasibility studies to determine the final capacity of the GCPV system as well as FBO Land’s scopes. “We will update our order book accordingly upon finalisation of the agreement,” Phang said in a statement yesterday. Meta Bright in heads of agreement to supply RE solution to GE Mining Public Bank, Pro-Net in financing facilities tie-up PETALING JAYA: Public Bank Bhd and Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (Pro-Net) have signed a memorandum of collaboration on provision of financial products and services, and to embark on digitalisation via systems integration with smart Malaysia and its authorised dealers. The collaboration will enable Public Bank to interface and facilitate digitalisation via online submission of hire purchase endfinancing applications and floor stocking facility through smart customer app and their authorised dealers, thus improving market shares in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. Pro-Net is an exclusive authorised importer and distributor for smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand. These strategic appointments are expected to accelerate sales of the company’s all-new innovative EV. Public Bank managing director and CEO Tan Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek said: “Supporting the growth of the New Energy Vehicles (NEV) has always been a key pillar to our climate agenda. The bank had mobilised over RM30 billion in domestic NEV financing by the end of 2022, representing approximately 52% of the bank’s total domestic hire purchase financing portfolio. To signify the bank’s commitment, the NEV lending target has now been increased to RM33 billion by 2025.” He added that there is a compelling opportunity for Public Bank and Pro-Net to foster strong synergies from the onset as not only will this be win-win in advancing their respective business objectives, it also contributes to another win in their common battle against climate change. Pro-Net CEO Zhang Qiang said the advent of NEV signifies a significant departure from traditional products by leveraging EV technology to foster enhanced connectivity and address evolving consumer needs. From left: Public Bank HP operations division general manager Wong Man Hoe, deputy CEO Datuk Chang Kat Kiam, Tay, Roslan, Zhang and Pro-Net board member Wang Huaibing at the signing ceremony. oThe two parties will also embark on digitalisation via systems integration with smart Malaysia At the heart of Pro-Net’s mission, he added, lies a strong commitment to deliver a seamless digital customer journey in collaboration with eco-partners, aiming to achieve a smart EV mobility ecosystem. “Pro-Net is making remarkable progress in developing a smart Malaysia customers’ App, set to offer an exceptional range of ecoservices, including convenient online loan applications and seamless charging information capabilities. Our goal is to ensure transparency on the transaction, enhance efficiency, and speed throughout their journey with the smart brand,” he said. Pro-Net board member Roslan Abdullah said: “By collaborating with Public Bank, our aim is to streamline the purchasing process and provide a hassle-free and reshaping customer digital experience. Innovation and customer-centricity are deeply ingrained in Pro-Net and smart’s DNA, with a commitment to continually offer premium solutions and co-create a better future with their valued customers”. As the first EV brand to collaborate with Public Bank, he added, smart is leading the way in pioneering a transformation of the banking industry’s digital landscape.

14 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 SUNBIZ Australia’s Lendlease pauses A$1.9b San Francisco project SYDNEY: Australian developer Lendlease Group has paused work on an A$1.9 billion (RM5.7 billion) office and apartment complex in San Francisco in the troubled West Coast real estate market, it said yesterday, after reporting a drop in annual core profit. California’s commercial real estate market is one of the hardest hit globally as home working culls demand for office space just as rising rates crunch property values and lift debt servicing costs. Office entry in San Francisco was 58% below the pre-pandemic baseline, the lowest globally, according to a May report by Jones Lang LaSalle. Lendlease paused the 47-storey Hayes Point project in central San Francisco, its largest investment in the Americas, earlier this year, looking to line up tenants or find a co-investor, Global chief executive Tony Lombardo told reporters on a call following full year earnings. “We’ve got A$260 million currently invested in the project. It was a decision over the last couple of months to pause but with really making sure we de-risk it appropriately before we’re prepared to put further capital into that,” he said. Lendlease’s shares fell as much as 5.2% and last traded down 3.9% in a broader market that was down 0.7%. Lendlease owns, invests in or manages real estate globally, including an A$33 billion office portfolio. The developer reported a statutory loss after tax of A$232 million, weighed by a decline in property valuations and a one-off A$295 million provision to fix safety issues in some UK buildings including flammable cladding. Property valuations fell roughly 7%, down A$175 million, across the portfolio, with the office segment down around 9%. Core operating profit after tax, which excludes valuation changes and one-off items, was A$257 million, down 7% year on year. Funds under management grew 9% to A$48.3 billion. – Reuters B R I E F SFOXCONN’S Q2 EARNINGS SLIP BUT TOP FORECAST TAIPEI: Apple Inc supplier Foxconn yesterday reported a 1% drop in second-quarter net profit, as global economic woes hurt demand for smart consumer electronics. The Taiwan company, the world’s largest contract electronics maker, said net profit for the AprilJune quarter slipped to NT$33 billion (RM4.7 billion) from a revised NT$33.29 billion in the same period the previous year. It was better than an average forecast of NT$25.57 billion profit from 13 analysts, according to Refinitiv. – Reuters SPICEJET POSTS HIGHEST QUARTERLY PROFIT IN 4 YEARS BENGALURU: Indian budget carrier SpiceJet yesterday reported its highest quarterly profit in four years, as a sharp drop in expenses due to fewer flights operated more than offset a fall in revenue– sending shares up 6%. The company’s profit for the first quarter ended June 30 came in at 2.05 billion rupees (RM113.9 million), from a loss of 7.89 billion rupees a year ago. The airline also reported a profit of 168.6 million rupees for the quarter ended March 31, compared to a loss of 4.58 billion rupees a year before. – Reuters Country Garden shares plunge, fanning market fears HONG KONG/BEIJING: Country Garden, China's largest private developer, is seeking to delay payment on a private onshore bond for the first time, a source said, after suspending trading in 11 onshore bonds, sending its shares plunging to a record low yesterday. Anxiety spread through markets following the worrying news from Country Garden, putting Beijing under mounting pressure to deliver support for the ailing real estate sector in order to shore up confidence in a stuttering economy. Once considered a more financially sound developer, Country Garden shares dived 18.4% to HK$0.80 (RM0.47) yesterday, dragging down the Hang Seng Mainland Properties oChinese property developer said to be seeking to delay repayment of private onshore bond Index which dropped 3.7%. The stock has lost 50% so far this month. Country Garden’s difficulties could have a chilling effect on homebuyers and financial institutions, with more private property companies close to a tipping point if financial support does not materialise soon. Two Chinese listed companies said over the weekend that they had not received payment on maturing investment products from Zhongrong International Trust Co, adding to the stress in a financial market already roiled by a property sector downturn. A core pillar of China's economy, the real estate sector has suffered tumbling sales, tight liquidity and a Adani Group stocks hit by auditor quitting over Hindenburg report BENGALURU: Shares of Adani Group companies fell between 3% and 6% yesterday after Deloitte resigned as auditor of Adani Ports, the first such move at the Gautam Adani-led conglomerate since US short-seller Hindenburg’s report on the company in January. Deloitte, Adani Ports’ auditor since May 2017, quit amid concerns over certain related party transactions that Hindenburg had raised and which the company did not wish to look into independently, Reuters reported on Friday. Adani Ports said Deloitte, which does not audit any of the other core listed Adani Group companies, had all the necessary information and its reason to quit was “not convincing.” In its report, Hindenburg also alleged the conglomerate of improper use of tax havens and other business dealings. While the group has denied all allegations, the report led to Adani’s listed units losing more than US$100 billion (RM461 billion) in market value and sparked regulatory investigations. Separately, India’s market regulator, which was due to submit a final report on its probe yesterday, said it sought 15 more days to conclude an investigation into the conglomerate’s dealings with some offshore entities. Shares of Adani Ports fell as much as 3.7% yesterday. Flagship Adani Enterprises dropped 5.5%, while Adani Power, Adani Energy Solutions, Adani Wilmar , Adani Green Energy and Adani Total Gas declined between 3% and 5%. “The market would have liked it if the Adani management would have made the (related party) disclosures on their own,” said Avinash Gorakshakar, head of research at Profitmart Securities. “In the near term, the Adani Group stocks will likely remain under pressure and any re-rating will happen gradually when the water settles down.” Adani Ports named MSKA & Associates as its new auditor. – Reuters Kremlin blames loose monetary policy as rouble slides against dollar MOSCOW: President Vladimir Putin’s economic adviser rebuked the central bank yesterday as the rouble slid past 101 per US dollar, blaming its 30% year-to-date slump on loose monetary policy and revealing growing discord among Russia’s monetary authorities. The rouble, which has lost around a quarter of its value against the dollar since Putin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, hit 101.04 per US dollar, its weakest point in almost 17 months. As the rouble tumbled, Putin’s economic adviser Maxim Oreshkin said in an op-ed for the TASS news agency that the Kremlin wanted a strong rouble and expected a normalisation shortly, an intervention that could spur the central bank into action ahead of its next scheduled interest rate decision on Sept 15. “The main source of rouble weakening and accelerating inflation is soft monetary policy,” Oreshkin wrote. “The central bank has all the tools to normalise the situation in the near future and ensure that lending rates are reduced to sustainable levels. “A weak rouble complicates the economy’s structural transformation and negatively affects the population’s real incomes,” he said. “It is in the interests of the Russian economy to have a strong rouble.” The Bank of Russia, which hiked rates by 100 basis points in July to 8.5%, has blamed the rouble’s sharp slide this year on Russia’s shrinking current account surplus – down 85% year-on-year in January-July. Yesterday, the bank said it saw no financial stability risks from the rouble’s weakening and gave another hawkish signal that a rate increase is possible soon. – Reuters series of developer defaults since late 2021, with China Evergrande Group at the centre of the debt crisis. Country Garden’s offshore bonds also eased, with a few trading at the lower end of 6 cents on the dollar earlier. Most have since firmed slightly. The firm proposed to creditors to extend repayment for an onshore private bond due Sept 2, with an outstanding of 3.9 billion yuan (RM2.48 billion), by three years in seven instalments, a source with direct knowledge said yesterday. Country Garden declined to comment. In separate filings during the weekend, the developer said it would suspend trading in 11 of its onshore bonds from yesterday, in a move that traders said usually signals plans to seek repayment extensions. In September alone, Country Garden may need to repay more than 9 billion yuan worth of onshore bonds, according to Reuters calculation. The suspension of its onshore bonds followed a report by Chinese media Yicai on Friday that the company was heading for a debt restructuring, after it missed payments of two dollar bond coupons due on Aug 6 totalling US$22.5 million (RM103.7 million). Shares of its property management unit Country Garden Services fell more than 10%. According to company registry portal Qichacha, a services unit of Country Garden offloaded its 51% stake in a Wuhan-based network technology company, while chief strategic officer of Country Garden Services also resigned from the firm’s chairman. Country Garden Services did not immediately respond to request for comment. Its woes are adding to spillover concerns across a property market already grappling with weak buyer demand. “The problems in the sector have been brewing for a long time, it wiped off the wealth effect among investors and no one wanted to buy property now,” said Dickie Wong, executive director at Kingston Securities. Tthe sector’s impact on the economy has reached a “critical moment” and regulators should implement more policies including cutting interest rates and reserve ratios, he added. – Reuters A logo of Country Garden Holdings is seen at a housing estate in Zhengzhou, in China’s central Henan province. Country Garden’s woes are adding to spillover concerns across a property market already grappling with weak buyer demand. – AFPPIC

1 5 A U G U S T 2 0 2 3 T U E S D A Y Discover the latest exploits of Tom and Jerry, the iconic animated couple. Dive into page 16 to find out more. Cat & mouse around page 18 page 16 page 17 VFX workers up against Marvel Studios Find out who’s the king of Musang King Lean Into It, Mr Big says goodbye

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Tom and Jerry clash over durian HOLD on to your seats, because the ultimate cat and mouse duo, Tom and Jerry, have just premiered their wild and wacky adventure on Cartoon Network (Astro Ch 615). And guess what? This time, they are in Singapore battling it out over the King of Fruits, the infamously smelly durian, right in the heart of Singapore. In this hilarious first episode, titled What’s That Smell? the mischievous cat and clever mouse take their rivalry to the bustling streets of Singapore. But things take a hilarious turn when they stumble upon the polarising durian fruit. For Tom, it’s a delectable delight, but for Jerry, it’s a stinky nightmare. Can these two arch-nemeses ever find common ground over the spiky and pungent durian? You will have to tune in and find out on Cartoon Network Asia’s YouTube channel, where the episode is now available Full Tom and Jerry series is coming soon on Cartoon Network and HBO Go in Asia Pacific. – CARTOON NETWORK █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN for your viewing pleasure. In celebration of International Cat Day on Aug 8, Cartoon Network is going all-out feline-themed and has even transformed into “Cat-Toon Network” for this special occasion. Throughout the month, cat lovers and cartoon enthusiasts can catch their favourite feline friends in action in shows like Looney Tunes Cartoons, The Amazing World of Gumball, Tom and Jerry in New York, Unikitty!, Teen Titans Go! and much more. Prepare for a purrfectly delightful time. But wait, there’s more, the fantastic new Tom and Jerry series is proudly produced in Singapore in collaboration with Warner Bros Animation. Brace yourselves as the iconic foes venture through Singapore’s vibrant neighbourhoods, towering skyscrapers and lush cityin-nature experiences. It’s going to be a rollercoaster ride of laughs and excitement. A Fighting together LMOST as though in solidarity with the ongoing major strikes by both the Writers Guild and Screen Actors Guild against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers, visual effects (VFX) crews at Marvel have finally petitioned to demand union recognition from the studio. This comes after more than a year’s worth of horrible revelations around Marvel Studios’ systematic overworking and underpayment of VFX workers on its blockbuster movies and streaming series. To put things into perspective, Marvel Studios’ output of movies and oMarvel VFX workers to unionise █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR While the premiere has already tickled our funny bones, don’t worry, as there is a lot more fun and chaos to come. Keep an eye out for the announcement of the next six episodes of this thrilling, locally produced series, coming later in the year. So, gather your friends, family and fellow cat enthusiasts and hop on the Cartoon Network express for an unforgettable and fur-tastic experience with Tom and Jerry in the Lion City. It’s time to relish in the laughter and antics of our favourite cat and mouse duo as they embark on their sensational durian adventure. TV series is akin to a burst dam. In 2023 alone, there will be five movies and four shows. Due to this, through disclosures made by VFX circles over the last year, Marvel is regarded as the industry’s biggest “bully.” They are known to flood VFX houses with more work than the latter are equipped to handle or ruin the careers or standings of those that fail to live up to the studio’s demands. The move also comes against a backdrop of increasing critical condemnation and fan displeasure with the quality of computergenerated imagery in Marvel Studios movies and series. On Aug 7, a group of more than 50 on-set employees filed a petition for an election to be represented by the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) with the National Labour Relations Board. The workers are asking for the election to be held as early as Aug 21. This bold, hard-to-argue-against move heralds the first time VFX professionals have banded together to demand the same rights, wage protections and professional watchdog oversight that have been enjoyed by workers in almost every other segment of the entertainment industry. “For almost half a century, workers in the VFX industry have been denied the same protections and benefits their coworkers and crewmates have relied upon since the beginning of the Hollywood film industry. This is a historic first step for VFX workers coming together with a collective voice demanding respect for what we do,” IATSE VFX organiser Mark Patch said in a statement. IATSE International president Matthew D. Loeb congratulated the VFX workers on taking the important step of using their voices collectively. “Entertainment workers everywhere are sticking up for one another’s rights. That’s what our movement is all about. I urge Marvel Studios to voluntarily recognise their union immediately,” he said. Scene from Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. – MARVEL

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 WELL-KNOWN American rock band Mr Big is scheduled to hold a performance in Kuala Lumpur as part of its u l t i m a t e global tour, titled The BIG Finish. Established in 1988, the band has g a i n e d i m m e n s e popularity for their hit songs like To Be With You, Just Take My Heart and Wild World. The band has already kicked off its worldwide tour, starting with a concert in Japan on July 20. Presented by Shiraz Projects, the iconic band is poised to make a memorable appearance in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 14, as the final stop of their Asian tour for the grand event. Expressing enthusiasm, the Shiraz Projects director, Shirazdeen Karim, shared: “With a remarkable 35-year journey in the music industry and a repertoire of numerous hits, we are thrilled to bring the iconic Mr Big to Kuala Lumpur as part of this special farewell tour.” The performance will take place at Zepp KL, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The band consists of lead vocalist Eric Martin, bassist/vocalist Billy Sheehan, and guitarist/vocalist Paul G i l b e r t . Accompanying them on drums is a familiar face and longtime friend of the band, Nick D’Virgilio. D’Virgilio is stepping into the role previously held by founding drummer and vocalist Pat Torpey, who valiantly battled Parkinson’s until his passing in 2018. A highlight of The Big Finish set list is the pivotal platinum-selling album from 1991, Lean Into It. Mr Big shared in a Facebook post: “We are thrilled to announce that our RENOWNED entertainment streaming platform Qalbox, known for its diverse range of global Muslim content, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Astro in Malaysia to showcase Muslim-oriented education and entertainment. Aligned with Qalbox’s mission to serve as a comprehensive digital destination for all things related to Islam, this significant collaboration marks a transformative milestone in the nation’s entertainment arena. “We are thrilled to collaborate with Astro, Malaysia’s leading e n t e r t a i n m e n t provider, to expand Qalbox’s reach and impact within the Malaysian audience,” said Muslim Pro coCEO, Fara Abdullah. “Through this partnership, our vision of establishing ourselves as a global Muslim content and entertainment hub and providing a platform for Muslim creatives and filmmakers becomes more concrete. With our diverse content offerings, we are confident that Qalbox will deeply resonate with the Malaysian audience, delivering an unparalleled entertainment experience.” Since it was launched, Qalbox has been conveniently available through the Muslim Pro app, online and on television. Throughout this time, Muslim Pro has continuously displayed a solid dedication to investing in the Malaysian market. Recognising the country’s youthful and technology-savvy Muslim demographic, along with the government’s aspirations to position Malaysia as a technological centre for Islamic content, Muslim Pro unveiled Qalbox in Kuala Lumpur in December 2022. Within this collaborative endeavour, Qalbox will be introduced as an add-on feature to all Astro Ultra and Ulti Boxes, providing an extensive array of content meticulously tailored to cater to the needs of the Muslim community. As part of this strategic partnership, Astro Ultra/Ulti Box owners will receive a two-month Qalbox and Muslim Pro subscription. This remarkable offer will be available from July 27 until Sept 26. Enjoy a wide range of topics and features. Qalbox continues to highlight Muslim identities and the seamless integration of faith into daily life. This mission is shown in a wide range of genres, including famous feature films, captivating series, enlightening Islamic documentaries, animated content for children and reality television. Viewers are urged to take in a variety of Qalbox originals, including intellectually stimulating series such as I Am Muslim, heartwarming narratives in Food From the Heart, and the spiritually uplifting recitation of Tadaruz Al-Quran. Younger audiences can also engage with offerings like Islam for Kids and Recite and Learn: The Word of Allah, both of which deliver engaging and educational content. Astro’s Group Chief Financial Officer Shafiq Abdul Jabbar said: “We are delighted to have this venture with Muslim Pro, the world’s most popular Muslim lifestyle app, and believe this will further complement Astro’s robust content offering, from Astro Signatures and Astro Originals to the best in live sport and news, to children’s animation, and now the rich diversity of Muslim cultures globally, all within a simple touch of a button.” Astro and Muslim Pro are dedicated to building a vibrant community of entertainment enthusiasts who enjoy culturally diverse and spiritually enriching content. This partnership has the potential to revolutionise Malaysian entertainment by offering an exclusive realm that honours and celebrates Muslim culture and identity in the comfort of their homes. █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL Bitsmedia’s Nik Emir and Fara. – PICS BY QALBOX Qalbox and Astro provide the nation’s best Muslim-focused entertainment. (From 4th left) Qalbox Original stars Mat Dan, Dr Syazwan Basil, Puan Zaliah and Tuan Saidi. Official concert poster. – SHIRAZ PROJECTS Kuala Lumpur as part of the band’s farewell tour. – BANDWAG ON.ASIA oAstro and Qalbox offer great Islamic content for Malaysians █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL performance will feature the complete Lean Into It album, including our chart-topping sensation, To Be With You.” Renowned for their skillful fusion of diverse musical genres such as hard rock and pop, the members of Mr. Big are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to grace the stage and deliver an unforgettable performance to their devoted fans, marking a final, poignant chapter in their illustrious musical career. Fans of the timeless melodies and electrifying stage presence of the Hard Rock, Glam Metal, Rock and Heavy Metal bands can secure their seats for this historic event exclusively through the reputable ticketing platform myticket.asia. To remain informed on the latest developments and concert-related updates, stay tuned to the official social media channels of Shiraz Projects, the driving force behind this musical extravaganza. Grand finale of Mr Big’s The BIG Finish A new partnership upgrades Muslim entertainment

18 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 Showing off the fruits of their labour. – PICS BY PRIME VIDEO /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME The untold story of the Musang King I N a vibrant realm of fruits, where flavours reigned supreme and sweetness was the prevailing delight, there existed a majestic presence known as the Musang King. This distinguished fruit, a true taste monarch, ascended its throne with an air of grandeur and an irresistible allure that enchanted all who came into its regal presence. Amid the sun-kissed shades of gold and amber embracing its velvety skin, the Musang King stood tall and proud, emanating an opulent air that hinted at the treasures hidden within. Its form, reminiscent of a meticulously carved gem, displayed a symphony of graceful curves, evoking admiration and longing from all who beheld it. The Musang King’s fragrance, fit for royalty, wafted through the air, weaving a seductive tapestry of aromatic notes. It danced between the realms of sweet and earthy, with hints of caramelised banana, vanilla and a touch of heavenly spice. This olfactory composition tantalises the senses, beckoning all to partake in its indulgence. Witness the crowning jewel of the Musang King – its thick and creamy flesh. As the fruit is carefully split open, a revelation unfurls, exposing a trove of luscious golden strands, akin to threads of gold spun by nature’s hand. Each bite becomes an unparalleled experience, with a creamy, velvety sweetness enveloping the palate and leaving behind a trail of delight. It is a flavour that lingers, an enduring presence etched into the memory of those fortunate enough to savour it. In the realm of fruits, Musang King reigns supreme, towering above its contenders. Its exquisite flavour, enchanting aroma and regal appearance truly made it a king – a sovereign delighting the taste buds of those in search of fruity excellence. Long live the reign of the Musang King, a perpetual reminder of nature’s bountiful splendour. Love on a fruit plantation For this splendid fruit and its untold narrative, Prime Video presents The King of Musang King. Set in Malaysia, the movie delves into the captivating oPrime Video’s exclusive latest delicious offering █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Perfect for the entire family PCA’s Hall Of Fame. - PARENTH OOD MEDIA NETWORK █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ A happy result. THE highly anticipated 6th annual Parents’ Choice Awards (PCA) took place in a splendid event, honouring outstanding brands in Malaysia that consistently excel in providing products and services for parents and children. Organised by Parenthood Magazine, the Parents’ Choice Awards 2023 brought together distinguished local and international brands, all striving to be recognised as leaders in their respective categories. Earlier this year, readers of Parenthood Magazine voted for various product and service categories. This year’s awards included categories like Best Footwear Brand for Kids, Best Family Board Game, Best Edutainment Park, Best Shopping Mall for Families and more. Parenthood Media Network Managing director, Teresa Chin, emphasised that in a rapidly changing world, making the right choices for our children can be challenging. She expressed the organisation’s goal to assist parents by offering solutions without compromise and simplifying tough decisions. PCA remain a trusted standard for quality in Malaysia, aiding families in making well-informed choices as world of this widely coveted fruit. Amid a backdrop of a middle-aged love triangle and clever wordplay, the film introduces Mei Lian, a woman left by her husband in pursuit of success abroad. While she tends to her late father’s durian plantation and raises her children alone, Mao Shan, an ambitious durian farmer, emerges. Mao Shan dreams of expanding his sales overseas, despite the pressures from the formidable “Three Heavenly Kings” of the industry. He lends a hand to Mei Lian, his neighbour and sole supporter, to enhance her durian farm yields. In the process, emotions blossom between them. However, Mei Lian’s long-absent husband, Jin Shui, reenters her life, adding complexity to their relationship. Jin Shui strives to influence Mei Lian’s children against Mao Shan, while Mao Shan battles to salvage their businesses and win Mei Lian’s heart. Yet, that’s not all – prepare to plunge into their epic escapades, uncovering the mysteries behind cultivating this exquisite fruit cherished by mankind. Get ready to peel back the layers of the durian trade, embarking on a whimsical journey that promises a “duriantastic” experience. Don’t miss out on The King of Musang King, exclusively available on Prime Video in Malaysia since July 27. A possible altercation. Working together in contentment. Lego once again wins the Best Toy Brand Award in PCA 2023. The other awards listed. they nurture and grow with their children. This year’s PCA honoured exceptional brands, including Lego for Best Toy Brand, Vicks Vaporub for Best Topical Ointment, Skechers for Best Footwear Brand for Kids, Monopoly for Best Family Board Game, Play-Doh for Best Clay Craft Brand, Enfagrow A+ Mindpro for Best Growing Up Milk, and Follow Me for Best Anti-Bacterial Body Wash, and more. Service categories recognised Genting Skyworlds Theme Park as Best Outdoor Family Attraction, IOI City Farm as Best Indoor Farm Park, Nextgen Theme Park as Best Edutainment Park, Sunway Medical Centre as Best Cancer Centre, Pavilion Bukit Jalil as Best Shopping Mall for Families, TMC Fertility & Women’s Specialist Centre as Best Fertility Centre and REAL Kids for Best Early Childhood Programme. A comprehensive list of award winners can be found on the official PCA website at parenthood.my.

19 GAMING & TECH theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 birthdays and school programmes. With a commitment to safety and world-class facilities, Camp5 propels climbers towards new horizons, unlocking the thrill of scaling new heights. Safety first Throughout its 18-year journey, one constant remains unwavering, Camp5’s steadfast commitment to climber safety. With dedication, the goal is to empower the climbing community with insights and knowledge on the best safety practices. This wealth of knowledge and experience is shared with newcomers through programmes that have enabled countless KL residents to obtain their climbing licences. Rigorous staff training leads to international climbing instructor certification, catering to those aspiring to build a career in climbing. At the core of Camp5’s mission lies the tagline “Climbing for Everyone.” For a comprehensive guide to embarking on your climbing journey, visit camp5.com. Magic: The Gathering – Commander Masters EXHILARATINGLY, Commander Masters is the latest set for the world’s oldest and most popular trading card game, Magic: The Gathering (MTG), released by Wizards of the Coast. Commander Masters is the first Masters collection that is officially linked to Commander, which is one of the most popular ways to play Magic: the Gathering. The collection includes beloved reprints as well as 40 powerful new cards geared for multiplayer play. It was made available on Aug 4 exclusively for tabletop gaming through local gaming stores and internet vendors. Other than that, the headliners of Commander Masters are new collectible versions of fan-favourite cards, including treatments like the new Borderless Frame Break style, in which artwork erupts out of the card. For those wishing to add extremely uncommon and intriguing cards to their collection, fan favourite foil treatments, etched and textured, return and enjoy. The Borderless Profile series also features variant imagery for a number of Legendary creatures, highlighting them in a different way. All Borderless versions of cards are available in every type of booster pack, making this the most accessible Masters collection for collectors to date. To explain further, Commander Masters also offers four highpowered, preconstructed 100-card Commander Masters. - PICS BY WIZARDS OF THE COAST █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Arcane Signet. Land Tax. Commodore Guff. Sliver Gravemother. Commander Decks, allowing players to jump right into a Commander game. Each deck is built around a popular and powerful archetype not seen in preconstructed Commander decks to date. All four decks have ten freshly designed cards, a foil-etched Commander, and cards with significantly greater power levels than players are accustomed to. Commander is the most popular and widely played format in Magic: The Gathering, and this set gives the ideal preconstructed experience. Commander Masters include Draft Boosters, Set Boosters, Collector Boosters and Commander Decks. For more information about MTG Commander Masters, go to magic.wizards.com/en/products/c ommander-masters. Climbers’ paradise I NDOOR rock climbing facility, Camp5, has unveiled its latest gem within KL East Mall, marking its sixth establishment. This addition stands as a focal point for climbers in Kuala Lumpur, with Batu Caves being the preferred destination for both local enthusiasts and global climbers seeking its famed crags. Nestled within a space embraced by floor-to-ceiling glass, Camp5 KL East is illuminated by natural light, offering a panoramic view upon entry. It offers a diverse array of climbing options, ranging from three to 4.5m boulder walls, 12m toproping and auto-belay walls, to towering lead climbing walls soaring 15m high. Beyond recreation, Camp5 KL East extends its embrace to include spaces for callisthenics, TRX and other forms of suspension and weight training. Showcasing cutting-edge Walltopia technology, the gym’s wooden-panelled walls boast an inviting aesthetic. Quality craftsmanship is evident throughout, from German canvas covering boulder mats to vivid largevolume holds from renowned international brands. Exploration and discovery are part of climbing. – PICS BY CAMP5 oKL East Mall welcomes Camp5’s sixth venue █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL (From left) Taqiuddin, Tia and Mohd Redha. Great amenities Ensuring comfort, Camp5 is fully airconditioned, offering complimentary lockers and rejuvenating hot showers. The Eat Well Cafe refuels climbers with health-conscious meals that prioritise nourishment without compromising on taste. Several accomplished Malaysian climbers displayed their abilities on the preview day. Notable among them were figures such as Mohd Redha Rozlan, a renowned ninja warrior who holds five SEA Games silver medals, former national climber Taqiuddin Zulkifli, and Tia Fuzly, a recent double bronze medalist at the SEA Games. Championing inclusivity with the mantra of #EveryoneCanClimb, Camp5 has welcomed over 150,000 climbers since its inception in 2005, fostering a community through diverse avenues like team-building, Camp5 KL East Mall offers a diverse array of climbing options.

20 EDUCATION theSun LYFE ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 considerably, saving time and money for the applicant. An applicant with only SPM for university entrance applications, for example, would usually qualify for diploma studies only. With APEL C, is possible to pursue a bachelor’s degree directly. Another flexible option for adult learners to pursue their education is a micro-credential programme, which offers industry-in-demand programmes that provide flexible and easy learning assessments. This fulfils the need for comprehensive education in preferred areas of study, and these stackable programmes will allow for exemptions into academic programmes at MSU. The MSU APEL Centre is managed by the MSU Continuing and Extended Education Centre (CEdEC). Apart from APEL, CEdEC also offered Microcredentials, which are awarded upon completion and assessment of short, competency-based training designed to fulfil a growing need for comprehensive education in preferred areas of study. MSU currently offers Micro-Credential courses in Music, Hospitality, Culinary Arts, Fashion and Beauty, Account and Finance, Business and Marketing, Media Science and Graphic, Medical and Health Sciences, Language and Communication, Education and Social Sciences, and Information Science and Technology. Among the best in the region, the university’s programmes of study are meticulously crafted to enhance graduate potential, producing graduates that are popular picks among employers. For more information on postgraduate programmes offered at MSU, please call 603-5521 6868, email [email protected] or visit msu.edu.my. LIFELONG learning refers to the process of gaining knowledge and learning new skills throughout your life. Many people continue their education for personal development and fulfilment, while others see it as a significant step towards career advancement. As one of Malaysia’s recognised national Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) centres, Management and Science University (MSU) offers new breakthrough pathways for working adults wishing to further their studies. A wide range of programmes are offered for students’ convenience, with their educational and professional backgrounds in mind. With ten locations, including Sabah and Sarawak, for potential candidates to take the APEL Aptitude Test as the non-conventional pre-qualification for entry into higher studies, MSU currently offers APEL (A) and APEL (C) at T-3 (Certificate), T-4 (Diploma), T-6 (Bachelor’s degree), and T-7 (Master’s degree) levels. Introduced and approved by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), APEL widens access to higher education for adult learners who are very work-experienced yet lacking in academic qualifications. APEL’s main aim is to excel at providing continuing education in tandem with society’s current needs. While promoting lifelong education, APEL offers programmes that best suit those in need of flexibility, in the scheduling and overall conduct of their learning experiences. APEL (A), or Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning, provides working professionals with a direct pathway towards higher education without prior formal educational qualifications. It is a systematic process that involves the identification, documentation and assessment of prior experiential learning to determine the extent to which an individual has achieved the desired learning outcomes for access to a programme of study and/or the award of credits. APEL (C), or Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning via Credit Transfer, allows the assessment of credits against matching modules in a programme of study. The APEL C pathway provides credit transfer for entry into diploma programmes right up to PhD level. Once an APEL C applicant’s competency level is determined, those credits can shorten his or her entire study duration oMore options available for working adults via APEL MSU opens new pathways MSU’s sprawling campus for students in Shah Alam. – MSU

21 SPORTS theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF AKALMAS SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO. 198401013596 (126157-V) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the members of AKALMAS SDN. BHD. duly convened and held at Unit 20-05, Level 20, Q Sentral, 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur on Sunday, 6 August 2023 the following Special Resolution was duly passed:- THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily by way of Members’ Voluntary Winding Up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 AND THAT Ng Kee Chong (NRIC No. 560517-10-5629) of No. 2, Jalan 12/11, Seksyen 12, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up, with all the powers given by Section 456 of the Companies Act 2016. NG KEE CHONG Liquidator Kuala Lumpur 15 August 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF AKALMAS SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO. 198401013596 (126157-V) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, on or before the Monday, 18 September 2023, being the day for that purpose or fixed by the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company, to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims, and the names and addresses of their solicitors, if any, to the undersigned, and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, either by their solicitors or personally are to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. NG KEE CHONG Liquidator Unit 20-05, Level 20, Q Sentral 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2 Kuala Lumpur Sentral 50470 Kuala Lumpur W.P. Kuala Lumpur 15 August 2023 322 Notices Major boost for Vu American wins British Open and set to replace Korda as world No. 1 AMERICAN Lilia Vu sealed her second major title of the year with a dominant six-shot victory over Charley Hull at the Women’s British Open yesterday. The 25-year-old posted a final round 67 to finish on 14-under, and is now set to replace Nelly Korda as the new world No. 1. “It sounds almost unreal to hear my name announced as champion,” said Vu, breaking down in tears after her triumph. “I’ve had a tough couple of months and I just wanted to be in contention this week.” Vu won her first LPGA tournament in Thailand in February and then claimed her first major in April at the Chevron Championship. But she missed the cut at the next two majors – the LPGA Championship and the US Women’s Open. “I thought my two wins were just a fluke, I lost confidence,” she said as the tears began to flow. “But I’ve got a great family and team around me and they gave me belief.” Vu appeared very calm as she plotted her way to the trophy, but she continued: “I wasn’t calm inside. Even on the last putt (she holed from 25 feet for birdie at the 18th) my caddie just told me how to hit it.” Vu was also grateful to the British fans. Playing alongside Hull, who started the day tied with the eventual winner but had to settle for second place, she was always going to come second best in the cheer stakes. “But the crowd was great,” said Vu. “I love playing with Charley and I understood that most people wanted her to win. But there were cheers for me too and it was very fair.” Hull, who also finished second in the US Women’s Open, admitted she felt a bit deflated after a closing 73. “But I’m going to work even harder to win a major. “I came from behind at the US Open and here I was tied for the lead going into the final round. I now can’t wait for next year.” Even a demonstration by climate activists Just Stop Oil at the short 17th - powder was thrown onto the green – could not spoil Vu’s march to victory. Jiyai Shin was alone in third at 7-under after a 70 yesterday, with fellow South Koreans Amy Yang (70) and Hyo Joo Kim (74) tied for fourth at 6-under. “It wasn’t easy out there. It was windy,” Yang said. “The course was playing firmer than the last three rounds. “But I think I stayed really strong and patient out there. I’m just happy how I finished this week.” Ally Ewing, who had a five-stroke lead through two rounds, carded her second consecutive 75 and finished tied for sixth with Angel Yin (76) and reigning US Open champion Allisen Corpuz (69) at 4-under. – AFP/Reuters Joshua confident of Wilder fight ANTHONY JOSHUA is confident a potential fight with Deontay Wilder will happen soon and insists he continues to carry the heavyweight division. Joshua claimed the 26th victory of his professional career on Sunday with a thunderous seventh-round stoppage of lastminute opponent Robert Helenius at London’s O2 Arena. While it was a spectacular finish, Joshua faced boos during the third round before jeers returned by the halfway mark following another pedestrian round. The sold-out crowd were up on their feet after one minute and 27 seconds of round seven, but this contest was always a stepping stone to an eagerly-anticipated clash with exWBC belt-holder Wilder. Discussions between the camps of Joshua and Wilder continue to take place with Saudi Arabia’s promotional company Skills Challenge looking to host the bout between former champions in January or February. “Any time is a good time to fight. It could have been Wilder eight years ago or Wilder now. It don’t matter,” Joshua insisted. “It is only a fight and boxing wins so roll on really. There is no worry to me when it is. “I am just happy we can get the fight going and I think people appreciate that I am doing my best to keep heavyweight boxing on the map. “Yeah, we’re carrying heavyweight boxing. I have believed that for years I have played my part in bringing entertainment to heavyweight boxing. “That is why you are asking about the Wilder fight. I am not comparing what it could have been, I’m just happy that we’re getting this fight under way potentially soon because it does great for boxing.” – The Independent AFTER winning last week’s PGA Tour regular-season finale, Lucas Glover said TPC Southwind, the next stop on tour, was one of the more underrated courses the pros play each year. He was glad to be making that trip at all. Now he’s doubled his pleasure by making it two wins in two weeks. Glover parred the first playoff hole to defeat Patrick Cantlay and claim the FedEx St. Jude Championship title yesterday in Memphis, Tennessee . Glover, 43, won the previous week’s Wyndham Championship to qualify for the FedEx Cup playoffs at the last possible moment. He jumped from No. 112 to No. 49 in the FedEx Cup standings – and yesterday’s victory in the first of three playoff events has rocketed him up to No. 4. “You work hard no matter what, whether you’re fighting something or you’re playing great,” Glover said on the CBS broadcast. “You just work hard because you never know when it can turn, and it’s turned very quickly for me. Luckily I’ve been in a good frame of mind to take advantage of it.” The only players ahead of Glover in the points standings now are arguably the three best players in the world: Jon Rahm of Spain, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland. Cantlay, whose tee shot at the first playoff hole found a water hazard, moved up to No. 5 thanks to his finish. Glover beat not only Cantlay, but the likes of McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, Max Homa, Collin Morikawa and Norway’s Viktor Hovland yesterday. “I said yesterday the guns would be coming, and they came,” Glover said. “I was just last man standing.” Cantlay fired a bogey-free, 6- under 64 to be the first into the clubhouse at 15-under 265. Tommy Fleetwood of England missed a birdie putt that would have tied him with Cantlay, and he settled for a round of 68 and a tie for third at 14-under with McIlroy. Taylor Moore faded to fifth place at 12-under, shooting a 1- over 71. Spieth and Homa each shot a 70 to join a large tie for sixth at 11-under. – Field Level Media Fury casts more doubt on AJ fight TYSON FURY has hinted that he may retire shortly after facing ex-UFC champion Francis Ngannou later this year – casting yet more doubt over any showdown with Anthony Joshua. The 34-year-old British boxer admitted that age is no longer on his side ahead of his meeting with former UFC champion Ngannou in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Oct. 28. The highly anticipated fight comes after months of speculation, including reports that Fury would defend his WBC title against Oleksandr Usyk, or face fellow Brit Joshua. Fury instead chose to fight 36-year-old MMA icon Ngannou over 10 rounds in the boxing ring. While Fury is still a box-office fighter he is in the twilight of his career, something which has prompted him to consider retirement. “Age catches up with everybody,” Fury said during an appearance on Heart Radio. “And every top-performance athlete at 35 is probably past their best. But I just feel like I’m getting better and more intelligent as I’m getting older. So who knows how long I’ve got left? Maybe not long, maybe a year, maybe two years. Maybe one fight. Who knows?” Smith runs away with LIV Bedminster title CAMERON SMITH of Australia posted a 3-under 68 to complete a wire-to-wire victory at LIV Golf Bedminster yesterday in Bedminster, New Jersey. Smith’s three-day total of 12-under 201 was seven shots better than India’s Anirban Lahiri, who had a final-round 70 at Trump National Golf Club. It is Smith’s second win in as many months after prevailing at the LIV event outside London in July. The team Smith captains, the allAustralian Ripper GC, also picked up its first-ever victory in the team competition. Ripper ran away with the title at 20-under thanks to Smith’s score, along with Jediah Morgan’s 5-under 66 and Matt Jones’ 1-under 70 yesterday. Bryson DeChambeau’s Crushers GC and all-South African Stinger GC finished a distant second at 9- under. Abraham Ancer of Mexico (69), Patrick Reed (71) and South Africa’s Dean Burmester (72) tied for third in the individual competition at 4-under. Branden Grace of South Africa (71) was sixth at 3-under. Phil Mickelson posted a quintuple-bogey 8 at the seventh hole en route to a 4-over 75. He tied Charles Howell III (71) for ninth at 1-under. Ames lands Boeing Classic CANADA’S Stephen Ames bookended a 9- under 63 with eagles at the first and last holes yesterday to win the Boeing Classic in Snoqualmie, Washington. Ames broke away from the pack by going 6-under over his final five holes – four birdies at Nos. 14-17, then an eagle 3 at No. 18. That allowed him to tie the tournament record with a 19-under 197 over three rounds at The Club at Snoqualmie Ridge, seven shots better than defending champion Miguel Angel Jimenez of Spain in second place. “I think anybody would take that, obviously,” Ames said of the finishing run. “Closing like that, just kind of freewheeling it a little bit. I hit the shots that I needed to hit coming down the end and everything just clicked and everything came out the way you usually see it. Not always does it happen like that. But I guess I was in a different time zone there when I was playing the last four holes.” Dravid laments India batting INDIA must improve their batting depth with the 50-overs World Cup on the horizon, coach Rahul Dravid said after his team lost their Twenty20 series against the West Indies 3-2 in Florida yesterday. A young Indian side missing several big names battled back from 0-2 down in the five-match series but crashed to an eightwicket defeat at Lauderhill, with opener Brandon King helping West Indies chase down the victory target with an unbeaten 85. Suryakumar Yadav hit 61 off 45 balls but had little support from the middle and lower order as India posted a modest 165-9 in 20 overs. The West Indies finished 171-2 from 18 overs with Nicholas Pooran (47) supporting King. “Our one-day team is really different to the squad that we had here. But yeah, it didn’t allow us the flexibility to change the combinations a little bit,” Dravid told reporters. “But going forward, we’ve got to look at certain areas in which we can get better. Finding depth in our batting has been an area we’re trying to address.” BRIEFS Glover edges past Cantlay to claim back-to-back wins Lilia Vu poses with the winner’s trophy after victory in the 2023 Women’s British Open Golf Championship. – AFPPIX

22 theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 SPORTS Xavi, Raphinha sent off as Getafe frustrate Catalan giants RAPHINHA and head coach Xavi both saw red as Barcelona got their La Liga title defence under way with a goalless draw at Getafe in a tempestuous affair that saw both sides finish with 10 players. Raphinha came close to breaking the deadlock when his shot was saved by David Soria before rebounding off Stefan Mitrovic and on to a post, but the Barcelona winger was given his marching orders soon after. Having been booked for dissent moments earlier, the Brazilian was given a straight red after appearing to use his forearm in an off-theball clash with Gaston Alvarez, prompting uproar from Getafe’s bench. The incident on the stroke of half-time left Barcelona a man down with more than half the game to go but the sides were evened up just before the hour when Jaime Mata received a second yellow card. Robert Lewandowski saw a looping header cleared off the line by Alvarez before, with 20 minutes left, Xavi was given his marching orders for arguing with the officials. Barcelona dominated possession and had 14 shots to their opponents’ five on a steamy night in the Spanish capital but ultimately drew a blank in a clash that produced eight yellows and the three red cards. They thought they should have had a penalty in the 12th minute of added-on time, with referee Cesar Soto Grado checking the monitors following potential fouls on Gavi and Ronald Araujo. But the official saw no transgression by the Getafe defence and the hosts held on to secure a point. The Catalans had failed to score in their three previous visits to the Coliseum Alfonso Perez and Getafe got into Barcelona’s faces from the start. Xavi complained about the length of the grass at Getafe last season, saying it ruined the spectacle of the match, and this time it was repeated fouls which disrupted the champions’ rhythm. “It’s normal that people don’t want to watch football, this has barely been a game,” Xavi told reporters. “A point for us is not sufficient but this was a very difficult game for us to play.” Xavi was also unimpressed with the long periods of stoppage time as a solution to time wasting. “This is also shameful, in my opinion,” he said. “With ‘effective time’ (stopping the clock) in football you put a stop to this. “I’ve said it a thousand times already – we’re making fools of ourselves.” After Ousmane Dembele’s departure last week to Paris SaintGermain, the onus was on Raphinha to step up and show his quality on the right flank after a mixed first season. “It’s obvious that it’s a clear red card and it can’t happen,” Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen told DAZN. “We played well, we didn’t want the match to stop so much, and tried to play as quickly as possible, but it was very difficult because of the opponents.” In other matches, Goals from Ayoze Perez and Willian Jose – in the 90th minute – secured a 2-1 victory for Real Betis at Villarreal, who had equalised through Jorge Cuenca, while Ruben Garcia and Moi Gomez were on target as Osasuna won 2-0 at Celta Vigo. – The Independent Sweden’s Rolfo no longer cheering for Spain SWEDEN’S Fridolina Rolfo has been cheering on her Barcelona teammates playing for Spain at the Women’s World Cup but will now hope to send them packing from the tournament after today’s semifinal. Nine of the winger’s club teammates were in the La Roja squad that edged the Netherlands 2-1 in the quarterfinal in Auckland on Friday, including both goalscorers, Mariona Caldentey and Salma Paralluelo. Rolfo said she has a “special bond” with the Barcelona cohort, having shared back-to-back championships in Spain’s domestic women’s league and won the Women’s Champions League with them. “I have been cheering for them in every game. We have been sending each other messages throughout the tournament – congratulations when they win or we win,” the 29-year-old said in comments published by FIFA yesterday. “I want them to go far in this tournament. Or I did. I think they’ve now gone far enough.” One of Rolfo’s closest friends at Barcelona is also one of Spain’s best players at the World Cup. Quick-footed midfielder Aitana Bonmati has been Spain’s engine room during their first trip to a World Cup semifinals. “What can you say? She’s absolutely amazing,” said Rolfo. “She had a great season for Barcelona, and she’s having an incredible World Cup. “To be honest, even though people are talking about her a lot, I still don’t think she gets the credit she deserves.” Sweden, who meet Spain at Auckland’s Eden Park, will hope to book their first World Cup final since their runner-up finish at the 2003 tournament won by Germany. “I can’t promise that we will beat Spain, but I can promise that we will give it everything. “We’ve come close (to a major trophy). Now we want to win this title for Sweden and the Swedish people.” – AFP MACKENZIE ARNOLD wasn’t even Australia’s first-choice goalkeeper until recently, but is now being hailed as a national hero and stands in England’s way in their Women’s World Cup semifinal tomorrow. Arnold played a central role in the penalty drama on Saturday which sent co-hosts Australia into the last four of the World Cup for the first time. She saved three penalty kicks – and missed one of her own – to help propel the Matildas to a thrilling 7-6 shootout win over France in the quarterfinals. It has been a whirlwind few months for the 29-year-old. The West Ham United stopper has been part of the Matildas set-up for more than a decade but she was third choice for much of the time, spending the 2015 and 2019 World Cups on the bench. It is only this year that Arnold finally became coach Tony Gustavsson’s first-choice between the posts. National broadcaster ABC called Arnold “a cult hero” and The Sydney Morning Herald said she was “a national hero”. Reflecting her sudden rise to national acclaim, the newspaper ran a story headlined, “Who is Mackenzie Arnold? Meet the goalkeeper with nerves of steel who sent the Matildas to the semifinals.” The Australian players sang Arnold’s name in the dressing room afterwards and vice-skipper Steph Catley said: “She’s incredible. She did something so special tonight.” Following her display on Saturday, which included keeping France scoreless over 120 minutes to force the penalty shootout, Arnold said she was not even feeling 100%. Looking a little glassy-eyed, she told reporters who swarmed around her: “I haven’t been too well in the last couple of weeks. I’m still getting over that – hence the eyes. This isn’t tears yet.” Arnold put her penalty-saving heroics down to instinct more than anything else. “We do have a little bit of research obviously that goes on behind the scenes, and communication with coaches as well,” she said. “I think I just tend to stay a little bit calm, but I wouldn’t say I read it too well. It’s gut instinct that I just go with.” – AFP Arnold stands in England’s way Vieira gets Strasbourg off to winning start MONACO captain Wissam Ben Yedder scored twice in a 4-2 win at Clermont yesterday after he was charged with rape this week, while Strasbourg made a winning start to life under Patrick Vieira by beating Lyon. France international Ben Yedder on Friday was charged with rape, attempted rape and sexual assault over an alleged incident that happened on the Cote d’Azur in July. He has been placed under judicial supervision and had to pay bail of €900,000 (RM4.5m). But the 33-year-old forward started his team’s opening game of the season, striking in both halves as Monaco made a winning start under new Austrian coach Adi Hutter. “I congratulate him (Ben Yedder), he had a very good reaction,” said Hutter. “I have purely a sporting relationship with him, from coach to player. We only speak about the pitch and my job is to put the best players out there and he’s among them.” Vieira made the perfect start to his first job since being sacked by Premier League club Crystal Palace last season as Strasbourg saw off Lyon, coached by Vieira’s 1998 World Cup-winning France teammate Laurent Blanc, 2-1. “We wanted to play a little more, but the quality of Lyon prevented it,” said Vieira. “We are starting a cycle with players who don’t have much experience of Ligue 1.” Last year’s runners-up Lens came unstuck, blowing a twogoal lead to lose 3-2 at Brest earlier in the day. “What’s disconcerting is to play 40 minutes of this quality, when with a bit more accuracy we should have been leading 3-0 and when there’s only one team on the pitch… and then let certain things go,” said Lens coach Franck Haise. – AFP Pegula hungry for more success AMERICAN Jessica Pegula was a model of consistency without any trophies to show for it heading into the Canadian Open, but the world No. 3 said she was hungry for more success after ending a stellar week with her first title of the season. The 29-year-old has reached the quarterfinals or beyond in 10 of her 13 tournaments on the tour this season after capping her Montreal run by beating Liudmila Samsonova 6-1, 6-0 in the final for her third title overall and second WTA 1000 crown. Pegula beat doubles partner Coco Gauff in the quarters before sealing a second career victory over world No. 1 Iga Swiatek to hit top gear ahead of this week’s Cincinnati Open and the Aug. 28-Sept. 10 US Open. “Beating Coco and Iga were two tough wins back-to-back and being able to do that and then come out and play a really clean match was great,” Pegula told reporters. “I felt I didn’t have a ton of pressure at any point or I wasn’t worried too much. “We’re out on tour to win tournaments and win titles every single week, but tennis can be really tough where you sometimes lose a lot. “Even when you’re winning a lot of matches, you’re still not winning tournaments, so it can get tough. “Winning a week like this week makes it all worth it and makes you want to keep going for more. I’ll be right back at it in Cincinnati.” Rybakina takes aim at WTA ELENA RYBAKINA said she felt “destroyed” by the Canadian Open schedule and took aim at the WTA’s “weak” leadership after the world No. 4’s quarterfinal ended at 3am on Saturday and her semifinal was postponed to Sunday because of rain. Rybakina beat Daria Kasatkina in a marathon last-eight clash lasting three hours and 27 minutes before rain forced the Kazakh to wait until the final day of the tournament to meet Liudmila Samsonova in the next round. She went on to lose 1-6, 6-1, 6-2 to Samsonova, who turned up again around two hours later for the final and was defeated by Jessica Pegula. “I feel destroyed because of the scheduling and the whole situation. I’m not really happy about it, but it is what it is,” said Rybakina, who had her right shoulder strapped. “Hopefully it’s the last time, because it’s been a bit unprofessional from the… I can’t say really the tournament because I think that the most important is the WTA here,” Rybakina said. “Leadership a little bit weak for now but hopefully something is going to change.” Sinner storms past de Minaur JANNIK SINNER came up third time lucky in a Masters 1000 final yesterday as he won the Toronto title 6-4, 6-1 over Alex de Minaur. The seventh seed became only the second Italian to lift a trophy in the elite series, following Fabio Fognini, champion at Monte Carlo four years ago. Sinner lost a pair of Masters finals in Miami in 2021 and last April but could not contain his enthusiasm after storming past his Australian opponent in 90 minutes. The player who turns 22 tomorrow improved to 12-0 versus Australians dating to the 2021 US Open. “I’m getting used to the difficult situations,” the winner said. “Twice in the first set I was up a break up and he broke back. “But I stayed calm mentally, I was prepared for a long battle. “I’m happy with how I reacted. In the second set I played better and tried to be more aggressive. “It was tough today with the wind, I’m happy with my level today,” the Wimbledon semifinalist said. “This makes you feel like you are doing the right thing.” Sinner will rise to sixth in the world as a result of his Canadian success. SHORTS Barcelona see red Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong (right) vies with Getafe’s Anthony Lozano. – AFPPIX

23 * SPORTS theSUN ON TUESDAY | AUGUST 15, 2023 READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME NEWCASTLE boss Eddie Howe is relishing the dilemma of having to disappoint players as he attempts to negotiate a path through a season which could see his squad stretched to its limits. The 45-year-old left summer signings Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento, as well as last season’s top scorer Callum Wilson, sitting on the bench for Sunday’s Premier League opener, but saw Wilson and Barnes come on and score in a 5-1 demolition of Aston Villa. Howe admitted in the run-up to the game that he had “five or six” difficult decisions to make in the light of a fresh £125 million (RM725m) spending spree, Anthony Gordon’s pre-season form and the emergence of homegrown midfielder Elliot Anderson, but that is a problem he welcomes with a Champions League campaign looming. He said: “They’re dilemmas that are needed because we’re going to need the strongest squad possible, and the players who missed out will play loads of games this season. “That’s just a fact because we’re in so many different competitions, we’re going to be stretched and we’ll also be needing their quality as well. “It’s going to be nice to be able to make those decisions. We need the strongest bench we can get this year with the amount of games we’re going to have, the amount of competitions we’re in. “It was certainly difficult to name the team (against Villa). They weren’t easy decisions for me to make – decisions I had to make, of course, being in my position – and then you just hope the team performs and you get the benefit of that squad.” One of those decisions saw Howe hand a debut to £52m (RM301m) former AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali, and it paid off handsomely as the 23- year-old not only opened the scoring within six minutes, but produced a commanding display on his first appearance in England’s top flight. Villa’s record signing Moussa Diaby cancelled out the Italian’s early strike in short order, but his response was to play a pivotal role as Newcastle overwhelmed the visitors, Alexander Isak helping himself to a double either side of the unfortunate Tyrone Mings’ departure on a stretcher before substitutes Wilson and Barnes added their names to the scoresheet late on. Howe was understandably delighted, but equally confident there is more to come. He said: “We didn’t defend perfectly, so there’s stuff for us to improve – but it was a weird situation. I thought they (Villa) played well, but we could have scored more goals.” Opposite number Unai Emery headed back to the midlands hoping the news on Mings is not as bad as that which saw midfielder Emiliano Buendia ruled out for an extended period with a knee injury the previous week, but taking comfort from Diaby’s impressive debut on Tyneside. Emery said: “We haven’t had all bad news and one of the good things was to watch Moussa playing feeling good and adapting to the position we’re trying to get with him. He was good, he scored and he played well. “We had some good moments in the 90 minutes, but there a lot of things we had to do to control the match that we didn’t do within our system.” – The Independent Kane opens up on Bayern transfer saga HARRY KANE did not know if his transfer from Tottenham to Bayern Munich was going to go through after a “roller coaster” two days. Kane has endured a whirlwind 72 hours since Spurs agreed a fee with the German club on Thursday, which culminated in the England captain being unveiled before the press on Sunday lunchtime. He had already made his debut by then, coming on as a substitute in the second half of the DFL-Supercup, but his wait for the first silverware of his career goes on after Bayern lost 3-0 to RB Leipzig. It was a race against time for Kane to be registered in time to play after his flight to Germany and subsequent medical was delayed after Spurs went back to the negotiating table at the last minute. The £100 million (RM580m) deal eventually got done, though Kane admits he was left sweating for a while. “It was obviously a busy couple of days, a busy week, this is my first transfer that have been involved in, it was an up-and-down experience for sure, but I am happy to be here now,” he said. “Talks have been ongoing for a couple of months ago and I always said if there was a deal that suited all three parties then we could do it. “Going into the last year of my contract I didn’t want it to be a distraction for the new manager and team at Tottenham. I was excited to come. “The last 48 hours of the deal was pretty up and down, a bit of a roller coaster, but I was just really happy when we got over the line. “Two days ago I was sitting in London and we didn’t know how it was going to go.” – The Independent CHELSEA have agreed a deal to sign Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo for a British record fee of £115 million (RM667m). Liverpool agreed a £111m (RM644m) deal for the 21-year-old Ecuador player on Friday. But Caicedo’s preference is Chelsea and they have finally succeeded with a bid after having a succession of proposals rejected by Brighton this summer. The fee means Chelsea will break the British record twice in 2023, following the £107m (RM620m) purchase of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez in January. Caicedo, who was left out of Brighton’s squad for their season-opening win at home to Luton Town, is still to have a medical. It is understood the initial fee is £100m (RM580m), with half of the additional payments said to be easily achievable, while Brighton have also negotiated a sell-on clause. Brighton had set a fee in excess of £100m for Caicedo this summer and said they felt no-one would reach it. Chelsea are believed to have bid £80m (RM464m) previously. In his news conference before the Seagulls’ game against Luton, manager Roberto de Zerbi said he had “already forgotten” about Caicedo, adding: “Bigger clubs can buy our players but they can’t buy our soul or spirit.” Caicedo signed for Brighton in February 2021 for a reported fee of £4.5m (RM29m) and was loaned to Belgian club Beerschot in August that year. He was recalled by Brighton in January 2022 after 14 appearances in Belgium and, under coach Roberto De Zerbi, Caicedo blossomed in midfield last season. He asked to leave Brighton in the January transfer window earlier this year and Arsenal had multiple offers turned down for the midfielder before he signed a new contract until 2027 in March. Caicedo will be Chelsea’s eighth signing of the summer, following Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Nicolas Jackson, Lesley Ugochukwu, Angelo Gabriel, Robert Sanchez and Diego Moreira. New manager Mauricio Pochettino has been tasked with overhauling the squad and vastly improving on last season’s 12th-place finish in the Premier League. Mateo Kovacic, Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, Christian Pulisic, Ruben LoftusCheek, Ethan Ampadu, Pierre EmerickAubameyang, Abdul Rahman Baba and former captain Cesar Azpilicueta have all departed so far this summer. – The Independent Chelsea agree RM660m deal for Caicedo █ DAMIAN SPELLMAN █ JONATHAN VEAL EPL TALKING POINTS THE new Premier League season kicked off with plenty of talking points. Mohamed Salah got stroppy, Pep Guardiola became angry, Tottenham began life without Harry Kane and Newcastle topped the embryonic table with a five-star show. Here’s a look at the key issues on the opening weekend: SALAH STROP: After the battle for Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia came the scrap for points between Chelsea and Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Honours were shared in a 1-1 draw that saw Liverpool forward Salah show his frustration after being substituted 13 minutes from time. Salah ripped off his tapes bit by bit and threw them to the ground and did not even acknowledge boss Jurgen Klopp before making his way to his seat in the Liverpool dug out. LIFE AFTER KANE: Tottenham fans saw a glimpse of their future without Harry Kane at Brentford – and it promises to be a roller-coaster ride under new boss Ange Postecoglou. Record Spurs scorer Kane was already settling into life at Bayern Munich having made his debut for the German giants on Sunday as Tottenham began their new era with a 2- 2 draw. How Spurs supporters would have relished Kane linking up with James Maddison, the stylish summer signing from Leicester who set up both Tottenham goals. While Richarlison fills Kane’s No. 9 role, Postecoglou must tighten up a defence that was porous last season and again showed signs of susceptibility in west London. A PEP TALK, BUT SAME AGAIN FROM HAALAND: Pep Guardiola showed a decent turn of foot to make his way across the Turf Moor pitch at halftime for an animated chat with star striker Erling Haaland. The Manchester City manager was annoyed that Haaland was keen to run behind the Burnley defence and risk losing possession with the defending champions leading 2-0. While some observers complained Guardiola might have been better served making his point in the dressing room, it did little to concern the scoring sensation. Haaland was back in the old routine with a clinical double inside 36 minutes and who would bet against the Norwegian eclipsing the 52 goals he scored last season as City won a Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League treble? DREAM DEBUTS: Newcastle fans needed only six minutes to find out what all the fuss over Sandro Tonali was about. The Italy international joined from AC Milan this summer for a reported £50 million (RM290m) fee and gave a commanding midfield display in the 5-1 demolition of Aston Villa. Tonali made an instant impression by volleying home Anthony Gordon’s sixth-minute cross and dovetailed superbly with Brazilian pair Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton with his athleticism, passing and vision standing out. Harvey Barnes came off the bench to also score on debut following his summer switch from Leicester and it seems set to be another exciting campaign on Tyneside after last season’s fourth-placed finish. TURNSTILES, SANITATION AND DELAYS: There has been loads of chat – and angst from some players and managers – over how long games are going to take this season with a directive for referees to add the exact time lost in goal celebrations, substitutions or injuries to the stoppage time. But delayed kickoffs because of turnstiles and water supply issues? Hardly becoming of the so-called best League in the world. Arsenal’s season kicked off in embarrassing fashion as a technical glitch prevented fans passing through the turnstiles, forcing a 30-minute delay for their home game against Nottingham Forest. Just over 24 hours later, the Brentford-Tottenham game was delayed by six minutes as a problem with the water supply meant toilets could not be used at the stadium. ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Brentford 2 (Mbeumo 26-pen, Wissa 36) Tottenham 2 (Romero 11, Emerson 45+4), Chelsea 1 (Disasi 37) Liverpool 1 (Diaz 18). LA LIGA: Celta Vigo 0 Osasuna 2 (Garcia 24, Gomez 74), Villarreal 1 (Cuenca 61) Real Betis 2 (Perez 20, Willian Jose 90+6), Getafe 0 Barcelona 0. FRENCH LIGUE 1: Brest 3 Lens 2, Nantes 1 Toulouse 2, Montpellier 2 Le Havre 2, Clermont 2 Monaco 4, Rennes 5 Metz 1, Strasbourg 2 Lyon 1. RESULTS FROM LEFT: Newcastle’s Jamaal Lascelles, Callum Wilson, Kieran Trippier and Harvey Barnes celebrate after the match on Sunday. – REUTERSPIX Good headache to have Howe relishing selection dilemmas as Newcastle prepare for packed season

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] or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME TUESDAY • AUGUST 15, 2023 Postecoglou praises Tottenham’s resilience following Kane’s departure ANGE POSTECOGLOU promised Tottenham would improve and praised the resilience of his squad for not allowing Harry Kane’s departure to distract them after they battled to a 2-2 Premier League draw at Brentford. Kane’s exit to Bayern Munich – coupled with four full debutants being used in their season opener – contributed to the start of a new dawn at Spurs and along with hosts Brentford, they produced an entertaining affair in west London. Cristian Romero headed Tottenham in front after 11 minutes before quick-fire efforts from Bees forwards Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa turned around this season opener, but James Maddison – wearing the No. 10 shirt in Kane’s absence – set up Emerson Royal to level matters on the stroke of halftime. It stayed 2-2 despite the visitors having 69% possession and 18 shots, which pleased Postecoglou to an extent but the Australian was also aware they must get better in the final third, especially following the £100 million (RM580m) sale of their record goal-scorer. “Football clubs move on pretty quickly,” Postecoglou reflected when asked if he had discussed Kane’s departure with the squad. “I haven’t needed to address it, I haven’t needed to give them a warm fuzzy cuddle just to see how they are. We had a game to prepare for and they knew that. “I think that was the important thing for us. If it felt like we were distracted, I was distracted or anyone else, I think you would have seen evidence of it today, particularly after that first half and the way it went. “We showed a real resilience that we’re going to need because it’s going to be a challenging year for sure. “It was a good starting point for us today, but we need to improve and we have to improve and we will. “I think that 2-1 down, having conceded a penalty and an own goal, it would have been very easy for us to drop our heads but I never sensed that in the group.” Despite no longer having Kane to call on and with other experienced members of the squad in Hugo Lloris and Eric Dier not involved, Postecoglou was happy to give the away fans reasons for optimism. “I thought our supporters were outstanding today,” he said. “It is fair to say we have put them through a fair bit this pre-season and all we can try and do is give them some hope and belief. “Hopefully they leave the ground, maybe disappointed we weren’t able to get the win, but at least seeing the players are fully committed to us trying to be a football team that makes an impact.” While a lot of the pre-match focus centred on Tottenham being without Kane, Brentford are missing last season’s top goal-scorer Ivan Toney until January due to his ban for repeated betting breaches. Bees boss Thomas Frank maintained there was no need for them to sign a new forward and was pleased to be validated in their opening fixture with Mbeumo and Wissa on target. He said: “There have been quite a few questions from you guys at the end of last season and the start of this about ‘will we buy a striker?’ “And I’ve said no, no, no, no and no because we believe the forward players we have will provide enough goals. “Bryan and Wissa showed it last season and I am so glad they showed it again today. “Do I want Ivan in the team? Yes, but I know he is not there before January so I am not focused too much on that, only on the players we have now.” – The Independent █ GEORGE SESSIONS MAURICIO POCHETTINO insisted Chelsea have put the disappointment of last season behind them after watching his newlook team open their Premier League campaign with a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. The hosts endured a difficult start against Jurgen Klopp’s side and deservedly fell behind to a breakaway goal by Luis Diaz after 18 minutes, guided into the bottom corner from Mohamed Salah’s fine pass. They were saved from going further behind when VAR intervened to rule out Salah’s strike for offside as Liverpool dominated for much of the first half. But Chelsea slowly eased their way back and were level when defender Axel Disasi, making his first start, stole in to touch home from Ben Chilwell’s header eight minutes before the break. VAR was called upon again to disallow Chilwell’s goal two minutes later, but thereafter Pochettino’s side settled and were a ready threat to Liverpool’s back line, with debutant striker Nicolas Jackson spurning the best chance when he fired over the bar from six yards. The manager reflected on a performance in which he felt his team showed the traumas of last season, when the club failed to challenge for silverware and finished a dismal 12th, had been exorcised. “I agree from the beginning it was tough, it was difficult,” he said. “Liverpool were better after 15-20 minutes but we started to find our ways to play and our position and what we were working on. And after that, the performance was really good. “(I am) so pleased. It is only the start, the beginning. I can say thank you to the players. “When we arrived here the first day, we don’t talk about the past, it is a long time ago. You need to move on. “The most important action in football is the next one and that is what we want to settle. We want to talk about the present and the future. We showed the belief and the team keep fighting.” Pochettino was keen to point to his team’s success in limiting the visitors to a single shot on target during the game. “Today we concede only one shot on target and we concede a goal, against Liverpool,” he said. “The team was solid. We concede only one shot on target against Liverpool but for sure we need to create more chances, to have the capacity to score more goals. I think it is the first step.” Klopp said that he had no issue with the reaction of Salah when he was brought off during the second half. The forward, who has scored in his first game of the season in each year of his Anfield career and struck the crossbar at Stamford Bridge, was visibly unhappy to be taken off as his side sought a winning goal, but the manager said he felt it was a natural response. “I can understand because if Mo scored it would have been a new record for goals scored in the opening game but I didn’t think about that,” he said. “We needed stability and we needed fresh legs. It was super intense for everybody. That’s all I can say about it. His reaction was absolutely OK.” On the game itself, Klopp declared himself happy enough with the result. “The start was pretty convincing,” he said. “We sure looked like we didn’t meet in the car park! Then we opened up the door for Chelsea. “We fought really hard, it was super intense for both teams. It’s a point at Chelsea… fine. “Second half with the crowd, we had to dig really deep and fight hard. In the end we got a point and that’s okay. “I saw a lot of things I liked and some things I didn’t like. We have a point and we keep working.” – The Independent/Agencies A new beginning Last season a long time ago, say Chelsea boss Pochettino after Liverpool draw Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister (left) in action during yesterday’s English Premier League match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. – REUTERSPIX Postecoglou