The Sun Daily-120523

paediatric nurse for 15 years. “I just love children, and being surrounded by them always makes me happy, especially when I see joy and laughter on their faces when they’ve recovered from their illnesses.” However, Rabiah said being a paediatric nurse comes with its challenges too. “Although the paediatric ward is meant only for child patients, we often have to comfort their anxious parents, who would be worried sick. Despite having their prior consent, we would still explain the details to parents before administering any medicine to their children. “We meet all kinds of parents in the ward. While some are easy to manage, others can get more panicky than their children. In some situations, both parents and children can be emotionally disturbed. On such occasions, paediatric nurses have to look after both parents and children, and spend time reassuring them.” Rabiah said among the most difficult moments were when both parents and children were ill at the same time, such as in food poisoning cases, or when a patient is diagnosed with an incurable disease. “At times, I feel helpless because I can’t do much to ease their pain. Maybe it’s because I love children that I can empathise with them,” she said. PETALING JAYA: International Nurses Day, which falls today, is celebrated across the globe in memory of the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, who pioneered nursing, and to commemorate the contributions of the profession to society. theSun spoke to three nurses about what nursing means to them. Lee Pui Fung, 35, has been an emergency department senior staff nurse for six years and a frontline volunteer during the Covid-19 pandemic. “Being on the frontline demanded much more than what was shown by the media. We have to constantly be there for our patients as they are isolated from their families. Also, being a frontliner can be extremely difficult, especially when wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). “During the pandemic, I was stationed in a tent outside my hospital. The weather was so hot and humid. It was stuffy and difficult to breathe while wearing the PPE. “Not many realise that frontliners also have to control nature’s call. Going to the washroom meant having to wear new PPE, and they were in short supply at one time, so most of us, doctors included, had to control our water intake so we did not have to go until our shift was over. That was tough. “It was much worse for my Muslim colleagues during the fasting month in 2021. Imagine wearing PPE and being hot, stuffy and hungry too, while having to work long hours looking after patients. Believe me, those were dark days for nurses,” she told theSun. Despite the difficult times, Lee said the experience as a frontliner will be with her for the rest of her life, particularly the camaraderie she had with colleagues and the pain they collectively went through. “It was hard when a patient died. We all felt the loss. “But when patients survived, the sense of accomplishment was real,” she said. Rabiah Thaufick, 40, has been a oThree modern-day Nightingales share their experiences on poignant moments and what keeps them going █ BY THARANI NAIR [email protected] TELLING IT AS IT IS ON FRIDAY MAY 12, 2023 No. 8266 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my DESPERATE FOR RAIN ... A farmer looking at his strained padi seedlings in a parched plot at Kampung Paya Keladi in Kepala Batas, Penang yesterday due to the current hot spell. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN Turn to — page 4 Salute to nurses INSIDE M’sia to step up monitoring of terrorist activities 2 page 519 infant dumping cases recorded since 2009 3 page

2 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS M’sia to step up monitoring of terrorist activities PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia does not want to be complacent and will continue to step up the monitoring of terrorist activities although the country’s position in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) is improving, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. After chairing a meeting of a High Level Committee on Terrorism Control here yesterday, he told a media conference that Malaysia was ranked 75th in the GTI last year compared with 68th in 2021, and this achievement gives a good indication of the country. “However, prevention and enforcement measures at all levels will be enhanced. This shows that we should not be complacent. oPreventive measures being enhanced to avoid complacency despite nation’s higher ranking in Global Terrorism Index, says DPM Enforcement will be carried out by police, the Malaysian Armed Forces and the National Security Council.” The GTI is an automatic ranking of countries based on terrorist activities. A higher ranking indicates that a country is improving. Ahmad Zahid said important preventive measures must be taken to avoid the occurrence of violence due to differences in political beliefs, religious fanaticism and racism. “Psychological and domestic problems are also among the things that cause violence.” He added that according to a study, religious violence is not perpetrated by people who understand religion but by individuals who have no religious background but want a shortcut to heaven. Ahmad Zahid said the Islamic Development Department has been asked to draw up a terrorism prevention education curriculum for pre-school, primary and secondary school as well as higher education levels, Bernama reported. He said police, the National Security Council and the Communications and Multimedia Commission have been instructed to carry out continuous monitoring of terrorist activities on all social media platforms. He added that several committees were formed to identify strategies to deal with terrorism in this country, including the National Terrorism Control Committee. Development funds to be distributed fairly to all states PUTRAJAYA: The more than RM300 million allocated to the Local Government Development Ministry this year for the Sentuhan Kasih Sayang programme will be distributed fairly to all states for development and upgrading of facilities for the people, said its minister Nga Kor Ming. He said he started the tour for the programme three months ago and had been to Penang, Kelantan, Kedah, Perak and Johor, with Negeri Sembilan being the next state. Citing Kedah, which is under the Opposition, Nga said the Langkawi municipal council was allocated RM2 million to upgrade two main markets, build new toilets and upgrade a food court. He said Johor Bahru would receive an allocation of more than RM10 million for matters such as road surfacing, upgrading of food courts, cleaning of public toilets and construction of recreational parks. He added that an announcement on the matter would be made on Monday. Nga was speaking at a Jalinan Muhibah programme, held in conjunction with the Aidilfitri celebration here yesterday. In another development, Nga said the Fire and Rescue Department had identified 406 hotspots across the country. – Bernama Nga trying his hand at making ‘roti canai’ at the event in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Minister commends performance of SEA Games athletes KUALA LUMPUR: Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh is satisfied with the performance of the young athletes at the SEA Games in Cambodia who managed to bag gold medals for the country although it was the first time they were competing in the biennial Games. Yeoh said although there are some sports whose medal targets did not meet the predictions, she was still satisfied when sports such as silat, wushu, golf and karate did unexpectedly well, winning gold medals for the country beyond the target. “So far, we have seen (our athletes in) silat, karate, wushu, golf and athletics as well as many other sports perform outstandingly. We share the joy with the young athletes because most of them are making their debut (at the SEA Games). “This is the nature of sports, it is competitive. Sometimes we win and (sometimes we) lose. However, if we lose, we will determine what the factors of defeat are, we deal with them and help reduce the risk of defeat in the future,” she said at the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Game Changers Regional Workshop yesterday. Yeoh said her ministry would scrutinise the outstanding performance of athletes at the SEA Games for the allocation of funds to ensure that the development of sports and its excellence could continue. “We will study the available data after everything is finished to find out more about the athletes who excel in a sport. Is it due to coaches or overseas training?” She said in the case of those who had won, more funds would be put in for the development of the respective sports. So far, the national contingent is in the seventh position in medal standings after collecting 21 gold, 22 silver and 42 bronze medals. – Bernama Public health spending to be discussed in Parliament KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed increase for public health spending will be discussed during the tabling of a White Paper on Health in Parliament next month, said Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa. She said the ministry would continue discussions with the Finance Ministry for allocations to be increased up to 5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). “Now, it is 2.9% (of the GDP), and if we compare our country with other middleincome countries, our equivalent countries, they are already at a rate of up to 5% (of their GDP),” she told a media conference here yesterday. Zaliha earlier opened the CRM (Clinical Research Malaysia) Trial Connect 2023 programme, which was held in conjunction with Clinical Research Day 2023. She said Malaysia is ready to carry out its first-in-human clinical research at two certified locations, namely Sarawak General Hospital and Ampang Hospital. “We have the facilities and we also have the discipline when we carry out the research, and this actually attracts the interest of many companies to do first-in-human (clinical trial) in Malaysia.” Also present at the event were Health Director-General Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian and CRM chief executive officer Dr Akhmal Yusof. On the CRM Trial Connect 2023 programme, she said it was to showcase the country’s achievements and capabilities in sponsored research. “In the last decade, sponsored research has brought in more than RM1 billion of clinical research contract value, created 2,700 skilled jobs in clinical research and delivered over 2,000 sponsored research.” – Bernama Mission to prevent EU palm oil ban PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia will meet leaders of the European Union (EU) member states in Brussels, Belgium at the end of this month to ensure that palm oil products exported to the EU are not banned with the implementation of the European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR). Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also the plantation and commodities minister, said the engagement mission between Malaysia and EU leaders demonstrates the government’s commitment to resolving any issue arising from palm oil. “We hope to receive a good explanation from them and obtain their commitment so that Malaysia will not be rated (seen) as a high-risk country. This should not happen, especially to smallholders,” he said during his Aidilfitri Open House in Sri Satria yesterday. Fadillah was commenting on the recent statement from the EU ambassador to Malaysia Michalis Rokas, who said palm oil produced by smallholders under the Federal Land Development Board would not be affected by the implementation of the EUDR. He said industry players would also participate in the important mission to find a solution to the palm oil issue. – Bernama Madani sales net RM1.9 million KUALA LUMPUR: The Madani Programme for Cooperatives and Entrepreneurs sales, which began at the end of March to help ease the burden of the people, managed to achieve a total sales value of RM1.9 million as of April. Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the sales at the Putrajaya Ramadan Festival was the highest recorded, with a sales value of more than RM1.4 million, and the participation of 20 cooperatives and entrepreneurs. “Most recently, we have just finished the sales programme at Pesta Kaamatan in Tamparuli, Sabah on May 6 and 7, which received a very encouraging response from residents,” he said at the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Celebration of the ministry and its agencies yesterday. He added that the implementation of the programme under the ministry’s strategic plan themed “Progressive, Transformative and Responsive”, has reached 30% as of April 30. Ewon said a total of 196,621 entrepreneurs, individuals from cooperatives, social enterprises and startups as well as informal entrepreneurs, youth and graduates have received benefits from the 185 programmes implemented. He said the ministry had also launched a Mari Beli Lokal campaign, which has 467 active traders and a sales value of RM2.58 million. – Bernama

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 PETALING JAYA: A total of 519 babies were abandoned in dumpsites, bushes and public toilets between 2009 and April this year. In the most recent cases, 19 babies were abandoned in 2021, 46 in 2022 and 14 so far this year. OrphanCare Foundation, which started operations in 2008, runs three baby hatches, which are places where people can take newborns and leave them anonymously in a safe receptacle to be cared for. Its advocacy and communications manager Riza Alwi told theSun: “We operate our baby hatches in Petaling Jaya, Johor Bahru and Sungai Petani as it’s better this way than to have unwanted babies dumped in unsafe places. “OrphanCare also collaborates with the Pakar An-Nur Hospital in Bangi and KPJ hospitals, which also runs three baby hatches in the country. “Our hatches follow a German system and are air-conditioned, safe and have 24-hour CCTV monitoring inside the unit, which also automatically notifies a caretaker when a baby is left there. The camera does not identify the (person dropping off the infant).” Riza said the foundation also helps women with unplanned pregnancies. “We don’t judge or blame them. The sad part is that some of the women were raped and not even aware they were pregnant.” She said some of the women ignore the signs of pregnancy and once they were seven to eight months along, panic strikes and only then would they go to a clinic and have their pregnancy confirmed by a doctor. “Placing a baby at a baby hatch is not a crime. But dumping one in unsafe places can be classified as murder or attempted murder and subject to investigations under Section 302 of the Penal Code. “Newborns are defined as those less than three weeks old. They are usually left at a baby hatch covered with cloth and placed in a box or bag. Some of the babies even have their umbilical cords still attached,” she said. Riza added that some babies were not even fed after they were born but were directly dropped off at the hatch, after the mothers gave birth alone at home, a friend’s place or even in public toilets. “We do not want these women to be classified as killers, so we do everything to keep them and their babies safe.” She also said ignorance and lack of awareness about sex education were among the main causes of baby dumping, adding that it usually involved teenagers impregnated by a relative. “There was one case in which a girl came to us after giving birth alone at 5.30am. She had been raped by her supervisor and tried to flush the baby down a toilet. But it got stuck, so she brought it to us. “The baby has since been adopted. But it was a traumatic journey for both the mother and baby. This is where we play our part to keep both mother and child safe. “OrphanCare is not an adoption agency but a place to save babies regardless of how a woman got pregnant. Ensuring the baby’s and mother’s safety is essential, although the subject is still taboo in Malaysia,” she said. Meanwhile, Federation of Reproductive Health Association chairman Dr Kamal Kenny said the biggest challenge in addressing baby dumping issues is that institutions have largely focused on the elements of remedial mechanisms and failed to look beyond the importance of preventive measures. “The issue should be discussed at length and not be swept under the carpet due to its sensitivity. When there is greater awareness of the subject matter, the likelihood of baby dumping would be lowered,” he said. Process for scholarship, study loans simplified KUANTAN: The requirement to obtain the signature of an elected representative on the state government’s scholarship and education loan application form through Yayasan Pahang has been abolished starting this year, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said at the state assembly sitting in Wisma Sri Pahang yesterday. He added that the new measure was to make it easier for students applying for the scholarship or loan, as well as freeing up elected representatives who no longer need to sign the form. “Applicants have been allowed to apply online. So, I hope the elected representatives can tell students in their respective areas to do so.” He was replying to a question from Rosli Abdul Jabar (PN-Tanjung Lumpur), who asked for an explanation on why opposition members of the state assembly were not “qualified” to sign scholarship forms. Wan Rosdy’s reply was commended by Speaker Datuk Seri Mohd Sharkar Shamsudin, who said he too “took a long time to sign education-related forms due to the number of forms piling up” when he was Lanchang assemblyman. Wan Rosdy said between the establishment of Yayasan Pahang in 1983 and last year, a total of RM1.4 billion had been channelled for educational purposes benefiting more than 1.7 million recipients. – Bernama 519 infant dumping cases recorded since 2009 oRape victim attempting to flush newborn down toilet among close calls encountered by baby hatch operator Solar streetlights for Perak rural areas IPOH: Perak is planning to instal 1,000 units of smart solar streetlights at interior locations and Orang Asli villages, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. He added that the installation, costing more than RM7,000 per unit depending on specifications, would be done in stages over 12 months. “Many Orang Asli villagers have complained that there is a lack of adequate lighting and requested the state government to instal streetlights. “There used to be a programme in which the electricity bill was financed by the Rural Development Ministry (now Rural and Regional Development Ministry) but there were too many villages, which caused the government not to be able to pay for it. “With this technology, there will be no issue with electricity bills because it uses solar energy and allows us to save cost,” he said after officiating at the Perak Techno Trade Centre @ Meru Raya building preservation event on Wednesday. Saarani said the state government would conduct a detailed study to identify the locations that require solar lighting as there were many applications from all over the state, including from Felda settlements. On a separate matter, he said more administrative areas in the state, including Manjung and Tanjung Malim, have the potential to achieve city status. “Apart from Manjung, which has already expressed its readiness, Tanjung Malim is also expected to see an increase in population when many industrial workers move to the area. Therefore, many facilities will be built, such as schools, markets and hospitals, which will encourage the development of a new city.” He added that several criteria need to be fulfilled and approved by the Local Government Development Ministry, such as the number of residents, to gain recognition as a city. Saarani also said the state government plans to provide additional housing to accommodate the increase in population, adding that there needs to be an entity that controls the development towards achieving city status. – Bernama Public cautioned over fake housing forms ALOR SETAR: The Kedah Regional Development Authority (Keda) has denied issuing application forms for the Pusat Pertumbuhan Desa (PPD) housing project in Binjal, Kubang Pasu. Its general manager Datuk Kamarudin Abd Akib said Keda had received information from the public of application forms being sold by irresponsible parties for between RM30 and RM50. “Keda has yet to make any offer or issue any application forms for the housing project. So, if there are people selling such forms, ignore them as they are scammers. “We will issue official forms attached with copy-proof security codes and serial numbers soon. The forms are free of charge and can only be collected at the Keda office,” he said at the Keda Aidilfitri open house yesterday. He added that Keda learnt the fake forms were being sold after several individuals inquired about the status of their applications. – Bernama █ BYVEISHNAWI NEHRU [email protected] Riza demonstrating the ease of use of a baby hatch. – PIC COURTESY O F O R P H A N C A R E FOUNDATION Man wins RM13 million jackpot with new car number plates KUALA LUMPUR: A 77-year-old retired carpenter won the RM13.6 million Toto 4D Jackpot 1 on May 3 by betting on the registration numbers of new cars bought by his two sons. When collecting his winnings, the winner from Kuala Lumpur told STM Lottery Sdn Bhd that he never missed playing Toto games, although his friends often laughed at him for “wasting his money”. “My friends always said I was playing a game that I won’t win. But to me, I have never missed a single draw because I feel that as long as I play, I stand a chance to win. “True enough, I have finally won the jackpot by spending only RM2 per draw,” he said, adding that he was now having the last laugh. He said he would always bet on his children’s car registration numbers but he did not win anything until his two sons each bought a new car recently. “I won because of their new cars, with the registration numbers 2425 and 2085. This pair of numbers has brought me luck.” His RM2 ticket won him RM13,581,288.80, and he said he plans to share the winnings with his two sons.

4 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia advances towards an ageing society, it further stretches the healthcare system at a huge cost to the government. By 2056, Malaysia will be a “super-aged society”, with over 20% of its population over 65, exhibiting a steep decline of working age people. Such scenarios can translate to an increasingly burdened healthcare system, at a huge cost to the government, as the Health Ministry expects expenditure to reach US$80 billion (RM351.6 billion) by 2040. In 2022, a 13-member Health White Paper Advisory Council was set up in Malaysia, to tackle the burdened public healthcare and future-proof our healthcare system. While we explore ways to reform the system, are we ready to self-care? The concept of self-care is not new. By empowering the consumer, this could reduce the time spent by healthcare practitioners, enabling them to attend to more severe health conditions. The World Health Organisation defines self-care as “individuals, families, and communities promoting and maintaining their own health, preventing disease, and coping with illness and disability, with or without the Self-care, is it the new way forward for healthcare in Malaysia? support of a health worker”. Health literacy is vital to advance the concept of self-care, where people have access to the best information and the right products. The Pharmaceutical Association of Malaysia Self-Care White Paper published in 2020 stated that knowledge and health literacy are the key pillars of self-care. As adult health literacy rates rise, this contributes to growing health consciousness among Malaysians, driving demand for preventive and wellness products. A hygiene, health, and nutrition company Reckitt (Health) Malaysia Sdn Bhd, which is a firm believer in the concept of self-care, and improving health literacy, has partnered with the European Union-Asian Business Council to conduct a survey on self-care. Reckitt Regulatory Affairs & Policy director Ali M. Abdullah said the survey showed that across Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, the Covid-19 pandemic had shown the ability of self-care utilisation through increased consumer awareness, to aid health systems. “The survey revealed Malaysians accepted that, and while the government supported the facilitation of self-care and self-remedy, more could be done, such as access to medication for minor ailments and increasing the availability of non-prescription over-thecounter medicines,” he said. As conversations turn into strategies to ease the pressures on Malaysia’s healthcare system, will self-care be part of the discussion? Getting marginalised youths back on their feet KUALA LUMPUR: MySkills Foundation, which aims to create a RM20 million endowment fund to be financially independent, is organising a fundraising dinner today to kick off the project. MySkills Foundation CEO Devasharma Gangadaran said the event, which will be held at HGH Convention Centre, Sentul at 6.30pm, will help to support 200 poor, marginalised and at-risk youths who come from dysfunctional families. “We need RM3 million annually to cover our operations, and this fundraising is our main attempt to raise sufficient money. Besides this, we also receive tax-deductable grants from corporations, individual donations and a 10% contribution from the government.” Devasharma said through the foundation, MySkills has produced 2,500 oFoundation aims to raise RM20m to help troubled teens pursue brighter future with vocational, life skill training █ BY THARANI NAIR [email protected] skilled graduates and counselled over 15,000 students to take up skill training. “We target youths from 13 to 19 years of age, who had been expelled or had dropped out of school, those from dysfunctional families or living in poverty, and children from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds. “By dysfunctional families, we mean those who are constantly in conflict, often neglect their children or abuse them at times or regularly, which leads to other family members accommodating such actions. This becomes a vicious cycle. Life in a dysfunctional family is emotionally tumultuous and affects the children’s healthy development. “We accept students from all kinds of background, including those who are stateless,” he told theSun. Devasharma said MySkills provides youths with vocational skills, life skills, meals, and accommodation and looks after their welfare. “We classify the training into two categories – children under the age of 15 and children over 15. Those in the under-15 category will learn basic literacy and numeracy skills, character transformation and vocational training exposure, while the above-15 category will be taught the Malaysian Skills Certificate syllabus, literacy and numeracy skills, character transformation and vocational training. “The cost of training for each individual is RM12,000 per annum. However, the cost is fully covered for youths from the B40 and B20 group. “Since character building is our main priority, keeping young children away from dysfunctionalities or negative influences is a critical move, within which MySkills campus becomes an ‘enabling environment’. So, students will only go back twice a year for holidays.” Devasharma said it is a mistake to assume that school dropouts only come from a particular race or ethnic group as it cuts across the board regardless of this. “Young adults that attend MySkills need to be trained in life skills such as decision-making, creative thinking, empathy and coping with stress and emotion. Teenagers are at a vulnerable stage where they are unaware of a lot of things. At such a stage, it is easy for them to be misled if they are not taught these things. “Only after they’ve mastered life skills will we proceed in teaching them vocational skills. The vocational skills serve to prepare them for adulthood and cultivate and enhance their expertise in the skill that they choose to learn,” he said. The children have already experienced a traumatic start in their lives. Hence, MySkills prioritises character transformation, he added. “Our vocational programmes include electrical wiring, caregiving, culinary arts, and welding, among others. “Our character transformation programmes include sports, social, emotional and life management skills, spirituality and social enterprise. “We aim to not let the children’s experience drag them down. We want to provide a better path for them to pursue a brighter future.” Strata title relief for apartment owners IPOH: Owners of Pangsapuri Taman Tap Teluk Intan can now breathe a sigh of relief after they finally received their individual strata titles yesterday. Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said the apartment, built and occupied since 1995, is the second scheme funded by the Strata Ownership Special Fund to register its strata title. “A sum of RM207,833.20 has been approved for the scheme and so far, the government has allocated RM1.5 million through the fund to resolve the ownership issue of old stratified buildings known as ‘special buildings’. “This process will be followed by the transfer of ownership from the liquidating company to the 41 legal owners. This will make it easier for them to sell the property and engage in other transactions permitted under the National Land Code and the Strata Title Act 1985,” he said in a statement after a ceremony to hand over a mock title at Dewan Rumah Rehat, Teluk Intan. – Bernama LRT service at six stations resumes KUALA LUMPUR: Operations at six Light Rail Transit (LRT) stations on the Ampang-Sri Petaling line, involving the Bandaraya, Sultan Ismail, PWTC, Titiwangsa, Sentul and Sentul Timur stations, were reactivated at 6am today. Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd (Rapid Rail) said the temporary repair work (first phase) of the structural and runway damage near the Bandaraya LRT station had been completed. “The trains that need to undergo maintenance have been brought to the LRT depot in Ampang, and replacement trains will be used for this service. “With the reopening (of the stations), the LRT 11, 13 and 14 bus service will be terminated,” Rapid Rail said. Operations at the six LRT stations have been suspended since April 2, following the structural and runway damage near the Bandaraya LRT station, which resulted in trains not being able to return to the Ampang LRT depot to undergo maintenance works since Jan 27. – Bernama Ups and downs of being a nurse Luqman Hakim Noor Azmi, 25, started his nursing career in the critical care unit (CCU) but he does not have any regrets despite having to deal with sad situations almost daily. “There are cases when a patient under my care passed away. During such times, my priority is to ease the pain of the deceased’s family, and I care about their feelings more than my own. “Such times represent the bad days, even though I have no familial relationship with the patient. “Accumulation of grief is harmful to us as well as it can lead to depression.” Despite that, Luqman said he also had happy days at the CCU. “In an incident during the Covid-19 pandemic, an elderly patient was admitted to our ward. She was already depressed because of the Covid-19 situation in the country and the movement control order. The fact that she was unwell, though not from Covid-19, made the situation worse for her. “Whenever I was in charge of her, I felt the need to cheer her up at least a little. So, while chatting with her, I found out that she liked coffee. So each morning, even when she was not under my charge, I would make her a cup of coffee to make her day. “It’s just a simple gesture, but little things like this help to cheer up our patients. However, I was surprised that she remembered it when she came for a health check after being discharged. “She stopped by my department and waited for me, just to say ‘thank you’. “The nursing profession is not an easy one. We all have our good and bad days. We are just human after all, and we hope the public will also be a little more patient with us.” From front page Tube well plan to overcome water woes KOTA BHARU: The Kelantan government plans to build tube wells in areas in the state that are experiencing critical supply of clean water due to the current hot spell. Menteri Besar Datuk Ahmad Yakob said for the purpose, the state government will seek the cooperation of several NGOs, including the Muslim Care Malaysia Society. “We have discussed with Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd and will work with Muslim Care Malaysia because it has experience building tube wells in Sudan, Afghanistan and other countries. “We will continue to monitor the water supply in the state,” he said after officiating at the Kelantan Bio Carnival 2023 at the Darulnaim Islamic Complex in Lundang here yesterday. Ahmad advised the people of Kelantan to be vigilant and limit their outdoor activities. They are also urged to not carry out open burning activities during the dry season. – Bernama

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 6,000 certified technologists needed to realise Sarawak vision KUCHING: Sarawak needs about 6,000 certified technologists to realise its vision to be at the forefront of Industrial Revolution 5.0, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg. Speaking at the Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT) Borneo Symposium 2023 yesterday, he said Sarawak is targeting to have 10,000 technologists by 2025 but at present, it could only produce about 30% of that number. “Currently, we have a total of 3,291 certified technologists comprising 1,961 graduate technologists, 461 qualified technicians, 722 professional technologists and 147 certified technicians. “Hopefully, we can achieve the (target before) 2025, which is quite tough but at least by 2030, we must have sufficient technologists,” he said. Abang Johari added that such a symposium would enhance the capacity of technologists and technicians by promoting and developing technological talents. He also said the state’s target could be achieved through collaborative efforts with various institutions and companies such as the Association of Professional Technicians and Technologists, MBOT as well as Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. Meanwhile, MBOT president Datuk Siti Hamisah Tapsir said currently, the board has accredited a total of 52 programmes in higher education institutions in Sarawak and 46 in Sabah. “Since its establishment in 2016, MBOT has registered more than 70,000 technologists and technicians, including 18,765 professional technologists and 2,260 certified technicians, with over 5,000 of these professional members hailing from Sarawak and Sabah, that is about 7.5% of our total members,” she said. She added that MBOT Borneo Symposium is also an initiative to develop highly skilled, adaptable and professional industrial talents in response to the rapid development in the Borneo states. With the theme “Preparing A Sustainable Workforce”, the one-day programme aims to promote and recognise the contributions of technologists and technicians, particularly those in Sarawak and Sabah. – Bernama 1MDB trial vacated as Najib still warded for diarrhoea KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak’s 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) trial at the High Court yesterday was vacated as the former premier was still warded for diarrhoea. Appeals Court Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah, appearing as High Court judge, made the decision after Kuala Lumpur Hospital Clinical Medicine Specialist Dr Mohd Fadhli Zil Ikram Karim provided an update on Najib’s health condition during yesterday’s proceedings. When questioned by DPP Ahmad Akram Gharib, Mohd Fadhli said he had examined Najib at 7.20am. Najib was admitted to hospital on Tuesday. “When I examined Datuk Seri Najib, he complained that he was still having episodes of loose stool, and our examination showed it was indeed loose in nature. So, by this definition, he is still having diarrhoea. “We proceeded with vital monitoring and his blood pressure is stable. However, he is showing signs of having high risk of dehydration. “We have to keep him in the ward for intravenous saline infusion to rehydrate him and monitor his vital signs,” he said. Mohd Fadhli added that after consulting with his superior, they concluded that Najib was unfit to attend court. Najib has been given medical leave of one day. The trial is scheduled to continue on June 21, Bernama reported. Najib, 70, is facing four charges of using his position to obtain bribes of RM2.3 billion and 21 charges of money laundering involving the same amount. Tahfiz fire case: Teen’s appeal to be decided in July PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal has fixed July 14 to decide on an appeal by a teenager who was found guilty for the murder of 23 people in a fire at the Darul Quran Ittifaqiyah Tahfiz Centre in 2017. A three-member panel comprising justices Datuk Abu Bakar Jais, Datuk Che Mohd Ruzima Ghazali and Datuk See Mee Chun will also decide on the same day on the prosecution’s appeal against the acquittal of another teenager in the case, without his defence being ordered. Abu Bakar, who chaired the panel, said they were not prepared to deliver the decision yesterday as they needed to go through the oral and written submissions by the prosecution and the defence. oThree-member panel to also review acquittal of another youth freed without defence being ordered Strong maritime laws vital for sustainable growth, says judge KUALA LUMPUR: Given the rise of transnational commercial trade, Malaysia needs a robust framework of legal and regulatory instruments that govern maritime activities to ensure that the industry achieves sustainable growth, said Federal Court Judge Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan. She said for Malaysia to remain competitive, it requires a myriad of laws and amendments to current laws so that they are in line with international standards, which are deemed necessary to provide confidence, certainty and predictability to people of commerce both domestically and internationally. “It is not only in times of enterprise and profit, but also when things go wrong. To that extent, insolvency laws also need to meet international standards. “The importance of cross-border laws which are modern and in keeping with the more developed jurisdictions like Singapore, Japan, Korea and the Western countries cannot be underscored,” she said at the third Maritime Law and Business Conference yesterday. The two-day conference, themed “Refuelling the Future - Sustainability and Growth in the Post-Covid Era”, is organised by the International Malaysian Society of Maritime Law. Nallini added that Malaysia does not have a comprehensive body of legislation tailored to the country’s own unique circumstances. – Bernama Sg Nenggiri drying up due to hot spell GUA MUSANG: The Sungai Nenggiri, which is the lifeline for farming, fishing and transport for villagers here, is drying up due to the hot weather, with its water level receding and mud, sandbanks and rocks starting to emerge. Motorboat driver Muhamad Fakhry Sharif, 27, said the water level has been dropping since last week. He said the situation required them to be extra careful as the receding water level posed a risk to navigation. “We found that Sungai Nenggiri has receded by more than two metres since the beginning of this week. “We are aware of the safety risks in steering the boat at low tide, but we have to continue working to serve passengers who depend on river transport and also to catch fish. “We hope the hot weather will not last long so we can continue our activities as usual. Apart from rubber-tapping and agriculture, many villagers turn to fishing to supplement their daily needs,” he said. Boat pilot Shaari Mustapa, 55, said some boatmen have stopped working for the time being because they were concerned about the risks involved in navigating through shallow water. – Bernama SCORCHING HEAT ... Pupils shielding themselves from the sun while waiting to be picked up at Sekolah Rendah Wangsa Maju Seksyen 1 in Kuala Lumpur. – SYAZWAN KAMAL/ THESUN Earlier, the court heard submissions by DPP How May Ling and lawyer Haijan Omar over the prosecution’s appeal against the High Court’s decision in acquitting and discharging the second teenager, aged 22. The appeal by the first teenager against the High Court’s decision on Aug 17, 2020, which found him guilty and ordered him to be detained at the pleasure of the Yang-di-Pertuan Agong, was heard on March 9. According to the charge, both teenagers, who were 16 years old then, together with another unidentified individual, were accused of murdering and causing the death of the students staying at the tahfiz centre at Jalan Keramat Hujung, Kampung Datuk Keramat in Wangsa Maju, between 4.15am and 6.45am on Sept 14, 2017, Bernama reported. In yesterday’s court proceedings, How urged the court to make an order for the second teenager to enter his defence. She said it was impossible for one person to cause the fire as there were two gas tanks weighing 14kg each that were carried from the ground floor of the school to the second floor through the staircase. How added that one gas tank was placed horizontally at the door and another one vertically, and petrol was splashed on the door and set ablaze. She said circumstantial evidence showed there were four individuals seen at the back of the school, the first and second teenagers and two other male individuals who are brothers. The first teenager and another unidentified individual entered the school by climbing the fence at the back of the school. Based on CCTV recordings, the body shape of the second teenager, who was small and thin, allowed him to go through a small opening in the barb wire fence to enter into the school compound, compared with the two brothers, she added. Haijan, representing the two appellants, said there was no positive identification that the second teenager had entered the school, adding that it cannot be ruled out that the two brothers had entered the school. He said there was no evidence to show that the second teenager was involved in the crime, and hence, there was no need for him to enter his defence.

6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Pakistan deploys army to quell riots oImran remanded in custody for eight days, police detain seven PTI leaders ISLAMABAD: Troops were deployed in Pakistan’s capital yesterday after the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan triggered two days of violent protests by his supporters. Imran was remanded in custody for eight days on corruption charges on Wednesday, following months of political crisis that saw him wage a campaign of defiance against the military. Imran’s arrest has enraged supporters of his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, who have clashed with security forces in several cities and marched up to the headquarters of the army. The supporters accuse the military of having orchestrated Imran’s ouster in April last year. The military denies any involvement. “If they think that the arrest of Five arrested after blast near India’s Golden Temple No real progress on Myanmar peace plan, says Indonesia JAKARTA: Southeast Asian nations have made “no significant progress” on implementing a peace plan aimed at ending bloodshed in Myanmar, Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo said yesterday, on the final day of a summit. Escalating violence in junta-ruled Myanmar has dominated the three-day meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) on the Indonesian island of Flores. The regional bloc has spearheaded diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis, though it has yet to enact a five-point plan agreed upon with Myanmar two years ago. Since the military ousted Aung San Suu Kyi’s government. it has overseen a bloody crackdown on dissent, killing thousands of people and battling armed resistance to its rule. As Asean leaders began their final day of talks in the fishing town of Labuan Bajo, Jokowi admitted they had made “no significant progress” on implementing the peace plan. “We need the unity of Asean to chart our way forward,” he said. Divisions among Asean members at the summit appear to have hampered those efforts. An internal report on the foreign ministers’ discussions said some countries wanted to invite the junta back to Asean meetings because “the time for isolation has served its purpose”. “There was also an observation that Asean might be experiencing a ‘Myanmar fatigue’, which might distract Asean from larger goals of AseanCommunity-building,” said the document seen by AFP. “Patience, flexibility and creativity are therefore required since there will be no quick fix to the crisis.” Myanmar still belongs to Asean but has been barred from its summits due to the junta’s failure to implement the peace plan. The 10-member regional bloc has long been decried by critics as a toothless talking shop, but its charter principles of non-interference and consensus have hamstrung its ability to stop the violence in Myanmar. The latest draft of the end-of-summit statement seen by AFP has left the paragraph on Myanmar open, reflecting diplomatic difficulties over the issue. A review of the charter was “long overdue”, said Lina Alexandra of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Jakarta. “When you see your next-door neighbour’s house is burning, what will you do? Can you just stay silent, it’s not my problem?” – AFP B R I E F SCYCLONE HEADS FOR MYANMAR, BANGLADESH YANGON: Myanmar and Bangladesh deployed thousands of volunteers and ordered evacuations from low-lying areas yesterday as the Bay of Bengal’s first cyclone of the year approached. Cyclone Mocha is forecast to make landfall on Sunday along the Bangladesh-Myanmar border, according to India’s meteorological office, packing winds of up to 145kph. The office predicted a storm surge of between 1.5m and 2m for the low-lying coastal region, which on the Bangladeshi side is home to sprawling camps hosting hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees. Bangladesh also banned fishing boats from venturing into the deep sea. – AFP 7.6-MAGNITUDE QUAKE RATTLES TONGA NUKU’ALOFA: A 7.6-magnitude earthquake rattled the Pacific island nation of Tonga yesterday morning but there were no reports of injuries or damage. The quake struck at 1602 GMT (12am in Malaysia) about 100km off Tonga’s remote volcanic island of Niuatoputapu at a depth of 210km, the US Geological Survey said. There was no tsunami risk, it said. “We had calls early in the morning from people who felt it, but there have been no reports of damage,” said Tonga Meteorological Services chief meteorologist Gary Vite. The quake was also felt some 360km from the epicentre in the Samoan capital Apia. – AFP Black smoke billowing from a building set ablaze by PTI activists during a protest in Peshawar. – AFPPIC Imran Khan will demoralise us, then they are hugely mistaken,” said protester Niaz Ali on Wednesday in the city of Peshawar, where several monuments and government buildings were torched. “We stand with Imran Khan and will support him till death.” At least seven officials from PTI’s central leadership were arrested and detained, accused of orchestrating the protests, Islamabad police said yesterday. The government on Wednesday approved the deployment of the army in two provinces – including Punjab, the most populous – and in the capital to restore peace. NEW DELHI: Five people were arrested yesterday after a third blast in less than a week shook the area around the Sikh holy site of the Golden Temple in Amritsar, Indian police said. Two of the suspects had prepared the improvised explosive devices at a guest house in the city, state police director-general Gaurav Yadav told reporters, while the other three provided the materials. He gave no information about their suspected motives and said investigations were continuing. Pressure for a separate Sikh homeland known as Khalistan sparked deadly violence in India in the 1980s and 1990s. In March, a manhunt was launched in Punjab state to arrest a firebrand Sikh separatist that sparked protests and vandalism among the diaspora. It was unclear whether that was connected to the three explosions. No injuries were reported in the third blast, which happened around midnight, with police describing it as low-intensity. “The area is totally sealed and a forensic team is working on it,” police official Naunihal Singh said. The previous two blasts, at the weekend and on Monday, each wounded one person. Punjab’s Golden Temple, a gleaming edifice in a large artificial pond, is revered by Sikhs the world over. – AFP ‘Rocket debris’ lights up Japan night sky TOKYO: Fiery streaks of light across the night sky over southern Japan may have been caused by space debris from a rocket launched by China, Japanese officials said yesterday. Video of the apparent fireballs lit up social media on Wednesday night, with residents and users speculating on what might have caused the unusual display. The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan’s (NAOJ) Ishigaki branch in Okinawa said it observed the streaks of light at 8.33pm on Wednesday (7.33pm in Malaysia), an official said. “Given the information publicly available, we think the falling objects are not fireballs from meteorites, but debris from a rocket,” said a NAOJ official, who declined to be named. “The slow speed and the way the light moved – threads of lights moving in parallel – looked exactly like the atmospheric entry of debris from a rocket. “It is possible that (it was) debris from a rocket that was launched by China in November. “There is information that part of the rocket was expected to re-enter the atmosphere” at around this time, he said. The debris was likely to have fallen into the ocean and posed no danger, he added, citing predictions of the route it would have taken. “It was beautiful, it looked like a weeping cherry blossom tree,” one Twitter user wrote of the display. – AFP Islamabad police said troops had already entered the capital’s sensitive “red zone” where government buildings are housed. At least six people have died in protest-related incidents, police and hospitals reported. Hundreds of police officers have been injured and more than 2,000 people have been arrested across the country, mostly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, police reported. The Interior Ministry has ordered mobile internet services cut and restricted access to social media sites Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, Pakistan’s communications agency said. Authorities have also ordered schools closed nationwide, with year-end exams cancelled. Imran appeared in a specially convened graft court on Wednesday, which remanded him for eight days following a request by Pakistan’s top anti-corruption agency, one of his lawyers Ali Bukhari said. – AFP

7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 Google goes global with AI rival to ChatGPT WASHINGTON: Google on Wednesday said it is opening Bard, a rival to Microsoft-backed ChatGPT, to 180 countries as it expands use of artificial intelligence across its platform. Executives at an annual Google developers conference in Silicon Valley said that generative AI will also be used to supercharge the tech giant’s leading search engine. “We have been applying AI for a while, with generative AI we are taking the next step,” Google CEO Sundar Pichai told thousands of developers gathered for the event. “We are reimagining all our core products, including search.” Google is racing to catch up with rival oTech giant’s search engine to be ‘supercharged’ by Bard conversational bot ‘Liar’ US lawmaker charged with fraud WASHINGTON: A scandal-plagued Republican congressman whose extensive lies have made political headlines since his election last year was arrested and charged by federal prosecutors on Wednesday. Representative George Santos pleaded not guilty to seven counts of wire fraud, three of money laundering, one of theft of public funds, and two of making materially false statements to the House of Representatives. He was arrested on Wednesday morning and entered the plea in the 13-count indictment during a court appearance in Central Islip on New York’s Long Island in the afternoon. Santos was released on a US$500,000 (RM2.2 million) bond and ordered to next appear in court on June 30. “I will get to clear my name,” he told reporters outside of court, branding the government’s case “inaccurate”. Santos has already admitted fabricating much of his biography, including his real name, his religion – he falsely claimed to be Jewish, his schooling and his employment history when he ran last year for a House seat representing parts of Long Island, New York. According to the indictment, Santos went much further by defrauding donors during his successful election, transferring the money into his own account and using it to pay off personal debts and buy designer clothing. The 34-year-old is also accused of collecting unemployment benefits that he was not entitled to during the coronavirus pandemic, before his election to Congress. Prosecutors said he pocketed US$24,000 in benefits while earning US$120,000 a year at a Florida-based investment firm. Santos has separately been accused of sexual harassment of a man to whom his office allegedly offered a job and then rescinded when the man turned down his advances. In an interview with TV host Piers Morgan earlier this year, Santos admitted to some lies on his resume. “I have been a terrible liar” on certain issues, he said. “This wasn’t about tricking the people, this was about getting accepted by the party.” – AFP B R I E F S‘UKRAINE NEEDS MORE TIME BEFORE COUNTER-OFFENSIVE’ KYIV: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said his military needs more time to prepare for a highly anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces, according to an interview published by the BBC yesterday. “With (what we have) we can go forward and be successful. But we’d lose a lot of people. I think that’s unacceptable. So we need to wait. We still need a bit more time,” he said. Ukrainian forces have been training a new contingent of troops and stockpiling Western-supplied munitions and hardware that analysts said will be key to reclaiming territory captured by Russia. – AFP NICARAGUAN PARLIAMENT DISSOLVES LOCAL RED CROSS MANAGUA: Nicaragua’s Parliament on Wednesday dissolved the local branch of the Red Cross, accusing it of taking sides in 2018 anti-government protests. The resolution was unanimously passed by a National Assembly loyal to President Daniel Ortega’s ruling party. The resolution repealed a 1958 decree which legally created the Nicaraguan Red Cross and authorised the creation of a new “decentralised, autonomous entity” attached to the Ministry of Health in its place. The resolution authorised all assets of the Nicaraguan Red Cross to be seized and handed over to be administered by the replacement body. – AFP Shooting at German auto plant leaves one dead BERLIN: One person was killed and another injured in a shooting at a Mercedes-Benz plant in southwestern Germany yesterday, authorities said, adding that one suspect had been detained. “This morning, shots were fired on the factory premises in Sindelfingen,” a spokesman for the Stuttgart prosecutor said. “Two persons were injured, one of whom has since died.” Investigators are working on the assumption that this was the act of a single perpetrator and that no individuals outside the factory were involved, according to the prosecutor’s office. Police and emergency responders remained at the scene. Police confirmed on Twitter that one person had died and another was severely injured. They were not immediately available for further comment. Mercedes-Benz produces its flagship S-Class luxury sedan at the location in Sindelfingen, located 17km southwest of Stuttgart. Some 35,000 people are employed at the site, according to the company. Mercedes confirmed an incident had taken place at the plant and that it was in touch with the authorities, without elaborating. “We are in contact with the authorities and are trying to clarify the facts. “The safety of the employees comes first,” it said. – Reuters Microsoft, which has rushed to integrate ChatGPT-like powers in a wide array of its products, including the Bing search engine. Microsoft’s dash into AI came despite fears about the technology’s potential threat to society, including its impact on the spread of disinformation and whether it could make whole categories of jobs obsolete. Cathy Edwards of Google Search said the new experience would be akin to a search that is “supercharged” by a conversational bot. Other Google executives laid out how generative AI is being woven into Gmail, photo editing, online work tools and more. The company’s AI efforts would be carried out in a “bold and responsible” way, senior product director Jack Krawczyk said during a briefing. Google’s expansion meant it removed a waitlist for Bard, letting users around the world engage with it in English after months of testing it out in the US and Britain. Bard will be modified to support 40 languages in coming months, according to Krawczyk. Google also announced browser “extensions” that will imbue apps and services such as Gmail and Maps with AI features. Bard technology will enable features such as filling in text to help draft e-mails and suggesting ideas for artwork by scrutinising a picture of available supplies. Google’s announcements came a week after Microsoft expanded public access to its generative artificial intelligence programmes, which are powered by models made by OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. “This could be a defining moment in the AI battle with Google and Microsoft going head-to-head for market share,” Wedbush analyst Dan Ives said in a note to investors. Microsoft’s early investment in OpenAI gave it a head start “in this Game of Thrones Battle for Big Tech with Google now playing major catchup mode”. – AFP Combative Trump appears on CNN town hall WASHINGTON: A combative Donald Trump made a rare live appearance on longtime adversary CNN on Wednesday, repeating his false claims about the 2020 election, hurling insults and mocking a former magazine columnist he was found liable of sexually abusing and defaming. Trump, during a one-hour “town hall” on the cable television network that he regularly denounced as “fake news” while in the White House, took questions on a broad range of subjects including the war in Ukraine, the debt limit, immigration and his multiple legal challenges. “Most people understand that what happened was a rigged election,” Trump said of his 2020 presidential election defeat by Democrat Joe Biden. If reelected, the Republican said he would pardon a “large portion” of the hundreds of supporters who have been jailed for their roles in the Jan 6, 2021 storming of the US Capitol. “They were there with love in their heart,” the 76-year-old said of the rioters who attempted to block the congressional certification of Biden’s win. Trump, the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, refused to unreservedly commit to accepting the results of the next White House vote when pressed by CNN anchor Kaitlin Collins, the mediator for the event. “If I think it’s an honest election, absolutely I would.” The former president also waded into the tense negotiations between the White House and Congress over raising the US debt limit, urging Republican legislators not to do so if Democrats do not agree to spending cuts. “I say that the Republicans out there congressmen, senators, if they don’t give you massive cuts, you’re gonna have to do a default,” Trump said, before quickly adding that he sees such a scenario as unlikely. The US government has never intentionally defaulted on its debt, and some economists warn that the effects could be calamitous. On Ukraine, Trump said Russian leader Migrants trying to get to the US from Mexico through the Rio Grande, which is lined with barbed wire. Biden’s administration is set to lift Title 42, the strict anti-Covid protocol implemented by Trump to deny entry to migrants. – AFPPIC Vladimir Putin made a “tremendous mistake” by invading but he declined to say who he wanted to win the war or whether he would continue to provide military aid to Ukraine. “I don’t think in terms of winning and losing. I think in terms of getting it settled. “They’re dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying and I’ll have that done in 24 hours.” Trump slammed Biden over his handling of immigration, saying that when a Covid-era policy lapses early today, there will be a “day of infamy” along the US border with Mexico. “You’re going to have millions of people pouring into our country,” he said, while suggesting that he would reinstitute a policy of separating families at the border. “When you have that policy, people don’t come. “I know it sounds harsh.” Biden, who announced last month that he will seek re-election, responded to Trump’s appearance with a fund-raising appeal. “It’s simple, folks,” Biden tweeted. “Do you want four more years of that?” – AFP

8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 SPEAK UP A POSSIBLE leap from 13% to 20% in employer contributions to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) will represent a significant increase of almost 54%. The extra amount will help to address the issue of low retirement savings among Malaysian workers. According to a survey conducted by the EPF in 2019, almost two-thirds of EPF members aged 54 and below had less than RM50,000 in their retirement savings. This is far below the minimum amount required for a comfortable retirement, which is estimated at around RM240,000. With the increase in employer contributions, concerns over inadequate retirement savings can be addressed, and greater financial security for employees can be ensured. This can also have broader social benefits, such as reducing the burden on government-funded retirement schemes and improving the overall well-being of the population. However, the increase may pose challenges for employers by raising their labour costs, which can potentially impact their profitability. In addition, some employers may need to adjust their salary structures to accommodate the higher contribution rate. This can lead to dissatisfaction among employees, who may see a reduction in their take-home pay. The increase in the contribution rate may also discourage employers from hiring new workers. They may be hesitant to hire additional staff due to the higher labour costs. This can lead to a slowdown in job creation and economic growth in Malaysia. businesses. The government can also provide incentives or tax breaks for employers who comply with the increased contribution rates, to help ease the burden of the additional cost. Another approach would be for the government to engage with employers and business associations to better understand their concerns and needs. This can involve holding consultations and dialogues with representatives to come up with solutions that work for both sides. By actively engaging with employers, the government can help build support for the proposal and increase the chances of a successful implementation. The government can also explore alternative funding sources to support the increased contributions. For example, they can redirect some of the revenue from a new tax or the collection of unpaid taxes to support the proposal. This will help alleviate Regulate AI technology for better efficiency ARTIFICIAL intelligence has the potential to be a transformative technology that can significantly impact our daily lives but only with appropriate bans and regulations in place to ensure AI is used and developed ethically and responsibly. “AI has already shown its potential and has the possibility to revolutionise many areas, such as healthcare, finance, transportation and more. It can automate tedious tasks, increase efficiency and provide information that was previously not possible. “AI can also help us solve complex problems, make better decisions, reduce human error or tackle dangerous tasks, such as defusing a bomb, flying into space or exploring the oceans. But at the same time, we see massive use of AI technologies to develop cyber threats as well,” says Check Point Software Technologies, Singapore Country Manager Rebecca Law. Such misuse of AI has been widely reported in the media, with select reports around ChatGPT being leveraged by cybercriminals to contribute to the creation of malware. Overall, the development of AI is not just another passing craze, but it remains to be seen how much of a positive or negative impact it will have on society. And although AI has been around for a long time, 2023 will be remembered as the “Year of AI”. However, there continues to be a lot of hype around this technology and some companies may be overreacting. We need to have realistic expectations and not see AI as an automatic panacea for all the world’s problems. We often hear concerns of whether AI will approach or even surpass human capabilities. Predicting how advanced AI will be is difficult but there are already several categories. Current AI is referred to as narrow or “weak” AI (ANI – Artificial Narrow Intelligence). General AI (AGI – Artificial General Intelligence) should function like the human brain, thinking, learning and solving tasks like a human. The last category is Artificial Super Intelligence, and is basically machines that are smarter than us. If AI reaches the level of AGI, there is a risk that it could act on its own and potentially become a threat to humanity. Therefore, we need to work on aligning the goals and values of AI with those of humans. Law adds, “To mitigate the risks, it is important that governments, companies and regulators work together to develop robust safety mechanisms, establish ethical principles and promote transparency and accountability in AI development. “Currently, there is a minimum of rules and regulations. There are proposals, such as the AI Act, but none of these have been passed and, essentially, everything so far is governed by the ethical compasses of users and developers. “Depending on the type of AI, companies that develop and release AI systems should ensure at least minimum standards, such as privacy, fairness, explainability or accessibility.” Unfortunately, AI can also be used by cybercriminals to refine their attacks, automatically identify vulnerabilities, create targeted phishing campaigns, socially engineer or create advanced malware that can change its code to better evade detection. AI can also be used to generate convincing audio and video deepfakes that can be used for political manipulation, false evidence in criminal trials or to trick users into paying money. But AI is also an important aid in defending against cyberattacks in particular. For example, Check Point uses more than 70 different tools to analyse threats and protect against attacks, more than 40 of which are AIbased. These technologies help with behavioural analysis, analysing large amounts of threat data from a variety of sources. “Various bans and restrictions on AI have also been discussed recently. In the case of ChatGPT, the concerns are mainly related to privacy, nor is the age limit of users addressed. “However, blocking similar services has only limited effect, as any savvy user can get around the ban by using a VPN, for example, and there is also a brisk trade in stolen premium accounts. “The problem is that most users do not realise that the sensitive information entered into ChatGPT will be very valuable if leaked and can be used for targeted marketing purposes. We are talking about potential social manipulation on a scale never seen before,” points out Law. The impact of AI on our society will depend on how we choose to develop and use this technology. It will be important to weigh the potential benefits and risks while striving to ensure that AI is developed in a responsible, ethical and beneficial way for society. This article was contributed by Check Point Software, a leading cybersecurity solutions provider. Spruce up Seremban city to attract tourists DURING a recent visit to Seremban, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a total allocation of RM1.27 billion for socio-economic development projects in Negeri Sembilan. The Negeri Sembilan folks were pleased as the city and towns will undergo some transformation for the well-being of the people. The prime minister also announced plans to rebuild dilapidated schools and improve special education. In addition, health clinics will be upgraded to reduce overcrowding. Meanwhile, the owners of the 891 units of Residensi Seremban Sentral homes under the PR1MA Corporation Malaysia, who had previously failed to receive their house keys from the developer, will be able to move in next month. The state government should also take initiatives to remove or clean up “eyesores” from the city, like the unsightly pond which came into being when The Convent Seremban development project was abandoned in 1997. It should also look into either reviving or clearing other abandoned projects to breathe new life into the city. As a premier school, King George V requires a fresh coat of paint as it is in a dilapidated condition. The abandoned building facing the school is another eyesore in the area. The Seremban Municipal Council should improve its planning to attract more tourists while Port Dickson should undergo a facelift to become a more attractive tourist destination. While Nilai is known as a textile city and industrial location, Seremban 2 has seen remarkable development, except for the traffic congestion during peak hours, which is expected to ease upon completion of the outer ring road. Seremban city has the potential to become a progressive commerce centre and provide a better living environment. To achieve this, town planners must prioritise development initiatives. The upcoming High-Speed Rail could play a significant role in drawing both local and foreign tourists to the city, making the Seremban Railway Station an essential stopover. The state government should also consider making Seremban a smart, low-carbon city by strengthening its digital infrastructure, promoting sustainable mobility and ensuring an eco-friendly environment. Seremban city should shine not only as an economic hub but also as a preferred destination for foreign investors, tourism and job opportunities, resulting in increased revenue for the state and improved well-being for the community. Its strategic location within the Southern Corridor of Greater Kuala Lumpur will bring about positive impacts for its people. C. Sathasivam Sitheravellu Seremban LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Dr Paul Anthony Mariadas Whether the increase is extreme or not depends on various factors, including the economy, the competitiveness of businesses and the social welfare needs of the population. The proposal is a significant policy move that may have far-reaching implications for both employees and businesses in the country. If it is brought to the Cabinet for discussions, there are several key points that are likely to be considered. One of the main considerations is the impact on businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). As SMEs form a significant portion of the economy, an increase in EPF contributions can have a significant impact on their financial viability. The government will need to assess if businesses can afford the increased contributions and how it may affect their competitiveness. The proposal can also affect discussions and negotiations with regards to the minimum wage in Malaysia as both issues are related to the overall compensation package of employees and cost of doing business for employers. If employers are required to bear the additional cost of EPF contributions, they may have less for salaries or to implement the minimum wage policy. This can create challenges in negotiations between employers and employees as well as between the government and industry representatives. However, it is important to note that increasing EPF contributions and implementing the minimum wage policy are both important in ensuring that employees are fairly compensated and able to meet their basic needs. Both issues are also related to improving the overall economic welfare of the country as higher wages and retirement savings can lead to increased consumer spending and economic growth. The long-term financial sustainability of EPF is also an important consideration. The entity has a significant obligation to its contributors, and the government will need to assess whether the increased contributions are sufficient to support the fund’s future obligations while exploring other measures to ensure its financial sustainability. Public perception is also a key consideration. The government will need to examine how the proposal is likely to be received by different stakeholders, including EPF contributors, businesses and the public. If the proposal is implemented, the government will need to find a balance between the needs of employees and employers. One option is to implement the increase in phases. This will give employers time to adjust and mitigate the financial impact on their COMMENT Weigh options before raising EPF contribution the financial burden on employers while achieving the objective of increased EPF contributions. In conclusion, the proposal is a complex issue that will require careful evaluation and consideration of multiple factors. While it can improve the financial security of EPF contributors, the government will need to weigh the potential benefits and costs before deciding. Ultimately, any decision will need to be guided by the goal of promoting sustainable economic growth and social welfare in Malaysia. Dr Paul Anthony Mariadas is a Lecturer for the School of Accounting and Finance at Taylor’s Business School, Faculty of Business and Law, Taylor’s University. Comments: [email protected] Flashback of a report in theSun on May 3.

ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 Heartfelt Mother’s Day wishes from our readers >>> Page S4S5

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 S2 EVERYBODY has a different way of celebrating Mother’s Day, but if both you and your mother are both movie buffs, this guide has you covered. Watching a movie that can entertain as well as remind you about how special you mum is can be a great way to spend Mother’s Day this year. You can cuddle on the couch with your family while watching any one of these feature films this Mother’s Day, as they all celebrate various aspects of motherhood in their own way. Get ready to stream any movie from our carefully-selected library by grabbing some popcorn (and some tissues). Stepmom. – IMDB oHere are eight films you might want to watch with your Mother on her special day █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Freaky Friday. – IMDB Monster-In-Law. – IMDB The Blind Side. – IMDB Brave. – IMDB Dumplin. – IMDB Little Women. – SONY PICTURES Yes Day. – IMDB Stepmom (1998) In the movie Stepmom, Susan Sarandon and Julia Roberts co-star as Jackie and Isabel, two different women who first butt heads over raising the latter’s children. Isabel has been dating Jackie’s ex-husband for a year, and the ex-husband decides to marry Isabel, making her the stepmother of his and Jackie’s two children. Jackie is keeping her catastrophic medical prognosis a secret, but she is unapologetic about how much she despises Isabel and her parenting approach. The two ladies are able to share their anxieties and hopes for the future with one another after experiencing an emotional roller coaster and having many difficult discussions. Freaky Friday (2003) Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan portray a mother-and-daughter duo who are at odds. They unexpectedly find themselves inhabiting each other’s bodies. They must assume the each other’s lives and roles until they can come up with a solution. The rest of the plot revolves around whether they will survive the day without destroying one another’s lives. Monster-In-Law (2005) Jennifer Lopez’s Charlie struggles with her possessive soon-to-be mother-in-law Viola (Jane Fonda), who is, to put it politely, not very impressed with her son’s choice of bride. Viola will do all it takes to ensure that she is the only significant female figure in her son’s life, so Charlie is in for an unpleasant shock. The Blind Side (2009) The Blind Side is a touching film that celebrates the importance of family and love. The movie, which is based on a real life incident, centres around a wealthy white couple that takes in a destitute African-American adolescent and helps him develop as a football player. The movie ought to inspire you and your mother since it is an excellent representation of the love and support that families may bestow. If you want to tear those tears out, make sure to watch this film. Brave (2012) Although it is an easy choice for mothers of young children, this film is beloved by all age groups. Mums of brash tweens and adolescents will identify most with Merida’s fiery independence and determination to forge her own way in life. And when Merida and her mother, Queen Elinor, eventually come to an understanding, mums and daughters everywhere will experience a small warm-fuzzy moment. Dumplin (2018) Rosie Dickson, played by Jennifer Aniston, is Dumplin’s mother who has invested more time and energy in southern pageants than her daughter. The two are compelled to work together after Rosie’s sister, who was Dumplin’s guardian, passes away. This mother-daughter team gets off to a bad start, but after considering things from the other person’s viewpoint, they come to an understanding and form a bond. Little Women (2019) One heartwarming film that honours the familial relationships is Little Women. The film tells the tale of four sisters’ experiences during the American Civil War. The movie is based on a well-known novel by Louisa May Alcott. Here, the sisters’ love, devotion, and friendship are all very evident. While focusing on a group of sisters, it’s a wonderful movie to watch with your mum since it shows how important family is. Yes Day (2021) Allison (Jennifer Garner) and Carlos, her husband decide to try a “Yes Day” when Allison is presented as the tyrant during a parent-teacher meeting. After establishing basic ground rules, the parents are supposed to grant their children’s requests for a full day. Katie, her daughter, wagers that Allison will never be able to say “yes” for the entire day since she so badly wants to attend a festival that her mother disapproves of. Then, knowing full well that Allison will reject them, Katie and her siblings come up with a variety of activities. As tensions rise and plans falter, Allison learns that her daughter is more mature than she ever could have imagined. Katie also discovers that sometimes the best response she can ever receive is “no.”

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 S3 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME TRY surprising one of the most significant women in your life on Mother’s Day with one of the greatest unusual presents for Mum. This holiday honours all mothers – whether they are biological or not – for their unwavering love in shaping the people their offspring have become. For our top 10 Mother’s Day gift suggestions in 2023, see the list below. Perfume It is said that certain feminine characteristics, and traits of class and style are associated with perfume. The perfect scent may also help one feel more confident in their daily life. A perfume is the ideal present for working mothers, and you can present it to her as a token of appreciation for all of her efforts in shaping you into the person you are today. A perfume’s aroma might also make you feel nostalgic, and remind you of happy moments. So that the mother figure in your life will never forget this Mother’s Day, make it tantalisingly-scented. Massage day Treating your mother to a relaxing massage or spa experience can help her decompress and relieve tension, and it’s a gift that’s difficult to refuse. Find a great massage location to unwind and revitalise. If you want to treat your mother to a pleasant experience without emptying your bank account, you can even arrange a body massage, foot reflexology, aromatherapy, or even a body scrub package. Photo book Family picture books are a classic, and one of the nicest Mother’s Day presents you can give your mother. Filling out the album with your preferred images may need a little more work on your part, but once you see the happiness on her face, it will all have been worthwhile. Jewellery Just because it’s jewellery doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune on it to please your mother. Clean, beautiful designs have been in style for generations. There will always be a unique thrill with jewels for women, so it’s a fantastic way to communicate how important your mum is to you. Jewellery is also the one item that most closely resembles what we mean when we say a gift is “timeless”. Clothes may fade and go out of style. Electronics gradually go out of date. However, jewellery will be treasured for all time. Flowers Nobody can dispute that flowers are wonderful to look at, regardless of how lavish or simple their presentation. And your mother ought to love their natural simplicity. Find out her favourite type of flowers and give her a stunning bouquet that would look beautiful as a centrepiece for the table in your dining area. Customised mug Nobody will mistakenly take your mother’s mug at work or home ever again, if you have a lovely vessel with her name on it. Personalised drinking mugs are enjoyable and demonstrate to your mum that you took time to choose and craft a present just for her. Everybody has room in their life for one more mug, and she will think of you every time she makes a cup of tea, thanks oHere are some ideas for the perfect gift for your mummy dearest █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Fragrance makes the perfect Mother’s Day gift. A Mother’s Day massage is a gift your mum will deeply appreciate. Capture all your special moments with your beautiful mother with a cute photo book. Flowers like roses, carnations, lilies, orchids, chrysanthemums, are some of the best flowers for mum on Mother’s Day. Make your own Mother’s Day mug by adding your own text. Mums who love gardening would love a gardening tool set. to this present. Candles For Mother’s Day, birthdays, or any occasion, candles are a beautiful, long-lasting present. If you want to give the woman in your life a little time to unwind and unwind, a refreshing candle will make their homes seem like a spa. They will enjoy unwinding with candles that have notes of sea salt, lemon, seagrass, cyprus, and vanilla. However, you can also find out your mum’s favourite scent and gift her candles with her favourite scent that she will definitely love. Watch Being trustworthy and showing up early for every significant milestone in one’s life is one quality that practically all mums are renowned for. Therefore, what could be a greater present than a well-made watch from your mum’s favourite timepiece brand. Think about the undertone of your mother’s skin while choosing a shade. Silver will enhance her features the most if she has a cool undertone. If she has an earthy undertone, though, light colours would the finest choice. Gardening set tools If your mother loves spending time in the garden, I’m sure you already know by now what to gift her. She will probably need some gardening equipment and supplies to maintain the best-looking garden. Even if you think she has everything she needs, there is always something fresh in the gardening world to be envious of. And as we all know, the finest presents are those that are customised to your loved ones’ hobbies. Your mum’s plants will flourish, and thus, so will she. Coffee maker Coffee is a common afternoon pick-me-up or even a pleasure at night for many parents or individuals in general. You can always give your mother another coffee mug if she likes the beverage, but a true coffee enthusiast frequently seeks items that are just as unique as their favourite brew. A quality coffee setup is a useful and well-received present, and there are various price points to suit your budget. Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, May 14, 2023. – ALL PIX VIA 123RF

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 S4 I love you, Mum! Best wishes on Mother’s Day.” Rosliza - Fitri Rozmi “Happy Mother’s Day to mum and all mummies in the world. I rarely celebrate Mother’s Day as I believe Mother’s Day is supposed to be every day. Every day we should acknowledge the struggle and sacrifices of our mother to do all things that not everyone willingly does for free. I always appreciate the things that mum did from the day I was born until now. I hope everyone is living a good life and can have their best moment with their mother. Mother is an unsung superwoman indeed! Love that no one can replace and there is no warmer place beside being near to your mother.” Suzita - Iman Zulaikha “Happy Mother’s Day iboo! You have never failed to shower me with your affection and wisdom throughout my entire life. Thank you for always giving me your best effort and for tolerating my behaviour. No one could love me more and no one can inspire me like you do. You are the greatest gift given to me by Allah. May ibu and ayah have a blessed hajj. We will certainly miss having you both around.” Zailillah Zainudi - Ilanur Afifah “Mama is the coolest and most amazing woman I’ve ever met in this whole world! She is a wonderful person who is incredibly strong, kind-hearted and always cheerful. Her cooking is absolutely the best! I could eat whatever she MOTHER’S DAY is just around the corner! It is a special day that is being celebrated all over the world to express our love, gratitude, and appreciation for all the sacrifices, love, care, and support that they have provided us throughout our lives. Mothers are the pillars of strength who work tirelessly to provide their children with a safe and nurturing environment. It is a day to express gratitude and appreciation for all the sacrifices, sleepless nights, and hard work they have put in to raise us. Thus, BUZZ used this opportunity to ask its readers to send their Mother’s Day greetings ahead of the upcoming Mother’s Day celebration on May 14. Let’s celebrate Mother’s Day together with love and appreciation for all the amazing mothers in our lives. Noorliza - Nashrin Azmi “Growing up you’ve always shown me how strong a person can be, mentally. You believed in my dreams when no one else did. What I can say is, a mother understands what a child does not say and she is also the glue that holds everyone together. I am so glad I listened to some of your naggings, even if it took me a while to understand what you were getting at. Happy mother’s day, mama! Wishing you all the love and happiness you truly deserve. Lots of love, Nash.” Puan Zaiton - Syafiqi Salleh “Mum, thank you for your countless acts of (right) Noorliza and Nashrin Azmi. oBUZZ asked our readers to send their Mother’s Day wishes █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL (left) Zakiyah Shukur and Sharifah Natasha. Suzita and Iman Zulaikha. Zailillah Zainudi and Ilanur Afifah. Rawina Mohamed and Nia Amira Najwa. Salmah Hashim surrounded by her family, including daughter Saliza Jamali. kindness. You have taught me the meaning of true love. Thank you for being there for me through my life’s ups and downs. You will always hold a special place in my heart, and no one else can fill it. You will constantly be there. Happy Mother’s Day, Puan Zaiton!” Zakiyah Shukur - Sharifah Natasha “Happy Mother’s Day to the one person in my life who has loved and supported me no matter what. I appreciate you being my pillar of support, my confidante, and my biggest cheerleader. Forever and always, I will be thankful for a mother like you. Here’s to a special day for you, Mama! I love you so much.” Gayaetari Tanara - Kousalya Selvam & siblings “Dear Amma, we are truly blessed to have you as our Mum. Your perseverance and passion for learning have always been a source of inspiration for us. I wish I had your bravery and resilience, and I hope to be as stunning as you are! “Amma, on this Mother’s Day, I want to wish you an amazing day filled with love and happiness. Thank you for being the best mom ever. We all love you. From Koshy, Veeraw, Tivyaruopan.” Salmah Pasarudin - Aniq Ammar Ekhwan “Thank you to the woman who has encouraged me and showered me with love while also teaching me how to be the best version of myself that I can be. You are the kindest and most loving person I know. I admire you so much. I am grateful that you brought me into this world and that you continue to support me every day.

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 S5 Puan Zaiton and Syafiqi Salleh. Gayaetari Tanara, with Kousalya Selvam and her siblings. Salmah Pasarudin and Aniq Ammar Ekhwan. Rosliza and Fitri Rozmi. Kalsom Ali, with Kamran Saif and Kamil Sirhan. Salmah Hashim surrounded by her family, including daughter Saliza Jamali. Chang Swee Oi and Goh Yen Teng. Anne Kow and Jenny Teng. cooks for the rest of my life. So, happy Mother’s Day, mama, also known as my most beloved buddy. I will always love you. Kalsom Ali - Kamran Saif & Kamil Sirhan This Mother’s Day, we want to celebrate your strength, resilience, and unwavering love for me. You never fail to show both courage and an amazing sense of care, which radiates everywhere you go. Losing your husband early in your marriage must have been difficult, but you have shown tremendous courage in taking on the role of both mother and father. Your dedication and sacrifices inspire us and your determination fuels me. We will always cherish everything you have done. Knowing you has been a blessing for us and will always be. Sending you love forever and always.” Rawina Mohamed - Nia Amira Najwa “Dearest Mama, on this special occasion of Mother’s Day, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering love and dedication towards us, your children. You are the most precious gem in our lives, and we are truly blessed to have you. May you always be showered with good health, joy, and love, and may we always be by your side to cherish and celebrate the beautiful moments of life. Happy Mother’s Day, Mama! We love you more than words can express.” Salmah Hashim - Saliza Jamali “Mum, I cry whenever I look at this picture. I can’t believe the photo we took together last year will be our last. Although I am saddened by your absence, I am very grateful for the happy moments we shared. You were always there for me through everything and I appreciate and love you for that. Even though you are no longer with us, I know you can still hear me, so I want to say that I love and miss you every day. Happy Mother’s Day!” Chang Swee Oi - Goh Yen Teng “Wishing a very Happy Mother’s Day to the most amazing mom in the world! Thank you for your unwavering love, support, and guidance. Your sacrifices and dedication have shaped me into the person I am today. May your day be filled with love, joy, and blessings.” Anne Kow - Jenny Teng “Dearest Mum, on this special day, I just wanted to express my heartfelt gratitude for all that you have done for me. Thank you for teaching me to strive for excellence, to be kind, compassionate and strong. You have molded me into the best version of myself, and I owe it all to you. Happy Mother’s Day, Mum!”

ON FRIDAY MAY 12, 2023 ► Contributing Editor: KESHY DHILLON / [email protected] ► Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 / +6012-580 3470 ► To advertise email: [email protected] Xceptional! THE covers are officially off and we can finally share everything there is to know about the new flagship Proton SUV. One of the biggest debates that has been raging online was the pricing, but it must be said that at the prices listed below, the X90 has undoubtedly shook that market: 1. X90 Flagship: RM152,800 2. X90 Premium: RM144,800 3. X90 Executive: RM130,800 4. X90 Standard: RM123,800 The third Proton model under the X series after the X50 and X70, the X90 almost checks all the boxes for anyone looking for a decent SUV for their family, or even to be driven in because the 6-seater flagship model is actually quite comfortable to be driven in or to drive, as this writer found out during a press test up to Genting. But before going any further, it is important to understand that the cars we drove were pre-production models. So there were things about it that were not quite up to mark, such as the wind and tyre noise was quite audible inside the cabin and power seemed to be lacking as the car simply did not have much torque to rely on when climbing up Genting Highlands. So it was a bit of a relief to know that the cars we drove were preproduction models, and the cars that will be handed to customers will be better, or so that’s what we were told by Proton’s engineers during a Q&A session after the drive. But there’s much more to the X90 than just that. DESIGN There really isn’t much to say about the design of the X90 that has not been said already. It is slightly different than the Geely HaoYue which it is based on and Proton did have some say in the design direction of the X90 but this was mostly around the front end where the now iconic ethereal bow has a more prominent presence. █ KESHY DHILLON New Proton X90 currently the best value for money premium SUV in Malaysia SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 1.5-litre, 3-cylinders, 12 Valve DOHC with 48V Electric Motor Transmission: 7-speed Dual Clutch with Manual Mode Horsepower: 190PS@5500rpm Torque: 300Nm@1500rpm Suspension: MacPherson Strut (Front) / Multilink with Stabiliser (Rear) Brakes: Ventilated Disc (Front) / Solid Disc (Rear) Price, Interior Comfort, Features. No Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. The X90 is powered by the same 1.5-litre 3- cylinder turbocharged engine as the X70 but produces more power at 190PS and 300Nm.

7 MAY 12, 2023 As compared to the X50 and X70, the grille features a diamond like design which Proton says has been inspired by a “kain songket” and calls it the infinite weave. On the inside, there’s the usual updates which we found in the X70 some years ago as well – such as a new steering wheel design with the Proton logo placed in the middle. INTERIOR During the first preview event held about two weeks prior to the press drive, Proton said that the interior of the X90 is sure to surprise. Proton’s Head of Design Azlan Othman described it as a “well appointed interior” and we believed him because the interior truly looked and felt good. But after viewing it under the sun and spending time in it, it must be said that the interior is more than just good, it is the best interior ever seen in a Proton. Unlike the interior of the X70 that was staid with some boring faux aluminium trimming that felt hollow when explored in detail, the interior of the X90 has none of that. Well appointed is an understatement with the soft touch plastics, premium stitching and wellbuilt switches. In fact, the interior feels like it belongs in a RM200,000 car. And even though it is not as well put together as a Mazda, it is pretty close – in our opinion at least. Families will appreciate the overall spaciousness too. It does not matter if you pick the six of seven seater, space is generous. An industry colleague of ours took the third row seats on the way down from Genting, and his 170cm frame was quite comfortable. The only issue with having anyone seated in the third row is that booth space takes a hit and with the third row seats in place there’s only enough space for three to four small to medium size bags. We also like the fact that every passenger gets an air-conditioning vent (roof mounted for the rear passengers) and a dedicated Type A or Type C USB port. The X90 is definitely well suited for life as a family car. A 12.3-inch touchscreen entertainment system dominates the dashboard and provides a crisp, clear readout of all the necessary information. There’s no Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but Proton is already finding it difficult to make a case against having those systems so we suspect these two “must have” features may crop up in future models. Having said that, you will have to rely on the onboard Atlas navigation system, which, as we found out, is not the sharpest tool in the GPS shed. Google Maps and Waze are lightyears ahead in terms of accuracy and for providing real time traffic updates. On the topic of digital meter panels, there’s also another 10-inch full digital panel that serves as the instrument cluster. It too offers clear readability but there’s just one complaint – it can be quite confusing at first. There’s just too much information on display at any given time, so it does require some getting used to. On that matter, the X70’s instrument panel is easier to read when driving. On the flipside though, the clarity and sharpness of the X90’s reverse and 360 cameras will put some luxury cars to shame. It’s one of the best in the market right now. POWERPLANT The X90 is powered by the same 1.5-litre, three-cylinder, turbocharged engine as found in the X70 MC. It is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox with power being sent exclusivity to the front wheels. The engine in the X90 may be the same as the X70 MC, but here the engine is backed up by a belt-started generator (BSG) that basically makes the X90 a mild hybrid. Proton calls the system the EMS, which stands for Electric Motor Synergy, and you will find that badging under the wing mirrors. The entire EMS system is made up of the generator, a DC-to-DC generator, a lithium-ion battery placed under the boot floor, a battery management system, a brake energy recuperation system and a control system to manage the hybrid module. By itself, the engine produces 177PS and 255Nm of torque. But with the hybrid system added on, the X90 puts out a further 13PS and 45Nm of torque for a total system output of 190PS and 300Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels via a sevenspeed wet dual-clutch gearbox. Proton claims that the increase in power allows 10% better acceleration and reduces CO2 emissions by 13%. One of the key features of the powertrain is something called the “Smart Glide”. Designed to improve efficiency, Smart Glide disengages the gearbox when coasting between 30 and 120kph for smoother driving. And the engine even switches off at below 15kph when coming to a standstill to improve fuel economy. The great thing about this system is that you don’t ever feel it working in the background, and because the meter panel is completely digital, you can’t tell when the engine is switched off either. Most people will be hard pressed to feel it working, such is its smoothness. CONCLUSION The X90 is by far the most premium car Proton has ever made. The interior is well built and spacious and it is a great car for families and executives alike. It offers all the features you like and big families will appreciate the copious amount of legroom that the third row seats have to offer. It also offers all the driver assistance systems that are expected of modern day cars such as autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, intelligent cruise control, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert (a first for Proton), and the usual passive safety systems as well. And now with prices starting from just RM123,800 there is no doubt that the Proton X90 is the near flagbearer for the Malaysian SUV segment. The 12.3-inch touchscreen system offers impressively clear reading and even the camera quality is top notch. The X90 offers a full digital meter panel that is great to look at but can be cluttered at first and takes some time to get used to. The buttons have a good feel and despite having twin USB ports, there is also a wireless charge pad. Looking like it came of an Audi, the gear selector is unlike any other Proton model. The X90 offers 3 driving modes, hill descent control and 360° cameras. Proton X70 owners will recognise these buttons and controls. Second row passengers get to adjust the air-cond blower setting and also get a Type A as well as Type C USB port. The third row seats offer split foldability and is great when you want to ferry people and lots of stuff.

8 MAY 12, 2023 In for the long haul UMW Toyota Motor set on long-term growth In Malaysia DESPITE a slight 3% month-overmonth decline in sales in April 2022, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has its sights set on long-term growth and is confident in its overall performance. The company projects a positive gain of 9% in year-to-date sales reported for April 2023 compared to April 2022. Even with the shorter operational month in April 2023, it is still on track to meet its midyear target with a total of 6,681 Toyota and 86 Lexus new vehicle sales. Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, said, “We remain confident in our ability to deliver strong year-over-year growth. “Our new models, especially the AllNew Toyota Vios, which were introduced in the first quarter of 2023, have received a positive response, and we anticipate that this will help us maintain our growth throughout the year.” Ravindran further restated his promise about the All-New Toyota Vios’s high standards for safety and quality. “We want to reassure you that the All-New Toyota Vios complies with all safety rules and that the quality of the car has not been compromised. Our first goal is always to keep our customers and our cars safe,” he said. Along with releasing two new models, UMWT revealed two planned brand efforts that would further strengthen the GAZOO Racing brand’s position in Malaysia. The first is Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival Season 6 Race 2 This one-make racing series will feature the Toyota Vios on June 3 and 4, 2023, and will test the prowess and abilities of Malaysia’s top elite racers, rising stars, and a lineup of new well-known personalities. The second is Toyota GAZOO Racing GT Cup 2023 On the other side, a simulator racing competition in its sixth year is the Toyota GAZOO Racing GT Cup. Since its inception in 2018, it has solidified its position as Malaysia’s most lucrative online racing series. A total prize pool of RM90,000 is available for the competition, which annually attracts more than 1,000 online simulator racers. The event has also been a success, with more than 3 million viewers and 40,000 spectators. The GR GT Cup is a significant expansion of Toyota’s aim to support the development of Malaysian motorsports, particularly in the areas of identifying and nurturing young talent. Its goals include popularising motorsports as well as encouraging increased youth participation. █ TIMOTHY PRAKASH 1.3 million overdue traffic summonses settled ACCORDING to reports, about 1.3 million pastdue traffic tickets have been paid since the government started offering reduced pricing on summons on April 21. After 16 days of the discount being offered, the reaction has been positive, according to Datuk Seri Mat Kasim Karim, director of the Federal Police Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (TEID). “TEID’s goal was to make sure that people took advantage of this opportunity because the majority of past-due summonses from 2022 and earlier qualify for this special rate. “The public can settle summonses via a variety of platforms until May 21 at the discounted amount of just RM50,” Mat Kasim said. As stated by Mat Kasim, the general public has several options for paying their summonses: » Online » myBayar PDRM app » All TEID counters » Post offices In addition, they can pay their summonses via Maybank’s automated teller machines. “The government wants to assist the people by lessening the financial responsibilities they are carrying, and this discount of up to 86% is a part of that effort,” he said. A number of government initiatives were unveiled on April 18 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in an effort to assist the populace in easing their financial worries. A reduced rate for summonses had also been mentioned. Proton’s celebrates 40th birthday ON MAY 7, 1983, Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (Proton), was established with the goal of fostering Malaysia’s economic industrialization by creating a supportive environment for the nation’s budding automotive sector. The corporation is now entering new market areas that will once again fuel the country’s dreams, forty years and nearly five million cars later. The Proton X90 is the company’s first new Energy Vehicle (NEV) product in addition to adding a third model to its market-leading lineup of SUVs. It promises to offer lower fuel consumption, lower emissions, higher performance, and a smoother driving experience thanks to a power plant that combines an award-winning 1.5-liter TGDi engine with a 48V electric motor synergy system. The third X-series model in Proton’s sports utility vehicle (SUV) lineup was officially unveiled by Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur. The company’s 40th-anniversary celebration is a key turning point for Proton and a chance to momentarily reflect on its path while also looking to the future. Proton’s contribution over the past four decades can be measured not just in terms of sales but also in terms of the number of engineers and professionals involved, the number of jobs created, the value added to the ecosystem in the form of local purchases, and the overall improvement of the economy as a result of our business activities. In order to become a strategic partner with DRB-HICOM and further the development of the domestic automaker, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group acquired 49.9% of Proton in 2017. This marked the beginning of Proton’s cooperation with Geely. Six years of integration between Proton and Geely resulted in significant adjustments to R&D, manufacturing, quality, procurement, and sales and marketing. This resulted in Proton’s sales volume and market share increasing, which helped the business rank second in Malaysia for four years in a row and accomplish the brand’s initial rebirth. The key to assisting Proton’s future development is Geely’s worldwide innovation leadership, core module framework, and electric and intelligent products. In the upcoming years, Geely will keep upgrading Proton with high-end systems and cutting-edge technology to enhance its systematic capabilities and realise mutually beneficial outcomes. After the Proton X70 was introduced on Dec 12, 2018, sales increased from 64,744 units that year to 141,432 units in 2022, the highest levels since 2013. Given that sales for the first four months of 2023 ended at 49,702 units, the rising trend seems likely to continue. Recent occurrences support the optimism. With the release of the Proton X90, Proton now has a third SUV option, strengthening its position as the top SUV brand in Malaysia. Prior to the smart No. 1’s local market debut in Q4 – the first product from the company’s new energy vehicle division, Proton New energy Technology (PRO-NET) – updates to other models are also expected this year. Following the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HOA) between DRB-HICOM and Geely that aims to attract RM32 billion in investment to develop the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, Proton confirmed its future NEV model plan following a visit to the Zeekr Intelligent Factory in Hangzhou Bay by the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in April of this year. Proton has a defined roadmap that includes launching new products, enhancing the customer experience, providing industryleading after-sales, and carrying out their NEV strategy, which should help us achieve our objectives as the firm approaches the second part of its ten-year turnaround plan. Success in this collaboration would also enable Proton to keep playing a key role in the growth of Malaysia’s automotive ecosystem. – Timothy Prakash Ford to continue using Apple CarPlay ONE of the nicest features for a smart driving experience is Apple Carplay. There are now a lot of businesses using this programme, but as technology develops, it’s very likely that automakers may wish to create their own entertainment systems. For instance, starting in 2024, General Motors wants to phase out CarPlay in its electric vehicles. According to Ford’s CEO Jim Farley, there have been rumours that starting in 2023, Ford too was going to phase out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility from their new vehicles. In a recent interview with The Wall Street Journal, Farley remarked, “In terms of content, we kind of lost that battle ten years ago. Therefore, “get real with it,” as you won’t make a lot of money from the content inside the car (better to work with Carplay).” A large user base benefits automaker’s greatly. Better data provides greater chances for marketing, optimisation, and perhaps even the sale of in-system features and applications that compel consumers to keep using the infotainment system. The automakers may have access to that data through CarPlay, but ultimately Apple is collecting all information regarding customer driving behaviour. Farley makes a very strong case. He argues that because most people bring their mobile phones into their automobiles, they want the infotainment to be a natural extension of their phones rather than an additional burden. Another way to look at it is that adopting CarPlay and Android Auto cost automakers money to license, but that expense is spread out over a significant volume of production. The likelihood of a CarPlay-only infotainment system is remote and improbable because automakers need their own interface for the hitech devices found in today’s vehicles. This is true as we feel that Apple Carplay is an essential need the moment we get into our cars. It is one of the greater things invented to ease our lives and better our driving experience. To remove it would be going to war with consumers. Anwar unveiling the Proton X90 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

KLCI 1,425.18 STI 3,229.55 HANG SENG 19,743.79 SCI 3,309.55 NIKKEI 29,126.72 5.51 TSEC 15,514.64 KOSPI 2,491.00 S&P/ASX200 7,251.90 4.54 FRIDAY MAY 12, 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 May 11, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) FITTERS-WC 71,617,600 0.5 -0.5 VINVEST 19,807,700 19.5 -0.5 BAHVEST 13,497,700 13.0 +1.5 EDUSPEC-WC 13,428,900 1.0 +0.5 HSI-CLQ 12,251,100 14.5 UNCH EXCHANGERATES MAY 11, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.5140 4.3800 4.3680 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0800 2.9590 2.9320 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4070 3.3090 3.2930 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3720 3.2820 3.2670 1 EURO 4.9650 4.8060 4.7760 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8890 2.7840 2.7500 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4070 3.3090 3.2930 1 STERLING POUND 5.7090 5.5290 5.5060 1 SWISS FRANC 5.0620 4.9450 4.9230 100 UAE DIRHAM 124.3700 117.9200 117.6700 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.2750 4.0110 3.7610 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 65.5500 62.7800 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 58.2700 55.3800 55.0700 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.6000 5.2600 5.0500 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0317 0.0287 0.0237 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3740 3.2670 3.2250 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR N/A N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.5800 1.4900 1.3100 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.2300 7.7600 7.5300 100 QATAR RIYAL 125.2400 118.8900 118.1400 100 SAUDI RIYAL 121.7000 115.5400 115.3400 100 THAI BAHT 14.0400 12.4500 12.0200 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY May 11, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,430.90 -14.00 FBMKLCI 1,425.18 -0.50 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 575.55 -0.96 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 168.47 -1.08 CONSTRUCTION 161.56 -0.65 FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,588.20 -9.73 ENERGY 831.81 -1.50 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 619.02 -5.90 HEALTH CARE 1,812.16 -20.50 TRANSPORTATION 907.45 -2.57 PROPERTY 699.05 -0.75 PLANTATION 6,914.31 +75.79 FBMSHA 10,768.50 -28.60 FBMACE 5,026.20 -15.50 TECHNOLOGY 58.85 -0.75 TURNOVER VALUE 3.396 BIL RM1.622 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS May 11, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM DIN045801028 30 104.50 +1.00 KLK 732,400 22.02 +0.30 HEIM 20,200 28.40 +0.20 HSI-HNH 2,300 2.12 +0.20 CARLSBG 81,700 21.76 +0.16 5 TOP LOSERS May 11, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM PETDAG 94,200 22.32 -0.48 DLADY 6,700 25.80 -0.20 GREATEC 475,900 4.23 -0.16 PCHEM 3,949,400 7.16 -0.15 BKAWAN 10,100 21.62 -0.14 0.50 12.74 18.41 9.60 127.12 3.80 RMS Synergy in JV with Vietnam OSV service firm PETALING JAYA: RMS Synergy Sdn Bhd has entered into a joint venture (JV) with Vietnam-based offshore support vessel (OSV) service provider Hai Duong Petroleum and Marine Corporation (Haduco) to form Haduco RMS Sdn Bhd, driven by the increased demand for OSV by O&G operators in Malaysia. Both parties entered into a shareholders’ agreement under the wholly owned Haduco RMS Sdn Bhd, whereby RMS From left: Petronas category management logistics and warehousing group procurement general manager Rajman Zareqh Zainol, Orang Besar Daerah Petaling Datuk Emran Kadir, RMS Synergy chairman Abdul Ghafur Maidin, Mohamad Asraf, Tran, Embassy of the Socialise Republic of Vietnam Charge d’Affairs Nguyen Thi Ng c Anh, Haduco chairman Pham Xuan Thang, and PetroVietnam’s Dinh Manh Quan, during the ceremony. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THE SUN oMalaysian company, Haduco to tap rising demand for offshore support vessels in oil and gas sector █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] Sentral REIT registers lower realised net income of RM17.7m for first quarter KUALA LUMPUR: Sentral REIT Management Sdn Bhd (SRM), the manager of Sentral REIT (Sentral), a listed real estate investment trust, reported that Sentral achieved a realised net income of RM17.7 million for the first quarter of 2023 (Q1’23). This is a decrease of roughly 13.2% from the realised net income of RM20.4 million recorded for the first quarter of 2022 (Q1’22). The lower realised income for the quarter was mainly due to lower realised revenue and occupancy as well as higher finance cost and utility expenses. Correspondingly, Sentral recorded a realised earnings per unit (EPU) and distributable income per unit of 1.65 sen which is about 13.2% lower than the EPU and distributable income per unit of 1.90 sen recorded in Q1’22. SRM chairman Tan Sri Saw Choo Boon said: “The office market environment remains challenging. We will continue to focus on improving our financial performance while navigating macroeconomic uncertainties and rising costs. “We remain firmly committed to delivering sustainable value to our stakeholders through disciplined execution of our ongoing strategies to achieve organic growth across the existing portfolio, while actively exploring accretive investments.” Meanwhile, SRM CEO Derek Teh Wan Wei said that Sentral has about 162,000 sq ft or 10% of its total committed net lettable area due for renewal in 2023, with approximately 42% of these leases due in the first quarter of this year. “Sentral achieved a renewal rate of 99% for these leases due in Q1’23. Correspondingly, Sentral’s average occupancy rate as at March 31 was maintained at 77% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022. In line with our ongoing tenant retention strategies, we have initiated early renewal negotiations for some leases due in the remaining quarters of 2023. “We have also intensified marketing efforts to lease out the current vacant spaces within the portfolio with the view of improving the portfolio occupancy rate this year,” he added. In terms of capital management, Teh said Sentral’s debt maturity profile remains well-spread with no debt expiring this year. He added that Sentral’s average cost of debt increased to 4.44% p.a. from 3.62% p.a. in the previous quarter due to the full impact of the increase in the overnight policy rate from 1.75% to 2.75% in 2022. Synergy, an oil and gas (O&G) offshore marine service provider will be the majority stakeholder with 51% stake while the remainder will be held by Haduco. Through the JV, RMS Synergy has secured a long term charter of a 60-tonne bollard pull Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessel and will work closely with Haduco to capitalise on the growing demand for OSV by the O&G operators in Malaysia with the sector remaining robust, based on the Petronas Activity Outlook 2023-2025. RMS Synergy CEO Mohamad Asraf Abdul Ghafur said that the combination of expertise and resources will enable the company to provide its customers with the highest level of service and support for its offshore operations. “The JV represents a step forward for both companies, in which it looks forward to working together to achieve its shared goals of expanding our operations and presence in Malaysia,” he added. “With this collaborative partnership, RMS Synergy – as vessel owner and operator – is set to expand our OSV business and offer better marine support services to our clients, while contributing to the country’s maritime industry economy,” said Mohamad Asraf during the signing ceremony between RMS Synergy and Haduco yesterday. During the press conference, he said that for the present moment, the JV will entail just one vessel but added that the company “plans to add on another five” vessels by this year-end or end of next year. He said the company has no plans “at the moment” to expand outside the country other than to focus on its business in Malaysia due to the current vessel shortage in the country, which it hopes to fill. Meanwhile, Haduco president and CEO Tran Quang Hung said the company is currently seeing record high activity in the Malaysia market and vessel owners can expect greater demand for their assets. “This joint-venture represents an important step for us in terms of securing long term business in Malaysia even as we strengthen both countries relationship,” he added. Participation 45.6 26.5 27.9 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 744.4 441.9 436.1 1622.4 Sold RM m 735.4 416.5 470.5 1622.4 Net RM m 9.0 25.4 -34.4 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 SECUR ITIES S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 11/05/2023

10 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 SUNBIZ Local labour demand continues on upward trend in Q1 PETALING JAYA: Labour demand continued an upward trend in the first quarter of 2023 with total jobs recording an increase of 2.7%, surpassing the number during the pre-pandemic period, indicating the country’s gradual economic recovery, bolstered by government’s initiatives such as job placement programmes, wage subsidies and tax incentives, the Department of Statistics Malaysia reported. According to the Chief Statistician Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, labour demand continued to be improving during the first quarter of 2023 with the increase of 233.7 thousand jobs in the economic sector to record 8.81 million jobs (Q1’22: 8.57 million). “For the record, the number of jobs in this quarter was the highest throughout the time series since 2018,” he said in a statement. Similar trend was also observed for the number of filled jobs, which edged up by 2.7% recording 8.61 million jobs in Q1’23 (Q1’22: 8.39 million), likely underpinned by the government’s initiative on easing the foreign workers hiring rules through Foreign Worker Recruitment Relaxation Plan and Illegal Immigrant Recalibration Plan 2.0. “Alongside, the number of job vacancies increased by 4.5% to 192.6 thousand vacancies during this quarter. As for the rate of filled jobs and job vacancies, both rates stood at 97.8% and 2.2% respectively,” said Mohd Uzir. On the filled job situation during the quarter, he said, “All economic sectors recorded a positive growth during this quarter. Manufacturing sector remained to record the highest growth at 3.8%, followed by mining & electrical, electronic, and optical products (33.2 thousand), followed by petroleum, chemical, rubber, and plastic products (20.4 thousand). More jobs creation was posted during this quarter which covered 31.7 thousand jobs to meet the needs of the industry subsequent to Malaysia’s economic recovery. Looking at the disaggregation by skill category, Mohd Uzir said the semi-skilled category accounted for 63.8% of jobs created (20.2 thousand), followed by skilled (27.2%; 8.6 thousand) and low-skilled (9%; 2.9 thousand). Across the economic activity, he added the majority of the jobs created were in the services sector with a share of 50.8% (16.1 thousand) mainly in the wholesale & retail trade sub-sector with 8.7 thousand (27.3%). Marrybrown opens Melbourne outlet, marking its debut in Australia PETALING JAYA: Marrybrown, Malaysia’s largest home-grown halal Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) has made history by opening its first outlet in Melbourne, Australia. The opening was officiated by Domestic Trade and Costs of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub – marking a significant moment for the country as the first Malaysian halal QSR to make its mark in Australia. Marrybrown CEO Datuk Joshua Liew said, “We are thrilled to bring Marrybrown’s unique flavours and hospitality to the Australian market. Our goal has always been to bring joy to people through good food, and we believe that our signature dishes, including our crispy chicken, will be a hit with both the Australian and Malaysian customers. We are committed to providing our customers with a high-quality dining experience, and we look forward to welcoming them to our new location in Melbourne.” Marrybrown’s outlet is situated at Burwood One Shopping Centre. Marrybrown’s success in the Australian market is set to continue with the opening of two new outlets in downtown Melbourne CBD before the end of the year – one of them to be at Melbourne’s prestigious landmark, Crown Casino. The brand is not looking to rest on its laurels anytime soon and is envisioning higher growth in the Australian market by opening 30 more outlets across Australia, spanning across different states in the near future. “As Malaysia’s leading fast-food chain, we’re proud to expand our presence in Australia and showcase the best of Malaysian flavors and its rich culinary heritage on the global stage,” said Joshua. VCI Global applies for dual listing on Upstream KUALA LUMPUR: VCI Global Limited has begun the application process to dual list its shares on Upstream, the revolutionary trading app for digital securities and NFT powered by Horizon Fintex and MERJ Exchange Limited. The planned dual listing on Upstream is designed to provide VCI Global the opportunity to access a global, digitalfirst investor base that can trade using USDC digital currency along with credit, debit, PayPal, and USD, unlocking liquidity and enhancing price discovery while globalising the opportunity to invest in Nasdaq-listed VCI Global. Commenting on the application to list on Upstream, VCI Global chairman and group director Datuk Victor Hoo said, “Building shareholder value and increasing our liquidity is always a high priority for us as a company. We believe a dual listing on Upstream will act as an excellent vehicle to reach an untapped international market of potential new shareholders.” Warisan TC invests in CKD project with China’s GAC KUALA LUMPUR: Warisan TC Holdings Bhd’s wholly owned unit WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA) will collaborate with Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) to develop and distribute completely knocked-down (CKD) vehicles in Malaysia. In a statement yesterday, GAC said the CKD project, in which WTCA will invest in excess of RM60 million, involves the manufacturing of GAC Motor’s new GS3 model and expanding its nationwide presence. “The new CKD GAC Motor GS3 model will have a third-generation 1.5 turbo direct injection engine, 7-speed WDCT transmission, and a segment-leading torque of 270Nm @1400~4500rpm,” it said. This is the first CKD project for GAC in Asean and it was announced approximately 18 months after WTCA and GAC International signed a distributorship agreement appointing WTCA as the sole and exclusive distributor of GAC vehicles in Malaysia. Part of this RM60 million investment will be used for model-specific investments such as tools and facility upgrades in Tan Chong’s Segambut facility to meet the new CKD model local assembly and GAC standards requirement, it said. Warisan TC CEO Tan Keng Meng said the company is confident that with its years of experience and armed with an investment of more than RM60 million in its facility, the company is expected to meet GAC’s high expectations. “Our team has a strong collaboration with the GAC team to ensure that we are able to meet their quality standards. “GAC has set a high standard in the automotive industry as they have dominated China’s JD Power initial quality survey for eight consecutive years,” he said at the official collaborative initiation of the CKD programme in Petaling Jaya yesterday. Meanwhile, GAC Group vice-president and GAC international chairman Yu Jun said the company will expect that with 3-5 years of development, the production and sales will reach 50,000 units in Malaysia. WTCA plans to establish more than 70 showrooms via their own branch setup and dealership appointment nationwide. The first GAC Motor Malaysia flagship showroom will be based in Section 13, Petaling Jaya which is expected to be ready in the third quarter of 2023. – Bernama quarrying (3.4%) and agriculture (2.9%). In terms of composition, a total of 4.53 million filled jobs (52.6%) were concentrated in the services sector, followed by manufacturing (27.0%; 2.32 million) and construction (14.3%; 1.23 million).” From the viewpoint of skill category, he added filled jobs were largely in the semi-skilled category recording 5.39 million jobs or equivalent to 62.6%, followed by skilled category with 2.15 million jobs (24.9%) and low-skilled by 1.08 million jobs (12.5%). On job vacancies by economic activity, Mohd Uzir noted that job vacancies had increased to 192.6 thousand jobs during this quarter, largely in the manufacturing sector which accounted for 107.7 thousand job vacancies (55.9%), primarily in the sub-sector of Heineken Malaysia responsive to challenging environment PETALING JAYA: Heineken Malaysia Bhd remains responsive to the volatile market conditions, emphasising the company’s commitment to taking a long-term view in building a sustainable business. Heineken Malaysia managing director Roland Bala said that it will remain adaptive to the volatile business environment and new market realities. “We take a long term view to build a sustainable business and will continue to focus on delivering our EverGreen strategy to future proof our business,” he said in a statement. With reference to Bank Negara Malaysia’s recent statement on the country’s economic outlook, he said that the group is prepared to contribute towards domestic consumption growth by leveraging Group will also continue with its festive campaigns, promotional and marketing investments as they have played a role in delivering topline growth. – HEINEKEN MALAYSIA CORPORATE IMAGE oGroup takes long-term view on building sustainable business and remains committed and focused on its EverGreen strategy to maintain growth with exciting activities, promotions and giveaways to reward loyal consumers. “We also hosted the St. Patrick’s festival with Guinness Malaysia’s ‘Our Day to Remember’, bringing fans together to celebrate with their loved ones through a series of activations at participating bars and pubs. Our promotional and marketing investments have played a role in delivering top-line growth,” he said. Announcing its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, Heineken Malaysia reported revenue growth amidst increasing cost pressures, shifting consumer patterns, as well as a shorter sell-in period for Chinese New Year 2023. During the first quarter, group revenue grew by 6% to RM740.2 million compared to the same quarter in 2022, driven by better sales mix as the group’s premium portfolio grew, led by Heineken®, as well as price increase as a result of inflationary pressure on cost. Group profit before tax declined by 7% to RM144.6 million as compared to the same quarter last year, primarily due to the relatively higher promotional and marketing expenses as the group continued to invest behind its brands. Comparatively, the marketing spend in Q1’22 was lower as the group was still recovering from the impact of the pandemic. The group also said that it welcomes the stance taken by the government not to increase excise duties on beers in its Budget 2023, as any hike in excise rates will drive greater demand for illicit alcohol. the expected improvement in tourism, labour market conditions, and government policy measures to bolster their business performance. “At the same time, we are staying vigilant against potential headwinds due to global demand volatility. We remain committed and focused on our EverGreen strategy. We are proud of our One Strong Winning Team’s agility and resilience in navigating the challenging business environment, whilst we continue investing behind our brands with a consumer-first approach,” said Roland. He added that the group has stepped up its commercial activations this quarter (Q1’23), kicking off the year with “Cheers to Bold Beginnings” Chinese New Year campaign led by Tiger Beer – celebrating moments of reflections, welcoming the Year of the Rabbit

11 * SUNBIZ @thesundaily theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Bank Bhd displayed resilience and delivered a commendable performance in the financial year ended Dec 31, 2022 (FY22) with a record net profit of RM2.71 billion, a 3.4% increase from the previous year, RHB Banking Group chairman Tan Sri Ahmad Badri Mohd Zahir said yesterday. At the banking group’s 57th AGM, which was conducted virtually, shareholders approved all nine ordinary resolutions tabled, including the re-election of Tan Sri Ong Leong Huat, Ong Ai Lin, Datuk Mohamad Nasir Ab Latif and Donald Joshua Jaganathan as members of its board of directors. Ahmad Badri said, “On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to extend my utmost appreciation to all our shareholders for their continued trust, loyalty and confidence in the group. FY2022 was a year of recovery for most economies and the group had stayed on course in delivering value to our shareholders, customers, employees and all other stakeholders, demonstrating resilience and delivering a commendable performance.” He added, “Our growth momentum and fundamentals remain strong as reflected by credit rating upgrades, where RHB was upgraded to AA1 by RAM Ratings, as well as achieving a Baseline Credit Assessment upgrade to baa1 by Moody’s Investor Services. “In addition, the successful launch of our Together We Progress 24 (TWP24) strategy has reinforced our focus on achieving quality growth and driving service excellence across all our delivery channels, supported by our robust digital propositions.” Ahmad Badri said he was pleased to share that RHB Banking Group has declared a second interim dividend of 25 sen per share, consisting of cash payout of 20 sen per share and an electable portion under the Dividend Reinvestment Plan of 5 sen per share. “Together with our first interim dividend of 15 sen per share, total dividend for FY2022 amounts to 40 sen per share or 62.5% payout ratio, translating into a dividend yield of 6.9%,” he added. Ahmad Badri said RHB continuously put in place various initiatives towards creating even greater customer experience and this positively impacted its Net Promoter Score, achieving third highest in Malaysian banking industry with a score of +12. “We have also intensified our efforts in accelerating the adoption of sustainable practices amongst our customers, employees and other key stakeholders,” he added. As at December 2022, he said, RHB achieved more than RM12 billion in sustainable financial services, which exceeded its target for the year by more than 40%. Moving ahead, Ahmad Badri said the group will stay the course in executing its TWP24 strategy and put further emphasis on realising the benefits, focusing on achieving quality growth, driving service excellence and improving efficiency across their business and operations. Petronas Gas delivers healthy dividend payout amid challenging external factors KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas Gas Bhd (PGB) remained resilient in financial year 2022 (FY22), achieving a profit after tax (PAT) of RM1.76 billion and declared total dividends of 72 sen per share for the year, maintaining a healthy payout ratio of 87% compared with 81.6% in 2021. At PGB’s virtual 40th annual general meeting (AGM) yesterday, chairman Adnan Zainal Abidin acknowledged the group’s resilience in facing a challenging external environment, which saw higher fuel gas price and unfavourable foreign exchange movements. “To mitigate the increasing operating costs from higher fuel gas prices and volatile currency fluctuations, we increased our focus on cost discipline and optimisation measures, while strengthening our operational efficiencies – all of which are to ensure that we operate safely, reliably and efficiently,” he said. PGB managing director and CEO Abdul Aziz Othman highlighted that continuous efforts to ensure a safe working environment as well as commitment to deliver and maintain operational excellence at world class level form the foundation to pursue growth opportunities to diversify the group’s business portfolio. He said PGB’s new strategic agenda drives focus in seizing identified growth opportunities, backed by strong operational excellence, commercial excellence and project excellence to ensure the group is robust, fundamentally resilient and sustainable, and that can respond quickly to operational and marketplace challenges. “As the owner of the nation’s integrated gas infrastructure and utilities facilities, PGB remains committed to ensure all our assets are available, reliable, and operating at their optimum. On growing the business, we continued to make good strides forward on identified projects, bringing some to completion as per plan and concurrently identifying potential opportunities. In 2023, PGB will continue to navigate our way to deliver gas solutions in a responsible and sustainable manner, while progressing on growth opportunities,” Abdul Aziz added. PETALING JAYA: Reneuco Bhd (formerly known as KPower Bhd), through wholly owned subsidiary Reneuco RE Sdn Bhd, has entered into a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak’s (PKNPk) wholly owned indirect subsidiary Pengurusan Murni Sdn Bhd (PMSB) and Aero Line Facilities & Engineering Services Sdn Bhd (ALFES) to collaborate and venture into the green energy business in Perak. RenRE and/or ALFES will undertake the supply of smart solar LED lighting to PMSB with the main objective to further green energy technology usage in Perak as well as other states. State-wide installation of smart solar LED street lighting began in February 2023 with Perak Techno-Trade Centre Complex being the pioneer for the initiative. Reneuco executive chairman Datuk Mustakim Mat Nun commented, “Moving forward, we hope to participate in more initiatives such as this as we are in good stead to assist the government agencies to further their green energy agenda be it through project management consultancy or supply of green energy technology and products.” To further promote the usage of green energy technology throughout the state, the parties intend to explore other synergistic collaborations in the green energy business and technologies. At the same time, they will also undertake joint research projects from time to time that will advance the ‘Perak Bumi Lestari’ agenda. 37 Malaysian firms participate in HK food and hospitality trade expo KUALA LUMPUR: Thirty-seven Malaysian companies are taking part in the three-day Hong Kong’s Food and Hospitality Exhibition (Hofex) 2023, which started on Wednesday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event features more than 1,200 international brands as well as over 25,000 buyers. Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) said the companies are showcasing various food products, ranging from health and functional food, ready-to-eat and ready-to-drink products, sauces and pastes, food ingredients, durian and durianbased products as well as bird’s nest products. In a statement yesterday, it said the number of companies participating in Hofex showed Malaysian brands’ strong interest to leverage the exhibition as a platform to access markets such as Hong Kong, China and Northeast Asia. Matrade said that 95% of products in Hong Kong’s food and beverage (F&B) market were imported, noting that the city is also a major trading hub for re-exporting goods into China, Macao and other surrounding markets in Asia. “There is also a growing interest in halal F&B in the market due to its clean and safe concept,” it said. Matrade, through its office in Hong Kong will link potential local importers and distributors to source products from the participating Malaysian exhibitors. Reneuco inks MoA for green energy venture in Perak RHB’s growth momentum, fundamentals remain strong KUALA LUMPUR: Analysts are maintaining their neutral stance on the plantation sector with a full-year crude palm oil (CPO) price forecast of RM3,800 per tonne. In a research note yesterday, Public Investment Bank Bhd (PIVB) said despite seeing a dip in palm oil exports, inventories shrank to the lowest level in more than a year as production surprisingly posted a decline due to shorter harvesting days due to festive celebrations. At the point of writing, CPO futures retraced by RM82 to RM3,725 per tonne, it said. “Despite the potential impact of the El Nino weather pattern on production, we are not seeing CPO prices increasing in the near term in view of Indonesia’s plan to flush out three million tonnes of CPO while demand for biodiesel remains muted due to unfavourable palm oil-gasoline spread,” PIVB said. As for Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB), it maintained 2023-2024 CPO price assumptions of RM4,000 and RM3,800 per tonne for now. “The neutral rating on the sector is given due to the absence of notable earnings growth catalyst. “While Indonesia’s recent move to relax its palm oil export quota (from 1:6 to 1:4, effective May 1, 2023) will ease palm’s nearterm supply pressure, this will likely be offset by the potential return of El Nino phenomenon by the second half of 2023,” it said. Kenanga Research said it is staying neutral on the plantation industry as earnings are still bottoming even as the landscape is stabilising with palm oil prices trading range bound, cost inflation beginning to plateau and fresh fruit bunches production is seen inching upwards. “Poor quarterly earnings are still likely due to strong prices last year. However, low priceto-book value ratio ratings suggest that much of the bad news is already priced in with cost looking toppish and output to improve. “The only missing ingredient is a strong rebound in selling prices, hence our neutral view,” it added. – Bernama Analysts stick to neutral view on plantation sector o Group puts up commendable performance in FY22 with record RM2.71b net profit RHB Bank managing director/group CEO Mohd Rashid Mohamad (left) and Ahmad Badri at the virtual AGM yesterday.

12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 SUNBIZ China economy may require more stimulus oConsumer inflation eases further, producer deflation deepens, new bank loans tumble BEIJING: China’s consumer prices rose at the slowest pace in more than two years in April, while factory gate deflation deepened, data showed yesterday, suggesting more stimulus may be needed to boost a patchy post-Covid economic recovery. Meanwhile, new Chinese bank loans tumbled far more sharply than expected in April, adding to worries that the economy’s postpandemic recovery is losing steam and putting pressure on the central bank to ease policy. Chinese banks extended 718.8 billion yuan (RM462.4 billion) in new yuan loans in April, less than a fifth of March’s tally and just over half of the amount expected by analysts, data from the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) showed yesterday. “China’s credit data came in well below estimates, reinforcing the concerns over the sustainability of post-Covid recovery,” said Zhou Hao, economist at Guotai Junan International. “Both aggregate financing and new loans were only half of the market expectations, suggesting that the first wave of post-Covid DUBAI: Emirates Group announced a record US$3 billion (RM13.3 billion) annual profit yesterday, hailing a “full recovery” for the Dubai-based carrier after last year’s losses due to the pandemic. “We’re proud of our 2022-23 performance which is not only a full recovery but also a record result,” Emirates chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum (pic) said in a statement. The Emirates airline business alone banked US$2.9 billion, another record, after returning a US$1.1 billion loss in the previous financial year as passengers began to return to the skies. The Middle East’s biggest airline had posted a US$5.5 billion loss for Covid-ravaged 2020-2021, its first in more than three decades, after grounding its fleet and making heavy lay-offs. Emirates Group, which reported a US$1 billion loss last year, ended 2022-2023 with its highest ever cash balance of US$11.6 billion. The group declared a dividend of US$1.2 billion to its owner, the Investment Corporation of Dubai sovereign wealth fund, and repaid US$817 million of debt raised during the Covid crisis. “We had anticipated the strong return of travel and, as the last travel restrictions lifted and triggered a tide of demand, we were ready to expand our operations quickly and safely to serve our customers,” Sheikh Ahmed said. Separately, Emirates announced a US$200 million investment in research and development to reduce the impact of fossil fuels in aviation. “It’s clear that with the current pathways available to airlines in terms of emissions reduction, our industry won’t be able to hit net zero targets in the prescribed timeline,” company president Tim Clark said in a statement. “We believe our industry needs better solutions.” – AFP B R I E F SHYUNDAI MOTOR TO STEP UP INVESTMENT IN INDIAN STATE CHENNAI: South Korea’s Hyundai Motor Co said yesterday it will invest 200 billion rupees (RM10.8 billion) in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu over the next 10 years to beef up electric vehicle production in the world’s most populous country. Hyundai, through its Indian subsidiary Hyundai Motor India, will also set up a battery pack assembly unit with an annual capacity of 178,000 units and install 100 EV charging stations across the southern state in the next five years, it said in a statement. – Reuters CHINA’S GEM TO BUILD US$500M JOINT NICKEL PROJECT IN INDONESIA BEIJING: China’s GEM Co Ltd, a battery and material recycler, announced yesterday a US$500 million (RM2.23 billion) joint investment to build a nickel project in Indonesia. The project, sited in Indonesia Morowali Industrial Park, will produce 20,000 tonnes per year of nickel intermediate product used in the new energy sector. GEM (Wuxi) Energy Materials, wholly owned by GEM, holds a 51% share of the project, Singapore-based Cahaya Jaya Investment Pte Ltd holds a 26% share, and Weiming (Hong Kong) International Holdings Ltd an 18% share. – Reuters PHILIPPINE GDP GROWTH SLOWS AS INFLATION BITES MANILA: The Philippines’ economy grew more than expected in the first three months of the year, official data showed yesterday, though the pace was the slowest in two years as soaring inflation and interest rate increases crimped consumer spending. The 6.4% expansion in the first three months was well down from the revised 7.1% enjoyed in the last quarter of 2022, which analysts said could give the country’s central bank some room to step back from its monetary tightening drive. Forecasts were for 6.2% growth. – AFP recovery has more or less faded.” The weak consumer price rise reinforces the signals from this week’s trade data suggesting domestic demand remains lacklustre, while the deflationary impulse in producer prices underlines the strains on factories – a double-whammy for the world’s second-biggest economy as it tries to shake off the pandemic-induced damage. The consumer price index (CPI) in April rose 0.1% year-onyear, the lowest rate since February 2021, and cooling from the 0.7% annual gain seen in March, the National Bureau of Statistics said. Producer deflation also deepened last month, which taken together with the CPI data, highlights the broader economy’s struggles to rev-up after the lifting of Covid curbs in December. The producer price index (PPI) fell at the fastest clip since May 2020 and was down for a seventh consecutive month, declining 3.6% year-on-year after a 2.5% drop the previous month. That compared with a forecast for a 3.2% fall. The latest data could raise pressure on the PBOC to cut rates or release more liquidity into the financial system. It cut lenders’ reserve requirements ratio for the first time this year in March. Overall inflationary pressures remain low with the core consumer inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, up 0.7%, unchanged from the previous month. The statistics bureau attributed the weaker consumer inflation to the base effect. – Reuters Emirates Group unveils record US$3b annual profit TOKYO: Nissan said yesterday its fullyear net profit slightly topped estimates and offered an upbeat forecast for the current fiscal year, despite warning of “challenging” conditions ahead. The Japanese automaker said it logged net profit of ¥221 billion (RM7.3 billion) for the year to March 2023, just beating its prediction of ¥220 billion, and projected ¥315 billion for the coming year. The company said the gains were the result of sales improvements and costcutting, as well as favourable foreign exchange rate fluctuations. These helped offset the effects of an increase in raw material prices and inflation. “The prolonged shortage of semiconductors and tight supply of parts due to the shutdown in China had a sizeable impact on production plans and vehicle supply,” it said. But while crises such as the global semiconductor crunch are yet to be fully resolved, there is a reason to be cautiously optimistic about Nissan’s business in China for the year ahead, said president and CEO Makoto Uchida. Separately, Japan’s Honda Motor Co yesterday forecast a 19.1% rise in operating profit for this business year, after it missed analysts’ estimates in the fourth quarter. Japan’s second-biggest automaker forecast full-year operating profit rising to ¥1 trillion compared with a ¥985.62 billion average profit expected by 21 analysts. It said it expected higher sales volume and to benefit from a strengthening supply chain. Operating profit for the three months to March 31 stood at ¥105.5 billion, compared to an average estimate of ¥164.78 billion in a poll by 11 analysts by Refinitiv. – Reuters Nissan full-year results beat estimates, offers bullish forecast

13 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF UPAYA SERENTAK SDN BHD Registration No.: 199901015279 (490179-H) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, a Final Meeting of the Members of Upaya Serentak Sdn Bhd will be held at the Liquidators’ office at No. 1 Jalan Lasam, 30350 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Thursday, 15 June 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: AGENDA 1. To receive and adopt the account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. CHEAI WENG HOONG Liquidator Date: 12 May 2023 Note: A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote instead of him. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at No. 1 Jalan Lasam, 30350 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TAT SING HOLDINGS SDN BHD (198201000482 (80226-X)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) At a General Meeting of the members of abovenamed Company held on 9 May 2023, the following special resolutions were duly passed:- 1. THAT the Company be liquidated by way of members’ voluntary winding up and that Wong Chee Keong of 66 Jalan Hujan Rahmat 2, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of the winding up. 2. THAT the said Liquidator be authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind amongst the contributories of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. 3. THAT the said Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by him in the execution and discharge of his duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. WONG CHEE KEONG Director Date: 12 May 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TAT SING HOLDINGS SDN BHD (198201000482 (80226-X)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 15 June 2023 to send in their names and addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims and their names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned at 66 Jalan Hujan Rahmat 2, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur, the liquidator of the said Company, and, if so required in writing from the said liquidator, are by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove the 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 are proved. WONG CHEE KEONG Liquidator Date: 12 May 2023 NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BENTARA DERMAGA SDN. BHD. (Company No. 200101026895 (562653-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Members of Bentara Dermaga Sdn. Bhd., duly convened and held at No. 1062, Mukim 6, Jalan Perusahaan, Kawasan Perusahaan Perai, 13600 Perai, Pulau Pinang on 8th May 2023, the special resolutions set out below was duly passed. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Mr. Neoh Chin Wah of Insol-i Corporate Recovery PLT, 3rd Floor, Acctax Corporate Centre, No. 2, Jalan Bawasah, 10050 Georgetown, Penang be appointed as Liquidator to act for the purpose of the winding-up. Dated this 12th May 2023 ............Sgd.......... Lee Hean Huat Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BENTARA DERMAGA SDN. BHD. (Company No. 200101026895 (562653-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the abovenamed Company are required on or before 12th June 2023 to prove their debts or claims and to establish any title they may have to priority by delivering or sending through the post to the Liquidator at the undermentioned address and affidavit verifying their respective debts or claims. In default they will be excluded from the benefit of priority, if any, and from objecting to any such distribution. Form of proof may be obtained from the Liquidator at the address shown below. Dated this 12th May 2023 ............Sgd.......... Neoh Chin Wah, Liquidator c/o Insol-i Corporate Recovery PLT 3rd Floor Acctax Corporate Centre No. 2, Jalan Bawasah 10050 Georgetown Penang DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KAJANG DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: BH-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 ANTARA TENAGA NASIONAL BERHAD [No. Syarikat : 199001009294 (200866-W)] …PLAINTIF DAN ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P. : 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] …DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN Kepada, ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P.: 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] No. 10, Jalan 12/3 Fasa 4, Taman Cheras Jaya Balakong Batu 11 43200 Cheras Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dan/atau ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P.: 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] No. 10, Jalan CJ 12/3 Taman Cheras Jaya 43200 Cheras Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dalam perkara Writ yang dikeluarkan pada 2 haribulan Mac 2023. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Writ telah dikeluarkan terhadap Defendan dalam Mahkamah Majistret di Kajang dalam Guaman No. BH-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 oleh Tenaga Nasional Berhad [No. Syarikat: 199001009294] (200866-W)] di mana tuntutan Plaintif ialah untuk jumlah RM15,695.77, faedah ke atas jumlah RM15,695.77 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh pemfailan saman sehingga tarikh penghakiman, faedah ke atas jumlah RM15,695.77 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh penghakiman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian penuh dan kos dan adalah diperintahkan bahawa sesalinan Writ bertarikh 2/3/2023 dan Penyata Tuntutan bertarikh 2/3/2023 disampaikan kepada kamu melalui Penyampaian Ganti iaitu dengan menampalkan sesalinan Writ dan Penyata Tuntutan tersebut di Papan Notis Mahkamah Kajang, ditinggalkan di alamat pertama Defendan di No. 10, Jalan 12/3, Fasa 4, Taman Cheras Jaya, Balakong Batu 11, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat pertama Defendan”) dan di alamat kedua Defendan di No. 10, Jalan CJ 12/3, Taman Cheras Jaya, 43200 Cheras Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat kedua Defendan”) dan mengiklankannya sekali (1) dalam surat khabar tempatan ‘The Sun’ dan saya percaya bahawa penyampaian itu menjadi penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup ke atas Defendan tersebut empatbelas (14) hari selepas dari tarikh pengiklanan atau penampalan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhajat untuk membuat pembelaan terhadap tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah diwakili oleh Peguambela kamu di hadapan Mahkamah Majistret Kajang pada 6/6/2023 (secara E-Review), jam 9.00 pagi. Sekiranya kamu gagal berbuat demikian maka Penghakiman Ingkar boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 12 haribulan Mei 2023 …..….………tt…….…….. Tetuan Sandosh Anandan Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Notis Penyampaian Ganti Bentuk Iklan ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Sandosh Anandan, Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di Unit A502, Blok A, Kelana Square, No. 17, Jalan SS7/26, Kelana Jaya, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel: 03-78065819 / 03-7804607 Fax: 03-78807409 (Ruj: SA/L/TNB/ZULKIFILEE/1871/2023/SA) 322 Notices NOTICE OF REDUCTION OF SHARE CAPITAL IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SPIND DEVELOPMENT SDN. BHD. [SSM No. 201201011120 (984640-M)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 117 (1) of the Companies Act 2016 that the members of SPIND DEVELOPMENT SDN BHD have passed a Special Resolution on 8th May 2023 to reduce the issued and paid up share capital from RM2,901,000- 00 divided into 2,901,000 ordinary shares to RM2,000,000-00 divided into 2,000,000 ordinary shares by effecting a capital repayment of RM901,000.00 in cash to the shareholders being capital in excess of the needs of the Company as well as a cancellation of 901,000 ordinary shares. Yap Sue Foong Director Date: 12 May 2023 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI DI MALAYA DI SEREMBAN DALAM NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS, MALAYSIA (BAHAGIAN KELUARGA) PETISYEN PERCERAIAN NO: NA-33-6-01/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 53, 54 (1)(b), 88, 89, 92, 93 dan Seksyen 106 Akta Membaharui Undang-Undang (Perkahwinan dan Perceraian) 1976; ANTARA UDHAYA A/P SELVARAJOO (No. K/P: 890603-05-5172) … PEMPETISYEN DAN VIKNESHWARAN A/L BALASUNDRAN (No. K/P: 810924-14-6099) … RESPONDEN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Kepada: VIKNESHWARAN A/L BALASUNDRAN (No. K/P: 810924-14-6099) No. 28, USJ 9/3C, USJ 9, 47630 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban dalam Petisyen Perceraian No: NA-33- 6-01/2023 DAN penyampaian Petisyen Perceraian dan kertas-kertas kausa berkaitan tindakan ini dilaksanakan melalui penyampaian ganti iaitu melalui PENGIKLANAN ini didalam 2 akhbar tempatan, email Responden, pesanan ringkas WhatsApp Responden, PENAMPALAN satu salinan dokumen tersebut di Papan Kenyataan Mahkamah Tinggi Seremban dan PENAMPALAN di alamat terakhir Responden menurut Perintah Mahkamah bertarikh 11 April 2023. Penyampaian Ganti ini akan dianggap penyampaian yang sempurna dan mencukupi 14 hari dari hari terakhir penyampaian tersebut dilakukan DAN AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa kamu dikehendaki hadir ke Mahkamah untuk prosiding ini telah ditetapkan untuk PENGURUSAN KES pada 18 Mei, 2023 pada pukul 9.00 pagi dan kamu dikehendaki hadir di Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban, Negeri Sembilan pada tarikh dan masa yang telah ditetapkan TANPA GAGAL. Petisyen Perceraian dan kertas- kertas kausa bagi tindakan ini boleh diperiksa oleh kamu atas permintaan di Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus. Bertarikh pada 11 haribulan April, 2023 -T.TPEGUAMCARA PEMPETISYEN Notis Pengiklanan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan R. J. Malar, Bhama & Partners peguamcara Pempetisyen yang beralamat di No. 1187, Jalan Hijayu 3/44, Hijayu 3D, 71950 Bandar Seri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan. No Tel : 011-55553805 No Fax: 06-7921730 Email : [email protected] No. Fail : MB/1106/March-2022/DivUdhaya IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ASCENTION SDN BHD Registration No. 201001009027 (893655-A) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016, the Final Meeting of Members of the Company will be held at 51-21-A Menara BHL Bank, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 George Town, Penang on Thursday, 15th June 2023 at 10.00 a.m. AGENDA 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and the property disposed of and of hearing any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine by ordinary resolution the manner and period in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be destroyed. Dated this 12th May 2023 LEE PENG LOON Liquidator 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF UPAYA SERENTAK SDN BHD Registration No.: 199901015279 (490179-H) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) Notice is hereby given that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, a Final Meeting of the Members of Upaya Serentak Sdn Bhd will be held at the Liquidators’ office at No. 1 Jalan Lasam, 30350 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Thursday, 15 June 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: AGENDA 1. To receive and adopt the account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. CHEAI WENG HOONG Liquidator Date: 12 May 2023 Note: A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote instead of him. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at No. 1 Jalan Lasam, 30350 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TAT SING HOLDINGS SDN BHD (198201000482 (80226-X)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) At a General Meeting of the members of abovenamed Company held on 9 May 2023, the following special resolutions were duly passed:- 1. THAT the Company be liquidated by way of members’ voluntary winding up and that Wong Chee Keong of 66 Jalan Hujan Rahmat 2, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of the winding up. 2. THAT the said Liquidator be authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind amongst the contributories of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interests therein. 3. THAT the said Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by him in the execution and discharge of his duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. WONG CHEE KEONG Director Date: 12 May 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TAT SING HOLDINGS SDN BHD (198201000482 (80226-X)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the abovementioned Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 15 June 2023 to send in their names and addresses and the particulars of their debts or claims and their names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned at 66 Jalan Hujan Rahmat 2, Taman Overseas Union, 58200 Kuala Lumpur, the liquidator of the said Company, and, if so required in writing from the said liquidator, are by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove the 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 are proved. WONG CHEE KEONG Liquidator Date: 12 May 2023 NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BENTARA DERMAGA SDN. BHD. (Company No. 200101026895 (562653-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Members of Bentara Dermaga Sdn. Bhd., duly convened and held at No. 1062, Mukim 6, Jalan Perusahaan, Kawasan Perusahaan Perai, 13600 Perai, Pulau Pinang on 8th May 2023, the special resolutions set out below was duly passed. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Mr. Neoh Chin Wah of Insol-i Corporate Recovery PLT, 3rd Floor, Acctax Corporate Centre, No. 2, Jalan Bawasah, 10050 Georgetown, Penang be appointed as Liquidator to act for the purpose of the winding-up. Dated this 12th May 2023 ............Sgd.......... Lee Hean Huat Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BENTARA DERMAGA SDN. BHD. (Company No. 200101026895 (562653-V)) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the abovenamed Company are required on or before 12th June 2023 to prove their debts or claims and to establish any title they may have to priority by delivering or sending through the post to the Liquidator at the undermentioned address and affidavit verifying their respective debts or claims. In default they will be excluded from the benefit of priority, if any, and from objecting to any such distribution. Form of proof may be obtained from the Liquidator at the address shown below. Dated this 12th May 2023 ............Sgd.......... Neoh Chin Wah, Liquidator c/o Insol-i Corporate Recovery PLT 3rd Floor Acctax Corporate Centre No. 2, Jalan Bawasah 10050 Georgetown Penang DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KAJANG DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: BH-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 ANTARA TENAGA NASIONAL BERHAD [No. Syarikat : 199001009294 (200866-W)] …PLAINTIF DAN ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P. : 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] …DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN Kepada, ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P.: 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] No. 10, Jalan 12/3 Fasa 4, Taman Cheras Jaya Balakong Batu 11 43200 Cheras Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dan/atau ZULKIFILEE AMIN BIN YUSOFF [NO. K. P.: 650112-03-5465 (A0222866)] No. 10, Jalan CJ 12/3 Taman Cheras Jaya 43200 Cheras Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dalam perkara Writ yang dikeluarkan pada 2 haribulan Mac 2023. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Writ telah dikeluarkan terhadap Defendan dalam Mahkamah Majistret di Kajang dalam Guaman No. BH-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 oleh Tenaga Nasional Berhad [No. Syarikat: 199001009294] (200866-W)] di mana tuntutan Plaintif ialah untuk jumlah RM15,695.77, faedah ke atas jumlah RM15,695.77 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh pemfailan saman sehingga tarikh penghakiman, faedah ke atas jumlah RM15,695.77 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh penghakiman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian penuh dan kos dan adalah diperintahkan bahawa sesalinan Writ bertarikh 2/3/2023 dan Penyata Tuntutan bertarikh 2/3/2023 disampaikan kepada kamu melalui Penyampaian Ganti iaitu dengan menampalkan sesalinan Writ dan Penyata Tuntutan tersebut di Papan Notis Mahkamah Kajang, ditinggalkan di alamat pertama Defendan di No. 10, Jalan 12/3, Fasa 4, Taman Cheras Jaya, Balakong Batu 11, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat pertama Defendan”) dan di alamat kedua Defendan di No. 10, Jalan CJ 12/3, Taman Cheras Jaya, 43200 Cheras Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat kedua Defendan”) dan mengiklankannya sekali (1) dalam surat khabar tempatan ‘The Sun’ dan saya percaya bahawa penyampaian itu menjadi penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup ke atas Defendan tersebut empatbelas (14) hari selepas dari tarikh pengiklanan atau penampalan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhajat untuk membuat pembelaan terhadap tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah diwakili oleh Peguambela kamu di hadapan Mahkamah Majistret Kajang pada 6/6/2023 (secara E-Review), jam 9.00 pagi. Sekiranya kamu gagal berbuat demikian maka Penghakiman Ingkar boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 12 haribulan Mei 2023 …..….………tt…….…….. Tetuan Sandosh Anandan Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Notis Penyampaian Ganti Bentuk Iklan ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Sandosh Anandan, Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di Unit A502, Blok A, Kelana Square, No. 17, Jalan SS7/26, Kelana Jaya, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel: 03-78065819 / 03-7804607 Fax: 03-78807409 (Ruj: SA/L/TNB/ZULKIFILEE/1871/2023/SA) 322 Notices NOTICE OF REDUCTION OF SHARE CAPITAL IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SPIND DEVELOPMENT SDN. BHD. [SSM No. 201201011120 (984640-M)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 117 (1) of the Companies Act 2016 that the members of SPIND DEVELOPMENT SDN BHD have passed a Special Resolution on 8th May 2023 to reduce the issued and paid up share capital from RM2,901,000- 00 divided into 2,901,000 ordinary shares to RM2,000,000-00 divided into 2,000,000 ordinary shares by effecting a capital repayment of RM901,000.00 in cash to the shareholders being capital in excess of the needs of the Company as well as a cancellation of 901,000 ordinary shares. Yap Sue Foong Director Date: 12 May 2023 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI DI MALAYA DI SEREMBAN DALAM NEGERI SEMBILAN DARUL KHUSUS, MALAYSIA (BAHAGIAN KELUARGA) PETISYEN PERCERAIAN NO: NA-33-6-01/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 53, 54 (1)(b), 88, 89, 92, 93 dan Seksyen 106 Akta Membaharui Undang-Undang (Perkahwinan dan Perceraian) 1976; ANTARA UDHAYA A/P SELVARAJOO (No. K/P: 890603-05-5172) … PEMPETISYEN DAN VIKNESHWARAN A/L BALASUNDRAN (No. K/P: 810924-14-6099) … RESPONDEN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Kepada: VIKNESHWARAN A/L BALASUNDRAN (No. K/P: 810924-14-6099) No. 28, USJ 9/3C, USJ 9, 47630 Subang Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban dalam Petisyen Perceraian No: NA-33- 6-01/2023 DAN penyampaian Petisyen Perceraian dan kertas-kertas kausa berkaitan tindakan ini dilaksanakan melalui penyampaian ganti iaitu melalui PENGIKLANAN ini didalam 2 akhbar tempatan, email Responden, pesanan ringkas WhatsApp Responden, PENAMPALAN satu salinan dokumen tersebut di Papan Kenyataan Mahkamah Tinggi Seremban dan PENAMPALAN di alamat terakhir Responden menurut Perintah Mahkamah bertarikh 11 April 2023. Penyampaian Ganti ini akan dianggap penyampaian yang sempurna dan mencukupi 14 hari dari hari terakhir penyampaian tersebut dilakukan DAN AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa kamu dikehendaki hadir ke Mahkamah untuk prosiding ini telah ditetapkan untuk PENGURUSAN KES pada 18 Mei, 2023 pada pukul 9.00 pagi dan kamu dikehendaki hadir di Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban, Negeri Sembilan pada tarikh dan masa yang telah ditetapkan TANPA GAGAL. Petisyen Perceraian dan kertas- kertas kausa bagi tindakan ini boleh diperiksa oleh kamu atas permintaan di Mahkamah Tinggi di Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus. Bertarikh pada 11 haribulan April, 2023 -T.TPEGUAMCARA PEMPETISYEN Notis Pengiklanan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan R. J. Malar, Bhama & Partners peguamcara Pempetisyen yang beralamat di No. 1187, Jalan Hijayu 3/44, Hijayu 3D, 71950 Bandar Seri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan. No Tel : 011-55553805 No Fax: 06-7921730 Email : [email protected] No. Fail : MB/1106/March-2022/DivUdhaya IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF ASCENTION SDN BHD Registration No. 201001009027 (893655-A) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016, the Final Meeting of Members of the Company will be held at 51-21-A Menara BHL Bank, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 George Town, Penang on Thursday, 15th June 2023 at 10.00 a.m. AGENDA 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and the property disposed of and of hearing any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine by ordinary resolution the manner and period in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be destroyed. Dated this 12th May 2023 LEE PENG LOON Liquidator 322 Notices 322 Notices Gunning for No. 1 S COTTIE SCHEFFLER has been working hard on the one weak link in his game as he bids to win a third PGA Tour title this season. Scheffler, who can reclaim the world No. 1 ranking from Jon Rahm with victory in the AT&T Byron Nelson, defended his title in February’s WM Phoenix Open and also claimed the prestigious Players Championship at Sawgrass. And the former Masters champion did so despite ranking just 89th in total putting on the PGA Tour, a stark contrast to leading the categories for strokes gained off the tee and tee to green, as well as greens in regulation. “I just feel like I’ve seen a lot of putts that I’ve really thought were going to go in that haven’t,” Scheffler told a pre-tournament press conference at TPC Craig Ranch. “I’m usually pretty dangerous when my putter gets hot, so I’ve been working on it pretty good. Yeah, just hoping to see some putts go in. Instead of lipping out, maybe lipping in.” Scheffler made his PGA Tour debut in what was then called the HP Byron Nelson Championship as a 17-year-old amateur in 2014, recording a hole-in-one during the third round and eventually finishing in a tie for 22nd. Nine years later he is the star attraction and the only member of the world’s top 15 in the field following the injury withdrawal of Jordan Spieth. “It’s definitely a bit different than when I came here in high school,” Scheffler added. “I feel like I’m a little bit more a part of this thing than I was then, but I was just fortunate to get a spot and come out and play. “Now I guess coming full circle out here is a little different scenario and it’s a lot of fun being able to play in front of the home crowd. “Now that I’ve had some success out here on Tour, there’s a lot more people that will show up to watch me, which is great. “I’m fortunate to be able to come out here and support an event that supported me from a young age, and I’m looking forward to going out there and playing in front of the home crowd and hopefully making some birdies.” – The Independent ‘Don’t make me run’ Dhoni stars for CSK A LATE cameo by skipper MS Dhoni and disciplined bowling helped Chennai Super Kings edge closer to an IPL playoff berth with a 27-run win over Delhi Capitals yesterday. Dhoni, who hit a nine-ball 20, put on a key seventh-wicket stand of 38 with Ravindra Jadeja, who hit 21, to steer Chennai to 167-8. “This is what my job is, I have told them this is what I am supposed to do, don’t make me run a lot and it has been working,” Dhoni said of his role at No. 8. “This is what I need to do, happy to contribute.” Sri Lankan quick Matheesha Pathirana took three wickets to help limit Delhi to 140-8 as Chennai consolidated their second spot in the 10-team table with seven wins in 12 matches. The David Warner-led Delhi, who started the season with five losses, remain rooted to the bottom of the standings and all but out of the playoff race. The top four teams qualify for the playoffs. Delhi began the chase with left-handed Warner out for a duck on the second ball to Deepak Chahar, who also sent back previousmatch winner Phil Salt, for 17. Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh was run out for five but impact sub Manish Pandey and Rilee Rossouw attempted to revive the chase in their 59-run stand before impact player Pathirana broke through. “This is the fifth or sixth time we have lost a wicket in the first over,” Warner said after his team’s seventh loss. “And it was us throwing our wickets away. We lost a wicket to a run-out. We threw wickets away.” – AFP SOUTH KOREA’S Lee Kyoung-hoon will try this week to become only the fourth player in the past 40 years to win the same PGA Tour event three consecutive seasons. The 31-year-old from Seoul enters the Byron Nelson tournament at par-71 TPC Craig Ranch in suburban Dallas with confidence after an eighth-place at Quail Hollow, his first top-10 result since January’s Tournament of Champions. “Getting better, my game,” Lee said. “A couple months ago, I struggled with putting, but I think last week getting much better. It’s only confidence for putting and irons, so I think ready for this week. “It’s a lot of good memories here and then a lot of confidence for me. Very good momentum and more confidence.” World No. 44 Lee would match Tiger Woods, Steve Stricker and Australian Stuart Appleby as the only players to win the same PGA event three years in a row in 40 years, the most recent to manage the “Three-peat” being Stricker at the John Deere Classic from 2009- 2011. “Very good pressure for me, but still, I’m very thankful for that opportunity, three times in a row champion,” Lee said. “I’ll try my best. If that happens, it’s really cool.” Lee won his first PGA title in 2021, shooting 25-under to beat Sam Burns by three strokes. Last year, he fired a closing 63 to finish 26- under and edge hometown hero Jordan Spieth, a three-time major winner, by one stroke. “I always have great memories here, and so lucky for win last year,” Lee said. “Really cool experience for me and very nice memory.” Lee marvels at the difference in himself between now and the days before his 2021 breakthrough victory. “I’m more confident than before not winning tournaments,” Lee said. “Feels like first win is very hard, I remember, when I won. So I’m really proud of myself and more confidence for me.” – AFP Lee seeks third straight win █ PHIL CASEY Tiger not on Championship list TIGER WOODS was not on the full field list for next week’s PGA Championship, the golf major’s organisers said yesterday, as the 15-times major champion continues to recover from an ankle surgery. Woods, who withdrew from the Masters midway through last month’s tournament due to injury, underwent fusion surgery on a bone in his ankle to address his post-traumatic arthritis from a previous talus bone fracture. The 47-yearold has limited his participation in events following a 2021 car crash which required his leg to be rebuilt. The PGA Championship, the year’s second major, takes place from May 18-21 in Rochester, New York. Woods has won the tournament four times, his last victory coming in 2007. Couples named US vice captain FRED COUPLES was named a vice captain for this year’s United States Ryder Cup team yesterday by captain Zach Johnson as the holders prepare to face Europe in Italy. The Americans will try to win on European soil for the first time since 1993 on Sept 29 to Oct 1 at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club in Rome. “Competing as a player in the Ryder Cup and serving as a vice captain for the US team top the list of the most fulfilling weeks of my career,” Couples said. “Zach is an incredible leader and I look forward to helping him over the next five months and in Italy to bring home a victory.” Couples played on five US Ryder Cup teams from 1989-1997 and served as a US vice captain in 2020 and 2012. PIN HIGH Scheffler hopes improvement will take him back to golf summit Scottie Scheffler watches his tee shot on the ninth hole prior to the AT&T Byron Nelson. – AFPPIX

14 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 SPORTS /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME Paying the price for success Concorde talks set to start early as F1 teams squabble over new teams and extra races FORMULA ONE teams are set to start talks with the sport’s governing body and owners on a new collective agreement with wrangles over a number of thorny issues expected as the sport faces up to the price of success. The current Concorde Agreement, between the three parties, runs until 2025 and often deals have only been secured at the last minute or after a period without a formal agreement. But Greg Maffei, chief executive of Liberty Media, the American owners and rights holders of Formula One, said last week that he wanted to begin talks now. Maffei’s comments on an investor’s call were well received by teams at the Miami Grand Prix, who saw no reason not to get down to business ahead of schedule. “We haven’t really started talking properly but that’s going to happen soon,” said Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, who hopes the talks will be kept behind closed doors. “It should happen in a constructive way, not maybe live-broadcasted and creating controversy,” he said. Given the history of the usually very public debates around the Concorde talks, that may be wishful thinking from the Austrian, however. While F1 is enjoying a boom, enhanced by the success of the Netflix series Drive to Survive and strong growth in the United States, that very popularity is creating new issues that the talks will need to resolve. There are understood to be several groups keen to enter the sport with established US motor sport operation Andretti teaming up with General Motors to propose an Andretti Cadillac Team. That bid is being headed by Michael Andretti, a former F1 driver and son of Mario Andretti, F1 world champion in 1978. The Andretti family’s rich history in motor racing combined with General Motors and the Cadillac brand, makes the proposed team an attractive proposition but as always in F1, there will be wrangling over the money. Currently the 10 teams divide up the “prize fund” between themselves and the existing agreement calls for a “dilution fee” of US$200 million (RM860m) to be paid by any new entry. It would be no surprise if the teams push for the entry fee to be raised significantly in the new agreement. Some media reports have said the teams want to see the fee raised as high as US$600 million (RM2.6b). The other big issue on the agenda for the talks is the number of races with F1 now at a record 23 events in the season with November’s Las Vegas Grand Prix added to the circuit. This season would have reached 24 races if the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai had returned and while there are also no shortage of potential venues pushing for an event, the teams have been vocal in insisting the sport is at its limit. – AFP Enrique completes Malaysia’s clean sweep in diving AFTER taking home all eight golds offered in the 2021 SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam, debutant Enrique Maccartney Harold ensured Malaysia’s domination as he wrapped up a clean sweep of all diving events at the 2023 SEA Games in Phnom Penh yesterday. In the men’s 10m platform held in Morodok Techo Aquatics Centre, Enrique was in a class of his own as he raked in 442.95 points after six round of dives, to deliver Malaysia’s fourth gold in diving. Even sweeter, Malaysia enjoyed a one-two podium finish as another national diver, Bertrand Rhodict Lises, earned silver with 384.00 points Bronze went to Singapore’s Shen Oon Max Lee who collected 362.80 points. Meanwhile, Enrique admitted Bertrand had given a great fight even though luck was indeed on the 20-year-old diver’s side to exit the pool as the champion. “When I dived I didn’t think about anything and did what I could because I know Bertrand is my strong rival and I know what kind of dive he has,” he said after the medal ceremony. Enrique said this was because Bertrand had performed a slightly higher difficulty but a few series of poor dives had denied his teammate a chance to claim the gold. In the meantime, the Sarawakianathlete said his golden splash in Cambodia had motivated him to try his luck of making a cut in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. “It will be difficult to get to Paris but I’ll fight to go there. I also hope that I can win a medal in the World Championships in Tokyo this July as well as performing better in the next Asian Games in Hangzhou, China,” he said. Last Monday, Kimberly Bong kicked off the “party” for the national diving camp here after winning gold in the women’s 3m springboard individual and Muhammad Syafiq Puteh, on the other hand, contributed the second gold in men’s 3m springboard individual. Yesterday, 15-year-old diver, Lee Yiat Qing sprang a surprise as she splashed her way to gold No. 3 for Malaysia in the pool after winning the women’s platform event in her first appearance at the biennial Games. – Bernama Jabeur wants equal pay WORLD NO. 7 Ons Jabeur said women players should not have to wait to receive the same prize money as their male counterparts at the Italian Open after tournament organisers announced plans to achieve pay parity by 2025. Tennis has sought to be a leader in the battle for equality in the last couple of decades with equal prize money offered to men and women at the four Grand Slams. WTA Tour events, however, still often offer less prize money than those on the separate men’s circuit. “I don’t see why we have to wait,” Jabeur told the New York Times. “It’s really frustrating. It’s time for change. It’s time for the tournament to do better.” Spain’s Paula Badosa said she did not understand why there was prize money disparity in Rome, which attracts some of the world’s top names. “I don’t know why it’s not equal right now,” Badosa said. “They don’t inform us. They say this is what you get and you have to play.” Organisers apologise for denying speeches THE organisers of the Madrid Open have apologised to the women’s doubles finalists of this year’s tournament following criticism for denying players the opportunity to make speeches at the trophy ceremony. Singles world No. 3 Jessica Pegula, who partnered Coco Gauff in their 6-1, 6-4 defeat by Victoria Azarenka and Beatriz Haddad Maia, said she was left disappointed after organisers did not allow the finalists to address fans. The men’s doubles finalists were allowed to do so following their match a day earlier and tournament organisers apologised to players and fans “who expect more of the Madrid Open”. “Not giving our women’s doubles finalists the chance to address their fans at the end of the match was unacceptable and we have apologised directly to Victoria, Beatriz, Coco and Jessica,” tournament CEO Gerard Tsobanian said. “We made a mistake and this will not ever happen again.” Etcheverry lines up Djokovic clash in Rome NOVAK DJOKOVIC will begin his bid to retain the Italian Open title against Tomas Etcheverry after the Argentine beat Luca van Assche in the first round yesterday. World No. 61 Etcheverry beat Frenchman Van Assche in straight sets, 7-6 (9-7), 6-3, in Rome to reach the second round, when the top seeds join the fray. Djokovic comes into the clay-court tournament he has won six times recovering from an elbow injury and set to lose top spot in the world rankings to Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz just needs to play a match in the Italian capital to return to the world No. 1 ranking ahead of the French Open which starts later this month. Djokovic won his record-equalling 22nd Grand Slam at the Australian Open in January but missed the American hard-court swing in March due to his refusal to be vaccinated. The 35-year-old has endured a tough start to the European clay-court season, being eliminated in the last 16 at the Monte Carlo Masters, in the quarterfinals at Banja Luka and then pulling out of Madrid. Veteran Stan Wawrinka will face 25th seed Grigor Dimitrov in the last 64, the three-time Grand Slam winner easing past Ilya Ivashka 6-4, 6-2. Wawrinka, 38, and playing in the Italian capital for the 18th time, hit 26 winners and saved the one break point he faced. “I was ready for it. I am playing well. It was a good first match and I am really happy to get through again,” said Wawrinka, who was runner-up to Djokovic in Rome in 2008. In a leter match, Fabio Fognini edged out Andy Murray in a battle of veteran tennis dads. Fognini, ranked outside of the top 100 for the first time in 14 years, came through 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 against his fellow 35-year-old. “For sure I’m happy because coming back from injury is never easy, especially at our age. But winning here in Rome against a really big player like Andy,” said Fognini, who has been troubled by a foot injury. In the women’s event, Lesia Tsurenko won an-all Ukrainian clash, beating Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-3. – AFP BRIEFS Country Gold Silver Bronze Vietnam 50 51 61 Thailand 50 36 56 Cambodia 47 41 49 Indonesia 35 31 56 Singapore 27 22 26 Philippines 25 43 57 Malaysia 22 25 45 Myanmar 14 11 31 Laos 5 11 35 Brunei 1 1 4 Timor-Leste 0 0 2 2023 SEA GAMES MEDAL TALLY Gold medallist Enrique Maccartney Harold (top) in action before winning the gold in the men’s 10m platform. Bertrand Rhodict Lises (left) won the silver in the same dicipline yesterday. – REUTERSPIX

15 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 12, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME MATCH-BY-MATCH facts and stats ahead of the next round of the English Premier League (all in 10pm Malaysian time unless stated): Tomorrow Leeds vsNewcastle (7.30pm)– Away Win Leeds manager Sam Allardyce has won more League matches against Newcastle than any other side (13). The Magpies's Kieran Trippier has created 101 chances in the League this season, second only to Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes (103). Newcastle have won four of their last five away League games (L1) this season. Aston Villa vs Tottenham – Away Win Tottenham striker Harry Kane has scored in 23 League games this season, one short of the record in a 38-game campaign set by Mohamed Salah in 2017-18 (24 games scored). Spurs are without a win in their last six away League games (D2 L4). Villa's last four League wins against Spurs have come away from home. They are winless in 11 against Spurs at Villa Park in the competition (D2 L9) since a 2-1 win in January 2008. Chelsea vs Forest – Home Win Kai Havertz has scored more goals (seven), had more shots (65), and created more chances (35) than any Chelsea player in the League this season. Morgan Gibbs-White has been involved in more League goals than any player for Forest this season (12 – five goals, seven assists), including five in his last four games. Chelsea are winless in their last five home League games, losing both of their last two. Crystal Palace vs Bournemouth – Home Win Palace manager Roy Hodgson has won his last three League meetings with Bournemouth. Dominic Solanke has been involved in Bournemouth's last four League goals away from home (one goal, three assists). The Cherries have won their last three League away games, their longest-ever run in the top-flight. Manchester United vs Wolves – Home Win Marcus Rashford has scored 19 home goals in all competitions for United this season – the last player to net more at Old Trafford in a campaign was Wayne Rooney (20 in 2009- 10). Ruben Neves (six goals, one assist) has been involved in more league goals than any player for Wolves this season. United have won 24 matches at Old Trafford in all competitions this season; only in 2002-03 (27), 2007-08 (25) and 2010-11 (26) did they have more home wins in a campaign. Southampton vs Fulham– Away Win If Southampton fail to win this game, they will be relegated from the top-flight for the third time in their history. Fulham's 14 wins are their joint-most in a League season. The Saints have lost 23 Premier League games this season, their joint-most defeats ever suffered in a League campaign. Sunday Brentford vs West Ham (9pm)– Home Win Ivan Toney has been involved in Brentford's last four League goals against West Ham, scoring twice and assisting the other two. Jarrod Bowen has been involved in 49 goals for West Ham in the League (26 goals and 23 assists) and could become the sixth player to reach 50 plus for the club in the competition. Brentford have won five of their last seven League games against West Ham in a run stretching back to 1953 (D1 L1). Everton vs Manchester City (9pm)– Away Win City have won their last 10 League games, the fifth time they have had a winning run of at least 10 consecutive matches under Pep Guardiola. Since Sean Dyche's first game in charge in February, Dwight McNeil has been involved in more League goals for Everton than any other player (seven – five goals, two assists). Arsenal vs Brighton (11.30pm)– Home Win Alexis Mac Allister has scored 10 League goals this season, more than any Brighton player. Brighton have won three of their last four away games against Arsenal in all competitions (L1). Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has been involved in four goals in his four League games against Brighton (two goals, two assists). Tuesday Leicester vs Liverpool (3am)– Away Win Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has scored seven goals in his last seven games against Leicester in all competitions. The Foxes' Jamie Vardy has scored eight goals against Liverpool in the League, with only Andrew Cole (11) and Harry Kane (nine) netting more against them. Mohamed Salah has scored 19 League goals this season, and he could become the first player to net 20-plus League goals in three consecutive seasons for Liverpool since Roger Hunt. Reuters ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS Best player in the world? Vinicius stunning strike against City marked new stage in dazzling rise I F Real Madrid-Manchester City has become that most modern of Champions League fixtures, this latest meeting showcased a vintage European Cup quality. It is that moment of true quality that comes out of almost nothing and can change almost everything about a tie. Both teams suffered from it on Wednesday. Both teams benefited from it. It did feel telling that two goals of the highest level came as their sides were enduring their most difficult periods of the game, but in this case it was more about the players responsible than the teams. This competition is not just about deciding the champions of Europe, after all. It often elevates the greatest player in the world, and it was victory that for so long decided the Ballon d’Or. There is now an opening there as the Lionel Messi-Cristiano Ronaldo era comes to an end, and Vinicius Junior is clearly one of those most willing to fill it. And at full speed. The Brazilian has added a complete range of abilities to his devastating pace. His goal against City was testament to that: another jawdropping moment that signalled a player moving to another level. This wasn’t just scorching through a defence to side-foot it past a keeper – if such brilliance can even be described in such a muted way – in the way Vinicius marked his early career. His semifinal strike was hit with full confidence and power and showcased a player growing into his game and his true qualities. It was a little like when Messi went from beating defenders and sliding the ball past goalkeepers to suddenly smashing in all range of strikes. Who now compares to Vinicius in 2023? He may well be the most effective player in the world right now, if not the very best. Kylian Mbappe still feels like he has a pure football level beyond anyone else but it’s hard not to again wonder if he feels he is wasting himself in a league lacking in profile. The French star at this point has only a few games a year to shine. Then there is Vinicius and Mbappe’s counterpart in sky blue. This time, however, it wasn’t Erling Haaland. For all the focus on Norwegian’s goals, there have been moments this season where it has felt like he’s in a mutually beneficial competition with Kevin De Bruyne to be City’s best player. This was most true in the 4-1 victory over Arsenal – but the Belgian clearly won the contest in the Bernabeu. His goal was one of those essential interventions that characterises the career of great players. He performed beyond anyone else when it was most needed – and at the most crucial stage. Haaland may have leapt above his teammate in those discussions, but this was one of those games where it can at least be understood why people say he is a great goalscorer rather than necessarily a great player. That isn’t a criticism – or even to say it’s true – but he was more at the fringes of general play here in that way that can happen with the Norwegian. Madrid will know not to get complacent, though. The truth is that David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger had to work extremely hard to limit his impact. It just left that space for De Bruyne, which sets up the second leg. Guardiola described it as “a playoff” as well as a final, but indicated he will seek to do something different in terms of tactics. This was a rare game where, even though City had more of the possession, they didn’t have full control of the game and probably weren’t the better team. “We try to adjust something for the second leg to be a bit more fluid, play with a bit more rhythm,” Guardiola said. This has the feel of a game that is going to be decided by those margins. Two of the best players already indicated that. – The Independent Kompany planning ‘smart’ recruitment for Burnley VINCENT KOMPANY insists Burnley must be “smart” in the summer transfer window as they gear up for their return to the Premier League. In his first season in charge, Kompany has guided the Clarets back to the top flight 12 months after relegation, winning the Championship title and reaching 101 points with a 3-0 victory over Cardiff in Tuesday’s final game of the season. The success came after Kompany oversaw a major overhaul of the squad last summer, when 13 senior players left and 16 arrived to replace them. There will be nothing on that scale this time, but Kompany knows further investment is needed to try to ensure Burnley can re-establish themselves in the Premier League. “We’ve been planning for comfortably six months for this scenario,” Kompany told the PA news agency. “We’re going to have to be smart but, because we’ve been planning for a long time, I feel confident we can improve the squad without losing what has been good for us this season. “At the same time we have to make sure we don’t go and bankrupt the club. It’s about healthy decisions, protecting the club, but at the same time trying to be competitive.” Last week Kompany signed a new fiveyear Burnley contract, designed to end speculation linking him to Tottenham and Chelsea so that prospective new signings know who they will be playing for. Kompany said the contract reflected how happy he is with his Turf Moor set-up. “I’ve been in football for 20 years and I know how difficult it is to find a healthy environment in football,” the former Manchester City captain said. “We’ve achieved something together now and that will count towards the future.” – The Independent SERGIO BUSQUETS was showered with praise by the football world after announcing yesterday he will leave Barcelona in June at the end of his contract, ending a highly successful era at the club. “The moment has arrived to announce this is my last season at Barcelona,” said Busquets on Instagram. “It has been an unforgettable journey.” Busquets won the Champions League three times with Barcelona and La Liga on eight occasions before this season, with the Catalans set to triumph for the first time in four years. The 34-year-old has been a key player for Barca since breaking into the first team under then coach Pep Guardiola in 2008, becoming the club’s captain in 2021. Busquets is third Barcelona’s all-time appearance list, playing for the club on 718 occasions, lifting 31 trophies “It has been an honour, a dream, a pride. It has been everything to be able to defend and represent this badge for so many years, but everything has a beginning and an end,” said Busquets. “Although it has not been an easy decision, I think the time has come.” Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez, who played with Busquets in midfield for several years, wanted the midfielder to stay next season, but said the decision was his. Busquets’ teammates past and present paid tribute to him on social media after he announced his future lay elsewhere. Paris Saint-Germain forward Lionel Messi, a close friend, wrote a heartfelt message on Instagram. “On the pitch you were always No. 5, but in reality as a player and as a person, you are a 10, Busi,” said the Argentine playmaker. “Thank you for everything on and off the pitch.” Barcelona defender Jordi Alba also showed his affection for the veteran midfielder. “My friend, after so much we’ve lived through together, what can I say that you don’t know?” wrote Alba on Instagram. “You’re leaving your home, having made an indelible imprint on Barcelona’s history. “More than 700 games and a fundamental part of so many titles, and glorious nights that all Barca fans will forever remember.” Even rivals paid tribute, with Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric saying: “one of the best players I have played against.” – AFP It has been an honour, says Busquets █ MIGUEL DELANEY █ IAN PARKER Vinicius Jr

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] ON A night of thrilling sensory overload, it is Internazionale left with the feeling that matters most: victory, and in the match that matters most. That it was 2-0 at the San Siro, from the most thrilling of starts, went some way to finishing this Champions League semifinal when it had barely begun, putting Simone Inzaghi’s fine cup team on the brink of the grandest final in club football. It still could have been much worse for AC Milan, who badly missed their best player in Rafael Leao. It meant they had no answer – either at the back or front – to Inter’s individual stars. Edin Dzeko and Henrikh Mkhitaryan plundered lightning bolts of early goals. These two teams didn’t just come together for a historic derby in the most prestigious of competitions. They came together for something bigger. This was in truth a deeply rich cultural occasion as much as a sporting fixture, the profound history of the latter context enriching the former. It was also a truly sensory experience. The noise and colour were of another plane, vintage sights and sounds like those huge Italian banners being waved like battle flags amid raucous chanting afforded a new air. There is something important to that. These are two grand clubs who had largely been left behind by the forces enveloping the wider game, but who were still picked off by such interests. The owners of major clubs – be they equity firms, states or industrialists – may be seeking to buy this but it is something that can only come from the history and context. Inter could have won by a wider margin as Hakan Calhanoglu smashed a shot off the post and Dzeko wasted a great chance early in the second half, but they are still heavy favourites to reach the final of Europe’s top club competition for the first time since they last won it 13 years ago. “Sometimes I don’t score goals and that’s all anyone talks about, but I also give something else,” Dzeko told Prime Video after his third goal since January. “Today I worked for the team and that was what was needed in such a big match.” Reaching the final would be extra sweet for Inter as it would avenge semifinal and quarterfinal eliminations at the hands of Milan in 2003 and 2005. “We played a brilliant first half, but it’s a tight scoreline for what we did out there,” Inter boss Inzaghi told reporters. “Then in the second half we managed the game well. Apart from (Sandro) Tonali’s shot (which hit the post) the boys did great in covering the whole pitch. “It’s a hugely positive night which gives us a lot of satisfaction but we’re missing one more piece to attain a dream that we believed in since August. “There are still seven days left. We know we’ve got one more small step to go.” Milan have their work cut out if they want to have a chance at being crowned European champions for the eighth time. Coach Stefano Pioli said his team still believes they can turn the result around next week at the San Siro. “I know my players, I know we can do better… next week’s match will be psychologically very difficult for both teams because we have the chance to reach the final,” Pioli told reporters. “We have the chance to score some goals, put them under pressure and set right what’s happened. “It’s difficult, it won’t be a walk in the park. It will be difficult but we have to believe because football has taught us that you can overcome all sorts of obstacles.” Milan defender Fikayo Tomori told Prime Video: “We conceded two quick goals, and against Inter that’s difficult to come back from. “We’re disappointed, we could have done better, especially at the beginning, but we need to believe if we’re going to reach the final.” – The Independent/AFP JACK GREALISH feels like Kevin De Bruyne was made for the Champions League after the Belgian’s vital semifinal strike for Manchester City at Real Madrid. De Bruyne netted a stunning equaliser as the Premier League leaders claimed a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their last-four tie against the holders at the Bernabeu on Wednesday. Despite dominating a lot of the early play, City were trailing to an equally brilliant Vinicius Junior goal when De Bruyne rifled home from distance after 67 minutes. His screamer left the tie delicately poised ahead of next week’s return leg at the Etihad Stadium. Grealish said: “We all know what a guy Kevin is and what a brilliant player he has been for this football club. Nights like this are just made for him and sum him up really. “City fans can’t count how many times he’s scored important goals, got important assists. It must have meant a lot to him and obviously I’m buzzing for him.” Commenting after the match, former Arsenal great Thierry Henry said the Manchester City hero is from a “different planet” after his stunning equaliser. Henry, who worked with the midfielder for over two years in his role as an assistant coach with the Belgium national team, lauded more than just his impeccable shooting ability. “I still think he’s the most important player in this team,” Henry told CBS Sports. “I’ve played against some of the greatest… I think Kevin, his brain is the best I’ve ever seen, the way he sees the game. “Because his brain is in some places, I don’t know what he thinks about sometimes, you look at him and it’s almost like he’s not with us because he’s that good. “Sometimes it can be a problem because you’re not on his level, but I think he’s the most clever player I’ve seen in my life. “He’s unbelievable… he’s from a different planet and it wasn’t his best game tonight, but he delivered.” City outplayed Real, who are bidding to win the European Cup for a record-extending 15th time, as they dominated possession in the opening halfhour but they were caught out by Vinicius’ wonder strike after 36 minutes. The Brazilian let fly from from 25 yards after good work by Eduardo Camavinga and City needed to retain their composure in a difficult atmosphere to get back into the game. They were rewarded when De Bruyne replicated Vinicius’ heroics but Real also had their moments of dominance in a hard-fought second half. With both goalkeepers making good saves, the outcome remains very much in the balance. “Everyone knows what the Champions League is like,” Grealish said. “It’s a brilliant competition – brilliant players, brilliant stadiums and brilliant teams. “That was their first attempt, when they scored the goal. It was a great strike, there probably wasn’t much we could do about it, but we hung in there. “It was great mental strength from everyone to carry on playing, carry on trying and in the end Kev came up with an absolute worldie. “We came here to win the game, that’s what we wanted to do, but in the end I think the draw was probably was a fair result.” Treble-chasing City can ill-afford to ease up ahead of the return encounter, with a testing trip to relegation-threatened Everton at the weekend. With the Toffees fighting for survival, it is likely to be a different type of encounter and the Premier League leaders will be determined to pick up points to hold off Arsenal in the title race. It is a challenge Grealish is relishing. “I feel unstoppable at the moment,” the 27-yearold said: “You’re looking around, playing with these guys that are unbelievable. “And the fans are brilliant, every home and away game. I’m sure we’ll need them at Goodison Park at the weekend and, of course, the Etihad next week, which we’re all buzzing for already.” – The Independent or download app from the App Store or Google Play TM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my FREE access Interactive FRIDAY • MAY 12, 2023 Grealish hails teammate De Bruyne after stunner against Madrid █ ANDY HAMPSON Spectacle of sport Milan derby creates thrilling sensory overload as Inter eye Champions League final █ MIGUEL DELANEY Henrikh Mkhitaryan scores Inter’s second goal past Milan keeper Mike Maignan during the Champions League semifinal 1st leg match at the San Siro yesterday. – REUTERSPIX