The Sun Daily-170523

KUALA LUMPUR: With fatigue a common complaint due to the heatwave currently being experienced in the country, motorists have been cautioned about nodding off while driving, putting themselves and other road users at risk. The danger of microsleep is real, as police said between 2011 and 2021, there were a total of 1,305 fatalities attributed to drivers falling asleep at the wheel due to fatigue. The Meteorological Department also reported that temperatures have soared to unprecedented levels in recent weeks, with daily highs of between 35°C and 37°C. Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai said the current heatwave may cause a rise in microsleep, which is a very short period of sleep that can occur over seconds, rather than minutes or hours. “Microsleep affects those not getting enough rest or having sleep disorders such as insomnia. Sleep apnea and narcolepsy may also be contributing factors, as is fatigue. “These episodes typically last only for a few seconds and may occur due to a lack of sleep or feeling tired throughout the day. A person having an episode of microsleep may appear to be awake, but is not fully responsive,” he said. Muruga Raj added that individuals who are going through microsleep episodes may exhibit signs such as forgetting certain details discussed in conversations, experiencing sudden moments of distraction and nodding their head. They may also forget their work at hand and experience confusion while attempting to complete complex tasks. Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research chairman Prof Dr Wong Shaw Voon said microsleep episodes are dangerous for drivers because the few seconds one falls asleep behind the wheel could cause a fatal crash. “Microsleep drivers are prone to crashes due to skipping sleep to get ahead of schedule. To make matters worse, these motorists may have to drive down straight and ‘boring’ roads, which further tires the eyes. “Working irregular hours and shifts, or staying up late can disrupt a person’s sleep patterns and cause drowsiness. Over time, this will result in an accumulation of sleep debt, or insufficient hours of proper rest.” He said to overcome this, there are technologies within the Advanced DriverAssistance System, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) in new vehicles, including commercial ones. “AEB is a safety feature in modern vehicles that uses sensors, cameras and radars to detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate an accident. “The benefits of AEB are numerous and significant, especially in avoiding collisions. The LDW system uses a camera to track road markings and sound an alarm when drivers stray out of their lanes without signalling.” Wong said new vehicles come with such technology to alert drivers before a possible collision occurs, while motorists driving older vehicles can add minor features such as cameras and sensors to their vehicles. However, he said it was not advisable to modify vehicles with such features as it would be harmful if they malfunction, adding that some users disable the safety features of their vehicles, which is also not recommended, as it could be helpful for drivers as traffic conditions cannot be predicted. Muruga Raj said: “It is also important to refrain from self-medicating as it is crucial to take any underlying health conditions into account before taking prescription drugs.” He added that individuals who encounter extreme exhaustion or somnolence, which is a state of drowsiness or a strong desire to fall asleep, should promptly consult a doctor. “It is important to maintain good health and practise proper sleep cycles by sleeping for seven to nine hours each night. oCurrent hot spell may cause rise in microsleep among drivers: MMA president █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] Little nap, big risk TELLING IT AS IT IS ON WEDNESDAY MAY 17, 2023 No. 8269 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Between 2011 and 2021, a total of 1,305 fatalities were attributed to drivers falling asleep at the wheel due to fatigue. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN “Microsleep can be solved by following healthy sleep patterns, eating habits, getting adequate daylight exposure, exercising regularly and managing stress levels. “It is important to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm, which is an internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and occurs every 24 hours,” he said. INSIDE page 3 page PM calls for task force to raise 2 interest in science subjects Cash-strapped welfare home on brink of closure

2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS King attends Aidilfitri open house hosted by ministry KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah attended the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry’s (Miti) Aidilfitri open house at Menara Miti yesterday. Upon his arrival at 11am, the King was greeted by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, his deputy Liew Chin Tong, and the ministry’s secretarygeneral Datuk Isham Ishak. The event was also attended by the Regent of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah AlSultan Abdullah. The King was then escorted to Dewan Perdana to sample traditional Hari Raya dishes while being entertained by performances from local artistes such as Black, Haziq Rosebi and Asmidar. The King also spent some time mingling with ministry staff and visitors before leaving at 12pm. The open house was attended by 2,800 visitors, including staff members from agencies under the ministry. – Bernama Call for task force to pique interest in science subjects MALACCA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has asked the Education Ministry to set up a special task force to find ways to stimulate children’s interest in subjects related to science and technology. He said the world is now moving towards green technology, especially in the automotive field, but based on the latest report he received, children, especially the poor and urban poor, are now less interested in science and technology-related subjects. “I have asked the education minister to set up a special task force to stimulate the children’s interest and enthusiasm not only in learning the normal subjects but also exploring new disciplines in science and technology. “The study found that the oReport shows deterioration in field of study, especially among poor and urban poor students, says prime minister interest of children, especially in remote and rural areas as well as urban areas, has deteriorated. This is a challenge for us and the country in moving towards green technology and electric cars.” He was speaking at the launch of the 2023 National Teachers Day celebration, themed Guru Insani Pemangkin Generasi Madani yesterday. The celebration at the Malacca International Trade Centre in Ayer Keroh was also attended by Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, her deputy Lim Hui Ying and thousands of teachers from across the country. Anwar also called on teachers to continue supporting the government’s leadership and help boost the people’s spirit so that Malaysia could bounce back as a great nation in the region. “Let’s make this country with the strength of its languages, its literature, its cultures, its values and its technologies to be a great nation in the region. “Insya-Allah, if teachers are committed and work a little harder, I’m sure our future will be bright.” In a post on his Facebook page yesterday, Anwar also wished teachers Happy Teachers Day and expressed his thanks and appreciation for the knowledge imparted to him as well as the devotion shown by his former teachers. “May 16 is a very significant day to commemorate the deeds and sacrifices of teachers in developing the nation and society. “May all the knowledge imparted (by teachers) humanise us. And to the teachers who have taught me, your commitment and sacrifices are very much appreciated. Thank you for all the knowledge you have imparted to me,” he said in his post. New road tax structure for electric vehicles being studied KUALA LUMPUR: The Transport Ministry (MOT) is working on a new road tax structure for electric vehicles (EV), said its minister Anthony Loke. He said the new tax structure is expected to be unveiled at the end of this year, and would feature prominently in the ministry’s Budget 2024 proposals. Loke said the move is essential because the previous government had given road tax exemption for EVs only until 2025. “Consumers are generally concerned about the EV road tax structure because if based on the old formula, the cost impact is high and can reach RM4,000 to RM5,000 a year. “I have directed officers at the Transport Ministry to study this matter based on feedback from consumers and companies providing EVs. This is part of our efforts to encourage users to switch to this type of vehicles.” He was speaking after attending the Green Mobility and Transport Forum in Cheras yesterday. Loke said policies on EV usage should be clear to facilitate efforts to get people to migrate to a more sustainable transport mode. He said this is in line with the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint targeting 15% usage of EV and hybrid vehicles this year and the provision of 10,000 units of charging facilities by 2025. He added that the ministry is not only looking at the adoption of a sustainable mobility concept for land vehicles but also for air and maritime transport. “The concept of using sustainable fuels has also become a choice in the aviation sector, and this matter has gained the ministry’s attention, especially at Lima 2023 (Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023).” In his keynote address at the forum, Loke said Malaysia would continue to work together with Sweden to enable both countries to learn and cooperate on initiatives that promote sustainable transport modes. “We can leverage Sweden’s best practices and expertise in EV adoption, charging infrastructure and smart traffic systems, among others, to accelerate the transition to e-mobility in Malaysia. “I believe that cooperation is key to solving this challenge, and I am glad to see that our two nations are strengthening our relations within the transport sector, particularly in green transition, in addition to our previous partnership in road safety.” – Bernama Teachers among priority groups for pay hike MALACCA: Teachers are among groups of civil servants who will be given priority to receive increases in allowances and salaries if the country’s revenue continues to improve, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the government is aware that besides teachers, the salaries and allowances of civil servants, such as the police and the military, are inadequate. “In the meantime, we will work to make the economic position more stable, and revenue to increase. I have announced that the priority is for civil servants and teachers, including the police and the military because we are aware that their allowances and salaries are insufficient and we should give them better treatment.” He said this after attending the Royal Malaysia Police Aidilfitri open house at the Tangga Batu parliamentary constituency here yesterday. – Bernama Hot spell may trigger emergency PUTRAJAYA: The government is prepared to declare an emergency if the current hot spell in the country turns extreme, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. Ahmad Zahid, who is also National Disaster Management Agency chairman, said the National Security Council Directive 20 on declaration of emergency would be activated if temperatures hit excessively high levels. “We are monitoring on a 24-hour basis. If there is an emergency, we will make an announcement. There is none yet,” he told a media conference after chairing the Central Disaster Management Committee Meeting at Perdana Putra here yesterday. He said cloud-seeding operations would be conducted. – Bernama Uphold trust and integrity, ministry staff told PUTRAJAYA: Staff of the Communications and Digital Ministry must always uphold the principles of trust and integrity to the highest standard in carrying out their duties, said its minister Fahmi Fadzil. “Let’s nurture trust and strengthen integrity in all of us. I also call for a sincere attitude and an atmosphere of fun at work to continue to be nurtured. “I believe the ministry has staff who are competitive and the best in whatever service they provide.” He was speaking at the Communications and Digital Ministry’s 2022 Excellent Service Awards ceremony here yesterday. Fahmi said to implement more dynamic and progressive changes, the ministry’s staff must continue to emphasise character building through increasing their knowledge and skills. “The ministry’s staff are an important asset in making every policy and national agenda introduced by the unity government a success.” Fahmi said the Excellent Service Awards would motivate all staff to always be competitive in cultivating excellent work practices, in line with the public service pledge. A total of 374 of the ministry’s staff, including 53 recipients from the Malaysian National News Agency, received certificates of appreciation and incentives worth RM1,000 each. Present was Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching. Meanwhile, Fahmi also said he had asked the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) to continuously monitor all officers in his office to avoid fraud. He said enforcement authorities, especially the MACC, are free to act in carrying out their duties. “I ask the MACC to (do) a check on all my officers to make sure there is no fraud. If any action is taken (by MACC), we will also take action.” – Bernama SHOWING GRATITUDE ... Students taking a picture with their teacher Nurdiah Izzaty in conjunction with Teachers’ Day celebrations at SMK Seri Pantai in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 PENANG: The Ci Ai Welfare (CAW) home in Jalan Matang Kuching, Air Itam has started the process of shutting down due to its inability to obtain funds to stay afloat. The home, which has been facing financial problems for a year, has been attempting to sustain operations and care for its neglected and disadvantaged elderly residents with funds donated from time to time by well-wishers. However, this was insufficient and the home was forced to send out an urgent appeal through theSun on May 11, seeking donations to continue operating. CAW founder Wong Seok Fung, 47, said yesterday the appeal had only garnered RM4,000 for the home. “While we are very grateful for every sen we received, the RM4,000 raised is insufficient to look after the 20 elderly individuals in our home. We are now on the brink of closing down. “The 20 elderly residents are almost certain to lose the only shelter they have as we have started contacting their next of kin. Sadly, some of the residents have no home to return to or relatives to look after them. “We have also reached out to other welfare homes to take them in. Some of these homes require payment to stay. “However, the fees would be slightly lower as we have spoken to them about our predicament and the care required by our elderly residents.” She said some of the elderly’s families were too poor to cover medical and other financial expenses required to care for their loved ones. However, CAW’s predicament had made it difficult to fulfil its mission and has little choice but to close operations. CAW provides shelter and care for the elderly, some of whom are unable to be accommodated for long-term care in government facilities as they are comatose, while private facilities cost way above what their families can afford. “We are grateful to the donors for their contributions, but it is insufficient as we spend about RM1,500 on each elderly a month, which comes to RM30,000. “This is not including utility bills, rental, transport, maintenance and salaries for our four employees,” she said. CAW social worker Ang Chye Hoon, 67, said regular donations are required to run the welfare home as the elderly need continuous care. She added that CAW has had to reduce the number of people it cared for due to the ever-growing expenses and arrival of critical cases. “We are actively seeking the help of our residents’ next of kin to take them back. We are also continuing the search to relocate residents who have no families,” she said. CAW continues to be hopeful for public support to continue operating. Those who are keen to help can contribute directly through its Hong Leong Bank account number 38300026683. Wong can be reached at 012-484 2447 for further information. Govt urged to complete Penang dam project quickly GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government hopes the federal government will complete the Mengkuang Dam Expansion Project (MDEP) as soon as possible to ensure its role as the state’s strategic drought reserve dam. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the MDEP started in 2011 through a direct federal government allocation worth RM1.2 billion, involving four phases – Phase 1, Phase 2A, Phase 2B and Phase 2C. “Phase 2B is being carried out and involves laying of a pipeline to upgrade the drawdown capacity to 600 million litres of raw water per day (MLD) at any time from the current 300 MLD. “Without implementation of the full scope of the RM1.2 billion MDEP (as envisioned in 2011), Penang water supply services will inevitably be disrupted by problems occurring at Sungai Muda, its only major raw water source,” he said here yesterday. Chow added that in theory, the capacity of the expanded Mengkuang Dam would be able to last for up to 10 months in a prolonged drought. – Bernama Financially dry welfare home to cease operations oDespite earnest efforts of management and appeal through theSun, establishment still unable to meet monthly expenses RM98m more to upgrade police quarters KOTA KINABALU: The police force will receive an additional allocation of RM98.715 million for upgrading and maintenance works for its staff quarters nationwide. Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Ruji Ubi said it was part of the total RM200 million allocated by the government for the repair of staff quarters of enforcement officers and uniformed units under the ministry. “Of the RM98.715 million, Sabah police will receive RM32.215 million, while the rest will be divided among police contingents in Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. “The upgrading and maintenance work involve rundown police quarters, including the state contingent police headquarters, district police headquarters, General Operations Force and Marine Police Force,” he said, when officiating at the hand over ceremony of the Inanam police quarters construction project here yesterday. Also present were Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, Bukit Aman Logistics and Technology Department Director Datuk Seri Sahabudin Abd Manan, Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department Director Datuk Seri Hazani Ghazali, and Sabah Police Commissioner Datuk Jauteh Dikun. At the event, a total of 102 units of staff quarters, comprising two units of Class E and 100 units of Class F, as well as multipurpose halls, kindergartens and nurseries, and other support buildings, were handed over to be used by Inanam police station and Kota Kinabalu district headquarters police personnel. – Bernama Initiative to help S’wak grads start careers KUCHING: The Sarawak Education, Innovation and Talent Development Ministry will launch a programme to equip young Sarawakian graduates with skills they need to embark on careers in the semiconductor industry starting this year. Its deputy minister Datuk Francis Harden Hollis said the “Sarawak Digital Economy Transformation: Talent Development in Semiconductors and Chip Design” programme would be part of the strategic framework of a state government company – SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd (SMDS) – to produce 500 semiconductor professionals by 2027 with guaranteed job placements in the state. “SMDS is Sarawak’s own innovative chip design and technology solution provider, a subsidiary of Sarawak Research Development Council, under the purview of the ministry,” he said after chairing the programme’s first coordination meeting here yesterday. The deputy minister added that the SMDS strategic framework includes upskilling and reskilling programmes that cover high-value, highly skilled training programmes for graduates through industry proven training modules. – Bernama Science platform to boost research, solutions KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Open Science Platform (MOSP) was launched yesterday to bridge the gap between research, innovation and commercialisation and enhance the country’s innovation capabilities. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, in his speech during the launch, said through the MOSP, Malaysia will be able to expedite research and accelerate solutions even with little research and development of human resources. He said MOSP can also foster multidisciplinary and international collaboration and save resources by reducing duplication and refunding of similar research projects. “I am confident that open science will be an essential building block in the research and development of ecosystem that will pave a new future for the research landscape in Malaysia,” he said. MOSP, which can be accessed via mosp.gov.my, is a raw research data-sharing platform initiated by the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry. – Bernama Wong and volunteers at the home serving food to residents. – MASRY CHE ANI/ THESUN █ BYVEISHNAWI NEHRU [email protected]

4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Traditional Chinese medicine gaining wider acceptance PETALING JAYA: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is now well accepted by all races and is not confined only to the Chinese, said Federation of Chinese Physicians and Acupuncturist Associations Malaysia (FCPAAM) president Prof Dr Ng Po Kok. However, he said while TCM is an ancient treatment practised in China for thousands of years to treat various diseases and illnesses, its practitioners are not called doctors in Malaysia, although they are recognised as such overseas. “Our practice of treating patients using TCM is registered under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine (T&CM) Act 2016. “The Act allows the establishment of a T&CM Council to regulate T&CM services and provide for matters connected with it,” he said. Ng added that TCM does not focus on science and medicine. Instead, it is based on balance, harmony and energy. “TCM is more of a healing art based on the theory of yin and yang and the five elements in the human body, which are earth, water, fire, air and ether. oTreatment prevents or heals diseases by restoring balance of yin and yang based on harmony and energy, saysassociation chief █ BYTHARANI NAIR [email protected] Award-winning educator on top despite disability MALACCA: Being a person with disability (PWD) is no obstacle for Jasmi Md Tegol, 56, who has been honoured as an exemplary educator. Selected to receive the Competent Teacher Award at the 2023 Teachers’ Day Awards ceremony at the Malacca International Trade Centre in Ayer Keroh, the Malay language teacher from SMK China Lubok in Masjid Tanah, Alor Gajah expressed elation. Jasmi said being a PWD at the age of 18 months had become motivation to live life like any other person. “I consider my disability as an opportunity to be an educator and not an obstacle. The award I received is also due to this. “Although I have a problem with my left leg and have to use crutches, I am a former national paralympic athlete in badminton and have even been a national, Asian and world champion.” Jasmi received the award, a cash prize of RM3,000 and a certificate of appreciation presented by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek at the event, which was also attended by Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. Jasmi added that the award proves that PWD were also capable of being self-reliant and achieving success in their lives. Meanwhile, the recipient of the “GuruJuaraDigital” award for the Primary and Secondary School category, Mimi Norashikin Md Jani, 38, from SMK Panchor in Negeri Sembilan, said her success would encourage her to provide further opportunities and space for her students to delve into the world of robotics, Bernama reported. The Design and Technology teacher said: “I was nominated because I have managed to establish a robotics group known as ‘Tech Genius’ since I began teaching at the school in 2017. Starting with the project, there are many more innovation competitions involving environmental sustainability at the national and international level that our group has won,” said Mimi, who won cash, a certificate of appreciation and a plaque. 11 rabies cases, nine deaths recorded KUCHING: A total of 11 rabies cases among humans, including nine deaths, were reported in Sarawak from Jan 1 to May 15. Health Director-General Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said the total number of rabies cases among humans since an outbreak was declared in July 2017 was 66 cases, with 59 deaths. He said of the 11 cases reported, four each were from the Sibu and Serian division, two cases from the Kuching division and one from Bintulu division. Eight cases involved being bitten by a dog, two cases were linked to a bite or scratch by a cat, while the source of one case was undetermined. Muhammad Radzi added that rabies is a disease of the nervous system caused by the rabies virus infection. “The virus is found in the saliva of infected animals and can spread to humans through bites or during direct contact with the saliva of infected animals, either through wounds or scratches by domestic or stray cats. “It can cause death if the infection spreads to the brain,” he said. He also advised the public to take preventive measures to avoid being infected. “The wound must be washed immediately using running water and soap for at least 15 minutes and treatment sought at a health clinic or hospital.” Muhammad Radzi also said a total of 31 facilities have been equipped to provide animal bite treatment services, including the provision of anti-rabies shots. – Bernama Man held over racist rant at restaurant IPOH: Police arrested a local man who allegedly hurled racist remarks in an incident at a fast food restaurant in Falim. The incident was captured in a video that was later posted on Twitter. District police chief ACP Yahaya Hassan said the 42-year-old man was arrested in Ampang Baru at 11pm on Monday. “Police confirmed receiving a report on May 14 and the case is being investigated under Section 14 of the Minor Offences Act 1955. Following investigations, a suspect who appeared to be behaving (inappropriately) in the video was arrested,” he said. Yahaya added that the suspect tested positive for ganja and police were completing the investigation paper before referring the case to a DPP for further action. The video, lasting one minute and 18 seconds, showed the suspect, believed to be a food delivery worker, hurling abusive and racist words at a restaurant employee. – Bernama Woman detained in infant abuse probe JOHOR BAHRU: A 21-year-old woman has been detained to assist in an investigation into videos posted on social media showing two babies being physically abused in Mutiara Rini, near Skudai. State police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman Mamat said the woman was detained at 2am at Selesa Jaya in Skudai by a team from the Iskandar Puteri police headquarters Criminal Investigation Division. “On Monday, police detected two videos that lasted 48 seconds and 39 seconds showing a woman abusing babies. “Investigations found that the incident happened at a nursery, involving an 11-monthold girl and a nine-month-old boy,” he said. Kamarul Zaman added that the nursery was also found to be operating without a licence. The case is being investigated under Section 31 (1) (A) of the Child Act 2001, which provides imprisonment of 10 years or a fine of RM20,000, or both. Those with information are urged to contact investigating officer Insp Lavanya at 019-8822 403. – Bernama “Yin refers to the qi energies (life energy or vital energy) that are night, dark, cold, feminine and negative, while yang refers to qi energies that are day, light, warm, positive and male. “When one goes to a medical clinic, doctors diagnose the ailment and prescribe medication to treat it. But TCM practitioners prescribe medication for the patient’s entire well-being, so the treatment is more wholesome.” Ng said through the use of its therapeutic modalities, TCM stimulates the body’s healing mechanisms. “In TCM, an individual’s internal organs are thought of not only as individual structures but also as complex networks. According to TCM, qi flows through organ systems, such as kidneys, heart, spleen, liver, lung, gallbladder, small intestine and large intestine by way of meridians”. Ng said Chinese medicine addresses the root cause of the disease whereas Western medicine sometimes can only address the symptoms. “TCM treatment affects or changes the patient’s overall immune system. So, it can prevent future issues or recurrence of an illness that Western medicine is unable to address.” Ng added that the initial diagnosis in TCM treatment is similar to how doctors do it in a clinic. “Ancient TCM specialists have established four main diagnostic methods commonly called inspection (observation), auscultation and olfaction (listening and smelling), interrogation (inquiring or questioning), and palpation (pulse examination). “However, when they start with the diagnosis, they will examine the patient’s skin, tongue and hair, as well as other parts of the body, from the brightness of their eyes to the colour of their nails, and check six pulse points on each of the wrists. “The practitioner will also listen to the patient’s voice to assess their shen (spirit) and will work to determine if one or more of their organ networks are affected. “The practitioner then tries to correct imbalances in the body by providing a combination of therapies such as acupuncture, moxibustion and herbal medication, among others,” he said. Ng said aside from acupuncture treatment that is well-known, several other TCM treatment methods are known to be effective for certain illnesses. “Practices used in TCM include acupressure, moxibustion, burning a herb near the skin and herbal medicine, among others. These practices are also useful for obese patients and those with problems related to cholesterol, diabetes, allergies and so on,” he said. Ng added that TCM courses can be taken through local universities or universities in China that teach TCM as part of their syllabus. “In Malaysia, there are 11 universities that offer TCM courses. They include Xiamen University Malaysia, International Medical University and INTI International University. “Aside from that, FCPAAM also provides courses for TCM. We would invite TCM experts or practitioners to pass on their clinical experience to those who wish to learn and assist members to improve their academic level,” he said. SUCCESSFUL CRACKDOWN ... Penang police chief Datuk Khaw Kok Chin examining items seized from an online gambling and horse racing syndicate during a press conference at the state contingent police headquarters yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

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6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME G7 leaders meet to pressure Russia, find China unity TOKYO: The G7 leaders meet in Hiroshima this week will be looking to tighten the screws further on Russia over the Ukraine war and agree on a united line on China’s growing military and economic power. The three-day summit of leading developed democracies will cover everything from energy to AI, but a key focus will be targeting those who have helped Moscow blunt the impact of Western-led sanctions. The leaders will also chart a careful course on Beijing, projecting unity on Taiwan and emphasising the need to “de-risk” crucial supply chains by diversifying away from China, while also attempting to avoid further inflaming tensions. Last month’s G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, seen as setting the stage for the Hiroshima talks, put Beijing on notice over “militarisation activities” in the South China Sea. It also insisted there was “no change” on Taiwan policy after French President Emmanuel Macron, following a trip to Beijing last month, said Europe should avoid “crises that aren’t ours”. Ministers warned Beijing on everything from its nuclear arsenal to its business practices, and this week’s summit is expected to endorse extracting crucial supply chains from Chinese influence. Washington has taken an aggressive approach, blocking China’s access to the most advanced semiconductors and the equipment to make them, and has convinced Japan and the Netherlands to follow suit. But “this G7 is not an antiChinese G7”, an adviser to Macron told journalists before the summit. “We have a positive message for China, which is that we are ready to cooperate on condition that we negotiate together,” the adviser added. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also said this week the bloc seeks a “multifaceted approach to our economic relationships with China,” characterised by “de-risking, and not decoupling”. “We are most vulnerable to coercion, where dependencies build up. That is why we are taking action,” she added, calling critical raw materials one area for work. – AFP At least six killed in New Zealand hostel fire WELLINGTON: A fire ripped through a four-storey hostel in New Zealand’s capital in the early hours yesterday, killing at least six. Officials said they believe the toll could rise with 11 people still missing. Police said the blaze broke out on the top floor of Loafers Lodge in Newtown, causing major structural damage that is hampering recovery efforts. “There is a significant amount of debris from the roof collapse but at this stage we have located six people,” commander from the Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) Bruce Stubbs told reporters. The cause of the fire is not known but emergency services were treating the incident as suspicious. “This is a once-in-a-decade fire for oEleven still missing as structural damage hampers rescue efforts, say police Pele’s turf-lined tomb opens to public SANTOS: It is a final resting place fit for “The King”: six months after the death of the man widely considered the greatest footballer of all time, Brazil opened Pele’s gilded, footballturfed tomb to the public on Monday. Pele, who died on Dec 29 at age 82 after a battle with cancer, was laid to rest at the Ecumenical Memorial Cemetery in Santos, Brazil. It is a high-rise, 14-story mausoleum that holds the Guinness world record for the tallest cemetery on Earth. Fans were greeted by two life-size golden statues of the player nicknamed “O Rei” – The King – whose remains rest inside a large golden vault displayed in the middle of a 200sq m room, carpeted in artificial turf. “It surpassed my expectations. It is a really beautiful place,” said businessman Ronaldo Rodrigues, 44, who was first in line to visit the tomb, along with his wife. “I hope lots of tourists will come visit and get to know a little about Pele’s story, what he represented for Santos and the entire world.” Born Edson Arantes do Nascimento, Pele is the only player in history to win three World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970). Pele’s son Edinho told reporters that the family was still struggling to cope with their loss. “But we are also very proud and happy at all the affection and reverence that has kept pouring in,” he said. – AFP. MARKING BORDERS ... An undated photo released yesterday by the Philippine Coast Guard showing personnel preparing to place navigation buoys in the Philippines exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea. – AFPPIC B R I E F SEXXON SETTLES TORTURE CASE JAKARTA: Exxon Mobil Corp on Monday settled a long-running human rights lawsuit with villagers who claimed soldiers Exxon hired to guard a natural gas facility in Indonesia committed murder and torture. The two sides said in a Washington, DC, federal court filing that they had resolved the 2001 case. Agnieszka Fryszman, a lawyer for the Indonesian villagers at law firm Cohen Milstein Sellers & Toll, said the terms are confidential. A spokesperson for Exxon Mobil said the settlement “brings closure for all parties”. Fryszman said the plaintiffs, 11 villagers who were not named in court filings, broke down in tears at news of the settlement. “They have been fighting this case for 20 years against one of the world’s most powerful corporations,” Fryszman said. – Reuters COPS FIND COCAINE IN BANANA CRATES ROME: Police in southern Italy said yesterday they had seized 2,700kg of pure cocaine hidden in two containers containing bananas that had been shipped from Ecuador. The haul, found in the port of Gioia Tauro, would have been worth more than €800 million (RM3.6 billion), police said in a statement. The shipment had come from Guayaquil in Ecuador and its final destination was Armenia, via the Black Sea port of Batumi in Georgia. The drugs were discovered in 12m containers, thanks to specialised scanners, and helped by a sniffer dog. Police said they had found a further 600kg of cocaine in the last few days in fruit containers from Ecuador being shipped through Gioia Tauro. These consignments had been destined for other parts of Italy, Croatia, Greece and Georgia, they added. – Reuters Wellington. It is the worst nightmare for us,” FENZ Wellington District Commander Nick Pyatt said in a statement. “This is a tragic event for all involved. My heartfelt condolences go to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives.” Fire and Emergency deputy national commander Brendan Nally told local media: “They rescued quite a few people off the roof top.” “There were no sprinklers in the hostel,” Nally said. Loafers Lodge resident Tala Sili said he saw smoke coming under his door and opened it to find the hallway full of smoke. He decided to jump out the window onto a roof two floors below. “It was scary but I knew I had to jump or burn inside the building,” he told state-owned Radio New Zealand. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins described the fire as “tragic” to TVNZ and paid tribute to local firefighters “who have put themselves in harm’s way to get people out of the building and put the fire out”, the NZ Herald reported. “It is an absolute tragedy, and Wellington is a small, close-knit community”, he said to New Zealand’s AM show. Investigations into what caused the fire are under way, according to FENZ. Police said they will have more information after the 92-room building is safe to enter. Acting District Commander of Police Dion Bennett for the area said: “We have yet to fully reconcile a list of all the people who were here last night, who should be here or who were here as visitors.” People living in the hostel include construction workers, hospital staff and those serving sentences in the community for minor crimes. – Agencies Cyclone death toll in Myanmar rises to 41 BU MA: The death toll in cyclone-hit villages of Myanmar’s Rakhine state rose to at least 41 yesterday, local leaders told AFP. Mocha made landfall on Sunday, packing winds of up to 195km per hour, downing power pylons and smashing wooden fishing boats. “We can confirm there are 17 deaths,” Bu Ma village administrator Karlo told an AFP reporter. “There will be more deaths as more than a hundred people are missing.” The village is inhabited by the persecuted Rohingya Muslim minority. The Bu Ma number was on top of a death toll of 24 given to AFP by a Rohingya village leader in nearby Khaung Doke Kar village. That leader requested anonymity due to fear of reprisals from the country’s junta. On Monday, the junta said five people had been killed, without specifying exactly where they had died. It was not clear whether the junta’s death toll included any of those killed in Bu Ma and Khaung Doke Kar. AFP has contacted a junta spokesman for comment on the new death toll. Residents yesterday walked the seashore searching for family members swept away by a storm surge that accompanied the cyclone, AFP correspondents said. – AFP

7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 Turkiye faces historic election runoff oErdogan defies pollsters to lead comfortably in first round of election ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday emerged from his toughest election test unbowed and in strong position to extend two decades of his Islamic-rooted rule by another five years in a historic May 28 runoff. The 69-year-old leader defied pollsters and his country’s most dire economic crisis since the 1990s to come within a fraction of a percentage Russia launches raid as Kyiv readies offensive Air strikes pound Sudan despite ceasefire talks DUBAI: The Sudanese army carried out air strikes in the north of the capital Khartoum on Monday, attacking its paramilitary rivals around a hospital, that witnesses said was damaged in the bombardment. Intense battles in Khartoum and its sister cities of Bahri and Omdurman have raged despite Saudi and US-brokered talks between the army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Jeddah aimed at securing humanitarian access and a ceasefire. The fighting has spread to Darfur but has been concentrated in the capital, where RSF fighters have taken up positions across neighbourhoods and the army has used air strikes and heavy artillery fire to target them. “We are under heavy bombardment in Sharq el-Nil, and Rapid Support are responding with anti-aircraft guns,” said 55- year-old Awatef Saleh, referring to the area she lives in Bahri. “All this is happening near our homes, we are in a state of terror and fear.” In a voice message released by the RSF, its leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, dismissed rumours that he had been killed or injured in the battles. “I am moving freely around my forces,” Hemedti said. “They are spreading rumours that Mohamed Hamdan has been killed, and these are all lies that show that they are being defeated,” he said. Army chief General Abdel Fattah alBurhan and Hemedti held the top positions on Sudan’s ruling council following the 2019 overthrow of former leader Omar al-Bashir during a popular uprising, and staged a coup two years later as a deadline to hand power to civilians approached. The war began after disputes over plans for the RSF to join the army and the chain of command in a new political transition. – Reuters B R I E F SELON MUSK SUBPOENAED FOR DOCUMENTS WILMINGTON: The US Virgin Islands has subpoenaed Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk for documents in its lawsuit accusing JPMorgan Chase & Co of helping enable sexual abuses by late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The subpoena, issued on April 28, came to light on Monday in a request by the Virgin Islands to serve Musk by alternative means because it had been unable to locate him. The US territory did not seek to question Musk under oath, and its effort to subpoena him does not implicate him in any wrongdoing. According to the Monday court filing in US District Court in Manhattan, Musk, may have been referred to JPMorgan by Epstein. In a tweet late on Monday, Musk said the notion that he would listen to financial advice from Epstein was absurd. “That cretin never advised me on anything whatsoever,” he said. – Reuters ONLINE SEARCH TO MAKE UP LOST TIME WITH AI SAN FRANCISCO: Online search, dominated by Google for 25 years, has become as banal as making a phone call, but it could finally be getting a profound reset, thanks to artificial intelligence. The classic search and click made ubiquitous by the Google behemoth is getting a major AI makeover as bots ChatGPT, Bard or Bing see hundreds of millions of web surfers seek answers to life’s questions in a new way. “People are realising how they use Google search, not to find a webpage, but to answer a question,” said Chief Product Officer Stefan Sigg at Germany-based Software AG. Microsoft, considered big tech’s boring uncle, has jumped fearlessly, and some say blindly, into generative AI search, with an update to Bing. Bing’s bot, which was released worldwide after three months of testing, responds directly to a query instead of throwing out a pageful of links for the user to wade and click through. – AFP RARE DISPLAY ... Government supporters converge on Pakistan’s Supreme Court to protest the release of ex-premier Imran Khan in Islamabad on Monday. – AFPPIC point of winning Sunday’s presidential ballot. His right-wing party also retained control of parliament through an alliance with ultranationalists on a drama-filled night that concluded with Erdogan delivering a victory speech to jubilant supporters from the balcony of his party’s headquarters. “This is a meeting of lovers. We are experiencing the result of this marathon with you tonight.” He even won in regions hit by a calamitous February earthquake that claimed more than 50,000 lives – and where anger at the government’s slow response to Turkiye’s worst disaster of modern times was seething. “A staggering win for Erdogan,” emerging KYIV: Russia launched an exceptionally intense air attack on Kyiv in the early hours yesterday, using drones, cruise and probably ballistic missiles, city officials said, as the Ukrainian capital suffered its eighth air raid this month. “It was exceptional in its density – the maximum number of attack missiles in the shortest period of time,” Kyiv’s City Military Administration head Serhiy Popko said in comments posted on the Telegram. “According to preliminary information, the vast majority of enemy targets in the airspace of Kyiv were detected and destroyed,” reported Reuters. The Kyiv City Military Administration said this was the eighth attack on the capital this month “from different directions simultaneously”. The Solomyansky district of Kyiv, home to the international airport, was the most heavily damaged. According to Telegram posts by Mayor Vitali Klitschko, three people were injured. The latest attack follows Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky’s collection of a slew of fresh arms delivery pledges from Berlin, Paris and London, deepening a military arrangement between the West and Ukraine that has helped put Russia on the back foot. After his whirlwind tour of major European capitals, Zelensky tweeted on Monday night that he was “returning home with new defence packages”, reported AFP. Ukrainian forces are widely believed to be gearing up for a long-awaited counteroffensive against Russian troops, with gains already claimed around the flashpoint of Bakhmut. However, Zelensky has yet to succeed in his coveted goal of enlisting Western fighter jets to seize command of the skies, although UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced preparations to open a flight school to train Ukrainian pilots. France, too, has offered to train Ukrainian fighter pilots, though President Emmanuel Macron ruled out sending warplanes to Kyiv. And while Russia’s ally China vies to act as a peace broker, sending an envoy to Kyiv this week, Moscow’s reported attempt to acquire more drones with military collaborator Iran has caused ire in Washington. “This is a full-scale defence partnership that is harmful to Ukraine, to the region in the Middle East and to the international community,” US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Monday, adding that further sanctions will soon be announced. – Agencies AFP, friends pay tribute to slain journalist KYIV: Friends and colleagues of Arman Soldin, the AFP journalist killed last week in east Ukraine, gathered in Kyiv on Monday to commemorate his empathy, spirit and dedication to journalism. Soldin died when an AFP team came under fire by Grad rockets while they were with a group of Ukrainian soldiers, near Bakhmu. Dozens, including senior AFP management and editors, gathered for an event hosted by news agency Ukrinform, where a large banner of Soldin, 32, hung showing him smiling and wearing a helmet and body armour. AFP chairman Fabrice Fries, citing Arman’s mother, described the video journalist as “all of humanity in one man,” and noted that he had been “adored” by friends, family and colleagues. “Arman lost his life so millions of people could know what was happening in Ukraine. The memory of who Arman (was) is our pride.” AFP global news director Phil Chetwynd described Soldin as “integral” to the agency’s operations in Ukraine and credited him with helping to drive “superb” coverage. “There was nobody as brave and as committed as Arman Soldin,” Chetwynd said. “The loss of Arman is so devastating for us because he represented the very best of AFP.” Born in Bosnia, Soldin is the third French reporter to lose his life since the beginning of the Russian invasion in February 2022, advocacy groups say. “Arman’s dedication to his work was total,” said AFP editor in charge of Ukraine coverage Antoine Lambroschini. – AFP markets economist Timothy Ash said in a note to clients. “He has the magic dust at these times. And he just gets Turks – the nationalist, socially conservative and Muslim ones.” The main opposition party, led by Kemal Kilicdaroglu, confronted the reality that they were unable to beat Erdogan at one of his most vulnerable moments. “Do not despair,” Kilicdaroglu told his supporters. “We will stand up and take this election together.” Election officials confirmed that there would be a second round because the remaining uncounted votes would not swing the outcome. Erdogan secured 49.5% of the vote and Kilicdaroglu picked up 44.9%. Nationalist candidate Sinan Ogan – a former member of a far-right party now allied with the government – won 5.2%. Official turnout reached a record 88.9%. Observers from the Council of Europe said the election was “marked by an unlevel playing field but still competitive”. The outcome reflects the strong support Erdogan still commands, especially in religiously conservative regions. – Agencies

8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 SPEAK UP Why were touts operating at KLIA? I AM prompted to write after reading a recent report with the heading “KLIA ‘teksi sapu’ predators continue to fleece unsuspecting victims with cheap rides that never be”. Sadly, ever since the KL International Airport (KLIA) was officially opened on June 27, 1998, it has been plagued by touts for most of its 25 years of operations. Initially, the glass walls allowed the public to view the ongoings inside the arrival hall from all three sides and there were exits on opposing sides designed for dispersing traffic. But this created a huge problem for visitors who had arranged for transport out of the airport. Drivers assigned to pick them up were given only the flight number and name of passengers. They would wait outside the arrival hall and ask exiting passengers whether they were so and so or waved a placard showing the passenger’s name. This method, although universally practised, was not foolproof. And if passengers were to use the exit on the other side, the chances of not meeting them were high. As it was often a sea of confusion outside the arrival hall, many drivers and passengers failed to meet each other. In 2006, I was tasked by the president of a national travel association to investigate complaints that some people wearing lanyards with the association’s logo in their nametags were approaching passengers inside the arrival hall. So, I drove to KLIA to find out. On that fateful day, I witnessed more than I had expected. I spotted a man wearing a jacket, lanyard and name tag inside the arrival hall casually approaching passengers to offer assistance. To unsuspecting visitors, he looked very much like an airport official. I could see that he was targeting foreign tourists and at times the logo of the travel association could be seen on the name tag. Although the arrival hall was out of bounds to the public, he managed to enter the restricted area and carry on with his antics with impunity. What happened next left me wondering whether to laugh or cry. It was also the very day that an policeman and policewoman were putting up posters on the walls and pillars inside the arrival hall with the words “Beware of touts”. In later years, I often read reports that entire teams of police personnel stationed at KLIA were transferred out. Where illegal activities are rife, it was likely that the local police had a hand in it. Over the years, the Road Transport Department carried out enforcement operations just outside KLIA such as checking on taxis leaving the airport. Taxi services from KLIA were monopolised until city taxis were allowed to pick up passengers on May 15, 2013. I drove premier and budget taxis from 2000 to 2010. When dropping off passengers at KLIA, I was often approached by touts about whether I wished to pick up their passengers and send them to the city, which I always declined and preferred to drive back empty. Instead of waiting for illegal activities to occur and for enforcement officers to act, it would be better for the airport operator to nip touting in the bud. Except for Senai International Airport, all other airports in the country are operated by Malaysia Airport Holdings Berhad (MAHB). As all airports are high-security areas, there are countless closedcircuit television cameras for monitoring and recording. But why is it that MAHB does not seem to be alarmed by the presence of touts and arriving passengers being harassed by them? It was an ugly sight, but the authorities seemed unperturbed. The touts appeared confident as if they were operating in their own backyard. But if touting is captured by cameras and the image is shown live on a giant screen for all to view, it would send touts scurrying like rats. The most accurate litmus tests of our country can be conducted at KLIA, and touting is one of them. We either pass or fail, regardless of the accolades or claims we like to make. The homepage of MAHB’s website currently proclaims that “KLIA Moves Up To Be World’s Top 9 Airport In Q1 2021”. But what is not shown is “Skytrax’s World’s Top 100 Airports for 2023”. The terminal had dropped five spots to 67th place. Touting will disappear and KLIA will start climbing up to being among the top airports in the world if MAHB could confront and address this problem. YS Chan is a master trainer for Mesra Malaysia and Travel and Tours Enhancement Course as well as an Asean Tourism Master Trainer. He is also a transport and training consultant and writer. Comments: [email protected] An effective government, citizen partnership LOCAL authorities are the level of government closest to the people. They are the managers of urban environments while the communities are the stakeholders. All local councils must therefore be accountable, transparent and efficient. They need to take steps to ensure transparency and all their personnel, including enforcement officers, must carry out their duties professionally, fairly and justly with integrity. With each passing day, the local government becomes more and more significant in terms of acquiring the capacity to deal with the many issues and finding quick and effective answers to community needs and services. Local government, instead of being the lowest level of government, should become the highest in terms of the people’s need for services. All local authorities should strive to give their best services and be accountable to the people they serve. In particular, they must embrace and implement a good maintenance culture in the interest of public safety. Equally important is good governance. Good governance requires public engagement, wide participation and discussion involving not only government agencies but also diverse representatives from NGOs and civil groups. Participation by all stakeholders is a cornerstone of good governance. And stakeholder involvement is vital for local authorities to work to bridge the huge divide between citizens and local authorities all over the country. What is needed is a new citizen-government partnership to include eminent individuals, professional bodies and NGOs to provide input into the management of our local authorities. Involving citizens at the grassroots level is a key ingredient of good governance. This is more so when we do not have elected local councils. Only genuine stakeholder involvement can give the people what they want for their cities. Citizen participation is also vital for good governance to create a society where the government gains and holds the confidence of the people. If those in power are serious about the government-citizen partnership, they must invest substantially in time and effort to involve the stakeholders of our cities. Urban issues relating to the process of globalisation, environmental problems, urban poverty, urban sustainability, the issue of urban governance and how to improve the quality of urban life are among the many issues that need to be addressed effectively. With such complex issues arising from urbanisation, it is time for the government to set up an Institute for Urban Governance which can function as a national resource and training centre for urban governance and development. It can help to facilitate research activities, provide support to academicians and individuals to undertake research and provide consultancy on urban issues. The proposed institute can also provide support and policy advice to the government in urban governance, development and management. Urbanisation should lead to community spirit building. Where new urban centres are built, pro-active efforts must be taken to build a sense of community and belonging among the multi-ethnic residents which will be beneficial to our multiracial country in terms of generating goodwill, togetherness and unity. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Chairman Alliance For A Safe Community COMMENT by YS Chan LETTERS [email protected] Ever since KLIA was officially opened on June 27, 1998, it has been plagued by touts for most of its 25 years of operations. – ZULFADHLI ZAKI/THESUN

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 Road accidents, is there a solution? GLOBALLY, road traffic injuries are the leading cause of death for children and young adults aged five to 29 and the eighth leading cause of death for people of all ages. The Statistics Department of Malaysia reported that in 2021 transport accidents were among the top five contributors to death apart from chronic diseases such as ischaemic heart diseases, pneumonia, cerebrovascular diseases and malignant neoplasm of trachea bronchus and lung. It was surprising to note that for the first time in 2021, the vehicle population in Malaysia outpaced the human population. The country’s population was recorded at 32.5 million in 2019 and increased between 300,000 and 400,000 annually, bringing it to about 32.6 million in 2021. Meanwhile, the vehicle population in 2019 was 31.2 million and subsequently increased by one million every year, and in 2021 it was registered at 33.3 million. There is no doubt that people will be facing more traffic congestion if the trends continue for years ahead. Road accidents are much related to road safety issues, which are not solely the responsibility of the Transport Ministry (MOT). Rather it is a shared responsibility and improvement efforts must be reflected across the government agencies in addressing the issues. A report by the MOT identified an average of 18 people were killed in road accidents daily. Road accidents are a serious public health challenge for the nation, warranting an effective policy response. Furthermore, motorcyclists make up the highest number of road fatalities at 59%, according to the latest Malaysia Road Fatalities Index figures between 2010 and 2019. Secondly, 21% of fatalities were attributed to passenger cars among various road users. Approximately 1.35 million Malaysians died in road crashes each year from the period of 2010 to 2019. On average 3,700 people lost their lives every day on the roads. According to the Royal Malaysian Police, 418,237 road accidents were reported in 2020 despite the movement control order during the Covid-19 pandemic. Although the number of vehicles has been reduced on the road due to travel restrictions, thus, reducing the number of accidents, it does not prevent road users from driving at high speed which has been identified as one of the main contributors to fatal accidents. Road traffic injuries are said to cause considerable economic losses to individuals, their families and nations as a whole. Based on the value of the statistical life year of 2018 by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research, the government has lost at least RM3.12 million for each life. The Transport Ministry reported that the most critical issue contributing to road accidents is human behaviour and negligence at 80.6% compared with road infrastructure including the surrounding and vehicle factor which contributed 13.2% and 6.2%, respectively. The ministry further admitted that road safety campaigns failed to achieve the goal of reducing the accident rate. The first Malaysia Road Safety Plan (MRSP) 2006 to 2010 has been introduced by the ministry as an effort to address road safety issues in Malaysia, with the main objectives being to set a direction, focus areas and strategic planning to handle road safety issues, especially from the aspect of reducing road fatalities. The Plan focused on the concept of 4E which are education, enforcement, engineering and environment. The second MRSP 2014 to 2020 was developed as a continuation of the previous MRSP and was based on five strategic pillars, which are road safety management, safer roads and mobility, safer vehicle, safer road user and post-crash response. The third MRSP 2022 to 2030 is based on the experiences of the two previous MRSPs and the basic framework of the Global Road Safety Decade Action Plan from 2011 to 2020. Additionally, the current issues related to road safety at the Malaysian level are the foundation for developing the overall structure of MRSP from 2022 to 2030. The third MRSP outlined a framework containing 10 priority areas that focuses on improving road safety in Malaysia. Those priority areas were adapted from the five strategic pillars of road safety set by the United Nations which are road safety management, safer vehicles, safer road users, post-crash response and safer driving environments. Worldwide, the overall ranking of countries’ fatality rates has not changed significantly since prior to the pandemic, with the safest roads in Sweden (21 deaths per one million inhabitants) and Denmark (26/million) while Romania (86/million) and Bulgaria (78/million) reported the highest rates in 2022. The European Union has set a target of a 50% reduction in road deaths and also serious injuries by 2030. This was set out in the Commission’s Strategic Action Plan on Road Safety and EU road safety policy framework 2021 to 2030, which also laid out road safety plans aiming to reach zero road deaths by 2050 (Vision Zero). Vision Zero is a multinational road traffic safety project that aims to achieve a roadway system with no fatalities or serious injuries involving road traffic. It was started in Sweden in October 1997. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, the road safety policy is guided by a philosophy of sustainable road safety based on several key concepts, including that a human being is the reference standard and prevention is preferable to a curative approach. The five safety principles are 1) road functionality, 2) homogeneity of mass and/or speed and direction, 3) physical and social tolerance, 4) recognition and predictability of roads; and 5) behaviour and state of awareness. In Australia, the government aims to deliver significant reductions in road trauma together with the communities through the National Road Safety Strategy 2021 to 2030 which will put direction on a path to Vision Zero. Meanwhile, the National Road Safety Action Plan 2023 to 2025 (Action Plan) is the first Action Plan for the strategy. This Action Plan outlines the actions the Australian, state and territory governments will take to implement the Strategy in 2025. Overall road safety improvement is not something that just happens or comes into being as a result of, for instance, free market processes. Better road safety requires structures, institutions and organisations, and many parties may play a role, whether public and private parties or social organisations. The issue is further complicated because it is not only a topic with its own sector, it is also an aspect of other policy areas such as public health policies, land-use planning, policies for senior citizens and so on. Since road safety is a multidisciplinary and multivariate scientific field, every proposed action and measure should be developed and supported through strategies in the areas of engineering, enforcement, education and emergency medical services, taking into consideration social and economic aspects as well. However, the implementation of certain countermeasures does not provide any real benefit in terms of crash reduction if the proposed action is not based on thorough road safety engineering experience and practice. However, tools do not create a road safety future, but trained professionals do. A robust educational curriculum is the only means to communicate the necessary insights and knowledge within the constantly evolving environment of road safety. Within this, the Centre for Transportation Research in Universiti Malaya took the initiative to introduce a new Master’s programme by coursework, Master of Road Safety Engineering, with the first intake in October. All subjects, such as traffic engineering and safety, road safety management, road safety audit and traffic risk analysis and human behaviour in road safety - to name a few - are relevant to the issues. The Master of Road Safety Engineering is a programme that is relevant to the country’s current needs in dealing with road safety issues. The focus of the programme is to provide indepth knowledge and exposure to theoretical and practical learning in road safety. The syllabus for the course offered will be evaluated from time to time according to the needs of the industry and sector related to the application of impactful education practices. Thewriters are from the Centre for Transportation Research, Universiti Malaya. Comments: [email protected] “Better road safety requires structures, institutions and organisations, and many parties may play a role, whether public and private parties or social organisations. Is increasing EPF contribution by employers the only option? IN response to Uni Malaysia Labour Centre (Uni-MLC) who had reportedly urged the government to increase the employers’ EPF contribution to 20% from the current 13% for those earning RM4,000 and below, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would discuss the proposal and bring the matter to the Cabinet. Since then, the issue has received many comments from various parties, including employers such as the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Malaysian Employers Federation, SME Association of Malaysia as well as others including economists and academics. As usual, there are pros and cons to the suggestions. Before any decision is made by the government, lawmakers should look and tackle the issue diligently by considering the impact of the decisions (short and long term) on whole communities (employers, employees and the public) as well as the economy as a whole. Whatever decisions are to be made, be they accepting or rejecting the proposal, would have the chain-effects on the business communities, employees, the general public and the country’s economies. Employers and their associations argue that the increase in the EPF contribution would burden them, especially the SMEs since many of them have yet to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. In addition, the recent government decision to increase the minimum wage from RM1,200 to RM1,500 has also affected businesses. If the government insists on the additional EPF contribution, chances are that costs will be passed on to consumers, which in turn increases inflation further. This will surely hurt the people and the economy. From an employee’s perspective, the increase in the employers’ EPF contribution will boost employees’ retirement funds, as claimed by Uni-MLC. However, some view that in any case, a higher contribution to the EPF does not resolve the current predicament faced by lower-income workers, especially the B40 group. The two years of the Covid-19 pandemic forced many from the lower-income groups to exhaust their EPF savings. I am of the opinion that instead of relying on EPF savings, which are meant for their retirement, employees should have practised some “financial discipline” from the beginning of their employment or at a young age. Financial discipline here means that they should learn and exercise financial planning for their lives and should be prepared for that rainy day. Nevertheless, it is understood that not all people are financially literate and fortunate enough to secure any formal jobs, especially during those years. Recently, there have been efforts by the government, NGOs as well as professional bodies or associations to educate the public on financial planning or financial literacy. At higher learning institutions, for example, the Counselling and Credit Management Agency modules are made compulsory, to educate students to be at least aware and be able to manage their finances. On the other hand, some economists such as Professor Dr K. Kuperan from Universiti Utara Malaysia argued that it is a good idea to increase the employer’s share of EPF contributions due to the low savings among the majority of contributors. Furthermore, employers can use the increase in EPF contributions to claim tax deductions. From the government’s perspective, they can borrow the additional contributions for development purposes. In my view, being a government, they need to rationalise and be able to strike a balance between the continuity and survival of businesses, the pressures from unions or employees as well as the country’s economies. There are a few suggestions that may be considered by the government before making its stand on this issue: 0 Firstly, it is better for the government to create more high-value jobs and industries instead of harping on the existing EPF contribution. This way, it will create more employment for the rakyat and further enhance the country’s economy. 0 Secondly, if it were to increase the EPF contribution by employers, it should not be up to 20% since it is a jump of 7% from the current contribution, it would surely hurt many businesses. The increment can be done at a lower amount and with gradual implementation over a certain number of years. This will enable businesses to adjust and absorb the increment as part of their costs. 0 Thirdly, encourage and educate Malaysians to better manage their finances and instil some financial discipline among the public. This initiative could commence as early as during primary school if not at kindergarten. This long-term initiative would see more resilient populations in the future face any financial challenges. 0 Lastly, government and the public should think of other ways to overcome the issue of high cost of living and insufficient funds to survive in the current economy and not use the EPF savings, unless absolutely necessary. Looking back at the original intention or objective, contributing to EPF is to prepare and cater for the post-employment (retirement) or contingencies only. The writer is the dean of Uniten Business School, Universiti Tenaga Nasional. Comments: [email protected] COMMENT by Assoc Prof Dr Amanuddin Shamsuddin COMMENT by Nik Ibtishamiah Ibrahim and Dr Yuen Choon Wah

10 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 MEDIA & MARKETING TikTok celebrates its community TIKTOK recently gathered creators from the Malaysian TikTok community for a night of inspiration and celebration at the #InspirasiRaya event. Darren Quek, Strategy Operations Manager, Malaysia, TikTok, said: “TikTok is an immersive, entertaining platform that enables everyone to connect with diverse communities. During the Ramadan and Raya season, we have seen our communities inspiring each other with the hashtags #InspirasiRamadan and #InspirasiRaya which garnered over 6.5 billion views collectively as of today. “We believe that with the diversity of experiences, communities, and content, users can build connection and understanding with each other through the shared language of video, during the festive season and beyond. “That is why through the #InspirasiRaya Open House, we are glad to be able to bring our community together, to celebrate the diversity and encourage them to continue inspiring the community through their authenticity and experiences.” During the event, guests were treated to performances by local artistes such as The Gadys, Insomniacks, Aziz Harun, Iman Troye, Hafiz Along, Gary and Hannanxal. As a community-first platform, TikTok is committed to inspiring creativity and bringing joy. This is made possible not only through its users who consume and interact with the wide variety of content on the platform, but also creators who share their lives on the platform. This is seen especially through TikTok Creators gathered at the #InspirasiRaya TikTok Open House event. TikTok Creators and TikTok Malaysia reps posing for a picture at the #InspirasiRaya Open House event. videos posted during the festive season like Khairul Aming’s 30-day Raya recipe, and Auntie Purple’s 30 Days 30 Purple content. Beyond videos, TikTok Shop also saw a surge in activity during the Ramadan Raya period, particularly during the Mega Raya Fest 2023. With TikTok Shop’s firstever LIVE selling showcase where sellers carried out in a physical event setting, over 300 sellers displayed their diverse livestreaming approach, while other sellers witnessed first-hand how simple and budget-friendly it can be to generate significant traffic on TikTok. Download or open the TikTok app today to check out the event highlights from TikTok #InspirasiRaya Open House and keep up with the top local creators like @khairulaming, @dearcarynn, @imantroye, @auntiepurple248, @hafizalonggs, among others! TikTok is available for free on iOS and Android via the Apple Store, Google Play Store and Huawei AppGallery. MSU, UNISMA expanding cooperation MANAGEMENT and Science University (MSU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA), Indonesia. Aimed at expanding cooperation and facilitating the exchange of ideas in areas of mutual interest, the MoU counts joint development of research projects, organization of scientific as well as cultural events, and dual as well as double degree programmes between the two universities among its objectives. Representing Management and Science University (MSU) was MSU President Professor Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Dr Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid, whilst signing for UNISMA was its Rector Professor Dr H. Masykuri Bakri. MSU recently launched its Jakarta campus and double degree programme. Launching the MSU Shah Alam and MSU Jakarta Dual Campus as well as the MU Double Degree Programme between MSU Malaysia, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), and Jakarta Global University (JGU) was Malaysia Minister of Higher Education Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. Whilst MSU Dual Campus facilitates seamless international learning experiences to students attending both the MSU Shah Alam and the MSU Jakarta campuses, MSU Double Degree Programme offers two degrees from two universities in the three-university programme. Other programmes offering international learning experiences at MSU include the MSU Global Mobility Programme (GMP), the MSU Global Internship Programme (GIP), and the MSU Global Leadership Programme (GLP). The mobility programmes offered are the Global Mobility Programme (GMP); where students can live and study abroad for one semester or two at any one of over 150 partner universities, the Global Leadership Programme (GLP); discover new places, make international friends, or engage with international communities and Global Internship Programme (GIP); work alongside global professionals via placements with industry partners onboard. With an increasingly globalized world, global mobility exposure is more important than ever. It is no doubt MSU graduates remain the popular choice among employers, with the help of MSU’s global mobility programmes. MSU’s mission for excellence is benchmarked by internationalization, industry employability, entrepreneurship, community sustainability, research, lifelong learning, and flexible education with a 97.5% of graduate’s employability rate, ranked by Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education Blending technical vocational education and training (TVET) with traditional academic curricula, MSU enhances competencies with industry internship, community and creative entrepreneurship, as well as global exposure; empowering MSU graduates with the well-roundedness desired and sought after by employers. Further, various skills enhancement programmes which are aimed to improve student’s competitiveness are offered to students. The Graduate Employability Skills (GEmS) and Personal Enrichment Competencies (PEC) programme at MSU serves to improve the students’ soft skills. MSU is a Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) and multi-global-ranked institution focused on building holistic human capital. Envisioning a better, more sustainable future for all, we champion equality by providing a level playing field across extensive efforts in transforming lives and enriching futures. MSU currently ranks in the Top 100 among the world’s top young universities; Top 200 among Asia’s best universities; Top 30 among Southeast Asia’s best universities; Top 301+ for Graduate Employability Ranking as well as Top 401+ for Times Higher Education University Impact. MSU has also been awarded QSrated 5-Stars on the metrics of Overall as well as Teaching, Graduate Employability, Academic Development, Internationalization, Hospitality and Leisure Management, Online Learning, Social Responsibility and Inclusiveness. For further information regarding the courses offered at MSU, please communicate with the Engagement and Enrolment Department at 03 – 55216868. Additional information can also be obtained by viewing the website at msu.edu.my. Smart collaboration ... representing MSU was MSU President Professor Tan Sri Dr Mohd Shukri, whilst signing for UNISMA was its Rector Professor Dr H. Masykuri.

KLCI 1,423.50 6.13 STI 3,214.04 HANG SENG 19,978.25 7.12 SCI 3,290.99 0.89 NIKKEI 29,842.99 0.68 TSEC 15,673.90 198.85 KOSPI 2,480.24 S&P/ASX200 7,234.70 216.65 WEDNESDAY MAY 17, 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 16, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) VINVEST 331,704,500 8.5 -9.5 DNEX 113,383,500 47.0 +4.5 FITTERS 106,261,900 5.0 UNCH HSI-CLQ 74,123,600 13.0 -2.0 TWL-WD 60,007,100 1.0 -0.5 EXCHANGERATES MAY 16, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.5590 4.4250 4.4210 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0740 2.9520 2.9320 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4120 3.3130 3.3060 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3820 3.2920 3.2730 1 EURO 4.9670 4.8070 4.7910 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8610 2.7550 2.7120 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4120 3.3130 3.3070 1 STERLING POUND 5.7190 5.5380 5.5030 1 SWISS FRANC 5.0780 4.9610 4.9410 100 UAE DIRHAM 125.6200 119.1100 118.8700 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.2980 4.0320 3.8480 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 65.6000 63.1000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 58.7900 55.8700 55.6100 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.6400 5.2900 5.0900 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0319 0.0289 0.0239 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3570 3.2510 3.2450 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 15.9000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.6300 1.5200 1.3400 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.2600 7.7800 7.6000 100 QATAR RIYAL 126.5300 120.1200 119.8200 100 SAUDI RIYAL 122.9400 116.7100 116.4500 100 THAI BAHT 14.1200 12.5200 12.0700 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY May 16, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,419.30 +42.75 FBMKLCI 1,423.50 +6.13 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 572.11 -0.21 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 166.74 +1.02 CONSTRUCTION 159.74 -1.01 FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,531.10 +41.75 ENERGY 833.94 +6.55 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 610.00 -3.43 HEALTH CARE 1,823.01 +22.80 TRANSPORTATION 901.80 +2.13 PROPERTY 691.08 -0.49 PLANTATION 6,933.72 +42.00 FBMSHA 10,779.30 +51.84 FBMACE 5,000.57 +19.56 TECHNOLOGY 58.81 +0.28 TURNOVER VALUE 2.570 BIL RM1.509 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS May 16, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM KLK 1,056,400 22.50 +0.28 BAT 168,900 10.86 +0.24 TENAGA 8,844,600 9.73 +0.21 MPI 253,100 27.60 +0.14 OPPSTAR 3,271,400 1.88 +0.13 5 TOP LOSERS May 16, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM NESTLE 39,900 134.40 -0.60 NSOP 2,100 3.45 -0.15 KLUANG 100 3.66 -0.14 F&N 574,900 26.88 -0.12 SP500-C24 1,400 0.115 -0.115 MARC sees 2023 corporate bond, sukuk issuances at RM90-100b PETALING JAYA: Malaysian Rating Corporation Bhd (MARC) expects Malaysia’s corporate bond and sukuk issuances for this year to hover in the range of RM90 billion to RM100 billion. Group CEO Datuk Jamaludin Nasir said the rating agency expected the bond and sukuk capital market to be challenging this year after achieving an issuance totalling RM120 billion last year. “Among these challenges include the economic conditions and global trends that can significantly impact capital markets,” he told reporters at Lead Managers League Tables award ceremony yesterday. “Changes in regulations also have a profound impact on capital markets,” he said. Jamaludin said the upcoming regulatory reforms or shifts in policies might also introduce new compliance requirements and alter the operating landscape. “In comparison to the regional market, Malaysia’s bond market has always been the more advanced and obviously a lot more competitive, whereby, project sponsors will be able to achieve long-term financing project from our market,” he added. KAB in MoU to explore regional green energy deals PETALING JAYA: One-stop engineering and energy solutions provider Kejuruteraan Asastera Bhd’s (KAB) wholly owned subsidiary, KAB Energy Holdings Sdn Bhd, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC Group) subsidiary PT CNEC Engineering Indonesia (PT CNEC) and Transcend Global Limited (TGL) to jointly explore potential sustainable energy solutions projects regionally. PT CNEC has extensive expertise in constructing nuclear energy power plants, LNG terminals, fuel tank farms, mining operations and alternative power generation plants while TGL, an investment holding company associated with the Regional Green Fund, specialises in investment holding, energy product trading, leasing heavy equipment and machinery, merger and acquisition activities, and investment in high-growth industries. Together, KAB Energy and PT CNEC will collaborate to identify and develop proposed projects while TGL will assist in conducting financial feasibility studies for shortlisted projects and facilitate the merger and acquisition of project special purpose vehicles. KAB group managing director Datuk Lai Keng Onn said: “We are delighted to embark on this collaborative endeavour with PT CNEC and TGL. Under the MoU, all parties will leverage its combined expertise to provide businesses regionally with engineering solutions for sustainable, green, and clean energy.” From left: Lai, PT CNEC president director Wu Xi Nan and TGL chief executive director Sharifah Azzuwati Syed Mohamad at the MoU signing ceremony. Centre to create ecosystem, talent supply chain for 4IR KUALA LUMPUR: The establishment of the Malaysia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Malaysia Centre for 4IR) is important to create a continuous ecosystem and talent supply chain to spur domestic direct investment (DDI). Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the Malaysia Centre for 4IR is not only able to attract foreign direct investment, but will also draw interest from multinational companies to invest in the country. “The centre is more for domestic players oIt will spur domestic direct investment and attract multinational companies: Tengku Zafrul 19.75 32.40 also (DDI), as when the industry players come in, the multinationals will come in too. “They require the right ecosystem to assist them ... that means the right ecosystem and cluster to support the big multinationals so that the small and medium enterprises and mid-size companies can carry out supply, services, maintenance, and others. “I think it is important for our industry to be ready because when the investment comes in and when the large domestic investors continue to invest, we want the whole ecosystem and supply chain, especially SMEs, to be involved,” he told the media at the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry’s Aidilfitri open house yesterday. On Monday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the establishment of the Malaysia Centre for 4IR, an independent centre within the World Economic Forum global ecosystem focusing on two priorities – digital transformation and GovTech, and energy transition. The centre is the first in the Asean region that will become the platform to bring together government and business leaders, academics, and experts to create a hub of innovation and expertise to unlock the potential of emerging technologies. On digital transformation and GovTech, the centre, which is hosted by MyDigital Corporation, will focus on areas to accelerate the next phase of growth for Malaysia’s agenda and the role that it can play to facilitate regional efforts with regard to Asean. Besides that, the centre will support Malaysia’s Energy Policy 2022-2040 to navigate energy transition and the development of green economy while balancing issues such as energy security, affordability and environmental sustainability. – Bernama KAB will propose projects for a joint review with PT CNEC to assess their feasibility. Additionally, the group will contribute its technical expertise, advice and experience for the feasibility studies. The proposed projects span across Asia including a 100MW solar system in Thailand, the development of a wind farm, desalination and water treatment plant in the Philippines, development of captive power plants in Malaysia, and initiatives such as irradiation plant, machinery and equipment leasing, mini-liquefied natural gas terminal, and trading of materials and equipment in Indonesia, Lai said in a statement. Participation 45.6 28.2 26.2 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 741.2 408.7 360.1 1510.0 Sold RM m 636.0 443.2 430.8 1510.0 Net RM m 105.2 -34.5 -70.7 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) 16/05/2023

12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 SUNBIZ READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME Malaysia’s 2023 real GDP growth forecast upgraded PETALING JAYA: BMI, a Fitch Solutions company, has revised its forecast for Malaysia’s real gross domestic product (GDP) growth this year to 4.2% from 4.0% previously, attributed to the betterthan-expected 5.6% year on year (yo-y) expansion in the first quarter. Based on its recent outlook report on Malaysia, BMI said its forecast still implies that growth will slow over the coming quarters, which it anticipates will be driven by a slowdown in global demand and tighter credit conditions. It said the official data released on May 12 showed Malaysia’s real GDP expanding by 5.6% in Q1’23, which it remarked was well above The research house said it expects private consumption to grow by 5.0% in 2023, easing significantly from 11.3% in 2022. – BERNAMAPIC oFitch Solutions arm BMI lifts projection to 4.2% but cautions it still implies slower expansion in coming quarters consensus and its expectations of 4.8%. “However, the picture is by no means upbeat. The latest figures still correspond to a sharp slowdown, from 7.1% y-o-y in Q4’22. “On a seasonally adjusted basis, the 0.9% quarter-on-quarter rebound is nowhere large enough to reverse the contraction of 1.7% in Q4’22,” BMI said in a statement. In addition, the research house said it expects private consumption to grow by 5.0% in 2023, easing significantly from 11.3% in 2022 due to a decline in household savings and tighter monetary conditions. “The boost received in (the second half of 2022) H2’22 stemming from base effects and pent-up demand following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions have eased and households have since drawn down their savings significantly since April 2022,” it added. The research arm cited the recent announcement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim that Employee Provident Fund withdrawals – which were allowed during the Covid pandemic – are no longer permitted. “Along with Bank Negara Malaysia’s cumulative 125 basis point hike since 2022, we expect private consumption to slow further in the coming quarters,” it said. On expenditure contribution in Malaysia, BMI said the growth slowdown in Q1’23 was broadbased, with exports the biggest drag on the economy, which plunged from growth of 8.6% y-o-y in Q4’22 to a 3.3% contraction in Q1’23. “Government consumption swung from growth of 3.0% y-o-y to a 2.2% contraction. Meanwhile, private consumption slowed from 7.3% y-o-y to 5.9%, while gross fixed capital formation decelerated from 8.8% to 4.9%,” it noted. BMI opined that the impact of high borrowing costs will also be felt by businesses, which underpins its forecast for investment growth to slow to 2.3% of GDP in 2023, from 7.5% in 2022. It cited Malaysia’s manufacturing purchasing managers’ index, which came in at 48.8 in April, marking the eighth consecutive month in which the reading has stayed below the 50.0 mark that separates contraction from expansion. Adding to that, “business tendency survey has remained below 2022 levels and suggests that sentiment remains weak”. Meanwhile, BMI expects export growth to slow to 1.0% in 2023 from 12.8% in 2022 amid a slowdown in the global economy. Malaysian data centre market to experience strong growth: Juwai IQI PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has emerged as a leading player in the global data centre market, attracting billions of dollars of investment from global technology companies, according to Juwai IQI, Asia’s largest real estate technology company. In the forecast for the data centre market in the country report released yesterday, Juwai IQI co-founder and group CEO Kashif Ansari said the Covid-19 pandemic had altered the dynamics of cloud based tools. “The pandemic has made broadband connectivity and cloudbased productivity tools more important than ever in the daily lives of Malaysians. And the reshuffling of supply chains during reduced business travel has made cloudbased tools and services a more critical element of economic growth than before the pandemic,” said Ansari. He added that these two factors underlie the growing demand for data centres, which make cloudbased services possible. There are already 33 data centres in Malaysia, with at least a dozen more in the development pipeline. Cyberjaya, Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are by far the top locations for data centres, followed by Johor. “Malaysia has emerged as a top Asia-Pacific region (Apac) data centre market because of supportive government policy, high levels of connectivity, a large population, abundant cost competitive land, inexpensive sustainable energy, and its geographical position at the heart of Asean and next-door to Singapore,” Ansari explained. The report by Juwai IQI also highlighted the fact that Malaysia has a significant advantage over other markets when it comes to land costs. Johor and Kuala Lumpur have the lowest land costs among the top markets in Apac. Land in Johor and Kuala Lumpur can be acquired for data centres at about one-quarter the cost of comparable land in the world’s number 1 data centre market, which is northern Virginia, in the US. “Data centre operators are under constant pressure to reduce their energy usage costs and environmental impact. Malaysia has an advantage in both energy and land. “Malaysia is attractive because green energy will account for approximately 40% of all power generation by 2035. Also, in other key data centre markets across the globe, utility costs are expected to rise by a median of 16% in the years ahead,” Ansari said. The report also stated that Australian data centre operator NEXTDC said it will accelerate its expansion plans in Malaysia, and is raising US$419.2 million (RM1.8 billion) in part to do so. Energy Asia 2023 to chart pathways for net zero future PETALING JAYA: Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) will host the inaugural Energy Asia 2023 conference themed “Charting Pathways for a Sustainable Asia” from June 26 to 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. Co-created with Knowledge Partner, CERAWeek by S&P Global, the conference will discuss – alongside world’s leading industry leaders, experts, investors, and policymakers – on how Asia can accelerate low-carbon pathways and unleash new potentials for the region’s energy sector. The event is set to attract over 2,000 delegates from around the world, including leaders from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, International Renewable Energy Agency, International Association of Oil and Gas Producers, as well as a diverse range of senior officials and industry leaders. Petronas president and Group CEO and chairman of Energy Asia, Datuk Tengku Muhammad Taufik, said, “Energy Asia comes at a critical time for Asia’s energy future. Asia accounts for half of the world’s GHG emissions, and its successful transition to net zero can be an impetus for the world to reach net zero. While emissions will need drastic reduction, the region’s energy system transformation will need to be holistic, responsible, and carefully planned which we hope to achieve at Energy Asia.” Samchem posts RM6.54 million net profit for first quarter, declares 0.5 sen dividend PETALING JAYA: Integrated chemicals and lubricants distributor Samchem Holdings Bhd registered a profit after tax and minority interest (patami) of RM6.54 million on the back of revenue of RM225.39 million for the first quarter ended March 31 2023 (Q1’23). The company returned to profitability after recording a loss of RM2.13 million in the previous quarter. It has declared a first interim dividend of 0.5 sen per ordinary share. The better results were brought about by stabilising average selling prices (ASP) in a tough operating environment. “The chemicals industry has encountered significant challenges in recent months, driven by lingering concerns of a potential recession and a slower-thananticipated demand uplift despite China’s reopening, which has led to cautious inventory strategies being adopted by our customers. Despite facing headwinds, we reported a commendable patami of RM6.54 million in Q1 2023. We are encouraged by the recent stabilisation of the ASP, offering respite amidst the prevailing conditions,” Samchem executive chairman Ng Thin Poh said in a statement He said its Malaysian operations displayed exceptional resilience during this period, demonstrating volume growth compared with the previous quarter. “The commencement of operations at our new warehouse in Pulau Indah this month is timely, and we are excited about the opportunities it presents to further enhance our presence and solidify our foothold in Malaysia. With more than three decades of track record, we are confident of our ability to navigate the evolving market landscape and drive continued success for Samchem,” Ng added. B R I E F SPUBLIC BANK ENABLES CROSS-BORDER QR PAYMENTS WITH S’PORE PETALING JAYA: Public Bank customers can now perform instant QR payments using its PB engage mobile application for retail transactions with Singapore merchants while PBe QR merchants are also able to receive QR payments from individuals from Singapore with the extension of the DuitNow QR Cross Border Payment Services. This latest extension to Singapore since March 2023 marks a new milestone for Public Bank’s continuous support for the nation’s endeavour of providing cross-border payment connectivity with other countries, it said in a statement. SC SEEKS FEEDBACK FROM PUBLIC FOR CMSA REVIEW PETALING JAYA: In seeking to ensure that securities laws remain fit-forpurpose, the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) is undertaking a holistic review of the Capital Markets and Services Act 2007 (CMSA), a key legislation that regulates the Malaysian capital market. The SC is requesting public for feedback on parts and areas under the CMSA relating to product governance, disclosure, the approval process for corporate proposals and takeovers. Interested parties and members of the public can submit their comments, feedback and queries to the commission by June 16 at [email protected].

theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 13 City University of Hong Kong launches HK Tech 300 SEA Competition KUALA LUMPUR: City University of Hong Kong launched its inaugural HK Tech 300 Southeast Asia Start-Up Competition (HK Tech 300 SEA Competition), in a glittering ceremony here honored by Malaysian government officials, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), eminent SEA partner universities and local chambers of commerce. Building on the success of HK Tech 300, a flagship innovation and entrepreneurship programme in Hong Kong with a total commitment of HK$600 million (MYR340 million), the programme has now expanded to SEA. “We are thrilled to expand our successful HK Tech 300 initiative to SEA,” said Professor Way Kuo, Emeritus President and University Distinguished Professor at City University of Hong Kong. “This Competition presents a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region to gain exposure and secure funding for their project, and will help translate City University of Hong Kong’s outstanding research into applications, which can have a transformative impact on the entrepreneurship landscape here.” “We are excited to witness the positive impact of HK Tech 300 on the region and are committed to supporting and empowering innovative ideas in this part of the world,” said Professor Way Kuo. The HK Tech 300 SEA Competition, to be held in partnership with prestigious universities and incubators in the region, including Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) from Brunei, Chulalongkorn University from Thailand, MDEC, Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (SIDEC), and chambers of commerce, for the first time in this part of Asia. Through the various partners and organizations, the Competition is aimed at attracting the best start-ups and talent in the region. The top 10 winners will be the recipients of an Angel Fund Investment of up to HK$1 million (MYR565,000), boosting their entrepreneurial endeavours, and the success of their start-up. Under the theme, “Venture Beyond Boundaries”, HK Tech 300 SEA Competition plans to emulate its Hong Kong success by offering the opportunity to talented individuals and entrepreneurs in SEA, and support the SEA start-ups in expanding their business in Hong Kong, Mainland China and beyond. Datuk Seri Khaled Mohammed Nordin, the Minister of Higher Education Malaysia, represented by Emeritius Professor Dato’ Dr Morshidi Sirat, Higher Education Adviser to the Minister at the launch said, “A thriving small and medium enterprise (SME) and start-up ecosystem is essential for sustainable digital development. The Malaysian government welcomes the City University of Hong Kong’s decision to launch this regional edition of HK Tech 300 in Malaysia, as it demonstrates the success of Malaysia’s efforts to accelerate the digital economy and produce knowledgeable graduates with excellent marketability.” “I believe the exposure and guidance they will receive from the Competition will enable them to contribute to the expanding digital ecosystem,” said Khaled. Since its launch in March 2021, the HK Tech 300 programme has made great achievements towards its goal of creating 300 start-ups within 3 years. The programme translates as a strategic move by City University of Hong Kong to utilize its groundbreaking research results and intellectual property into practical applications. The programme provides valuable opportunities for young talent and aspiring entrepreneurs to bring their start-ups to the international arena, and the university has added an additional HK$100 million (MYR56.5 million) to further support the programme. HK Tech 300 has successfully provided funding for over 560 start-up teams, each received a seed fund of HK$100,000 (MYR56,500), and more than 110 start-ups received up to HK$1 million (MYR565,000) in Angel Fund Investment. With the launch of the HK Tech 300 SEA competition this year, it is expected this will attract talented entrepreneurs to participate and if chosen, be able to fund their start-ups and contribute to the growth of new technology and innovation in their own countries, in the region and beyond. For more information, visit www.cityu.edu.hk/hktech300/seasia (6th from left) Professor Michael Yang Mengsu , Vice-President (Research and Technology) and Chairman of the HK Tech 300 Executive Committee of City University of Hong Kong and Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr Morshidi Sirat (5th from left), Higher Education Adviser to the Minister of Higher Education, Malaysia, joins distinguished guests and partners to kick off the HK Tech 300 Southeast Asia Start-up Competition. (From left) Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr Morshidi Sirat; YB Dato' HJ. Mohammad Yusof Bin Apdal, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Malaysia; Professor Way Kuo and Professor Michael Yang Mengsu of City University of Hong Kong at the networking session before the HK Tech 300 SEA Competition Launch Ceremony.

14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 SUNBIZ Key numbers for April show China recovery losing steam oBoth domestic and trade engines of growth remain in low gear, high youth unemployment ‘worrying’ Morgan Stanley weighs cutting 7% of Asia investment bank jobs BENGALURU: Morgan Stanley is considering a 7% cut in its Asia-Pacific investment banking workforce, or about 40 jobs, according to a source with direct knowledge of the matter. The cuts would mainly impact the investment banking and capital markets business in the region, not including Japan. A Morgan Stanley spokesman declined to comment. The job cuts are part of a global reduction in light of market conditions and to reduce expenses, the source said. The person declined to be identified because the information was not public. News of the job cuts was first reported by Bloomberg News yesterday. The bank was planning to reduce about 3,000 jobs globally in the second quarter, Reuters reported on May 1 in its second round of job cuts in six months. Slow dealmaking and a tough economic environment prompted the investment bank to look at its staffing, a source said at the time. Morgan Stanley had more than 82,000 employees at the end of March, so cutting 3,000 jobs would represent a reduction in staff of nearly 4%. Global dealmaking has slowed down dramatically. Corporate buyout activity plunged to its lowest level in a decade in the first quarter of 2023. In Asia, the value of deals involving the region’s companies totalled $176 billion (RM791 billion) in the first quarter of 2023, 34% less than a year earlier and the lowest level since 2013, Refinitiv data shows. Capital markets activity across the region has also slowed sharply. The outlook for Hong Kong initial public offerings looks weak for the rest of the year, according to advisers. – Reuters B R I E F SLOSS-MAKING RAKUTEN ANNOUNCES ¥332B SHARE ISSUE TO BOLSTER FINANCES TOKYO: Japan’s Rakuten Group Inc said yesterday it aimed to raise up to ¥332 billion (RM11 billion) by issuing new shares, marking the latest step by the loss-making e-commerce and fintech company to fortify its finances. Rakuten said in a statement it aimed to raise about ¥290 billion via a public offering and another ¥41.8 billion through allocations to founder and CEO Hiroshi Mikitani, his asset management firm, CyberAgent Inc and Tokyu Corp. The company last week posted a quarterly loss and said it would sell its stake in supermarket chain Seiyu to US private equity firm KKR & Co Inc for ¥22 billion, just three years after agreeing to buy the shares from Walmart Inc. – Reuters TESLA SEEKS APPROVAL TO EXPAND SHANGHAI PLANT SHANGHAI: Tesla Inc has applied for regulatory clearance to expand its Shanghai plant and to begin producing for the first time pouch-type battery cells, albeit in small numbers. An undated public notice said the potential expansion would give the Shanghai Gigafactory the capacity to produce 1.75 million powertrain units annually, up from 1.25 million currently. The automaker is also looking for clearance to produce pouch-type battery cells, adding that a trial production line would have initial annual capacity to make 20,000-amp-hours of cells, equivalent to the power in a single Model Y battery pack. – Reuters VODAFONE TO CUT 11,000 JOBS TO BE LEANER, SIMPLER LONDON: New Vodafone boss Margherita Della Valle said yesterday she would cut 11,000 jobs over three years to simplify the telecoms group and regain its competitive edge as it forecast a €1.5 billion (RM7.3 billion) drop in free cash flow this year. The job cuts are the biggest in the history of Vodafone, which employs around 100,000 people across Europe and Africa. Della Valle said Germany, Vodafone’s biggest market, was underperforming, while Spain, which has suffered cut-throat competition in recent years, was under strategic review. Della Valle said she would maximise the potential of business customers, a long-standing Vodafone strength, while focusing on the basics, such as customer service, in the consumer market. – Reuters EX-AUDI BOSS STADLER PLEADS GUILTY IN GERMAN ‘DIESELGATE’ CASE MUNICH: Ex-Audi CEO Rupert Stadler pleaded guilty at his “dieselgate” fraud trial in Germany yesterday, becoming the highest-ranking former executive to make a confession in the emissions cheating scandal that rocked the car industry. Stadler, 60, admitted at a district court in Munich that he allowed vehicles equipped with manipulating software to remain on sale even after learning of the scam. The confession comes as part of a plea deal that will allow Stadler, who has been on trial since 2020, to avoid jail time. German car giant Volkswagen – whose subsidiaries include Porsche, Audi, Skoda and Seat – plunged into crisis after admitting in September 2015 that it had installed software to rig emission levels in 11 million diesel vehicles worldwide. – AFP below expectations for a 10.9% increase in a Reuters poll of analysts although it marked the quickest growth rate since September 2022. Retail sales, a gauge of consumption, jumped 18.4%, up sharply from a 10.6% increase in March for their fastest increase since March 2021. Analysts had expected 21% growth. The year-on-year figures were heavily skewed by contractions last April when the financial hub of Shanghai and other major cities were under stringent anti-virus lockdowns and curbs, which severely impacted growth in the Asian giant in 2022. “Today’s weaker-than-expected data show how difficult it is to keep the growth engine running after restarting it,” said Bruce Pang, chief economist at Jones Lang Lasalle. Nomura economists took an even dimmer view: “As disappointment kicks in, we see a rising risk of downward spiral, resulting in weaker activity data, rising unemployment, persistent disinflation, falling market interest rates and a weaker currency.” “Year-over-year growth in Q2 may still look elevated, thanks to a low base, but sequential growth could experience a material decline,” they said. Indeed, other data over the past week showing shrinking imports in April, deepening factory gate deflation and worse-than-expected bank loans signalled weak domestic demand, raising pressures on policymakers to shore up the economic recovery as global growth falters. China’s central bank kept the interest rate unchanged on Monday as expected, but markets are betting on more monetary easing in the coming months as the commodities data also highlighted pockets of weakness across the economy. The country’s average daily coal production, aluminium output and crude steel output all fell in April from a month earlier. Zhou Hao, economist at Guotai Junan International, expects the central bank to cut interest rates “as economic downturn pressure still remains.” Hiring was still low among companies wary about their finances. The youth jobless rate hit a record high at 20.4%, up from 19.6% in March, which Zhiwei Zhang, chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management, described as a “worrying sign.” – Reuters HOVE: Two workers glide between a computer screen and a stainless steel vat making face cream, a scientist in a white coat mixes a formula and a colleague sticks labels on bottles. Apart from the whir of machines, there is silence: this is “deep work time” at British skincare maker Five Squirrels when staff strive to boost productivity so they can take Fridays off and still get a full week’s pay. Owner Gary Conroy said his 15 workers had smashed through their targets since switching to the shorter week last June and introducing four-hour periods each day when they ignore emails, don’t answer phone calls and turn off instant messaging. What may seem an eccentric experiment is one of a number of trials of four-day working that has drawn interest from economists and businesses keen to find a solution to a slowdown in productivity growth in Britain and other Western economies. Productivity – or economic output per hour worked – grew at an average of just over 2% a year in Britain from the 1970s until the run-up to the financial crisis, underpinning a steady rise in living standards. But between 2010 and 2019, it averaged just 0.75% and the Bank of England forecasts it will remain weak over the next few years, partly due to more red tape since Brexit. In that context, cramming the same output into a four-day week represents the equivalent of a decade’s worth of productivity gains before the mid 2000s slowdown – and in the case of Five Squirrels, there’s a happier workforce too. The company based in Hove on Britain’s south coast was one of 61 firms – most with 25 or fewer employees – to take part in the world’s biggest four-day week trial last year. Pleased with the outcome, 56 have stuck with the policy. The vast majority said overall productivity and performance were maintained, though for some firms the need to work longer hours on the four working days meant they failed to cut a full eight hours from the week. BEIJING: China’s April industrial output and retail sales growth undershot forecasts, suggesting the economy lost momentum at the beginning of the second quarter and intensifying pressure on policymakers to shore up a wobbly post-Covid recovery. Yesterday’s batch of data, which also showed a further decline in property investment, adds to concerns about the outlook for the world’s second-biggest economy as both its domestic and export engines of growth remain underpowered. Industrial output grew 5.6% in April from a year earlier, accelerating from the 3.9% pace seen in March, data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) showed. It was well Out of 61 firms that took part in the world’s biggest fourday week trial last year, 56 have stuck with the policy. – AFPPIX Making the four-day week work for Britain The organisations behind the trial, the 4 Day Week Campaign and research group Autonomy, told Reuters they would be running a new trial from June 12 and had received hundreds of enquiries. Part of Britain’s long-term productivity problem stems from low investment, which was the weakest in the Group of Seven rich nations in 2021, according to World Bank data. The experience of some companies in the first trial suggests that moving to a four-day week might help, if it prompts firms to spend more on equipment and training. The productivity gains at Five Squirrels were also helped by investment. Conroy bought new machinery to make smaller batches of sunscreen, anti-wrinkle washes and skin-firming serum in a less labour-intensive way, and a new labelling machine. The company created a weekly schedule too, clustering tasks instead of switching between them, that led to a bottle labelling rate of 120 per hour, up from 25 previously. While large companies have been more sceptical about the idea, the trials and the Covid pandemic, when millions of people suddenly switched to home-working, have forced employers to be more open-minded about different work practices. Britain is suffering from an acute shortage of workers and larger companies have typically had an advantage when it comes to hiring, but some experts say moving to a fourday week could turn the tables. Nick South, a senior partner at Boston Consulting Group, said smaller firms with more of a shared ethos might find it easier to switch to a new dynamic and that could give them an edge when it comes to hiring talent. British recruitment agency Reed.co.uk said it had seen a rise in the number of job ads offering a four-day week since the start of the year. But four-day weeks did not work for all. Allcap, a supplier of industrial components with 36 employees in western England, tried a four-day week after its staff had worked flat out during the pandemic to supply protective equipment and ventilator parts. – Reuters

1 7 M A Y 2 0 2 3 W E D N E S D A Y Bombs away! CONCEPT and game creator, Mission Group Ltd, launched its multiplayer real life video game experience called Bomb Battle at Berjaya Time Square Kuala Lumpur on May 9, 2023, making it the first of its kind in Asia. The thrilling journey includes five fully immersive arcade games that combine inspirations from action films, game shows, escape games, and esports to create an unrivaled gaming experience. Designed as the ultimate group entertainment destination, this high-tech game challenges players to put their skills to the test by defusing a ticking paint bomb within 75 minutes. Failing to do so results in a vibrant explosion of colours as players get drenched in paint, providing an adrenaline rush and a memorable experience that combines the thrill of video games with high-energy missions. According to the Founder and CEO of Mission Group Limited, Datin Sheehan Tee, Bomb Battle is a family-friendly activity that combines excitement, intelligence, and skill. “The game features five unique rooms, each with three levels of difficulty, catering to players of all skill levels. We designed it to ensure that players are fully immersed in a real-life arcade game, creating an electrifying experience that they will never forget,” Datin Sheehan stated during the launch event. To elevate the player’s experience to the next level, Bomb Battle has partnered with GoPro as their Official Camera Partner. Using GoPros, players can effortlessly capture and record their gameplay, bringing life-like content home and sharing it with the world. On top of that, the company has also partnered with Klook Malaysia as their official online travel agent to provide exclusive online ticketing services to their users, in addition to Hausboom as their official beverage partner. Not only does the game promise an exciting experience, but it also ensures the safety of all players by providing full-body hazmat suits and protective gears. The Bomb Battle experience is equipped with the company’s advanced touch screen, IoT system, and laser maze hardware, which provides a unique way to experience the intersection of technology and human social connection. The official tickets for Bomb Battle will be available for purchase through their website as well as on Bomb Battle, founded by Datin Sheehan Tee and Tai Lee Chuen, promises to be one of the country’s most exciting entertainment rooms. – ALL PIX BY BOMB BATTLE oAsia’s first immersive paint bomb game, Bomb Battle, launches in Malaysia, providing a new venue for fun, thrilling activities █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL Immerse yourself in a real-life video game by solving unique in-house challenges. Klook Malaysia. Malaysians can choose between two thrilling missions, the Bomb Mission or VIP Mission, with prices starting at RM89 per person. With plans to expand its brand both nationwide and internationally, starting with Selangor in just a few months, Black lights, fog machines, theatrical components, and gigantic FX NEON Paint Bombs await! Teamwork is key in winning the Bomb Battle with your squad. Ready for team building, bonding, and fun with friends and family! Bomb Battle is set to make a mark in the entertainment scene. The game promises to deliver an even more explosive and captivating entertainment experience for everyone. Introducing exclusive rewards and incentives with digital assets Bomb Battle is also committed to staying ahead of the curve by introducing digital assets as a new way to enhance the visitor experience, streamline transactions, and reduce costs. With this innovative approach, the company aims to set a new standard for customer engagement and satisfaction in the industry. Datin Sheehan stated “At Bomb Battle, we believe that embracing the future of digital technology and innovation is key to staying ahead of the game. That is why we are thrilled to introduce digital assets as a significant stride towards this goal.” “Our exclusive rewards and incentives for players who possess digital assets not only enhance their experience, but also help drive customer engagement and turnout. This exciting new feature is unavailable to non-visitors or those without digital assets, making it a truly unique opportunity for our valued players to stay ahead of the curve,” she continued.

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME SOCIALITE Kylie Jenner, 25, celebrated Mother’s Day by posting never-before-seen photos of her 15-month-old son Aire and 5-year-old daughter Stormi on Instagram. The Kylie Cosmetics founder shares the two children with rapper Travis Scott. The mother of two is seen smiling and wearing a fluffy pink robe as she cuddles her children in the first photo from her carousel of adorable photos. While Aire dressed in green dinosaurprinted pajamas with matching green and white socks, Stormi dressed in pink like her mother in Santa Claus-themed pajamas. Another, earlier photo shows Stormi caring for her then-infant brother and proudly feeding him. Stormi smiles at the camera while holding a bottle and brushing her younger sibling’s hair in the adorable throwback photo. Stormi is seen wearing a Hello Kitty T-shirt and leggings, while Aire wore a brown sleepsuit in his feeding session. In another celebration of Mother’s Day, the Kardashians star also shared a photo of herself back when she was pregnant. The posts were commented on by her sister Khloé Kardashian, who wrote “Happy Mother’s Day my loves,“ and family friend Paris Hilton, who simply added an emoji of heart-shaped eyes. – by Hazique Zairill Aladdin actor in hot water THE Cannes Film Festival is set for a stormy start, with Johnny Depp making his comeback in the opening film, showing off his French skills as King Louis XV. The 59-year-old’s career has nosedived in Hollywood, despite his victory in a defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard last year that featured bitter domestic violence allegations. But Depp has been gradually returning to work and will hit the red carpet for the opening night in Cannes with French period drama Jeanne du Barry about the 18thcentury monarch who fell in love with a prostitute. Festival director Thierry Fremaux told reporters he was “not interested” in Depp’s trial, adding: “I am interested in Depp the actor.” Despite Fremaux’s attempt at a diplomatic response, Depp’s Jeanne du Barry has reportedly yet to secure US distribution. His dialogue in the film is kept to short phrases that help disguise his American accent. Maiwenn, the French star who directs and plays the lead role, admitted she was worried about the impact of his legal woes. “The film was shot last summer and he was coming out of his second trial,” Maiwenn, who goes by a single name, told AFP last week. “I had a lot of worries. I was wondering: ‘what will his image become?’” she said. But she faces her own controversies. In March, a well-known French journalist, Edwy Plenel of Mediapart, lodged a criminal complaint against Maiwenn, accusing her of approaching him in a restaurant, grabbing him by the hair and spitting in his face. She refused to discuss the “ongoing case” with AFP, but admitted the assault in an interview on French TV, without going into details. Depp was axed from Harry Potter spin-off Fantastic Beasts following Heard’s abuse allegations, but he is a long way from being “cancelled”. He has secured a record US$20 million (RM89.9 million) deal to remain the face of Dior fragrance, according to Variety last week. He is also set to direct Al Pacino in a biopic of artist Amedeo Modigliani later this year. – AFP Kylie Jenner celebrate’s Mother’s Day IT appears that Aladdin actor Mena Massoud has deleted his Twitter account after facing intense backlash for a tweet that claimed the upcoming live-action remake of The Little Mermaid would not cross the billion-dollar mark at the box office. Massoud’s comment was in response to another tweet comparing the box office openings of The Little Mermaid and Aladdin. “The Little Mermaid is tracking to earn $115 million (RM517.8 million) on its domestic box office opening weekend’, the original tweet said. “In comparison, Aladdin earned $112 million (RM504.3 million) on its opening.” In his now-deleted response, Massoud said: “Our film was unique in that audiences went to watch it multiple times. It’s the only way we reached the billion-dollar mark with our opening. My guess is The Little Mermaid doesn’t cross the billion mark but will undoubtedly get a sequel.” The tweet quickly landed Massoud in the eye of a Twitter storm, with fans quick to chastise the actor for his “bitter” comments, questioning why he bothered making the comments in the first place. Backlash towards Massoud appears to be particularly intense considering the fact that The Little Mermaid has already been the subject of heavy speculation following the announcement that a black woman would portray Ariel in the live-action film. Following the rush of criticism, Massoud swiftly deleted his Twitter account. Starring Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King and Awkwafina in lead roles, The Little Mermaid will hit theatres on May 26. – by Mark Mathen Victor Jenner with her two children. – INSTAGRAM Massoud (left) was accused of being bitter towards Bailey (right). – DISNEY THIS January, singer Rita Ora formally announced her marriage to New Zealand filmmaker Taika Waititi. Since then, the couple have remained evasive regarding the actual location and time of the ceremony. In a recent interview with Glamour UK, the 32-year-old singer said they only had “two or three days” to prepare their covert ceremony since she had no desire in a large wedding. “Some women like to feel that real special attention that day. And everyone’s different. And for me – I think with my job, it is all ... it’s very attention driven – I wanted to keep it private because my life and my career aren’t,” she explained. Ora recalled the understated proposal, saying: “Honestly, there was no real getting down on one knee. It was more like, “I want to marry you. Let’s just do it.”’ However, the celebrity revealed further information to the publication, admitting that they hurriedly planned the wedding so Taika’s children from his former marriage could attend. “I really wanted them to be a part of it. It was either then or we had to wait for ages. I didn’t want to do it without my stepkids there. So, we just figured it out and we did it. And it was perfect,” she gushed. “My sister was there, which was amazing for me. And he had his girls there, which was amazing for him. It was a dream. My parents were on Zoom.” The pop sensation also disclosed that she has decided not to adopt the last name of the Oscar-winning filmmaker. “I still just go by Rita Ora. I feel like it’s been such a whirlwind, the whole experience. And I’m just trying to keep up with you guys.” The pair reportedly got hitched in the summer of 2022 after initially igniting romance suspicions in April 2021. – by Thashine Selvakumaran Ora and Waititi announced their marriage in January. – GETTY Depp proves divisive oThe prestigious film festival has been accused of favouring the embattled star Depp’s presence at Cannes is seen as controversial. – AFP Rita Ora reveals details of her secret wedding Depp (right) in Jeanne Du Barry. – IMDB

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 A maddening escape room oInside is a psychological thriller following an art thief trapped in a New York City penthouse after a heist goes wrong WILLEM Dafoe slowly going mad is not an official film genre, but it should be. In his latest psychological caper, Dafoe plays Nemo, a high-end art thief. Breaking into a luxury penthouse to steal three artworks by Egon Schiele, things quickly turn awry for Nemo when he attempts to leave after failing to find Schiele’s self-portrait. A glitch in the penthouse’s security network locks him in, with his accomplices outside leaving him to fend for himself. The glitch also causes the internal thermostat to go haywire, while also cutting off the main water supply. Over the course of several days – and presumably weeks – Nemo attempts to survive on the limited food in the penthouse, while battling against the increasing temperature that turns the penthouse into an oven, before dropping and turning the place into a freezer. He also has to figure out how to escape. Amateur hour Inside is considered a “chamber film”– films with only one main location, with small deviations in the set. Most chamber films involve a very small group of actors – a famous one being Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight – but some go even smaller, with just one actor in the entire film, such as Tom Hardy in Locke. Compared to every other type of films, these require a very strong cast, excellent writing, and tight direction. Without these three working in tandem, the film will fall apart. For Inside, unfortunately it only has the cast – in this case, literally only Dafoe – down to a tee. As for the rest of the film, though it presents a unique setting where everything is working against the character, the writing still flounders. While everything imaginable in that contained setting happens, ironically, nothing advances the story, while Nemo – from the start to the end – remains a blank slate; viewers will not learn anything about his background beyond his opening lines, which leads to a two-dimensional character without any relatability or development. Held captive Despite the situation Nemo is placed in, where it is heavily implied that the brown “whiskey” he begins taking swigs of is his own dark, dehydrated urine, Inside never commits to truly pushing Nemo’s sanity to its limit. That said, Dafoe still commits to the role, as much as he did in Antichrist or more recently, The Lighthouse. It’s this distinction – Dafoe’s presence – that makes the almost two-hour-long film bearable. The weak writing pushes attention towards Dafoe’s performance, singularly, and nothing else; not even on Nemo. Dafoe summons attention through his performance, where viewers become invested in seeing the resolution to Inside, and then it happens; the shoddily written ending becomes the biggest crime in the film. Frankly put, Inside does not really have a proper ending in the sense that writer Ben Hopkins and director Vasilis Katsoupis just seemingly gave up with giving Nemo any sort of resolution. All said and done, the only thing Inside has going for it is Dafoe carrying the entire film on his back. Inside is streaming on Peacock. █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Stars and movie legends flock to Cannes for a women-led ceremony HEROES and villains! Screen legends and scandal! Indiana Jones, Martin Scorsese and Johnny Depp! The script for the 76th Cannes Film Festival, which opens this Tuesday, suggests it will be a blockbuster. Hollywood is descending en masse on the French Riviera for the world’s leading film shindig, which runs from May 16 to 27. But it is striking that most of its big stars are icons who made their names in the 20th century. Harrison Ford will receive a special homage when the 80-year-old’s final outing as the whipcracking archaeologist in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny gets its world premiere. Martin Scorsese, also 80, will launch his epic Killers of the Flower Moon alongside stars Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. Michael Douglas will receive an honorary Palme d’Or at the opening ceremony, Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore team up for May December from celebrated indie director Todd Haynes, and Jude Law dons the crown of Henry VIII in Firebrand. The king of quirky, Wes Anderson, will premiere Asteroid City and bring a typically starpacked cast to the red carpet, this time including Tom Hanks, Margot Robbie (right) and Scarlett Johansson. As if any more attention-grabbing selections were needed, the opening film is Johnny Depp’s so-called comeback, Jeanne du Barry, testing his French accent as King Louis XV. It is his first role since a defamation trial against ex-wife Amber Heard involving bitter allegations of domestic abuse, and arrives just after the film’s director and star, Maiwenn, was herself accused of assaulting a journalist in a Paris restaurant. Depp will be joined by his daughter, Lily Rose, who stars in The Idol, a TV series playing out of competition, produced by musician Abel ‘The Weeknd’ Tesfaye. It had a tumultuous production with reports of major rewrites and reshoots. Women and laureates It’s a stronger year for women than normal, with a record seven female directors among the 21 competing for the Palme d’Or top prize. One has been another source of scandal, however, with France’s Catherine Corsini only added at the last minute (with Homecoming) following controversy over an underage sex scene. They will face a jury led by Ruben Ostlund, a two-time Palme-winner for Triangle of Sadness and The Square. There are five previous winners in the competition, including Japan’s Hirokazu Koreeda, Germany’s Wim Wenders, Turkey’s Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Italy’s Nanni Moretti and another two-time winner, Britain’s Ken Loach. In a recent interview with AFP, Ostlund joked that he would be scrupulously fair if 86-year-old Loach’s The Old Oak seduces the jury: “I will definitely work very hard to get over my own egoistic goals of being the first director with three Golden Palmes.” But arthouse fans are perhaps most excited for a rare appearance by Britain’s Jonathan Glazer (Under the Skin, Sexy Beast) with a romance set in the Auschwitz concentration camp, The Zone of Interest. Another lauded Brit, Steve McQueen, will present a four-hour documentary about wartime Amsterdam, Occupied City, out of competition. Star of the moment and so-called “Internet Daddy” Pedro Pascal is also expected alongside Ethan Hawke for a “queer Western” short film by Spain’s Pedro Almodovar. And the festival is set to close on a colourful note with the latest animation from Pixar Studios, Elemental. It is set in a city where residents made from fire, air and water must learn to live together. – ETX Studio 0Director: Vasilis Katsoupis 0Cast: Willem Dafoe E-VALUE 6 ACTING 5 PLOT 8

18 HEALTH theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 When numbers don’t add up THERE are many things that Malaysians love, among them food and public holidays, but there is another thing that many of us have in common, and that is hypertension. You heard that right – hypertension rates in Malaysia are so high that 3 out of 10 adults are affected by this chronic condition. Unfortunately, in spite of this high prevalence, many do not take hypertension seriously and around half are not even aware of it because it is not associated with any noticeable symptoms. “Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is known as the ‘silent killer’ because most people will feel fine in spite of it,” explains Associate Professor Dr Verna Lee Kar Mun, Family Medicine Specialist at International Medical University (IMU). “However, ignoring it can lead to serious complications like stroke and organ failure, and once the warning signs set in, such as blurred vision, giddiness, chest pain and difficulty breathing, this means that complications are already happening.” Risk factors for hypertension include a family history of the condition, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet that is high in salt – if any of these apply to you, you could be at risk for developing hypertension. Here are 3 things you need to do to help keep your blood pressure (BP) levels within normal range, and reduce your risk of getting complications. 1. Check, check, check your BP Do not be fearful about getting your blood pressure checked. You should aim to have your blood pressure checked at least once a year even if you are in good health, advises Dr Verna. To simplify matters, get your blood pressure checked every time you visit your doctor, such as when you are having a cough or cold. Even though blood pressure is temporarily raised when you are unwell, it is usually not enough to pass 140/90, explains Dr Verna, and only readings that are consistently above 140/90 in the absence of an illness would be diagnosed as having hypertension. This is why it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly, whether at home or at the clinic, to help give you and your doctor an idea of your normal blood pressure. Those who have a family history of hypertension face a higher risk for developing hypertension and should check more regularly so that consistently elevated blood pressure can be medically examined. More frequent checks could also help to detect hypertension earlier, when lifestyle modifications and treatment are more likely to be effective. Meanwhile, those who are already diagnosed with hypertension should have a blood pressure monitor at home. You should speak to your doctor about how frequently you should check your blood pressure so that your doctor can review and take note of whether your condition is being well-managed. 2. Be alert for things that could raise your BP “Hypertension, which is increased pressure, occurs when blood vessels are constricted, which increases resistance. This forces the heart to work harder to increase volume and maintain sufficient blood flow to all the major organs. There are many reasons why this happens, chief among them being high salt intake, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. However, while most people with hypertension are aware that they need to reduce their salt intake, get enough exercise and maintain healthy body weight, there are also other, lesserknown things that contribute to elevated blood pressure,” she says. Among these are: 0 Secondary hypertension, which is caused by other health conditions, the most common being obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which usually affects people who are obese. “OSA causes patients to stop breathing for a few seconds, leading to hypoxia or lack of oxygen in the brain. This triggers many reactions in the body, one of which is constriction of blood vessels. Over time, this will lead to secondary hypertension,” explains Dr Verna. Other common causes of secondary hypertension are thyroid problems and chronic kidney disease such as inflammation of the kidneys. The thyroid produces hormones that help to regulate many functions in the body, including emotions, energy levels, appetite, sleep and heart rate as well as blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to treat both thyroid problems as well as hypertension so that blood pressure levels can be managed more effectively. 0 Certain medications, such as decongestants, which work by constricting blood vessels, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which lead to retention of salt and water, both increase blood pressure. While short-term usage of these medications is deemed to be safe, they are best taken with your doctor’s advice. 0 Dietary habits, of which salt is the main culprit when it comes to hypertension. Most of us know that soy sauce and many gravies are high in sodium, but sometimes even foods that don’t taste very salty can have high sodium content. On a positive note, consuming more foods that are naturally high in potassium such as bananas, nuts and citrus fruits can help as this mineral helps the body to regulate blood pressure levels. 3. Help your doctor help you manage your BP Sometimes, patients are reluctant to be completely honest with their doctors, says Dr Verna. Some are reluctant to mention that they are taking certain herbal supplements or traditional Chinese medicine, while others are afraid to admit that they have stopped taking their prescribed medications, often because they feel well or from fears over side effects. “It takes time for rapport to develop between a doctor and a patient, and it is common for them to leave out certain information during the first visit. Every Malaysian has their own home remedy or friends and family who recommend alternatives to medication. It usually takes several sessions for me to explain fully and help them to understand that everything has side effects, even herbal supplements. Some of them are even in denial that they have hypertension because they feel well,” she says. “However, at the end of the day, all my patients want to know what they can do to get their blood pressure under control.” Being open about your overall wellness, family history of hypertension and lifestyle habits will help your doctor help you. For example, explains Dr Verna, conditions like anxiety or depression that affect a person’s emotional state can also elevate blood pressure or make hypertension more difficult to control. While these conditions do not cause hypertension, it is important to seek treatment for these conditions as well. Your doctor can assist you in setting measurable targets using your blood pressure readings and help you plan for sustained weight management, both of which will support the action of any medications that are prescribed. “There is a silver lining with hypertension: it can be reversed with the necessary lifestyle changes. You can start by taking small measures such as using the stairs instead of an elevator or parking farther away from your destination in order to walk and move more, and reducing the amount of sauces and gravies in your daily diet as these are often high in sodium. While this takes discipline and time, it is possible to manage blood pressure without the use of medications in the long run,” says Dr Verna. “In the meantime, it is important for you to take the medication that your doctor has prescribed, without changing the dose or frequency as you wish. Hypertension is a chronic condition and daily medication is important to manage it.” Dr Verna also reassures patients that there are different types or classes of medications available to treat hypertension, and should a patient experience any side effects such as allergy, cough, erectile dysfunction, headache, swelling or water retention, their doctor can recommend alternatives. Lastly, she cautions hypertensive patients not to become complacent just because they feel good. “Doctors cannot predict what kind of complications you might develop, so being diligent about controlling or managing your blood pressure levels is essential, in addition to keeping yourself in good health by eating a balanced diet, getting enough exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight.” World Hypertension Day falls on 17 May, – 123RF oThis World Hypertension Day, lets learn more about the lesser-known things that can cause your blood pressure levels to rise

19 FEATURE theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 Bedroom makeover tips LIFE is full of colours, so why not bring them into your home? Colours show the personality of the owner and at times, colours chosen to create a certain effect because different colours have different moods. For example, a dark wall colour can make the space feel small, while pastel blue, green, or lavender could give a sense of calmness. Some prefer to use two different tones or colours in one room, which is a trend right now. Choosing a contrast or complementary colour combination is easy, but first, you must choose the base shade before picking wall colours. There are so many colours available on the market that one may get overwhelmed. So, here are some colour inspirations for your own bedroom that you might want to consider. Blush tones Blush tones are pretty on a wall, and very trendy. It’s not a conventional colour that one may pick right away, but it uplifts the mood in the room. For example, blush pink gives a sense of joy and cheeriness. Various hues of soft blush tones in pink are versatile and can go well with other shades from the same blush tone palette for a room, like magenta or even neutral colours and easily transform a room. Most blush shades are aesthetically pleasing. Blush tones can also be paired with neutral or beige shades to keep the room cosy. Green Green has varying shades, but soft pastel green, teal, turquoise, and deep green can easily be paired with light colours or white to make it stand out in a room. Rich, dark green gives a luxurious feel to a room. This colour is contemporary, and painting just one wall with this colour is sort of a statement and transforms the room. Blue Blue exudes peace and tranquility. Any shades of blue, from sky blue to soft pastel blue to blueish grey, are oTransform your bedroom with new paint colours and some creative decor █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI Jungle vibes ... Go green and transform your bedroom into a lush paradise with an array of indoor plants, or even plant-themed decor and pictures. Navy blue or indigo paired with white can create a stunning and crisp contrast. (left) A white bedroom is a canvas for you to add pops of colour to suite your own personal style. Be inspired by earthy tones from natural elements such as weathered woods and stones, arranged it in an array of patterns. – ALL PIX VIA PINTEREST White A shade of white, off-white, or cream gives a sense of ample spaciousness, and it’s easy to decorate the interior design of a bedroom because white can work with all colours. So, if the walls are white, any colour of furniture, carpets, or decorative items will work. Just like a white canvas works for an artist, white walls work for any self-made interior designer. It gives room for creativity and timelessness. Earthy tones Warm, earthy tones have been popular for the past few years, and it looks like that trend is not about to go away anytime soon. Nature-inspired colours like brown and beige are calming and comforting. These nature-based colours can be matched with a darker shade in the same colour, neutral colours, or black or white window trims and doors, to keep harmony in the room. soothing. Blue is a very contemporary colour, and you notice new shades being used in modern buildings, but in some European palaces built a few centuries ago, blue gives a classic look. There is also a royal blue colour, specifically used by the royal family. So, you can bet on blue. It works in any space, but choosing the right blue is important.

20 TRAVEL theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME from 9,000ft in Queenstown or Wanaka for incredible views over the magnificent Kiwi landscape, including the Central Otago high country and lakes. White Water Rafting the Zambezi River, Zimbabwe The Zambezi River runs from Zambia to the Indian Ocean and is widely considered to have some of the best white water rafting rapids in the world. Tranquil pools, the beauty of the Batoka Gorge and picturesque sunsets provide a respite from the class three to five rapids of powerful waves and currents along the way. Flowing under the backdrop of the world’s largest waterfall, Victoria Falls, the journey is simultaneously spectacular and elating. Think overnight stays on remote white sand riverbanks with moonlit campfires. Try your luck catching tigerfish and keep an eye out for native wildlife, including crocodiles and hippos, while navigating the fast waters. White water rafting trips are not only exhilarating but offer a physical challenge, speed and a sense of adventure. The best season for ticking off rafting the Zambezi from your travel bucket list is during the lower water levels from July to January. Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey Cappadocia in central Turkey has become almost synonymous with the iconic image of the flight of hundreds of hot-air balloons across the skyline. The huge attraction is now a staple to the modern bucket list as thousands flock to Turkey to take to the skies and enjoy the World Heritage Site. Try to get an early start for the best views of the sunrise as you calmly float over the historic Göreme Town and spot the distinctive fairy tale chimneys in the rock formations. Hiking trails in the region further make the trip a whimsical dream for adventurers. Hot air balloon flights are weather dependent, so tourists are advised to travel between April and June for the best chance of getting off the ground. Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef, Australia Sign up for scuba diving in Australia for an underwater adventure on one of the largest living structures on Earth. The Great Barrier Reef stretches 1,400 miles down Australia’s east coast and is teeming with vibrant corals. Dive sites enjoy protected status as a Marine Protected Area and are home to an abundance of regularly spotted marine life. Bottlenose dolphins, manta rays, jellyfish and minke whales swim the waters, and you may even get to face your fear of sharks. Swim, snorkel or scuba dive the gentle currents as a beginner, or take it one step further and get scuba certified for a guaranteed return trip – there’s a reason the reef is renowned as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world. Climb to Everest Base Camp, Nepal If you have a taste for climbing, why not set your sights on an aspiring hiker’s biggest challenge: Mount Everest. The world’s highest mountain peak, 8,849m above sea level, has an infamous reputation that precedes it worldwide. Everest has been the tallest order on every thrill-seeking adventurer’s wish list since it was first summited in 1953. Beginners fear not, those with little climbing experience can still enjoy the wonders of the vast mountain without trying to reach the summit. Still, plan ahead and allow for a few months of preparation time for basic altitude and fitness training. The dramatic scenery of the Himalayas is just as awe-inspiring from Base Camp. Think monasteries, alpine lakes and Sherpa villages along the way to the established community at the bottom of the formidable Khumbu Icefall. Polar Plunge, Antarctica A cruise to Antarctica is certainly not your average summer holiday, but a visit to the icy, isolated continent remains a dream for many. Make the once-in-a-lifetime journey through the rough seas of the Drake Passage from South America to Antarctica for a chance to brave a swim in the Antarctic Peninsula. Expedition leaders will look out for the most optimal conditions along the way, be it a quick dip from onshore or launch from the ship’s gangway and Zodiac boats. Polar plunges stimulate heart rates and oxygen levels so get ready to feel invigorated for the rest of the journey. It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned swimmer; all those taking the plunge are kept safely secured to the boat by a tethered harness as guides in survival gear circle the area. – The Independent THE rarest and most exhilarating travel experiences are often the ones thrillseekers enjoy the most. The temptation of once-in-a-lifetime adventures for adrenaline junkies is enough to get the blood pumping and ready for a sensational skydive, stomach-dropping bungee jump or whitewater rafting journey down grade five rapids. With so many unique locations and activities to see and do respectively, it can be a struggle to whittle the options down to an essential bucketlist of activities. After all, from exploring a World Heritage site to reaching the base of Mount Everest, there are seemingly endless try-beforeyou-die experiences to tick off. From scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef to hiking Machu Picchu and taking a polar plunge in Antarctica, there are adventures out there to suit every type of traveller. We’ve put together a list of some of the top ones to try around the world; read on for some serious bucket-list inspiration, and turn your travel dream into reality. Safari in the Serengeti, Tanzania If a safari adventure tops your bucket list, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is the perfect setting to see the Big Five for yourself. Picture lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo mere meters away on the African savannah. Proclaimed as a national park in 1951, the authentic natural landscape still hosts some indigenous tribes, including the traditional Maasai people. Get up close and personal with the diverse wildlife with a trip to witness the Great Migration, the journey of roughly two million wildebeest across the Masai Mara. Most travellers prefer to visit during the dry season from late June to October for the best chance of catching this vast spectacle. Hiking Machu Picchu, Peru Deep in the mountains of the Peruvian Andes at the heart of a tropical rainforest lies an imposing 15th-century Incan Citadel. The site, built by Peru’s ancient civilisation and rediscovered by American archaeologist Hiram Bingham in 1911, had sat abandoned since the 16th-century Spanish invasion. In 1983 Unesco declared Machu Picchu a World Heritage Site and, in 2007, it was officially named as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It’s no wonder that hiking along the Inca Trail has topped bucket lists, but this adventure holiday is no walk in the park. At over 2,430m above sea level, get ready for some serious altitude, heavy rain between November and March and strenuous cardio. You’ll travel through the indigenous Sacred Valley and Ollantaytambo ruins before reaching the South American cultural icon that is Machu Picchu. Fall from the Sky in New Zealand The crème de la crème of bucket list activities for the most adventurous of adrenaline junkies can be found at great heights in New Zealand – skydiving and bungee jumping. In these top two adventure activities, taking a leap of faith is the fastest way down. Freefall for 8.5 seconds from New Zealand’s highest bungee launch by making the jump from 134m above the Nevis River. Alternatively, embrace the heart-pounding jump from the site of the world’s first bungee at Kawarau Gorge – this is the original after all. Keen to ramp it up a notch and take your trip even higher? Skydive Ultimate travel bucket list oHere are the eight best adventure and activity holidays to experience in your lifetime Tour the African savannah of the Serengeti National Park. – ALL PIX FROM THE INDEPENDENT The Incan Citadel of Machu Picchu, Peru. Make the jump from Kawarau Bridge. Facing the rapids of the Zambezi River. Hot air balloons in Cappadocia at sunrise. Get up close with Australia’s marine life. The scenic Mount Everest Base Camp in Nepal. Prepare to take a polar plunge into the icy water.

21 * SPORTS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF HZS BIOTECH MARKETING SDN. BHD. (Company No. 1440100-A) (IN MEMBERS VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) The following Special Resolution was duly passed by the members of HZS BIOTECH MARKETING SDN. BHD., on the 17th May 2023 in accordance with Section 439 of the Companies Act, 2016. ‘That the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439 of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Low Poh Seong of No 5, Jalan 1/15, Seksyen 1, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of such winding-up’ Dated this: 17th May 2023 Sgnd …………………………….. (YONG FOOK YAN) DIRECTOR IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF HZS BIOTECH MARKETING SDN. BHD. (Company No. 1440100-A) (In Members Voluntary Winding Up) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the above named Company, which is being voluntarily wound up, are required on or before 16th June 2023 (30 days from advertised date ) to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and of any security held by them, and the names, addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at No 5 Jalan 1/15, Seksyen 1, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are by their Solicitors or personally to come in and prove their debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they shall be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proven. Dated this: 17th MAY 2023 Sgnd ………………………………. LOW POH SEONG Liquidator PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SUNGAI PETANI PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: KB-38-228-03/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 14785/2009 ( bertarikh 27/07/2009) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah HSD 72711, PT 33086, Mukim Bandar Sungai Petani, Daerah Kuala Muda, Kedah Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Islamic Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) .. PLAINTIF DAN Haryati Binti Ramli (No. Kad Pengenalan : 721025075536) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di SUNGAI PETANI mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 7 Disember 2021 dan 19 April 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Rabu, 31 Mei 2023, Pada Jam 9:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : HSD 72711 No. Lot : PT 33086 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar Sungai Petani / Kuala Muda / Kedah Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 3600.000000 kaki persegi : 334.450000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Haryati Bint Ramli Syarat Nyata : TAPAK RUMAH BERKEMBAR Tanah yang terkandung dalam hakmilik ini hendaklah digunakan sebagai tapak satu bangunan kediaman sahaja. Sekatan Kepentingan : Lot Untuk Orang Melayu Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Satu unit rumah berkembar dua tingkat yang beralamat di No. 4, Persiaran BLM 2, Bandar Laguna Merbok, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah Darul Aman yang beralamat pos di No. 4, Persiaran BLM 2, Bandar Laguna Merbok, 08000 Sungai Petani, Kedah. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 456,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA PULUH ENAM RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2021-102/HR(RS/j) 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI BATU PAHAT DALAM NEGERI JOHOR DARUL TAKZIM, MALAYSIA GUAMAN NO. JC-A72NCvC-13-02 TAHUN 2023 ANTARA REGITEL SDN BHD (No. Pendaftaran: 200301004062 (606482-T)) … PLAINTIF DAN CHONG HAR LIM (No. K/P: 690712065103 / A1320538) (Berniaga sebagai LPC ELECTRICAL & PLUMBER) (No. Pendaftaran: 200803141315 (CA0135654-P)) ... DEFENDAN NOTIS Kepada: CHONG HAR LIM (No. K/P: 690712065103 / A1320538) No. 36, Jalan Melur 1 Taman Melur PT Iman Batu Pahat 83050 Batu Pahat Johor Darul Takzim Dan / atau CHONG HAR LIM (No. K/P: 690712065103 / A1320538) No. 9-1, Jalan Ceria 1 Taman Ceria 83000 Batu Pahat Johor Darul Takzim AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Writ bertarikh 10 Februari 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 9 Februari 2023 tersebut telah dikeluarkan terhadap kamu oleh Mahkamah ini atas permohonan REGITEL SDN BHD dan Mahkamah ini telah memerintahkan Writ bertarikh 10 Februari 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 9 Februari 2023 tersebut (“Kertas-Kertas Kausa tersebut”) diserahkan kepada kamu dengan cara menampal sesalinan Kertas-Kertas Kausa tersebut bersama-sama dengan Perintah untuk Penyampaian Ganti bertarikh 19 April 2023 di alamat terakhir kamu yang diketahui sebagai No. 36, Jalan Melur 1, Taman Melur, PT Iman Batu Pahat, 83050 Batu Pahat, Johor dan No. 9-1, Jalan Ceria 1, Taman Ceria, 83000 Batu Bahat, Johor dan di atas Papan Notis di Mahkamah Majistret Batu Pahat serta mengiklankan notis ini dalam naskah suratkhabar tempatan, iaitu “The Sun” dan seterusnya pengiklanan atau penampalanpenampalan tersebut hendaklah menjadi penyampaian yang cukup dan sempurna ke atas kamu selepas empat belas (14) hari dari tarikh terakhir penampalan-penampalan atau pengiklanan terakhir. AMBIL PERHATIAN SELANJUTNYA bahawa Writ tersebut telah ditetapkan untuk Pengurusan Kes secara e-Review di Mahkamah ini pada 22 Mei 2023 jam 9:00 pagi di mana kamu dikehendaki hadir pada hari tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhasrat untuk membela diri kamu di dalam Writ Saman tersebut, kamu hendaklah dalam tempoh empat belas (14) hari selepas tarikh penampalan-penampalan atau pengiklanan yang mana berlaku kemudian menyebabkan kehadiran dimasukkan untuk diri kamu dalam kausa guaman JCA72NCvC-13-02/2023. Kegagalan kamu untuk berbuat demikian akan menyebabkan Mahkamah mengeluarkan Perintah ke atas kamu. Kertas-Kertas Kausa tersebut ini boleh diperiksa oleh kamu dengan membuat permohonan di Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh pada 8 haribulan Mei 2023 tt .............................. Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif Tetuan Siong & Rita NOTIS ini dikeluarkan oleh TETUAN SIONG & RITA yang beralamat di E-712, Phileo Damansara 1, 46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas. Tel: 03-7932 3006 | Faks: 03-7932 3009 | (Ruj: RSB/2548.22) IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR IN THE STATE OF WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) PETITION NO.: WA-28NCC-368-04/2023 In the matter of CR SEA (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD [Registration No. 201701022023 (1236189-T)] And In the matter of Section 465(1)(e) read With Section 466(1)(a) and (c) of the Companies Act,2016 And In the matter of the Companies (WindingUp) Rules 1972 BETWEEN THRONE ENGINEERING SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201301020723 (1050553-M)) … PETITIONER AND CR SEA (MALAYSIA) SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201701022023 (1236189-T)) …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the abovenamed Company by the High Court was, on the 25th day of April 2023 presented by THRONE ENGINEERING SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 201301020723 (1050553-M)) AND that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at Kuala Lumpur at 9:30 am on the 21st day of November 2023; AND any creditor or contributory of the said Company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose AND a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment to the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at No. 41, Jalan BP 7/12, Bandar Bukit Puchong, 47120 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan. The Petitioner’s solicitors are Messrs. Siong & Rita whose address for service is at E-712, Phileo Damansara 1, Jalan 16/11, 46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dated this 2nd May 2023 -Signed - ............................................. Messrs. Siong & Rita Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE :- Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Solicitors for the Petitioner, notice in writing of his intention to do so. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above named not later than twelve o’clock noon of the 20th day of November 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the Petition). This Advertisement of Petition is filed by Messrs. Siong & Rita, solicitors for the Petitioner whose address for service is at E-712, Phileo Damansara 1, Jalan 16/11, 46350 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel No. 03-7932 3006 | Fax No. 03-7932 3009 (Ref: TESB/2540.22) IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF TIARA NUSANTARA SDN. BHD. (199401001093) (286771-P) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, a Final Meeting of the abovementioned Company will be held at UOA Business Park, Tower 3, 5th Floor, K03- 05-08, 1 Jalan Pengaturcara U1/51A, Section U1, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan on Wednesday, 21st day of June, 2023 at 10.30 a.m., for the following purposes:- 1. To receive and consider the Liquidator’s account of winding up of the Company and any explanations arising thereof. 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016, all books and papers of the Company and of the Liquidator be destroyed upon the dissolution of the Company. Dated this 17th day of May, 2023 Jason Sia Sze Wan Liquidator IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IIN THE MATTER OF MPB SERVICES SDN. BHD. [201101030825 (201101030825 (958960-P))] (Members’ Voluntary Winding-up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, a Final Meeting of the Members of the Company be held at 122-01, Jalan Adda 7, Taman Adda, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor on Monday, 19th June 2023 at 10:00 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the final accounts of the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up of the Company has been conducted and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator; 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof shall be destroyed pursuant to Section 518 of the Companies Act, 2016. 3. To approve and accept the resignation of the Liquidator pursant to Section 513(3) of the Companies Act, 2016. LEE KONG BENG Liquidator Johor Bahru Dated: 17 May 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MOTOSING PROPERTY SDN. BHD. Company No. 200001007583 (510189-W) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at a Meeting of Members of the Company held on 12 May 2023, the following Special and Ordinary Resolutions were duly passed: - SPECIAL RESOLUTION - MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016. ORDINARY RESOLUTION – APPOINTMENT OF LIQUIDATOR THAT Mr. Wong Kai Chung of No. 191, Jalan Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up with all the powers given under the Companies Act, 2016. WONG KAI GUAN Company Director 17 May 2023 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of MOTOSING PROPERTY SDN. BHD. which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 17 June 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at No. 191, Jalan Pudu, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, and if so required by notice in writing by the Liquidator, either personally or by their solicitors, to come in and prove their debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. WONG KAI CHUNG Liquidator 17 May 2023 322 Notices 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI PETALING JAYA DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: BB-A72NCvC-166-02/2023 ANTARA 1. LCC BUILDER SDN BHD (No. Syarikat: 1179272-U) 2. LEE CHEE CHUAN (No. K/P: 760222-08-6463) …PLAINTIF-PLAINTIF DAN 1. TAI BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION SDN BHD (No. Pendaftaran: 201801043014/1305046-K) 2. TAI HONG YUN (No. K/P: 861217-04-5053) … DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN (TERHADAP DEFENDAN KEDUA) Kepada :- TAI HONG YUN (No. K/P: 861217-04-5053) Block C, 23A-05, Jalan Pinggiran, Koi Prima Condominium, Taman Mas Puchong, 47130 Puchong, Selangor. Ambil perhatian bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap Defendan Kedua dalam Writ No. BB-A72NCvC-166-02/2023 oleh LCC BUILDER SDN BHD (No. Syarikat: 1179272-U) dan LEE CHEE CHUAN (No. K/P: 760222-08-6463) di mana tuntutan Plaintif untuk jumlah wang sebanyak RM 56,155-42 dengan faedah 5% setahun ke atas jumlah penghakiman mulai tarikh pemfailan Writ Saman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian sepenuhnya. Dan bahawa telah diperintahkan bahawa penyampaian writ itu dalam tindakan tersebut kepada kamu kena dilaksanakan melalui iklan ini. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela dalam tindakan tersebut kamu mestilah dalam masa 14 hari selepas tarikh tersiarnya iklan ini, termasuk hari penyiaran itu, memasukkan kehadiran di Pejabat Pendaftaran Mahkamah. Jika ingkar apa-apa kehadiran yang demikian maka penghakiman boleh dibuat terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 19 April 2023. -T.T- ……………….… Peguamcara Plaintif Penyampaian Ganti (Bentuk Iklan) ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Kelvin Wong, Phang & Associates, peguamcara dan peguambela bagi Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas yang beralamat di Block J-3A-04, Setiawalk, Pusat Bandar Puchong, 47160 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel: 03-8600 2162; Faks: 03-8600 2163 Email: [email protected] (Ruj kami: LIT/KWPA/2022/LCC/THY/h) IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT SHAH ALAM IN THE STATE OF SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) NO: BA-28NCC-200-04/2023 In the matter of Section 465(1)e and 466(1)a of the Companies Act 2016 AND In the matter of FACADE TREATMENT ENGINEERING SDN BHD (Company No. 200201004725/572388-D) BETWEEN SCATECH SDN BHD (Company No. 199501035790/364992-K) ... PETITIONER AND FACADE TREATMENT ENGINEERING SDN BHD (Company No. 200201004725/ 572388-D) ... RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for the winding up of the abovenamed Company by the High Court at Shah Alam was on the 25 April 2023 presented to the said Court by Scatech Sdn Bhd and that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at Shah Alam at 9.00 o’clock in the morning on the 12 July 2023 and any Creditor or Contributory of said company desirous to support or oppose the making of an Order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any Creditor or Contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at No.1 Jalan Dagang 8, Taman Dagang Jaya, 68000 Ampang, Selangor. The Petitioner’s solicitors are Messrs T.F. Wong & Tee, No.37-1, 1st Floor, Jalan Batai Laut 3, Taman Intan, 43100 Klang, Selangor. (Ref : WW/LT/1374/23) ............................... Solicitors for the Petitioner T.F.WONG & TEE Note: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Messrs T.F. Wong & Tee notice in writing of his intentions to do so. The Notice must state the name and address by the person, or if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later than twelve o’clock noon of the 11 July 2023. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KARLEX INDUSTRIES SDN. BHD. (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) [Registration No. 200401000528 (639031-T)] NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final Meeting of Members of the Company will be held at 184A, Jalan Raja Uda, 12300 Butterworth, Penang on the 19th day of June, 2023 at 11.00a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive an account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and property of the Company disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016, the books, accounts and documents of the Company and the Liquidator be destroyed three (3) months after the Company has been dissolved. Dated this 17th day of May, 2023 TANG YIN KHAM Liquidator CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424 Khawaja heads to England with low expectations AUSTRALIA’S Usman Khawaja ranks England as the toughest place for top order batsmen and will head to the Ashes with low expectations after struggling on previous tours. Khawaja has a batting average of 19.66 from six Tests in England, less than half his career average of 47.81, and was dropped after three matches of the 2019 Ashes, which Australia drew 2-2 to retain the urn. “England is, in my opinion, the toughest place in the world to bat for a top three batsman, plain and simple,” Khawaja told Australian media. “New ball is tough work, but then you get some (weather) conditions, and it’s a bit of luck involved in it, too. “If I’ve learned anything, it’s work hard, train hard, (and) if you’re going to England, go with low expectations. Work on every game one at a time, because you are going to fail as a batsman. But when you do score, you try to cash in as much as you can. “But… there’s no guarantees – (James) Anderson, (Stuart) Broad, they’re unbelievable bowlers, they’re tough work at the start.” Gill fires Titans to IPL playoffs INDIA opener Shubman Gill hit his maiden IPL century to help holders Gujarat Titans secure their playoff berth with a thumping 34- run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad yesterday. Gill, who smashed 101 off 58 balls, put on a 147-run stand with Sai Sudarshan, who made 47, to guide table-toppers Gujarat to 188-9 in Ahmedabad. Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma both took four wickets to limit Hyderabad to 154-9 as Gujarat became the first team to secure one of the four playoff spots. Gujarat, who had a fairytale debut season when they won the title last year, are also assured of a top-two finish in the group phase. “Very proud of the boys. Two in two. Last year was different, we knew there’d be a lot of challenges this year,” skipper Hardik Pandya said. “Boys have put their hands up in different situations. I think we’ve rightly earned the chance of making the playoffs.” Hyderabad, the 2016 champions, fell out of the playoff race, making it seven teams fighting for three remaining playoff places. “Lots of pride still left in the upcoming games,” said captain Aiden Markram. “Maybe we’ll give out a few opportunities and guys can finish well but sadly we haven’t been good.” Hamilton urged to ‘get out of Mercedes’ LEWIS HAMILTON must ditch Mercedes and “reinvent” himself at another team, according to Eddie Jordan. The seven-time world champion has been the victim of the Silver Arrows’ performance struggles over the last two years and has been linked with a move. Hamilton has not won a race since 2021 and has registered just one podium finish this year. With less than a year remaining on his Mercedes contract, speculation has mounted over whether the 38-year-old could finally move on. That option has been backed by former F1 team boss Jordan, who has told Hamilton he needs to “get out of” Mercedes. The 75-year-old believes the Formula One icon would benefit from a fresh start with another team. “Lewis has to find something else in his mojo now and he needs to get out of there. He needs to move on just like he did when he was with McLaren,” Jordan said on the Formula For Success podcast. Making a demand to Hamilton, he continued on the podcast: “Get out of Mercedes, Lewis. It’s time you reinvented yourself somewhere else.” Coulthard wants F1 race in the Big Apple DAVID COULTHARD insists Formula 1 should revisit plans from a decade ago to race in New York. F1 currently had three races in the United States, with Las Vegas set to make its debut in November to join Austin and Miami. The sport had plans 10 years ago to race in Weehawken, New Jersey, on a street track overlooking the Hudson River, but the plan was foiled due to a contractual dispute. Yet former McLaren and Red Bull driver Coulthard – who drove a 2012 Red Bull show car around sections of the track in New York – believes a race in the Big Apple would be the “perfect place” for F1 to find the sweet spot stateside. “We tried to get a race in New York several years ago at Weehawken,” Coulthard told Autosport. “I remember running in one of the Red Bull show cars. I drove part of the section of track in the F1 car and it was unbelievable. “Opposite Manhattan, there was a section that made Eau Rouge at Spa look like kids’ stuff. If they ever were able to reignite that plan right there, I think that would be the perfect place.” Coulthard, a 13-time grand prix winner who is now a pundit for Channel 4’s F1 coverage, added that each event would have its “own flavour”, given the different cities each race takes place in. “I think we can go to four races in the future, when you consider the land mass,” he said. “And that’s the utopian dream – to break America.” SHORTS David Coulthard

22 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 SPORTS NATIONAL dancesport representative Sam Jee Lek danced his way to mersmerise the judges en route to defend the men’s break dance (B-Boys) gold medal at the 2023 Cambodia SEA Games in Phnom Penh yesterday. In the final round held at the Olympic Complex Marquee, Sam or better known as “Lego Sam” was truly in his element as his stunning yet energetic moves captured the hearts of judges and enabled him to take home gold by beating his rival, Chinavut Chantarat (Cheno) of Thailand, 3-0. Another Thailand dancer, Kantapon Rodsaart completed the podium finish with a bronze medal. At the 2019 Philippines SEA Games, Sam won the men’s breakdance event for Malaysia’s first gold in any dancesport event. However, B-Boys event was not contested in the 2021 SEA Games in Hanoi, Vietnam. Team manager Chua Zjen Fong said Sam was indeed in top form ahead of other dancers in yesterday’s final. “I am satisfied with Sam’s performance today although dancers from the other countries too had produced excellence performances in terms of technique but his moves were unique, thus giving him the edge,” he told Bernama. Meanwhile in badminton, the national squad ended their outing the Games without a gold medal after their last hope, mixed doubles scratch pair Yap Roy King-Cheng Su Yin, lost in the final. The unseeded Roy King-Su Yin had to settle for silver after they went down fighting to the top seeds from Indonesia, Rehan Naufal KusharjantoLisa Ayu Kusumawati, in the final at the Morodok Techo Badminton Hall. Formed just days before the biennial games kicked off, Roy King-Su Yin got off to a perfect start as they won 22-20 in a closely fought opening game against the Indonesians. A series of unforced errors proved costly for the Malaysians as the Indonesians sealed the second game 21-8. Despite leading 13-11 in the decider, Roy KingSu Ying failed to hold their nerves as Rehan-Lisa regained their composure to win 21-16. – Bernama @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME Alcaraz gets wake-up call Spaniard hopes to ‘reset’ ahead of French Open after Rome shock CARLOS ALCARAZ said he needed a few days to “reset” his mind ahead of the French Open, after being dragged out of his comfort zone and stunned by Hungarian qualifier Fabian Marozsan at the Italian Open yesterday. The 20-year-old has been in superb form on clay, winning a title in Buenos Aires earlier in the season before triumphing in Barcelona and Madrid ahead of the Rome tournament. But Alcaraz, who is set to leapfrog Novak Djokovic into top spot in the rankings and take the No. 1 seeding at Roland Garros, struggled against world No. 135 Marozsan to suffer only his second defeat on the surface this year going down 6-3, 7-6 (4). “I was perfect physically. I just didn’t feel comfortable,“ Alcaraz told reporters. “He made me feel uncomfortable on court. He was aggressive all the time. “It was tough for me to get into the match, into the rally. I made a lot of mistakes that I usually don’t make. Obviously, these days can happen and you have to handle it. “In the second set I was close, I had my chances but didn’t take them. He was at the same level all the time. He deserves the win.” Alcaraz said he was looking forward to some time off ahead of the year’s second Grand Slam which starts on May 28. “I’m going to rest a little bit. I need some days to reset my mind, to be fresh for Roland Garros,” Alcaraz said. “Of course, to practice. That’s no secret. If I want to have good results in Paris, if I want to go to Paris in good shape, I have to practice. “I couldn’t practice more than three or four days in a row. I’ve been playing so much. It’s going to be really helpful to have days at home practising and getting ready.” Marozsan stunned Alcaraz in the first set with the pace of his forehand, while he played the Spaniard at his own game with frequent drop shots. The second seed fought hard in the second to try to turn the match around. He led 4-1 in the tie-break but Marozsan was not to be denied, reeling off six points in a row to clinch the victory of his life and one of the biggest shocks of the season. Speaking on Amazon Prime Video, Marozsan said: “I’m very, very happy. I couldn’t imagine this. It was my dream last night. “I just beat the world No. 1, he’s the best in our sport. Everything was perfect today.” In other matches, world No. 3 Daniil Medvedev earned a hardfought 3-6, 6-1, 6-3 win over Spain’s Bernabe Zapata Miralles to reach the last 16 in Rome for the first time. Sixth seed Andrey Rublev also advanced after defeating Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 7- 6(8), 6-3. In the women’s draw, Elena Rybakina saw off Marketa Vondrousova 6-3, 6-3 to reach her first claycourt WTA 1000 quarterfinal. – Reuters Lego Sam break-dances his way to gold JUSTIN THOMAS says he is starting to see “a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel” as he heads into his US PGA title defence. Both of Thomas’ major victories so far have come at the US PGA – 2017 and 2022 – but he has arrived at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester following a first missed cut in eight Masters appearances last month. The 30-year-old American’s highest finish anywhere this year was fourth at the Phoenix Open, with the Valspar Championship providing Thomas’ only other top-10 result. He is a 20-1 shot to land a third US PGA crown, although he was encouraged by his display at the recent Wells Fargo Championship in North Carolina. “How you learn is failure and negatives, and I feel like I’ve had a great opportunity for a lot of learning the past couple of months this year,” Thomas said. “I am starting to see a little bit of a light at the end of the tunnel. “There are going to be days where 70 might be the best that I have that day, but it’s sure better than 71, or 75 might be the best I have that day, but it’s better than 76. That’s just kind of how I have always been taught. “How I described it for a couple months is, I’ve never felt so far and so close at the same time. “That is a very hard thing to explain, and it’s also a very hard way to try to compete and win a golf tournament. “That’s how you get out of it, just playing your way out of it and hitting the shots when you want to and making those putts when you need to. “Then your confidence builds back up, and next thing you know you don’t even remember what you were thinking in those times. “I felt like I showed a lot of really good signs in Charlotte (Wells Fargo).” Thomas played a practice round yesterday, and his first impressions of Oak Hill backed up what he has been told. “I came out (on Sunday), just with wedges and putter and walked all 18 holes and just hit chips and putts around the greens,” he said. “I actually played the golf course in its entirety, and it’s everything that I had heard about. It’s a tough test.” – The Independent Thomas seeing ‘light at end of tunnel’ SHORTS Micheel still haunted by major regrets SHAUN MICHEEL still copes with regrets 20 years after a shocking PGA Championship triumph that proved to be the only PGA Tour victory of his career. Micheel, now 54, returns this week to Oak Hill for the 105th PGA Championship haunted by what might have been after he won in 2003 while ranked 169th in the world, the lowest spot for any PGA Championship winner. Micheel delivered a cautionary tale to a host of top golfers chasing their first major titles this week, including seven of the world’s 15 top-ranked players – be careful what you wish for, you might get it. “When you win… your expectations change. You become driven by perfection, that was my undoing.” “When I won one, when I won here, I didn’t know what to do with myself. I was like, how in the world do I upstage what I just have accomplished?” he said. Attention focused upon him, a shy man was thrust into a spotlight. “I don’t like to be the center of attention in anything,” Micheel said. “If I could just play invisible out there, that was better.” Top exec criticises LIV but seeks civility PGA of America chief executive officer Seth Waugh fanned the flames of the PGA Tour-LIV Golf civil war even as he called for civility at this week’s PGA Championship. Waugh told British newspaper The Times that players who left the PGA Tour for Saudi-backed LIV have “disappeared” and the breakaway series has no viable survival plan. “The good news is the Masters went first and set the stage for, frankly, civility,” Waugh told the Times. “That’s the tone we want – nobody died, right?” Waugh, however, ripped into LIV Golf, declaring such stars as Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson diminished after leaving the tour. “I don’t think division is good for the game,” Waugh added. “Hopefully it’s good for those individuals that have made whatever decisions they have, but the game has moved on. “It has amplified those who have stayed and the ones who have left have largely disappeared from the landscape – in terms of an exposure perspective.” Barca fans celebrate La Liga titles with players BARCELONA players from the men’s and women’s teams lapped up affection from thousands of supporters in the city’s streets yesterday afternoon to celebrate their dual league titles. Xavi Hernandez’s side beat Espanyol on Sunday to win the club’s 27th league title and first since 2019, while Barca’s women’s team earned their fourth consecutive Liga F win at the end of April. The players rode in two open-top buses, heading from the Nou Camp to the city’s Arc de Triomf monument 8km away, the streets lined with jubilant supporters despite the threat of rain. Defender Ronald Araujo was draped in an Uruguayan flag, while La Liga’s top scorer Robert Lewandowski, wearing sunglasses and a Barcelona scarf, waved to fans. Coach Xavi, whose name was chanted frequently, threw down a can of beer to delighted thirsty fans below. Players from both sides wore t-shirts proclaiming “the league is ours, the future too”. Crowds increased as the buses headed along their route, to the main square, Plaza Catalunya, and then on towards the Arc. “You can see the fans are very excited about it and obviously we are too,” goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen told club television. “It’s a pride to share this with them and have them closer than ever.” Country Gold Silver Bronze Vietnam 125 101 100 Thailand 101 79 93 Indonesia 78 71 97 Cambodia 72 68 112 Philippines 51 80 105 Singapore 44 40 59 Malaysia 30 44 95 Myanmar 20 23 63 Laos 6 20 56 Brunei 2 1 6 Timor-Leste 0 0 8 2023 SEA GAMES MEDAL TALLY Malaysia’s Roy King Yap (right) and Cheng Su Yin in action during their mixed doubles match yesterday. – REUTERSPIX

23 * SPORTS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 17, 2023 KYLE WALKER-PETERS believes instability caused by an influx of new signings contributed significantly to Southampton’s relegation. Saints have spent the majority of a dismal campaign in the Premier League drop zone and were finally condemned to the Championship by Saturday’s 2-0 loss to Fulham. The division’s bottom side recruited 15 players across the last two transfer windows, while current boss Ruben Selles is the third man in charge this term following the sackings of Ralph Hasenhuttl and Nathan Jones. England defender Walker-Peters admits individuals have under-performed but feels background upheaval has not helped the club’s predicament. “No it hasn’t,” said the 26-year-old. “Being 100% honest, that has been really tough for everyone. “When I first came here it was a smaller squad, a tight-knit squad and sometimes when there is a lot of change it makes things hard. “On the pitch we haven’t been good enough, we haven’t done our jobs well enough and ultimately that is why we’re getting relegated. “We haven’t scored enough goals, we haven’t stopped enough goals and ultimately if you’re not good enough in both boxes then it’s hard to win games,” said Walker-Peters. “That has been the story of our season.” Dropping into the Championship is likely to spark a player exodus at St Mary’s, with WalkerPeters one of those expected to attract interest. “There are still two more games so that is my main focus – try and make those results positive and see what happens after there,” he said. “I’m not looking too much into my future yet.” Asked how the club bounce back, he replied: “It is not for me to say, the club have their own ideas and they will want to bounce back asap. “They’ll try and keep everyone they can and everyone they want to keep and try and bounce back from there.” – The Independent Gunners title agony What Arteta needs to match City’s pace next season ARSENAL have had worse days since Mikel Arteta took over, and certainly had worse seasons, but it has been rare to see the Basque as dejected as this. He looked more defeated than his team. Usually keen to use any media appearance as a message to his players, Arteta this time looked like he would rather be anywhere other than his post-match press conference following the 3-0 home defeat to Brighton. Answers were mumbled. Comments were unclear. Within it all, though, there was one line that stood out. “If the team can show that face as well, there are things that have to be addressed.” Put more bluntly, there will be changes, and not just squad improvements. This was a team that had lost their drive, and consequently their edge. Arteta insisted that Manchester City’s earlier 3-0 win over Everton should not have affected his side but it was difficult not to think that that had been the case. The manager is also entitled to be critical of his team for losing concentration. That’s how you start stamping out such a mentality and improving the team further. He knows it will feed into wider criticism of him and the team. Some of it will be fair. It can be said Arsenal weren’t up to the required level, either as a team or in a psychological sense. A harsher description of their collapse is that they “bottled it”. They probably did, especially if the base description of that overused phrase is mental pressure affecting performance levels. It’s also true that Arsenal drastically overperformed this season, and that they can be proud of their efforts. Arteta said as much himself. “You have to do a lot of good things, incredible things, to be second in this league, and we’ve done that.” If you stand back, this is really a very young side that has pushed itself to its outer limits and couldn’t give any more. They might have given all they could this season, but there is surely more to come. The true value of this campaign may be in highlighting to Arteta exactly where his team is short – and to use that knowledge to go one step further in the future. The default position at the start of any season is that City under Guardiola will win the title. In the end, they went on the unstoppable run everyone expected. Arsenal literally couldn’t compete against that, at least this season. It has at least served to show what Arteta requires. Arsenal are also one of few clubs that at least have the resources and size to sustain something like a challenge over a mediumterm spell. This is central to sizeable summer ambitions, that involve a higher class of player. Arteta wants at least four. He doesn’t need to be too critical of this team, though. They have done all they can, and more than almost anyone expected. – The Independent Constant change made things hard for Saints: Walker-Peters BRUNO FERNANDES has been delighted by Alejandro Garnacho’s progress but warned the Manchester United teenager that he cannot relax if he is going to fulfil his potential. A year and two days after his starring role in the club’s FA Cup Youth Cup triumph against Nottingham Forest, the 18-year-old was once again in goalscoring form at Old Trafford on Saturday. Garnacho had been out for two months with an ankle injury and he returned with a bang against Wolves, with the substitute scoring a fine, late goal in front of the Stretford End to wrap up a 2-0 win. Skipper Fernandes threaded through the Argentinian to score and hopes the nascent talent can “score much more until the end of the season.” “Obviously, we know Garna can change games,” the Portugal midfielder said. “He plays with pace, he can take players one against one. “But he’s still developing himself, so we don’t have to go and push so much to him because he’s still a young kid. “He can do great things, but in the future he has to do much better than actually he is doing because he has more than the capability to be even better than he is actually (right now). “He’s been doing amazing for the first season he’s been playing in the Premier League, with more minutes, with more consistency. He’s doing great, but we all know he can do much more for us.” Garnacho recently signed a new deal keeping him at Old Trafford until 2028 after impressing in his first full season. He has also won around Erik ten Hag having irked him during pre-season, with Fernandes claiming he “didn’t have the best attitude” during that period. “That message was from the manager, it was not from me,” Fernandes said. “I just heard what the manager said. “What I have to say to Garnacho, I tell him at the training ground, whenever we are eating, on the training ground or wherever. “If he wants to hear, he hears. If not, he doesn’t but I try to help. “He’s still young, and I don’t want to give too much compliments because you know when you’re young, you get too many compliments, you can get a little bit relaxed and everything. “We need this Alejandro coming on and making goals, making assists, getting back to recover balls – everything. “But I think if he wasn’t doing what he needed to do, he wouldn’t be playing.” – The Independent Bruno warns Garnacho he cannot relax at United █ MIGUEL DELANEY █ ED ELLIOT █ SIMON PEACH Pogba unlikely to return JUVENTUS midfielder Paul Pogba is likely to miss the rest of the season after the club confirmed yesterday that he had sustained a thigh injury during their 2-0 triumph over Cremonese in Serie A on Sunday. The Frenchman has struggled with multiple injuries this season and lasted a little over 20 minutes before he injured himself again, leaving the field in tears. According to a club statement, Pogba has been diagnosed with a low-grade lesion of the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh. While the club did not provide a specific timeline for Pogba’s return, SportMediaset reported that injuries of similar severity typically require a recovery period of around 20 days. Juve’s final match of the season is scheduled for June 4 at Udinese in Serie A, making it unlikely that Pogba will return this season. Sabitzer out with knee injury ON-LOAN Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer has been ruled out of their last three Premier League games and next month’s FA Cup final due to a knee injury, the club said yesterday. Sabitzer, 29, joined United from Bayern Munich in January on a short-term deal until the end of the season. He has scored three times in 18 appearances and won the League Cup in February. “Marcel Sabitzer has suffered a meniscal injury which will, unfortunately, rule him out for the remainder of the season,” United said in a statement. “Everyone at the club is disappointed to lose Marcel’s services, as we strive for a strong finish to our season… and we appreciate his contribution to our progress so far.” Bielsa named Uruguay coach MARCELO BIELSA was named coach of Uruguay yesterday, the 67-year-old Argentine tasked with taking them to the 2026 World Cup. Bielsa, who was sacked by Leeds United in February last year, takes over from Diego Alonso after he oversaw a disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign. “The man from Rosario will take the reins of the squad after his tenure at Leeds, a club which he managed between June 2018 and February 2022,” Uruguay’s football association said in naming Bielsa to the post. He has had a long career in football management, coaching a dozen teams including his native Argentina, Chile, Athletic Bilbao, Lille and most recently Premier League side Leeds. ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Leicester 0 Liverpool 3 (Jones 33, 36, Alexander-Arnold 71). P W D L F A Pts Man City 35 27 4 4 92 31 85 Arsenal 36 25 6 5 83 42 81 Newcastle 35 18 12 5 63 31 66 Man Utd 35 20 6 9 51 41 66 Liverpool 36 19 8 9 70 42 65 Brighton 34 17 7 10 66 45 58 Tottenham 36 17 6 13 65 59 57 Aston Villa 36 17 6 13 48 44 57 Brentford 36 13 14 9 54 45 53 Fulham 36 15 6 15 52 49 51 Chelsea 35 11 10 14 36 41 43 Crystal Palace 36 11 10 15 37 46 43 Wolves 36 11 7 18 30 52 40 Bournemouth 36 11 6 19 37 69 39 West Ham 36 10 7 19 38 52 37 Nottm Forest 36 8 10 18 36 67 34 Everton 36 7 11 18 32 56 32 Leeds 36 7 10 19 46 71 31 Leicester 36 8 6 22 49 67 30 Southampton 36 6 6 24 31 66 24 LA LIGA: Real Betis 3 (Sabaly 5, Perez 44, Iglesias 90+6) Rayo Vallecano 1 (Comesana 52). TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Barcelona 34 27 4 3 64 13 85 Real Madrid 34 22 5 7 70 32 71 Atletico 34 21 6 7 60 27 69 Real Sociedad 34 18 8 8 45 31 62 Villarreal 34 17 6 11 52 35 57 Real Betis 34 16 7 11 43 38 55 SERIE A: Sampdoria 1 Empoli 1. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Napoli 35 26 5 4 70 25 83 Juventus 35 21 6 8 54 28 69 Inter Milan 35 21 3 11 66 37 66 Lazio 35 19 8 8 54 28 65 AC Milan 35 17 10 8 55 41 61 Roma 35 17 8 10 45 33 59  CHAMPIONS  RELEGATED SIDENETTING RESULTS & STANDINGS Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (centre) reacts duringhis teams match against Brighton. – REUTERSPIX

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] J URGEN KLOPP vowed Liverpool will maintain the pressure in the race for the Champions League after a routine 3-0 win at Leicester. Curtis Jones’ quickfire double and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s fabulous goal kept their push for the top four alive while plunging the Foxes closer to the drop. Second-bottom Leicester are two points from Premier League safety with two games left and go to Newcastle next week. Victory means Liverpool have booked European football next season and they sit fifth, a point behind Newcastle and Manchester United, who have both played a game less. “Our job is to keep the pressure (on Newcastle and Manchester United), but if not this is already better than we could have expected six or seven weeks ago,” Klopp said. “I have no clue what it means to us. Four or five years ago we had Chelsea on our neck and they were winning all the time. I think it was the year we finished fourth and had to go in the qualification. “We had to win the last game and until the last we had to win, win, win, because behind us they were always winning. “We made it anyway and that’s what I expect them to do as well, if I am honest. “But it keeps you on your toes and that’s our job – we have to keep them on their toes and then we will see what happens. “Six or seven weeks ago I didn’t believe it could happen. What we lacked at the time was consistency. “The game never became the game it could have been, a real fight, challenges everywhere, because we controlled it in a really convincing way.” Alisson Becker snuffed out an early chance for Jamie Vardy and Liverpool swiftly took control, with Jones’ double ending the game as a contest before the break. The midfielder opened the scoring after 33 minutes when he arrived unmarked at the far post to steer in Mohamed Salah’s cross. Three minutes later he collected another Salah pass to swivel and blast past Daniel Iversen from just inside the box. Leicester had capitulated and only Iversen’s smart save stopped Cody Gakpo making it 3-0 soon after. Harvey Barnes tested Alisson early in the second half, but there was little fight from the Foxes and Liverpool ultimately eased to victory. Alexander-Arnold rubber stamped the points with a stunning 25-yard strike following Salah’s short free-kick with 19 minutes left. Salah should have made it 4-0 rather than shoot wide after going clean through and Leicester were booed off. They are teetering on the brink of relegation two years to the day since lifting the FA Cup for the first time. Boss Dean Smith said: “We are all supporters in here, we all support clubs, and you want to see your club winning. We got beaten by a team who physically overran us when they got a 2-0 lead. “I wouldn’t question our fight, our attitude, but I understand and we all should hear the supporters. If you are losing 2-0 or 3-0 at home and fighting a relegation battle I understand fans react in certain ways. “Of course I do (believe they can survive). I don’t like playing Monday nights, I don’t think it’s right. We will certainly know what we will have to do at St James’ Park next week. “Goals change games. I could throw their goalkeeper 50 balls and they wouldn’t score from one of his big kicks. “It was a really disappointing goal to give away. For the second, Wilf (Ndidi) has tried to read a pass and they play it to Jones who scores a good goal. “Our minds get a little frazzled then and we needed to get into halftime without any further pain.” – The Independent 26 / 9 Picture: Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS UEFA Champions League 2022-23 S-FINAL, 2ND LEG – MAY 17 @ 3am in M’sia CL form W D L Form Goals for / against Passes Corners Possession 27 / 5 26 / 9 MAN CITY vs REAL MADRID Etihad Stadium First leg result: 1-1 Head-to-head Won 3 Drawn 3 Won 3 6 3 521 7 57% 10 Total shots / Shots on target 399 8 43% 13 First leg statistics Source: UEFA *Excl. May 13-15 matches © GRAPHIC NEWS KEY BATTLES: Erling Haaland endured frustrating first leg – completing just 21 touches – being expertly marshalled by Antonio Rudiger, while recalled Kyle Walker (Man City, right) superbly matched electric pace of Vinicius Jr or download app from the App Store or Google Play TM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my FREE access Interactive Laporte says treble-chasing Man City ‘deserve many things’ MANCHESTER CITY defender Aymeric Laporte is hopeful of their treble chances as he believes Pep Guardiola’s side “deserve many things”. If City beat Real Madrid tomorrow (3am Malaysian time) they will be in their second Champions League final in three seasons, and that will quickly be followed by the chance to lift a fifth Premier League title in six years on Sunday with a victory over Chelsea. A first all-Manchester FA Cup final awaits on June 3 and, after a key weekend in which Arsenal’s 3-0 defeat at home to Brighton gave City the opportunity to win the Premier League at home with two matches to spare, Laporte admits the focus is narrowing. “It’s massive for us and important for the season,” he said of the 3-0 win over Everton on Sunday which set up this weekend’s potential celebration at the Etihad Stadium. “We deserve many things. Hopefully we can get the treble, but we have to be focused in every single game, do what we have done in the last few weeks even more.” A key figure in recent matches has been midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, who scored twice for the second successive game while also providing an assist for Erling Haaland in the win at Everton. Guardiola has praised his captaincy skills, admitting the German does not say a lot but when he does his teammates listen with the 32-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, preferring to lead by example. It is why Gundogan is probably the most grounded of the treble-chasing squad as, when asked what is required from them for the rest of the season, he said: “To keep the group calm and not get too over-excited. “It’s a game every three or four days so there’s not a lot of time to recover so we have to try to make the most out of it. “We know in the final stages of the season we need every single player. It doesn’t matter who’s playing, it’s about the group and the support for each other. “If we can keep the spirits in that way, it can be an amazing end to the season for us.” While Real Madrid managed to blunt goalscoring phenom Haaland in the first leg of their Champions League semifinal last week, there was no stopping the brilliance of Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian’s thunderbolt at the Bernabeu left the tie delicately balanced at 1-1 heading into tomorrow’s second leg, but City are oozing confidence thanks to a 100% record in 14 home games in 2023. Widely considered one of the Premier League’s finest imports, the 31-year-old has twice been crowned players’ player of the year by his peers alongside a growing haul of 10 major trophies under Guardiola. But City’s failure to get over the line in the Champions League and the Belgian golden generation’s lack of a major tournament victory means he has not always commanded the same level of respect on the continent. De Bruyne’s third-placed finish the Ballon d’Or voting last year is the highest of his career. That could all change should he be the one to make the difference and put Madrid to the sword, as he did in the first leg. Despite the attention on Haaland’s halfcentury of goals in his first season in England, De Bruyne has continued to be crucial to City’s success. He has 27 assists in 43 appearances this season, becoming the fastest player to 100 Premier League assists in the process. “He’s not comfortable to play with a pause, he needs to play with speed,” said Guardiola. “The normal players, when you walk, you see everything. But when you run a high speed, you are not able to see what happened. He’s completely the opposite. That’s why he is an exceptional player.” – The Independent/AFP █ NICK MASHITER No let up! Liverpool will battle for top-four spot, says Klopp after Reds push Foxes closer to exit TOP: Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp (left) congratulates Curtis Jones at the end of the English Premier League match against Leicester at the King Power Stadium yesterday. BOTTOM: Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold celebrates his teams third goal. AFPPIX WEDNESDAY • MAY 17, 2023