TELLING IT AS IT IS INSIDE page Govt monitoring
page Initiative to improve
3 slopes for
2 lives of vulnerable
landslide dangers
communities
ON WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 28, 2022
No. 8177 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my
HELD IN AWE ... A section of the
crowd admiring a tiger at Zoo Negara, as
visitor numbers return to pre-pandemic
levels with the year-end school holidays and
Malaysia’s transition to the endemic stage of
Covid-19. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN
Malapportioned seats
█ BY MUHAMMAD YUSRY oUndi18 and automatic voter
[email protected] registration have worsened unequal
constituency sizes, say political analysts
PETALING JAYA: The implementation
of Undi18 and automatic voter
registration has worsened the unequal
constituency sizes, or
malapportionment of constituency seats, in
Malaysia, according to political observers.
Malapportionment is the creation of initiate a redelineation exercise within eight electorate sizes for constituencies
electoral districts with divergent ratios of voters years after the last exercise in 2018. For Sarawak, within the same state have to be
to representatives. For example, if one the earliest would be 2023 while for Peninsular “approximately equal”.
single-member constituency has 10,000 voters Malaysia and Sabah, it would be 2026. “Before 1973, the maximum
and another has 100,000 voters, those in the disparity was limited to ‘two is
former constituency have 10 times the “But if Article 46 of the Federal Constitution approximately equal to one’,
influence per person over the governing body. is amended to change the composition of namely the largest constituency
Electoral watchdog Bersih 2.0 chairman Parliament, it would automatically trigger a could not have more than twice the
Thomas Fann said at the end of 2021, redelineation regardless of the eight-year limit. electorate of the smallest. Because
malapportionment worsened between the the quantifiable cap was removed
lowest number of voters in parliamentary “Changing the electoral system to a after 1973, although the
constituency P207 Igan (28,290) in Sarawak and proportional representation (PR) one as ‘approximately equal’ was retained,
the highest P102 Bangi (303,430) in Selangor, opposed to the current first-past-the-post the EC treated that as a blank
with the ratio of 10.7 to one. system that depends on the apportionment of cheque.”
“It means that it takes more than 10 Bangi voters to constituencies would eliminate Wong said up until 2005,
voters to have the same representation in electoral manipulation through delineation parliamentary seats (and
Parliament or that the Bangi MP has to serve 10 and minimise the phenomenon of ‘wasted correspondingly state seats) were
times as many voters as the Igan MP,” he said. votes,’ where voters of losing candidates have no added during every constituency
According to the Electoral Integrity Project representation. delimitation exercise.
report in 2017, Malaysia has one of the worst “Instead of correcting inter-state and Johor.
electoral boundaries in the world, with vast “In PR, voters vote for parties instead of malapportionment, by adding seats to the “Worse, seats were often
malapportionment and boundaries that do individual candidates and seats are allocated more under-represented states, such seat Turn to
not follow administrative boundaries or according to the percentage of popular votes a increase often worsened the problem. (divided) with new
irrationally divide villages or housing estates. party received in the election,” Fann told “Seats were added to over-represented constituencies tailor-made for —
theSun. Barisan Nasional component
parties in mind. page 2
Political scientist Prof Dr Wong Chin Huat
“The Election Commission (EC) cannot said Subsection 2(c) of the 13th Schedule of the Barisan Nasional strong states such as Pahang
Federal Constitution stipulates that the
2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
‘MPs’ responsibilities
misunderstood’
“Most countries fix their number of
legislative seats for a strong period of time, but
seats will be reallocated from states with
decreasing electorate sizes to those
with increasing electorate sizes,
in a process called
From reapportionment.”
Wong said to ensure the
front “approximately equal”
page
demand of the Federal
Constitution is enforced in the
next delimitation exercise, Parliament may
pass a parliamentary act with a simple
majority to spell out the acceptable range for
“approximately equal”.
“Alternatively, each state can amend their
state Constitution to stipulate the range of
voters that each state assemblyman may
represent, which will indirectly constrain the
malapportionment of parliamentary
constituencies in the state,” he said.
Meanwhile, Subang MP Wong Chen, who
currently serves 230,940 voters in his
constituency, said the role of an MP is mainly
A cooking class being conducted to teach participants how to prepare healthy meals. – PIC COURTESY OF BERJAYA policy-making at national level.
“My first role as an MP is to debate, discuss
Initiative to improve lives and pass the law in Parliament. Second is to
of vulnerable communities develop and improve policies including
economic, political and socioeconomic in a
select committee. Lastly, every year from
October to December, all MPs are to debate
the national budget as it is the public’s money
at stake. How will it be spent? So we will
debate it in the parliamentary sessions,” he
told theSun.
Wong said most voters misunderstood
MPs’ responsibilities with those of local
authorities.’
Insurance chief executive officer “When voters are concerned about certain
o Programme aimed at uplifting living standards of B40 group Tan Sek Kee. subjects at a national level, such as corruption
and providing learning opportunities for underprivileged children or improving the economy, we will represent
Generasi Gemilang chief them but most of the time, 70% to 80% of them
executive officer Melissa Ngiam will complain to us regarding clogged drains,
said the pandemic revealed that road paving, garbage collection and such.
KUALA LUMPUR: Throughout below three, suffering from the learned about the history of Malaysians are compassionate. “That is the job for the state government,
2022, Berjaya Sompo Insurance triple burden of malnutrition chocolate, and got the opportunity state assemblymen and local authorities such
Bhd (Berjaya Sompo), under its (undernutrition, hidden hunger, to taste some of the sweet treats, “Along with Berjaya Sompo, we as the Public Works Department or Subang
Environmental, Social and and micronutrient deficiency). Bernama reported. could provide our services to Jaya City Council like in my place.
Governance (ESG) social pillar combat issues of nutrition and Unfortunately, we don’t have the power to
initiatives, partnered with Yayasan The programme, which “An article by Unicef reported literacy with a personal touch, resolve residency issues ourselves.
Generasi Gemilang to educate and targeted parents and children, that before Covid-19, 5.6% of making all the difference in “What we can do is advise the state
provide basic needs to vulnerable included nutrition education as Malaysian households (405,400) providing a hand-up instead of just assemblyman in that area to advise the local
communities. well as engagement activities to lived in poverty. In 2020, the handouts. authorities to fix it. It is best for voters to
build nutrition awareness through number of households living in directly go to their local authorities about their
The initiative helped to improve creative meal preparations that poverty rose to 639,800 due to the “Together, we saw 30 families complaints,” he said.
their livelihood and provide encourage children to eat healthily. pandemic. and 80 students making a family
learning opportunities for children cooking class memorable, and an Govt to address
in the B40 group. A cooking class was held as part “The study highlighted that outing to a museum a celebration issues faced by
of the toddlers’ nutrition affected families, who live in of the students’ learning efforts and national athletes
The collaboration saw programme for families to come low-cost flats, experience character growth.”
volunteers from Berjaya Sompo together and learn how to prepare multi-dimensional poverty from KUALA LUMPUR: The Youth and Sports
and Generasi Gemilang reaching healthy meals while saving costs. malnutrition and poor access to She said the initiative helped Ministry hopes to resolve the problem of lack
out to about 100 families from PPR education. the shared spirit of care in society of participation by national athletes in
(People’s Housing Project) Berjaya Sompo and Generasi to be passed on to the next competitive championships.
communities through various Gemilang also organised an “We are honoured to have generation, and was another step
programmes such as a nutrition education mentoring session for Yayasan Generasi Gemilang as a towards breaking the poverty cycle. Its minister Hannah Yeoh said the problem
programme for toddlers in PPR children to experience inclusive partner in our efforts to do our part was among issues raised at an engagement
Taman Putra Damai, Lembah learning opportunities. for the well-being and social Berjaya Sompo strives to session with 320 athletes of various
Subang. inclusion of these families through continuously contribute to disciplines, who felt that this lack of
Volunteers were assigned to these initiatives to bring a positive sustainable educational efforts that competitive action had hindered their
It aimed to improve the accompany groups of four change for the B40 community in aim to empower and equip progress.
nutrition and health of children students each to the Chocolate Malaysia,” said Berjaya Sompo children from all walks of life with
Museum, where the children the necessary skills to face the “The issue of insufficient exposure to
future. competitive championships was also raised
during the engagement session.
RM3.3m for youth livestock Perak implements flood
breeding programme mitigation projects “They (athletes) want to be sent for more
competitions to improve their performance
IPOH: The Perak government “In line with a royal decree IPOH: The Perak government takes “The silt dug up from rivers are not and gain more experience.”
has allocated over RM3.3 to empower youth, a Modern flood issues seriously, and has taken away since transport costs are
million under a Young Farmer Brigade programme implemented several flood mitigation high and require district and land She was speaking after opening a Lawn
Agropreneur Programme to has also been launched for projects, particularly in the Larut, office approvals. Bowls Open Fours Championship at Bukit
enable 237 entrepreneurs to those below the age of 40, Matang and Selama districts, the state Kiara yesterday.
carry out livestock breeding aimed at developing this group assembly was told yesterday. “However, the department has
projects since 2015, the state and making agriculture a career forged a smart partnership with Yeoh said the ministry would also look into
assembly was told yesterday. and a source of income for State Infrastructure, Energy, Water Mentri Besar Incorporated to carry the issue of high costs for renting sports
State Rural Development, them.” and Public Transport Committee out dredging works at main rivers, facilities to organise championships in the
Agriculture and Food chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad and the state executive council has country.
Industries Committee He was replying to Jason Ng Nizar Jamaluddin said the costly given a blanket approval,” he said in
chairman Datuk Mohd Zolkafly Thien Yeong (DAP-Astaka), projects, including Phase 1 of the response to a question from Khalil “At the engagement session, many sports
Harun said it is part of the state who wanted to know the Sungai Larut Flood Mitigation Yahya (PAS-Kubu Gajah) on flood associations asked for rentals to be reduced to
government’s measures to help initiatives taken by the state Project implemented through mitigation measures taken by the make it easier for them (to organise
the entrepreneurs boost their government to help and the Irrigation and Drainage state government. tournaments).
skills, knowledge and encourage youths to venture Department, were constructed using
productivity. into agriculture and livestock federal government development Mohammad Nizar added that “Athletes want more competitions but
“Entrepreneurs or young farming. allocations. through the smart partnership, soil organisers find rentals prohibitive, so this
farmers can participate in the excavated from rivers is sold, enabling problem should be settled together.”
programme through the Perak Mohd Zolkafly said the state “The department is responsible for the state government to save costs
Agriculture Department Agriculture Department is also maintaining rivers to reduce flood and reduce the risk of flooding. She added that the ministry was compiling
whereby they can get financial providing several types of problems, and one of the measures findings from the engagement session and
assistance or incentives of up to training, including farm taken is dredging rivers and building He said flood mitigation projects would find the best solution to the problems,
RM20,000 each. management and livestock bunds with the silt to stop water from are one of the long-term solutions to including collaborating with local
farming technology to bolster flowing inland. prevent flooding in high-risk areas. government authorities who have jurisdiction
productivity. – Bernama – Bernama over sports facilities. – Bernama
█ BY ARINA MUSTHAFA Govt monitoring 3theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
[email protected] ‘high-risk’ slopes NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
PETALING JAYA: The Works Ministry has
listed Pahang, Perak, Kelantan and Selangor o Four states identified as having the most locations Call for more flights,
as the four states in Peninsular Malaysia with with danger of landslide occurence low fares for festivals
the most hotspots for slope failure and most
likely to experience landslides. warning signs and traffic management plans uploading the information on the PWD and KUALA LUMPUR: Former transport minister
for road users are taken,” he told theSun. SEB social media accounts.” Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong yesterday called for
The “Slope Hazard and Risk Map” local airlines to offer additional flights and
developed in 2020 by the Public Works Nanta also said the ministry has increased He said in ensuring that every department cheap return airfares between Peninsular
Department (PWD) Slope Engineering the frequency of patrols at the hotspots, works seamlessly, the ministry will be Malaysia and Sabah and Sarawak during the
Branch (SEB) indicates 1,045 very high-risk especially during the rainy season. distributing Slope Hazard and Risk Map data upcoming festive seasons.
slopes and 976 high risk slopes along federal to the National Disaster Management Agency
roads that are being monitored closely during He added that monitoring would be and local authorities. In a Facebook post, Wee said a few months
the monsoon season. conducted visually, such as going on-site and ago, the Malaysian Aviation Commission
doing detailed inspections of the condition of Nanta added that among measures taken (Mavcom) and the Civil Aviation Authority of
Some of the hotspots are FT4 Lebuhraya structures and components on slopes. to address landslide issues, the ministry was Malaysia (CAAM) had discussions with local
Timur-Barat, FT6 main road that circles the monitoring soil movement through the PWD airlines on additional flights after midnight,
Penang island, FT8 Jalan Bentong-Gua To ensure smooth traffic in landslide- landslide Early Warning System (EWS), which with recommendations made to Malaysia
Musang-Kuala Krai, FT36 Jalan Aring prone areas, he said PWD would put up traffic involves installation of instruments at slopes Airport Holdings Berhad (MAHB) to extend its
8-Kenyir-Kuala Jeneris, FT55 Jalan Kuala management signs, create detours and if that have been categorised as a hotspot. operations, which had been agreed in principle.
Kubu Baru-Gap-Tranum, FT56 Jalan necessary, close the road and notify the public
Gap-Bukit Fraser, FT59 Jalan Tapah-Cameron of alternative routes through social media. “EWS also involves using Robotic Total “Very soon, we will be celebrating Chinese
Highlands, FT68 Jalan Kuala Lumpur- Stations (RTS) that measures rainfall intensity New Year and after that, Hari Raya Aidilfitri. We
Bentong (Jalan Bentong Lama), FT86 Jalan He said the ministry will identify slopes as a landslide early warning (indicator). Slope hope MAS, Air Asia, Batik Air and a new local
Seremban-Kuala Klawang-Simpang Pertang, that need to be strengthened according to surface movement data provided by RTS will airline, MyAirline, which started its operation in
FT102 Jalan Pos Betau-Lembah Bertam, priority, based on the Slope Hazard and Risk be then sent to the EWS for analysis and will December, can implement these suggestions.
FT148 Jalan Baru Gap-Fraser’s Hill, FT185 Map, and carry out repairs, prevention and be displayed on the EWS website and
Jalan Simpang Pulai-Blue Valley-Lojing-Gua maintenance works, adding that the ministry monitored by PWD. If the soil movement and “Adding capacity and the number of flights
Musang and FT220 Jalan Bayan Lepas-Pekan was working with the community and local rainfall intensity exceed the threshold limit, during peak season is an effective step to
Air Hitam. authorities to create an awareness the EWS will be triggered and it will notify overcome congestion and reduce airfares.
programme on the dangers of landslides. the supervising PWD personnel to take
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander precautionary measures and conduct an “Certainly, this measure has been
Nanta Linggi said during the monsoon “The programme includes putting up on-site inspection to identify any signs of anticipated by the people, especially those who
season, the frequency of inspections and advertisements on landslide hazard slope failure,” he said. wish to return to their hometowns for happy
patrols along federal roads and slopes have awareness in local newspapers in Malay, occasions with their families and loved ones.”
been increased, especially on hazardous and English, Mandarin and Tamil as well as
high-risk slope locations. We said he was confident the suggestions
can be executed, especially with the new Kuala
“This is done to ensure the drainage Lumpur Air Traffic Control Complex, which will
system is working well and not clogged, which increase the movement of flights at the KL
could hinder water flow, cause flooding and International Airport and klia2 to 108 per hour
contribute to slope failure. with the simultaneous use of three lanes
compared to only 84 an hour with only two
“PWD is prepared around-the-clock to lanes used previously. – Bernama
mobilise in the event of slope failure or other
(hazards), to ensure all (vital) points are Govt agencies, GLC
secured and appropriate precautions such as urged to render aid
SHOCK WAVES ... Part of a pavement lies damaged along the seaside near the iconic drawbridge in Kuala Terengganu after the area was battered MACHANG: Government agencies and
as a result of recent king tides that hit the coast. – BERNAMAPIC government-linked companies (GLC) have
been urged to engage in corporate social
Airline ‘deeply regrets’ delay at KLIA responsibility (CSR) programmes to assist those
affected by floods.
KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air, formerly known improvement in our customer service and our operations at the KLIA terminal have
as Malindo Air, yesterday expressed regret delivery. resumed to normal,” it said. Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad
over prolonged delays in flight departures Maslan said government agencies and GLC
from the KL International Airport (KLIA) last “We deeply regret that the delays have Transport Minister Anthony Loke earlier should set an example to others in activities
Friday, which caused much inconvenience to caused much inconvenience to our urged Batik Air to issue an apology and be such as assisting those affected by natural
passengers. passengers and their families.” accountable for the incident. disasters.
Batik Air said in a statement the company The airline said food vouchers were He was responding to a tweet by a “GLC, especially those under the Finance
will contact all affected passengers to offer provided during the delay, but not passenger who said he had been stranded Ministry must be proactive and not wait for
them complimentary vouchers. accommodation as all hotels in the area were at KLIA for more than seven hours due to directives to assist those in need during natural
fully booked. the delay. disasters, especially floods. Once they are aware
“The cause of the incident is currently of such disasters like floods, fire or
being investigated and we will build on any “We have no intention of causing the delay The video tweet also showed stranded thunderstorms, they should engage in helping
lapses in our operations for continuous to be prolonged and we would like to reassure passengers sleeping on benches near the the needy,” he said after presenting RM800,000
the public that the situation has been rectified departure gate. – Bernama in financial assistance to 800 recipients affected
by floods at the Machang Land and District
office yesterday.
Ahmad added that agencies under the
ministry such as the Inland Revenue Board
and Customs Department need to be involved
in CSR programmes to assist communities
in need.
“I can only give directives to government
agencies and GLC under the ministry,” he said.
– Bernama
Kedah sends rice to
flood evacuees
ALOR STAR: The Kedah Tithe Board (KTB) will
be sending 24,000 packs of rice worth
RM300,000 to flood evacuees in Kelantan and
Terengganu.
The Raja Muda of Kedah Tengku Sarafudin
Badlishah Sultan Sallehuddin expressed hope
that the contribution would help to ease the
burden of those affected, especially in getting
basic necessities.
“We all live in this country, so we need to
help each other regardless of which state we live
in,” he said in his speech after flagging-off the
aid convoy at the compound of the Darul Aman
Stadium yesterday.
He also advised residents in flood-affected
areas to evacuate when instructed to do so and
to return home only when allowed by the
authorities, Bernama reported.
Meanwhile, KTB CEO Datuk Syeikh Zakaria
Othman said 12,000 packs of rice would be
handed to the Kelantan Islamic Religious and
Malay Customs Council, while the remaining
12,000 would be sent to the Terengganu Islamic
Religious and Malay Customs Council.
4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022 FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ME
@thesundaily
Creating child-friendly I owe RM20.75m
haven at relief centres win to deity,
says housewife
o Activist aims to keep young flood evacuees occupied by aid kits, sanitary pads, toothpaste and sanitisers;
providing toys and books to help them cope with trauma the Infant and Toddler Box is filled with toys for KUALA LUMPUR: A 50-year-old Perak
young children; the Games Box is for older housewife scooped the RM20.75 million
█ BY DHARSHINI GANESON 1,600kg of toys that were practically new as they children; the Literacy Box contains books for Toto 4D Jackpot 1 on Dec 14 after
[email protected] had been returned due to being slightly children; and the Stationery Box.” “receiving” the winning numbers from a
KUALA LUMPUR: The floods have dealt a damaged. These toys would have ended up in a deity.
devastating blow to families, including children landfill. Instead, we gave them to the children at Wong is working with National Disaster
losing all their toys and books, which would relief centres to keep them occupied,” said Management Agency and the Social Welfare When collecting her haul at the STM
adversely affect their mental health and Wong, who believes in reusing toys instead of Department to deliver these boxes and getting Lottery Sdn Bhd head office here, the lucky
well-being in the long term. buying new ones. volunteers to clean and sanitise the toys and punter revealed that she was “given” her
books before packing them for delivery. winning numbers 9506 and 1406 by a local
Play Unlimited co-founder Datin P.H. Wong, “Sometimes, children are overlooked during deity known as “Datuk Kong”.
in partnership with Da Men Mall in USJ 1, floods and other disasters as parents and She said childcare centres and colleges in
Subang Jaya, aims to soften the blow by creating caregivers struggle with their own losses, and are various states have offered to help collect and “As a faithful believer, I always offer my
a safe child-friendly place in flood relief centres, caught up with salvaging their damaged deliver the boxes. prayer to Datuk Kong at His shrine,
and providing children with toys and books. belongings,” said Wong, who is also a child whenever I go back to my hometown.
activist. Wong is also in partnership with Malaysia’s
“The toys are not purchased but donated. For International Search and Rescue (Misar), a non- “Sometimes, I would pray for fortune
example, toy manufacturer Emco delivered “We have packed five different types of boxes. governemental organisation with 27 years’ and I am so blessed that He has granted me
“The Hygiene and Safety Box contains first experience. a pair of winning numbers,” she said,
adding that when she saw the winning
Misar founder and chairman numbers pop up on the Sports Toto result
K. Balasupramaniam said it was important to board, she was so excited that she could
keep the children occupied while they are at the not sleep.
centres.
The housewife bought a System 4 ticket,
which won her a whopping
RM20,752,714.20 and RM672 as the System
Play bonus.
She said she will return to the shrine
and properly thank the deity for giving her
the winning numbers and new found
wealth.
“I want to use the winnings to pay off
family debts and then think about how to
spend the money,” she said. – Bernama
Relief as 2022
draws to close
Volunteers help with the distribution of toys and other materials to children at relief centres. – SYAZWAN KAMAL/THESUN KUALA LUMPUR: Many have described
the year 2022 as a new chapter for Malaysia
Ministry stepping up Covid preparedness: Health DG when the country entered the transition to
the Covid-19 endemic phase on April 1
KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry will automated Find, Test, Trace, Isolate, and identify and coordinate patients who need to be after battling the virus outbreak for two
continue to step up its preparedness to face a Support approach, he said. referred to hospitals, as well as assess and years.
possible hike in the number of daily Covid-19 discharge positive cases whose isolation period
cases and deaths following the surge of Through the approach, individuals who has expired. Like many other countries, Malaysia
infections in China. tested postive after conducting Covid-19 decided to ease its restriction measures on
self-tests can report the results via the Noor Hisham said the ministry had also Covid-19.
Health Director-General Tan Sri Dr Noor MySejahtera app where they will be given a introduced Paxlovid to the Covid-19 Clinical
Hisham Abdullah said among the measures to home surveillance order and release order Care Pathway since April 15 to treat patients with Although there was a need to continue
be taken was to increase the percentage of digitally. mild to moderate symptoms or categories two certain standard operating procedures to
booster dose uptake to reduce the severity of and three with priority given to high-risk curb the spread of the virus, the transition
infections and risk of death. Noor Hisham said the ministry would also patients. saw gradual relaxation of restrictions being
ensure that all Covid-19 Assessment Centres implemented throughout the year.
“The ministry is urging all eligible individuals (CAC) were ready to receive a high number of He added that the ministry would closely
to take their booster dose of the vaccine to get patients. monitor the spread of the infection in the Among the relaxation that were
optimal protection against Covid-19,” he said community through the implementation of announced were the reopening of the
yesterday. The CAC’s operational functions include surveillance activities involving sentinel country’s borders, gradually lifting the
identifying patients who are suitable for home locations of influenza-like-illness and severe compulsory use of face masks, and
The rising number of cases in China was quarantine, as well as evaluating and monitoring acute respiratory infection nationwide. scanning of the MySejahtera QR code was
reported by the World Health Organisation on a patient’s progress throughout the isolation no longer required when entering
Dec 21. period. The public is advised to practise Test, Report, premises.
Isolate, Inform and Seek to prevent the spread of
The ministry will also strengthen the The CAC will also start Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir Covid-19 and other diseases. – Bernama Wearing of face masks was no longer
country’s Covid management by improving the or ritonavir) treatment for high-risk patients, mandatory outdoors from May 1. Wearing
masks indoors was not required from Sept
7, but the public has the option to wear
one if desired.
On Sept 28, travellers were no longer
required to wear face masks when on
airplanes. It was made compulsory to wear
face masks on public transport since
Aug 1, 2020.
The seven-day quarantine period for
Covid-19 positive individuals was also
reduced to four days if test showed
negative result.
Quarantine was also no longer required
for close contacts of Covid positive
individuals.
The government continues to pursue
its efforts to contain the spread of the virus
during the transition phase.
Vaccination and booster doses
continued to be given free to all
Malaysians. – Bernama
Final episode of ‘366’ drama series released
KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas has released the the viewpoint of its characters – Zhi Yi’s for memory using a special technology called One driver.
seventh and final episode of its “366” drama Chinese New Year, Poji’s for Hari Raya, Ka’andaman with the help of her family and Award-winning director Kabir Bhatia
series – Hari Ke-366, ending the suspense Adam’s for Kaamatan, Marilyn’s for Gawai, friends.
with a positive note on taking second chances Vikram’s for National Day and Malaysia Day, crafted the story plot of every character and
and the courage to live again. and Jyoti’s for Deepavali. The final episode reveals the outcome of their challenges around the love and unity of
the Ka’andaman procedure. Malaysians, in coming together and being a
Throughout 2022, 366’s episodes were The first episode focuses on Zhi Yi, who support system for one another.
released in conjunction with Malaysia’s major lost her memory following a bus accident. It also features a special appearance by
festivals, each episode featuring stories from Lewis Hamilton, eight-time world champion Hari Ke-366 is available on all of Petronas
Subsequently, she agreed to store her Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula official social media channels. – Bernama
5theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
Cybercrimes make public wary of banks
o Unfair for financial institutions to shirk responsibility and shift blame to customers: Expert apps in the market.
However, this security aspect is not foolproof
KUALA LUMPUR: The increasing cases of will be restricted to one mobile or secure device bank accounts.
cybercrimes in the country have caused the for the authentication of online banking According to Juhaida, banks should not take and there are risks whenever an individual uses
public to lose faith in banks as the custodians of transactions, Bernama reported. the internet.
their money, as they feel their deposits are no lightly cases of customers’ savings being stolen
longer safe. Universiti Utara Malaysia School of from their bank accounts and they should be He said malware like “SMSStealer” can
economics, finance and banking senior lecturer responsible for the security of the deposits. extract security codes, including transaction
Also of concern are reports that banks are Dr Juhaida Abu Bakar said “phishing” is authorisation codes, or OTP, to gain access to
not taking responsibility for such crimes, which commonly used by cyber criminals to “fish” for “It would not be fair for banks to shirk trading platforms or online banking
are committed “before their very eyes”. user data from their smartphone. their responsibility and shift the blame to transactions.
customers alone.
In light of these developments, Bank Negara She said phishing traps bank customers via He added that malware and viruses are often
Malaysia has recently instructed financial emails, text messages and apps that are sent “In fact, if an investigation finds that an installed on fake websites and apps sent to
institutions to implement five measures to from scammers, hackers or other irresponsible online theft was due to a weakness in the bank’s users.
further strengthen safeguards against scams. parties to the smartphone of account holders. security system, the onus should be on the bank
to pay compensation to the victim.” Amirudin also said if users implement
Among others, banks are required to migrate She added that mobile phone users are also proper security settings and adopt cyber
from SMS one-time passwords (OTP) to more exposed to spyware, a type of malware that CyberSecurity Malaysia CEO Datuk Dr security best practices, their risk of exposure to
secure forms of authentication, tighten fraud secretively records data and tracks the user’s Amirudin Abdul Wahab said all banking apps cyber threats would be minimised.
detection rules and triggers for blocking internet activity on their mobile devices without have their own security settings in addition
suspected scam transactions and customers their consent, including accessing their to the security systems developed by He also said end-users should not use public
smartphone manufacturers and other mobile WiFi networks for banking transactions to
minimise the risk of being exposed to malware
installed by cyber criminals to steal personal
information.
Defamation suit against rapper may be settled amicably Flood situation in
Kelantan improves
KUALA LUMPUR: The parties involved in which was also attended by lawyer Harjoth Faisal claimed that on June 28, Ariz with drop in evacuees
Datuk S.M. Faisal S.M. Nasimuddin Kamal’s Singh, representing Ariz. defamed him and the syariah court by
suit against rapper Ariz Ramli, popularly uploading a defamatory post on Instagram KUALA LUMPUR: The situation in flood-hit
known as Caprice, are trying to settle the case Faisal filed the suit against Ariz on and that the slanderous message implied that areas in Kelantan improved yesterday
amicably between themselves before the trial Aug 15 for allegedly uploading a defamatory he was a cruel, inconsiderate and reckless morning with a reduction in the number of
begins on Oct 4, 2023 at the sessions court. post on his Instagram account linking man, who wanted to imprison his ex-wife evacuees, while conditions remained
the businessman to the case of his ex-wife, and acted aggressively towards women unchanged in Terengganu, Perak, Sabah and
Counsel Puteri Ummi Kartini Abd Latiff, Emilia Hanafi. and children. Sarawak.
representing Faisal, said if the matter is not
resolved, the court has set Oct 4 to 6 next year In the statement of claim, Faisal, as the Faisal is seeking general, punitive, In Kelantan, the State Disaster
to hear the case. plaintiff, said on June 27 the Kuala Lumpur exemplary and aggravated damages and Management Committee secretariat said the
Syariah High Court had ordered Emilia to costs, in addition to an injunction order to number of evacuees at relief centres dropped
“Case management is set for July 3, 2023 for serve seven days in prison after she was found compel Ariz to delete the defamatory post. to 718 from 246 families, compared with
further directions,” she said after online case to have failed to comply with the court’s – Bernama 1,235 from 428 families on Monday night.
management before judge Azian Othman, commitment order.
All the evacuees were housed at five relief
Police probe on Batang Kali landslide nearing completion centres in Pasir Mas and Tumpat.
BANGI: Police investigations into the from 77 witnesses, including injured are being made to identify the owners. In Terengganu, the State Disaster
landslide at the Father’s Organic Farm near victims, family members, the campsite “We will not remove them because they Management Committee secretariat said the
Batang Kali are almost 90% complete, said operator, workers and rescue team number of evacuees remained at 138.
Selangor police chief Datuk Arjunaidi personnel. are buried too deep. So, it is up to the
Mohamed. vehicle owners to talk to their respective Besut was the only district still affected,
“The investigation paper was opened insurance companies about it.” with two relief centres that are still open at
He said investigations now only require under Sections 304(A) and 290 of the Penal Masjid Kampung La, which has 126 evacuees
an examination of the site, a recording of Code and the Local Government Act 1974,” The Dec 16 landslide claimed the lives of and the Kampung Pantai community hall
conversations between rescue team he said at a certificate presentation 31 people, while 61 others escaped unhurt that has 12 people.
personnel and hospital pathology reports to ceremony yesterday. or with only minor injuries.
ascertain each victim’s cause of death. In Perak, the State Disaster Management
Arjunaidi said there were as many as 20 Among the dead were 18 adults and 13 Committee secretariat said the number of
“So far, police have taken statements vehicles buried in the incident and efforts children, including a one-year-old child. evacuees in the Hilir Perak district remained
– Bernama at 62 from 14 families, who are being housed
at the Dewan SMK Abd Rahman Talib relief
centre.
In Sabah, the number of evacuees in Kota
Belud remained at 135 from 56 families.
The relief centre at SK Pekan is currently
hosting 62 evacuees from 26 families, while
73 from 30 families have been housed at
SJK(C) Chung Hwa. The number of residents
from coastal areas that were evacuated due
to the king tide phenomenon remained at
1,454 from 299 families.
Meanwhile in Sarawak, 91 evacuees were
still being housed at the Kampung Lutong
Community Hall in Sebuyau and the
Kampung Rimba Padi multipurpose hall in
Serian, the same as was recorded on Monday
night. – Bernama
CHOICE Four-year-old dies
COMMODITY ... after alleged abuse
Mohd Amirul Saad
showing salted fish JOHOR BARU: A four-year-old boy died on
sold at his Tanjung Monday at the Sultan Ismail Hospital after
Dawai shop in he was allegedly abused.
Kuala Muda,
Kedah. The Johor police chief Datuk Kamarul Zaman
location is a focal Mamat said the child was admitted to the
point for hospital on Dec 23 after fainting at a house
customers in the in Senggarang, Batu Pahat the same day.
state to buy
premium dried “He died at the hospital at 6.40pm
seafood products yesterday. A post-mortem will be conducted
at bargain prices. today,” he said yesterday, adding that the
– BERNAMAPIC victim was being cared for by his older sister,
who left him in the care of a friend.
He said police arrested two men and
three women, including the victim’s sister
and her husband.
“The case was initially being investigated
under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001,
but it has since been reclassified under
Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder.”
– Bernama
6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022 FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ME
/theSunMedia
Japan premier Jubilant Chinese according to state media reports.
loses fourth plan trips abroad Rival platform Trip.com Group
minister in
three months o Scrapping of quarantine for overseas “I felt like the epidemic is finally said the volume of searches for
arrivals effectively ends ‘zero Covid’ policy over,” said Beijing office worker Fan popular overseas destinations rose
TOKYO: Japan’s reconstruction minister Chengcheng, 27. by 10 times year-on-year within half
resigned yesterday over alleged financial BEIJING: People in China reacted Cases have surged nationwide as an hour of the announcement.
improprieties, becoming the fourth with joy yesterday and rushed to key pillars of the containment “The travel plans I made three
minister to depart Prime Minister Fumio plan trips overseas after the policy have fallen away, with years ago may now become a Users were particularly keen on
Kishida’s Cabinet in just three months. government said it would scrap authorities acknowledging the reality.” trips to Macau, Hong Kong,
mandatory Covid quarantine for outbreak is “impossible” to track Japan, Thailand and South Korea, it
Kenya Akiba, who is under fire over overseas arrivals that will end and doing away with Shanghai resident Ji Weihe said added.
alleged illegal political payments to his almost three years of self-imposed much-maligned official case tallies. the move would “benefit the
aides, wife and mother, told reporters: “I isolation. economy, peoples’ lives and their But some Chinese may face
believe there is no illegality in terms of Beijing also narrowed the desires to go out and travel”. hurdles when they do go abroad,
my actions but it is not my wish to see In a snap move on Monday, criteria by which Covid fatalities are with Japan announcing that it
proceedings for the budget and other China said from Jan 8 inbound counted last week, a move experts Another Shanghai local, would require Covid-19 tests on
legislative agendas stall.” travellers would no longer be said would suppress the number of surnamed Du, said a swifter arrival for travellers from mainland
required to quarantine on arrival in deaths attributable to the virus. reopening may help the country China from Friday.
The parliamentary vice-minister for a further unwinding of hardline reach herd immunity more quickly,
internal affairs and communications coronavirus controls that had Still, many reacted with joy to the adding that there was “no way to Rising cases in China were
also stepped down. torpedoed its economy and sparked end of restrictions that have kept the avoid” the virus now circulating in “causing growing concern in
nationwide protests. country largely closed off to the the eastern megacity. Japan”, Prime Minister Fumio
Mio Sugita, a right-wing politician outside world since March 2020. Kishida said.
frequently accused of divisive rhetoric, Online searches for flights
has come under fire in recent weeks abroad surged on the news, with The announcement effectively
over comments she made several years travel platform Tongcheng seeing brought the curtain down on a
ago about same-sex couples and ethnic an 850% jump in searches and a 10- zero-Covid regime of mass testing,
minorities. fold jump in enquiries about visas, strict lockdowns and long
quarantines that has roiled supply
The resignations come as Kishida chains and buffeted business
battles some of the lowest approval engagement with the world’s
ratings of his tenure, with local media second-largest economy.
describing a “domino effect” of
departures from his Cabinet. “The overwhelming view is just
relief,” said China-Britain Business
The public has become increasingly Council managing director for
disillusioned after a string of scandals China Tom Simpson.
involving ministers and revelations
about ties between lawmakers and the “It brings an end to three years of
Unification Church sect. very significant disruption.” – AFP
Last month, the internal affairsBRIEFS FRESH START
minister resigned over alleged ... A child
campaign finance irregularities while selecting toys
the justice minister stepped down after ahead of Chinese
reportedly saying his “low-profile” job New Year at a
only generated media coverage when market in the
approving death sentences. eastern Chinese
city of Qingdao.
The economic revitalisation minister – AFPPIC
resigned in October over allegations of
ties to the Unification Church. Taiwan to extend conscription to one year
Approval ratings for Kishida’s Cabinet TAIPEI: Taiwan will extend democracy and freedom all over the show the courage and Conscripts would be tasked with
have been hovering near the so-called compulsory military service to one world, and it will not become a determination to protect our guarding key infrastructure,
“danger level” of 30%, and there has year from four months from 2024 battlefield. homeland and defend democracy.” enabling regular forces to respond
been speculation he could reshuffle its due to the rising threat the island more swiftly in the event of any
members before the next parliament faces from China, President Tsai She described the decision to Conscripts will undergo more attempt by China to invade, officials
session opens in January. – AFP Ing-wen said yesterday. extend the conscription period as intense training, including shooting said at the same press conference.
“incredibly difficult”. exercises, combat instruction used
FINAL VERDICTS IN The move comes as China ramps by US forces, and operating more Taipei-based National Policy
SUU KYI TRIALS THIS WEEK up military, diplomatic and The current military system, powerful weapons including Foundation researcher Chieh
economic pressure on Taiwan to including training reservists, is Stinger anti-aircraft missiles and Chung estimated that the extension
YANGON: A court in military-ruled assert its sovereignty claims, inefficient and insufficient to cope anti-tank missiles, she said. could add an extra 60,000 to 70,000
Myanmar will deliver its final verdicts including almost daily Chinese air with China’s rising military threat, manpower annually to the current
in cases against deposed leader Aung force missions near the island over especially if it launched a rapid Tsai’s security team, including 165,000-strong professional force by
San Suu Kyi on Friday, said a source the past three years. attack on the island, Tsai said. high-level officials from the 2027 and beyond.
familiar with her trials, wrapping up Defence Ministry and the National
marathon proceedings that have Tsai said Taiwan wanted peace “Taiwan wants to tell the world Security Council, have been Tsai is championing the idea of
been condemned in the West as a but needed to be able to defend itself. that between democracy and reviewing Taiwan’s military system “asymmetric warfare” to make the
sham. The court is scheduled to dictatorship, we firmly believe in since 2020, an official briefed on the island’s forces more mobile, agile
rule in five corruption cases against “As long as Taiwan is strong democracy. Between war and matter told Reuters. and harder to attack. – Reuters
her, each carrying up to 15 years in enough, it will be the home of peace, we insist on peace. Let us
prison, the source said yesterday,
declining to be identified because of South Korea military apologises for not downing drones
the junta’s efforts to suppress
information about the trials. Suu Kyi’s SEOUL: South Korea’s military drones, one of which flew close to an operation to hunt them down At a Cabinet meeting yesterday,
court proceedings have taken place apologised yesterday for failing to the capital. that lasted five hours. President Yoon Suk-yeol said the
behind closed doors, with only shoot down five North Korean incident showed that the military’s
limited information reported by state drones that crossed their shared “Five enemy drones invaded JCS acknowledged that, while the readiness was “greatly lacking”.
media and a gag order imposed on border after facing wide criticism South Korean airspace, and our military can counter “attack drones
her lawyers. – Reuters over its lack of readiness. military detected and tracked them, that pose a real threat”, there is a limit The South Korean leader
but we apologise for not being able to their ability to detect and strike ordered an acceleration of a plan to
KEY PARTY MEETING Monday’s incursion prompted to shoot them down,” the Joint Chiefs smaller spy drones. launch a drone unit to carry out
BEGINS IN PYONGYANG the military to fire warning shots of Staff (JCS) said in a statement. surveillance and reconnaissance
and deploy fighter jets and attack “As a result, the military’s lack of operations on the North’s key
PYONGYANG: North Korea’s ruling helicopters to shoot down the All of the drones appeared to readiness has caused a lot of military facilities. – AFP
party has kicked off a major annual have returned to the North despite concern to the public.”
meeting with economic policy on the
agenda, state media reported
yesterday. Instead of a New Year’s Day
speech, leader Kim Jong Un in recent
years has used the year-end plenary
meeting of the Workers’ Party of
Korea as a platform to outline policies
in key areas such as diplomacy,
security and the economy. North
Korea’s power has “remarkably
increased in all fields of politics,
military, economy and culture”, KCNA
news agency quoted Kim as saying in
his report to the meeting. The
meeting agenda includes a review of
policy implementation in 2022 and
next year’s budget, it added, without
providing details. – AFP
7theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS
Bangladesh ‘doing everything possible’ to stop Rohingyas risking their lives
DHAKA: Bangladesh is trying to stop deadliest years at sea in almost a alert. They are arresting those who five-fold increase from the previous they want to go home but only if they
Rohingya refugees risking their lives decade for the Rohingyas as a growing are involved in human trafficking.” year. are guaranteed citizenship.
in boats to Southeast Asia, a number flee desperate conditions in
government official said, amid fears refugee camps in Bangladesh, despite Nearly one million Rohingyas are It is not clear what is driving the “Life in the camp is not easy,
that this year could be one of the attempts to stop them. living in Bangladesh, most in refugee exodus but some activists believe the people are desperate,” said
most deadly in years for the camps including many who fled from lifting of Covid restrictions around Mohammed Imran, a former camp
persecuted Muslims from Myanmar “We’re doing everything possible their homes in Myanmar in 2017 to Southeast Asia, a favoured destination leader who managed to travel to
seeking new lives. to stop them from taking the escape a military crackdown. for Rohingyas, could be a factor. Malaysia but returned to Bangladesh
dangerous voyages,” Bangladesh to be with his two sisters.
A boat washed ashore in Refugee Relief and Repatriation But with prospects in the camps Mohammad Mizanur said not all
Indonesia’s Aceh province on Commissioner Mohammad Mizanur bleak and little hope of going home, Rohingyas who set out to sea do so Dil Mohammed, a Rohingya
Monday carrying 174 Rohingyas, Rahman told Reuters on Monday. many are driven to seek new lives from Bangladesh. leader in Bangladesh, said many
most of them dehydrated, exhausted further afield. people were ready to risk their lives in
and in urgent need of medical care “We’re going door to door and “Their situation is far worse in traffickers’ boats.
after weeks at sea, disaster agency holding talks with community Some 2,400 Rohingyas have Myanmar.”
officials said. leaders in the camps to explain the made or tried to make the sea journey “People are getting frustrated with
dangers. to countries such as Indonesia Most Rohingyas in Myanmar are the refugee life and there’s no hope of
UN refugee agency UNHCR said and Malaysia this year, UNHCR regarded as illegal immigrants from going home.
on Monday 2022 could be one of the “Our law enforcement agencies, estimated. South Asia and are denied
the navy and the coast guard are on citizenship. “Many of them end up dying but
Rights groups said this was a no one cares.”– Reuters
Rohingyas in Bangladesh said
‘Blizzard of the century’ Nearly 100 Starlinks
active in Iran: Musk
kills 49 across US WASHINGTON: Nearly 100 Starlink internet
terminals are currently operating in Iran,
o Emergency personnel banks, and emergency personnel going “car Erie County executive Mark Poloncarz SpaceX chief Elon Musk said on Monday.
go ‘car to car’ in desperate to car” searching for survivors. tweeted on Monday that the blizzard-related
search for survivors death toll had climbed to 27 across the The tycoon had promised to bring the
The perfect storm of fierce snow squalls, county, including 14 people who were found satellite internet network to the country in
WASHINGTON: Emergency crews in New howling wind and sub-zero temperatures outside and three who were discovered September as Iranian authorities imposed
York were scrambling on Monday to rescue forced the cancelation of more than 15,000 US in a car. increasingly severe access restrictions, in a move
marooned residents from what authorities flights in recent days, including nearly 4,000 activists called a campaign to limit information
called the “blizzard of the century”, a relentless on Monday, according to tracking site With more snow forecast and most of about protests that had broken out nationwide.
storm that has left 49 dead across nine US Flightaware.com. Buffalo “impassable”, he joined Hochul in
states and caused Christmas travel chaos. warning residents to bunker down and stay in “Approaching 100 Starlinks active in Iran,”
Buffalo – a city in Erie County that is no place. Musk tweeted on Monday.
Blizzard conditions persist in parts of the stranger to foul winter weather – is the
northeastern US, the stubborn remnants of a epicentre of the crisis, buried under National Guard members and other teams Starlink has more than 2,000 tiny satellites
massive sprawl of extreme weather that staggering amounts of snow. have rescued hundreds of people from orbiting just a few hundred kilometres above
gripped the country over several days, causing snow-covered cars and homes without Earth, providing internet access to users below.
widespread power outages and travel delays. “Certainly, it is the blizzard of the century,” electricity, but authorities have said more
New York Governor Kathy Hochul told people remain trapped. The land-based terminals are then wired up
In New York state, authorities have reporters, adding it was “way too early to say to basic routers that create small wifi spots.
described ferocious conditions, particularly this is at its completion”. Erie County Sheriff John Garcia called the
in Buffalo, with hours-long whiteouts, bodies storm “the worst” he has ever seen, with Earlier this year, controversial billionaire
being discovered in vehicles and under snow Hochul said some western New York periods of zero visibility and authorities Musk gained hero status in Ukraine after
towns got walloped with 0.75m to 1m of snow. unable to respond to emergency calls. sending thousands of Starlink terminals to the
country in the days after Russia’s invasion.
She later spoke with President Joe Biden, “It was gut-wrenching when you’re getting
who offered “the full force of the federal calls where families are with their kids and Ukraine now has 20,000 of the small white
government” to support New York state. they’re saying they’re freezing,” he told CNN. receivers throughout the country.
– AFP
He also approved an emergency Twitter head Musk’s Monday message was
declaration for the state, the White House said. posted in response to a user whose video they
said was taken in the “streets of Iran”, where
there is now “more freedom for the women to
choose whether they cover their hair or not”.
The post appeared to reference protests that
swept Iran after the September death of Iranian-
Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini following her
arrest in Tehran for an alleged breach of the
country’s strict dress code for women.
The authorities had already restricted access
to Instagram and WhatsApp – until this autumn
the last remaining unfiltered social media
services – and then clamped down on apps like
Google Play Store as well as Virtual Private
Networks (VPN) that seek to circumvent local
access restrictions.
Iranians have long used VPN to access sites
blocked in Iran. – AFP
BRIEFS MOSCOW ACCUSES UKRAINE
OF DEADLY AIR BASE ATTACK
Vehicles are seen
trapped under deep MOSCOW: Russia said on Monday it had
snow in the streets of foiled a new Ukrainian drone attack on a
downtown Buffalo. strategic bomber military base hundreds of
– AFPPIC/ OFFICE OF kilometres from their joint border. Russia said
NEW YORK GOVERNOR it had downed the drone at Engels, a base for
KATHY HOCHUL its strategic aircraft that Kyiv said have been
used to strike Ukraine. Three servicemen
New Delhi fog disrupts air and rail travel were killed by falling debris. The same day,
Russia’s domestic security agency said it
NEW DELHI: Low temperatures and fog in Local media reported that 15 trains to to reduce thereafter,” the department said. killed four Ukrainian “saboteurs” who
the Indian capital hit air and rail movement New Delhi were also running late because IMD also forecast cold wave conditions in allegedly attempted to enter Russia via a
yesterday morning as a cold wave gripped of fog. border region. In a statement on Monday,
the city with minimum temperatures some areas over the northwest states of Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry urged the
dipping as low as 5.6°C. The India Meteorological Department Punjab, Haryana and Delhi during the next expulsion of Russia from the UN. – AFP
(IMD) said in a bulletin that “dense and very two days.
With visibility of just 50m in some areas, dense fog” was likely to continue over some THREE PERU POLICE GENERALS
Delhi Airport took to Twitter to alert parts of the city over the next 24 hours due to A cold wave is declared in the plains of HELD OVER ALLEGED GRAFT
passengers that flights not equipped to light wind and high moisture levels. India when the minimum temperature dips
operate in such conditions “may get affected”. to 4°C or falls 4.5°C below normal to 10°C or LIMA: Authorities in Peru arrested three
“Its intensity and spread is likely below. – Reuters police generals and three other people on
Monday for alleged involvement in the
corruption case against ousted president
Pedro Castillo, the Interior Ministry said. A
“mega-operation” netted the six, who are
suspected of involvement of “irregular
promotions” in the police force, said a
ministry statement. Three of the six are active
police generals suspected of having
approved promotions, with Castillo’s alleged
blessing, in exchange for money. The
operation involved searches in several cities,
including two Lima homes of former defence
minister Walter Ayala, said the ministry. Ayala
and Castillo have denied the charges. – AFP
8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022 LETTERS
SPEAK UP
[email protected]
Unity government has to
show that it means business Setting up
THE end of the year has seen Ombudsman a
speeches and promises of action NOTHER TA long complained that the large increase in Given prominence in his speech is the progressive move
providing a mixed and unclear KE the number of ministers is not disclosure that the public is partly responsible for
picture of the reform policies unjustified and simply reflected the the continued rise in food prices and rising THE government should expedite
B inclination to reward leaders of parties inflation. the tabling of the Ombudsman
and measures likely to be pursued by A in the Barisan Nasional coalition. Malaysia bill which could help to
the unity government during its stint as The Federal Territories Hence, his advice to the lower income group is enhance integrity and governance in
the ruling government. E reassignment, with the reduction in to change their consumption behaviour and avoid addressing public complaints.
On the plus side, Pakatan Harapan Y the size of his cabinet to a total of 28 buying unreasonably priced goods to curb
(PH) chief and Prime Minister Datuk Seri LIM TECK GHE ministers and 27 deputy ministers, gives inflation. In 2018, the then government
Anwar Ibrahim has reiterated that his main hope that the new prime minister and his gave the go-ahead for the setting up
responsibility as prime minister is taking care of colleagues may be prepared to tackle perhaps the Rafizi and his policy team are clearly not in the of the Ombudsman Malaysia to
the people’s welfare, not constructing grand mega biggest elephant in the treasury room – the B40 group. replace the Public Complaints
buildings. nation’s civil service. Bureau.
Hence, his first order of business is to help the They also appear to be ignorant of how the
urban poor, as well as hawkers and small traders. Can the civil service be reformed? prices of the cheapest items in the Malaysian Setting up the Ombudsman
Well and good. Currently, the emoluments of the 1.6 million civil basket of goods and services such as foodstuff and Malaysia is a progressive move.
This much-neglected constituency, although servants together with the pensions and gratuities staples, manufactured goods, clothing,
sceptical from past experience with politicians, bill come up to nearly half of the federal transportation, healthcare, etc, have increased The time has come for the
awaits with bated breath the follow-up actions to government’s annual revenue. It is also the total of during the last few years, many quite dramatically. establishment of a Malaysian
the promise. all personal and company tax collected. Ombudsman as it could serve to hear
We have also seen two measures to indicate that Rightsizing the massive civil service and If stakeholders have been scrupulously and investigate cases of
the new government is not planning to drag its feet cutting back on operating expenditures have been monitoring prices or buying rice, milk, flour, maladministration.
on the numerous reform issues that the PH and advocated by the World Bank and every reputable cooking oil, eggs, meat, fish, vegetables, fruits and
East Malaysia parties have repeatedly drawn financial service consultancy organisation that other daily necessities, they would not only be I hope that this could be part of
attention to when in the political wilderness. has done business in Malaysia. confronted by the phenomenon of recent rising efforts to reduce bureaucratic red
Implementing a downsizing programme may prices. tape and improve administrative
Baby steps in Reformasi be seen as too hard a political mountain to climb efficiency in all government
The dismissal of all chairmen and board members for some leaders. They will also be mystified by the official departments and agencies.
of government-linked companies, statutory bodies However, the new government should not be Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which
and state-investment funds appointed politically held hostage by 1.6 million civil service workers, consumers and analysts have found to be In this connection, the setting up
with immediate effect is a positive but really very whose size is outnumbered by the 13.4 million misleading in its underestimation of the pricing of of the Ombudsman system would be
small step in curbing the patronage, corruption, worker voters in the private sector. goods purchased. a step in the right direction to
mismanagement and issues of conflict of interest The latter have had their financial security address all public grievances against
known to be widely prevalent in undermining the needs made secondary far too long to the interests During the past year, the country’s CPI increased all departments and agencies.
economy. of their public sector counterparts. from 124 points in November 2021, to 129 points in
Replacement appointees should be vetted not It is not only the size and cost of the civil service November 2022, – a difficult-to-believe small figure. Ombudsman is derived from the
only on their integrity and performance record, that matters. Swedish word meaning “grievance
they should also be subject to greater oversight Just as or more important, is the quality of The last four year’s CPI trend data from 2018 to person” or “representative or agent of
than their compatriots in the private sector. performance as the country’s public sector has 2022 – 121 points to 129 – is even less believable. the people”.
How can the government reform the existing generally received poor marks for its efficiency,
GLCs (government-linked companies) to ensure accountability, transparency and impartiality, and Even the economy minister is probably finding It is also referred to in the Oxford
that they become a major contributor to the the absence of meritocracy in its recruitment and the official inflation figure of 3.3% difficult to Dictionary as the “people’s defender”
national economy rather than being an economic senior management. defend, hence his concern. and he is appointed to safeguard the
deadweight and fiscal drag that needs immediate These concerns can be addressed and citizens against abuse or misuse of
cabinet review and action? corrected with less collateral political damage However, putting the blame for the soaring administrative power by the
GLC governance, economic costs, financial than cutting back on staff numbers. inflation on consumers, small traders, kedai executive.
viability and sustainability, and a host of other Together, the progressive and forward- makanan and other voiceless or less influential
issues have largely been hidden from policy looking parliamentarians of the unity groups – although making for good headlines and The Ombudsman is the citizen’s
attention and public scrutiny. government with its two-thirds majority and copy – is really scoring an own goal in dealing with friend and protector entrusted to
The divestment by the government of non- nationwide legitimacy can take the lead on this this concern. enquire personally into alleged
performing GLCs and those that provide little game-changing subject by introducing a wrongs inflicted on the man in the
value added but have instead crowded out private resolution in the current or next parliamentary Although the critical sources of inflation need street by a range of public
sector players can be a follow-up action after the sitting on the establishment of a Royal to be independently and rigorously identified, the authorities.
removal of political appointees. Commission of Inquiry with the aim to ensure a government can take immediate action to ensure
Another positive development is the world-class civil service by promoting its that the cost of the main food items for lower and In the early 70s, Malaysia had
announcement that the Federal Territories efficiency, integrity, responsiveness and morale. middle-class Malaysians does not soar even wanted to consider such a system
Ministry is being downgraded to departmental higher. Some key initiatives have been contained and had in fact studied the New
status. Taking on inflation in PH’s election manifesto, that is: Zealand Ombudsman model, with a
Critics of the bloat in the cabinet size – in 1969 Last but not least, among developments on the 0 Elimination of cartels in the sectors of food and view towards its implementation.
Malaysia had 19 ministers and five assistant economic front is the call by Economy Minister essential supplies;
ministers, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob’s cabinet Rafizi Ramli for a “collective” effort to rein in 0 Incentives to increase food and essential goods However, it was shelved and in its
had 32 ministers and 38 deputy ministers – have soaring inflation. production; place the Public Complaints Bureau
0 Working closely with suppliers to ensure was set up.
adequate food supply; and,
0 Tax cuts for investment in the farming sector Almost all developed countries
and food production have an Ombudsman and it’s a timely
move to address public grievances
Now the government has to show that it means against any public authority in line
business if it is to live up to its campaign promises. with the new government’s
emphasis on improving service
Lim Teck Ghee’s Another Take is aimed at delivery and fighting corruption in
demystifying social orthodoxy. Comments: the interest of the public.
[email protected] Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye
Kuala Lumpur
9theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
SPEAK UP
Christmas and the three great powers
DID you have such a joyously
good time on Christmas spinoff doctrines such as the Nicene “But politics intruded to commandeer the metaphor shares a meal at his accession.
Day that you wished there Creed are specific to a civilisation, its to establish a ruler’s divine appointment to govern. For Jesus to be acknowledged as
could be a rerun before geography, politics and customs of
Chinese New Year? This is no flight of the people. the “Son of God”, he also had to be a
fancy, but yes. Past attempts to foist supremacist king.
but contextual doctrines upon non-
Jet it to Montenegro, Belarus, believers have led to cultural Hence, when Jesus entered
Eritrea, Moldova, Lebanon, or genocide, such as the forced Jerusalem during the Passover Feast
Ukraine and it is Christmas Day again assimilation policy aimed at their religions. Ching, 42:1). a vast crowd waving palm branches
on Jan 7. converting indigenous tribal people The world’s four biggest religions The concept is: singularity (taichi broke into cheers and greeted him
in the American continent. with the words: “Hosanna! Blessed is
The double Christmas is traceable News reports have disclosed that are guilty of this infraction – some to or primal force) creates duality (yin he who comes in God’s name! Yes!
to the year 1582, when Europe tens of thousands of native children a far greater degree and others to a and yang or feminine and The King of Israel!” (John 12:13).
switched from using the Julian to the may have died in much lesser degree. masculine) and duality gives rise to
Gregorian calendar. government-run boarding plurality. All three coexist to produce In Hinduism, the trinity takes the
schools over the When you assemble all the the web of existence. form of Brahma the creator, Vishnu
The Julian calendar is 13 decades. contextual verses and doctrines of the preserver and Shiva the
days behind the Gregorian, The founder of one many religions, do you see The lesson for inter-religious transformer.
and Jan 7 is 13 days after such school, Richard irreconcilable differences that must acceptance is that in our quest for a
Dec 25. Henry Pratt, be fought over? singular truth, we must accept that The takeaway here is that
infamously said in 1892, there are natural opposites and these existence is a continuous process of
On both Christmas “Kill the Indian in him, If you do, it means you have a opposites give birth to a plurality of creating forms, preserving them and
days, the pious will recite and save the man”. warlike mind and are trapped in an concepts. seeing them change. Without
these verses from the Bible: However, not only one ideological bubble. change, there is no existence and no
“Joseph, son of David, do religion went overboard in Another scripture is the I Ching life.
not be afraid to take to you missionary work. If you are truly spiritual, you will which uses a trigram (three stacked
Mary your wife, for that which is The Indian subcontinent be able to synergise these differences horizontal lines) to denote the trinity The most well-known Buddhist
conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit” centuries ago was turned into a so that there is collaboration in of heaven, earth and humanity. trinity is the Triple Gem comprising
(Matthew 1:20). battlefield of religions and remains so religious diversity instead of conflict. the Buddha, the Dharma and the
to this day. This is not intended to imply the Sangha.
The angel said to Mary: “The Holy Incited by clashes between Six countries as mentioned in the supremacy of humans over non-
Spirit will come upon you, and the hardliners in Delhi, Hindus and opening paragraph found a way to human lives but is meant to convey Buddha is the historical founder
power of the Highest will Muslims of South Asian descent harmonise two conflicting dates for the ideal of living in conformity with or the buddha-nature, Dharma is the
overshadow you; therefore, also, that fought in the streets of Leicester in Christmas by celebrating on both the laws of divinity and nature. sacred canon or the natural law and
Holy One who is to be born will be Britain three months ago. days. Sangha is the order of monks as well
called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). Six out of eight nations in South Many ancient civilisations extol a as the community of all right-living
Asia, the world’s most populous Can the Trinity serve as a platform triune unity of father, God-mother people.
These verses, composed 40 to 70 region, are ruined by religious enabling Christians to build nature-filial humanity. They have
years after Jesus’ death, speak of extremism sparking violence. collaboration with other religions? devised the metaphor of a divine The Triple Gem teaches that
three entities – the Holy Spirit, the Malaysians have to ask whether Let us examine the formulation. child (humanity) fathered by God interfaith collaboration is possible if
Son of God, and the Highest. they too are laying the tripwires for and born to a virgin (nature). we operate our minds like a camera,
religious warfare while piously As the Anglican Church’s Rev Dr zooming in to the microcosmic level
By CE325, Christian leaders had talking about peace. Daniel Thomas explains the Trinity But politics intruded to of believers and zooming out to
formulated a Trinity doctrine of three Almost everywhere it is thumbs does not mean three gods or three commandeer the metaphor to embrace humanity in toto.
Persons in God expressed in the up for conversion and thumbs down roles played by one person. establish a ruler’s divine
Nicene Creed as “the Father,” “the for collaboration. appointment to govern. When people give up the craving
only Son of God” and “the Holy Extremism springs from the The “three personal subsistences to establish worldwide supremacy
Spirit”. notion that your religion is supreme are coequal and coeternal centres of Alexander the Great secured the for their particular religions, or to put
in the world and therefore it becomes self-awareness”. title “Son of God” to rule Egypt, and their country’s nationalism on a
As pointed out in this column two your duty to convert others from Augustus Caesar was recognised as divisive ethnoreligious basis, then
weeks ago, there are broadly two Note the idea of three coequal the “Son of God” and, hence, only have nations begun the long
types of scriptural verses: universal entities-in-oneness. legitimately the emperor of Rome. walk towards fulfilling the Christmas
and contextual. herald for peace on earth to all
The coequality of three powers In China, the emperor ruled as the humanity.
Universal verses bear content that – this is the base for collaboration. “Son of Heaven” while in Japan the
is identical to verses in the scriptures emperor to this day claims descent The writer champions interfaith
of all other religions. The power of three is brought out from the sun goddess Amaterasu harmony. Comments:
in the scripture of Taoism where it Omikami with whom the emperor
Contextual verses and their says: “One gives birth to two, two [email protected]
gives birth to three, and three gives
birth to ten thousand things” (Tao Te
COMMENT by Harunur Rasid
Why do Bangladesh, Myanmar pursue rice diplomacy?
DESPITE Myanmar-Bangladesh Bangladesh is one of the best sectors South Asian country, said an official Arakan State Rice Millers would deepen their relations.
tensions, the use of rice as a but the country continues to import from the MRF. Association. It can be a great effort between
diplomatic tool has received global rice.
media coverage. “We are waiting for the ship’s “We will sell 2,500 tonnes of rice both sides for a good relationship
Due to the current state of the arrival to export rice to Bangladesh. to the MRF for the sake of local with the Bangladeshi and Myanmar
There is nothing new to say about world facing a global food crisis due We will start exporting rice to farmers, who have to spend more on governments.
the influence of food on politics. to the conflict between Ukraine and Bangladesh this month. agricultural inputs due to price
Russia, many countries have closed hikes. It will also develop good bilateral
In the olden days, many kings their doors to exports to maintain “According to the contract ties between the Bangladeshi and
used food as a diplomatic tool to their domestic stocks. between the two countries, we have “When this kind of rice was Myanmarese people.
entertain their guests. The tradition to export 200,000 tonnes of rice to allowed to be exported, the farmers
continues in the modern political Rice is an essential product in the Bangladesh this month. But there is got a good price. We sell to the MRF In a short time, new generations
world. life of the people of Bangladesh. always an understanding between at US$400 (RM1,768) per tonne,” he of both sides want better relations in
the buyer and the seller. If there is a explained. the economy, tourism, etc.
Many leaders of political parties Dhaka, which imports about a delay due to various reasons, we will
and presidents have and continue to million tonnes of rice every year, has negotiate and ship it,” the MRF “Purchasing rice from Arakan There may be some problems
use food diplomacy to strengthen ordered imports from Myanmar official explained. State can improve the rice market for between Bangladesh and Myanmar.
ties between allies or diffuse tensions despite tensions between Myanmar farmers, but there is also concern
with opponents. and Bangladesh. The rice to be exported from that the domestic rice market price However, these problems (the
Myanmar to Bangladesh is planned will increase and become Rohingya refugee and border
Rice appears to have emerged as a Since agriculture and livestock to be transported from Yangon’s Sule insufficient,” said a local veteran problems) should be properly
favourite diplomatic tool to build are the backbones of Myanmar’s Port, Pathein Port in Ayeyarwaddy businessman. addressed by both parties.
stronger ties with neighbours economy, it earns foreign exchange Region and Arakan State’s Sittwe
Myanmar and Bangladesh, an from rice exports beyond self- Port. “It would be good if the export of Bangladesh is going to become a
English report said. sufficiency. rice abroad does not affect the South Asian economic miracle.
The governments of Myanmar supply of rice in the domestic
It is said the product is a staple The state is helping stockholders, and Bangladesh signed a sales market. If rice exports increase, Bangladesh is lauded by the
food for most people in countries including farmers and investors, to contract on rice export in September, domestic self-sufficiency may be international community at every
such as Indonesia and Thailand, and bring business opportunities. agreeing to export 200,000 tonnes of affected,” he added. international forum.
neighbouring countries such as rice to Bangladesh in December.
China and India. According to a memorandum of There are more than 1.2 million The ping-pong diplomacy led by
understanding between Myanmar According to the Arakan State acres of farmland in Arakan State, China and the US was set up to
The agriculture sector is one of and Bangladesh on the rice trade, Rice Millers Association, 200,000 but only 850,000 acres could be strengthen their relations.
the most important and strategic 200,000 tonnes of white rice will be tonnes of rice are being purchased brought under paddy cultivation due
sectors for the survival of a country. exported from Myanmar to from regions and states under a to various factors, according to data We can also expect the
Bangladesh. quota system organised by the MRF. from the Arakan Farmers’ Union. application of another ping-pong
Without food, the country may diplomacy such as rice diplomacy.
experience chaos and bankruptcy. A total of 2,650 tonnes of rice will The Arakan State Rice Millers Myanmar exported more than
be sent directly to Bangladesh for the Association has decided to sell 2,500 one million tonnes of rice and Although rice diplomacy is a little
The government of Bangladesh first time. tonnes of rice to the MRF. broken rice during the first seven initiative its significance is vast.
relies on several measures to months of the fiscal year 2022-2023,
maintain the availability of rice. The Myanmar will start exporting Four rice mills in Kyauktaw, one and earned more than US$400 This little initiative will turn into a
most popular way is to import rice. 160,000 tonnes of rice to Bangladesh in Ponnagyun and two in Sittwe, will million, according to the MRF. great achievement for both sides.
this month, according to the supply export-quality rice to the MRF
This import policy causes a lot of Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF). for export to Bangladesh and rice Myanmar and Bangladesh started High-level official visits may be a
damage because Bangladesh is exports will start in January, said U to practise their rice diplomacy. step to strengthen the ties. The two
known as an agricultural country or a Under the agreement with Nyi Nyi Than, vice-chairman of the prime ministers can exchange visits
country that has mostly rice. Bangladesh, the MRF has agreed to Myanmar’s supply to Bangladesh to normalise relations. It is a piece of
export 200,000 tonnes of rice to the good news for Myanmar and
The agriculture sector in Bangladesh.
Comments: [email protected]
10 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
MEDIA & MARKETING
HEINEKEN Cares improves food security
oHEINEKEN
Malaysia partners with
seven NGOs and
community partners in
an effort to help create
a sustainable food
supply
HEINEKEN Malaysia
Berhad (HEINEKEN
Malaysia) today launched
its HEINEKEN Cares 2022
programme at the Sungei Way
Brewery. Transitioning from short-
term food aid, the brewer is
collaborating with seven non-
government organisations (NGOs)
and community partners to support
communities in building capacity for
long-term food security. As part of
their commitment, HEINEKEN
Malaysia pledged to deliver over
600,000 meals to empower local communities. As a result, the shared, “As part of our social the communities in Kampung Orang opportunities. Through the
communities across Malaysia to start programme delivered a cumulative sustainability commitment, we aim Asli Gurney and Kampung Orang Asli collaboration, NGOs and community
and maintain their own sustainable total of 250,000 meals in 2021. to make a positive impact on Sg Kelubi in Hulu Selangor. partners are providing HEINEKEN
food sources. In tandem with this Malaysian communities. With PWD Smart Farmability builds Malaysia employees with a first-hand
commitment, the brewer also Taking it a step further, HEINEKEN Cares, every step counts, aquaponic satellite farms which help experience on the ground, further
provided a platform for its partners to HEINEKEN Cares 2022 announced a and every meal matters. This year, we provide fresh, organic and nutritious inspiring employees to give back to
showcase their community work at a renewed vision to transform lives by want to move beyond providing meat and vegetables for welfare those in need.
mini exhibition. improving social sustainability short-term relief to communities in centres across seven regions in
At the launch event, Roland Bala, through food security. need and take it a step further by Peninsular Malaysia, All employees were also
Managing Director of HEINEKEN empowering local communities to Soroptimist International Region encouraged to step up and volunteer
Malaysia said, “At the height of the Once again linking employee start and maintain a sustainable food of Malaysia provides alternative with the seven NGO partners,
pandemic, we saw how vulnerable wellness with a community purpose, supply.” water systems and organic farms in committing to support the various
communities were in need of food the programme increased their 2022 Long Tanyit, Belaga, Sarawak and Kg food security projects across
aid. Responding to the call for help, goal, calling on its employees to step “By joining forces with Gana, Kota Marudu, Sabah, whilst Malaysia.
we launched HEINEKEN Cares in up and achieve 200 million steps HEINEKEN Cares, our NGOs and building capacity to empower
2021, a social impact programme to cumulatively from November 2022 to community partners will be working women in finding alternative sources Further information on
connect our employee’s well-being at March 2023. This year, HEINEKEN on projects such as setting up small- of income. HEINEKEN Malaysia’s sustainability
work with a purpose to support local Cares increases its contributions by scale community farms and satellite Hopes Malaysia improves the and initiatives can be found at
communities, giving them the committing to providing three meals aquaponic systems, establishing and existing gravity water system for HEINEKEN Malaysia’s official
opportunity to participate in for every 1,000 steps made by an leveraging on existing alternative homes and farms in Kg. Pinolobuh, website www.heinekenmalaysia.com
meaningful CSR initiatives. Together, employee, with a goal to deliver more water systems to support these Kota Belud, Sabah, empowering or SPARK Foundation’s official
our One Strong Winning Team, than 600,000 meals for vulnerable community farms, as well as families to sustainably farm for website: sparkfoundation.com.my.
alongside our NGO and community communities across Malaysia. distributing food provisions to those lasting food security
partners, helped create a positive in need,“ Renuka added. Hope Place Kuching channels To help the vulnerable and those
impact in our local communities.” The NGOs and community basic food aid and necessities to the in need, feel free to contact the
HEINEKEN Cares saw great partners collaborating with At the mini exhibition, seven underprivileged in Sarawak to HEINEKEN Cares partners listed
success in 2021. For every 1,000 steps HEINEKEN Cares 2022 include The NGOs and community partners improve their health and livelihood. below:
taken by a HEINEKEN Malaysia Lost Food Project, Epic, and PWD showcased their work alongside Kupikupifm maintains alternative 0 The Lost Food Project:
employee, the brewer committed one Smart Farmability, whose projects HEINEKEN Malaysia in building water systems for rural villages in www.thelostfoodproject.org
meal to a person in need. The are focused in supporting sustainable food sources throughout Sabah and continues working to 0 Epic: epic.my
programme delivered 150,000 meals communities in Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysia. Highlights of their connects systems to encourage the 0 PWD Smart Farmability:
to vulnerable communities across the as well as Soroptimist International community work are as follows. adoption of community farming. www.pwdsmartfarmability.com
nation in six months. This was further Region of Malaysia, Hopes Malaysia, For the first time, apart from 0 Soroptimist International Region
scaled up during the December 2021 Hope Place Kuching, and The Lost Food Project contributing their steps, employees of Malaysia:
floods, when HEINEKEN Cares Kupikupifm, whose projects are redistributes rescued surplus goods in HEINEKEN Malaysia also have the www.facebook.com/siromsiam
topped up an additional 100,000 supporting communities in Sabah and other essential items to those in chance to play a role in community 0 Hopes Malaysia:
meals and care packages for affected and Sarawak. need in the Klang Valley and Johor work through volunteer www.hopesmalaysia.com
Bahru area. 0 Hope Place Kuching:
In her opening speech, Renuka hopeplace.org.my
Indrarajah, HEINEKEN Malaysia’s Epic provides sustainable water 0 Kupikupifm: kupikupifm.my
Corporate Affairs and Legal Director supply and farming programmes to
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S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. WEDNESDAY
DECEMBER 28, 2022
197201001092 (12738-U)
Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688
A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad Fax: 03-7785 2624/5
A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad Email: [email protected]
Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888
27/12/2022 Fax: 03-7784 4424
Participation Bought Sold Net Email: [email protected]
% RM m RM m RM m
51.2 Institutions 923.9 968.5 -44.6
33.0 Retail 627.5 593.0 34.5
15.8 Foreign 297.3 287.2 10.1
100.0 1848.7 1848.7 0 0.01 8.68 CLOSED 30.01 42.00 43.30 15.65 CLOSED
KLCI STI SCI NIKKEI TSEC KOSPI
Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com 1,474.69 3,266.38 HANG SENG 3,095.57 26,447.87 14,328.43 2,332.79 S&P/ASX200
Source: Bursa Malaysia
KL MARKET SUMMARY RM1,500 minimum wage –
DECEMBER 27, 2022
INDICES 10,610.88 CHANGE +21.59 July 1 start for small firms
FBMEMAS
FBMKLCI 1,474.69 +0.01
CONSUMER PRODUCTS 584.00 +2.01
INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 180.27 +1.35
CONSTRUCTION 153.34 +1.23
FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,354.37 -269.60
ENERGY 787.95 +6.20
TELECOMMUNICATIONS 583.33 +0.65 o MEF lauds govt decision
HEALTH CARE 1,776.47 +64.37 to defer requirement for
TRANSPORTATION 850.66 -6.40 employers with fewer than
PROPERTY 644.76 -1.76 five workers
PLANTATION 6,988.43 +203.20
FBMSHA 10,844.42 +136.70
FBMACE 5,353.65 -127.00
TECHNOLOGY 64.12 +0.04
TURNOVER VALUE PETALING JAYA: Human Resources
3.055 BIL RM1.848 BIL Minister V. Sivakumar announced that
employers with fewer than five employees
5 MOST ACTIVES will only have to start paying minimum wage
DECEMBER 27, 2022 of RM1,500 a month from July 2023, instead
of the earlier scheduled start date of Jan 1,
STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) 2023. Deferment will allow micro enterprises to take some relief to focus on building their business
TOPGLOV 149,504,200 92.5 +10.5 and cash flow to keep their business alive. – AFPPIX
BORNOIL 136,596,300 2.5 UNCH The decision was made after considering
MTRONIC 135,479,500 2.0 the views of various stakeholders who are
ASB 72,071,500 17.5 -0.5 expected to face economic and financial
CYPARK 69,376,800 44.0 UNCH challenges next year.
+5.5
MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain
5 TOP GAINERS Syed Husman said “MEF thanks the human building back their financial position,” said System under the custody and management
DECEMBER 27, 2022 resources minister for taking into account Syed Hussain. of MoHR will enhance efficiency, remove
and considered the views of the stakeholders overlapping services and better manage the
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM on the challenges faced by businesses in 2023 He added, “No employer wants to lose demand for foreign workers by businesses.
KLK 361,900 21.74 +0.54 which is expected to be very challenging their experienced employee over this. It’s too With forecasted economic situation in 2023
GENP 232,500 6.40 +0.37 especially the micro enterprises employing much time and investment has been put to to be more challenging it is important that
BKAWAN 10,400 21.64 +0.26 less than five employees.” grow skills and knowledge. MEF is there are no bottlenecks in the supply of
F&N 42,600 21.40 +0.26 appreciative that the human resources foreign workers,” he added
HEIM 17,200 25.62 +0.26 He added that the number of micro minister listens to the business requirements.
enterprises is huge, estimated to be 560,000 Having more business alive will create more In April 2022, the recruitment and
5 TOP LOSERS and the deferment of RM1,500 minimum employment. At these tough times we need management of foreign workers was
DECEMBER 27, 2022 wage to July 2023 for micro enterprises will full employment to grow the business and revamped with the MoHR spearheading the
allow them to take some relief to focus on the national economy.” FWCMS one-stop centre. The revamp was
STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM building their business and cash flow to keep made in response to severe shortages of
DJIA-C6 2,300 0.64 -0.17 their business alive. On the issue of recruitment and foreign workers faced by all industries, due
HSI-HE2 690,900 0.02 -0.17 management of foreign workers, Syed to the freeze on recruitment of foreign
INFOTEC 28,868,700 0.835 -0.165 “MEF is optimistic that once they are on a Hussain said MEF appeals to the government workers and the inability to replace those
SIGN 1,623,400 2.39 -0.15 stable footing most micro enterprise under the leadership of Datuk Seri Anwar whose PLKS expired since early 2020 up to
MAYBANK 5,169,900 8.64 -0.14 employers will honour the RM1,500 Ibrahim to maintain the recruitment and early 2022.
minimum wages. Employers value their management of all foreign workers with
employees. They are their asset. This is an MoHR. MEF is of the view that the processing of
issue of sustainability and keeping their labour demands should be a matter for the
business alive and retaining all their staff and “Putting the Foreign Workers Centralized MoHR to handle.
Management System and One-channel
EXCHANGE RATES DECEMBER 27, 2022 BCorp mulls major acquisition in financial services sector
Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy KUALA LUMPUR: The board of Berjaya to pare down his shareholding in BCorp in shares of the licensed entity to be not more
Corporation Berhad (BCorp) announced that order to comply with Section 92 of the FSA. than 10% if the potential acquisition
1 US DOLLAR TT/OD TT OD its management is currently contemplating materialises.
1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 4.4840 4.3500 4.3400 and evaluating a major potential acquisition In view of this, Vincent Tan has been
1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.0400 2.9190 2.9030 involving a licensed entity which is governed carrying out several share disposals to reduce Vincent Tan has indicated to the board of
1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3290 3.2320 3.2240 by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) under the his stake in BCorp to not more than 19.6% BCorp that he intends to pare down his
1 EURO 3.3040 3.2150 3.2030 Financial Services Act 2013 (FSA). which will result in his effective interest in shareholding in BCorp to not more than
1 NEWZEALAND DOLLAR 4.7770 4.6220 4.6020 19.6% by the end of January 2023.
1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 2.8340 2.7290 2.7130 Section 92 of the FSA provides that “no
1 STERLING POUND 3.3290 3.2320 3.2240 individual shall hold more than ten percent of The board of BCorp proposes to expand
1 SWISS FRANC 5.4260 5.2510 5.2310 interest in shares of a licensed person.” and grow its financial services segment and
100 UAE DIRHAM 4.7970 4.6880 4.6730 expects the contribution from this potential
100 BANGLADESHTAKA 123.4900 117.1100 116.9100 To facilitate the potential acquisition of a acquisition to contribute significantly to the
100 CHINESE RENMINBI 4.3850 4.1130 3.9130 51% equity stake in the licensed entity by earnings and net assets of BCorp Group.
100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 64.8400 62.0900 BCorporation, Tan Sri Vincent Tan Chee
100 INDIAN RUPEE 58.0800 55.1800 N/A Yioun, the major shareholder and non- Announcements will be made as required
100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 5.5100 5.1800 54.9800 executive chairman of BCorp has undertaken in compliance with BNM and Bursa rulings in
100 JAPANESE YEN 0.0297 0.0269 4.9800 due course.
100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 3.3820 3.2750
100 PHILIPPINE PESO 2.0200 1.8900 0.0219 Foreigners turn net buyers with RM51.2m inflow
100 QATAR RIYAL 8.2400 7.7700 3.2650
100 SAUDI RIYAL 124.0700 117.7800 1.6900 KUALA LUMPUR: Foreign investors turned and RM0.8 million on Tuesday before Meanwhile, the top three sectors that
100 SOUTH AFRICA RAND 120.5200 114.4100 7.5700 net buyers last week recording RM51.2 turning to net buyers for the rest of the week. recorded net foreign outflows were
100THAI BAHT 27.2900 24.6400 117.5800 million, reversing their net selling stance for plantation at RM33.6 million, industrial
13.5300 12.0000 114.2100 the past five weeks on Bursa Malaysia. “They net bought RM55.5 million on products and services at RM32.3 million and
24.4400 Wednesday, RM22.4 million on Thursday healthcare at RM20.1 million.
11.6000 MIDF Research said the net inflows could and RM35.2 million on Friday,” said the
be attributable to foreigners indulging in research firm. Foreign investors were net buyers for 27
Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama bargain hunting after the recent sell-off, out of the 51 weeks of 2022, with a total net
possibly resulting from some switching It said the top three sectors with net inflow of RM4.59 billion, whereas local
activities and domestic politics. foreign inflows were consumer products and institutions were net sellers for 33 out of 51
services at RM63.9 million, financial services weeks, with a total net outflow of RM6.71
“Foreigners started the week by net selling at RM50.9 million and utilities at RM19.1 billion. – Bernama
RM61.1 million worth of equities on Monday million.
12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022 FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN
SUNBIZ ME
/thesundaily
Sersol, Takuni seal electric Development of
motorbike, scooter venture tech talent key
for Malaysia’s
digital ambitions
o Companies team up, set to transform two-wheeler transport Businesswire is predicted to grow by about 21% KUALA LUMPUR: A report by GlobalData
to reach US$816 million (RM3.6 billion) by Market Opportunities forecasts that
2025. As adoption of electric motorbike and expenditure on information technology in
landscape in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia scooters has been burgeoning within the e- Malaysia will reach RM103.75 billion in 2023.
hailing and e-sharing sectors, the Indonesian
government has placed generous incentives Malaysia Digital Economy Corp predicts
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia, Thailand and Malaysia has launched a Green related to climate mitigation programmes to demand for tech talent will rise at a
Indonesia will transform the two-wheeler Technologies and Application for National Low reduce greenhouse gas emissions. compound annual growth rate of 7.59% over
electric motorbike and electric scooter industry Carbon Cities 2030 Masterplan for the “Our market potential is enormous as the next three years. Cybersecurity, software-
in a big way from 2023 onwards. establishment of 200 low carbon zones across Indonesia and Thailand, which are two of Asia’s as-a-service conferencing solutions, e-
Sersol Bhd and Thai energy giant Takuni the country. This will push higher demand for four largest 2W electric motorcycle and scooter commerce, and Internet of Things are four
Group PCL have signed a joint-venture green vehicle adoption on the back of the markets anticipating exponential growth areas forecast for growth.
agreement to manufacture, assemble and nation’s flourishing B2B landscape to use 2W outside India and China,” Lim added.
distribute electric two-wheeler (2W) motorbikes electric motorbikes and scooters. McKinsey predicts a surging demand for However, there remains a large gap
and scooters across the three countries in Lim said Sersol-Takuni anticipates strong batteries to grow by 30%, and the battery value between growing technology needs and
anticipation of surging demand for greener demand for their 2W electric motorbikes and chain to grow 10 times, with global revenue existing digital skills of the local Malaysian
mobility solutions. scooters in Indonesia which according to expected to rise to US$410 billion by 2030. workforce.
The announcement follows their heads of
agreement signing in late October this year A host of private public partnerships have
indicating a commitment to invest in emerged to fill this gap, including the
technology transfer in the electric vehicle #Mydigitalmaker movement, the Digital
segment for 2W motorbikes and scooters by Skills training directory, Let’s learn Digital,
incorporating a joint-venture company, Sersol- and more. At the same time, private
Takuni. programmes such as Practicum Malaysia – a
As post-Covid-19 pandemic market leading global provider of data science and
conditions across Malaysia, Thailand and programming boot camps – are seeing a
Indonesia are buoyant, Sersol-Takuni plans to surge in interest.
sell about 100,000 electric 2W motorbikes and
scooters annually. According to Herdian Mohammad,
“We are elated to have Takuni Group as a Southeast Asia director of Practicum: “While
strong partner for this initiative, as they are Practicum is new to Malaysia, we’re already
energy kings in Thailand with expertise in seeing a large demand, both from tech
building renewable energy infrastructure, in employees who want to ensure their skill sets
addition to driving expansion of Thailand’s remain relevant in this uncertain economy,
charging network for the EV industry,” said as well as from people who want to reskill
Sersol Bhd managing director Datuk Wira Justin and become part of the digital revolution.”
Lim.
Lim said Sersol-Takuni will use its An increase in local programming and
capabilities in battery technology to build a interest from international bootcamps in
plant to manufacture lithium-ion batteries. expanding to Malaysia is critical for a
“In Malaysia, our government strongly country ranking relatively low in digital
supports the battery electric vehicles agenda skills: Malaysia ranked seven out of nine
and has the right incentives in place for APEC countries in Workday’s 2022 “Digital
producers to enjoy tax exemptions for imports, From left: Lim, Takuni Group CEO Nita Treeweeranuwat and executive director Somysos Agility Index” which revealed that 79% of
excise duty and sales for locally assembled Tiranawattananont at the signing ceremony in Bangkok recently. Sersol-Takuni plans to sell about Malaysian organisations are still lacking in
models,” said Lim. 100,000 electric 2W motorbikes and scooters annually. digital competence.
TCS Malaysia wins UN sustainability performance award Development of local tech talent is key
both for Malaysia’s 2023 economic forecast
KUALA LUMPUR: Tata Consultancy Services Recognition” category relates to UN SDG 17, permanent positions in the company. TCS and towards fulfilling the country’s digital
(TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting which calls on organisations to “strengthen the Malaysia aims to offer job placements for 500 ambitions. The blistering pace of digital
and business solutions organisation has been means of implementation and revitalise the graduates by 2024. growth will open up more job opportunities
recognised for its contribution towards global partnership for sustainable development”. and put the pressure on non-tech industries
enhancing talent development among youths in “We are greatly honoured to receive this to mirror developments in technology.
Malaysia. TCS Malaysia won the award on the back of recognition from UNGCMYB. At TCS, we
its flagship Initial Learning Programme (ILP), believe in optimising our strengths and Infomina’s Thai unit
TCS Malaysia received the “Partnership for which aims to provide training and job resources to enhance access to quality career bags RM125m
the Goals Recognition” award at the opportunities for the technology sector in the opportunities among young people. Through contract from
Sustainability Performance Awards 2022 country. Launched in 2020 in partnership with our ILP, we have collaborated with government Siam Commercial Bank
organised by UN Global Compact Network 19 leading universities, the ILP aligns to the agencies, government-linked companies and
Malaysia & Brunei (UNGCMYB) here recently. Malaysian Government’s IR4.0 ambition, which private corporations to fill the digital skills gap PETALING JAYA: Infomina Bhd’s
targets growth in its digital economy and the and create well-paying jobs in the technology subsidiary Infomina (Thailand) Co Ltd
The awards programme – based on the creation of high-quality career opportunities for sector for Malaysian youths, supported by TCS’ has received a blanket purchase
UNGC’s 10 SDG Ambition Benchmarks that its workforce. Participants in the ILP initiative global experience and knowledge. With the agreement from The Siam Commercial
highlights 10 actions businesses can take to are trained in areas such as cybersecurity, data right partnerships, each entity can contribute Bank PCL (SCB) to provide upgrade and
improve sustainability, recognises the science, blockchain, and AI machine learning, complementary capacity to drive benefits that transformation solutions to SCB’s core
continuous efforts of organisations in making as well as problem solving, creativity and are greater than the sum of our parts. This banking applications for US$28.44 million
sustainability an integral part of their business communication skills. To date, TCS Malaysia recognition from UNGCMYB could not have (RM125.14 million).
strategies, while seeking to inspire similar has trained fresh graduates across seven cohorts been achieved without the contribution of our
implementation by other organisations. In of the ILP with 160 trainees later offered closest partners, particularly Petronas, in the The contract will commence over a
particular, the “Partnership for the Goals Petronas BeDigital Bootcamp this year,” said period of three years from Jan 1, 2023, to
TCS Malaysia country head Jeeva Rajoo. Dec 31, 2025.
From left: Tunku Alizakri Raja Muhammad Alias; TCS Asean head of human resources Ellis Yap and Nadar.
Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) senior The agreement is for the provision of
vice-president of project delivery & technology technology application and infrastructure
Datuk Bacho Pilong said, “Petronas has had the operations, maintenance and support
opportunity to collaborate with TCS Malaysia in services as well as to provide solutions for
various capacities. Our ongoing partnerships to the improvement and implementation of
empower youths has been a key area where we the SCBX Group Application Programming
can synergise our strengths to offer young Interface (API) gateway.
people a brighter future, in line with Petronas’
purpose to enrich lives for a sustainable future. I It is also Infomina TH’s scope to upgrade
congratulate TCS Malaysia on this recognition and expand SCBX Group’s API gateway for
from UNGCMYB.” the transformation of the SCBX Group of
companies to become a regional financial
Meanwhile, UN Global Compact Network technology group that creates long-term
Malaysia & Brunei executive director Faroze value and sustainable growth.
Nadar said, “We are pleased to recognise the
valuable work that TCS Malaysia is doing ... I “This is in line with SCBX Group’s
commend TCS Malaysia on their achievements strategy to transform beyond the fintech
and look forward to seeing new initiatives from economy,” Infomina said in a filing with
their dynamic team.” Bursa Malaysia yesterday.
SCBX Group’s main businesses comprise
banking business, consumer finance and
digital financial services and platform, and
digital technology.
FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN 13theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
ME * SUNBIZ
/thesuntelegram
Vestland aims to NanoMalaysia rolls out EV
raise RM56.1m from charger using green energy
ACE Market listing
o TrialprojectusingtheRenewconceptincollaboration 2022-2040 of early-stage public-private
KUALA LUMPUR: Vestland Bhd, en route to a with Petronas Dagangan initiatives to support charging infrastructures
listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia to enable and accommodate EV penetration.
Securities on Jan 31, 2023, aims to raise RM56.1 KUALA LUMPUR: NanoMalaysia Bhd is for Green Economy (Emerge) initiative.
million from its initial public offering (IPO). piloting an electric-vehicle (EV) charger at Emerge focuses on developing electric vehicle NanoMalaysia’s CEO, Dr Rezal Khairi
Temasya Petronas station on the Federal technologies to support low-carbon mobility Ahmad (pic), said: “Renew is a significant
Group managing director Datuk Liew Foo Highway in the Klang Valley using the through the enhancement and milestone that we are now commercially
Heen said the construction services company Renewable Energy Nanogrid (Renew) concept deployment of energy storage deploying a charging station that rides on a
plans to use 59.7% or RM33.5 million of the powered by clean, renewable energy and management system, the locally developed renewable energy nanogrid
proceeds for working capital, in line with the technology using nano-enhanced solar Internet of Nano-Things and technology, with the view of making fast
group’s growth strategies. panels. off-grid green charging stations,
and building EV prototypes as charging, green energy easily
Additionally, 13.4% (RM7.5 million) will be NanoMalaysia is an agency for localisation of validation platforms for accessible nationwide. Through this
used to acquire a new head office, 19.2% EV technology development under the Ministry eventual industrial adoption. project, NanoMalaysia is aggressively
(RM10.8 million) for performance bonds or of Science, Technology and Innovation, This initiative supports nudging the country to be at least a
cash deposits for construction projects, and the Malaysia’s target to reduce regional leader in EV technology and
remaining RM4.3 million for listing expenses. The technology development is managed carbon intensity against gross innovation rather than just mere users
by Nano Commerce Sdn Bhd (NCSB), a domestic product by 45% by of imported products.
“With the listing expected to be completed wholly owned subsidiary and business arm of 2030 and reach carbon
next month, this milestone will positively NanoMalaysia, in partnership with a local EV neutrality as early as 2050. “Success from this pilot project will
enhance our corporate image and access to enterprise. strengthen the local EV industry and
funding. NanoMalaysia has been spearheading the expedite the government’s target to
Renew consists of a fast-charging 50kW EV nation’s EV technology agenda since 2021, achieve 10,000 EV charging stations in
“It will also significantly increase our charger, nano-enhanced solar photovolatic (PV) along with other relevant EV technology Malaysia by 2025 under the Low
business competitiveness in terms of cost of panels, and lithium-ion batteries. The solar PV is development programmes such as the Carbon Mobility Development Plan
funds and human capital, as well as the ability enhanced through nano coating supplementing NanoMalaysia Energy Storage Technology 2021-2030. This may increase the percentage
to secure more projects and increase our hydrophobic properties allowing greater Initiative, Hydrogen EcoNanoMy, Rapid of EV numbers towards 38% total industry
revenue and earnings,” he said at the launch of efficiency during inclement weather. Electric Vehicles Innovation Validation volume in the country in line with Malaysia’s
the company’s prospectus yesterday. Ecosystem, and Campuses for Local Electric Low Carbon National Aspiration 2040.
With Renew additionally powered by solar Vehicle Expeditious Rollout. The penetration rate for renewable energy
Vestland is principally involved in the provision energy with storage capabilities, the system’s in Malaysia was 2% from 92.8 million tonnes of
of construction services through its wholly owned dependency on grid power is reduced by up to This strategic collaboration between oil equivalent in 2019. Malaysia has set a target
subsidiary, Vestland Resources Sdn Bhd. 20% which effectively will assist Malaysia’s NanoMalaysia and Petronas Dagangan of 20% by 2025. Currently, there are about
decarbonisation. Berhad aligns with the National Energy Policy 30,300 plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and
Liew said the company is optimistic about battery electric vehicles on the roads, and
creating new value for existing and new This 18-month trial project is part of Malaysia is targeting 220,000 EVs by 2030
stakeholders, based on its strong tender book of NanoMalaysia’s Enabling Mobility Electrification under the National Electric Mobility Blueprint.
over RM2 billion worth of projects and an – Bernama
outstanding order book of RM947.4 million.
Vestland’s IPO comprises a public issue of
170 million new shares and an offer for the sale
of 70.8 million existing shares, totalling 240.8
million ordinary shares at an issue price of 33
sen per share, resulting in an estimated market
capitalisation of RM311.6 million. – Bernama
14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022 READ OUR HERE SCAN
SUNBIZ ME
/thesundaily
India central bank China’s industrial profits
may continue to slump on Covid fallout
sell bonds to
withdraw liquidity o Surge in domestic infections weigh on inbound travellers from Jan. 8, the fall in the first 10 months.
near-term outlook but analysts expect economy is still expected to struggle Profits fell for 21 of 41 major
MUMBAI: The Reserve Bank of India pickup next year after restrictions removed over the winter months as much of
(RBI) may continue its secondary market the population becomes infected industrial sectors, with the ferrous
bond sales to withdraw liquidity after BEIJING: Profits at China’s industrial Analysts have noted a squeeze in and unable to work while recovering. metals smelting and pressing
having sold debt worth over 100 billion firms contracted further in the profits both from anti-virus curbs in industry suffering the steepest
rupees (RM5.4 billion) over three weeks January-November period as strict big manufacturing hubs such as Industrial profits could fall decline, at 94.5%. That compares
to Dec 16, traders and analysts said. Covid 19-related curbs disrupted Guangzhou and Zhengzhou, and further in December with many with a 92.7% fall for the first 10
factory activity and supply chains, from the persistent weight of a cities facing a surge in Covid months.
The RBI has been on the path of but analysts foresaw brighter long- protracted property crisis and infections, said Hao Zhou, chief
accommodation withdrawal, unwinding term economic prospects after a U- slowing exports. economist at GTJAI. Profits for manufacturers were
pandemic-era stimulus in its aim to curb turn in Covid policy. down 13.4% in the first 11 months,
inflationary pressures. For the last few But they expect a robust recovery He added that strong improvement matching the fall in January-
months, it has been removing excessive Industrial profits fell 3.6% in could kick in next year as the is highly likely from next January, October.
banking system liquidity surplus. January-November from a year economy reopens, although for the however, as economic activity returns
earlier to 7.7 trillion yuan (RM4.9 near term there was likely to be a to normal, and called for robust and Business confidence in China
“The RBI’s decision on open market trillion), according to data released further slump as the removal of targeted policies to help revive private- has fallen to its lowest level since
operation (OMO) sales may also be by the National Bureau of Statistics restrictions brings a sharp rise in sector firms in the year ahead. January 2013, a survey showed last
tactical in the face of strong demand for (NBS) yesterday. That compares infections. week, reflecting the impact of
bonds and state debt in primary with a 3% drop for January-October. JP Morgan analysts said China’s surging Covid cases on economic
auctions this fiscal year,” said A. No standalone data was released for Last month, industrial output domestic reopening, which came activity.
Prasanna, head of research at ICICI November. rose only 2.2% from a year earlier, earlier and faster than expected,
Securities Primary Dealership. missing expectations for a 3.6% gain would mean a shorter period of At this year’s closed-door Central
Zhu Hong, a senior NBS in a Reuters poll and slowing transitional pain in the first quarter Economic Work Conference, top
Market participants said liquidity statistician, highlighted a rebound in significantly from the 5% growth of 2023, followed by an above-trend leaders and policymakers pledged
withdrawal through a rise in cash in Covid outbreaks and lacklustre seen in October. sustained recovery from the second to step up policy adjustments to
circulation remained tepid over the last demand in November that curbed quarter. support the slowing economy.
few weeks, and this could be one of the industrial production and placed Despite Beijing ditching some of
reasons for such aggressive debt sales. increasing pressure on Chinese the world’s toughest anti-virus Earlier this month, they trimmed China’s economic growth was
businesses, according to a statement restrictions in early December, and their forecast for China’s year-on- just 3% in the first three quarters of
The RBI sold bonds through screen- from the bureau. on Monday announcing it would year GDP growth rate for the current this year and is expected to stay
based secondary trading worth 31.50 end quarantine requirements for quarter, to 2.2% from 2.7%, but around that rate for the full year, one
billion rupees on a net basis in the week to raised their full-year growth forecast of its worst years in almost half a
Dec 16. This follows sales of 42.35 billion for next year, to 4.3% from 4%. century.
rupees and 28.9 billion rupees in the
preceding two weeks, RBI data showed. For January-November, profits at Industrial profit data covers large
private-sector firms shrank 7.9%, a firms with annual revenues above 20
India’s benchmark 7.26% 2032 bond slight improvement from the 8.1% million yuan from their main
yield eased two basis points during the operations. – Reuters
said period.
This is an aggressive reversal for the
central bank, which sold bonds worth
144.7 billion rupees in 10 consecutive
weeks to Sept 16, before taking a 10-
week hiatus.
India’s banking system liquidity,
though currently under deficit, may move
into surplus once government spending
picks up from the end of this month,
traders said. Keeping cash surplus in
check would be critical to containing
inflation expectations. – Reuters
BRIEFS US TO EXAMINE SOUTHWEST
AIRLINES CANCELLATIONS
Industrial profits fell 3.6% in January-November from a year earlier, government data shows. – AFPPIX
MICHIGAN: The US Transportation
Department said on Monday it would Japanese retail sales up for ninth month, aided by travel subsidy
examine the large number of
Southwest Airlines cancelled and TOKYO: Japanese retail sales rose shrank in the third quarter. A government domestic travel wages, while he brushed aside the
delayed flights in recent days to for a ninth straight month in Retail sales grew 2.6% from the subsidy campaign to help the chance of a near-term exit from
determine if they were in the airline’s November, data showed yesterday, pandemic-hit tourism industry, ultra-loose monetary policy.
control, calling them “unacceptable.” as the lifting of Covid-19 border year earlier but short of a median which started in mid-October, also
Southwest cancelled 2,886 flights on controls and the government’s forecast of 3.7%. The pace of annual encouraged people to spend on A higher inflation rate could also
Monday, or 70% of scheduled flights, domestic travel subsidy helped growth in sales, a barometer of travel and travel goods. prompt firms to shift towards wage
after cancelling 48% on Sunday. It has consumer demand. private consumption, slowed from increases. Canon Inc plans to raise
also already cancelled 60%, or more 4.4% in October and 4.8% in Separate data showed Japan’s its base salary for the first time in 20
than 2,400, of its planned Tuesday But from the previous month, September. jobless rate fell to 2.5% in years, the Nikkei business daily
flights. Southwest declined to sales fell from October, with price November, in line with a forecast in reported on its website on Monday.
comment but pointed to a statement increases in daily necessities On a seasonally adjusted basis, a Reuters poll, and down from 2.6%
it issued earlier offering “heartfelt weighing on Japanese households retail sales slipped 1.1% in in October. Japan’s economy unexpectedly
apologies” and said “extreme winter as the nation’s core consumer November from the previous shrank in the third quarter, as global
weather across our network are inflation rate hit a fresh 40-year month, down for the first time in The jobs-to-applicants ratio, a recession risk, China’s faltering
impacting our customers and high, indicating price hikes were five months. key gauge of job availability, was at economy, a weak yen and higher
employees in a significant way that is broadening. 1.35, unchanged from October and import costs hurt consumption and
unacceptable.” – Reuters Data showed last week that holding at the highest level since businesses.
A recovery in private visitor arrivals to Japan jumped to March 2020.
THAILAND KEEPS INFLATION consumption, which makes up nearly one million in November, the The government last week
TARGET OF 1-3% NEXT YEAR more than half of Japan’s economy, first full month after the country Bank of Japan Governor revised up its growth forecast for the
is key to driving growth in the scrapped Covid-19 curbs that Haruhiko Kuroda on Monday next fiscal year to 1.5%, from a 1.1 %
BANGKOK: Thailand’s cabinet yesterday economy, which unexpectedly effectively halted tourism for more voiced hope that intensifying labour expansion in the previous forecast
approved the central bank’s headline than two years. shortages would prod firms to raise from July. – Reuters
inflation target of 1% to 3% for 2023,
unchanged from this year, government
spokesman Traisuree Traisoranakul told
reporters. The central bank forecast
average headline inflation of 6.3% this
year before easing to 3% next year. –
Reuters
JAPAN’S JOBLESS RATE IN
NOVEMBER FALLS TO 2.5%
TOKYO: Japan’s jobless rate fell to 2.5%
in November, while the availability of
jobs stayed at its highest level since
March 2020, government data
showed yesterday. The seasonally
adjusted unemployment rate
matched economists’ median forecast
in a Reuters poll and was down from
2.6% in October. – Reuters
W E D N E S DAY
28 DECEMBER 2022
█ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN
YOU might finally get the
chance to look back on what
a crazy journey this year has
been as it comes to an end.
Though looking back is necessary for
moving forward, it’s critical that we
keep in mind that this year was not all
that negative. There were many
positive aspects and important
lessons that may be applied moving
forward. Here are a few things you
should not carry with you as you get
ready to leave 2022 behind. Think of
yourself as creating a new
personality. Perhaps the things you
hold to are toxic for you. Think about
putting those things behind you so
you can start 2023 with a clean slate.
Comfort zone
Though staying in your comfort
bubble is nice and safe, you can only
progress if you are willing to step
outside of it. It’s time to step outside
of your comfort zone and accept
some minor discomfort if you want to
grow and spread your circle.
Unhealthy living The start of a new year is the ultimate new beginning. – ALL PIX VIA 123RF in 2022
This era is really focused on taking
care of oneself, which is great, but I Things to leave behind
believe we sometimes lose sight of
what self-care actually entails. Don’t o Here are some
feel terrible if you simply could not things that you must
afford lavish vacations or pricey not carry with you
shopping since such things are really into the new year
not the point. Taking care of your
emotional and physical health your negative habits and the ways Surround yourself with people who have your back.
equally constitutes true self-care. If you give them power over you. You
you are coming apart within, what have the power to do or not do things;
does it matter if you appear flawlessly your life is not in the hands of outside
put together on the outside. Get forces. It won’t be simple for you to
deliberate about getting enough choose, but now is the moment to
sleep, eating well, and looking after realise how your behaviour have
your mind. persisted and take responsibility for
The need to impress others it. You must begin accepting
Listen, everyone has experienced a accountability for your decisions and
difficult year. Hopefully, this year your life.
has taught you that your and your Being busy
loved ones’ opinions are what really Being overly busy may be bad for our
count. Everyone is too preoccupied health, happiness, and thinking.
with their own issues and inner lives Becoming busy is a thing we do, say,
to devote much time to care about
yours. If they do, it speaks much more
highly of them than it does of you.
Take responsibility
It’s indeed simple to come up with
reasons for your lack of commitment
and for not pursuing your short-term
objectives. Having a default attitude
of “this can wait” ain’t going to help
you progress. It’s time to own up to
and feel to divert our attention away
from what is truly important, which
are interpersonal relationships,
spending time with loved ones, and
solving our own difficulties. I’m
hoping that you’ll still be able to
unwind and find time to maintain
and repair your mental health and
well-being in 2023.
Not asking for what you want Positivity is a powerful tool for manifesting the future of your dreams.
We are hesitant to ask for so many
Always belief that your worth is attached to how much you hustle. things in life. It might involve enormous significance. Also, the and a long list of other things. You
important decisions like asking for a response will always be no if you may come up with a list of things
raise from your job, asking your best don’t ask. you are fortunate to have when you’re
friend if she is happy with you or Ungratefulness feeling sad, and this will quickly lift
finding out whether the man you are There are a lot of things for which we your spirits.
talking to interested in you or not. It may all be grateful, like the ability to
may also be the minute details, like wake up and breathe, the fact that Wave good bye to the year and the
asking the waiter to bring you the we still have a job, the fact that we are person you were and make a warm
right order after he gave you the safe and well with our loved ones, welcome to the new beginning that
wrong one. The idea is that will soon arrive. Cheers to a
sometimes we’re hesitant to express successful new year!
our needs. This could be the result of
a variety of factors, including our
innate fear of rejection, our desire to
avoid coming across as “cranky” or
even our wish to avoid being
disrupting. The idea is that learning
to ask for what we want has
16 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
Our fsatvaorusroitfe2b0r2e2akout Jenna Ortega began
oTake a look at the stars who truly stood out this year her career as a child
actress in the comedy
series Jane the Virgin. –
INSTAGRAM/
@JENNAORTEGA
█ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Original Predator cast Austin Butler
members applauded spent nearly
THE year 2022 witnessed a lot of Amber Midthunder’s three years
major productions and new talent work in Prey. – without seeing
in the entertainment sector. As INSTAGRAM/ his family
2022 draws to a close, it’s time to @AMBERMIDTHUNDER because he was
reflect on which celebrities made the so committed to
biggest breakthroughs over the year. playing Elvis
Although the entertainment industry sees Presley.
a fresh crop of talent every year, this one – INSTAGRAM/
saw a wide spectrum of prospective talents @AUSTINBUTLER
emerge who stand out for their Tenoch Huerta’s
outstanding performances. Here are our audience of loyal
selections for the year’s biggest fans has increased
breakthroughs. thanks to the
Amber Mithunder (Prey) Mexican actor’s role
Amber Mithunder’s performance in the of Namor in Black
Hulu original film Prey won her praise Panther: Wakanda
from the critics. She has long been one of Forever. –
Hollywood’s rising stars. In what is INSTAGRAM/
essentially a prequel, with members of the @TENOCHHUERTA
Comanche tribe at the core of the action,
which takes place in the early 1700s. In
addition to being the most critically-
praised Predator film with the best
reviews, Prey is also a fantastic action film
in and of itself, and Midthunder offers a
physically expressive performance as
Naru. Midthunder’s performance stands
out as one of the year’s greatest despite
having a small portion of lines in the
drama.
Austin Butler (Elvis) Tenoch Huerta (Black Panther:
The sole original film on the list is currently Wakanda Forever)
Elvis, which has climbed into the top 10 Due to his depiction of a stern leader in
domestic box office spots for 2022. Austin Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the
Butler plays legendary rock-and-roll star Mexican actor who plays Namor, the
Elvis Presley in the movie, which is a monarch of Talokan, earned the hearts of
maximalist biography of the singer. He Marvel fans all over the world. Huerta has
perfectly captures the voice, character, and been in numerous films before, but his
even the famous movements. It should performance as Namor has truly brought
also be highlighted that he is able to him to notice. The actor shone as the
convincingly portray Elvis in all of the sequel’s antagonist because he
movie’s many eras and phases. Butler transformed the MCU mutant into a
covers Presley’s most iconic musical powerful monarch who yearned to defend
performances, from his early days through his people. He now has a higher degree of
his 1968 return spectacular, in a jaw- worldwide visibility thanks to the movie,
dropping, almost ferocious manner. which he’s using to support various causes
including social justice.
Jenna Ortega (Wednesday) Joe Locke was nominated for the Children’s Joseph Quinn
Thanks to her rising body of killer and and Family Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead absolutely stole
scare films, including Studio 666 with Dave Performance. – INSTAGRAM/ @JOELOCKE03 the show in
Grohl and Scream and American Carnage, year-old entertainer, who has become an Stranger Things
Ortega has been labelled the queen of internet celebrity, captured all of our hearts. Season 4 as
horror. After appearing in the Scream The season’s standout fan favourite Eddie Munson.
remake as Tara Carpenter, she has character also had a long-lasting effect on – INSTAGRAM/
established herself as a legitimate horror the popular Netflix series. With a leading @JOSEPHQUINN
star. She also portrayed Lorraine Day, a role in A Quiet Place: Day One from
Simone Ashley made her acting debut in two would-be adult film star, in the slasher Paramount, Joseph Quinn has found his
episodes of the fantasy teen drama Wolfblood. thriller X. More recently, Ortega’s next significant endeavour.
– INSTAGRAM/ @SIMONEASHLEY outstanding performance as the ‘creepy Joe Locke (Heartstopper)
and kooky’ Wednesday Addams in a new The popularity of the queer-focused Netflix
limited series cemented her star status and series helped Joe Locke achieve fame. The
proved her power on Netflix. fans were quite happy as a result of the
Simone Ashley (Bridgerton) lighthearted, love, and coming of age with
Bridgerton season 2 gave Simone Ashley a joy series. Additionally, Locke made his
breakout role that helped establish her as a acting debut in Heartstopper, where he
female lead. She portrayed the oldest submitted a homemade tape and was
Sharma sister with a fierceness that helped selected for the part. The 19-year-old actor
Kate become one of the most noteworthy will appear in the Disney + WandaVision
new characters on the show. Ashley had spin-off Agatha: Coven of Chaos.
already made an impression on audiences
previously in the Netflix series Sex
Education.
Joseph Quinn (Stranger Things)
One of the most notable new characters in
Stranger Things season 4 is Eddie Munson,
who is portrayed by Joseph Quinn. The 29-
ENTERTAINMENT
17theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
Unleashing the beast
█ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI o Hindi movie Bhediya (which means wolf) is a light-hearted
comedy about a man who becomes a saviour and protector
THE movie opens with a of the jungle after he is turned into a werewolf
scene of a father telling a
story to his little girl in a cave Varun
about a wolf in the jungle. Dhawan as
Just then, a wolf appears and attacks Bhaskar the
both father and child. werewolf.
We then cut to present day, where Kriti Sanon
Bhaskar Sharma, (played by Varun plays a
Dhawan), a road construction
contractor, gets a project to build a veterinarian.
highway running through the middle
of a jungle in Ziro. 0 Director:
Amar Kaushik
Bhaski – as he is called – travels 0 Cast: Varun
with his cousin Janardhan, or JD Dhawan, Kriti
(Abhishek Banerjee), to Itanagar, Sanon,
Arunachal Pradesh, to convince the Abhishek
locals to agree with the construction Banerjee,
plan, which will connect with other Deepak
cities in India. Dobriyal,
Paalin Kabak jungle and night But the best acting award should
After arriving in Ziro, Bhaski scene are simply go to the actors playing the
meets up with a guide, Jomin (Paalin amazing. The werewolves, especially the female
Kabak). E-VALUE transformation from one, for one touching scene at the
7 man to werewolf is end of the movie.
On their way to Itanagar, the car probably the best
gets stuck in the middle of the jungle, ACTING scene to watch in the Some of the worst scenes include
and a wolf chases Bhaski and bites 4 the toilet humour scene, which felt
him on his buttocks. Instead of more disgusting than funny.
taking him to the hospital, Jomin PLOT entire movie!
brings him to Dr. Anika Mittal (Kriti 6 As for acting, Meanwhile, the songs are just not
Sanon), a veterinarian, to prevent the Varun Dhawan is memorable, and in addition to this,
villagers from finding about the wolf just about average as a werewolf and the dance number during the credits
attack. will make you lose interest after a roll is completely unnecessary.
while. Somehow, watching the movie
Days later, Bhaski meets Panda reminded me of actor Taylor Because the movie opened with a
(Deepak Dobriyal) and holds a Lautner’s werewolf character in the chilling wolf attack scene, we felt it
meeting with the local village people Twilight movies! would set the tone for the rest of the
to get permission for the project. Kriti has not much to do, and she movie, but sadly, it did not.
While some agree, others, such as is just fine in her role.
Panda, disagree and express However, the supporting cast were Though some scenes are scary or
environmental concerns, suggesting all really good, from Abhishek, who give you a chill, the movie turns out to
that the road be built on the outskirts provided much of the laughter in the be more of a comedy than horror!
of the jungle to avoid and save movie, to Deepak’s expressions and
animal habitat and trees. On top of performance and Paalin’s The movies seem to be an attempt
this, the local community are also spot twice, he will return to normal. take home. memorable lines. to create something different (or
unhappy with the plan, as the jungle However, his plan to get the wolf It emphasises the importance of It’s not often you find an Indian perhaps, something like the Twilight
is everything to them. protecting the environment, animals, movie with this many Northeastern or other wolf-themed movies), but it
to bite on his buttocks again fails, and their habitats. actors, and Paalin Kabak as Jomin kind of went off track a little, focusing
Meanwhile, there is another wold and the mysterious female wolf During the meeting scene, Panda stands out the most. more on Bhaski, JD and Jomin rather
attack, which kills the people who that bit him earlier turns out to be a and others talk about how humans Jomin shines in his character and than on the mysterious world of the
had supported Bhaski’s highway shape-shifting werewolf who has are the ones encroaching on animal we feel he has made a bigger impact wolves in the deep jungle (after all,
plan just a few days later. been guarding the forest for more habitats and not otherwise, and that than the rest of the cast. the title means wolf!) but we applaud
than 100 years. cutting down trees and clearing the In one scene, Jomin tells JD that the filmmakers’ efforts and the visual
Bhaski, it turns out, transforms area destroys their habitats. just because they don’t speak fluent effects.
into a werewolf at night, especially She reveals that she bit him in Apart from the social message, the Hindi does not make them any less of
on full moon nights. During the day, order to turn him from a destroyer visual effect and shots of the beautiful an Indian. The moral of the story is: don’t
Bhaski convinces people to support to a saviour of the forest. destroy the jungle for progress
his idea, but at night, the shape- because saving the environment is, in
shifting werewolf kills the very same The story has some good points to fact, progress for mankind. We got
people who supported him. that, wolf!
To help solve this matter, Bhaski
seeks the help of a 120-year-old local
medicine man, Ojha, who tells him
that if the same wolf bites in the same
Chinese rock band Mayday to hold concert in Malaysia
THE highly-anticipated MAYDAY
world tour concert is finally coming MAYDAY is set to rock Bukit Jalil National Stadium for the Malaysian leg of their Fly
to Malaysia, so turn up your to 2023 World Tour.
excitement in no time!
And this long-awaited Malaysia gig production, this upcoming concert is spectrum of listeners. While they’re scope primarily to the East Asian
Dubbed the Chinese mega-band, in Bukit Jalil National Stadium, surely a can’t-miss extravaganza for on the cusp of middle age, the band music market, MADAY remains one
MAYDAY last performed here in 2017 which can cater up to 100,000 any MAYDAY fan members have a boyish charm to of the world’s best-selling bands.
and packed Stadium Merdeka with audiences will be a massive them that has attracted both new
over 25,000 in the audience. After comeback. MAYDAY, consisting of lead and old listeners to their music over More ticket-related information
being away from Malaysia for more vocalist Ashin, bassist Masa, two decades. will be released soon. Please stay
than five years, MAYDAY will return Involving a spectacular custom- drummer Guan You and guitarists tuned to www.starplanet.com.my for
to reconnect with fans with their new built stage and multi-million huge Stone and Monster, appeals across a Though their fame is limited in concert updates.
tour, titled Fly to 2023.
To be organised by Star Planet, the
Mayday Fly to 2023 World Tour in
Malaysia concert is slated to be held
at the notable Bukit Jalil National
Stadium on Feb 11, 2023 at 8pm.
For the past two years and more,
MAYDAY’s world tour concerts
endured a few rounds of delays.
The soft rock band is eager to
meet their fans as much as the fans
have waited to see them after the
pandemic long haul. Hence, with
much anticipation, their world tour
resumed in November 2022 as the
pandemic gradually resolved.
The United States and Singapore
were among the first few stops which
drew an overwhelming response.
TECH
18 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
The demon Lilith returns as the villain of The Resident Evil 4 remake will contain everything Assassin’s Creed: Mirage is a return
Diablo IV. – BLIZZARD ENTERTAINMENT that made the original game iconic. – CAPCOM to stealth. – UBISOFT
█ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR
VIDEO games are making a return in
quality after the slight dip during
the pandemic era of 2020 to 2021.
This year, 2022, saw the release of
huge games such as Pokemon Legends:
Arceus, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Horizon
Forbidden West, Elden Ring and God of War:
Ragnarok. Some of these will inevitably win
gaming awards by year’s end.
Next year, however, will see a huge surge
in large, AAA videogames being released.
Here is a look at the biggest releases for 2023.
Skull & Bones
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation
5, Xbox Series X/S
In development hell for a decade, the game
will be inspired by the naval battles that
made Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed IV: Black
Flag highly popular when the latter came out
in 2013.
Developed by Ubisoft Singapore, the
game will have both a single-player
campaign and an online co-op mode. It will
take place on both land and at sea, with the
former being more social in nature (taking
contracts, building a fleet, etc.), while the
combat will take place entirely at sea.
If it isn’t delayed again, Skull & Bones will
release on March 9.
Resident Evil 4 Remake A great year for gaming?Sail,pirateandplundertheIndianOceanonSkull&Bones.–UBISOFT
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation o2024 is set to feature a lot of high quality, wallet-emptying video games
4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Though only officially revealed June this Diablo 4 Final Fantasy VII Remake, which ended with Clive Rosfield will be a solo fighter who will be
year, the game was secretly in development Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, the lead characters leaving the steampunk city accompanied by AI-controller members.
for at least five years since 2018, though PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S of Midgar after a series of climatic boss fights.
rumours of its existence were definitely The last main game in the series, Diablo III, Yoshida previously worked on Final Fantasy
around, which was spurred on by how was released over ten years ago in 2012. Since Not much is known about Rebirth’s story, XIV, which was initially directed by someone
Capcom had been remaking the old Resident then, it was ported from the PC to consoles, except that it most likely won’t be following the else and become a critical and commercial
Evil games. and received two expansions until 2017. The original Final Fantasy VII’s story from 1997 due failure.
Burning Hells remained quiet until the sequel to how the end of Remake went wild with
For those unfamiliar with the original was announced in 2019. “creative liberties” and with the reveal shown Yoshida turned the ship around for the
game, the remake will follow the original in the only trailer released so far. All signs point game and made it into a moneymaker for
storyline, where Special Agent Leon Supposedly taking into consideration the towards “different timelines”. developer Square Enix and a beloved game for
Kennedy is sent to a rural Spanish village to many, many criticisms that DIII received, DIV fans, so hope is riding high on the success of
rescue the daughter of U.S. President. will be returning to the gothic darkness and art Rebirth has a tentative release date of “2023 FFXVI after a string of terrible mainline Final
direction from the games before DIII, which winter”, which could mean anytime between Fantasy games.
Leon would then find out that the was much more colourful and brighter. December 2023 to March 2024. Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League
villagers are infected with a parasite created Final Fantasy 16 Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 5,
from the T-Virus, which caused the initial The game’s story will also be supposedly Platform: PlayStation 5 Xbox Series X/S
zombie outbreak in the early Resident Evil returning to the more macabre, sombre The second Final Fantasy game releasing in Developed by Rocksteady Studios, Kill the
games. storytelling of earlier games, as the trailer 2023, Final Fantasy XVI is the next mainline Justice League is set in Rocksteady’s
shows tomb raiders being gruesomely game in the series and it comes seven years “Arkhamverse”, where the Suicide Squad are
The surprise remake will release on sacrificed to bring the demon Lilith back to life. after Final Fantasy XV (and its army of sent by Amanda Waller to Metropolis to, well,
March 24. downloadable content). kill the Justice League, as its members have
Assassin’s Creed: Mirage Diablo IV’s development is reportedly close been mind-controlled by the alien Brainiac in
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation to completion, with rumours pointing to a FFXVI will be set in the fantasy world of its invasion of Earth.
4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S release in the middle of 2023. Valisthea, with a story set around royalties and
After the early Assassin’s Creed games, the Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth empires battling for power. The game will also The game was initially supposed to release
franchise underwent an overhaul where it Platform: PlayStation 5 depart the series’ RPG tradition of having this year, but has been pushed back to Q1/Q2
strayed away from its heavy stealth gameplay Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the sequel to 2020’s controllable party members, as lead character next year.
and became more action-oriented, and then
later, more action and role-playing.
In Mirage, developer Ubisoft Bordeaux
are taking the game back to its stealth roots,
heavily emphasising on the traditional
gameplay of close-quarter combat, parkour
and stealth.
The game will be set in 9th century
Baghdad and follow Basim Ibn Ishaq, who
will develop from a street thief to a member
of the Assassin Brotherhood.
The Suicide Squad will undertake the impossible. Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth seeks to fully utilise the Final Fantasy XVI’s story returns to the high fantasy
– WARNER BROS. INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT performance of the PlayStation 5. – SQUARE ENIX storytelling of older games. – SQUARE ENIX
FEATURE
19theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
█ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL
SINCE its inception in
December 2016, Spotify has
annually released a campaign
called Spotify Wrapped, via
which users and artistes can access
and share a retrospective of their
listening activity on the service
throughout the previous calendar
year.
This year, however, things have
changed. This is the first time the
music streaming service has released
this particular music review in
November, as all previous Spotify
Wrapped campaigns were released
during the first week of December.
What is Spotify wrapped? wGlroabpapletdre2n0d2s2on Spotify (clockwise
Spotify Wrapped is a “deep dive” into from top)
the user’s or listener’s listening habits o As 2022 winds down, let’s explore how BTS, Bad
throughout the year, with an it influenced listeners on these music Bunny, Swift
emphasis on both music and streaming platforms and Styles
podcasts. Powered by AI, each were the
listener’s Spotify Wrapped usually The AI-powered Spotify campaign collects information about users’ app usage trendsetters
comprises the top five musicians and in order to generate more interesting results about your musical preferences. – on Spotify in
top five tracks they have streamed SPOTIFY 2022.
the most, their preferred music
genre(s), and the number of minutes
they spend listening to music in the
app.
Above all, Spotify introduces new
categories each year to make the
campaign more engaging. As of this
year, users can observe how many
genres they’ve explored or how their
mood typically varied during the day
as they listened to music for example,
from sentimental mornings to
bittersweet and heartache-feeling
afternoons, to warm and happy
nights.
Spotify Wrapped 2022 also
introduces a whole new Listening
Personality feature. Essentially, the
feature analyses the users’
preferences in music and classifies
them in any of the following four
personality metrics and each
personality has its own traits which
are Familiarity vs Exploration,
Loyalty vs Variety, Timeliness vs
Newness, and Commonality vs
Uniqueness.
For instance, those who listen to
their favourite artistes over and over
are more inclined towards
Familiarity than those who explore
new artistes more.
There are also sixteen personality
cards, each of which is named
according to how the user’s listening
personality is shaped by their
musical preferences. For instance,
‘The Early Adapter’ is someone who
has a “finger on the pulse of new
music”, whilst ‘The Maverick’ is
someone who listens to tunes that
are not mainstream.
Most-Streamed artistes Globally platforms directly from Spotify. The Styles, too. The English singer- the most-streamed retro music in Top podcasts of 2022
In addition to the individual second place in this category was songwriter has the most-streamed 2022. This year’s most-streamed At last, in 2022, The Joe Rogan
statistics, Spotify also reveals taken by The Weeknd, followed once song of the year on Spotify with As It retro song was Running Up That Hill Experience was once again the most
information on the platform’s overall again by Bad Bunny, BTS, and Lana Was. When Spotify Unwrapped 2022 (A Deal With God) by Kate Bush, streamed podcast in the world on
listening activity. According to the Del Rey. was released, the song had been whose fame was revived by the Spotify. After Anything Goes with
data gathering, Bad Bunny was the streamed over 1.6 billion times popular American Netflix series Emma Chamberlain, Alex Cooper’s
most popular artiste on Spotify in Now on to the most viral artiste throughout the entire world. Stranger Things. podcast Call Her Daddy takes the
2022, followed by Taylor Swift, Drake, globally. Unsurprisingly, Taylor Swift silver.
The Weeknd, and BTS. also made the cut, signifying that The second and third positions It was then followed by Coldplay’s
people often shared her music from were taken by Heat Waves by Glass Yellow and Eminem’s The Real Slim The fourth place spot is then taken
Bad Bunny, a Puerto Rican rapper, Spotify on other social media Animals and Stay (featuring Justin Shady. The Marshall Mathers LP by Spotify Original podcast, Caso 63,
made history by entering the most- platforms. The Weeknd finished in Bieber) by The Kid LAROI, was also the most-streamed which, apart from English, debuted in
streamed artiste category for the the second position, followed by Bad respectively. The singles Me Porto throwback record of 2022. Kate Spanish, Brazilian, Portuguese, and
third consecutive year. This year, his Bunny, BTS, and Lana Del Rey. Bonito and Tit Me Preguntó by Bad Bush’s Hounds Of Love, Coldplay’s Hindi while the fifth place goes to a
songs were streamed 18.5 billion Most-Streamed Songs Globally Bunny were ranked fourth and fifth, Parachutes, Dr. Dre’s 2001, and The true-crime podcast by Ashley
times on Spotify, and his album Un The year 2022 was fantastic for Harry respectively. Beatles’ 1 were among the other Flowers and Brit Prawat, Crime
Verano Sin Ti was the most- most-streamed classic albums. Junkie.
streamed album in the world. In particular, Spotify has explored
Taylor Swift followed Bad Bunny
as the second most streamed artiste
overall. Her album Midnights, which
was released on Oct 21, was the
fourth most listened album
worldwide on Spotify.
The next three artistes to round up
the top five most streamed artiste
categories on Spotify in 2022 were
Drake, The Weeknd, and the K-pop
supergroup BTS.
Most-viral artistes Globally
Surprisingly, Taylor Swift makes
another appearance on the list,
meaning that her music was most
frequently shared on social media
FEATURE
20 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
█ BY SHOBANA MANOKARAN
MALAYSIANS can look
forward to the world-
renowned exhibition Van
Gogh Alive, an immersive
art exhibition paying homage to
historically acclaimed artist, Vincent
Van Gogh. This fully interactive and
Instagram-worthy exhibit will
accompany the Van Gogh Alive
exhibition in Malaysia to take visitors
on an immersive journey through the
artist’s imagination and
masterpieces.
Created and produced by Grande
Experiences, co-produced by KKLive Sunflowers react your presence by
and Gravitytai Co., Ltd., the lighting up and follow your every
exhibition – which has already been move.
presented in over 80 cities worldwide
– forgoes the preconceived ideas of Visitors can get up close to the
traditional museum visits, and hopes exhibits.
to change how individuals engage inspired by Van Gogh’s masterpieces,
with art. as they react to your presence,
The exhibition will have floor- following your every move.
to-ceiling projections of the post- AI Self Portrait
impressionist painter’s dramatic Have a portrait of you created, in the
brushstrokes and bright colours Post-Impressionist style of one of the
that unfold the story of the artist’s world’s most renowned artists,
past. Vincent Van Gogh. As one of Asia’s
Van Gogh Alive has also placed its first deployment of an AI generated
name in Malaysian Book of Records, portrait, be one of the few to bring
in not one, but two categories – First your own Post-Impressionist portrait
AI Multisensory Digital Art home.
Exhibition, and The Largest Visitors Art Installation
in a Multisensory Digital Art A mermerising experience awaits in
Exhibition. the form of your own artistic creation.
YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Using your own words, coupled with
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts & A.I., watch as it translates into an art
Culture (MOTAC) said: “It brings me installation right before you very eyes.
pride to see our Malaysian Shower of Joy
corporations evolve and showcase As flowers wither and fall, celebrate
their innovations to the world. This (from third left) Pua, YB Khairul Firdaus and Choo pose together with exhibition partners and executives at the launch of Van the significance of the event and
exclusivity is key to generating an Gogh Alive. – ALL PIX BY ADIB RAWI/THESUN witness flower petals swirling and
international demand for such events landing on you, touching your ver
and driving tourist arrivals. coMmaestteorpliifeeces soul. This is inspired by the artwork of
“I take this opportunity to thank to experience the wonders of Reiji Hiramatsu’s Nihonga paintings.
the organisers and producers of Van o Van Gogh Alive is Malaysia’s first projection mapping, illuminating the Infinity Zoom
Gogh Alive and The Greatest Artist for multisensory and digital art exhibition appreciation of conceptual, With inspiration from the Zoomquilt
being daring enough to execute the of the Dutch master’s works contemporary and sensorial art by by Berlin artist Nikilaus Baumgarten,
immersive exhibition and providing a The Greatist Artist: allow your brainwaves to weave a
platform for Malaysians to learn and AI Artist Greeting patchwork of different paintings into
grow in this regard.” Be welcomed to their immersive a single, seemingly endless shot,
Additionally, the hosts of the space by none other than Van Gogh seemingly zooming into infinity.
event; Meta Doers World Holdings himself, brought to life by A.I! From
Berhad (MDW) & FrameMotion his life between the mid and late
Studio Sdn. Bhd. has teased the 1800s, to how he became one of the
inclusion of an additional AI- greatest Post-Impressionists in the
powered, fully-interactive exhibit that world, relive his achievements in a
is built exclusively for visitors in way like never before.
Malaysia to enjoy. While the primary Infinity Starry Walkway
exhibition allows attendees to As you traverse through the field of
reminisce about the famous painter’s stars, soak in the atmosphere of a
art in larger-than life cascades of seemingly infinite space, marveling at
colors, the new addition will allow “Visitors can be prepared for a once- unable to find anywhere else in the the stars. Inspired by James Abbott
attendees to take a deep dive into the in-a-lifetime experience as they enter world.” McNeill Whistler’s Nocturne in Black
painter’s history and get a hands-on into another world and immerse and Gold, this immersive experience
immersive Van Gogh art history themselves in Van Gogh’s art. This once-in-a-lifetime displays the muted yet harmonious
experience through ample interactive experience of Van Gogh’s artworks composition he was known for.
activities. “Since this is the first time Van will be available to the public until The Light of Hope
Ken Choo Chee Heong, Chief Gogh Alive is coming to Malaysia, we March 16, 2023, and tickets can be Feel the pulsating vibes of sunflowers,
Marketing Officer of MDW, and Jeand partnered it with an additional purchased at www.vangogh.com.my
Pua, Chief Executive Officer of exhibition to elevate the event by priced at RM75 for adults and RM68
FrameMotion Studio shared: letting visitors have a more hands-on, for children & senior citizens.
interactive experience that they are
Visitors will have the opportunity
Shower of Joy. The Light of Hope.
322 Notices 21theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
* SPORTS
322 Notices 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH SHORTS
TINGGI MALAYA DI KUALA LUMPUR Reds splash the cash
322 Notices IN THE MATTER Gakpo for Gakpo
IN THE MATTER OF OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 (BAHAGIAN PERDAGANGAN)
IN THE MATTER OF PETISYEN (PENGGULUNGAN) LIVERPOOL are set to beat
THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND Manchester United to the signing of
AND IN THE MATTER OF IN THE MATTER OF SYARIKAT NO.: Netherlands international Cody
PDM INTERNATIONAL AND PRECISION EARTHWORK SDN BHD WA-28NCC-957-12/2022 Gakpo, one of the stars of the World
SDN. BHD. IN THE MATTER OF (FORMERLY KNOWN AS BETTERMARK Dalam Perkara Seksyen 465(1)(e) Cup, after his club PSV confirmed that
(Co. Reg. No. 504003-T) FINUCO SDN BHD (200801005130) PRECISION SDN BHD) dibaca bersama Seksyen 466(1)(a) Akta an agreement had been reached for a
(In Members’ Voluntary COMPANY NO. 326000-X Syarikat 2016; January transfer.
Liquidation) (806414-U)
(IN MEMBERS’ (CREDITORS’ Dan PSV announced yesterday that
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) Dalam Perkara Kaedah-Kaedah Gakpo has been given permission to
pursuant to Section 459 of At a Meeting of Members of FINUCO SDN NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to (Penggulungan) Syarikat, 1972; travel to England for a medical. The
the Companies Act 2016, that BHD (200801005130) (806414-U) duly Section 439(2) of the Companies Act, fee, which PSV confirmed would be a
a Final Meeting of the above convened at SO-26-02, Menara 1, No. 3, 2016 that the Special Resolution set out Dan record for the Dutch club, is
named Company will be Jalan Bangsar, KL Eco City, 59200 Kuala below was duly passed by members of Dalam Perkara ACE PICTURES reportedly between €40 million to
held at Falcon Management Lumpur on 27 December 2022 at 11.00 the Company on 23.12.2022 “That the ENTERTAINMENT SDN. BHD. (No. €50 million (RM188-235m).
Services Sdn. Bhd. (formally a.m. the following Special Resolution was Company be wound-up voluntarily and Syarikat: 1217596-K)
known as ASI Management duly passed :- that Mr. Wong Soon Fong of 221B, Jalan Manchester United were in talks to
Services Sdn. Bhd.), B-5-4, “THAT the Company be wound up Mahkota, Taman Maluri, 55100 Kuala ANTARA sign Gakpo from PSV last summer and
Block B, Megan Avenue 1, 189, voluntarily pursuant to Section 439 (1) Lumpur be and is hereby appointed GBBLOCK WORLD SDN. BHD. were set to revive their interest in the
Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala (b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that liquidator for the purpose of such (No. Syarikat. : 1298585-V) 23-year-old following his eye-catching
Lumpur on 31 January 2023 at MS TEOH KOK JONG (LS 04719 / PC No. winding-up.” performances in Qatar this past
10.00 a.m. for the purpose of 201908001451) of SO-26-02, Menara 1, No. Dated this 28.12.2022 …PEMPETISYEN month, where he scored three goals
having an account laid before 3, Jalan Bangsar, KL Eco City, 59200 Kuala DAN in five appearances as the
the members, showing the Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as IN THE MATTER OF ACE PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT SDN. Netherlands reached the
manner, in which the winding Liquidator for the purpose of such winding THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 BHD. (No. Syarikat. : 1217596-K) quarterfinals.
up has been conducted and up with all powers given by Section 456 of
the property of the company the Companies Act, 2016.” AND …RESPONDEN Liverpool have instead acted
disposed of, and of hearing Dated this 28 December 2022 IN THE MATTER OF NOTIS IKLAN PETISYEN swiftly to sign the versatile attacker,
any explanation that may be YEE CHIN CHIN PRECISION EARTHWORK SDN BHD NOTIS dengan ini adalah diberi bahawa who has scored 12 goals and made 15
given by the liquidators. Director (FORMERLY KNOWN AS BETTERMARK satu Petisyen untuk menggulungkan assists for PSV this season.
A member entitled to attend IN THE MATTER OF PRECISION SDN BHD) Syarikat tersebut di Mahkamah Tinggi
and vote at the above meeting THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 COMPANY NO. 326000-X Kuala Lumpur telah pada 05-12-2022 A statement from PSV said: “PSV
may appoint a proxy to attend diperserahkan di Mahkamah oleh and Liverpool. have reached an
and vote instead of him. A AND (CREDITORS’ GBBlock World Sdn. Bhd. DAN Petisyen agreement on the proposed transfer
proxy need not be a member IN THE MATTER OF VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) tersebut diarahkan untuk didengar oleh of Cody Gakpo.
of the Company. Proxies to FINUCO SDN BHD NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Mahkamah yang bersidang di Kuala
be used at the meeting must (200801005130) (806414-U) creditors of the abovenamed Company Lumpur pada 18-07-2023 pukul 9.00 “The 23-year-old attacker will leave
be lodged not later than 48 which is being wound-up voluntarily pagi dan mana-mana Pemiutang atau for England imminently where he will
hours before the date of the (IN MEMBERS’ are required on or before 30.01.2023 Pencarum Syarikat tersebut yang ingin be subjected to the necessary
meeting. VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) to send their names and addresses menyokong atau membantah Perintah formalities ahead of the completion
Lee Chee Hong NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors with particulars of their debts or claims di dalam Petisyen itu boleh hadir pada of the transfer.”
Yap You Mun of the abovenamed Company, which is and the names and addresses of their waktu perbicaraan dengan sendirinya
Liquidators being voluntarily wound up, are required solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the atau melalui peguamnya bagi tujuan PSV general manager Marcel
Dated this 28 December 2022 on or before 27 January 2023 to send their liquidator of the said Company and if so tersebut dan sesalinan Petisyen Brands confirmed Gakpo’s anticipated
names and addresses with particulars of required in writing by the said liquidator, akan diberikan pada mana-mana transfer would be a “record” for the
322 Notices their debts or claims and of any security are by their solicitors or personally to Pemiutang ataupun Pencarum Syarikat Eredivisie club. Hirving Lozano’s move
PERLADANGAN LESTARI held by them, and the names, addresses of come in and prove their said debts or tersebut yang mengkehendakinya to Napoli in 2019 for a reported €42
their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned claims at such time and place as shall oleh penandatangan di bawah dengan million (RM197m) was the previous
SDN. BHD. the liquidator at SO-26-02, Menara 1, No. be specified in such notice or in default membuat bayaran yang ditetapkan highest sale by the Dutch outfit.
(Registration No. 3, Jalan Bangsar, KL Eco City, 59200 Kuala thereof they will be excluded from the untuknya.
201201020684 Lumpur, and if so required by notice in benefits of any such distribution made Alamat Pempetisyen ialah di 105-07-08 Blades get promotion boost the spoils in yesterday’s goalless draw.
writing from the said liquidator, by their before such debts are proved. Jalan Gurdwara, Hexagon Tech Park, Kion Etete, Callum Robinson, Callum
(1005176-H)) Solicitors or personally to come and prove Dated this 28.12.2022 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, SHEFFIELD UNITED eased to a 3-1 win
(Incorporated in their debts or claims at such time and place Malaysia. against Coventry as a seventh success in O’Dowda and Perry Ng all had decent
as shall be specified in such notice, or in Liquidator Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah Tetuan eight Championship games boosted the chances, but the truth of the matter is
Malaysia) default thereof they will be excluded from Wong Soon Fong Roshan beralamat di Suite 7-01, Blok Blades’ bid to reach the Premier League. Cardiff finished the game with zero shots on
Members’ Voluntary the benefits of any distribution made before c/o SFW Insolvency Services B, Tingkat 7, Kelana Square, 17, Jalan target.
such debts are proved. 221B, Jalan Mahkota, Taman Maluri SS7/26, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Goals from James McAtee, Ciaran Clark
Winding Up Dated this 28 December 2022 55100 Kuala Lumpur Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. and Tommy Doyle kept Paul And, speaking about the result after the
NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING TEOH KOK JONG Heckingbottom’s team in second place in game, Hudson said: “I’m disappointed not to
UNDER SECTION 459(1) OF Liquidator 322 Notices TETUAN ROSHAN the table but level on points with leaders get the three points, really.
THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 NOTA-Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada Burnley.
Notice is hereby given that IN THE MATTER OF DALAM PERKARA MAHKAMAH hari Pendengaran Petisyen mestilah “Callum O’Dowda’s header just about hit
the Final General Meeting THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 TINGGI MALAYA DI MELAKA menyerahkan pada ataupun melalui Viktor Gyokeres, who earlier missed a the side netting, Kion was in the right place.
of the members of the PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT Pos kepada Tetuan Roshan secara penalty, scored for Coventry midway
company will be held at No. AND bertulis niatnya untuk berbuat begitu. through the second half at Bramall Lane. “We have showed we can create over
1, Persiaran BG Perdana IN THE MATTER OF NO. MA - 28NCC - 41 - 11 / 2022 Notis tersebut mestilah menyatakan and over again in the games we played. But
9, Pusat Komersial BG COMMISSUM SDN. BHD. DALAM PERKARA SEKSYEN 465 nama dan alamat orang tersebut atau Despite playing the final 13 minutes with we need more belief in front of goal.
Perdana, 31000 Batu Gajah, (Registration No. 201701022535 (1) (e) AKTA SYARIKAT, 2016 jika ianya sebuah firma, nyatakan 10 men after John Egan was sent off for a
Perak on 3rd February, nama dan alamat firma itu dan mesti second yellow card, United held on for a “The boys are a bit disappointed they
2023 at 10.00 am for the (1236701-K)) DAN ditandatangani oleh orang tersebut atau victory that leaves them eight points ahead didn’t get three and I second that. We
purpose of receiving the (In Members’ Voluntary Winding DALAM PERKARA MIZATEK firma tersebut atau penguamcaranya of third placed Blackburn. wanted to send the fans home with three
accounts and reports of the MEWAH SDN. BHD. (NO. SYARIKAT atau penguamcara mereka (jika ada) points. But the work rate, endeavour and
Liquidator in relation to the Up) 200701005756 [763757-U]) dan mestilah diserahkan ataupun jika “There will be bumps in the road, so the willingness to fight, long may that continue.”
winding up of the Company At a General Meeting of the diposkan mengikut tempoh supaya more we do now, the better we’ll be at the
in pursuant to Section abovenamed Company duly convened ANTARA sampai kepada penama di atas tidak end of the season,” said Heckingbottom.
459(1) of the Companies and held on 20th December 2022, RHB BANK BERHAD lewat dari pukul 12.00 tengahari
Act, 2016 the books and the following resolutions was duly (NO. SYARIKAT 196501000373 pada 17-07-2023 (sebelum hari yang Sunderland had dented Blackburn’s
papers of the company passed:- [6171-M]) ditetapkan bagi pendengaran Petisyen promotion challenge earlier when Ellis
and or subsequent to the “THAT pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of tersebut). Simms snatched the stoppage-time winner
commencement of the the Companies Act 2016, the Company … PEMPETISYEN [(RS/CIVL/4/11/22/GBBLOCK)] in Sunderland’s 2-1 victory at the Stadium of
company be destroyed be wound up voluntarily.” DAN Light.
accordingly. “THAT the Liquidator may exercise any MIZATEK MEWAH SDN. BHD. IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA
CHAN WAI MENG powers in accordance with Section (NO. SYARIKAT 200701005756 AT TAIPING Millwall kept the pressure on in the battle
Liquidator 456 and Eleventh Schedule of the [763757-U]) to reach the playoff places with an
Date: 28th December, 2022 Companies Act 2016.” IN STATE OF PERAK DARUL impressive 2-0 win at Watford.
“THAT in accordance with the Articles … RESPONDEN RIDZUAN, MALAYSIA
of Association of the Company, the IKLAN PETISYEN COMPANIES Goals from Andreas Voglsammer
Liquidator may distribute to the NOTIS ADALAH DENGAN INI DIBERI and Zian Flemming saw the Lions
members in kind the whole or any part bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk (WINDING-UP) PETITION move just two points behind their
of the assets of the Company.” penggulungan Syarikat yang NO. AB-28NCC-11-11/2022 fourth-placed opponents.
PENG AI LIN dinamakan di atas oleh Mahkamah
Chairman Tinggi telah, pada 29 November In the matter of Sections 465(1)(e) & Norwich’s poor form continued
Dated this 28th December 2022 2022, dikemukakan oleh RHB BANK 466(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016 with a 2-1 defeat at Luton to remain
BERHAD. 12 points off the automatic promotion
IN THE MATTER OF DAN bahawa Petisyen tersebut AND places in fifth.
THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 diarahkan supaya dibicarakan di
hadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang In the matter of JIMAT JIMAT FRESH Hudson urges
AND di Melaka pada pukul 2.00 petang & FROZEN MART SDN. BHD. Cardiff to have
IN THE MATTER OF pada 6 Mac 2023 secara sidang video. (Company No. : 201901016595 ‘more belief’
COMMISSUM SDN. BHD. DAN mana-mana pihak Pemiutang [1325923-H])
(Registration No. 201701022535 atau penyumbang Syarikat CARDIFF CITY
tersebut yang ingin menyokong BETWEEN manager Mark
(1236701-K)) atau menentang sesuatu Perintah Hudson said his
(In Members’ Voluntary Winding mengikut Petisyen tersebut NG SAY WOOI players were
boleh hadir dengan tujuan itu secara (NRIC : 880923-08-6227) disappointed they didn’t come
Up) peribadi atau melalui peguambelanya An individual trading under the away with all three points
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the pada masa perbicaraan. Salinan name and style of Tong Heng Fruit against QPR and thinks his
creditors of the abovementioned Petisyen tersebut akan dibekalkan Enterprise players need more “belief” in
Company, which is being wound up oleh pihak yang bertandatangan Business Registration No.: front of goal to convert those
voluntarily, are required on or before di bawah kepada mana-mana 200303112042 (IP0197176-D) draws into wins.
30th January 2023 to send in their pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat ...PETITIONER
names and addresses with particulars tersebut yang memintanya dengan Cardiff are now winless in Ronaldo medical‘booked’
of their debts or claim and the names membuat bayaran yang ditetapkan. AND five and have come out on top at Al-Nassr
and addresses of their solicitors (if Alamat berdaftar Pempetisyen in only two of their last 11
any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator adalah di Level 10, Tower One, RHB JIMAT JIMAT FRESH & FROZEN MART games, however they had a AL-NASSR have reportedly booked
of the said Company; and if so required Centre, Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala SDN. BHD. number of opportunities to take Cristiano Ronaldo’s medical as the Saudi
by notice in writing from the said Lumpur. (Company No. : 201901016595
Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah [1325923-H])
personally, to come and prove their Tetuan Taye & Co. yang beralamat di
debts or claims at such time and place No. 23F, Taman Harta Pertama, Bukit …RESPONDENT
as shall be specified in such notice, or Baru, 75150 Melaka.
in default thereof they will be excluded ..............t.t............... ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION Arabian side grow in confidence that a
from the benefit of any distribution TETUAN TAYE & COMPANY transfer can be completed before the turn of
made before such debts or claims are Peguamcara bagi Pempetisyen NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition the year.
proved. PERINGATAN : for Winding-Up of the abovenamed If he signs on the dotted line, Ronaldo’s
Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada Respondent by the High Court was contract would come with a number
KHOR YONG YONG perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut on the 23rd day of November, 2022 of unusual perks, including
Liquidator hendaklah menyampaikan atau presented by Ng Say Wooi AND significant sway over how the club is
menghantar dengan pos kepada that the said Petition is directed to run.
Wisma Golden Eagle Realty, Peguamcara Pempetisyen tersebut be heard before the Court sitting Since his Manchester United exit,
11th Floor, South Block, di atas suatu notis bertulis tentang at Taiping at 9.00 o’clock in the Al-Nassr has seemed to be
No 142-A, Jalan Ampang, niatnya sebegitu. Notis tersebut forenoon, on the 21st day of February Ronaldo’s most likely destination
50450 Kuala Lumpur. mestilah menyatakan nama dan 2023; and any creditor or contributory and CBS Sports claim that the Saudi
Tel: +60 3 2161 5222 alamat pihak berkenaan, atau jika of the said Company desiring to outfit are so confident that they have
ia sebuah firma, nama dan alamat support or oppose the making of an now booked in the five-time
Dated this 28th December 2022 firma, dan mestilah ditandatangani order on the said Petition may appear
oleh pihak atau firma berkenaan at the time of hearing by himself or
atau peguamcaranya, jika ada. Notis his counsel for that purpose and a
hendaklah disampaikan, atau jika copy of the Petition will be furnished
dihantar dengan pos, hendaklah to any creditor or contributory of the
dihantar dalam jangkamasa said Company requiring the same by
mencukupi, supaya sampai kepada the undersigned on payment of the
pihak yang dinamakan di atas regulated charge of the same.
sebelum pukul 12.00 tengahari pada
3 Mac 2023. The Petitioner’s address is at No. 755, Ballon d’Or winner’s medical.
(Ruj : ALT/NLN/234/2022) Jalan Pertama 14, 34000 Taiping, Everything is in
Perak Darul Ridzuan.
The Petitioner’s Solicitors are Messrs place apart from
Fong & Hakim of Suite 1-26, Menara Ronaldo’s signature
TKSS, 206, Jalan Segambut (Off Jalan on a contract that
Duta), 51200 Wilayah Persekutuan would supposedly
Kuala Lumpur.
MESSRS FONG & HAKIM net him a
Solicitors for the Petitioners whopping £66
Note – Any person who intends to million
appear on the hearing of the said (RM350m) per
Petition must serve on or send by post year. On top of
to the above-named solicitors notice that, it would
in writing of his intention to do so. likely see him
The Notice must state the name and roped into
address of the person, or, if a firm, Saudi’s 2030
the name and address of the firm and World Cup bid, putting them
must be signed by the person or firm in direct competition with
or his or their solicitor (if any) and the forward’s native
must be served, or, if posted, must Ronaldo Portugal.
be sent by post in sufficient time to
reach the above-named not later than
twelve o’clock noon on the 20th day
of February 2023 (the day before the
day appointed for the hearing of the
Petition).
(Ref No.: FH/LT/83/2022)
22 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
SPORTS
█ ANDY SIMS Conte hails Kane’s mentality
Skipper scores as Spurs fight back to draw at Brentford
ANTONIO CONTE hailed Harry Kane are strong mentally you move on and Harry did
for sparking Tottenham’s latest a row we have conceded the first goal, that’s not from a section of the Brentford fans. this.
fightback after they slipped behind yet positive. Conte added: “Personally, about Harry I
again. “I think the fans were scared because he is
Spurs came from two goals down to draw 2- “To concede for so many games the have zero doubt about his mentality, about the playing for Tottenham, not for what happened
2 at Brentford after conceding the first goal for first goal or two goals, we have to try to find way he approaches every training session. with England.”
the ninth consecutive match. the solution. For me is the first time this
happen, this situation. But at the same “For Harry he’s facing a strange situation. Brentford striker Toney was back in action
Just 16 days after his penalty miss in the time it was a fantastic reaction from my He had a really good World Cup and also the for the first time since it emerged he had been
World Cup quarterfinal against France, England players.” team played to the quarterfinal, then he charged by the Football Association for alleged
skipper Kane scored with a towering header to missed a decisive penalty. breaches of betting rules.
drag his side back from the brink of defeat. Kane shrugged off the predictable
chants of “you let your country down” “But you know very well in football you His 12th goal of the season put Brentford 2-0
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg then grabbed an can have positive or negative moments. If you up after Janelt opened the scoring from close
equaliser as Tottenham cancelled out goals range.
from Vitaly Janelt and Ivan Toney.
“I wish I knew how he does it because then I
“It was another exciting game. On one side I would bottle it up and sell it for a lot of money,”
have to be happy for the way we played in the said Bees boss Thomas Frank.
second part but not only because we scored two
goals, but with energy and intensity,” Spurs boss “In that way he is very, very special, he has
Conte said. unbelievable character and mentality and the
ability to focus on the moment. His
“When you play this way you create performance today, wow!
problems for your opponent. But nine games in
“He has a natural inner drive to constantly
5573/2022 27/12/2022 (TUE) push himself and those around him. He
constantly is a threat, he’s special.” – The
Independent
0912 Crystal Palace’s James DrawDate:27/12/22(Tue) DrawNo:5520/22 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB
3441 Tomkins (right) is
9985 shown a red card by
referee Andrew
9659 5615 5496 6346 Madley during the 1556
5127 0680 1349 2966 English Premier
2030 9570 2406 5280 League match against 4961
8673 6782 3715 1638 Fulham yesterday. –
6440 8644 7844 7306 REUTERSPIX 6142
0912 3441 2,562,176.29 Silva dedicates Fulham win 4145 + 1339 6882 + 5956
0912 9985 3441 0912 to former great Cohen 9132 + 7133 7059 + 9923
3441 9985 9985 0912 7338 + 3906 6135 + 7740
9985 3441 4902 + 9863 5775 + 0893
242,150.25 4450 + 9158 3925 + 4733
RM4,719,101.60
0912 FULHAM manager Marco Silva club,” Silva said. “We lost one of the best 1556 + 4961 4961 + 1556
dedicated his side’s 3-0 victory at nine- and the greatest. I mentioned that to 1556 + 6142 6142 + 1556
3441 man Crystal Palace to George Cohen, our players and how it was important 4961 + 6142 6142 + 4961
9985 the club’s World Cup-winning England for us, not to win but to perform in our
BOAR rightback who died last week. way, with our identity. For our fans as RM100,000.00
well.
The team came out in warm-up tops 981 556 + BOAR RM2,592,222.10
with “Cohen 2” on the back, and then “We had a plan and the players stuck
93115 put on a display that would have filled really well to it. We were brave from the 374 961 + SNAKE RM841,666.60
3115 their former great with pride. first minute.
84743 115 186 142 + RAT RM2,025,972.10
31696 15 Serbia striker Aleksandar Mitrovic “We knew they had won their last
laid on goals for Bobby De Cordova- three matches at home and if you don’t
572661 Reid and Tim Ream before scoring his press them from the first minute with 344 145 541 339 966 882 365 956
10th of the campaign 10 minutes from good organisation and be aggressive, it 039 132 047 133 877 059 969 923
57266 72661 time. will be tough. 197 338 973 906 896 135 137 740
5726 2661 284 902 669 863 515 775 250 893
572 661 But Crystal Palace contributed to “The plan went really well and the 834 450 529 158 003 925 614 733
57 61 their own downfall, losing Tyrick players understood. Until the first goal
Mitchell and James Tomkins to red we were clearly the best team on the
cards between Fulham’s first and pitch and after the red card we showed
second goals. the maturity we have to, to play at this
level.” – The Independent
“It was a sad week for our football
Jones to ‘work religiously’
after Brighton defeat
12 13 23 28 52 55 NATHAN JONES vowed to “work Ralph Hasenhuttl just under seven 556 961 142
22,601,583.55 religiously” on Southampton’s weeks ago, rued the blunders but is
shortcomings after his struggling side determined to find solutions following a RM669,828.90
9 24 28 31 37 40 slipped to the bottom of the Premier dismal afternoon to forget.
6,609,908.54 League on the back of an error-strewn 3- 556 + 961 + 142 961 + 142 + 556
1 loss to Brighton. “We gifted them two goals today and 556 + 142 + 961 142 + 556 + 961
15 26 29 34 40 48 41 then that gives them confidence to do 961 + 556 + 142 142 + 961 + 556
7,232,002.22 Former Luton boss Jones endured a what they do and they keep the ball very
100,000.00 miserable first home game in top-flight well,” said the Welshman, whose team 1+3D Jackpot 2 RM197,551.60 won
management to leave him in no doubt were jeered off at the end of each half. on 25/12/2022!
Toto 4D Jackpot 1 about the size of the job at St Mary’s.
“We never really gave ourselves a
RM6,254,743 Southampton goalkeeper Gavin chance of winning. We didn’t do the
Toto 6D Bazunu gifted former Saints star Adam basics well enough and didn’t deserve
RM1,000,000 Lallana a soft opener before Romain anything from the game.
Perraud’s calamitous own goal doubled
won on 25/12/2022 ! Albion’s lead. “We have to make sure we have a
foothold in the game and at the minute
Solly March thumped home a we’re not giving ourselves a chance.
thunderous third early in the second
period to secure success for the rampant “Goals change games, goals change
Seagulls, prior to James Ward-Prowse’s momentum, goals change attitudes, and
consolation for the relegation- that’s what happened today.
threatened hosts.
“We need to do certain things better
Jones, who succeeded the sacked and we will work religiously on that.” –
The Independent
FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN 23theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | DECEMBER 28, 2022
ME * SPORTS
@thesundaily
RESULTS & STANDINGS █ JONATHAN VEAL Howe stays grounded
ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Aston NEWCASTLE boss Eddie … as Magpies climb to second with win at Leicester
Villa 1 (Watkins 59) Liverpool 3 (Salah 5, Howe refused to be drawn
Van Dijk 37, Bajcetic 81), Brentford 2 on whether his side were in I can’t control that. break and everything that has gone England, but Rodgers says the
(Janelt 15, Toney 54) Tottenham 2 (Kane the Premier League title “The only think we need to be into to preparing (for) this game. playmaker is not close to a return.
65, Hojbjerg 71), Crystal Palace 0 race after their 3-0 win at Leicester.
Fulham 3 (De Cordova-Reid 31, Ream 71, mindful of internally is just focus on “To start in the manner we did was He explained: “Sadly he is not
Mitrovic 80), Everton 1 (Mina 7) Wolves 2 The Magpies moved up to second what we can control and our own hugely important. Credit to the near to playing yet he was out to the
(Podence 22, Ait-Nouri 90+5), Leicester 0 in the table after a sixth successive thoughts and actions and how we players for how they have attacked grass this morning, but he was still
Newcastle 3 (Wood 3-pen, Almiron 7, win, which came thanks to a stunning train and how we prepare. their game. We scored some very feeling pain in his knee. I’ll speak to
Joelinton 32), Southampton 1 (Ward- first half hour at the King Power good goals and the general mentality the medical team in the morning and
Prowse 73) Brighton 3 (Lallana 14, Stadium. “And not look too far ahead and of the group was very, very good after see what the timeline on it might be.
Perraud 35-og, March 56), Arsenal 3 (Saka not listen to too much news and the break.
53, Martinelli 58, Nketiah 69) West Ham 1 Chris Wood’s penalty and a media and just focus on our training “It’s a different part of a knee, he
(Benrahma 27-pen). sublime Miguel Almiron strike put and make sure we focus on it game by “Today was a big test for us and has had it around the back of the
them 2-0 up after only seven minutes, game. (I’m) delighted (with) how the players knee, now he is feeling it around the
Arsenal P W D L F A Pts with Joelinton adding a third in the started.” front part. I need to listen to experts
15 13 1 1 36 12 40 32nd minute. “This is the toughest League in the and the medical people on this and
Newcastle 16 9 6 1 32 11 33 world for a reason and our opposition Leicester, whose defending was a take it from there.
Man City 14 10 2 2 40 14 32 It has been a brilliant start to the no doubt will be watching us and throwback to their dismal start to the
Tottenham 16 9 3 4 33 23 30 campaign for the Magpies and the preparing for us, so we have to be season, were without James “This has come indirectly from
Man Utd 14 8 2 4 20 20 26 Newcastle fans, who have been ready.” Maddison and boss Brendan Rodgers maybe having issues while he was
Liverpool 15 7 4 4 31 18 25 starved of success over the years, are says his knee injury has worsened away, he is just feeling something on
Brighton 15 7 3 5 26 20 24 understandably beginning to dream On the performance, Howe since his return from the World Cup. the front of his knee that the medics
Fulham 16 6 4 6 27 26 22 of ending their long wait for added: “I’d say the performance was are just trying to get to the bottom of.”
Chelsea 14 6 3 5 17 17 21 silverware. up there when you consider the Maddison was managing the issue – The Independent
Brentford 16 4 8 4 25 27 20 opposition and the game and the in Qatar, where he did not feature for
Crystal Palace 15 5 4 6 15 21 19 “My attitude won’t change to that,”
Aston Villa 16 5 3 8 17 25 18 he said. “I have no problems with the
Leicester 16 5 2 9 25 28 17 supporters dreaming and talking and
speculating about what we can
achieve and no doubt the media will,
Bournemouth 15 4 4 7 18 32 16 Newcastle United’s Miguel Almiron (centre) in action with Leicester City’s Jamie
Leeds 14 4 3 7 22 26 15 Vardy (right) during the English Premier League match yesterday. – REUTERSPIX
West Ham 16 4 2 10 13 20 14
Everton 16 3 5 8 12 19 14
Wolves 16 3 4 9 10 25 13
Nottm Forest 15 3 4 8 11 30 13
809/22 27/12/2022
Southampton 16 3 3 10 14 30 12 6944
4476
CHAMPIONSHIP: Bristol City 0 West 6224
Brom 2, Cardiff 0 QPR 0, Hull 1 Blackpool
1, Middlesbrough 4 Wigan 1, Preston 1 8663 9856 7428 7845
Huddersfield 2, Rotherham 2 Stoke 2, 0033 4793 3090 9478
Sheffield Utd 3 Coventry 1, Sunderland 9004 4156 7038 8291
2 Blackburn 1, Watford 0 Millwall 2, 1281 8106 4150 2464
Luton 2 Norwich 1. 7168 9788 7143 0644
TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts
Burnley 23 13 8 2 46 24 47
Sheff Utd 24 14 5 5 41 21 47
Blackburn 24 13 0 11 28 28 39
Watford 24 10 7 7 30 24 37
Norwich 24 10 5 9 31 27 35
Spotlight on Lamps RM 3,176,569.51
as Toffees melt
6944 + 4476 6944 + 6224
FRANK LAMPARD said the last minute goal 4476 + 6944 4476 + 6224
Everton conceded in the club’s 2-1 defeat to 6224 + 6944 6224 + 4476
Wolverhampton Wanderers does not change
his largely positive view of yesterday’s RM 100,000.00
performance.
The Blues boss said he was pleased with
the effort and energy of his players and
thought they displayed enough quality to
have emerged with three points.
But he accepted missed chances cost
Everton dear and reiterated it was his priority
to address that in the January transfer
window.
They have scored just 12 times in 16 Lopetegui guarded as Wolves 01 04 08 12 14 26 30 34
matches and with striker Dominic Calvert- climb off bottom 16 20
Lewin still out, it is a major worry for the
Toffees boss.
“I thought we played a pretty good
game, I thought we were the better team
and had relative control in the big parts of
the game in terms of possession and █ CARL MARKHAM He said: “We knew it was a hard task
chances,” Lampard said. NEW Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui is not against a good team but they have suffered a
“Unfortunately, if you are not fooled by their late 2-1 victory over Everton goal and have shown a good mentality and
clinical those things can happen and insists he and his players can only allow didn’t think about it and continued to work
in football and we got hit at the themselves to be happy for a few hours. on this situation.
end.” 447624
The victory piled more Substitute Rayan Ait-Nouri lifted the club “That is going to be very important for us
pressure on the former Chelsea off the bottom of the table with their first and belief in ourselves. We are happy but we 44762 47624
captain, whose side could be in away win since they visited Goodison Park are happy only for today. 4476 7624
the bottom three by the time 447 624
they go to Manchester City in March courtesy of his counter- “We will enjoy it but it is only three points 44 24
at the weekend after attack goal in the fifth minute of and we know we have ahead of us a very
six defeats in the last added time. hard task and we will continue working to 76
eight League Lopetegui, in his first Premier improve a lot of things.
matches. League match having taken
“It (a lack of goals) over from Bruno Lage, was “I am aware of our position. We need good 19
pleased with the way his team news for our fans and we are very happy for
is a concern as if you responded to going behind to our fans and above all for my players as they RM 7,124,583.01
can’t be clinical then Yerry Mina’s seventh-minute have suffered a lot and they have to believe
it is difficult because header with Daniel Podence more in themselves.
it doesn’t give you a scoring the equaliser midway
comforting game of through the first half. “But this is only one step. We are a in a bad RM 136,285.22
Despite the win, the position and we have to be ready tomorrow
being goals ahead. former Spain coach knows morning to start thinking about Manchester
“It’s an obvious one.” – there is plenty of work still to United.
The Independent/ Lampard do.
“We have to enjoy our victory but we have
Agencies not done anything yet.
“When we are win we are happy for two
or three hours, no more.” – The Independent
QUOTE OF THE DAY
WEDNESDAY • DECEMBER 28, 2022 Personally, about Harry (Kane) I have zero
doubt about his mentality, about the way he
Arsenal’s Eddie approaches every training session. For Harry he’s facing
Nketiah (left) a strange situation. He had a really good World Cup and
celebrates after also the team played to the quarterfinal… If you are
scoring his team third strong mentally you move on and Harry did this.”
goal during the
English Premier Tottenham manage Antonio Conte
League match against
West Ham United at Klopp wants
the Emirates Stadium Reds to be
yesterday. – AFPPIX pain in the
rear for rivals
█ NICK MASHITER
Perfect timing JURGEN KLOPP vowed Liverpool will be a “pain in
█ RACHEL STEINBERG Arteta happy Gunners put on show for the backside” in the race for the Champions
ex-boss Wenger on return to the Emirates League.
MIKEL ARTETA hopes Arsene
Wenger’s first trip back to the Former Arsenal Stefan Bajcetic’s first goal wrapped up a 3-1 win
Emirates since leaving the club in manager Arsene at Aston Villa on Boxing Day after first-half efforts
2018 was the first of many future Wenger in the from Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.
visits by the former Arsenal boss. stands during
the match Ollie Watkins pulled one back after the break
Wenger’s appearance capped a brilliant between Arsenal but Villa missed a hatful of chances – with Watkins
Boxing Day for the Gunners faithful who and West Ham. and Leon Bailey guilty.
watched their side complete a 3-1 comeback to – REUTERSPIX
beat struggling West Ham. Liverpool remain sixth in the Premier League
ball to the 23-year-old, who neatly pivoted to him and be around the team. but closed the gap on Tottenham in fourth to five
“There’s only one Arsene Wenger” erupted around his marker before firing into the bottom “So, yeah, he picked the right moment, a points and Klopp knows what they must do.
from the stands after Gabriel Martinelli pulled corner as the elated fans chanted his name.
the hosts ahead in the second half en route to really special day because Boxing Day is a “We have to be the pain in the backside for
the hosts’ 10th straight top-flight home victory, “It was a very typical Eddie Nketiah goal. He beautiful day to play football and I thought the everyone. We are not in the best position, there is
equalling their all-time record. showed his strength, quality and timing, the performance was at the level today that we distance between us and other teams, we know
composure of the finish. For me, it was an deserve, and hopefully he will like it.” that,” he said.
“No, the players didn’t know,” said the outstanding performance from him,” the
current Gunners boss, who was also exalted Gunners’ boss said. West Ham boss David Moyes let out his “The first two or three are maybe too far away. If
with a chant of his own. frustration after a “soft” second half display at they win all their games we have no chance.
“You could feel in the last few games he’d the Emirates.
“We wanted to keep it quiet and allow that been trying but didn’t score, even in friendlies, “We have to do our part and it means winning
space for Arsene. A very special day, thank you but he has the capacity to do that. We see it He said: “We showed some good reliance football games. It must be the target, to qualify for
so much to him for coming. every day in training, and that will give him and we were resolute in the first half. the Champions League.
confidence.”
“Hopefully walking through the building “We did things we are actually quite good at “It was a top performance, a difficult game. We
he’s going to feel everything that he left here as Arteta had not yet spoken to his predecessor and have been over the last few years that we had an exceptional first half even when Aston Villa
well. as he addressed the media and admitted the can be tough and hard to beat. We did that but were good, I like what I saw.
victory, which extended his side’s Premier we didn’t do that in the second half.
“His presence is something that has to be League lead to seven points, was an ideal “We knew if we told the boys at halftime where
very, very attached to this football club so thank conversation starter. “Arsenal played well in the first half, we could go better, the only problem in the
(him) for doing that because it means a lot for probably played as well in the first half as they second half was a little bit the last step and Aston
everybody at the club. “Obviously it’s great,” he added. “Winning, did in the second half but we get soft in the Villa was pushing hard.
my mood, it’s going to be much better to speak second half and gave them opportunities to
“I’ve been involved in the process (of score.” – The Independent “We have to go through difficult moments (but)
bringing him) but it’s about him, the timing he we got three points and that’s the best way to get
needed to make that step and hopefully he’s closer. As long as we can see them we will fight.
going to leave here and be willing to spend
more time with us and be around us because he “Aston Villa were lucky as well we didn’t finish
is such an influence. the situations off. We deserved the three points.”
“For me personally, in my career, the way I Watkins failed to beat Alisson Becker inside the
see the game but as well for this football club.” opening minute and that set the tone for Villa’s
woeful finishing.
Arsenal threatened throughout the first half,
dominating with 72% of the possession, but They were made to pay after five minutes when
were frustrated as Said Benrahma’s spot-kick Salah capped a slick move – tapping in Andy
was the only goal at the break. Robertson’s cross following Trent Alexander-
Arnold’s sumptuous pass.
The Gunners regrouped and Bukayo Saka
struck the equaliser eight minutes after the Watkins and Bailey squandered fine openings
restart before Martinelli fired Arsenal ahead. and Joel Matip had a goal disallowed for offside
during a hectic half before Van Dijk drilled in, via
Eddie Nketiah, starting his first game for Ezri Konsa’s hip, eight minutes before the break.
Arsenal in place of the injured Gabriel Jesus,
had enjoyed the vocal support of the Emirates Darwin Nunez – who had already headed over
crowd from kickoff and they were finally and volleyed at Robin Olsen after Konsa’s mistake –
rewarded when Martin Odegaard tapped the still had time to shoot at the goalkeeper but Villa
emerged after half-time fighting.
Watkins had a goal ruled out for offside seconds
after the re-start before finally taking a chance,
heading in Douglas Luiz’s cross just before the
hour.
It should have set up a grandstand finish but,
after Salah and Nunez missed, Liverpool ended
Villa’s hopes with nine minutes left.
Nunez kept the ball and his cross was turned
out by Olsen but only to Bajcetic who rounded the
goalkeeper and shot through Tyrone Mings’ legs
two minutes after coming off the bench.
Villa boss Unai Emery said: “We had a great
effort and the result was so hard for us. We created
chances, we didn’t score and to concede two goals
from set-pieces is not normal because we are
working hard on them.
“The second half we needed to keep (to) our
game plan and try to get chances to score and
opportunities to come back. We played for 30
minutes very well. We scored, we created chances
and we were better than them, I think.
“Their transition is amazing… they have players
fast like Salah and Nunez and they created a few
chances. Our goalkeeper saved one or two but
they scored the third and the match was finished.”
“I want to be optimistic, I am disappointed and
a bit angry but the attitude was amazing from the
players.
“I know we have to learn and add more things,
tactically, for the step up I want to do.” – The
Independent/Agencies
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]
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