The Sun-271123 Monday 13 Jamadilawal 1445H

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1 MONDAY NOV 27, 2023 SCAN ME No. 8402 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Vincent Tan honoured for property achievements Report on — page 5 Malaysia facing effects of male overpopulation, which has significant implications for societal issues, says academic. PropertyGuru Asia bestows Berjaya Group founder and adviser with 2023 Malaysia Real Estate Personality of the Year Award. Gender imbalance Report on — page 3 ‘One standard halal logo good enough’ Jakim says Malaysian Islamic Consumer Association proposal to have multiple colour-coded options unnecessary. Report on — page 4 Prime Minister says Rahmah Cash Aid to be increased if subsidy rationalisation affects more people, especially the poor. Report on — page 2 SOLIDARITY BOAT RALLY ... Some of the 200 fishermen in 50 vessels taking part in a river convoy in Kuala Selangor yesterday to show support for Palestinians. – BERNAMAPIC Anwar’s assurance on financial support

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 2 Help students achieve success, Sultan tells UPM grads KUALA LUMPUR: The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has called on Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) graduates to work in synergy with their alma mater and contribute to the development of students at the institution. Sultan Sharafuddin, who is also UPM chancellor, said in a statement the move is to show gratitude for the sacrifices made by the university community in helping them to achieve success. “In addition to contributing to the development of UPM students, graduates can also help UPM to achieve excellence,” Sultan Sharafuddin said at session 2 of the university’s 47th Convocation at the Great Hall, Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Cultural and Arts Centre, UPM here on Saturday. The Ruler also said the graduates must excel not only in the academic field but also holistically and be balanced in all aspects. He urged UPM to continue carrying out its functions and role towards society in line with the country’s aspiration to become a highly civilised nation. “I believe that UPM’s greatest contribution in developing the country is producing outstanding graduates,” he said. He also reminded that the field of agriculture will continue to be the main stay of UPM and urged the institution to play a crucial role in the sector’s excellence. UPM has implemented a modern agricultural training programme under the Agricultural Industry Excellence Centre IP-Intan@UPM, involving the community and graduates, as well as the Agricultural Youth Development Project and the Putra-Perhebat Agropreneurship programme. Sultan Sharafuddin also called on graduates to persevere in their career of choice and to carry out their responsibilities with honesty, while emphasising the need for decorum in communication on social media. – Bernama Assurance on Rahmah cash initiative PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim gave an assurance yesterday that the Rahmah Cash Aid would be increased to cover Malaysians if the subsidy rationalisation move affects the people, especially the poor. Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the floating of chicken prices had proven effective since it was implemented on Nov 1, and he was convinced that the rationalisation of subsidies would not affect 90% of Malaysians. The PKR president also said the retraction of subsidies will involve only 10% of the “super rich” and the 3.5 million foreign nationals who are enjoying the government subsidies so far. “The use of subsidies in 2022 Anwar having a discussion with PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail at the congress. – BERNAMAPIC oAid will be increased if subsidy rationalisation affects Malaysians, says Anwar totalled RM77.3 billion, covering petrol, diesel, liquified natural gas, cooking oil, flour and electricity, making it the highest total of subsidies in history. “For 2023, subsidies will exceed RM81 billion if not tackled immediately. “A targeted subsidy approach will be taken, but the government will have a more effective safety net for the poor,” he said in his keynote address at the 2023 PKR annual national congress at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here last night. The two-day congress, which began on Saturday, carries the theme Memaknai Reformasi, Menjulang Madani (Fulfilling Reforms, Upholding Madani) and was attended by 2,734 party delegates and 1,500 observers, unity government coalition party leaders and foreign diplomatic representatives, Bernama reported. A new approach taken by the unity government in steering the country was to ensure that Malaysia would become a strong, great and respected country in the region and would be known globally as a country that could manage its economy well, he said. Such efforts are elaborated in the Madani Economy: Empowering the People, the National Energy Transition Plan, the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, digital transformation and artificial intelligence and in both the Madani budgets as well as the 12th Malaysia Plan mid-term review. “We have placed policies to drive the (national) economy but it’s directed towards people’s main concerns, such as issues relating to dilapidated schools and clinics as well as to eradicate hardcore poverty,” he said. Anwar also said the focus will be given to people’s housing and the civil service as well as empowering villages, rural areas, long houses and urban housing with allocations of RM50,000 to RM100,000. “We are committed to changing the economic development approach so as not to sideline the people’s interests at lower levels.” He added that investors were showing confidence in the unity government with more companies from foreign countries such as China and Germany investing in the country as well as new investments from the 2023 Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting that he attended recently. “Until September 2023, we have managed to attract and approve investments worth RM132.6 billion. “The unity government took over the country with an RM1.5 trillion debt and a ballooning 5.6% deficit,” he said. PM thanks political partners for unwavering loyalty PUTRAJAYA: Political parties that form the unity government have firmly rejected attempts by the Opposition to menebuk atap (pinch support) in efforts to topple the government, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar, who is also PKR president, said political party leaders remain steadfast in the principles and good governance they have upheld for the past year. “A year has passed. In the early stages, there was uncertainty because there were always attempts of tebuk atap (backdoor manoeuvring), and the loyalty of our friends was tested. “I am expressing my appreciation because despite their loyalty and solidarity being tested, including with offers of becoming prime minister, they remain our partners,” he said at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre on Saturday. He added that he appreciated that the leaders of component parties in the unity government and the Cabinet have stayed loyal to ensure that the government would remain inclusive and represent all races and regions. “Various predictions and allegations have been made. I wish to stress again that during early negotiations (on the unity government), the emphasis was on principles and direction of the country, good governance, fighting corruption and driving economic growth. “This is a matter of policy and I thank our partners for staying true to this principle,” he said. Anwar, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, said the unity government would not be hasty in implementing the reform agenda because it drew lessons from world history and PH’s experience in 2018. He said the government needs to be prudent and wise in assessing its capabilities because not all of the country’s problems could be solved within a year. Anwar was sworn in as the 10th prime minister on Nov 24 last year. He also stressed that the unity government will not allow the country to be divided in the name of religion and race and will not compromise with those who play up racial issues, including meritocracy, as the unity government is committed to safeguarding the welfare of all races. Also present at the congress were Barisan Nasional secretary-general Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, Amanah president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, DAP secretarygeneral Anthony Loke, Gabungan Rakyat Sabah chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Gabungan Parti Sarawak secretary-general Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. – Bernama Only RM40m ‘wang ihsan’ for Kelantan KOTA BHARU: The Kelantan government only received RM40 million in wang ihsan (compassionate fund) from the federal government this year, compared with RM331.38 million last year, the state assembly was told yesterday. Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud was replying to Rozi Mohamad (PAS-Tendong) regarding the payment of wang ihsan to the state by the federal government since 2020. “For payment of wang ihsan, we received RM190.85 million in 2020, RM201.04 million in 2021 and RM331.38 million last year. This year, we only received RM40 million so far. “The state government is negotiating to get the wang ihsan payment. “Let’s together pray that the remaining wang ihsan will be paid by the end of this year,” he added. In response to a supplementary question from Azhar Salleh (PAS-Chondong Island) regarding follow-up actions and efforts taken by the state government to get the balance of the wang ihsan payment, Mohd Nassuruddin said the matter had been discussed with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the response was positive. – Bernama New opposition leader in Kedah ALOR SETAR: Sidam assemblyman Bau Wong Bau Ek was named the new opposition leader for the Kedah state assembly at the second meeting of the 15th Kedah State Legislative Assembly at Wisma Darul Aman yesterday. Assembly Speaker Zubir Ahmad announced the appointment of Bau Wong from PKR to replace former Suka Menanti assemblyman Datuk Zamri Yusuf. Bau Wong, 56, is one of the three Pakatan Harapan assemblymen elected to the 33-member state assembly in the state election in August. He won with a majority of 954 votes after garnering 21,859 votes, defeating Perikatan Nasional candidate Juliana Abdul Ghani, who obtained 20,905 votes. Bau Wong was a the special officer to Sungai Petani MP Tan Sri Johari Abdul from 2018 to 2022 and then continued the same service to Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, who won the parliamentary seat in the 15th general election. On July 28, he resigned to contest in the state election. – Bernama

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 3 KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Group founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan was honoured with the 2023 Malaysia Real Estate Personality of the Year Award at the 10th PropertyGuru Asia Awards Malaysia on Friday. In accepting the award, Tan said he was initially surprised when informed that he was picked to receive the prestigious accolade. “As a ‘Jack of All Trades and Master of None’, I am humbled to receive this award. “However, I wish to dedicate it to my team at Berjaya and Yayasan My First Home, for their unwavering commitment, expertise and passion in providing affordable homes for the lower-income group.” Tan also extended his appreciation to business partners who have shared the vision of creating a bigger and better social housing sector in the Malaysian real estate industry. “Their steadfast dedication and spirit of cooperation have been crucial to the realisation of groundbreaking initiatives that go beyond simple construction. “Together, we sought to build i n c l u s i v e , s u s t a i n a b l e communities that improve the lives of the people,” he said. In his speech, Tan lauded Singapore’s commendable approach to home ownership, in which nearly 80% of the population reside in HDB flats or apartments, hailing it as a global model. While also acknowledging Malaysia’s success in home ownership, he shed light on the challenges Berjaya founder receives ‘Real Estate Personality’ award oRecognition not only honours past achievements but also signals promising future of continued excellence and innovation: PropertyGuru █ BYRAVEEN AINGARAN [email protected] faced by the lower-income segment, especially the B40 group who earn RM4,000 and less each month. Tan emphasised his belief in the potential and growth opportunities offered by the thriving Malaysian real estate market. “I see it as an attractive investment destination, driven by a strong economy and a growing population with an increasing demand for housing,” he said. Tan highlighted the constant struggle of individuals such as waiters, drivers, policemen and soldiers to own a home, even with the progress that has been made to provide public housing. “I urge the private sector, affluent middle class and property owners in higher value price ranges to collectively support those who are less privileged,” he said. Emphasising the collective effort needed to address homelessness in Malaysia, Tan underscored the societal benefits of widespread home ownership, leading to a happier and less stressful population. He envisions expanding the real estate portfolio and undertaking innovative and sustainable projects. In this pursuit of expansion, Tan said: “I foresee a diverse array of real estate ventures that transcend traditional boundaries.” “These include not only residential developments that cater to the evolving needs of the market but also commercial and mixeduse projects that contribute to the holistic growth of urban landscapes,” he said. Tan expressed particular passion for projects promoting environmental sustainability, community development and urban regeneration. “Some of our upcoming launches include various residential developments and projects in Penang, as well as ventures in the hospitality sector, including luxury resorts and hotels in Iceland and Japan.” At 71 years old and having spent his entire life in the country, Tan expressed commitment to the future and encouraged everyone to work together to make Malaysia a better place for all. PropertyGuru said Tan’s recognition for the award is a testament to his outstanding contributions and leadership in the Malaysian real estate sector. “The award not only honours his past achievements but also signals a promising future of continued excellence and innovation in real estate development.” At the event, PropertyGuru also presented awards to 21 other property companies under various categories. The awards were handed out in collaboration with iProperty.com.my. Indians in Kemaman hoping for ‘vocal’ MP CHUKAI: They are not big in number, but the Indian community in Kemaman wants the candidate elected as their parliamentary representative in the coming by-election to be vocal enough to raise the voice of the minority at the federal level. They believe they have equal rights and opportunities, and play an important role in helping to develop the area. An voter in the constituency, E. Navin, 24, who is going to the polls for the third time in a year, expressed hope that the person to be elected as the Kemaman MP would discharge the responsibilities entrusted on him well and to take care of every constituent, regardless of religion or race. “The Indian community in Kemaman has assimilated well with the Malays. We have no problems. We understand and respect one another’s way of life. “We hope the MP has a noble heart and looks into the welfare of the constituents by treating them equally,” said the Universiti Malaya Bachelor of International and Strategic Studies graduate. Of a total of 141,790 eligible voters in the by-election, about 800 are Indian. The Kemaman by-election, called following the Sept 26 decision by the Terengganu Elections Court to nullify PAS candidate Che Alias Hamid’s victory in the 15th general election, will feature a straight fight between Barisan Nasional candidate Jen (Rtd) Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor and Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar of PAS. Navin said one of the main needs of the Indian community in Kemaman is a community hall as a venue for them to carry out social, welfare and spiritual activities. “There is only one temple in Kemaman, which is the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple on Jalan Air Puteh. But not everything can be done in the temple because it is a house of worship.” – Bernama Tan underscored the societal benefits of widespread home ownership, adding that it would lead to a happier and less stressful population. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN RM9.7m for Orang Asli projects in Johor ISKANDAR PUTERI: A total of RM9.72 million has been allocated to implement development projects in Orang Asli villages in Johor, the state legislative assembly sitting was told yesterday. State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Zahari Sarip said of the amount, RM9.26 million was from the federal government, while the rest was from the state government. According to him, the projects include building basic infrastructure, social amenities and facilities such as treated water, as well as empowerment of administrative institutions at the village level and human capital development. “The state government and the federal government are committed to ensuring various aspects of development can be implemented to ensure the Orang Asli community in the state continues to progress.” He was replying to questions from Tan Chong (BN-Bekok) and Hahasrin Hashim (BNPanti) regarding state government efforts to ensure the Orang Asli community in the state do not lag as development progresses. Johor has 60 Orang Asli settlements, with over 18,000 residents. On a separate matter, State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Human Resources Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said the state government is committed to boosting job opportunities for the people, especially graduates in Johor. Mohd Hairi (BN-Larkin) said efforts were carried out continuously through the Johor Human Capital Strategic Unit by organising a series of Gerak Kerjaya Johor programmes this year. – Bernama RM2,000 for Kedah civil servants ALOR SETAR: The Kedah government yesterday announced special financial assistance of RM2,000 to 5,600 state civil servants. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor made the announcement when tabling the Kedah Budget 2024 at Wisma Darul Aman. “The state government appreciates their sacrifices and contributions. A sum of RM2,000 has been agreed to be given as special financial assistance to them and members of the state administration, involving RM10.8 million. “Payment for this special financial assistance will be made partially in December and the rest in March,” he said. Apart from that, a special one-off assistance will also be given to state-appointed imams, village council chairmen and secretaries in March as Aidilfitri assistance. “This one-off special aid amount will be determined later,” he said. – Bernama ‘Terengganu never sidelined by govt’ CHUKAI: The unity government has never neglected Terengganu and continued to channel aid directly to its people although the state is run by the Opposition. Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said the people in the state continued to enjoy federal aid, including the Rahmah Cash Aid totalling RM241.8 million, distributed to 390,210 Terengganu residents this year. “Terengganu farmers also received aid, including through Bernas or the Aidilfitri special aid to 4,483 farmers totalling RM4.6 million, along with welfare aid of RM1.28 million to 23,620 people. “Terengganu enjoyed a lot of assistance. We want to continue this and it will be good if there are other types of aid like for rural roads, house repairs, classroom upgrades and townships and traditional villages.” – Bernama

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 4 Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ No need for multiple halal logos, says Jakim oMove may create confusion among consumers and division within Muslim community: Expert KUALA LUMPUR: A recent proposal by the Malaysian Islamic Consumer Association (PPIM) to have colour-coded halal logos is unnecessary, said the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). “A single halal logo provides clarity, convenience and uniformity among Muslim and non-Muslim consumers and businesses, so there is no need for multiple, colour-coded ones,” its spokesman said. PPIM has called for halal logos to be classified into several types according to colour, such as green for companies owned by Muslims, orange for companies owned by Muslims in partnership with non-Muslims, and red for companies owned by non-Muslims. It first made its proposal on social media in July 2020, before the matter went viral again recently on TikTok and X. In a statement to theSun, the Halal Management Division said while Jakim maintains that colour coding of halal logos is unnecessary, it does not oppose PPIM’s proposal, adding that it is more important to maintain a rigorous and consistent halal certification system. “Jakim assesses each stage of the halal process to ensure strict compliance with Islamic principles, hygiene standards and specific requirements. “As a federal government agency that administers Islamic affairs in the country, our halal certification is recognised locally and abroad.” The spokesman said Jakim acknowledges that PPIM’s suggestion promotes Muslim products and recognises it as a commendable endeavour to foster economic growth among Muslim entrepreneurs, adding that it also encourages the use of products and services produced by them. “However, the government through Jakim and the State Islamic Religious Council have created and implemented an integrated halal assessment mechanism. “The halal industry can use different coloured logos that match the colour of the packaging used for each product. “Companies must also ensure that the logo specifications meet the criteria set under clause 17(6)j of the Malaysian Halal Certification Procedure Manual (Domestic) 2020. “The division hopes the issue of multiple logos will come to an end. We call on consumers to trust our procedures and management of halal certification. “Jakim has also received ISO/IEC 17065 accreditation from the Standard and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia, so our procedures are implemented strictly.” International Islamic University Malaysia Political Science Department head Assoc Prof Dr Syaza Shukri said a single halal logo is sufficient for the halal industry. “This proposal could have negative consequences because, from a religious perspective, halal is halal, and there is no need for colour-coded logos based on the ownership of the companies. “A single, universally recognised halal logo is more beneficial and sufficient for consumers and businesses.” She said matters like this could unnecessarily escalate and cause consumer confusion, potential divisions within the Muslim community and the alienation of non-Muslim consumers. “The proposal to have multiple halal logos could create unnecessary complexity and undermine the unity and inclusivity of the halal marketplace. “For no reason, it would plant the idea that Muslims and non-Muslims cannot shop at the same venue in the country. “It could also come to a point at which it is no longer about the halal certification but a question of segregation by race,” she said. Schoolchildren relieved over toilet upgrades MELAKA: Students are thrilled with their “hotel-like” toilet facilities, thanks to the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) ongoing initiative to upgrade toilets at national schools nationwide. A pupil of SK Padang Temu, Mumtaz Nur Ain Muhammad Amir, 11, said some toilets at her school was previously closed due to clogged sewer lines and broken pipes. But after the upgrade, she and her friends are excited about taking a toilet break because the dread has been removed with a refreshing makeover. “This new toilets is very pleasant, and I am grateful for the efforts to make us feel comfortable, and we have a greater reason to keep the toilets clean,” said the Year Five pupil. Her classmate Sofia Indah Irdina Shahrizan said she was happy about the newly upgraded school toilets that is clean and comfortable to use. “As a school prefect, I will make sure students who are on duty (to clean the toilets) always follow the set time to ensure it is always clean,” she said. Muhammad Rayyan Nafiz Hesham, 12, from SK Telok Mas, believes the toilet makeover will encourage students at his school to be more responsible when using the facilities. According to the Year Six pupil, the toilets at his school were previously quite filthy, and many of the fixtures were broken, making it unpleasant to use. SK Duyong pupil Muhammad Alif Imran Abdullah, 12, was pleased that the toilets at his school now have a fresh look and new features, which he described as being very comfortable to use as there are no unpleasant odours. “To ensure it is always in good condition, we will remind one another to always keep the toilets clean and follow the rules,” he said. Nur Syahira Adnan, 16, of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bukit Baru, said she and her friends no longer had to resist the urge to use toilets at their school due to its unpleasant condition now that the facility has been spruced up. – Bernama █ BYQALIF ZUHAIR [email protected] Second Sarawak subfertility clinic in the pipeline KUCHING: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development will hold discussions with the Sarawak government on the establishment of a subfertility laboratory at the National Population and Family Development Board in Kuching. Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said there was a need to establish another subfertility laboratory in Sarawak, as the existing facility in the general hospital is insufficient to cater to the demand for subfertility treatment services in the state. “I need to talk to the state government first to get approval, and maybe if the state government wants to make some contribution (funds). The ministry will bear other costs. “The building is already there and is currently being renovated. It’s just that we don’t have a (subfertility) laboratory yet. I will discuss the matter, including adding a laboratory as one of the components in the building, which will involve a lot of cost,” she said after officiating at a National Family Month event at the Darul Hana Mosque yesterday. – Bernama

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 5 Attractions at Madani anniversary event KUALA LUMPUR: Various activities have been drawn up for the “One Year with Madani Government” event that will be held from Dec 8 to 10 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium, said Malaysia Productivity Corporation deputy director-general Dr Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam yesterday. “It has been categorised into three areas – the main tent, main stage and outdoors. Exhibitions and services by the government, through the participation of 24 ministries, will be provided in the main tent. “The outdoors section will display more exhibitions and telco service offers.” Registration for public institutions of higher learning, a programme for entrepreneurs that involves business opportunities and coordination, as well as 300 stalls conducting Rahmah and Madani sales are also expected. Mohamad said the event highlight will comprise a helmet exchange, in which over 3,000 new helmets would be presented to target groups such as food delivery riders. He also said the corporation will display information on MyMudah and its achievements, an initiative that was introduced to reduce bureaucracy faced by traders. “In line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s aspirations under the Madani Economy to be in the top 12 of the Global Competitiveness Index, we are implementing a programme to assist traders in resolving issues.” He said several parking sites have been allocated to provide easier access for the public, adding that visitors may take public transport from preset locations such as Endah Parade, Pavillion Bukit Jalil and Teknologi Park Malaysia. – Bernama Coins issued to mark PKR silver jubilee PUTRAJAYA: PKR has issued commemorative coins to mark the party’s 25th Silver Jubilee Anniversary. Event chairman Wong Chen said party president and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim mooted the idea last month to issue the coins in conjunction with the anniversary on May 4 next year. “Next year marks the 25th anniversary of PKR’s establishment. It is a momentous and significant milestone,” he said yesterday. Wong added that three designs were presented to Anwar and the latter chose to feature his portrait when he delivered his maiden Reformasi speech at the National Mosque on Sept 20, 1998. The coins will be available in two options, namely RM100 and RM120 in silver, and RM500 and RM600 in gold-gilded pewter. – Bernama Johor to present LRT proposal next month ISKANDAR PUTERI: The Johor government will present a working paper on the proposal to implement a light rail transit (LRT) system in the state to the federal government next month. According to state Works, Transportation and Infrastructure Committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, a meeting will be held on Thursday to discuss the proposal. “The meeting, which will involve various agencies, will discuss and refine the proposal. We need to conduct a comprehensive study that accounts for the situation in Johor Bahru City. “After the meeting, the state government will present the paper to the federal government so that the project can be implemented,” he said yesterday. He added that the comprehensive study for the project will involve agencies such as the Johor Public Transport Corporation and Iskandar Regional Development Authority. – Bernama Father’s love knows no bounds IPOH: Police officer Mahmud Talib had to bid goodbye to his car so that his premature son could grow up like any other normal baby. The 32-year-old, who works at the General Operations Force camp in Ulu Kinta, said he was struggling financially in the first three months after his wife Suraya Mohd Ismail, 32, gave birth to their first child Mikail Anaqi on Jan 15, 2020. “The first three months were a real challenge for me. I had to commute to the Permaisuri Bainun Hospital daily and prepare expenses for milk and medical treatments. “That’s why I was determined to sell the car to cover expenses for my son,” he said at the state-level World Prematurity Day celebrations yesterday. World Prematurity Day is observed on Nov 17 worldwide to raise awareness about preterm births and the issues posed to parents. Mahmud added that while he recognised the various challenges he faced in raising his son, they were lessons that brought him closer to Allah. Suraya, who is also in the police force, said she gave birth to Mikail Anaqi, who weighed only 1kg and was the size of two adult palms. She said she was only 27 weeks pregnant, but had to have a preterm birth because of high blood pressure. According to Suraya, the delivery went smoothly. However, she was told that her baby had lung and brain complications. “Sometimes, I asked the doctor for permission to use the kangaroo care method with my son, who was placed in an incubator. This means skin-to-skin contact between infant and parent, which helps to ensure the child’s heartbeat and breathing remain normal.” She added that he is now an active toddler, not unlike other children his age. – Bernama Hidden implications of male overpopulation PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is grappling with male overpopulation, which has significant implications for societal issues, said Universiti Malaysia Kelantan sociology and anthropology senior lecturer Dr Suraya Sukri. “It could lead to cultural shifts, family structure changes, social turmoil and economic implications, which pose challenges to education, careers, government policies, cultural evolution and adaptations to the changing demographic landscape.” In a 2020 census, the Statistics Department reported that the male population outnumbered females at a ratio of 110:100. The department said there were 17 million males and 15.7 million females last year, adding that the gender ratio among citizens remained at around 103 males for every 100 females, while it was 227 males for every 100 females among non-citizens. The higher number of males is primarily attributed to the proportion of males among non-citizens. Considering this, Suraya said the gender imbalance may contribute to social issues such as crime and unrest. “There is a correlation between gender imbalances and certain types of crime, as well as social unrest due to frustration among oSituation may lead to competition for resources, gender discrimination and economic effects: Expert █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] the male population. “Gender-based discrimination and violence may also become more prevalent in societies with a surplus of males.” Suraya said in terms of economic consequences, this phenomenon might lead to workforce imbalances and subsequent social and economic inequalities. “Certain industries or regions may see a higher concentration of males, affecting the distribution of resources and opportunities. “This increased competition for resources such as jobs, housing and education could also put pressure on the job market and educational institutions, potentially impacting the quality of life for both genders.” Suraya said to overcome this, the government may face challenges in formulating policies to address the social and economic impacts of the gender imbalance. “Effective strategies to balance gender disparities and promote equality can be complex and require comprehensive approaches,” she said. Supporting the call, clinical psychologist Dr Ainul Azreen Muhammad Johari said the phenomenon could impact one’s mental health. “Individuals facing difficulty in finding employment or establishing stable relationships may experience increased stress and mental health challenges.” She said it may become difficult to find suitable partners due to the higher number of males. This could impact marriage rates and the family formation, with implications for social stability and individual well-being. “It could exacerbate societal expectations and pressures on men and lead to changes in traditional family structures.” Ainul Azreen also said social integration issues could arise from increased migration and mobility as people move in search of better opportunities, which could affect community cohesion and stability. On gender imbalance, she said the abortion of female foetuses could also be a factor. “The world at large has a cultural preference for male children and sex-selective practices. Access to advanced technology for gender determination could lead to selective abortions, particularly for female foetuses. She said the government needs to address male overpopulation to ensure a more equitable society. “The government should take immediate action on private clinics that offer (such) abortions. This way, we can promote gender equality and ensure equal opportunities for all citizens.” Ainul Azreen said to dispel preconceptions, it is critical to educate the public about the contributions and advantages that women provide to society. “It is essential to invest in initiatives aimed at challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes to foster a more inclusive society.” CHARITY GROOMING ... Members of Maruthuvar Sangam, an association of barbers in Penang, providing free haircuts to the underprivileged at the Goddess of Mercy Temple in George Town yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 6 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper ‘Creative’ drug rings give cops hard time oOnline transactions, abandoned cars used as storage sites complicate link factor in evidence gathering KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts by police to eradicate drug trafficking are becoming more challenging, as syndicates are using increasingly creative methods. Of late, there have been several raids in which police seized drugs hidden in cars parked on the roadside that were used as storage sites. Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) director Datuk Seri Mohd Kamarudin Md Din said the tactic was used to avoid any meeting between the syndicate, “transporters” and drug buyers. “If these drug buyers and transporters are arrested, they cannot provide information about the syndicate in detail, because they do not know each other as there was no face-to-face meeting.” According to Mohd Kamarudin, it has caused the investigation to be complicated and challenging, due to the element of drug ownership, which is difficult to prove, as in most cases the vehicle, which may be a rented or an abandoned car, does not belong to the individual arrested. Digital technology also allows users to buy drugs online without seeing each other, because the delivery is via a courier service. Mohd Kamarudin said several sites on the Dark Web have been identified as carrying out drug buying and selling activities openly. “Police will continue to carry out intelligence (work) from time to time to ensure that distribution activities through the Dark Web do not develop more widely.” According to Mohd Kamarudin, NCID has seized 19,147.56kg of various types of drugs, and 13,913.44 litres of various types of liquid drugs, during the first 10 months of this year. Also seized were 64,870.73kg of ketum leaves and 49,013.56 litres of ketum water. The total value of the seizures was RM452.40 million. Mohd Kamarudin said NCID always tries to find solutions to ensure that criminals are punished according to existing laws. – Bernama LOOKING SHARP ... Civil Defence Force chief commissioner Datuk Aminurrahim Mohamed inspecting an assembly before a medal and ribbon presentation ceremony in Sandakan yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Voluntary flood relief unit to be set up KOTA TINGGI: The Tenggara parliamentary constituency has taken the initiative to set up a Civil Defence Auxiliary (CDA) disaster voluntary unit to face possible flooding following the arrival of the northeast monsoon. Tenggara MP Manndzri Nasib said the unit, under the Civil Defence Force, will seek the participation of local residents. He said CDA volunteers played a role in assisting evacuees at the temporary relief centres and cleaning residents’ houses after floods. “So far, we have less than 70 CDA volunteers. I hope this number will increase,” he said after launching the unit recently. He added that participation by the residents gives them added value and knowledge to help the flood evacuees. Manndzri said the setting up of the unit is also crucial as Tenggara was also affected by floods last March, which affected thousands who had to be evacuated to 12 relief centres. Meanwhile, the number of flood evacuees in Terengganu dropped, with 621 people from 147 families still housed in 12 relief centres in seven districts as of 8am yesterday compared with 628 from 149 families reported on Saturday night. In Kuala Terengganu, 232 people from 61 families were accommodated in two relief centres, while a relief centre housed 196 people from 43 families in Besut. Elsewhere, in Dungun, 62 people from 12 families are still housed in two relief centres, while 69 people from 18 families are placed in two centres in Marang. Meanwhile, in Kuala Nerus, 33 victims from six families were housed in six relief centres. In Setiu, only 14 people from three families were still in three centres, while 15 people from four families were accommodated at Kampung Labohan community hall in Kemaman. The water levels at main river stations are normal except at the Sungai Nerus in Kampung Bukit and Sungai Setiu at the Permaisuri Bridge which are at an alert level. – Bernama Demolition of illegal houses postponed LABUAN: The demolition of over 500 illegal structures on Sabah Islamic Religious Council land in Kampung Gersik here has been postponed to Feb 28 next year. Labuan MP Datuk Dr Suhaili Abdul Rahman said yesterday the decision is to give affected residents more time to find alternative housing. Suhaili said he had contacted council officials on the matter, emphasising the need for empathy and understanding towards the affected individuals. “I have conveyed the urgency of postponing the demolition to council officials, and they have agreed to extend it until the end of February next year.” He said nearly a thousand affected individuals gathered at Kampung Gersik community hall to meet him on Saturday and share their difficulties in securing affordable rental housing elsewhere. “These people will be homeless overnight if the demolition proceeds, as they have no shelter for their families. “While enforcing the law, it is important to consider the humanitarian aspect too.” Suhaili said almost 100% of the more than 3,000 people residing on the land are Malaysians, many with school-going children. “These families have occupied the land for the past 30 years, the decision to postpone the demolition reflects a balance between enforcing regulations and considering the humanitarian needs of those affected, providing them with an extended timeframe to find alternative housing solutions.” He said the demolition postponement applies solely to the houses still occupied as those already vacated are scheduled for demolition next week. The council had issued a six-month notice to residents of the land, from May 22 to Nov 22. – Bernama Boost to border security mulled SEREMBAN: The Defence Ministry will look into the need to increase security personnel or equipment to tighten control at the border areas to curb transnational smuggling syndicates. Its minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, said yesterday the government, through the 2024 Budget that was announced recently, had allocated huge funds to strengthen border control. “We’ll see the situation whether there is a need for more CCTV, additional members or an electric fence (at the border). We have to discuss with Thailand and Indonesia,” he told reporters. He said this in response to a proposal by the Thai government to build an electric fence equipped with CCTV in the area bordering Malaysia to curb smuggling. Mohamad said the proposed move would curb cross-border crime, especially smuggling, which caused billions of ringgit in losses to Malaysia. – Bernama Boy who fell into drain found dead MALACCA: The body of a two-year-old boy, who was believed to have fallen into a drain at Taman Goodwood in Bukit Palah on Saturday, has been found. Muhammad Danish Mohd Faizal’s body was found by a member of the public at 9.30am yesterday before the authorities were alerted. Malacca Fire and Rescue Department Zone 1 officer Zulkhairani Ramli said yesterday the body was found floating 1.3km from the spot where he was reported to have gone missing. He said the victim was found in a drain, following an 18-hour search. “We received information from the public of an object floating in a drain in the Taman Desa Baru area. “The object was a boy’s body. “The body has been sent to Malacca Hospital for a post-mortem.” The victim’s mother, Nor Amiza Che Kar, 28, said her youngest son, Muhammad Danish Mohd Faizal, and his sibling were playing near the drain, which was full of water due to heavy rains in the afternoon, while she and her husband were selling nasi kerabu nearby. – Bernama

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 7 Philippines, Australia start patrols in South China Sea MANILA: The Philippines and Australia began their first joint sea and air patrols in the South China Sea on Saturday, days after Manila took similar steps with the US as Pacific nations warily eye an increasingly assertive China. The three-day exercises, announced by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on social media, follow discussions by the Philippines and Australia early this year on joint patrols to underscore what they say is their commitment to a rules-based order. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than US$3 trillion (RM14 trillion) of annual ship-borne commerce, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 said China’s oThree-day exercises follow discussions by both countries committed to rules-based order in the area TASTY TREAT ... Monkeys eat fruit during the annual Monkey Festival in Lopburi province, Thailand yesterday. – REUTERSPIC claims had no legal basis. The Philippines is ramping up efforts to counter what it describes as China’s “aggressive activities” in the South China Sea, which has also become a flashpoint for Chinese and US tensions around naval operations. “Australia and the Philippines are firmly committed to peaceful, secure and prosperous region, where sovereignty and agreed rules and norms are respected,” Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said in a joint statement posted by Marcos. “The first joint patrol between the Australian Defence Force and the Armed Forces of the Philippines demonstrates this commitment,” Marles said. The patrols will be carried out in the West Philippine Sea, said Philippine Department of National Defence spokesperson Arsenio Andolong, using Manila’s term for waters in the South China Sea that fall within its exclusive economic zone. The Philippine military said two of its navy vessels and five surveillance aircraft would participate, while Australia would send the frigate Toowoomba and P8-A maritime surveillance aircraft. “This inaugural Maritime Cooperative Activity and those that may follow are a practical manifestation of the growing and deepening strategic and defence partnership between our countries,” Marcos said on X, the platform formerly called Twitter. The Philippines and the US concluded three-day joint sea and air patrols on Thursday, starting in waters near Taiwan, a democratically governed island that China claims as its own, and ending in the West Philippine Sea. China has accused the Philippines of enlisting “foreign forces” to patrol the South China Sea and stirring up trouble. Manila insists the maritime activities are within its rights. – Reuters N. Korea inspects spy satellite photos of ‘target regions’ SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected photos taken by the country’s new spy satellite of “major target regions”, including the South Korean capital of Seoul and cities that host US military bases, state media said on Saturday. Nuclear-armed North Korea launched the satellite on Tuesday, but South Korean defence officials and analysts said its capabilities have not been independently verified. Kim examined photos of Seoul and other cities of Mokpo, Kunsan, Pyeongtaek and Osan, where US and South Korean military bases are located. The photos were taken as the satellite passed over the peninsula on Friday morning, state news agency Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. Kim examined the photos, as well as images of some areas within North Korea, during a visit on Friday to the control centre of the National Aerospace Technology Administration in Pyongyang. On Saturday, Kim visited the control centre once again to examine more photos taken in the morning of different target regions in South Korea: Jinhae, Busan, Ulsan, Pohang, Daegu and Gangneung. One photo showed US aircraft carrier Carl Vinson, which arrived at a port in the South Korean city of Busan on Tuesday, according to KCNA. During the visit, Kim also inspected photos of US Naval Station Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base taken by the satellite as it passed over Hawaii early on Saturday. In a separate commentary carried by KCNA on Saturday, North Korea criticised the US for providing advanced weapons to its “puppets”, saying that even a small spark on the Korean peninsula would result in a global nuclear war. “The US had better ponder over the catastrophic consequences entailed by the arms offer to the puppet forces,” it said. Top diplomats of Japan, South Korea and the US spoke on Friday and “strongly condemned the Nov 21 launch for its destabilising effect on the region,” the US State Department said in a statement. Earlier this week, KCNA said Kim viewed images taken above the US Pacific territory of Guam of US military installations. – Reuters Myanmar armed group seizes China-Myanmar border crossing BANGKOK: An ethnic minority armed group in Myanmar has seized control from the country’s ruling junta of a lucrative border crossing to China, local media and a security source said Sunday. Clashes have raged across Myanmar’s northern Shan state, close to the Chinese border, after an armed alliance of three ethnic minority groups launched an offensive against the military in October. The groups have seized dozens of military positions and a town important for trade with China, choking commerce routes for the cash-strapped junta. An offensive by the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) – one of the three allied groups – captured the Kyin San Kyawt border gate, a local media outlet affiliated with the group said. “MNDAA also reported they seized one more border trade gate, which is called Kyin San Kyawt, in Mongko area, Muse district this morning,” the Kokang news reported Sunday. It added that the alliance, including the Arakan Army and Ta’ang National Liberation Army, had taken other positions in the border trade zone after the assault began on Friday. MNDAA had raised its flag at the border trade zone at Kyin San Kyawt, a security source told AFP. The gate was re-opened in 2022 after the pandemic and is a major trading point along the Myanmar-China border. B R I E F SFOUR DEAD, DOZENS INJURED IN STAMPEDE NEW DELHI: At least four people were killed and dozens injured Saturday evening in a stampede at a university in southern India, local officials and media reported. The stampede occurred at an outdoor auditorium in the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) in southwest Kerala state, where a concert had been planned. In a statement on X, Kerala state governor Arif Mohammed Khan said he was “deeply shocked and grieved to know about the sad demise of four students” at CUSAT. “Heartfelt condolences to their families. Prayers for speedy recovery of injured,” he added. State Health Minister Veena George said in a statement that four people had been brought dead to the Kalamassery Medical College Hospital while four more were in critical condition, the PTI news agency reported, adding that over 60 people had been injured. TAIWAN RATTLED BY OFFSHORE EARTHQUAKE TAIPEI: A magnitude 5.4 earthquake struck off Taiwan’s east coast yesterday, the island’s weather bureau said, briefly shaking buildings in the capital Taipei but with no reports of damage. The epicentre of the earthquake was in the sea off Taiwan’s Hualien county, at a depth of 22.4km, the weather bureau said. Taiwan lies near the junction of two tectonic plates and is prone to earthquakes. More than 100 people were killed in a quake in southern Taiwan in 2016, while a 7.3 magnitude quake killed more than 2,000 people in 1999.

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 8 More air defences needed to protect grain exports KYIV: Ukraine needs more air defences to protect its grain export routes as well as regions bordering Russia, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday, as he addressed an international summit on food security in Kyiv. “There is a deficit of air defence, that is no secret,” Zelensky told the “Grain from Ukraine” summit, which was attended by senior officials from European countries, including Swiss President Alain Berset and Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte. Zelensky was speaking after Russia attacked Ukraine with 75 drones overnight, the biggest drone assault of the war. The joint press conference of the three leaders was cut short by another air raid siren. Zelensky said Ukraine would be supplied by its foreign partners with vessels to accompany convoys of cargo ships from Ukraine’s ports to guarantee their security. “I have agreements with several countries about powerful accompaniment of convoys by Ukrainians, but using (foreign) equipment,” he said. Separately, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged support in a letter to Zelensky that she shared on social media platform X, saying the Commission would make available €50 million (RM240 million) for “quick repairs and upgrades of infrastructure in Ukraine’s ports”. The Ukrainian president said Kyiv hoped to solve its air defence shortage through new supplies from partners and increasing its own production capacity, something on which he said there had been progress. “As of today, I can’t say details what we are making and where, but there is progress,” he said. oUkraine’s Zelensky admits deficit in air protection, hopes to solve shortage via new supplies from partners and own production capacity Global warming and its impacts on human health PARIS: Growing calls for the world to come to grips with the many ways that global warming affects human health have prompted the first day dedicated to the issue at crunch United Nations (UN) climate talks starting next week. Extreme heat, air pollution and the increasing spread of deadly infectious diseases are just some of the reasons why the World Health Organisation (WHO) has called climate change the single biggest health threat facing humanity. Global warming must be limited to the Paris Agreement target of 1.5°C “to avert catastrophic health impacts and prevent millions of climate change-related deaths”, according to the WHO. However, under current national carboncutting plans, the world is on track to warm up to 2.9°C this century, the UN said this week. While no one will be completely safe from the effects of climate change, experts expect that most at risk will be children, women, the elderly, migrants and people in less developed countries which have emitted the least planet-warming greenhouse gases. On Sunday (Dec 3), the COP28 negotiations in Dubai will host the first “health day” ever held at the climate negotiations. This year is widely expected to be the hottest on record. And as the world continues to warm, even more frequent and intense heatwaves are expected to follow. Heat is believed to have caused more than 70,000 deaths in Europe during summer last year, researchers said last week, revising the previous number up from 62,000. Worldwide, people were exposed to an average of 86 days of life-threatening temperatures last year, according to the Lancet Countdown report earlier this week. Meanwhile, other extreme weather events such as storms, floods and fires will continue to threaten the health of people across the world. – AFP B R I E F SINDIA BID TO FREE 41 TRAPPED WORKERS ENTERS THIRD WEEK SILKYARA: India’s military brought in specialised equipment yesterday as efforts to free 41 trapped workers entered a third week, with digging ongoing in three directions after repeated setbacks to the operation. The Indian air force said they were “responding with alacrity”, as they flew in their third load to a rescue operation since the partial collapse of the underconstruction Silkyara road tunnel on Nov 12 in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. Rescue officials said they called for a superheated plasma cutter to be brought to the remote mountain location, after engineers driving a metal pipe horizontally through 57m of rock and concrete ran into metal girders and construction vehicles buried in the earth. A giant earth-boring machine snapped just nine metres from breaking through. T– AFP NINE KILLED IN LAND CONFLICT IN MEXICO MEXICO CITY: Nine people were killed on Saturday when gunmen shot at a pickup truck in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, the local prosecutor’s office said, indicating that peasant conflicts over land may have sparked the violence. Gunmen fired on the truck as it carried people from the municipality of Santiago Mitlatongo to the town of Nochixtlan, where they were “ambushed,“ the prosecutor’s office said in a statement. “This caused nine people to lose their lives on the spot” while four others – three women and one man – were wounded and taken to a local hospital, the statement said. Prosecutors were seeking to determine the identities of the attackers, it added. – AFP Ukraine, a major exporter of grain, has been exporting grain via unilateral corridors through the Black Sea, after Russia withdrew in July from a UN-brokered deal to allow grain ships through its blockade. Ukraine’s current Black Sea grain export corridors all start from ports in Ukraine’s southern region of Odesa. “There are certain air defence systems... we are asking for them,” Zelensky said. “We’ve already got an answer when those systems will start to guard that region. Because there, both the corridor and the people are important.” Asked about the protests by Polish and Slovak truckers which have blocked much of Ukraine’s road-based cargo supply in recent days, Zelensky blamed the problem on the internal politics of those countries. “I believe that there are difficulties on the border first and foremost because of certain political steps by our neighbours,” he told a press conference after the summit. Zelensky said he was confident the issue would be solved if Ukraine’s neighbours were given “a bit of time” to deal with the dispute. – Reuters Mourning China’s zero-Covid protests a year on SHANGHAI: A year after historic protests broke out on Shanghai’s bustling Wulumuqi Road, only a subtly increased police presence on main junctions betrays anything out of the ordinary. But for many involved in what became China’s most widespread demonstrations in decades, it Is impossible to erase the memory of the events of last autumn. In the early hours of Nov 27, 2022, vigils for victims of a fire in Xinjiang’s capital Urumqi morphed into multi-city calls to end zero-Covid measures, and even in some cases topple the ruling Communist Party and leader Xi Jinping. Authorities responded by cracking down. But in early December they abruptly lifted the strict health restrictions that had dominated people’s lives for almost three years. “Shortly after zero-Covid lifted, everyone just got back to their normal daily life. Everyone just seems to have moved on, no one’s talking about it,” said Li, a protester in her twenties whose name has been changed for security reasons. For people like Li, there is another reason for the silence. Police visited her last month and warned her not to demonstrate. “When I think about (what happened last year) I still feel I’m suffocated by it,” Li told AFP. Like many, she believed the country’s harsh Covid rules had hampered rescue efforts when she joined the vigil on Wulumuqi Road to grieve the 10 people killed in the fire. “When I saw so many people on that street, although I was mourning, in another way I felt safe,” she said, recalling the first night of the protests. “The atmosphere was sad, but also empowering.” – AFP PATIENTLY WAITING ... Rohingya people queue for donations at an immigration building in Lhokseumawe, Aceh province recently. – AFPPIC

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 9 Hamas fighters to free more hostages oEgypt receives positive feedback from both sides about idea of extending truce, releasing more captives GAZA: Hamas fighters were set to release a third group of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a day after freeing captives, including a young woman snatched from a desert rave. In a sign of the fragility of the exchanges, the latest swap on Saturday was delayed for hours after Hamas accused Israel of breaching its side of the deal that led to a four-day ceasefire in the seven-week-old war. Despite the dispute, Hamas finally released 13 Israelis and four Thai hostages at night, officials said. Israel said it in turn freed 39 Palestinian prisoners. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it had since received a list of hostages due to be released by Hamas. The list was being checked by security officials, it said, and families of the hostages had been informed. The family of Emily Hand, a nine-year-old Israeli-Irish freed hostage, said they were “overjoyed” to embrace her again. “We can’t find the words to describe our emotions after 50 challenging and complicated days,” the family said in a statement. “We are overjoyed to embrace Emily again, but at the same time, we remember all the hundreds of hostages who have yet to return.” Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said the four hostages from his country released on Saturday were healthy. “Everyone is glad to be released. Overall mental health is still good,” he said in a social media post. Israeli prison authorities said the latest group of released Palestinian detainees included 38- year-old Israa Jaabis, sentenced to 11 years jail for detonating a gas cylinder at a checkpoint in 2015. The ceasefire and hostage-forprisoner swap have brought the first significant relief to both sides since Oct 7. Israel launched an air, artillery and naval bombardment alongside a ground offensive to destroy Hamas, killing nearly 15,000 people, mostly civilians and including thousands of children, according to the Hamas government in Gaza. Egypt has said it received positive feedback from both sides about the idea of extending the truce for a day or two and releasing more hostages and prisoners. “It’s only a start, but so far it’s gone well,” US President Joe Biden told reporters on Friday, adding “the chances are real” for extending the truce. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi called for “a permanent ceasefire and a complete end to this aggression”. But Israeli armed forces chief Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said Saturday that the war to eliminate Hamas would continue. “We will return immediately at the end of the ceasefire to attack Gaza,” Halevi said. “We will also do this in order to dismantle Hamas, also to create a great deal of pressure to return as quickly as possible and as many abductees as possible, every last one of them.” The latest hostage handover was delayed when Hamas said Israel was interfering in the selection of prisoners for release and not allowing aid to reach civilians in Gaza. Hamas later said it relented when Egyptian and Qatari mediators relayed a promise by Israel to uphold the accord. – AFP A released Palestinian prisoner reacts after leaving the Israeli military prison amid a hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel yesterday. – REUTERSPIC Palestinians use ceasefire to pick through rubble GAZA: After seven weeks of bombardment stopped in Gaza for a truce, Tahani al-Najjar used the calm on Saturday to return to the ruins of her home, smashed by an Israeli air strike that she said killed seven of her family and forced her into a shelter. More than 24 hours into the four-day pause in fighting, thousands of Gaza residents are making that same difficult journey from communal shelters and makeshift encampments to discover what has become of their homes. “Where will we live? Where will we go? We are trying to collect bits of wood to build a tent to shelter us, but to no avail. There is nothing to shelter a family,” Najjar said, picking through the rubble and twisted metal of her house. Najjar, a 58-year-old mother of five from Khan Younis in the south of the enclave, said Israel’s military had also levelled her house in two previous conflicts in 2008 and 2014. For many of the 2.3 million people who live in the Gaza Strip, the pause in the near-constant air and artillery strikes has offered a first chance to safely move around, take stock of the devastation and seek access to aid imports. At outdoor markets and aid depots, thousands of people stood queuing for some of the aid that began flowing into Gaza in larger quantities as part of the truce. In a street market in Khan Younis, where tomatoes, lemons, aubergines, peppers, onions and oranges sat in crates, Ayman Nofal said he was able to buy more vegetables than had been available before the truce and that they cost less. “We hope the truce will continue and be permanent, not just four or five days. People cannot pay the cost of this war,” he said. At a UN agency centre in Khan Younis, people waited for cooking gas. Supplies had begun running short weeks ago and many people were cooking food over open fires fuelled by scavenged wood salvaged from bomb sites. – Reuters Thousands demonstrate in Canada for ceasefire OTTAWA: Thousands of protesters on Saturday carried placards, waved Palestinian flags and chanted slogans before Canada’s Parliament in Ottawa, demanding a permanent ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas. The diverse group included Palestinian, Arab, Muslim, Jewish, anti-war, labour and social justice organisations. The rally followed an online petition presented to lawmakers on Friday with 286,719 signatures, said to be the most of any parliamentary e-petition, urging Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to press for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. “A pause is not enough,” said Yara Shoufani, a protest organiser, adding that “thousands of Palestinians have been killed and Gaza’s infrastructure has been destroyed”. Protester Omar Yousif, 38, said he was taking part to “awaken the world” to the plight of civilians in Gaza. The current pause in fighting, he told AFP, “is definitely not enough. I think that this has to stay permanent”. The demonstration in the Canadian capital was peaceful but earlier this month Trudeau had to be escorted to safety as police broke up a pro-Palestinian protest outside the Vancouver restaurant where he was dining. The prime minister had said earlier that day that the killing “of women, of children, of babies” in the Israel-Hamas war must stop, drawing a strong rebuke from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. In Gaza, a temporary truce was largely being respected as Israel released Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas. – AFP B R I E F STRUCKS DELIVER AID IN NORTHERN GAZA WASHINGTON: The United Nations (UN) on Saturday said 61 trucks carrying medical supplies, food and water had delivered their payloads in northern Gaza, as a pause in fighting allows aid to enter the besieged coastal territory. Another 200 trucks had been dispatched to the Gaza Strip from Nitzana, Israel, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said in a statement, with 187 of them having made it past the border by the early evening local time. Eleven ambulances, three coaches and a flatbed were delivered to Al-Shifa hospital, which had seen heavy fighting in recent days, “to assist with evacuations,“ the statement said. “The longer the pause lasts, the more aid humanitarian agencies will be able to send in and across Gaza,“ it added, thanking the Palestinian and Egyptian Red Crescent groups. – AFP TWIN BABIES DIE IN HOUSE FIRE IN FRANCE RENNES: Twin babies were killed, and their father seriously injured, when a fire broke out in their home in northwest France on Saturday, firefighters said. “The fire brigade responded to a fire in a single-family dwelling on the ground floor, which was completely engulfed in flames when emergency services arrived”, said the fire service in the LoireAtlantique region. The 13-month-old twins died and their 40-year-old father suffered serious injuries. Fourteen fire engines were mobilised to put out the blaze. – AFP

10 MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Contact theSun's Advertising & Marketing team to book your advertising space. 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my Christmas Christmas Special Advertise with us on Christmas Special on Dec 15, 2023 PUBLICATION DATE 15 DECEMBER, 2023 (Friday) BOOKING DEADLINE 1 DECEMBER, 2023 (Friday) When the time comes for you to once again put up the Christmas tree in your living room and go through the family festive recipe books, don't forget to check out our Christmas Special on where, when and how to get the best festive gifts, surprises and promotions for your loved ones, friends and associates. I MAGINE in the realm of academia, experts from different technology fields coming together to tackle monumental challenges. It is called interdisciplinary collaboration, revolutionising how we approach research and innovation. Some challenges in today’s technology landscape are too massive for any single field to conquer. Hence, with each technological breakthrough, this collaborative spirit is reshaping the world. Think about global issues such as climate change, healthcare and online security. These problems demand the collective wisdom of specialists from diverse fields. When they unite, they engineer imaginative solutions, with the potential to reshape the technological landscape. Digital healthcare epitomises the magic of teamwork. Imagine doctors, technology wizards and data sorcerers joining forces. Together, they can conjure up wonders, such as telemedicine. For example, meeting your doctor via a screen, wearable health gadgets and intelligent diagnostic tools. These marvels will not only enhance healthcare but make it more accessible to everyone. In a world wired by the internet, cybersecurity is the sentinel that keeps us safe. Interdisciplinary collaboration between cybersecurity experts, code maestros and even psychology whizzes is what stands between us and digital chaos. They are the modern-day heroes, fortifying our data and devices against malicious forces. Feeding a growing global population while preserving the planet is a complex challenge. Today, researchers in food technology blend biology, agriculture and technology to design innovative approaches for food production. It is not just about farming anymore, instead, it is about smart, sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices to produce a fresh and nutritious supply of vegetables, fruits and herbs. Imagine travelling with a digital companion who unveils hidden stories and enriches your journey. This is tourism technology at work. It is like having a personal guide on your phone. The magic unfolds when tourism experts, technology maestros and culture aficionados work in concert. Handling finances has never been more streamlined, thanks to fintech. Finance gurus, technology enthusiasts and data experts collaborate to invent innovations, such as online banking, digital wallets and investment applications. These fintech marvels make managing your money simpler and more accessible. In this day and age, universities are rewriting the rules of technological research support, seeing that they play a pivotal role in technology transformation. They curate spaces where technology wizards from diverse domains converge to spark innovation. These spaces are akin to hightechnology laboratories, where ideas fuse and ignite. Additionally, they offer funding and resources for interdisciplinary projects, nurturing innovative ideas. They champion a new mindset in academia, one that values teamwork as much as individual brilliance. This shift is the driving force behind a promising future for technology research, which hinges on collaboration. Universities lead the change by creating hubs for teamwork and backing collaborative ventures. This teamwork is unravelling solutions to colossal technological challenges in digital healthcare, cybersecurity, food, tourism and financial technologies. Ahead lies a treasure trove of discoveries and innovations. Together with diverse fields, we can forge a tech-savvy world – brighter and better for everyone. Universities light the path towards a future where collaboration reigns supreme, and the possibilities are boundless. The writer has over 25 years of experience in research and development, innovation management and as a technology strategist. He is also the vice-president of Innovation and Commercialisation at Taylor’s University’s Centre for Research and Enterprise: Knowledge Transfer and Commercialisation. Comments: [email protected] Revolutionising healthcare will benefit more individuals deprived of this crucial service. – REUTERSPIC EPF and Socso benefits for podium athletes lauded I REFER to the article titled ”EPF (Employment Provident Fund), Socso plan for athletes mulled” in theSun on Nov 23. The National Sports Council (NSC) and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh are commended for offering a huge relief to our podium athletes. Beginning next year, athletes will have the opportunity to contribute to EPF and Socso, marking a positive stride in securing their financial well-being. In her closing remarks during the committee-level debate on the ministry’s 2024 Supply Bill, Yeoh stated that the NSC is refining the implementation of a programme aimed at providing welfare coverage for athletes in the country. This initiative will be a game-changer for our athletes, with its full implementation set to commence in January next year, as this will ensure the welfare of these national heroes who have selflessly dedicated their time to bring fame and glory to our nation, and their efforts deserve appreciation. Many of them have been exposed to risk of injury during rigorous training and competition. Furthermore, some have undergone challenges of being separated from their families. Only a few of these atheletes have managed to achieve world-class status and lead comfortable lives postretirement, such as Datuk Nicol David, an eight-time women’s squash world champion, and Datuk Lee Chong Wei, a three-time Olympic singles badminton silver medallist. A majority of them fall into the category of average income earners in the M40 or substantial B40 groups. Following their retirement from sports and jobs, many struggle to make ends meet, grappling with the rising cost of living. Newspapers have featured disheartening accounts of our athletes grappling with financial, relationship and health challenges. The National Athletes Welfare Foundation, despite its efforts, has certain limitations in providing assistance, especially in terms of medical and welfare support. The EPF and Socso contributions will aid athletes, especially those facing financial difficulties. Nevertheless, Yeoh needs to formulate impactful policies and procedures, with the most promising solution being the establishment of a pension scheme. Additionally, she should devise a model for education and career pathways for retired athletes to facilitate their employment as trainers, coaches, advisers, administrators, commentators and broadcasters. Neglecting our unsung heroes may demoralise aspiring athletes considering sports as a career. There are numerous roles that these former athletes can play at the school, district and state levels to advance sports. Leveraging their experiences and expertise can be beneficial than relying on foreign coaches. C. Sathasivam Sitheravellu Seremban LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Mohd Roydean Osman Reshaping future of research

11 MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 Humanitarian insanity at work in Gaza ALL but one congressman in the US have signed to pledge support to the American Israel Public Affairs Commission (Aipac). Whether this is apocryphal or otherwise, actions speak louder than words. The macabre display of Israel’s war-killing machine has been permitted to advance with little reaction or concern. Never in the history of the United Nations (UN) has one heard of “humanitarian pause”, especially with a daily four-hour window. Nevertheless, this supposed peacemaking measure is now in effect. Countries such as China, Russia, France and the UK, who have seen through the hypocrisy, have candidly exposed the charade of Aipac and the US. Junior and senior diplomats within the US State Department have unequivocally informed President Joe Biden’s administration that the current policy concerning the Palestinian issue is fundamentally flawed. Mere calls for “humanitarian pauses” are insufficient as allowing Israel to resume its war operations in Gaza would lead to a rise in the death toll, especially among children, women, the elderly and the disabled. After six weeks of relentless bombings, over half of the victims, including the maimed, are babies, women, the elderly and disabled individuals in Gaza. They have nowhere to seek refuge from this genocide. The narrative labelling Shifa Hospital as the “Command centre of Hamas” has been challenged by reputable sources, such as TIME magazine, the New York Times and other US media, except for a few influenced by Aipac. The repetition of bombings by Israel, seemingly expecting global compliance at its ultra-zealot altar, is tantamount to madness. Moreover, what is legally impermissible, as outlined in the 1959 Geneva Convention prohibiting the occupation of any land through illegal acts of war, has been distorted. Any form of annexation is equally reprehensible. If this twisted logic were to hold, then the world’s economy should be handed over to the former colonies of the erstwhile imperial empires. Consequently, the pact between Israel and Aipac must be dismantled. Fortunately, centre and left-leaning Americans still have some decency, exercising their freedom of assembly and free speech to challenge the policies of the Biden Administration. Nevertheless, mere vocal protests, whether on or off campus, online or offline, fall short, especially when the Biden Administration responds to this discontent with empty platitudes. For example, in response to the internal revolt within the US State Department, Biden merely asserted an appreciation for the diversity of opinions, offering little substantive response. What kind of political correctness is this? Such statements inadvertently contribute to the perpetuation of genocide, assisting Israel and Aipac in realising a world of sheer evil. How? To begin with, when Biden invoked the “two-state solution”, it served as a formulaic phrase for the systematic killing and collective punishment of Palestinians of all backgrounds and beliefs by Israel and Aipac. Those who disagree with this line and doctrine are deemed to be antiSemitic, when in fact, the Arabs and Palestinians are also part of the Semitic groups. Secondly, baseless and wild historical claims should not serve as the foundation for international law in 1948, now or in the future. The argument that Palestine is the ancestral land of Israel verging on a Zionist history dating back more than 3,000 years, is a serious historical aberration. Thirdly, Israel’s claims that their only home was violated on Oct 7 hold no basis. Jews have had a historical presence in various parts of Eastern Europe and Russia. For example, the Hasidic Jews have a sectarian history of only 200 years, originating in Kviv, Ukraine. They speak Yiddish, which is not part of the original language of the land of Palestine, let alone Southern Palestine, which is a significant part of present-day Syria. Israel is an artificial construction that warrants thorough examination by scholars and historians. The institutional influence of Israel and Aipac on the administrative elites and leaders in the US political scene is a well-noted one. Leading authorities in international relations, such as Prof John Mearsheimer at the University of Chicago and Prof Stephen Walt at the Kennedy School of Government, have publicly criticised them, even to the extent that their reputations have been tarred. As a result, witnessing Israel’s assault on Gaza is tantamount to an invitation to be complicit in various forms of war crimes. Granted that foreign ministers of the Muslim majority countries are actively engaging with various major capitals of the permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC), it is imperative for OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) and Group of 77 to follow the example set by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: emphasising that “the world is more than five”, referring to more than the five “In urging everyone to view the Gaza massacre by Israel as a systemic issue flawed from 1945 calls for an immediate and long-term solution to the Palestinian crisis. This form of insanity must be halted and eliminated.” The world must rise to the occasion and take a stance of pro-humanity. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Dr Rais Hussin permanent members of the UNSC. Why? Israel and Aipac’s attempt to pull the wool over the eyes of the whole world cannot go unchallenged in the UN General Assembly (UNGA) or the UNSC of five. Accepting this logic implies that the world’s economy should be redistributed to the former colonies of the erstwhile imperial empires, a historical context in which Israel conveniently came out with the Balfour Declaration of 1917 during World War I. The current modern economy is built upon the historical foundations of slavery and servitude. Therefore, if the fallacious past can be used as a pretext to create “facts on the ground”, then everything since 1948, the year of Israel’s ostensible independence, is open to claims as well. Unless the UNSC undergoes serious structural reforms, the bloodshed in Gaza and the West Bank is unlikely to cease. What is cynically referred to as a “humanitarian pause”, as pointed out by a Gaza resident, is essentially a lull of four hours each day before the distressing decimation of the Palestinian people in Gaza and subsequently in the West Bank resumes, advancing the expansionary vision of illicit Zionists ideas from the river to the sea. Such an atavistic world order goes against any Abrahamic principle of “thou shalt not kill” and “steal”. As 12th-century Jewish philosopher Moses Maimonides, in his efforts to prevent the various tribes of Israel from attacking each other, once proclaimed: “The root to any religion is the belief in not doing to others what others shall not do unto others.” In urging everyone to view the Gaza massacre by Israel as a systemic issue flawed from 1945 calls for an immediate and long-term solution to the Palestinian crisis. This form of insanity must be halted and eliminated as it has evolved into an epidemic of misinformation. To the credit of many Hasidic Jews, who refused to acknowledge the secular and salacious existence of Israel as a “Jewish state”, most of them have refused to serve in the Israel Defence Force. The world cannot wait for the Hasidic Jews to make up 30% of the Israeli population by 2050; no Palestinians, regardless of their faith, can simply be erased. In this moment of dark history, our decisive and astute prime minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, raised the issue of ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians by the Israelis at the end of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in the presence of leaders, including Biden, US Vice President Kamala Harris and US State Secretary Anthony Blinken, who are known to be pro-Israeli, emphasising that “this genocide must stop now”. Such a stance is heartening, and more leaders worldwide must rise to the occasion and take a stance of pro-humanity. The writer is the founder of Emir Research, a think tank focused on strategic policy recommendations based on rigorous research. Comments: [email protected]

BANKING & INSURANCE BANKING & INSURANCE 12 MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 PolicyStreet introduces 3F Car Protection Packages oInsurtech’s policies specially tailored for female drivers, vehicle owners in flood-prone areas and those with family PETALING JAYA: Car insurance is essential for every Malaysian driver, but many are ineligible for comprehensive coverage due to the age of their vehicle. With limited protection from third-party, fire and theft coverage, Malaysians are often left financially vulnerable in the event of accidents. Gearing up to meet this challenge, PolicyStreet, a Khazanah Nasional Bhd-backed insurtech, is rolling out the Female, Family and Flood (3F) Car Protection Packages, fine-tuned to get Malaysians on track to financial security. Starting at RM50 a year, the 3F packages can be taken separately or combined, allowing Malaysians to customise their car insurance protection levels in alignment with their needs and budget. Each 3F package includes varying perks, with a common foundation that encompasses free towing, access to a 24-hour emergency helpline, the labour cost of roadside repairs, and compassionate claims of up to RM20,000 in the event of the policyholder’s accidental death or permanent disablement. PolicyStreet chief digital officer Tang Siew Wai expressed the company’s unwavering commitment Liberty General, UniKL team up to nurture future insurance leaders PETALING JAYA: Liberty General Insurance Bhd and Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) are embarking on a collaborative journey to carve a brighter future for UniKL students. This strategic collaboration, forged in the spirit of fostering education and youth development, represents a significant step towards equipping the next generation with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to thrive in the dynamic landscape of Malaysia’s insurance industry. Liberty and UniKL signed a letter of intent on the strategic collaboration earlier this month. Representing Liberty at the signing was its CEO, Puneet Pasricha (Pasha), while UniKL was represented by Prof Dr Naziruddin Abdullah, dean of UniKL Business School. Pasha said, “We at Liberty are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with UniKL as a significant part of our environmental, social and governance initiatives. “Our commitment to nurturing the talents of tomorrow runs deep in our corporate DNA, and this is a testament to that commitment. More than just merely providing insurance; we see it as our responsibility to build a brighter, more prosperous Malaysia.” He added, “By investing in the future of UniKL students, we are not only enriching their lives but also strengthening the very fabric of this nation. This collaboration, therefore, is not just about educational initiatives; it’s about igniting the flames of entrepreneurship, instilling practical skills, and preparing students to become the leaders of tomorrow’s insurance industry.” Echoing Pasha’s sentiments, Naziruddin said, “Today marks the start of an exciting journey for UniKL and our students. With the support of Liberty, our students will gain invaluable insight and unrivaled industry exposure. This aligns with our mission to empower future leaders who will shape the destiny of Malaysia. Together with Liberty, we envision a future where our students not only excel academically but also thrive in the dynamic world of insurance and entrepreneurship.” Liberty, a prominent player in the global insurance arena, emphasises its commitment to giving back to Malaysian communities and nurturing young talent. UniKL is a multi-campus technical university with an enrolment of more than 24,000 students in a diverse array of programmes. Takaful associations hold forum to foster stronger industry ties PETALING JAYA: To bridge the gap between general takaful operators (GTO) and brokers, the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) and the Malaysian Insurance and Takaful Brokers Association (MITBA) organised the Bridging the Gap – Takaful Industry and Broker’s Forum earlier this month. The forum marked a significant milestone in strengthening business relationships within the takaful industry by convening eminent industry speakers, top CEOs, and other business leaders to foster innovation and collaboration in the dynamic world of takaful. The Bridging the Gap Forum was specially designed to provide a dynamic platform for GTO and brokers to engage and share insights on business landscape, challenges and expectations of the ever-evolving takaful sector. The forum also served as a vital hub where key stakeholders could collaborate, discuss emerging trends and address industry challenges while exploring opportunities for mutual growth. Furthermore participants had the opportunity to share their industry insights, experiences, and expertise, contributing to a deeper understanding of the takaful landscape. Plus, participants could explore potential business opportunities, partnerships and initiatives that drive mutual growth and benefit the industry as a whole. MTA CEO Mohd Radzuan Mohamed said, “This forum represents a significant step towards enhancing collaboration within the takaful industry. We believe that by bringing together general takaful operators and brokers, we can collectively overcome challenges, embrace opportunities, and drive the takaful industry forward collaboratively and innovatively.” MITBA CEO Prof Datuk Shazme Sulaiman said, “This collaboration reflects our commitment to foster a resilient takaful industry. By uniting the expertise of brokers and general takaful operators, we aim to drive innovation, address industry challenges, and unlock the full potential of the takaful sector.” Bank Muamalat rolls out anti-graft plan for 2023-25 PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with National Integrity Day 2023 recently, Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd has launched its Organisational Anti-Corruption Plan for 2023- 2025 (OACP 2023-2025) as an indication of its commitment to combatting corruption and nurturing good governance, in line with requirement outlined by the National AntiCorruption Plan 2019-2023. Bank Muamalat said in a statement that the OACP is a fundamental component of its broader integrity agenda, aiming to establish a culture characterised by high levels of integrity and professionalism throughout the product and service delivery processes, capturing the bank’s brand purpose of ensuring “Better Lives, Together” for all. Bank Muamalat has identified nine strategic objectives, including robust internal controls, enhanced accountability and a strong focus on minimising corruption risks. President and CEO Khairul Kamarudin said, “The OACP is designed with the mission to improve efficiency, transparency and accountability as well as embedding Bank Muamalat’s integrity and ethics standards, which are key ingredients towards transforming Bank Muamalat into the best Islamic bank in Malaysia that customers can trust and rely on.” AI helps agents improve productivity and dealings with customers PUTRAJAYA: Artificial intelligence (AI) can make it easier for takaful industry players to increase their productivity and in their dealings with customers. Etiqa General Takaful Bhd’s head of General Takaful Agency, Mohammad Rashidin Razali, said takaful agents need to be prepared to use AI technology, which can help in the process of drawing up agreements with customers. “If it involves big data like medical and financial history, we have a limit. But, with AI, it will make us more competent as well as increase our ability and capability,” he said at a panel discussion session titled “Battle of the Brains: Agents vs AI – Who will win the Game?’ at the Takaful Leaders and Agents Summit 2023 (TLAS 2023) at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre here recently. Prudential BSN Takaful Bhd CEO Wan Saifulrizal Wan Ismail concurred, saying that with the assistance of AI, agents can deal with their customers better, besides being able to offer them 24-hour service. Prudential BSN Takaful Bhd Premier Financial planner Mohamad Hilmi Abd Nasir, meanwhile, said the use of the technology can also help takaful agents seek insurance leads. Meanwhile, Ouch! Sdn Bhd CEO Shazy Noorazman advised takaful agents to provide AI technology on their respective platforms to help facilitate customers in answering frequently asked questions and profile customers. TLAS 2023, organised by the Malaysian Takaful Association, was held for the first time. – Bernama to serving the underserved in the insurance market. “We believe that every driver, regardless of their vehicle’s age, deserves access to enhanced protection. With the 3F insurance packages, we are making it easier for drivers with older vehicles to rev up their safety on the road. With the 3F packages, we aim to set a new standard in auto insurance, ensuring that no driver is left without the protection they deserve,” he said. With the 3F insurance packages, PolicyStreet ensures drivers with older vehicles enjoy their journey with peace of mind. By providing consumers with the option to customise their basic insurance policies with these packages, vehicle owners can now cruise with the assurance that they have an extra layer of protection, no matter the age of their vehicle. Designed to protect female motorists, the Female Driver Protection+ Package insures the policyholders’ money and valuables in the event of car breakins or snatch thefts, offering up to RM800 in compensation for the losses. Additionally, policyholders can receive up to RM500 for any skin injuries sustained in the burglary. Families with older vehicles can also buckle up and enjoy a new chapter in road safety with the Family Protection+ Package. Aside from acting as a personal accident coverage, the package covers the medical expenses of the driver and their family members involved in car accidents up to RM1,000. Child seats and other essential baby items damaged in car accidents will be compensated up to RM500. For Malaysians living in floodprone areas, the Flood Protection+ Package is a crucial financial safety net. The Flood package covers events ranging from flash floods to landslides, offering an instant payout of RM800 for mud and water removal and cleaning of car interior and exterior, ensuring that natural disasters never put the brakes on drivers’ road adventures. In addition to complementing Third-Party, Fire, and Theft coverages, the 3F car insurance packages can also be purchased alongside Comprehensive coverages. Drivers opting for Comprehensive coverages can enjoy additional benefits under the Flood Protection+ Package which includes standard flood coverage and repairs claimable up to the sum insured. Drivers also enjoy worry-free claims, especially when it comes to drivers limited to Third-Party, Fire, and Theft coverage. The basic 3F insurance packages are designed to ensure that making a claim will not impact the drivers’ No-Claim Discount.

MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] Malaysia raises 2023 digital investment target to RM80b and talent development in the country. Director-general of Higher Education Professor Dr Azlinda Azman who delivered the keynote at the summit said it has become crucial for all our educators to be able to utilise ICT tools and technologies both within and beyond the classroom setting, to leverage its power to facilitate personalised learning, and to prepare the next generation for the digital age. She also commended the efforts of the Huawei ICT Academy in bridging the gap between education and industry. “To facilitate the smoother transition for young Malaysians to participate effectively in the economy, it is equally vital for us to close the gap between education and industry. “The Huawei ICT Academy as a prime example of effectively bridging this gap. As a platform, the Huawei ICT Academy has integrated theory and pragmatic practice, as Nik Hishamuddin giving his presentation at the summit. oRevision comes after year-to-date amount surpasses RM75b, against original goal of RM25b Market players must play role in stabilising ringgit: BNM deputy governor KUALA LUMPUR: Market players and participants must avoid contributing to the downward pressure on the ringgit and instead should stay composed and play a stabilising role in riding out the current highly dynamic situation, said Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) deputy governor Adnan Zaylani. He said the central bank closely watches market and public sentiment, realising how sentiment can also drive traders’ quoting and pricing of the US dollar/ringgit pair, the market flows and the public’s behaviour. “Perhaps we (market players) should consider the greater interest, beyond our own individual profits or higher returns. “We can see there’s much general dissatisfaction (and) unhappiness over a weak ringgit and by inference, many of us prefer a stronger ringgit. Yet our actions do the opposite. We should change this,” he said in his keynote address at the Financial Market Association of Malaysia Annual Dinner 2023. Adnan, who stressed that the movements of the ringgit exchange rate in recent times have not been a fair reflection of Malaysia’s economic fundamentals, called on market players to be prepared to play their role. “All of us have to recognise that our individual actions could also be contributing to the short-term downward pressure on the ringgit. “Demands by corporates and investors to invest abroad, exporters holding back conversion, importers purchasing foreign currency and hedging well ahead before its necessary. Individuals, businesses, opening foreign currency accounts and converting their ringgit savings for the higher foreign currency interest rates. “Undoubtedly, collectively, these add further downward pressure to the ringgit,” he said. Adnan said market players should avoid contributing to the downward pressures on the ringgit, let alone jeopardise the orderly functioning of the market. “Accordingly, market players should advise their clients to manage their foreign exchange (forex) exposures appropriately. This is to ensure that our financial market activities do not become an amplifier of risks to the economy,” he said. While Malaysia is neither in any crisis nor any financial or economic stress, the central bank remains vigilant, he said. Adnan said there is a need to be prepared as the anticipated change in global monetary tightening stances, in particular in the US, is not a done deal given the continued presence of inflation risks. “BNM, of course, is monitoring market behaviour and market flows and will act accordingly. At its basic, where necessary, we will come to the market to ensure liquidity and stem any undue volatility. “Our surveillance has expanded, now covering not just financial markets, but also tracking corporate flows; exports, imports and loan repayments, trends among the investing public including the growing availability of foreign currency offerings,” he said. Adnan noted that recent forex forecasts by analysts, reflecting that the Federal Reserve could be nearly at the end of its rate hiking cycle, also showed that some market participants expect the ringgit to strengthen, reaching the 4.55 to 4.61 level by year-end and further strengthening in 2024. “We can all play a role in getting us there. “Finally, as we step into the new year, I hope we continue to navigate the financial markets with greater awareness of our impact and recognise that our collective actions can shape a more resilient and equitable financial landscape,” he said. Adnan also highlighted that despite various challenges in 2023, Malaysia continues to see resiliency in the financial markets, with the forex market recording a strong daily turnover volume of US$15.4 billion (RM72 billion) per day. “Ringgit volatility remains the lowest among regional peers. Indeed, two years into this current cycle of US dollar strength, our markets, financial institutions and financial sector, (and) the economy have all weathered this challenge rather well,” he said. – Bernama Local OGSE industry expected to improve until 2025 KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s oil and gas services and equipment (OGSE) industry is expected to improve until 2025, driven by the positive outlook and increase in the domestic oil and gas (O&G) industry activities. Malaysia Petroleum Resources Corporation (MPRC) president/CEO Mohd Yazid Ja’afar said that in Malaysia, the OGSE industry is “not so much” affected by the global crude oil demand and prices. He pointed out that since the global prices went down in 2015, there was an initiative adopted by domestic O&G players to implement cost saving measures and due to the pandemic occurring not long after in 2019, has resulted in tighter measures implemented by O&G players that is still in place until today. “Irrespective of the oil price at the moment, the OGSE industry is a price taker. They cannot set the price or rates and they just have to accept the price or rates set by the O&G companies … it all depends on the procurement strategy of these companies,” he told SunBiz. Despite that, he said currently there is a lot of work and demand for OGSE players in the upstream, O&G production and exploration. “Instead of the OGSE sector as a price taker, they can now start to dictate (and choose) whichever company that gives them the best (rate),” he added. He remarked that the “busy period” for the industry started since last year, and reckoned that its going to continue until 2025, from the amount of work it observed in the market as well as guided by Petronas’ Activity Outlook for 2023-2025. “From what we can see, the amount of work is consistent, we have that visibility until 2025, maybe 2026. There are a lot more requests from the operators or the oil companies. So hopefully that work will trickle down to the industry at large,” he said. He added that there are a lot more opportunities if the OGSE players were to comply with global sustainability standards so as to not restrict themselves only in Malaysia. In terms of challenges, he said that industry players in general were facing issues with lack of awareness on sustainability and talent shortage. “There is still lack of awareness this year with regard to sustainability, but I think there have been more attempts from the OGSE players to comply compared to two or three years back,” said Mohd Yazid. KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has exceeded RM75 billion in digital investments so far this year and the government is setting its sights on RM80 billion for 2023, according to Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). MDEC senior manager, talent & capability (tertiary) Nik Hishamuddin Nik Mohd Yusoff said that the revised target comes after an adjustment from the original projection of RM25 billion earlier this year, which was revised due to surpassing RM14 billion by the middle of the year. “We just revised our investment target for this year, it was supposed to be about RM25 billion investment coming into Malaysia for this year, but by the middle of this year, we had to revise it because we already surpassed RM14 billion this year. The ministry has given us a new target, which is RM80 billion and I think that is not a challenge because from the last report that we had, last week we already achieved about RM75 billion, so it’s only about RM5 billion to go and our investment team is still going around,” he said at Huawei ICT Academy Summit 2023 recently. In his presentation, he said that investment opportunities in Malaysia’s digital economy are global business services, the development hub of IT and AI, and software and automation application cloud. Currently, Malaysia’s digital economy contributes 22.6% to the GDP. The target for its contribution to GDP by 2025 is set at 25.5%. To meet the demands of this growing sector, Malaysia aims to develop 1.2 million digital tech talents. The Huawei ICT Academy Summit 2023 last Friday saw the convergence of educators as well as industry professionals and leaders placing the spotlight on information and communications technology (ICT) as a key enabler in education █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] well as incorporated up-to-date ICT applications into teaching and training courses. “The academy is widely acknowledged by industry peers for its good work in training and talent development initiatives to produce worldclass ICT professionals. It also ensures that the academia and the industry are in sync as to the type of talent cultivated and needed,” said Azlinda. She added the event is also another example of how the gap can be narrowed between education and industry. “In a fast-paced, digital world, ICT is a crucial enabler of quality, inclusivity, and innovation in learning. Educators and educational institutions must quickly adapt to the disruptions technology has brought in its wake, as it is imperative to stay ahead of the curve so that you are able to effectively engage with students,” she said.

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Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE Issues around withholding tax GENERALLY, when withholding taxes come to your mind, it will only be on payments made to non-residents. Normally withholding taxes are paid over to the tax authorities within one month from the payment date or the amount is credited as payable to the recipient in the books of the payer in Malaysia. Withholding taxes covers payments made by non-residents for interests, royalties, special classes of income, and gains or profits not taxed under Section 4(a) to 4(e) of the Income Tax Act 1967. The tax rate is normally 10-15%, but you need to look at the double tax agreements for reduced rates. There is another class of income paid to non-resident contractors who carry out projects in Malaysia and established a business presence in Malaysia which also attract withholding tax (at 13%) which is a payment on account used to offset against the non-resident contractors’ final tax liability and used to cover the taxes of their expatriates. Issues This is a tax imposed on the nonresident and collected and paid over by the payer in Malaysia. If there is a failure to pay the tax, the burden is entirely on the Malaysian payer. The non-resident is not held responsible for his tax. The penalty provisions are penal if there is a failure to comply: The payer will not be given any tax deduction and the amount due will still be collectable from the payer with a late payment penalty of 10%. There are many technical interpretational issues surrounding the royalty provisions due to the conflict between the domestic legislation and double tax agreements. This is an ongoing saga. Aeon registers RM13.8m profit after tax for Q3 KUALA LUMPUR: Aeon Co (M) Bhd recorded a profit after tax (PAT) of RM13.8 million for the third quarter of financial year 2023 (Q3’23), an increase of 27% compared with RM10.9 million in the same quarter last year. Aeon’s property management services segment generated a revenue of RM166 million for the current quarter, marking a 6.5% increase compared to the corresponding quarter’s RM155.8 million. The growth was supported by improved occupancy rates and effective rental renewals. The retail business segment reported revenue of RM789.9 million, reflecting a 4.4% decrease compared with the corresponding quarter’s RM826.2 million. The decline was primarily attributed to the temporary partial closure of two of stores, namely Aeon Malacca and Aeon Mall Cheras Selatan for renovation. The firm registered total revenue of RM3,095.7 million for the nine-month period, representing a 0.5% increase compared to the previous year’s corresponding period of RM3,079.3 million. Meanwhile, PAT moderated 4.8% to RM82.2 million mainly due to higher operating cost. Aeon managing director Keiji Ono said, “Our accelerated business expansion plans and innovative new retail model strategy have contributed positively to our business. Building upon this, Aeon is actively venturing into untapped markets by adapting to diverse customer needs through various formats.” he said. Looking ahead, Ono said Aeon remains unwavering in its commitment to expedite its digital transformation, as well as create exclusive brands that resonate with a wide range of customer preferences. There is an incorrect assumption that other than the non-resident contractor’s withholding tax, all the other withholding taxes are final taxes. It is a final tax if the non-resident accepts the tax and there is no overpayment. In the event there is an overpayment, the law allows the non-resident to apply and file a tax return for the refund. The payer cannot apply on behalf of the non-resident, although he can work together with the nonresident to assist with the refund. In most cases, you can anticipate that such a request will result in a tax audit on the nonresident. The common issue that will be challenged is the head office expenditure charged to the Malaysian accounts of the company, which is also a transfer pricing issue. If the non-resident wishes to apply for a refund, be prepared to engage in a debate with the IRB on your eligibility for the refund. Foreign contractors tend to circumvent or reduce the withholding tax by fragmenting the contracts between materials supply, labour supply, and commissioning and installation work done in Malaysia. This will be done by supplying and invoicing the materials from the overseas company, and using a tax resident subsidiary or local connected third parties to provide the work that is done in Malaysia. This way, the withholding tax will be avoided since it is paid to resident parties, and the supply of goods will not attract withholding tax. Such arrangements can be challenged by the IRB under the anti-avoidance legislation. Trying to get refunds from tax authorities is a cumbersome process, and sometimes obtaining refunds could take you up to 2-3 years. The problem is that the tax authorities keep asking the taxpayer for proof that the withholding tax has been deducted and numerous other questions when in fact the records are available in the IRB. On this area, the IRB needs to improve its internal protocols and working arrangements such that the burden of providing documents which have already been provided many years earlier should not be requested again from the taxpayers. The internal procedures must be improved so that refunds can be made to taxpayers quickly. The headache of obtaining refunds has been going on far too long. It is time to improve. This article is contributed by Thannees Tax Consulting Services Sdn Bhd managing director SM Thanneermalai (www.thannees.com).

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 15 Berjaya Food Trading brings Star Kombucha to Malaysia oElevates country’s beverage scene with premium brand from Vietnam PETALING JAYA: Berjaya Food Trading Sdn Bhd (BFT), a wholly owned subsidiary of Berjaya Food Bhd, is renowned for its extensive line-up of products including Joybean soymilk and ready-to-eat range, Dilmah iced tea ready-todrink, Australia Manuka honey drink and Kelava plant-based ice cream. BFT is now making waves in its beverage division with the introduction of Star Kombucha. This premium kombucha brand, originated from Vietnam, is officially launched in Malaysia, offering a refreshing and healthier alternative to cater to the Malaysian palate. For stringent quality control, Star Kombucha is brewed at a state-of-the-art facility using organic black and green teas, raw sugarcane, fresh fruits and US Food and Drug Administration-certified Scoby (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). It is delicately brewed for 30 days in small batches with all natural, finest ingredients available in the world, offering a lightly carbonated kombucha, making it suitable for consumers across all segments. Additionally, Star Kombucha is halal certified by Jakim, catering to a diverse range of consumers. In 2023, kombucha earned recognition from the Aurora International Taste Challenge for its consistent taste profile and harmonious blend with real fruit juice. Star Kombucha contains naturally occurring sugar from fresh fruits, resulting in a subtly sweet kombucha with just 8g of sugar per serving. As a natural, fermented drink, Star Kombucha offers more than just refreshment. It is rich in probiotics and antioxidants, making it an ideal choice for digestive health, immune system support, and weight management. Simply grab and go to enjoy the diverse health benefits it provides. “We are thrilled to introduce Star Kombucha to Malaysia, providing Malaysians with a premium kombucha experience,” said Berjaya Food Trading general manager Nicholas Nyeow. “Malaysians are increasingly focusing on healthier lifestyles and holistic well-being. With its unique flavour, adherence to high-quality standards, and a commitment to wellness, Star Kombucha is poised to become a favourite in the market.” Star Kombucha presents a selection of flavours thoughtfully crafted to appeal to the Malaysian taste buds, including Blueberry, Mango, Passionfruit, and Lychee. Indulge in the distinctive and invigorating taste of each variant, priced between RM 8.90 and RM 9.90 per can, ensuring an affordable choice for everyone. Adding to its appeal, Star Kombucha comes in 90% recyclable aluminium cans, making it an ecofriendly choice for consumers. It is available in leading supermarkets and major convenience stores nationwide such as Aeon, Aeon BiG, Aeon MaxValu, BIG, Emart24, Isetan, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Pandamart, Paris Baguette, 7- Eleven, Starbucks, Village Grocer and others. From left: Nyeow, Berjaya Food Bhd Group CEO Datuk Sydney Quays, Goody Group managing director Paul Nguyen and Aseana Goody Sdn Bhd marketing director Jonathan Bong during the media launch of Star Kombucha. TDM bags sustainability award, pledges to uphold SDG PETALING JAYA: TDM Bhd won the Sustainability Rising Star Award at the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability 2023 Awards (ACES 2023) on Friday, and it pledged its commitment to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG), comprising 17 goals that serve as benchmarks for development and sustainability. The recognition aligns with the company’s dedication to supporting environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives. Executive director Najman Kamaruddin said that being recognised as the Sustainability Rising Star at ACES 2023 holds significant meaning for them as it underscores their strong and persistent commitment to the sustainability of the company. “This acknowledgement does not only highlight TDM’s commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation but also positions us as a leader with responsible business practices in the palm oil and healthcare industries. TDM’s sustainability efforts are collective initiatives led by our board of directors, the Sustainability Committee, and the Sustainability Working Group, ensuring that sustainability remains a focal point integrated into the company’s longterm growth,” he added. Representing the company at the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability Awards ceremony and gala dinner were Medic Iman Group Sdn Bhd (KMI Healthcare) CEO Dr Rayney Azmi Ali and TDM Investment Performance Monitoring head Hasnol Zariman Mohd Hashim. Established in 1965, TDM is a syariah-compliant company listed on Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market primarily engaged in oil palm plantation and healthcare. It operates with holistic core values and syariah compliance, encompassing good governance, high innovation, integrity, environmental friendliness and a people-centric approach. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices is evident through its adherence to Malaysian and international standards, including certifications from the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil and Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil. YTL Power, Top Glove most active among M’sian issues THE fourth week of November saw overall turnover on the Malaysian warrants market jump by 30.3% to RM384.1 million week-on-week (w-ow), mainly contributed by trading in issues over the Hang Seng Index (HSI). Warrants over the HSI posted a 21.8% increase w-o-w, making up the largest percentage of turnover at 81.5% with up to RM312.9 million in value traded. Meanwhile, turnover for warrants over Malaysian shares saw a 97.4% rise to RM68.3 million from RM34.6 million the previous week. It was a rather volatile week for HSI futures, with prices starting on a stronger note to close 1.6% higher at 17,765 on Monday before inching down by 0.1% on Tuesday after retracing from an intraday high of 18,098 to end at 17,749. On Wednesday, the futures ended up flat following a choppy session, fluctuating within a range of 17,628 to 17,821, ahead of the release of key corporate earnings . Nevertheless, the futures closed 0.9% higher on Thursday, only to give back all gains to retreat 1.8% on Friday, finishing the week 0.6% higher at 17,591. The volatile moves contributed to trading interest in both HSI calls and puts. The January expiry call warrants HSI-CR5 and HSI-CRZ took the top two spots in the list, logging up to RM94.8 million and RM77.1 million in value. In terms of volume, HSI-HN6 was the most active, clocking up 410.1 million units traded followed by HSICRZ and HSI-CR5 with 338.5 million units and 319.4 million units hands, respectively. On the local front, call warrants over YTL Power International (YTLPOWR) and Top Glove Corporation (TOPGLOV) were popular among investors. The shares of YTLPOWR were down by 4.6% w-o-w, closing at RM2.28 last Friday, giving back some of their gains from the previous week while TOPGLOV finished the week higher by 14.7%. YTLPOWR-C33 and YTLPOWR-C38 recorded up to 15.1 million and 15.8 million units traded, respectively, while TOPGLOV-C3K saw up to 26.5 million units transacted for the week. To view the full list of structured warrants available on Bursa Malaysia, visit malaysiawarrants.com.my. Provided for Malaysian residents’ information only. This commentary has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia. It is not an offer or recommendation to trade and is not research material. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. You should make your own assessment and seek professional advice. The warrants will not be offered to any US persons. Ibraco posts record high profit after tax for third quarter PETALING JAYA: Ibraco Bhd, a builder that pioneers’ townships in Sarawak, achieved a new high in profit after tax (PAT) of RM12.84 million for its third-quarter of the financial year ending Dec 31, 2023 (Q3’23), representing a 90% surge from RM6.75 million in the corresponding quarter of the preceding year. The growth was underpinned by a 91% increase in revenue for Q3’23 which was driven by the group’s property development and construction segment. The substantial increase in the property development segment revenue was primarily attributable to higher take-up rate and progress billings of the NorthBank commercial and serviced apartment project. Furthermore, the group’s construction segment registered higher revenue recognition from government construction contracts for the current quarter. The property development segment remains the main contributor, accounting for 69% of the group’s revenue followed by the construction segment at 25%. The Ibraco management said that in view of the industry-wide escalation in construction costs stemming from the surge in prices of primary commodities such as crude oil, steel bars, copper, and aluminium, the group has taken proactive steps to ensure consistent supply of integral building materials for its developments. Ibraco said it has expanded its ownership of these integral building materials as the group’s present operations include quarry operation and ready-mixed concrete as well as the upcoming steel pipe manufacturing. “In view of this, we are well positioned to weather these industry-wide volatilities moving forward which shall be further supplemented by our scheduled upcoming property development launches particularly from our flagship NorthBank development and the new township at Kota Samarahan,” it said. As of Sept 30, the company’s unbilled sales and outstanding order book stood at RM276.86 million and RM1.47 billion respectively. WARRANTS WATCH Top stock warrants by value traded: Warrant Value Issuer Exercise Expiry date name (RM’ mil) level HSI-CR5 94.8 Macquarie 18,600 30 Jan 2024 HSI-CRZ 77.1 Kenanga 19,500 30 Jan 2024 HSI-HPK 38.7 Macquarie 17,000 28 Dec 2023 HSI-HN6 14.3 Kenanga 17,000 29 Nov 2023 HSI-CTD 11.2 Macquarie 17,600 30 Jan 2024

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY 16 MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 Tale of two councils at Kota DamPETALING JAYA: Muhammad Izuan Ahmad Kasim has only been the state assemblyman for Kota Damansara for three months. But he has high aspirations for his constituents. Before Izuan was elected during the Selangor state election in August, he was a Shah Alam city councillor for 11 years. This shows he has the credentials and experience to deliver as a state representative. He said managing the affairs in Kota Damansara can be challenging as the constituency is located between Subang and Petaling Jaya. “As a result, I have to engage with two city councils – Petaling Jaya and Shah Alam.” As a public servant who is still new to the area, Izuan said he frequently engages with the community to learn about their concerns and problems. “It is important to engage with the community as I can get feedback from them. I can learn about their problems through direct engagement. “I have raised their feedback during such engagements with the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ), and am currently arranging an engagement session with the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA).” He said areas under MBPJ usually face issues with infrastructure and traffic congestion. However, Izuan said the communities living in areas under MBSA face more serious problems that have been neglected for years. “There is a lack of public schools in Shah Alam. This is very inconvenient for children as they need to travel far to attend school. “As this is a rural area, there is also a lack of public transport for the residents here. “Also, children have to get up as early as 5am, because they have to catch the bus an hour later. If they miss it, they will be late for school. “The operating buses will also take a huge detour before reaching the school due to it being the only serviceable line in that area. “This is a major issue that I will be discussing with MBSA during my coming engagement with the council.” Izuan said another problem faced by the community in areas under MBSA is poor internet coverage. “I have noticed that internet connectivity is poor, especially for Kampung Melayu Subang, which is located near the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport. “The residents there can hardly access basic internet, not to mention 4G. This affects schools and A rapidly growing Kota Damansara has become an attracrive option for homebuyers. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN oMuhammad Izuan strives to resolve issues faced by constituents with MBPJ and MBSA █ BYALLEN WONG [email protected] companies in the area. “I have sent a report to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to look into this matter and improve the infrastructure for the community there,” he said. Through constituent engagement, Izuan learned of the plight of families bringing up children with special needs. “The schools in this area lack proper facilities to teach and guide special needs children, who require early education. “Unlikely others, these children are slow learners. However, they get to access education only when they reach seven.” Izuan said upgrading school facilities to meet the requirements of Rapidly growing township attractive choice for homebuyers KOTA DAMANSARA has emerged as an affordable alternative to its more mature and affluent neighbours such as Mutiara Damansara and TTDI. Its proximity to established neighbourhoods makes Kota Damansara an attractive choice for homebuyers with access to excellent amenities and well-developed malls. The township itself is rapidly maturing with focus on development in recent years. The newly opened Tropicana Gardens Mall contributes over a million square feet of retail space. This lifestyle development includes new apartment blocks in Kota Damansara. Alongside the established Encorp Strand Mall and Sunway Giza Mall, residents enjoy a diverse range of retail, entertainment, and food and beverage offerings. Entertainment options abound with the TGV Cinema at Encorp Strand Mall, The Kids indoor playground and the popular gym CHI Fitness. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Kota Damansara Forest Reserve, which offers over 800 acres of natural space and hiking trails. For golfers, the Tropicana Golf & Country Resort provides a manicured outdoor experience with lush green fairways. Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy Malaysia’s largest futsal venue, Sports Planet, which has badminton courts, netball courts and table tennis areas. Food lovers find Kota Damansara enticing with its diverse cuisine offerings. From popular food options at malls such as Sunway Giza Mall to cafes and restaurants, the local food scene is well patronised. Giant Kota Damansara and Village Grocer at Sunway Giza Mall cater to grocery needs, offering a range from staples to imported goods. Families exploring the neighbourhood have access to various government and private educational institutions. Private schools such as Sri KDU School, Hornsbridge International and International Islamic School Kota Damansara, along with SEGI University Kota Damansara, provide educational options. Connectivity is excellent, thanks to the proximity to Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong Highway and the North Klang Valley Expressway. Public transport is efficient, with MRT Kota Damansara serving stations on the MRT Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line, connecting to national KTM rail services and the KLIA Ekspres service. The Surian MRT on the south side provides alternative access, linking to the Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line. Alongside RapidKL bus services, Kota Damansara is wellconnected to Subang Skypark and Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport, just a 15-minute drive away, facilitating domestic and limited international flights. Izuan meets his constituents regularly to learn of the problems they face.

COMMUNITY COMMUNITY 17 MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 special needs children will be one of his major focus points during his tenure. “Under the Selangor budget for 2024, funds will be allocated to build a new block dedicated to children with special needs, starting from Sekolah Kebangsaan Seksyen Empat. “Once the project is completed, children with special needs as young as four years old will gain access to the required education.” One of Izuan’s achievements when he was a city councillor was to implement flood mitigation projects through the Shah Alam Sustainable Urban Drainage Master Plan (Sasud). “After the devastating floods in 2021, we worked hard and held much discussion to ensure the problem will not recur,” he said. Izuan pointed out that Sasud is a RM115.3 million project that involves three phases. It includes infrastructural development to improve the flow and release of rainwater, an early warning system and monitoring systems that utilise artificial intelligence. “Drains around those flood-prone areas have been upgraded from 20 to 30 average recurrence interval (ARI) to 100 ARI to cope with the increased rainfall.” Water pumps are also installed in low-lying areas such as Taman Sri Muda. Even though the flood problem is still apparent, it is a lot better than before, he said. Izuan added that he is targeting to install the same system in flood-prone Kota Damansara, which falls under MBSA. Another highlight of Izuan’s contributions is his initiative to encourage recycling among the Shah Alam community, especially in Bukit Jelutong. “We collaborated with Nestle Malaysia for this initiative through a memorandum of understanding. “Nestle will send a truck to housing areas to collect recyclable items. “As a reward to residents who contributed the most recyclable items, we give them 99 Speedmart shopping vouchers.” Izuan said he aims to spread this initiative to the rest of Selangor, and eventually make it a nationwide project. Going forward, Izuan said his plan is to climb the political ladder and serve the people at the national level. “To be an assemblyman at the age of 32 is an achievement. For this, I am grateful for my party and the people who voted for me. “For now, I want to do my best to serve as the Kota Damansara assemblyman. Eventually, I wish to take on a central position so that I can continue s e r v i n g t h e people on a higher level.” mansara State rep zooms in on comprehensive public infrastructure Izuan has made a firm commitment to focusing on local issues and solutions. PETALING JAYA: The already thriving and diverse town of Kota Damansara, with its modern amenities, green spaces and strong community ties, is anticipated to undergo more development in the coming months. Its state representative, Muhammad Izuan Kasim, is unwavering in his belief that comprehensive public infrastructure, especially vital connecting routes, is necessary in light of the upcoming projects in the area, particularly the mixed commercial project, Kwasa Damansara. The proposed township is earmarked to sit adjacent to both the Kota Damansara and Subang Bestari townships, which come under the administration of his state constituency. Izuan stressed the importance of ensuring that the interconnecting roads linking these townships are planned and built well, ahead of Kwasa Damansara’s aggressive construction timeline, which sets its opening for 2030. He said this would improve traffic flow and avoid future congestion issues. “There are three ‘missing links’ that have yet to be constructed in these areas. They are supposed to be built by the Shah Alam City Council in collaboration with the developers and the Public Works Department. “Two of these roads have not been constructed by developers because that particular area hasn’t been developed, but this affects the residents of both Subang Bestari and Kota Damansara and even those in Subang Perdana,” he told Selangor Journal recently. Izuan said although the project is slated to be completed by 2030, he is determined to work closely with the local council and the state administration to see that the proposed roads are built. “The road connecting Persiaran Cakerawala and Kwasa Land Sdn Bhd will help reduce traffic congestion in Subang Bestari. This is one of the long-term plans for Subang Bestari, at the very least,” he said. The Kwasa Damansara township, spearheaded by the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) with its new headquarters serving as a key landmark there, occupies a total land area of about 1,064ha, comprising both freehold and leasehold properties. The EPF Tower, which was completed in June last year, sits on a Connectivity at Kota Damansara is excellent, thanks to its proximity to highways. Izuan says upgrading school facilities to meet the requirements of special needs children is one of his major focus points during his tenure. – SUNPIC BY ADIB RAWI The state assemblyman gives an elder a helping hand during one of his meet-thepeople sessions. 2.1ha plot. Kwasa Damansara is set to become one of the most environmentally friendly townships in the Klang Valley, with green buildings and conservation efforts aimed at preserving and enhancing the biodiversity of the township. For Kota Damansara, at least in the immediate term, Izuan said he is advocating the maintenance of Persiaran Mahogani, which is considered a main road that connects the major neighbourhoods and roads there. Izuan explained that as of this year, according to the Malaysian Road Records Information, there has yet to be a resurfacing project scheduled for Persiaran Mahogani, something which he will rectify. Since his election as the Kota Damansara assemblyman on Aug 21, Izuan has hit the ground running. Aside from making development plans, he is also embarking on a constituency-wide tour of focal points in the community to engage with the locals. Among his first stops are schools, where he aims to understand the challenges faced by teachers and to also listen to concerns voiced by parents. “The education issue is intrinsically linked to today’s schools, and I aim to identify the problems they encounter. These include concerns voiced by head teachers and parents, not solely about infrastructure but also regarding potential community collaborations. “Beyond the usual concerns about infrastructure and basic learning necessities, some schools, for instance, have autism classes that desperately need air-conditioning. “Without it, students may become agitated, particularly in the heat. Similarly, there are motor skills classes; it’s not solely about reading, but also providing classes tailored to their motor skill needs,” he said. Izuan is also touring local mosques, which have evolved beyond just places of religious congregation to become comprehensive community hubs, each facing its own set of unique challenges. “We cannot ignore that 60% of Kota Damansara’s population is Malay. Mosques aren’t merely places of worship; they’ve transformed into allencompassing community centres. “These particular mosques predominantly serve the elderly, and through my visits, I’ve gained insight into the wider community issues that necessitate support,” he said. Moving forward, Izuan is keen to engage with local youth associations established within Kota Damansara rather than the major organisations based in the state. “This is because I want to understand their concerns and the challenges they face here and how I can support or assist them,” he said. During the election campaign in August, Izuan made a firm commitment to concentrating on local issues and solutions, steering clear of race and religious debates. Despite concerns about his status as a non-local, the 32-year-old has emphasised his dedication to community service. His campaign slogan, “Kota Damansara, Our City”, underscores his proactive approach towards constituency work. Izuan won the state seat with a 5,694-vote majority against his closest rival, Radzlan Jalaludin, from Perikatan Nasional. – Selangor Journal

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 18 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Sri Lanka likely to approve Sinopec’s refinery proposal COLOMBO: Sri Lanka will likely approve a proposal from Chinese state refiner Sinopec to build a US$4.5 billion (RM21 billion) refinery, the South Asian island nation’s energy minister said. “It’s on the agenda for Monday. Once the Cabinet gives approval, we will invite them to sign the agreement,” Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera told Reuters on Saturday. Sri Lanka, trying to recover from its worst economic crisis in more than 70 years, is hungry for new investment and local fuel supplies. Sinopec’s investment of at least US$4.5 billion “will go up in value as and when they do additions, but they must first come and sign the agreement for us to give any more details”, Wijesekera said. For Sinopec, the world’s top refinery by capacity and one of the largest petrochemical makers, the investment would mark a breakthrough in a long effort to expand beyond China’s borders. It owns refinery assets in Saudi Arabia and petrochemicals production in Russia. The Sri Lanka investment follows state-run China Merchant Port Holdings’ 99-year lease at Hambantota port and a US$392 million deal to build a logistics and storage hub in Colombo port, Chinese state media reported in April. That fits into Beijing’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, billed as recreating the ancient Silk Road to boost global trade infrastructure, experts say. Sinopec will start basic engineering design, including finalising the size of the refinery and technical configuration, after getting official approval, a senior company official told Reuters this month. Jaber says he is hopeful that COP28 will be the multilateral platform that will deliver good news to the world. – AFPPIC oMinister says US$4.5b project is ‘on the agenda’ for today COP28 president ‘cautiously optimistic’ on success of key climate conference PARIS: The United Arab Emirates’ Sultan Al Jaber, the president of the forthcoming UN climate conference in Dubai, is “cautiously optimistic” that the pivotal talks will be successful, he told AFP in an interview. Jaber, CEO of Emirati oil giant Adnoc, said he would hold “everyone” accountable for keeping within reach the target set by the 2015 Paris Agreement of limiting the rise in the Earth’s average temperature to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. COP28 is due to start in Dubai in five days’ time. How far are we from reaching a consensus? I am cautiously optimistic. You can see and feel the great momentum we have – the transitional committee (responsible for setting up a fund to help vulnerable countries cope) has resulted in a very positive outcome. I have conducted a very successful visit to the European Union, when they (made) a significant financial commitment to support the establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund. You have seen the announcements made by the United States and China and how they’re cooperating in the lead-up to COP28. Huawei to move smart car operations to new joint company with Changan BEIJING: China’s Huawei said yesterday it will move core technologies and resources in its smart car unit, which has chalked up robust sales for a number of new vehicles, to a new joint company owned up to 40% by automaker Changan Auto. The new company will engage in research and development, production, sales and service of intelligent automotive systems and component solutions, Huawei said in a press release. “The new company will ... work with partners to promote innovation and leadership in smart car technology and promote the prosperity and development of the automotive industry,” the release said. The equity ratio and amount of capital contributed will be negotiated by the two parties, Chongqing Changan Automobile said in a filing with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange yesterday. “The two parties will jointly support the target company to become an industry leader in automotive intelligent systems and component solutions based in China,” the filing said. Huawei managing director and chairman of the smart car solutions unit Yu Chengdong said at a signing ceremony in Shenzhen that the smartphone manufacturer would work with more auto firms to “seize the opportunities of the electrification and intelligent transformation of the auto industry”, the press release said. Huawei has repeatedly said it does not make cars on its own but only helps other automakers make better vehicles. It has an existing partnership with Changan as well as other companies, including Seres Group. Huawei and Seres jointly produce Aito branded cars, including the M7 model. Huawei has also built the S7 sedan with Chinese automaker Chery under a new marquee, Luxeed, that it intends to position as a competitor to Tesla’s Model S. Huawei said in October it had received more than 50,000 orders for its revamped M7 model during the first 25 days of sales, which would put Aito among China’s five top-selling new energy vehicle manufacturers based on August data. – Reuters B R I E F SCHINA POLICE START PROBE INTO DEBT-HIT WEALTH MANAGER BEIJING: Chinese police have opened an investigation into Zhongzhi Enterprise Group after the debt-ridden financial giant declared itself insolvent. Police in Beijing, where the group is headquartered, said late Saturday they had opened an investigation into unspecified “alleged offences”, adding that they had taken measures against several suspects. Zhongzhi declared itself insolvent on Wednesday with its arrears estimated at nearly US$66 billion (RM309 billion), according to a letter to investors cited by local media. The firm has sizeable exposure to China’s real estate sector and is a major player in China’s US$3 trillion shadow banking sector – roughly the size of the French economy. During China's real estate boom, many developers used Zhongzhi to finance their projects. – AFP, Reuters SIGNA IN LAST-DITCH FUNDING TALKS: BLOOMBERG NEWS BENGALURU: Signa, Austria’s largest privately-owned real estate company, is holding lastditch talks with investors, hoping to secure a funding lifeline and avoid a wave of insolvencies, Bloomberg News reported on Saturday. One unit of the sprawling conglomerate founded by Austrian tycoon Rene Benko already filed for insolvency on Friday, and further notifications may follow in coming weeks, the report added, citing two people with direct knowledge of Signa’s efforts. Recent negotiations to meet up to €600 million (RM3 billion) in immediate funding needs have hit a roadblock, while some discussions are ongoing and other options are being considered. Signa did not immediately respond to a Reuters’ request for comment. – Reuters The investment will add to Sinopec’s recently started fuel retailing business, the third international company with a foothold in Sri Lanka, with a license to operates 150 petrol stations. In August Sinopec and commodities trader Vitol were shortlisted by the Sri Lankan government to bid for the refinery. Vitol subsequently dropped out, the Sinopec official said. The refinery may target markets beyond Sri Lanka, where local fuel consumption is low, and use its partnership with China Merchants Port to expand bunker fuel supply at Hambantota, a deep-sea port near busy shipping lanes between Europe and Asia, analysts say. Sinopec’s fuel oil division, which runs the retail business there, began in 2019 supplying marine bunker fuel at Hambantota, another Sinopec official said. Sri Lanka’s refinery at Sapugaskanda, commissioned in 1969, can process 38,000 barrels of oil a day. – Reuters You have seen the OECD report in regard to the US$100 billion (RM468 million) – the amount rich countries have committed to providing each year for climate action in poorer nations. I was very pleased and encouraged by the signals that came out of the USChina meetings (in November). There is a clear understanding between both that they will work in a collaborative manner to ensure the success (of) COP28. I want a high ambition outcome at COP28. And I do expect that we will be able to collectively agree on a tangible climate action plan. We are making very good progress across energy, finance, health, food and nature agendas. How do the Israel-Hamas war and other international crises affect the COP talks? I am hopeful that COP28 will be the multilateral platform that will deliver good news to the world. The world has had enough of polarisation and divide. How do you see this COP summit compared to COP21 that led to the Paris Agreement in 2015? We are halfway from Paris to 2030. We have had seven years and we will have another seven years. So this is an inflection point. This is the most consequential COP since Paris. And it is our responsibility to make sure that we maximise the ambition coming out of COP28. You consistently say the negotiations are driven by the parties, the nation states, but your predecessor in Paris, Laurent Fabius, says a COP president can have a major impact on unblocking negotiations. I have been very clear from day one that while this is a party-driven process and I will enable all parties to engage and to collaborate ... I will hold everyone and every industry responsible and accountable for keeping (the) 1.5°C within reach. I have learned over the past year that I need to give the process its time and I need to help rebuild trust and deliver action by being cooperative and being inclusive. Will fossil fuels be the most contentious issue? It is actually up to the parties to align on any language related to any of the pillars or the negotiated outcomes. For fossil fuels, I have extended an open invitation to all parties to convene, to discuss, to cooperate, and to come back with recommendations that have common ground and consensus that can be recommended to the presidency. Q: Many people are alarmed by the massive presence of industry lobbyists at COP28 and their power to influence the negotiations. Everyone needs to be part of this process and everyone needs to be held responsible and ... accountable. That includes all industries and in particular heavy emitting industries like aviation, transport aluminium, cement, steel, as well as oil and gas industry. What progress would you like to see on climate finance, a key negotiating issue between North and South? The climate finance challenge is a top priority ... we must continue to progress on looking for finance to support the transition (to clean energy). I’m also hearing positive responses to my inquiries to many countries. There will be some other commitments. I believe we will see further momentum on Green Climate Fund replenishment and on the global goal on adaptation. – AFP

BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [ Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shalll not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. GENTING MALAYSIA Bhd’s (GenM) results were in-line with our expectations. 3Q23 core net profit of RM237.6m (+120% YoY, +97% QoQ) brought 9M23 core net profit to RM400.4m (+226% YoY) which was in-line, at 70% of our FY estimate. 9M23 ebitda of RM2.08b (+21% YoY) was also within our expectations at 74% of our FY estimate. No dividends were declared but they are traditionally declared in the Q2 and Q4. Q3’23 RWG visitor arrivals, while flat QoQ at 5.4 million, was well above the Q1’23 low of 4.7 million which indicates to us that lingering fears over the Batang Kali landslide have subsided. With 9M23 RWG visitor arrivals at 15.7m or 75% of our FY estimate, we are comfortable with our earnings estimates. Going into Q4’23, we expect it to be seasonally strong for RWG thanks to the year-end holidays but weaker for its American operations due to winter. Over in the US, GenM stated that it:- (i) is still attempting to sell its land in Miami, Florida (negotiations to sell it for US$1.2 billion fell through in June); and (ii) submitted its second round of questions to the New York State Gaming Commission in the latter’s Request For Applications for a downstate commercial casino license in New York City and expects a response soon. We maintain our earnings estimates, BUY call and MYR2.70 DCF-TP. Over in the United States, GenM is still attempting to sell its Miami land to partially finance its application for a downstate commercial casino license in New York City. – (Nov 24, 2023) PRICE controls and subsidies on chicken were lifted on Nov 1, 2023. Meanwhile, price controls and subsidies on eggs remain. We believe that this is positive for Leong Hup International Bhd (LHI) in Malaysia from Q4 FY23 onwards as LHI has more flexibility to adjust prices in response to input costs as well as supply and demand forces. Note that 26% of LHI total FY22 revenue was contributed by Malaysian operations. We raised our earnings projections for FY23F-25F by 10.1% / 9.8% / 2.7%, respectively. This was after factoring in (1) higher revenue in the Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam operations, and (2) slightly lower raw material costs due to falling global corn and soybean meal prices that more than offset the US$/RM exchange rate. We also changed our valuation from the 3-year historical -1SD of 8.3x to the 3-year historical -0.5SD of 12x. This was after considering the positive outlook for the 3 segments mentioned above, which more than offset the ongoing price controls for eggs in Malaysia in the near term. Our revised TP is based on an FY24F PER of 12x (-0.5SD 3-year historical PE) pegged to a revised FY24F EPS of 6.6 sen (up from 6 sen). We turned positive on the margin improvement for LHI Malaysia operation ahead, driven by the removal of price controls on chicken and the softening of global commodity prices for chicken feed. Besides, the improving operational outlook in Vietnam and Indonesia will also further improve revenue and earnings. We are also optimistic that the Singapore operations will continue to thrive in FY24 following the removal of the export ban on broiler chicken from Malaysia to Singapore. Hence, we upgrade our call to BUY from NEUTRAL with a higher TP of RM0.80 (from RM0.50). – (Nov 24, 2023) YTL Power International’s (YTL Power) Bhd 1QFY24 revenue increased 14.8% YoY driven by growth in all four segments. Notably, Investment Holdings segment’s revenue more than doubled due to higher shareholder loan interest income from Attarat Power. Consequently, PBT more than quadrupled on the back of greater interest income from Investment Holdings segment and better margins from Power Seraya which we believe is due to higher tariffs from retail sales contracts. We expect weaker performance for power generation in 2H FY24 due to the expiration of retail electricity sales contract with higher tariffs. However, with the National Energy Transition Roadmap and finalisation of mechanism of renewable energy exchange hub, this should benefit YTL Power via export of renewable energy to Singapore. For the water and sewerage segment, the group has submitted its business plan for 2025-2030 to Ofwat in October 2023. Wessex Water is expected to register narrower losses in the coming quarter as energy cost trends downwards. With the extension of 5G services in tandem with DNB’s nationwide rollout, the telecommunications segment could gain more subscribers in the coming quarters. Nonetheless, we believe the segment is unlikely to turn to PBT yet in the near term. We are upbeat on the 500MW Green Data Centre project. Of note, its 48MW IT Load Hyperscale Data Centre already has Sea Limited as its anchor (taking up 32MW) and is currently under phase 1 of development (8MW). The Data centre is expected to be ready for service by Q1 CY’24. We roll forward our base year for DCF valuation to FY24 and raise our TP for YTL Power to RM2.60/share (previous: RM2.40/share) based on SOP valuation. Maintain Buy recommendation. – (Nov 24, 2023) FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.751 4.615 4.605 1 Australian Dollar 3.139 3.013 2.997 1 Brunei Dollar 3.547 3.442 3.434 1 Canadian Dollar 3.468 3.374 3.362 1 Euro 5.192 5.024 5.004 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.889 2.781 2.765 1 Papua N Guinea Kina N/A N/A N/A 1 Singapore Dollar 3.547 3.442 3.434 1 Sterling Pound 5.960 5.775 5.755 1 Swiss Franc 5.357 5.235 5.220 100 UAE Dirham 130.970 124.140 123.940 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.393 4.106 3.906 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.500 64.000 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.390 65.680 65.480 100 Hongkong Dollar 61.610 58.530 58.330 100 Indian Rupee 5.800 5.440 5.240 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.032 0.029 0.024 100 Japanese Yen 3.182 3.080 3.070 100 New Taiwan Dollar 16.100 N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 45.340 41.690 41.490 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.730 1.600 1.400 100 Philippine Peso 8.710 8.210 8.010 100 Qatar Riyal 131.500 124.840 124.640 100 Saudi Riyal 128.150 121.650 121.450 100 South Africa Rand 26.210 23.660 23.460 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.490 1.370 1.170 100 Thai Baht 14.070 12.480 12.080 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit eases against dollar, weighed down by CPI data KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit settled lower against the US dollar at the close on Friday, dragged down by the consumer price index (CPI) data which moderated in October 2023, an analyst said. At 6pm, the ringgit dropped to 4.6830/6875 against the greenback from Thursday’s close of 4.6775/6830. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the latest CPI print at 1.8% for October suggests that the real rate of interest has increased, indicating the monetary policy has become increasingly restrictive. “Therefore, the upside potential for overnight policy rate looks rather limited at this juncture although Bank Negara Malaysia remains guarded on inflationary risks,” he told Bernama. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, Malaysia’s headline inflation, as measured by the CPI, moderated to 1.8% in October 2023, the lowest since April 2021, with the CPI at 130.9 points against 128.6 in the same month a year ago. At the close, the ringgit was traded mostly higher versus a basket of major currencies. It appreciated against the euro at 5.1059/1108 from 5.1092/1152 on Thursday, climbed versus the Japanese yen to 3.1295/1327 from 3.1342/1381 but fell vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.8767/8823 from 5.8740/8809. The local note traded mixed against other Asean currencies. It inched up versus the Singapore dollar to 3.4903/4940 from 3.4922/4969 and was firmer versus the Thai baht at 13.1949/2139 from 13.2601/2813. However, the local note weakened against the Philippine peso to 8.45/8.46 from 8.44/8.46 yesterday and was flat vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah at 300.8/301.3 from 300.6/301.2 previously. IOI Properties’ Q1 net profit slips to RM174.4 million KUALA LUMPUR: IOI Properties Group Bhd’s net profit for the first quarter ended Sept 30, 2023 (Q1’24) slipped to RM174.44 million versus RM640.28 million registered in the same period a year ago, largely due to the weaker contribution from the property development segment. Revenue also decreased by 6% to RM648.04 million from RM691.52 million previously. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia Friday, the property developer said the property development segment recorded revenue and operating profit of RM451.4 million and RM101.3 million respectively in the current year quarter, which is 15% and 39% lower than the preceding year corresponding quarter, respectively. It said the lower financial performance in the current quarter is primarily attributed to reduced sales contribution from both Malaysia and China’s operations influenced by an interest rate hike in Malaysian operations and a cautious market outlook, prompting prospective purchasers in China to exercise prudence in their buying decisions. Nevertheless, it said the significant improvement of the property investment segment partially offsets the weaker performance of the property development segment. For Q1’24, the property development segment achieved sales of RM587 million. Local projects contributed RM572.6 million, which is 98% of the total sales, while overseas projects in China contributed RM14.4 million, or the remaining 2%. On prospects, IOI Properties said its operating environment, both within and outside Malaysia, would continue to face some headwinds. YTL Power International Bhd Buy. Target price: RM2.60 Leong Hup International Bhd Buy. Target price: RM0.80 Genting Malaysia Bhd Buy. Target price: RM2.70 Source: Maybank IBG Research Source: MIDF Research Source: TA Securities Nov 24, 2023: RM2.65 Nov 24, 2023: RM2.28 Nov 24, 2023: RM0.71

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 22 10. Masamune The Masamune, a famous katana, appears in a variety of titles, including Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger. Its origins may be traced back to Japanese culture and history and its incorporation in numerous games demonstrates its mythical relevance in the gaming world. Each legendary blade holds the key to u n r av e l l i n g t h e mysteries of gaming’s most immersive environments. The odyssey awaits and the power blades are ready to be drawn. These classic weapons not only carve a path through dungeons and dragons, but they also imprint themselves into the collective memory of gamers, eternally linked to tales of epic expeditions and the attraction of magical swords. The digital journey continues and each sword swing becomes a stroke on the canvas of gaming legends. demon, represent revenge and the endless conflict between light and darkness. 5. Master Sword Nintendo’s Legend of Zelda series, which debuted in 1986, follows Link’s adventures as he faces the evil Ganon. The Master Sword, first shown in A Link to the Past (1991), is a revered weapon destined to confront darkness and restore balance to Hyrule’s kingdom. 6. Dragon Slayer With its demanding gameplay and dramatic atmosphere, FromSoftware’s Dark Souls redefined action RPGs. The Dragon Slayer Greatsword is a famous weapon used by c h a r a c t e r s aiming to d e f e a t dangerous dragons, exemplifying the game’s concept of conquering a p p a r e n t l y i m p o s s i b l e obstacles. 7. Gunblade Final Fantasy VIII (1999), part of Square Enix’s famed Final Fantasy series, boasts a unique blend of fantasy and sci-fi elements. The Gunblade, wielded by protagonist Squall Leonhart, represents the game’s marriage of magic and futuristic technology within the framework of an epic love narrative. 8. Buster Sword Final Fantasy VII (1997) is a seminal title in the role-playing game genre. Cloud Strife’s Buster Sword is a renowned symbol of strength and endurance. Its design has come to be associated with the Final Fantasy franchise and gaming culture in general. 9. Keyblade The Kingdom Hearts series began in 2002 as a collaboration between Square Enix and Disney. The Keyblade wielded by the protagonist Sora is a mystical weapon capable of opening the hearts of worlds. In a unique crossover, the series explores the junction between Disney and Final Fantasy characters. @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Blades of power PLAYERS are heroes in h u g e s a d v e n t u r e , carrying swords that are more than simply weapons — they are conduits of power steeped in lore and legacy in the vast realms of multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs). These games immerse players in imaginative realms populated by magic, monsters and valour and the swords they wield become emblems of success, sorrow and the undying spirit of exploration. Join us on a magical voyage through Azeroth’s famous swords and beyond, where pixels transform into gateways to epic tales and each blade tells a story waiting to be revealed. 1. Ashbringer From the World of Warcraft (WoW), developed by Blizzard Entertainment and debuted in 2004, is a revolutionary MMORPG based in the high-fantasy world of Azeroth. The Ashbringer, a holy blade crafted to confront the undead scourge, is crucial to the WoW story, representing hope and retribution against the forces of darkness. 2. Frostmourne Frostmourne, another WoW character, is a malicious rune blade with a dark past. Its story is told in the expansion Wrath of the Lich King (2008), when players face off against the fallen prince Arthas Menethil. The cursed blade evokes both tragedy and the temptation of power. 3. Thunderfury The Thunderfury, introduced in the early days of WoW is a legendary sword that players can obtain by completing a difficult questline. Its design and narrative mirror the game’s e l e m e n t a l principles and its a c q u i s i t i o n remains a source of pride among WoW players. 4. Warglaives of Azzinoth The renowned dual swords known as the Warglaives of Azzinoth are linked with Illidan Stormrage, a prominent character in WoW. These weapons, crafted from the essence of a defeated Ashbringer is THE PURIFIER’S MIGHT (WORLD OF WARCRAFT). oLegendary swords of multiplayer online role-playing games █ BYACE EMERSON Thunderfury is the BLESSED BLADE OF THE WINDSEEKER. Dragon slayer is used to SLAY DRAGONS IN STYLE (DARK SOULS SERIES). The Master sword is THE SWORD OF EVIL’S BANE (THE LEGEND OF ZELDA SERIES). Gunblade - MERGING MAGIC AND TECHNOLOGY (FINAL FANTASY VIII). The Keyblade UNLOCKS THE HEART’S SECRETS (KINGDOM HEARTS SERIES). Warglaives of Azzinoth is the twin blades of demon slaying (World of Warcraft). Frostmourne is THE CURSED BLADE (WORLD OF WARCRAFT). Buster sword is the SYMBOL OF STRENGTH (FINAL FANTASY VII). Masamune is THE LEGENDARY KATANA (VARIOUS GAMES).

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 23 Suicide Squad details reveal ROCKSTEADY Games is once again trying to drum up excitement over the upcoming Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, which was announced all the way back in 2020 and then postponed multiple Other than Suicide Squad’s main characters, more may be added later. – PICS BY WARNER BROS. GAMES oDevelopers are not backing down from a live service model █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Leak on The Last of Us Remastered PAR for the course, developer Naughty Dog faced another leak over the weekend. Instead of a hacker like back in 2020, this time the leak was courtesy of the PlayStation Store, which accidentally revealed that The Last of Us Part 2 will have a remastered version out early next year. According to Polygon, the game’s information was in the PlayStation Store’s database at some point, which led to websites that track updates inadvertently scraping data about the upcoming game. These leaks were immediately confirmed by Naughty Dog, along with the confirmation that the release date is set for Jan 19, exclusively on the PlayStation 5. The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered will arrive bundled with a host of special features and an entirely new mode, “No Return”. Officially described as “a rogue-like survival mode designed to let players prove their mettle in randomised encounters and experience The Last of Us Part 2’s combat in a fresh experience”, the new mode will feature new playable characters with their own skill sets. That said, the trailer does not mention a Windows PC version for the remaster, at least for the moment. Due to Sony bringing many of its consoleexclusive games to the PC in recent years, anything PC-related for The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered will only be unveiled months after its PS5 release. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR The Last of Us 2 owners on the PS4 can upgrade to the PS5 version next year for a small fee. – SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT No more unauthorised controllers MICROSOFT is bringing the hammer down on unauthorised controllers and accessories. Players on the Xbox Series X/S consoles disclosed that they were getting error messages while trying to use off-brand controllers towards the end of October. First reported by Windows Central, the console warning states that “A connected accessory is not authorised,“ and below it, the message reads, “Using unauthorised accessories compromises your gaming experience. “For this reason, the unauthorised accessory will be blocked from use on Nov 12.” A spokesperson for Kotaku.com then confirmed that the ban would soon go into effect for performance, security and safety. “Microsoft and other licensed Xbox hardware partners’ accessories are designed and manufactured with quality standards for performance, security and safety. “Unauthorised accessories can compromise the gaming experience on Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S). Players may receive a pop-up warning that their accessory is unauthorised. “Eventually, the unauthorised accessory will be blocked from use to preserve the console gaming experience,” the statement read. The move by Microsoft is speculated to be the company blocking attempts to cheat in games through its consoles due to devices such as XIM and Cronus Zen, which allow players to modify their controller inputs. Unfortunately, the ban will affect all the non-cheating off-brand controllers and accessories. For instance, if someone’s official Xbox Series X/S controller breaks, they cannot get a cheaper alternative anymore due to the ban. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR The Xbox Series X/S joins the PlayStation 5 in allowing only officially licensed controllers and accessories. – MICROSOFT The game’s villains will be the mindcontrolled members of the Justice League. times to a release date early next year. In a new behind-the-scenes developer video available on YouTube, Rocksteady goes over the game’s narrative, the scale of the game’s map set in Metropolis and how the four playable villains have their own ways of navigating the city. The video also displayed some of the differences between the characters, such as Harley Quinn’s speed and flexibility providing a different experience compared to Deadshot, who is a little slower and uses a jetpack for omnidirectional mobility. Rocksteady also stressed that the game is indeed part of the Batman: Arkham Games universe. A glaring aspect that the developer did not cover, at least in this first video, is how the live-service part of Suicide Squad plays out, which still stands as the most controversial element of the game. Earlier this year, a screenshot from the game leaked, revealing that Suicide Squad will have battle passes, which, for those that do not know, means that the game will provide additional, exclusive content through a tiered system of unlocks that rewards players that pay extra for it. These include anything from weapon cosmetics to costumes and, sometimes, items that give an unfair advantage to players. After the leak, Rocksteady tried to divert attention by releasing the first gameplay footage from the game, which opened a different can of worms. Suicide Squad looked like any generic online shooting game on the market, which was a far cry from how the Batman: Arkham games were. After a few months of outrage by fans and critics, the developer postponed the game’s release from May this year to February next year. According to Kotaku, in a new press release that surfaced with the developer video, Suicide Squad will retain its battle pass (free and paid tiers), but the game’s seasonal updates will be free with new characters. The game is currently scheduled for a Feb 2 release next year on the PlayStation 5, Xbox One Series X/S and PC.

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 24 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Raid by scalpers again SONY’S new PlayStation Portal has sold out its new prime gaming hardware in just two days following its Nov 15 launch. O n l i n e m a r k e t p l a c e listings for the h a n d h e l d streaming device have exploded, indicating resellers snapped up most of the initial stock hoping to scalp regular purchases by marking up the price of the device. On sites like eBay, resellers have listed the device at prices ranging from US$300 (RM1400) to US$400 (RM1871). Normally, the portal only costs US$200 (RM935). This is nothing new in the gaming industry or among gamers. In fact, it happened to the PlayStation 5 when it launched in 2020. Due to the global chip shortage following the pandemic outbreak, there was only a limited amount of PS5s that could be manufactured worldwide and scalpers that bought out the initial and subsequent stocks held a death grip on the absurd pricing they were reselling the consoles for. But that was for the PS5, which was actually in-demand and continues to be so. On the other hand, the Portal is a very niche device. It cannot play games without first being paired to a PS5 and having a constant Internet connection and it cannot be played on-the-go like the Nintendo Switch and the Steam Deck OLED. This time, it seems like the resellers and scalpers have burned themselves by buying up a device that is not even in extreme demand. █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR The Portal can only be used with a PS5 nearby. – SONY oEmbark on multiple lifetimes as danger lurks beneath The Lost Caverns of Ixalan WIZARDS of the Coast (SEA) unveiled the latest expansion for the trading card game Magic: The Gathering (MTG). Titled The Lost Caverns of Ixalan (LCI), returning players and newcomers can embark on a thrilling adventure in the prehistoricinspired realm of Ixalan, where mysterious underground caverns promise treasure and peril. The race to uncover the source of Ixalan’s power unfolds as four rival factions delve into the depths of the Lost Caverns. Players can align themselves with the Dinosaurs of the Sun Empire, the Brazen Coalition of Pirates, the Legion of Dusk revelling in demonic shadows, or the shamanistic Merfolk answering the call of the depths. Each faction is represented in preconstructed commander decks, offering a seamless experience for both new and seasoned players. The prerelease festivities kicked off on Nov 10, building anticipation for the official release on Nov 17. As part of the celebration, an Open House event on Nov 15 welcomed new and current players at selected WPN Premium Stores and provided an opportunity for the players to explore the new expansion. Magic: The Gathering’s latest expansion, The Lost Caverns of Ixalan. - all pics by Wizards of the Coast █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ The narrative of LCI introduces the theme of descending into uncharted territory. The set introduces three new mechanics. First, Descend essentially creates triggering effects based on the number of permanents placed in the graveyard during a turn, paying homage to those who were lost. Second, Craft transforms artefact cards into potent items by paying mana and exiling required components, turning the mundane into the magnificent. Then finally, Discover allows players to exile cards from the top of their library until they find a non-land card of equal or lesser mana value, offering a unique approach to acquiring knowledge. The collaboration with Jurassic World adds an exciting dimension to the magic universe. The Universes Beyond collection features 26 collaboration cards, including iconic characters like Ellie and Alan, Ian Malcolm and the fearsome Tyrannosaurus. These cards can be found in Set Boosters, Collector Boosters and select Secret Lair drops. The introduction of Special Guests with powerful Masters release-level reprints brings a fresh aesthetic to familiar cards. These guests join the expeditions into the depths, contributing their unique and potent effects. Additionally, LCI includes powerful artefact reprints with stunning new art, available as nonfoil boxtoppers in Draft and Set Booster boxes and in traditional foil in Collector Booster boxes. Collector Boosters also offer exclusive styles such as Cosmium Neon Ink cards, showcasing the natural beauty of Ixalan. The gods of Ixalan make their presence known with showcase frames that capture the horrific beauty of the underworld. Collectors can also discover Mesoamerican and Travel Poster Basic Lands, Extended Art, Borderless Treatments and more throughout all LCI boosters. In October, SEA introduced Deeproot Pilgrimage, a mesmerising card set within the LCI. It is a game-changing force, set to breathe new life and excitement into an already acclaimed card game. For further details on participating stores, interested players can refer to the Wizards Store Locator. To stay informed about The Lost Caverns of Ixalan, including product details and updates, visit Magic: The Gathering’s official website, magic.wizards.com/en/products/the-lostcaverns-of-ixalan. Nostalgia and riches await Huatli, Poet of Unity. Wizards of the Coast (SEA)’s Deeproot Pilgrimage. – REMI JACQUOT/WIZARDS OF THE COAST Jurassic World Ellie and Alan, Paleontologists. New and experienced players exploring The Lost Caverns of Ixalan, released worldwide on Nov 17 for tabletop.

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 25 THE enigmatic Mark Harmon’s decision to join the cast of NCIS held a unique allure, as the 72-year-old actor revealed a special reason behind his choice to portray Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs since the series premiered in 2003. Harmon disclosed that the character’s distinctive name initially caught his attention. “When I first read the script, I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did,“ Harmon admitted, explaining that while juggling various readings and a desire to spend more time at home with his young family, the name “Leroy Jethro Gibbs” resonated with him. The actor confessed, “I liked that name,“ and, for a fleeting moment, faced the prospect of a name change to something like “Bob Johnson.” However, he insisted, “No, it’s got to be Leroy Jethro Gibbs.” Harmon’s determination prevailed and the character retained the name that captivated him. In a recent interview, Harmon further unveiled his motivation for committing to the series, emphasising the importance of being present for Saturday breakfasts with his wife, Pam Dawber and their kids. Despite the sacrifices, such as occasionally forgoing sleep, Harmon found fulfilment in making pancakes and being an active part of his family’s life. Harmon bid farewell to NCIS in the fourth episode of the 19th season, with his character choosing to stay in Alaska indefinitely after resolving a case. Reflecting on his departure in a special featurette for the show’s season 19 DVD release, he expressed satisfaction with the character’s trajectory and noted that Gibbs, while living in Alaska, is not retired. Addressing the possibility of a return, Harmon claims that he remains open to the idea, joking about Gibbs possibly fishing in an Alaskan stream. He emphasised the character’s uncertain future but clarified that if there were plans for Gibbs to return, he was unaware of them. Apart from his acting endeavours, Harmon recently released his non-fiction book, Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, a Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor. Reflecting on NCIS’s success and approaching its 20th anniversary, he praised the dedicated team’s hard work and acknowledged that the long-lasting impact of the show exceeded initial expectations. – BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ DiCaprio’s goal before 50 oLatifah partners with Lenovo to empower small businesses NCIS character name hooks Harmon AS Leonardo DiCaprio approaches his 50th birthday, the actor revealed his aspirations for the coming year during an interview with ABC News’ Chris Connelly on Good Morning America. Despite already immersing himself in the making of Killers of the Flower Moon, a film he discussed alongside co-star Lily Gladstone, DiCaprio expressed a desire to tackle one more movie before reaching the milestone. In an exclusive preview of the conversation, the 49-year-old Oscar winner shared his goal of returning to the screen for another role. Reflecting on the passage of time, Connelly, 66, playfully questioned DiCaprio about reaching the age of 49, to which the actor admitted to being perplexed, recalling their initial interviews dating back three decades. Killers of the Flower Moon, DiCaprio’s latest collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese, explores the true story of the Reign of Terror, a series of gruesome murders targeting the Osage Nation in the 1920s. In the film, DiCaprio portrays Ernest Burkhart, a white man entangled in a conspiracy to murder members of the wealthy Osage Nation for their oil rights. The dark and intense nature of the film has garnered praise from critics and audiences, with some describing it as the most sinister movie ever made about the West and a deeply pessimistic portrayal of the American character. While DiCaprio’s on-screen endeavours delve into darker realms, his off-screen life radiates joy. Celebrating his recent 49th birthday with a star-studded party in Beverly Hills, he was joined by Italian model Vittoria Ceretti, sparking rumors of a romantic connection since August. The festivities included notable guests such as Jay-Z, Beyonce, Snoop Dogg, Tobey Maguire, Taika Waititi, Axl Rose and Lil Wayne. Reports from the soiree described DiCaprio and Ceretti as affectionate and kissing throughout the night, with the actor even being joyfully lifted and carried around the room at one point. As DiCaprio continues to navigate the worlds of film and celebration, his focus on squeezing in one more movie before hitting 50 showcases his enduring passion for the craft. Killers of the Flower Moon is currently captivating audiences in theatres, and DiCaprio looks forward to what lies ahead as he anticipates his milestone birthday. – BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ Embracing AI ethically Harmon on NCIS. – PIC BY MONTY BRINTON/CBS VIA GETTY DiCaprio. – PIC BY CORBIS/CORBIS VIA GETTY EMBRACING Artificial Intelligence (AI) for positive endeavours, Queen Latifah has aligned herself with technology giant Lenovo’s Evolve Small initiative. The Equalizer star leverages her digital persona to support small businesses, collaborating with Lenovo to champion enterprises in various major cities through AI-customised advertisements on social media and billboards. Reflecting on her experience launching a music management company, Flava Unit, in the late 80s and early 90s, Latifah understands the challenges faced by startups. Managing renowned artists such as SWV, Naughty By Nature and Monica, she appreciates the struggles entrepreneurs encounter to keep their ventures afloat. As the ambassador for Lenovo’s Evolve Small, Latifah, an Emmy and Grammyaward winner, extends her influence to businesses in Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, Raleigh, Toronto and Los Angeles. Through AI, her digital representation becomes the face of select enterprises, offering tailored promotions without the need for extensive travel or lengthy video production. Expressing concerns about AI, Latifah acknowledges the importance of discussions regarding the ethical use of her image and likeness. However, she emphasises the benefits of AI, especially in giving back to minority-owned, women-led and disability-affiliated businesses that may not have the resources for conventional promotions. While the star underscores her perpetual concerns about AI, she believes its positive application is inevitable. Her commitment lies in utilising the technology to assist and uplift others, particularly within the small business sector, which she deems crucial to the economy. Addressing the need for stringent regulations, Latifah supports comprehensive parameters, especially within Hollywood. Endorsing the stance of the Screen Actors Guild American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), she emphasises the necessity of protecting individuals from the perpetual recreation of their likeness without consent. Latifah expresses satisfaction with the resolution of recent strikes within her union. She recognises the critical nature of these negotiations for the industry’s future, highlighting the importance of finding common ground and ensuring agreements that safeguard the rights of performers in an era dominated by transformative technologies. Latifah joins Lenovo’s Evolve Small Initiative, harnessing AI for positive impact. – PIC BY LENOVO █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ

LYFE LYFE MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 26 common, Budak Flat takes a unique twist in its storyline, adding an extra layer of intrigue that sets it apart. It is this subtle tweaking of the plot that makes the movie particularly compelling for audiences, offering a fresh take on familiar themes and keeping viewers hooked from start to finish. At its core, the film explores the clash of evils, revealing the genuine conflicts that are caused by the forces of money, power and influence. It serves as a poignant reflection on how these factors can profoundly impact the lives of individuals. The movie goes beyond the surface of action and gangsterism, delving into the complexities of human choices and the consequences that follow, making it a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Genuinely depict nature Budak Flat meticulously captures the nuances of life in low-cost flat apartments, paying attention to even the smallest details. From major concerns like broken lifts and water shortages to delving into the mindset of the residents, where the emphasis on money as the be-all and end-all is evident, the movie skillfully explores how these individuals navigate challenges and cope with problems, shedding light on the gritty reality of their daily lives. The portrayal of gangsterism and group dynamics adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative, reflecting the harsh realities that some might see as a guide, though perhaps not the most advisable path. The film becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of existence in these living conditions, where the struggle for survival shapes the choices people make and the communities they form. In capturing these elements, Budak Flat goes beyond being a mere action film, offering a raw and insightful glimpse into the intricate tapestry of life in such settings. A perfect balance of action and drama Budak Flat does not just deliver action and drama, it also packs a punch with a variety of emotional thrills. The film expertly handles a range of emotions, from moments that cause heartfelt laughter to scenes that evoke intense feelings of sadness and adrenaline surges. This perfect blend creates an engaging and well-rounded viewing experience, making it an ideal choice for those looking to spend some quality time immersed in a film that offers both excitement and emotional depth. A key takeaway from the movie is the paramount importance of unity. The film emphasises that regardless of the challenges one faces, success is more attainable when individuals come together in solidarity. The underlying message is clear - the greater the unity, the higher the likelihood of achieving success. HIGH-OCTANE action films that take audiences into the shadowy world of gangsterism have long been a favourite in Malaysia’s thriving film industry. This enthusiasm is apparent in the success of cinematic gems like KL Gangster, Abang Long Fadhil and Kongsi. Renowned for their captivating storylines, these movies have not only held audiences captive but have also carved a niche as enduring favourites, maintaining their appeal at the box office over the long haul. But the excitement does not end there. Recently, a new wave of films has emerged, continuing to explore the dynamic landscape of gangsterism. These cinematic offerings promise fresh perspectives and narratives that are well worth your time. Titled Budak Flat, this film was released on the international streaming platform Prime Video, marking the first Amazon Original film originating from Malaysia. The film has been exclusively available for streaming in Malaysia and 24 other Asian countries since Nov 16. The film portrays the authentic and intense atmosphere of a neglected Kuala Lumpur flat, revealing the true colours of a setting where secrets, allegiances and betrayals run deep. At the core of the narrative, Budak Flat centres around two brothers, both caught up in lives they never intended. Aman, portrayed by Zahiril Adzim, is a former snatch thief, while Riz, played by Pablo Amirul, is a drug lord. Unwittingly, they find themselves becoming each other’s greatest adversaries. Tensions begin to escalate when Aman is accused of murdering a respected gang member, forcing him to confront a precarious crossroads. To escape Riz’s gang, Aman must reveal the perpetrator or face retribution. The intensifying rivalry between the two brothers draws the residents of the low-cost flats into unexpected gang warfare within their own living spaces. Produced by Skop Productions with guidance from Syafiq Yusof, the film is codirected by Eugene Lim, who is making his directorial debut after an extensive career in TV commercials across Southeast Asia. Other co-directors involved in the project include Woo Ming Jin and Faizal Ishak. Featuring local action movie stars like Zahiril, Aaron Aziz and Pablo, along with a star-studded cast including Nabila Huda, Balan Kash, Deen Maiden and special appearances by Young Raja, the film holds the promise of being an excellent and wellreceived production. Excellent plot and storyline The narrative and plot of the movie turned out to be surprisingly captivating. Even though gangsterism and action flicks are pretty Intriguing world of Budak Flat oAn insightful reflection on money, power and choices - layers beyond action in Budak Flat First Amazon Original film from Malaysia, Budak Flat. Aaron among the star-studded cast. █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL The rival of two brothers. – PICS BY PRIME VIDEOS.

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 28 S PANISH CHAMPIONS Barcelona slipped up in a 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano yesterday in La Liga, continuing a worrying run of underwhelming performances. Antoine Griezmann’s header earned Atletico Madrid a 1-0 win over Real Mallorca to take the Rojiblancos third, above Barcelona on goal difference, having played a game fewer. Unai Lopez drove Rayo ahead from long range in the first half but Barca levelled through Florian Lejeune’s own goal in the 82nd minute. The draw adds to the doubts around Barcelona, who have not been at their best for several weeks and face Porto on Wednesday seeking Champions League knockout round qualification. “I think it was a game of two halves, in the first we dominated but we weren’t aggressive enough to cause damage,” said Xavi. “In the second we were, we scored a goal and could have had others… we need to win these games if we want to win the league. “We have to be self-critical, it’s costing us too much this season giving things away… in modern football a lot changes when they score against you.” Inaki Pena started in goal for Barca with Marc-Andre ter Stegen out with a back problem, while Xavi turned to the fit-again Frenkie de Jong to replace the injured Gavi in midfield. The 19-year-old’s cruciate ligament tear will keep him out for the season, with Barcelona losing a player the coach has described as the “soul” of the team. Barcelona players wore shirts before kickoff with his name on the back, and a message saying “we are with you, Gavi”. Hosts Rayo started well, encouraged by having beaten Barca on three of their four previous clashes, including twice at their ramshackle Vallecas stadium. They took the lead after 39 minutes when Lopez hammered a superb effort into the bottom right corner from around 30 yards out after the ball was cleared into his path. The Catalans levelled with eight minutes remaining when Lejeune diverted Balde’s cross into his own net, under pressure from Lewandowski. “We didn’t play well, we weren’t at the level that we can be,” De Jong told DAZN. “We have to work to improve – the plan is good, we are confident, everyone ran as much as they could. I think that we weren’t good in possession.” Griezmann’s superb header after 64 minutes earned his team victory, although visitors Mallorca spurned some good openings in the final stages. Atletico midfielder Koke, the club’s record appearance maker, hit a milestone of 600 games for the club. “The match was very hard for us, Mallorca played a very serious game,” Koke told Movistar. “Six hundred games is an extraordinary number,” added Atletico coach Diego Simeone. “Nobody has given him anything for free, and we have shared a lot (of memories here).” – AFP /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT MALACCA COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO: MA-28NCC-33-10/2023 In the matter of Section 465(1)(e) and 466 (1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016 And In the matter of KONKRIT EKSPRES SDN. BHD. [Company No: 199001013106 (204676-U)] BETWEEN LHT TRADING SDN. BHD. [Company No: 199701014977 (430474-U)] … PETITIONER AND KONKRIT EKSPRES SDN. BHD. [Company No: 199001013106 (204676- U)] … RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding Up of the abovenamed Company by the High Court was on the 12th day of October 2023 presented by LHT Trading Sdn. Bhd. of No. 8, Jalan Kenanga 1/25B, Taman Kenanga Seksyen 1, 75200 Melaka. And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at Melaka at 9.00 o’clock in the morning on the 8th day of January 2024 and any creditor or contributory of the said Company desiring to support or oppose the making of an Order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purposes and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at LHT Trading Sdn. Bhd. of No. 8, Jalan Kenanga 1/25B, Taman Kenanga Seksyen 1, 75200 Melaka. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is Messrs. Lawrence Tan & Associates of No. 17-1, Jalan PPPS 2, Pusat Perniagaan Putra Sentosa, 75150 Melaka. Dated this 21st day of November 2023 t.t. ........................................... Messrs. Lawrence Tan & Associates Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or sent by post to the abovenamed Messrs. Lawrence Tan & Associates, notice in writing of his intention so to do. The Notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later than twelve o’clock noon of the 7th January 2024. [Ref: LTA/L/WP-HC/LHT-KESB/2322] [Tel: 06-2405933] DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI KUALA LUMPUR (BAHAGIAN DAGANG) NO. PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT: WA-28NCC-1137-11/2023 Dalam perkara Ritma Hebat Sdn Bhd (No.Syarikat.: 200401007844 [646348-H]) Dan Dalam perkara Seksyen 465(1)(e) dan 466(1)(a) Akta Syarikat 2016 Dan Dalam perkara Kaedah – Kaedah (Penggulungan) Syarikat 1972 ANTARA KESUTRA SDN BHD [(No.Syarikat: 200701020688 (778704-M)] ...PEMPETISYEN DAN RITMA HEBAT SDN BHD [(No.Syarikat: 200401007844 (646348-H)] ... RESPONDEN IKLAN PETISYEN NOTIS ADALAH DENGAN INI DIBERI bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk penggulungan Syarikat yang dinamakan di atas oleh Mahkamah Tinggi telah, pada 6 November 2023, dikemukakan oleh KESUTRA SDN BHD. DAN bahawa Petisyen tersebut diarahkan supaya didengarkan di hadapan mahkamah yang bersidang di Mahkamah Tinggi Kuala Lumpur pada pukul 9:00 pagi pada 20 Februari 2024. DAN mana-mana pihak pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang ingin menyokong atau menentang sesuatu perintah mengikut Petisyen tersebut boleh hadir dengan tujuan itu secara peribadi atau melalui peguambelanya pada masa perbicaraan. Salinan Petisyen tersebut akan dibekalkan oleh pihak yang bertandatangan di bawah ini kepada mana-mana pemiutang atau penyumbang Syarikat tersebut yang memintanya dengan membuat bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat berdaftar Pempetisyen adalah di 1-47, Jalan SP2, Taman Segar Perdana, Cheras, 43200, Selangor dan alamat perniagaan di Unit 503, Block F, Pusat Perdagangan Phileo Damansara 1, Jalan 16/11, Off Jalan Damansara, 46350, Petaling Jaya Selangor. Peguamcara Pempetisyen ialah Tetuan Chong + Kheng Hoe yang beralamat di A3-3-6, Solaris Dutamas, No.1, Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Chong + Kheng Hoe …………………..……… Tetuan Chong + Kheng Hoe Peguamcara Pempetisyen NOTA - Sesiapa yang ingin hadir pada perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut hendaklah menyampaikan, atau menghantar dengan pos, kepada Tetuan Chong + Kheng Hoe yang dinamakan di atas suatu notis bertulis tentang niatnya sebegitu. Notis tersebut mestilah menyatakan nama dan alamat pihak berkenaan, atau jika ia sebuah firma, nama dan alamat firma, dan mestilah ditandatangani oleh pihak atau firma berkenaan atau peguamcaranya, jika ada. Notis hendaklah disampaikan, atau jika dihantar dengan pos, hendaklah dihantar dalam jangka masa mencukupi, supaya sampai kepada pihak yang dinamakan di atas sebelum pukul 12.00 tengahari pada 19 Februari 2024 (sehari sebelum tarikh yang ditetapkan untuk perbicaraan Petisyen tersebut). IKLAN PETISYEN ini diisukan oleh oleh Tetuan Chong + Kheng Hoe, peguamcara Pempetisyen yang dinamakan di atas yang beralamat di A3- 3-6, Solaris Dutamas, No.1 Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 03-6205 3928 / E-mel: [email protected] / Rujukan: 23091862] 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR IN THE STATE OF WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO.: WA-28NCC-1126-11/2023 In the matter of Section 465 (1) (e) of the Companies Act 2016, the provisions of the Companies Act 2016 and the Companies (Winding-up) Rules 1972 AND In the matter of Pro Redline Venture Sdn. Bhd. [Company No. : 201301020717 (1050547-D)] BETWEEN PERBADANAN USAHAWAN NASIONAL BERHAD [COMPANY NO.: 199101010745 (221057-V)] …PETITIONER AND PRO REDLINE VENTURE SDN. BHD. [COMPANY NO.: 201301020717 (1050547-D)] …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the above-named Company by the High Court at Kuala Lumpur was on the 6th day of November 2023 presented to the said Court by Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Berhad. And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the High Court of Insolvency sitting at Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, the 20th day of February 2024 at 9:30 o’clock in the morning and any creditor or contributory of the said company desirous to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any Creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at 7th Floor, Block 1B, Plaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur. The Petitioner’s Solicitor is Messrs. Kama & Wan, whose address is at 5-1-1, Jalan Medan PB 4A, Seksyen 9, 43650 Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan. …………………… Messrs. Kama & Wan Solicitor for the Petitioner NOTE: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Messrs. Kama & Wan, notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person or firm or his or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later that 12:00 o’clock in the noon of the 19th day of February 2024. This Advertisement of Petition is filed by Messrs. Kama & Wan, Advocate & Solicitor on behalf of the Petitioner of No. 5-1-1, Jalan Medan PB4A, Seksyen 9, 43650 Bandar Baru Bangi, Selangor Darul Ehsan. (Tel: 03 89221485) (email: [email protected]) (Ref No.: WS/PUNB/PRVSB/1068(L)) Barca fall behind Atletico down Mallorca to move above Catalan after Rayo draw Leverkusen slay Bremen to return to summit STRIKES from Alex Grimaldo, Jeremie Frimpong and an own goal lifted Bayer Leverkusen to a 3-0 win at Werder Bremen yesterday and a return to the top of the Bundesliga. Xabi Alonso’s men started the match in second place after Harry Kane scored in Bayern Munich’s 1-0 victory over Cologne on Saturday, but won comfortably and ended the weekend two points clear atop the table. Leverkusen have won 17 and drawn one of their 18 fixtures in all competitions this season. “We are in a great dynamic,” Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka told Sky Germany. “We’re playing well and everything is going in the right direction at the moment. “We’ve a team that listens, that pushes itself to the limit, and that’s the only way to win.” In Saturday’s late game, goals from Deniz Undav in the first and last minutes of the opening half took Stuttgart to a 2-1 win at Eintracht Frankfurt. Stuttgart’s Waldemar Anton conceded a freak own goal, the ball bouncing off his head and into the net, in the first half but Frankfurt lacked energy. Elsewhere, Borussia Dortmund came from two goals down to win 4-2 at home against Borussia Monchengladbach. “It definitely isn’t boring with us,” a relieved Dortmund coach Edin Terzic told reporters. “To come back from 2-0 down after 28 minutes, with that energy and that spirit, I can only compliment my team.” – AFP WALTER MAZZARRI made a winning return as Napoli coach yesterday with the champions’ hard-fought 2-1 victory at Atalanta, while AC Milan held on to third in Serie A after beating Fiorentina 1-0. Eljif Elmas netted the decisive goal 11 minutes from the end at the Gewiss Stadium in Bergamo after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s headed opener for the away side on the stroke of halftime was levelled by a similar strike from Ademola Lookman. North Macedonia midfielder Elmas rolled home the winner from substitute Victor Osimhen’s pass following Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi’s poor clearance, making sure that Napoli stayed fourth. “The team dominated all last season, playing some of the best football in Europe with players who were not used to being in that position,” Mazzarri told DAZN. “There was always going to be some drop-off after that.” Mazzarri returned to Napoli last week after Rudi Garcia was sacked, reprising a role he left just over a decade ago after being the man to take southern Italy’s biggest club back to the upper echelons of Italian football. – AFP Mazzarri wins on Napoli return Lens win ahead of Gunners clash LENS extended their unbeaten run in Ligue 1 to eight matches yesterday with a 3-0 victory at Clermont, before turning their attentions to Thursday’s Champions League game at Arsenal. Elye Wahi’s early strike got Lens up and running before Adrien Thomasson and Wesley Said’s second-half strikes completed the job in a match in which both teams were reduced to 10 men. Lens beat Arsenal at home in October but might need another shock result this week to keep their first Champions League campaign since 2002 alive. The French club sit third in Group B, behind PSV Eindhoven on head-to-head record and four points adrift of leaders Arsenal. “The level that awaits us on Wednesday (Thurs 4am Malaysian time) is that of a big mountain stage, a beyond category climb,” said Lens coach Franck Haise, using cycling as a comparison. “We will have to rise to that level. We have done it once. We will see if we are able to do it twice.” Sarri questions future LAZIO coach Maurizio Sarri questioned his future at the club after last season’s Serie A runners-up were stunned by bottom side Salernitana in a 2-1 defeat yesterday, their sixth league loss this season. Lazio, who took the lead through Ciro Immobile’s firsthalf penalty before conceding twice in the second half, are 10th in the table on 17 points, their worst start to a Serie A season since 2013-14. Sarri pinned the blame on the players’ attitude and mentality and said that if he felt his management of the team was part of the problem then he was willing to step down. “Something has to be done to break this inertia,” Sarri told reporters after the game. “The squad has lost character and initiative. After scoring a goal in the first half, we came back out hoping to control it for 50 minutes. That is not what our characteristics are as a team. “If over the next few days I evaluate and find that it is my fault, I will be the first to take the decision to walk away by speaking to the President.” SHORTS Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal (left) fights for the ball with Rayo Vallecano’s Alfonso Espino during their La Liga match. – AFPPIX

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 29 ‘Soft’ Chelsea fall apart Pochettino fumes after Blues conceded three second half goals and James sees red MAURICIO POCHETTINO was “angry and disappointed” after watching Chelsea fall apart in their 4-1 Premier League defeat at Newcastle. The Argentinian was left furious by his side’s second half capitulation at St James’ Park, which saw fullback Reece James sent off to erase the memories of their creditable displays against Tottenham and Manchester City before the international break. Pochettino, who watched the game from the directors’ box as he served a touchline ban, said: “We didn’t prepare ourselves in the best way to compete today, that is my concern. “We thought that we were ready to compete today, but we didn’t in the way that the competition demands. “Even if Newcastle weren’t great, it was an easy win to prepare for the Champions League today. We had to come here, Chelsea, to show that it’s going to be difficult for them to play, to win the game and to beat us. “But it was really easy in the way that we conceded and the way that we were so soft in every single challenge. We didn’t show that we were playing for something important. “That’s what makes me angry and disappointed. We talk about that we are a young team and we have to learn, but I think these type of games make me very, very, very, very, very angry because it’s about showing your personality and character. “Okay, we are young as a team, but we cannot lose this type of opportunity to show our best.” Newcastle had 13 players missing after midfielder Joe Willock had been added to the casualty list with a recurrence of an Achilles injury. But the hosts took a 13th-minute lead when Alexander Isak, back after a month out, span on 17-year-old Lewis Miley’s astute pass and fired past Robert Sanchez. The visitors levelled before the break courtesy of Raheem Sterling’s sweetlystruck freekick, only to succumb to goals from Lascelles and Joelinton within three second-half minutes and a fourth from Anthony Gordon after James had picked up a second booking. Magpies head coach Eddie Howe, who now faces the tasking of preparing his injury-ravaged side for Wednesday’s Champions League trip to Paris St Germain, was delighted with the resilience his players showed in adversity. Howe said: “It’s such an important win for us with the position we’re in, the stretched resources that we have. “To be able to come together and give a performance like that speaks volumes for the character of the players we have, the leaders we have in the group and our ability to just focus on the present, on what’s happening right now. “You look at the players who were missing and that was a giant performance from the players we have fit.” However, Howe’s enjoyment was tempered by Willock’s misfortune with the player and his club awaiting a prognosis. He said: “It looks like a recurrence of an Achilles injury that he had a few weeks ago. It’s a massive blow for us. “We don’t know how long he’s going to be out, we’re going to have to seek specialist advice, but it’s a huge blow for us.” – The Independent Richards labels City’s performance ‘very disappointing’ MICAH RICHARDS labelled Manchester City’s performance against Liverpool “very disappointing” after the Premier League champions let a one goal lead slip at the Etihad Stadium and had to settle of a share of the points in Saturday’s early kickoff. “I think City will be frustrated,” said Richards on Sky Sports after the match, “After Haaland scored that goal, you’re thinking can they kick on and go up a gear but that never happened. “Man City will be disappointed that they couldn’t go up another gear. Very disappointing.” Fellow Sky Sports pundit and former Liverpool striker, Daniel Sturridge, agreed adding that Liverpool will be “delighted” with securing a point against the League leaders. “(Liverpool) will be delighted with the result to be honest,” he said, “I thought that Manchester City were very good today but Liverpool continued to press on. In the second half they changed their mentality and there was an emphasis on pressing.” Jamie Carragher, meanwhile, believed that neither side did enough to win and claimed Liverpool were fortunate to secure a point following a couple of mistakes from their goalkeeper. He said: “They would have lost (the match) last year. We saw the performance (from Liverpool) last season and there’s no doubt that something is building. “I think both teams still lacked something, maybe on the back of the international break, it didn’t feel like either team really deserved to win the game. “Alisson didn’t have his best game on the ball today and could have cost Liverpool a couple of times with his clearances.” – The Independent ROB EDWARDS insists his Luton players have achieved nothing yet after a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace at Kenilworth Road saw them pull clear of the Premier League relegation zone. It was a first home victory on their top-flight return for Edwards’ side and it came courtesy of late drama, culminating in a winning goal prodded in by substitute Jacob Brown seven minutes from time. The game looked to be petering towards a drab goalless draw until defender Teden Mengi struck with 18 minutes to go, blasting a shot across goal and beyond Sam Johnstone from a corner to put Luton in sight of victory. The lead was wiped out in seconds as virtually from kickoff Michael Oliseh collected the ball wide on the left, stepped inside and curled beautifully into the corner for a fine solo goal. Yet Luton would have the final say, Brown getting in between defender Joachim Andersen and his goalkeeper to turn the ball home and propel his side to an historic win. Edwards admitted his relief at seeing his side survive 12 minutes of stoppage time to finally get off the mark at home at the sixth attempt but emphasised the size of the task that still lies ahead. “(It feels) really good,” he said. “Relief, I feel drained now, it was the longest game I’ve ever been a part of. Pleased for the supporters, pleased for everyone connected to the club. “It’s been a long time coming here at home. I think we deserved a bit more than what we’ve got here in some of the games. “We were close against Liverpool, close against Wolves, Burnley could have gone another way. But it’s taken until today. “I don’t want the players having a party. We’ve done nothing (yet). We’ve got nine points. I don’t think that’s anything to be going out to the nightclub and having a flipping disco or a party. “Enjoy it, but we’ve got to go again. Brentford’s really difficult next week, then we’ve got Arsenal and Man City to look forward to. We’ve got to keep improving and getting better. “So enjoy the moment, enjoy the feeling, it’s nice. The players can enjoy their weekend. But it’s back to work quickly.” – The Independent No cause for a party, says Luton boss █ BY DAMIAN SPELLMAN █ BY MICHAEL JONES █ BY ROBERT O’CONNOR De Zerbi explains ‘big, big celebration’ BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi made no apology for celebrating his side’s 3-2 win at Nottingham Forest like they had won the Champions League final. De Zerbi sprinted straight to the away fans at the City Ground, without shaking counterpart Steve Cooper’s hand, after his side ended a six-game winless run in a drama-filled Premier League encounter. “I want to explain our celebration, it wasn’t disrespectful to the opponent because I am used to living inside of football, but we are suffering a lot with injuries, we lost two players in the first half, we suffered a red card, we lost two points in the last games against Sheffield United and Fulham, the last win in the Premier League was at the end of September. “We are suffering a lot because it is one of the toughest times in my career. It was a big, big celebration. “We are very happy and I am very proud of the character and attitude we showed in a very tough moment. “Without 10 players if Brighton can compete in two competitions, seventh in the League, and in the Europa League with Ajax, AEK Athens and Marseille, it is difficult. “We celebrated it like the final in the Champions League, it was not the Champions League, but the way we won the game with 10 players without the captain was excellent.” Cherries boss praises Tavernier BOURNEMOUTH boss Andoni Iraola said Marcus Tavernier’s double in his side’s 3-1 win at Sheffield United was just reward for his recent performances. Tavernier struck early in both halves, either side of Justin Kluivert’s effort, as the Cherries notched their first Premier League away win of the season to maintain their climb away from relegation danger. Oli McBurnie headed the Blades’ late consolation as Bournemouth cruised to their third win in four top-flight matches. Iraola said: “He was playing really well in the last games but he had some chances he didn’t finish, against Burnley and Newcastle. “But it was a matter of time because he has the quality. It’s good he gets the reward because he is contributing in such different ways to the team. I’m really happy for him.” SHORTS Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson (left) in action with Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier. – REUTERSPIX

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 30 CARDIFF CITY scored two goals deep into stoppage time to snatch a dramatic late win at fellow Championship playoff contenders Preston North End. The visitors had the better chances of a goalless first half, but fell behind three minutes after the break as Mark McGuinness was dispossessed by Milutin Osmajic, who sprinted clear and finished neatly. Soon afterwards, Preston’s Robbie Brady was sent off after picking up his second booking for a foul on Yakou Meite. Despite dominating possession, Cardiff struggled to break down Ryan Lowe’s 10 men until Karlan Grant pounced on a loose ball from a corner to equalise in the sixth minute of injury time. Then in the ninth and final minute added on, substitute Ike Ugbo headed in to send Cardiff’s travelling fans wild. The win sees Cardiff climb up into seventh place, while Preston stay fifth. As late as Cardiff’s goals were, they deserved their victory having been in the ascendancy for much of the game even when they were up against 11 men. For all those o p e n i n g s , though, Cardiff conceded in frustrating fashion as McGuinness had his pocket picked by Osmajic and the Montenegrin drove towards the penalty area and finished beyond Alex Runarsson. Milutin Osmajic scores for Preston The goal came 5724/2023 26/11/2023 (SUN) 6459 1252 1388 6756 4928 1149 8016 2339 1022 6415 7381 9407 7974 2400 5959 4430 5763 6794 7458 6832 9415 8616 5337 15,571,602.51 6459 6459 6459 1388 1388 1252 1388 1388 1252 1252 6459 1252 398,797.19 6459 1252 1388 DRAGON 08492 50728 0728 728 47547 2 8 6 9 785569 85569 5569 569 78556 7855 785 7 8 3,957,838.70 2,113,135.61 10 17 24 45 48 52 146,572.88 218 25 43 50 54 2 13 15 23 35 38 14,703,837.20 33 878 191 +MONKEY 217 176 + HORSE 407 932 +MONKEY Draw Date: 26/11/23 (Sun) Draw No: 5671/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 8191 7176 7932 9446 + 0014 0467 + 7572 7651 + 9129 7594 + 3146 2782 + 2673 0404 + 6799 8122 + 2905 0110 + 5045 9737 + 0323 3261 + 6430 RM9,660,540.00 8191 + 7176 7176 + 8191 8191 + 7932 7932 + 8191 7176 + 7932 7932 + 7176 RM626,163.70 RM2,300,327.50 RM2,036,817.00 RM185,833.30 719 446 740 014 860 467 067 572 987 651 599 129 937 594 213 146 942 782 052 673 830 404 326 799 168 122 282 905 900 110 955 045 109 737 170 323 483 261 716 430 191 176 932 RM804,260.80 191 + 176 + 932 176 + 932 + 191 191 + 932 + 176 932 + 191 + 176 176 + 191 + 932 932 + 176 + 191 Sign­up as member on dmcGO app now! Satisfied with draw Guardiola, Klopp happy with point after Man City and Liverpool share spoils LIVERPOOL manager Jurgen Klopp believes his side passed an important test coming back to draw 1-1 at Manchester City but stressed there will be bigger challenges to come. The title rivals could not be separated as City failed to capitalise on a number of chances after Erling Haaland’s recordbreaking 50th Premier League goal and Trent Alexander-Arnold scored an 80thminute equaliser. “For us I think we passed a test today, I am not sure if it was – the – test,” said Klopp after Saturday draw. “Last year with a team that played long together we got completely under the wheels here (losing 4-1) and had no real chance. Today we had a chance. “I am not silly, I see the game, and if you ask who was more likely to win the game it was City, obviously, but we had our moments and we won games with lesser chances against City. “We don’t check if we are as good as City but it is not that I look at our side and say ‘That’s the finished article’ because I saw a lot of performances I was not overly happy with. “It is a super-difficult week (after the international break) so how can you judge that?” Injuries to Diogo Jota and, potentially more significantly, goalkeeper Alisson Becker were of some concern, however. “I hope it is not that serious but I have not clue what it is. He said he only felt a little bit but we have to wait for the scan,” said Klopp of his Brazil international. The Liverpool manager also played down a post-match confrontation between Darwin Nunez and City boss Pep Guardiola. “This situation on the pitch is nothing to do with the historical fierce rivalry, I don’t think Darwin Nunez knows anything about it,” said Klopp. “Just emotions. I was not involved – surprisingly – but I love them both so I just tried to calm the situation down without knowing 100% what happened as I didn’t understand a word. “Pep wants to win, we want to win and then both didn’t win so no-one is really happy and these things can happen.” Guardiola also dismissed the incident, noting that Nunez was “stronger than me”, and preferred to praise his side despite failing to close out victory. “I’m incredibly pleased with the performance because in seven years we know exactly how tough they are and how good they are,” he said. “We played really good because I know against which team we are playing. They are excellent. I admire Jurgen a lot, he knows that. That’s why after many years, we are able still to do it and be hungry. “How many chances did we create? Seven, eight, nine? We were incredibly good in all departments. It’s a pity but I said to them (the players) we’re not going to win or lose the Premier League today. “They (Liverpool) are happy, we are a little less happy. I’m really pleased and so proud of my team.” – The Independent Cardiff leave it late to down Preston █ BY CARL MARKHAM against the run of play but Preston soon put themselves under pressure as Brady received his second yellow card for tripping Meite. Cardiff seized the initiative and scored the equaliser six minutes into added time as Grant reacted quickly to a loose ball. Then three minutes later, Ryan Wintle’s inviting cross found fellow substitute Ugbo, who headed back across goal to cap a stunning comeback win for Cardiff. “It’s a very important win. From the first minute until the end of the game, my players showed character,” Cardiff manager Erol Bulut told BBC Radio Wales. “It’s not easy to play against 10 players. Sometimes it’s more difficult but we did everything right. We kept the ball and tried to create chances. “I think we deserved to get the three points. There were nine minutes added but it could have been 12 because the opponent tried only to waste time. You could see how important it was for both teams to get the win.” – Agencies Cardiff City’s Iké Ugbo celebrate after netting a last-gasp winner against Preston North End on Saturday at the Cardiff City Stadium. – cardiffcityfc.co.uk

SPORTS SPORTS MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 31 Sivasangari triumphs in HK NATIONAL squash queen S. Sivasangari won The Hong Kong Football Club Open yesterday for her second title this year. The world No. 22nd player needed just 34 minutes to beat Egypt’s Amina Orfi, the junior world champion in 2022 and 2023, 11-9, 11-8, 11-5 in the women’s final. Sivasangari had won the Tunku Mukhriz Cup championship in August. “Throughout the whole week, I’m a little bit nervous at the first round. I don’t feel good but each day I’ve played better and better and brought good progress. I’m really happy, especially getting to beat a very talented player (Amina),” the Kedah-born player said in an audio clip shared by the Professional Squash Association on X. Meanwhile, fellow national player Ng Eain Yow fell to Egypt’s Aly Abou Eleinen in the men’s final. Eain Yow, the world No. 21, lost 6-11, 11-5, 7-11, 7-11. India lift Mirnawan Cup INDIA beat South Africa 4-3 to win the Mirnawan Cup 2023 boys’ title at the Kuala Lumpur Hockey Stadium on Saturday. In the third-placing match, Malaysia Speedy Tigers (A) beat Australia All Star 4-3 in a penalty shootout. In the girls’ category, Australia All Star grabbed the title after defeating Japan 2-0 while India finished third by beating South Africa 2-0. “We wish to make the Mirnawan Cup an annual event like the Sultan of Johor Cup. It is very important for giving exposure to our players, especially the girls,” said National Hockey Development Programme (NHDP) technical coordinator S. Velappan. BRIEFS HONG KONG Team Witchcraft emerged champions for the first time as they lifted The Raja Muda Cup, sealing their victory in the 2023 Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta (RMSIR), a nine-day sailing competition that began the previous week. Team skipper Nick Burns, 79, and his 10- man crew – Cameron Ferguson, Darwin Santos, Peter Fletch, Fred Kinmonth, Heather Hard, Peter Baer, Warcz Downes, Zack Izham, Wilfred Kam and Maueen Mueller – won the Class 1 with only a single point ahead of second-placed The Next Factor from Australia (13 points), while Team Uranus of Malaysia took third (24 points) and Australian team Aftershock last (31 points). They placed first in five out of eight races held, the first stage from Port Klang to Pulau Pangkor, third stage from Penang to Langkawi and three Langkawi Harbour races. Fletch, 63, who was the team’s trimmer, expressed his relief that their plans all went well even though they had to deal with unfavourable winds. “There is a lot of variable conditions and a lot of wind changes like storm at night. Of course, its a challenge (but our) eyes focus on what going on and just watch position as well. “Its a good success but it doesn’t come easy so we are satisfied with the crew and hopefully we come back next year’s RMSIR,” he told reporters yesterday. Meanwhile in the The Jugra Challenge Cup for Class 2, United Kingdom’s Shahtoosh emerged champions, while Singapore’s Silhouette won the Class 3 to lift the Dato’ Abdul Aziz Ismail Challenge Trophy. The Jeff Harris Challenge Trophy was won by the Lady Bubbly from Australia in the Class 4 category, while Malaysia’s VG Offshore and Marikh dominated the Class 5 to win the Royal Langkawi Yacht Cup and Class 6 for the Eveline Trophy respectively. A total of 19 teams participated in the 33rd edition of the RMSIR, competing in Class 1 to 6, with three stages, Port Klang to Pulau Pangkor, Pulau Pangkor to Penang, and Penang to Langkawi as well as Harbour Races in Penang and Langkawi. The RMSIR was mooted by Selangor Sultan, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah while he was the Raja Muda Selangor. – Bernama Teams fall under Witchcraft spell Selangor whip Perak, NS down PDRM SELANGOR FC lived up to expectations by giving Perak a 4-0 blasting in a Super League match at Petaling Jaya City Council Stadium in Selangor on Saturday. The emphatic win puts Selangor on the right track in their mission to secure victories in the three remaining matches of this season. The host found the net as early as the third minute via Sharul Nazeem who received a pass from Yohandry Orozco to put Selangor in the lead. Tan Cheng Hoe’s boys continue to raid the Perak goal the second goal duly arrived, thanks to the finishing by Mukhairi Ajmal who neatly received Ayron Del Valle’s pass. Selangor then almost got a chance to score RESULTS & STANDINGS ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Brentford 0 Arsenal 1 (Havertz 89), Burnley 1 (Rodriguez 49-pen) West Ham 2 (O’Shea 86-og, Soucek 90+1), Luton 2 (Mengi 72, Brown 83) Crystal Palace 1 (Olise 74), Manchester City 1 (Haaland 27) Liverpool 1 (Alexander-Arnold 80), Newcastle 4 (Isak 13, Lascelles 60, Joelinton 61, Gordon 83) Chelsea 1 (Sterling 23), Nottingham Forest 2 (Elanga 3, Gibbs-White 76-pen) Brighton 3 (Ferguson 26, Pedro 45, 58-pen), Sheffield United 1 (McBurnie 90+7) Bournemouth 3 (Tavernier 12, 51, Kluivert 45). P W D L F A Pts Arsenal 13 9 3 1 27 10 30 Man City 13 9 2 2 33 13 29 Liverpool 13 8 4 1 28 11 28 Tottenham 12 8 2 2 24 15 26 Aston Villa 12 8 1 3 29 17 25 Newcastle 13 7 2 4 31 14 23 Brighton 13 6 4 3 28 23 22 Man Utd 12 7 0 5 13 16 21 West Ham 13 6 2 5 23 23 20 Chelsea 13 4 4 5 22 20 16 Brentford 13 4 4 5 19 18 16 Wolves 12 4 3 5 16 20 15 Crystal Palace 13 4 3 6 13 18 15 Nottm Forest 13 3 4 6 16 21 13 Fulham 12 3 3 6 10 20 12 Bournemouth 13 3 3 7 14 28 12 Luton 13 2 3 8 12 23 9 Sheff Utd 13 1 2 10 11 34 5 Everton 12 4 2 6 14 17 4 Burnley 13 1 1 11 10 32 4 Note: Everton deducted 10pts following breach of financial rules. Championship: Birmingham 2 Sheffield Wednesday 1, Bristol City 3 Middlesbrough 2, Huddersfield 1 Southampton 1, Leicester 2 Watford 0, Millwall 0 Coventry 3, Norwich 1 QPR 0, Plymouth 2 Sunderland 0, Preston 1 Cardiff 2, Stoke 0 Blackburn 3, Swansea 2 Hull 2, West Brom 2 Ipswich 0. TOP 10 P W D L F A Pts Leicester 17 14 0 3 31 10 42 Ipswich 17 12 3 2 36 23 39 Leeds 17 9 5 3 28 17 32 Southampton 17 9 4 4 28 27 31 West Brom 17 8 5 4 28 17 29 Preston 17 8 4 5 24 26 28 Cardiff 17 8 3 6 27 20 27 Hull 17 7 6 4 24 21 27 Sunderland 17 8 2 7 27 19 26 Blackburn 17 8 1 8 27 26 25 LA LIGA: Rayo Vallecano 1 (Lopez 39) Barcelona 1 (Lejeune 82-og), Valencia 0 Celta Vigo 0, Getafe 2 (Greenwood 33, Mayoral 45) Almeria 1 (Ramazani 7), Atletico Madrid 1 (Griezmann 64) Real Mallorca 0. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Girona 13 11 1 1 31 16 34 Real Madrid 13 10 2 1 28 9 32 Atletico 13 10 1 2 30 12 31 Barcelona 14 9 4 1 27 14 31 Bilbao 13 7 3 3 25 17 24 SERIE A: Atalanta 1 (Lookman 53) Napoli 2 (Kvaratskhelia 44, Elmas 79), AC Milan 1 (Hernandez 45+1-pen) Fiorentina 0, Salernitana 2 (Kastanos 55, Candreva 67) Lazio 1 (Immobile 43-pen). TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 12 10 1 1 29 6 31 Juventus 12 9 2 1 19 7 29 AC Milan 13 8 2 3 21 14 26 Napoli 13 7 3 3 26 14 24 Atalanta 13 6 2 5 21 13 20 BUNDESLIGA: Frankfurt 1 Stuttgart 2, Dortmund 4 B. Moenchengladbach 2, Union Berlin 1 Augsburg 1, Freiburg 1 Darmstadt 1, Wolfsburg 2 RB Leipzig 1, Werder Bremen 0 Bayer Leverkusen 3. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Leverkusen 12 11 1 0 37 10 34 B. Munich 12 10 2 0 43 9 32 Stuttgart 12 9 0 3 31 15 27 Dortmund 12 7 3 2 25 19 24 RB Leipzig 12 7 2 3 29 12 23 FRENCH LIGUE 1: Clermont 0 Lens 3, Strasbourg 1 Marseille 1. TOP 5 P W D L F A Pts Paris SG 13 9 3 1 34 11 30 Nice 12 7 5 0 13 4 26 Monaco 13 7 3 3 27 19 24 Lille 12 5 5 2 15 11 20 Reims 12 6 2 4 17 15 20 the third goal in the 35th and 37th minutes when Fazly Mazlan and Ayron took shots at the goal but both missed, much to the relief of Perak’s manager Yusri Che Lah. Continuing in the second half, the match was still dominated by Selangor who piled on continuous attacks on Perak and were on target when Orozco and Ayron scored the third and fourth goals in the 77th and 80th minutes and the result remained 4-0 until the final whistle. Selangor have now strengthened their position in second place in the 2023 Super League table with 55 points. In another match, Negeri Sembilan FC (NSFC) beat PDRM FC 2-0 at Stadium Tuanku Abdul Rahman in Paroi, Seremban. NSFC drew first blood in the 48th minute when Shahrel Fikri floated a cross into the penalty area for R. Barahtkumar to score. K. Devan’s charges increased their lead when A. Selvan’s shot found the net in the 78th minute and the score stayed at 2-0 till the final whistle. – Bernama Team Witchcraft were crowned 2023 Raja Muda Cup champions on Saturday. – BERNAMAPIX Team rom Hong Kong wins 2023 Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta

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] SCAN ME MONDAY | NOV 27, 2023 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper MIKEL ARTETA defended Aaron Ramsdale after the Arsenal goalkeeper’s error-strewn display in the 1-0 win at Brentford. Not even Kai Havertz’s late winner, which sent the Gunners to the top of the Premier League for the first time this season, could mask a horror show from Ramsdale. The 25-year-old was back in the spotlight on his first League appearance since Sept. 3 with David Raya, now seemingly the club’s undisputed No. 1, still on loan from Brentford and ineligible to face his parent club. But the England international made a horribly nervous start which almost gifted the Bees an early goal. Having exchanged passes with Gabriel from a goal kick, Ramsdale suddenly developed a bout of the yips, hesitating with his clearance and allowing Yoane Wissa to pinch the ball away. Luckily for Ramsdale, Declan Rice had already spotted the danger and got back to clear Bryan Mbeumo’s shot off the line, before Wissa put the rebound wide. But Ramsdale hid his face under his shirt following another embarrassing error before half-time, somehow letting the ball slip out of his hand. Instead of throwing it up-field he ended up looking like a fast bowler delivering a bouncer which went straight to Bees midfielder Frank Onyeka. The danger was quickly cleared, but Ramsdale’s confidence was ebbing further down the drain. However, Arteta insisted: “This is football, I’m so happy with the team, we kept a clean sheet and we move on. “He has big courage, big personality and that’s why we love him. I enjoy to see the players encouraging each other.” Nevertheless, the Gunners won it when Bukayo Saka swung in a cross from the right and substitute Havertz ghosted in at the far post to plant his header past Mark Flekken and send them back to the top of the pile. It was only the German’s second goal since his summer switch from Chelsea. “That’s the beauty of it, when things come easy you don’t value it,” Arteta added. “We love him for a reason and the way he behaves in difficult moments. We could not be happier that a big player like him won the game. “I’m so happy, when you have opportunity to go top and you come to Brentford, an uncomfortable place to come, the team showed so much willingness to compete.” For the Bees a record of 14 London derbies without defeat came to an end. “I think we did so many things right, it was a very even game in many ways,” said boss Thomas Frank. “There were two chances for each team. Unfortunately they took one and we didn’t. The game should have been a draw. I’m pleased with the performance and effort of the players.” – The Independent █ BY ANDY SIMS Arsenal’s goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale (left) in action during the English Premier League match against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium yesterday. – AFPPIX Keeping the faith Arteta hails Ramsdale despite errors in Arsenal’s win over Brentford ‘Soft’ Chelsea fall apart -Story - on page 30 Story on page 29 Satisfied with draw