The Sun Daily-240523

PETALING JAYA: Peninsular Malaysians must take heed and learn from the example set by Sabah and Sarawak in appreciating ethnic and religious diversity and embracing these values to foster national unity, said National Council of Professors senior fellow Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir. He was commenting on the National Unity Week 2023 celebrations, which started on May 20 and will run until the 28th. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said that having the celebration is vital to spreading the spirit of togetherness and unity among Malaysians. He added that National Unity Week could also spread knowledge and understanding and allow the people to appreciate the diversity of cultures that instil patriotism. Jeniri said the prime minister is on the right track in appreciating racial and religious differences, adding that the diversity of ethnic cultures would foster and promote national unity. “Peninsular Malaysians must realise and accept that there will be differences when it comes to the religious and cultural practices of the different races. “Charity begins at home, so parents must teach their children about the importance of respecting one another’s cultural and religious practices. This must also be promoted in primary schools as children from different races begin to mix mostly from there.” Jeniri said while religious and cultural tolerance needs to be promoted, teachers have an important role to play in helping to advance unity and acceptance of the different races and their religious and cultural practices.” He said a better understanding of the differences among the races and religions is important to help promote social cohesion. However, he warned against manipulating race and religion for personal gain, as some politicians are known for using it to gain popularity. “Sabah and Sarawak are good examples of racial unity as the people there have learnt to live together. They understand that there are differences between their religious practices, and they have embraced them. “There are also many inter-racial and interfaith marriages in Sabah and Sarawak, which are celebrated by everyone. Peninsular Malaysians should learn from them and accept the differences, which will only serve to make the nation stronger.” However, Jeniri said certain politicians in the peninsula are known for making statements on race and religion for personal benefit and are not bothered about the consequences of what they are doing, so long as they gain from it. He said politicians must realise they are living in a multiracial and multireligious society and have to be sensitive over the statements they make. “It is important to avoid divisive statements on religious or racial sensitivities. Politicians cannot just look at things from their perspective, but understand that they live in a plural society, so understanding racial and religious sensitivity is key to harmonious living.” Social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said unity is key to the success of any nation, and it should be given priority and utmost importance in whatever the government undertakes. He said unity is essential as without it, achievements in economic development or science and technology would be meaningless. “All government policies should prioritise unity. Unfortunately, there are politicians and even some among the citizenry who are very divisive and play the racial and religious cards for their own benefit. “Politicians should refrain from getting involved in activities that have little benefit to the country. o‘Malaysians in peninsula should emulate Sabahans, Sarawakians in embracing diversity to promote social cohesion’ █ BY RAJVINDER SINGH [email protected] INSIDE TELLING IT AS IT IS ON WEDNESDAY MAY 24, 2023 No. 8274 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my FLARE DISPLAY ... A spectacular fire and smoke show lends colour to the opening of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 at the Mashuri International Exhibition Centre yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Look east for unity Their statements, speeches and even comments must foster unity among the people and not divide them.” Lee said it is every politician’s duty to bring progress to the nation by bettering the people’s lives. “Being divisive is detrimental to everyone no matter what race or religion a person belongs to.” Govt to bolster semi-conductor 2 ecosystem page Public warned against open 3 burning page

2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Semiconductor ecosystem to be given boost GEORGE TOWN: The government plans to further strengthen Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem in the hope of achieving a 15% market share in the semiconductor assembly, test and packaging activities by 2030, compared with 13% currently. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said one of the sustainable ways to achieve this is to place emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education among the younger generation. “As the National TVET (technical and vocational education and training) committee chairman, I have also signed various memorandums of understanding with industry players so that the syllabus and learning modules in TVET institutions can be updated according to the needs of the industry,” he told a press conference here yesterday. He said this after officiating at the SEMICON Southeast Asia 2023 yesterday while being accompanied oGovt looking to secure 15% market share by 2030 by emphasising on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. He said Malaysia ranked among the top 10 global hubs for semiconductors and electronics, whereby overall Malaysia ranks as the seventh largest exporter of semiconductors in the world, with a market share of 7%. Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia’s attractiveness as a global investment centre has attracted many high-tech companies from around the world to set up their operations here. “The government is committed to working with industry stakeholders to map out the entire supply chain and to develop targeted interventions that support the industry and drive growth. By working together, the country can achieve its shared goals and ensure the long-term success of the industry and the nation. “This, hopefully, will lead to Malaysia emerging as the preferred digital hub in Southeast Asia becoming a very real possibility one day,” he added. The three-day event, which began yesterday themed “Boosting Agility and Resiliency for the Electronics Supply Chain”, will highlight critical areas of semiconductor industry growth, including sustainability, smart manufacturing, smart mobility, smart med-tech and workforce development. The event is organised by SEMI, a global industry association serving the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing and design supply chain, with its strategic partners the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and InvestPenang. Mida deputy chief executive officer (Investment Development) Lim Bee Vian said the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry is poised to continue its growth trajectory in 2023, driven by the increasing global demand for chips and semiconductor equipment. In 2022 alone, the industry attracted a total investment of RM29.3 billion from 106 projects, with 95.2% coming from foreign sources. “These investments not only contributed to economic growth but also created employment opportunities, including highly skilled positions. “With a well-established E&E industry’s ecosystem, Malaysia has become a magnet for the world’s largest and most innovative electronics companies, including industry giants such as Intel, ST Microelectronics, Infineon, Micron, Texas Instruments, TF AMD and Osram.” – Bernama ROYAL DISCOURSE ... The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah having a discussion with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at Istana Negara yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Malaysia to venture into aerospace grade material production LANGKAWI: The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) said Malaysia will venture into aerospace grade material production for the global market as well as becoming a critical supplier of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the long run. Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong said Miti would continue to support other segments of the aerospace industry such as the development of locally assembled seaplanes and commercial drones for various operations. “This will not only reduce our importation of aerospace-related equipment but will expand our exports other than parts and components for commercial aircraft,” he said during the launch of the Malaysia Aerospace Centre of Excellence (MyAero Centre) and the AS9100 certification by SIRIM QAS at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023. During the event, Liew also witnessed nine exchanges of documents involving Miti agencies, industry players and aerospace cluster developers. “The collaborations focus on SAF, technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and professional development, research and technology, local supply chain enhancement, aerospace quality certification as well as seaplane ecosystem development. “It is our hope that Malaysia will continue to become the preferred destination for strategic partnership and collaboration, investments and contract outsourcing. “Miti and its agencies are committed to facilitating business activities in Malaysia and will assist potential investors and partners to implement any investment projects in accordance with the specific timeline set by the investors,” he said. Liew added that the development of a conducive ecosystem is vital in attracting more high-quality aerospace investments to Malaysia and spurring domestic direct investment. “Apart from strengthening the local supply chain, a strategic implementation plan is required to ensure high-skilled talents are continuously developed based on the recent industry needs.” On the newly launched MyAERO Centre, he said the centre would be a platform to promote strategic partnerships between local parties and global players and relevant organisations where partners will be able to explore opportunities to improve market access and new business areas. – Bernama Proposal on ‘Allah’ issue to be sent to Rulers in July KUALA LUMPUR: A proposal to improve the policies and regulations relating to the use of the word “Allah” by non-Muslims will be tabled at a meeting of the Conference of Rulers in July, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He added that the government will also refer to the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs chaired by the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah for the purpose. “We will refer first to the (council) chaired by the Selangor Sultan to seek their advice to improve the policies so that a final decision can be made, which is to prohibit the use (of the word ‘Allah) in the peninsula but be allowed with certain conditions in Sabah and Sarawak. “InsyaAllah, the proposal will be tabled at the Conference of Rulers meeting in July,” he said during the minister’s question time at the Dewan Rakyat sitting yesterday. Anwar said this in reply to Datuk Idris Ahmad (PN-Bagan Serai), who wanted to know whether the government has obtained the approval of the Malay Rulers and consulted the state Islamic religious councils first before withdrawing its appeal in the case relating to the use of the word “Allah”. Anwar said the decision to withdraw the appeal was part of efforts to improve all the related policies and regulations. “It was done after taking into account the attorney-general’s views (to have better regulations). If not, there will be appeal after appeal due to loopholes. “That’s why we want to put an end to it by amending all policies to make it clearer so that no such cases can be taken to court. For me, it is better this way.” – Bernama Dewan conveys condolences to family of former MP KUALA LUMPUR: The Dewan Rakyat has conveyed its condolences to the family of former Arau MP Datuk Ismail Kassim, who died yesterday. Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Johari Abdul conveyed the condolences on behalf of the members and staff of the august house yesterday before the start of the minister’s question time. “With sadness, I would like to announce to the Honourable Members of the House that Datuk Ismail Kassim, the former member of Parliament for Arau, died yesterday. I hope family members of the deceased continue to persevere in facing this situation. “We pray that his soul will be blessed by Allah SWT and be placed among the pious and righteous,” he added. Ismail is the youngest brother of Arau member of Parliament Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim. He died at 2.45pm yesterday at the Selayang Hospital, believed to be from a heart attack. Ismail was Arau member of Parliament from 2008 to 2013 and a senator from 1999 to 2005. – Bernama School term to start in January KUALA LUMPUR: School sessions will start in January beginning 2026, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced yesterday. She said plans were being made by the ministry to bring forward the beginning of the academic calendar for the 2024/2025 session to February 2025. “The ministry has studied the proposal to restore the school academic calendar to start in January like before. It is hoped that with this announcement, the financial and economic aspects can be planned from now by all parties involved. “Indirectly, the planning of family holidays, and feasts for teachers as announced in the 10 initiatives in conjunction with Teachers’ Day (recently) will be arranged based on the new academic calendar, which will be sent for gazette,” she said during the question and answer session in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. She was responding to a question from Aminolhuda Hasssan (PH-Sri Gading) on when can the academic calendar for schools to start in January again. – Bernama

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 KUALA LUMPUR: Considering the current heatwave, the public should not start open fires as they could spread quickly and pose a serious threat to public health and the environment, said University of Selangor honorary professor of environmental health Jamal Hisham Hashim. He said burning rubbish, household waste, remnants of crop harvests, tree cuttings, dried leaves and grass should be strictly prohibited. “This is especially so in populated urban and rural areas. Enforcing such a prohibition can help prevent hazards as fire can spread quickly in dry weather and affect public health. “Even local authorities and government agencies have urged the public not to carry out open burning as it can worsen many health problems such as respiratory diseases, breathing difficulties and skin diseases caused by smoke.” Jamal Hisham said despite open burning being a quick and effortless way to remove dried leaves and branches from gardens, the slightest spark could potentially lead to devastating consequences if the fire is not monitored or contained promptly. “I have seen many people carrying out open burning of their household waste, especially on weekends,” said Taman Puchong Indah resident Chong Sew Li. “Despite the scheduled rubbish collection provided by municipal authorities, residents are still left with a substantial amount of waste to manage. This could be due to some of them missing the designated rubbish pick-up times.” Taman Puchong Utama resident Magendran Tangamani, 42, said the Subang Jaya Municipal Council has arranged a rubbish collection plan and has provided waste containers for the residents. “However, despite the availability of bins, some residents continue to dispose of their garbage indiscriminately, even if the bins are already overflowing. “This lack of consideration may result in unpleasant odours if the bins are not emptied on time. To prevent such issues, my neighbour dug a hole where we could dispose of our trash by burning it during our off days,” said Magendran. Jamal Hisham advised the public to explore appropriate methods for disposing of their unused furniture and household waste. “People should practise recycling paper, glass, plastics, clothes, and electronic waste. “In exchange for recycling items, they might even get paid for their effort.” He said the Environment Department and local authorities have put in place regulations related to open burning during periods of high fire risk. “In the event of a wildfire, the Fire and Rescue Department will take charge of putting out any form of open fire, whether it is unintentional or deliberate. “If the fire involves hazardous chemicals or materials, the Hazmat team, which is specially trained to handle hazardous materials or dangerous goods, will be called in to handle the matter.” Jamal Hisham said he is committed to educating the public through activities and statements that raise awareness of the health impact caused by open burning. He added that the public should report cases of open burning to the Environment Department, local authorities or the Fire and Rescue Department. Forest fires should be reported to the Forestry Department. Electricity tariff adjustment for T20 to be announced KUALA LUMPUR: The government is expected to announce an electricity tariff adjustment for domestic consumers in the T20 income group soon, said Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad. He said the government must take into account various factors, including the trend of coal and gas prices, which have stabilised as compared with the past few years, before adjusting the electricity tariff. “Previously, we have long kept the price (of coal and gas fuel) very low. That’s why the tariff increase is quite drastic. So that is a factor to consider. “God willing, we will announce it in the near future. I have not even discussed it with the Cabinet,” he said after officiating the Asean Green Hydrogen Conference 2023 here yesterday. He said the adjustment will be made based on the Imbalance Cost Pass-Through mechanism for a period of six months, starting from July to December this year. On Monday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said those in the T20 group would not benefit from electricity subsidies and haj financial assistance. Meanwhile, Nik Nazmi said the government has saved more than RM4 billion from the RM15 billion allocated for flood mitigation projects announced by the previous government. The savings were the result of a better procurement method implemented by the government through open tenders. Earlier, Nik Nazmi said he believed that Asean countries have the potential to become the leading green hydrogen hub due to their abundance of renewable energy sources and strategic location. – Bernama Hot spell could make open burning worse, public told oSuch activities must be strictly prohibited due to serious threat to environment and health, says expert Sabah moves to address water supply issues KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has outlined a number of long-term solution actions to address the issue of clean water supply, and to meet the increasing water demand statewide. Deputy Chief Minister III Datuk Shahelmey Yahya said it was also committed to dealing with the main issues faced by the Sabah Water Department, such as leaking and obsolete pipes, water theft, and the deteriorating quality of raw water sources. He said the long-term solution includes a feasibility study and concept design of the Kota Kinabalu Water Supply Phase III, which is at the concept study stage. “Two new projects have been approved for Tawau in the Third Rolling Plan through the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry and the Rural and Regional Development Ministry. They are the Cinta Mata 2 water treatment plant construction project and the rural water supply project of the Balung Water Supply system and its surroundings.” Shahelmey was replying to an oral question from the state Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal (Warisan-Senallang) at the state assembly sitting yesterday. Mohd Shafie wanted to know what steps have been taken to address the water supply problem in Sabah, which is getting worse and more widespread, especially during the current hot and dry season. Shahelmey also said the water department will also list the proposed relocation of the water intake of the Segaliud plant in Sandakan to Sungai Meliau or Sungai Kinabatangan, as a potential source of new raw water. He said the proposal will also involve a detailed study and design to upgrade the existing water plant, as well as the construction of a raw water pipeline system from the new raw water source to the Betotan Dam in Segaliud, Sandakan. “This proposal will be included as a priority in the Fifth Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan, under the Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Ministry.” Shahelmey said the proposed Sipitang District Water Supply System Phase I will be proposed to be included in the high-impact project, given its potential to supply domestic and commercial treated water. The water department has also proposed the Lahad Datu Water Supply Phase II, under the federal soft loan scheme, he said. – Bernama Technopreneur is new Sirim chairman KUALA LUMPUR: Sirim Bhd has appointed Datuk Khairol Anuar Mohamad Tawi as its new chairman for a period of two years effective May 20. In a statement yesterday, it said the appointment was made to replace Tan Sri Dr Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, who has completed his term of service. Khairol, a technopreneur, started his career at Jabatan Telekom Malaysia in 1983 upon graduation. In 1994, he founded KAT Technologies Sdn Bhd and became its executive chairman after 14 years of service in various positions with Sapura Group. Khairol is a certified professional engineer by the Board of Engineers Malaysia and is on the Board of Advisers of Digital Perak Corporation Bhd. He has held several positions as a director on the boards of institutions such as Tabung Amanah Melaka, National Sports Institute, MAIM Holdings Bhd and a fellow of the Malaysian Institute of Management. He is also the founding president of the Bumiputera Retailers Organisation. – Bernama █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] Strengthen parties to gain support: Zahid GEORGE TOWN: All Barisan Nasional (BN) component parties must strengthen themselves in order to gain support of their own members and non-member voters, said BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He also reminded the component parties, namely MCA, MIC and Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah, to continue empowering their respective parties as the foundation of BN. “What is important is cooperation with all parties in the BN outfit, as well as respect the existence of other parties in the unity government,” Ahmad Zahid said after officiating the Southeast Asia Semicon Conference 2023 here yesterday. “There are 19 parties in it. I don’t want any party to feel kecil hati when we work under this smart partnership,” he said. – Bernama THORNY DELIGHT ... A trader in Seri Kembangan showing his prized durian. Prices for the ‘king of fruits’ are expected to increase, following low supply due to recent floods. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Supply of sugar in Kedah adequate, says ministry ALOR SETAR: The Kedah branch of the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has given its assurance that the supply of sugar is under control and is sufficient to meet the needs of consumers in the state. Its director Affendi Rajini Kanth said consumers do not need to panic over claims of a shortage of sugar in Kedah, as the ministry monitors controlled goods in the state from time to time. “I have organised all the areas alleged to have experienced a shortage of sugar, including the districts of Kuala Muda, Sik, Langkawi and Kubang Pasu, by bringing in sugar supplies at a Rahmah price of RM5 for every two kg.” Affendi said five tonnes of sugar were available at sales outlets around the Gurun area, near Kuala Muda, Sik and Sungai Petani (Kuala Muda), under the Rahmah Sales programme yesterday, while another three tonnes of sugar was available at Rahmah prices in Kuala Ketil (Baling), Jitra (Kubang Pasu) and Langkawi yesterday. He added that he had not received any official complaints about the sugar supply shortage from consumers in Kedah, only allegations on social media of Control of Supplies Act 1961 violations. “Areas like Kubang Pasu and Langkawi have enough sugar. I have just heard that the supply of sugar has been affected in other places like Yan, Pendang, Kulim, Bandar Baharu. Consumers should lodge a complaint directly with the Ministry, so that I can arrange a solution. “I will make sure that the supply of sugar is made available in the area at Rahmah prices. “I would also like to remind traders not to hoard or raise the price of sugar at will, as strict action will be taken against them under the Control of Supplies Act.” He added that the inflow of sugar into Kedah was the same as last month, so there should be no sugar supply issues in the state. He said there might be some panic buying following the news of a possible shortage. – Bernama RM400,000 aid for SEA Games medallist KUALA LUMPUR: The Youth and Sports Ministry yesterday agreed to provide a comprehensive assistance package of RM400,000 to Southeast Asia’s 400-metre queen Shereen Samson Vallabouy to further develop her potential on the world stage. Minister Hannah Yeoh said the assistance was to enable the 24-year-old SEA Games women’s 400m gold medallist to continue her training programme in the United States after graduating from Winona State University in Minnesota this month. She said the package includes the cost of accommodation, coaching, meal allowance, supplements, cyro treatment, sports massage services and tournament exposure. “This package will start from June 1 this year until July 2024, which will enable Shereen to undergo training at Lifespeed Athletics Florida under the supervision of coach Derrick White.” With the assistance, Hannah also expressed hope that Shereen, who is also the national record-holder, will work hard to qualify on merit for the World Championships this August in Budapest, Hungary, to win gold at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games and qualify on merit for the 2024 Paris Olympics. At the recently concluded 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia, Shereen lived up to expectations to win the gold medal with a time of 52.53 seconds, merely a month after smashing the 30-year-old national record of 51.80s at the 63rd Annual Mt SAC Relays in California. The women’s 400m national record previously belonged to the late Rabia Abdul Salam, who clocked 52.56s in the Philippines in 1993. Yeoh said the assistance to Shereen was a commitment to further empower women’s involvement in sports, which is one of the ministry’s priorities at the moment. “I believe this will motivate potential young athletes to prove their abilities so that they can enjoy similar assistance.” Meanwhile, Yeoh said the National Sports Council is in discussions with another national athlete, Umar Osman, to identify the form of support he needs ahead of the Hangzhou Asian Games and the series of competitions after that. – Bernama Govt to enforce festive max price scheme KUALA LUMPUR: The government will implement the Festive Season Maximum Price Scheme for the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day 2023, involving eight items for the period May 27 to June 2 for the Kaamatan Festival and May 29 to June 4 for Gawai Day. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said the scheme will only be in effect in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan and its implementation period was in line with the current situation, benefitting consumers and traders. “Apart from that, six types of products from the chicken and eggs category will be controlled under the Maximum Price of Chicken and Eggs scheme, which came into effect on Feb 5, 2022. “The list of goods, the maximum price and implementation period are determined based on several factors such as the weather, global economy, foreign currency exchange rates, wage rates and demand and supply,” he said at a press conference yesterday. – Bernama Sabah to table, debate anti-party hopping Bill KOTA KINABALU: Adequate time will be given to ensure that the amendment to the Sabah State Constitution, involving the Anti-Party Hopping Bill, could be tabled and debated at the current sitting of the state assembly, said Speaker Datuk Seri Kadzim M. Yahya. He said there was no problem in terms of tabling of the Bill, although it was placed in the fourth and last position to be tabled. “The Standing Orders (of the current assembly sitting) have only a minor amendment involving the waqf, land and forest Bill. After that, we will take as much time as possible to ensure amendments to the state constitution, involving the Anti-Party Hopping Bill, could be debated.” On May 16, Kadzim said the Anti-Party Hopping Bill was not on the assembly agenda, as he had not received notification from the Sabah government on the matter. – Bernama Ex-footballer turns successful cattle breeder Zulkifli said he is able to cut the cost of animal feed for his cattle with a mix that includes grass and corn silage. – BERNAMAPIC oInitially with no experience, farmer now sought for his knowledge the profit is small and that made me decide to switch to hybrid cows, which can fetch a price of more than RM5,000 even when the animal is only five or six months old.” Mohd Zulkifli, who is also known as “Abe Zack”, said even with no basic knowledge in the field, he was still able to make his venture a success and now has more than 100 hybrid cows, Bernama reported. “My success gained the attention of the Farmers’ Organisation Authority, which then provided grants to five hybrid cattle breeders last year, and that number has increased to 13 this year, to expand the industry. “The authority wants to have a good hybrid cattle breeding ecosystem so that large-scale ‘sado’ cattle and beef cattle projects can be implemented in the future.” Mohd Zulkifli said as the mentor to participants in the Farmers’ Organisation hybrid cattle project, he is responsible for providing training on animal husbandry. The former Kelantan football player and athlete said he has also succeeded in reducing the cost of food for his hybrid cattle. “The mistake which many people wanting to venture into this field make is buying the animal first, and only after getting the cow do they think about its food, which is wrong. “My approach is different. I studied the feeding routine of the cows first. Then, I planted napier and wild grass in abundance on my farm.” He said many farmers also grew corn and the waste from the plants, such as the stalks, leaves and kernels are suitable for use as corn silage. “I feed my cattle with the grass, as well as the corn silage and animal feed. In this way, I can reduce the cost.” Apart from becoming a mentor to other cattle breeders, Mohd Zulkifli also shares his experience and techniques in animal husbandry on social media. BACHOK: A former football player with hardly any experience in animal husbandry, Mohd Zulkifli Ali, 38, ventured into cattle rearing three years ago with seven crossbred cows known as the Kedah-Kelantan (KK) breed on a plot of land owned by his parents in Kampung Panjang. Sometime later, he took a bold step by switching to rearing hybrid or “sado” cows of the charolais, limousine and mega breeds. Now, his experience and knowledge in the field is sought by many, not only cattle breeders but also by the relevant agencies keen to emulate his success. “The cost of rearing KK cows is high, but

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 MP seeks stay on RM2m damages order in defamation suit PUTRAJAYA: Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng has filed an application in the Court of Appeal for a stay of a court ruling for him to pay RM2 million in damages in a defamation suit filed by MonSpace (M) Sdn Bhd and its founder Datuk Seri Jessy Lai Cha Suang. His lawyer Guok Ngek Seong, when contacted, confirmed that the notice of motion was filed yesterday with a certificate of urgency. In the application, Lim wants the court to stay a High Court decision on March 16 ordering him to pay damages, pending the disposal of his appeal in the Court of Appeal. He is also seeking an interim stay of the High Court decision. On March 16, the High Court ordered Lim to pay damages to the e-commerce company and Lai after allowing their suit. Lim subsequently filed an appeal on the same day. Guok said case management has been fixed for tomorrow before a Court of Appeal registrar. On Monday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court dismissed Lim’s application for a stay of the High Court decision, prompting him to file the application in the Court of Appeal. In the suit filed in June 2019, Lai said Lim had claimed that she was running an illegal business and had cheated Chinese investors. She added that the MP’s statements, published in English and Chinese media, had implied that she was a dishonest person. Lai said Lim made the statements in May 2017 and November 2018 when he took a group of individuals, purportedly MonSpace’s investors, to her office and subsequently lodged police reports against her. She claimed that Lim’s statements had pressured the authorities, including police, Bank Negara Malaysia and the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry, to take action against her. In the High Court decision, Judge Datuk Akhtar Tahir said the court found that MonSpace and Lai have proven their claims against Lim. – Bernama Anti-ticket scalping law to be enacted KUALA LUMPUR: A law against ticket scalpers will be formulated, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He said the ministry would further discuss the matter with the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry. “I have discussed it with Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub and we found that there is no law yet. “As such, we will also work with other ministries to see what legal provisions need to be created to avoid the problem.” On the reselling of concert tickets at higher prices for Coldplay’s KL concert, Fahmi said Live Nation Malaysia had explained that as many as 700,000 attempts to purchase the tickets had been recorded, with a total of 71,000 tickets sold through 26,000 transactions. “So, what we have decided yesterday evening is that the ministry and Live Nation will work together to identify if there is ticket scalping, while the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will help by (checking) to identify who may be behind the accounts of the ticket sale,” he said. This follows complaints of difficulty in purchasing the tickets due to scalpers buying in bulk. Meanwhile, Salahuddin said a study on the formulation of a law on scalping was timely, with the development of various industries currently. – Bernama Court grants leave to club owners for review of life ban KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court yesterday granted leave to the owners of Crackhouse Comedy Club Mohamad Rizal Johan Van Geyzel and Shankar R. Santhiram to initiate judicial review proceedings against Kuala Lumpur City Hall for revoking its business licence and permanently banning them from starting any business in Kuala Lumpur. Their counsel Sangeet Kaur Deo, when met after proceedings in chambers, said Judge Datuk Amarjeet Singh, in allowing the application, set June 6 for the next case management. The lawyer said her clients had withdrawn the third, fourth and fifth defendants from the application as the decision (in revoking the licence) was made by then Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah. Mohamad Rizal and Shankar filed the application on Nov 24, 2022, naming City Hall, Mahadi, then oApplicants seeking declaration that decision by City Hall was unconstitutional and prohibited under law RM6,000 fine for having porn on phone KUALA LUMPUR: A maintenance worker was yesterday fined RM6,000, in default three months’ jail, by the Ampang Magistrate’s Court for possessing 169 pornographic pictures and videos on his mobile phone. Magistrate Amalina Basirah Md Top meted out the fine on Mazlan Firdani Marzuki, 30, who pleaded guilty to the charge. He was charged with possessing 92 pornographic images and 77 videos in his mobile phone at a house in Taman Ampang Indah, Ampang Jaya at 10.45am on April 20 last year. The charge, framed under Section 292 of the Penal Code, provides imprisoment of three years or a fine, or both. He paid the fine. Prosecuting officer from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission Nur Nazhzilah Mohammad Hashim prosecuted, while lawyer Ernie Ahmad from the National Legal Aid Foundation represented Mazlan Firdani. – Bernama Trio to pay RM2,000 each for football brawl IPOH: Three men were fined RM2,000 each, in default three months’ jail, by the Magistrate’s Court yesterday for rioting during a football match at the Perak Stadium last Saturday. Magistrate S. Punitha meted out the fine on Mohamad Amirul Asnil Mat Pandir, 26, Muhammad Aiman Firdaus Badrul Hisam, 21, and Muhammad Hayyan Sufi Mohd Sabri, 20, after they pleaded guilty. Another accused, aged 17, was allowed bail of RM1,500 in one surety pending his probationary report and the court set June 28 for mention. The four were jointly charged under Section 147 of the Penal Code with rioting at the stadium at 9.17pm. The incident occurred during a Super League match between Perak FC and Selangor FC. All the accused were represented by lawyer Robert S. Gnanarajan, while DPP Nasrul Hadi Abdul Ghani prosecuted. – Bernama Kelantan, Thailand to boost cooperation to combat cross-border crime TUMPAT: Kelantan police will step up cooperation with Thai authorities to tackle cross-border crime, especially pertaining to the smuggling of drugs, illegal immigrants and contraband. State police chief Datuk Muhamad Zaki Harun said all district police chiefs at the border areas would be in close contact with their counterparts in Thailand to exchange relevant information. “For example, the Tanah Merah police chief would always be in contact with the police in Waeng district, Pasir Mas with Sungai Golok district, Tumpat with Takbai district and Jeli with Buketa district police. “Strategically planned actions between the two authorities have thwarted efforts by syndicates to smuggle drugs,” he said at an Aidilfitri open house at the Tumpat police headquarters on Monday. Also present was Narathiwat Province Border Security deputy commander Police Col Somchai Srisorayut. – Bernama CANNIBALISED BIKES ... Sentul district police chief ACP Ahmad Sukarno Mohd Zahari (centre) showing seized motorcycle frames at a press conference yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Federal Territories deputy minister Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias, the Federal Territories Ministry and the government as the first to fifth respondents. They are seeking a declaration that the decision to revoke the club’s licence was against the law and a declaration that the decision made by Jalaluddin, as well as the ministry to ban them was unconstitutional. They also requested a court order to cancel the decision on the grounds that they have a fundamental right under the Federal Constitution to conduct a business with a valid licence. In their supporting affidavit, they said on Aug 17 last year, Jalaluddin had issued a statement that the City Hall licencing committee had decided to cancel the club’s licence effective July 30 the same year and the owners were blacklisted. They claimed that the decision had severely affected them as entrepreneurs, Bernama reported. The club’s owners also claimed that they never received any official notice or letter from City Hall. Mohamad Rizal is also facing charges for allegedly creating and initiating the distribution of videos on racial sensitivities. According to the three charges, Mohamad Rizal is accused of making and initiating the transmission of offensive communications with intent to offend others via Facebook, using the profile name “Rizal van Geyzel”, Instagram account “rizalvangeyzel” and TikTok account “rizalvangeyzel” between July 4 and 6, 2022. The three posts were read at the Cyber and Multimedia Crime Investigation Division Office, Bukit Aman Commercial Crime Investigation Department at the Bukit Aman police headquarters at 1.17pm on July 13. The charges were framed under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, punishable under Section 233 (3) of the same Act, which provides a fine of RM50,000 or imprisonment not exceeding one year, or both, and a further fine of RM1,000 for every day the offence is repeated after conviction.

6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Seven killed in Thai school roof collapse oSeveral houses also damaged by storm BANGKOK: Seven people, including four children, were killed when a roof over a school sports field collapsed in a storm in Thailand, officials said yesterday. The children, aged between six and 13, were playing in the open-sided building at a school in Phichit province on Monday, watched by a number of spectators. At about 6.30pm (7.30pm in Malaysia) the storm struck, according to local media, and heavy rain and high winds caused the roof to collapse suddenly. The fatally injured adults were two parents and a janitor while 18 people were injured, said the provincial office of public relations. A video shared on the Facebook East Timor independence hero Gusmao’s party wins polls Rich Taiwan student found dead hours after marrying man B R I E F SINDONESIA VOLCANO SPEWS LAVA JAKARTA: Indonesia’s Mount Merapi, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, erupted yesterday, spewing lava more than 2km from the crater. Dramatic images of lava pouring from the volcano’s smoking crater were published by government-run Merapi Volcano Observatory. Dozens of small tremors related to Merapi’s eruption were recorded yesterday, according to the Centre for Research and Development of Geological Disaster Technology, a government agency that monitors the volcano. “Merapi’s activity slightly increased over the last few days but these kinds of increases often occur in Merapi,” said agency head Agus Budi Santoso. – AFP IMRAN QUESTIONED ON GRAFT CHARGES ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan was questioned yesterday by an anti-graft agency on corruption charges, his lawyer said, less than a week after he rejected a summons to appear and denounced the allegations against him. Imran, who said corruption charges have been concocted, is embroiled in a confrontation with the powerful military, which has ruled Pakistan directly or overseen civilian governments throughout its history. “He has joined investigation,” said Imran’s lawyer Faisal Chaudhry, referring to his client’s questioning by officials of the National Accountability Bureau. Imran’s wife Bushra Khan also faces graft charges but only her husband had been questioned so far. – Reuters AGAINST ALL ODDS ... Gurkha veteran Hari Budha Magar, the first above-theknee double amputee to scale Mount Everest, waving towards the media upon his arrival in Nepal capital Kathmandu yesterday. – REUTERSPIC page of the local public relations office showed a twisted mess of metal, with poles and corrugated iron lying crumpled on the ground. The storm also damaged several houses in Sam Ngam district. “All the houses have been damaged by the storm but this arena just completely collapsed,” local mayor Kannika Intarakul told the ThaiPBS broadcaster. Schools in Thailand commonly have a sports pitch with an open-sided roof to protect children from the fierce tropical sun while they play. A six-year-old boy was rushed to hospital but died of his injuries. Those injured remained in two hospitals, where they were receiving treatment. None were reported to be in a serious condition. The incident comes as Thailand enters monsoon season, with heavy rain forecast for much of the country in the coming days. “In a blink of an eye, I heard a sound just like in a war zone and in a span of five seconds, the storm reached me,” another witness told ThaiPBS. Neighbouring Myanmar was recently battered by Cyclone Mocha, which swept across Rakhine state, killing 145 people. Safety and maintenance standards in Thailand are sometimes lax and building collapses are not unknown. – AFP India makes cough syrup testing mandatory for exports NEW DELHI: India will make tests mandatory for cough syrups before they are exported, a government notice showed yesterday, after Indian-made cough syrups were linked to the deaths of dozens of children in Gambia and Uzbekistan. Any cough syrup must have a certificate of analysis issued by a government laboratory before it is exported, effective June 1, the government said in a notice dated May 22 and shared by the Health Ministry yesterday. India’s US$41 billion (RM187 billion) pharmaceutical industry is one of the biggest in the world but its reputation was shaken after the World Health Organisation (WHO) found toxins in cough syrups made by three Indian companies. Syrups made by two of these companies were linked to the deaths of 70 children in Gambia and 19 in Uzbekistan last year. “Cough syrup shall be permitted to be exported subject to the export sample being tested and production of certificate of analysis,” said the notice issued by the Trade Ministry. The Health Ministry did not immediately respond to a query on whether testing would be required for cough syrups sold in the domestic market. The notice identified seven federal government laboratories where samples could be sent for testing, in addition to other state laboratories certified by a national accreditation body. Indian tests of cough syrups made by Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd, linked to the deaths of children in Gambia, found no toxins but contaminants were detected in many drugs made by Marion Biotech, whose syrups were linked to deaths in Uzbekistan. Reuters reported last week that India was considering a change to its pharmaceutical industry policy, including increased testing of cough syrups as well as of raw materials for drugs. The firms deny any wrongdoing. The health minister and federal and state regulators also held a brainstorming session in the city of Hyderabad earlier this year “to find a solution to exported cough syrups that killed children”, a document from the prime minister’s office dated May 15 showed. – Reuters TAIPEI: An 18-year-old high school student in Taiwan, who inherited millions of dollars, fell to his death just two hours after allegedly marrying a man he met just twice, the victim’s mother alleged. The student from central Taiwan’s Taichung city, surnamed Lai, inherited a property portfolio worth NT$500 million (RM74 million) from his father shortly before his death. His body was discovered on May 4 lying on the ground outside an apartment building in Beitun district where his husband of two hours, identified as a 26-year-old man surnamed Hsia, lived on the 10th floor. The death was brought to light by Lai’s mother, surnamed Chen, who held a news conference on May 19 alleging foul play in her son’s death. Chen claimed her son was “not gay” and only met Hsia twice before his death. Lai died just a day after the cremation of his father, who died in late April, Chen said, according to Singapore’s The Strait Times. Hsia, an escrow assistant, had taken out Lai from their home on the pretence of handling real estate business on that fatal day. Hsia and Lai then registered their marriage and after two hours of their wedlock, Chen was informed of her son’s death. Chen told reporters that she “would never accept” that her son died by suicide because he had “no reason to”. She described her son as an “obedient boy” set to read philosophy at a local university and had just obtained a motorcycle licence and a new scooter. Her lawyers claimed that the family believed Lai, who inherited around 30 properties, was killed because of his wealth. Taichung district prosecutors said Hsia was questioned under suspicion of homicide and later released on NT$300,000 bail. Forensic medical expert Kao Ta-cheng examined Lai and the ground where the body was found. Kao claimed the injuries Lai suffered showed the student was unlikely to have fallen from the 10th floor, as there were no haemorrhages in his head or abdominal cavities. – The Independent DILI: East Timor independence hero Xanana Gusmao’s party won the parliamentary election but is short of an outright majority, official results showed yesterday. The National Congress for Timorese Reconstruction (CNRT) led with 41.6% of the votes while its main rival and incumbent coalition leader Fretilin got 25.7%, according to the electoral commission. The result of Sunday’s election paves the way for a return to power for the 76- year-old Gusmao, East Timor’s first president, if he can form a coalition. If there is no outright winner, the constitution gives the party with the most votes the opportunity to form a coalition. Voters cast their ballots for 65 seats in Parliament, hoping to end years of deadlock in Asia’s youngest country. CNRT secured 31 of those seats, and will have to work with one or more other parties. It won the presidential election last year, with Gusmao’s ally and Nobel Peace laureate Jose Ramos-Horta taking the post. But Fretilin led the incumbent coalition government going into the Sunday election. Fretilin fought for an end to Indonesia’s occupation of East Timor, and Gusmao led its military wing. He was elected East Timor’s first president in 2002 after the country gained independence. He split from Fretilin in 2007 to found CNRT. That year, Gusmao became prime minister and served in that post until 2015. – AFP

7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 ‘Ukrainian sabotage group fighting in Russia’ KYIV: Moscow said on Monday that its troops were battling a Ukrainian “sabotage” group that infiltrated the southern Russian region of Belgorod as locals fled the latest bout of fighting in the troubled territory. In a first since the start of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February last year, Russian authorities introduced an “anti-terror regime” in Belgorod. Since the start of the war, the region bordering Ukraine has been repeatedly shelled in attacks that have killed dozens of people, and the region’s main city was struck last month by a Russian fighter jet that dropped ammunition over Belgorod by accident. In the latest incursion, members of a “sabotage” group crossed over from Ukraine, Russian authorities said, adding that President Vladimir Putin had been notified. Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov said eight people had been injured, adding that authorities were helping people leave the scene of the fighting. The announcement came as Russian forces pummelled the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro with missiles and drones, while Kyiv insisted it was still fighting for control of the flashpoint eastern city of Bakhmut. “The situation here continues to be extremely tense,” Gladkov said. The governor added that authorities were going door to door to notify local residents. “Most of the population left the territory. “I hope that our military will complete their task in the nearest future.” The “anti-terror regime” introduced in the southern region gives special powers to security services and entails the enforcement of a number of restrictions and measures including beefed up security and communications surveillance. Members of the anti-Kremlin Freedom of Russia Legion claimed responsibility for the incursion into Belgorod. In a video released by a Telegram channel claiming to represent the group, a camouflaged spokesman, surrounded by armed men in fatigues, said: “Russia will be free!” – a slogan frequently used by Russian opposition activists. “We want our children to grow up in peace and be free,” the spokesman added, with the channel claiming that two settlements including Graivoron had been attacked. “Ukraine is watching the events in Russia’s Belgorod region with interest and is studying the situation, but has nothing to do with it,” said Ukrainian presidential adviser Mikhaylo Podolyak. Podolyak suggested that Russian “guerilla groups” could be responsible. “The only driving political force in a totalitarian country of tightened screws is always an armed guerilla movement.” – AFP B R I E F SDRIVER HELD AFTER CRASH NEAR WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON: Secret Service officers detained the driver of a U-Haul box truck in the US capital on Monday night after the vehicle crashed into a barrier near the White House, the agency said in a statement. “There were no injuries to any Secret Service or White House personnel and the cause and manner of the crash remain under investigation,” it said. Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi later said in a tweet that a “preliminary investigation reveals the driver may have intentionally struck the security barriers at Lafayette Square”, adding that charges would be filed. Local CBS affiliate WUSA9 reported that what appeared to be a Nazi flag had been found during a search of the U-Haul. – AFP POLICE CLASH WITH RIOTERS IN WELSH CAPITAL LONDON: A dozen police officers were injured in “large scale disorder” in a district of the Welsh capital Cardiff on Monday after two teenagers died in an accident. Two cars were set alight and scores of youths, some covering their faces with masks, threw rocks, paving slabs and fireworks at officers with riot shields in the city’s Ely area, according to live-streamed YouTube images. South Wales police and crime commissioner Alun Michael said the riots followed rumours that the two teenagers had died in a crash while being chased by police. “My understanding is that there was a road traffic accident involving two teenagers on an off-road bike or scooter. And sadly, they died,” he said, adding: “There were rumours of a police chase, which wasn’t the case.” – AFP Arson suspected in Guyana school fire GEORGETOWN: The fire at a schoolgirls’ dormitory that killed 19 people in Guyana may have been started “maliciously”, police said on Monday as anger grew in the small South American country the day after the blaze. Sunday’s inferno gutted a building housing girls aged 11 to 12 and 16 to 17. During a press conference on Monday afternoon, Guyana police commissioner Clifton Hicken said an “initial investigation suggests that (the fire) was maliciously set”. “Our investigation is continuing,” Hicken told reporters, joined by President Irfaan Ali, who declared three days of national mourning. No suspects have yet been identified, Hicken added, although he expects to have more information in the next 48 hours. “Fourteen youths died at the scene, while five died at the Mahdia District Hospital,” according to a fire department statement. The government had previously said 20 people died in the blaze at the Mahdia Secondary School in the central part of the country. Guyana, with a population of 800,000, is South America’s only English-speaking nation. It is a former Dutch and British colony which recently discovered it holds the world’s largest per capita oil reserves. After the tragedy, a dozen children received hospital treatment locally while six serious cases were airlifted to the capital Georgetown. “Two children remain in critical condition, while four are nursing severe injuries as a result of the incident,” the fire brigade said. – AFP TikTok sues to stop ban in US state WASHINGTON: TikTok on Monday filed a lawsuit in the US federal court to stop the state of Montana from implementing an overall ban on the video-sharing app. The unprecedented ban, set to start next year, violates the constitutionally protected right to free speech, TikTok argued in the suit. “We believe our legal challenge oSuit claims Montana prohibition violates right to free speech will prevail based on an exceedingly strong set of precedents and facts,” said a TikTok spokesman. Montana governor Greg Gianforte signed the unprecedented prohibition into law on May 17. Gianforte said on Twitter that he endorsed the ban in order to “protect Montanans’ personal and private data from the Chinese Communist Party”. “The state has enacted these extraordinary and unprecedented measures based on nothing more than unfounded speculation,” TikTok contended in its lawsuit. Five TikTok users last week filed a suit of their own, calling on a federal court to overturn Montana’s ban on the app, arguing that it violates their free speech rights. The state is trying to exercise national security power that only the federal government can wield and is violating free speech rights in the process, both suits filed against Montana argue. TikTok called on the federal court to declare the Montana ban on its app unconstitutional and block the state from ever putting it into effect. “Montana can no more ban its residents from viewing or posting to TikTok than it could ban The Wall Street Journal because of who owns it or the ideas it publishes,” the lawsuit filed by TikTok users contends. The app is owned by Chinese firm ByteDance and is accused by a wide swath of US politicians of being under the tutelage of the Chinese government and a tool of espionage by Beijing, something the company furiously denies. Montana became the first US state to ban TikTok, with the law set to take effect next year as debate escalates over the impact and security of the popular video app. The prohibition will serve as a legal test for a national ban of the platform, something that lawmakers in Washington are increasingly calling for. The Montana ban makes it a violation each time “a user accesses TikTok, is offered the ability to access TikTok or is offered the ability to download TikTok”. Each violation is punishable by a US$10,000 (RM45,700) fine every day it takes place. Under the law, Apple and Google will have to remove TikTok from their app stores and companies will face possible daily fines. The prohibition will take effect in 2024, but would be voided if TikTok is acquired by a company incorporated in a country not designated by the US as a foreign adversary, the law reads. – AFP Quartet ‘untraceable’ after US$100mil drug case acquittal MONROVIA: Liberian authorities on Monday admitted they had lost all trace of four drug dealers linked to a cocaine shipment worth US$100 million (RM457 million) after a trial jury unexpectedly acquitted them. With US and Brazilian assistance, Liberian security officials had in October last year seized a container full of the cocaine. The four men – one Liberian, a Portuguese, a Lebanese and a Guinea-Bissau national – were arrested trying to take ownership of the 520kg of cocaine smuggled from Brazil, said Justice Minister Frank Musah Dean Jr. It was touted as one of Liberia’s biggest successes against drug smugglers. But on May 18, a jury in Monrovia found them not guilty and the court ordered the US$200,000 cash taken from them be returned. The four fled straight after their release by the court, said Musa Dean. “They can’t be found. We don’t know where they are. They have fled,” said Information Minister Ledgerhood Rennie. The case lit up social networks with questions about the value of a people’s jury in the West African nation. Musah Dean warned the verdict undermined efforts to clamp down on the illegal drugs trade. “The accused were caught red-handed attempting to take ownership of the container holding the illicit drug by attempting to bribe the businessman housing the container. “Yet the court through the 12-man jury said such brazen evidence didn’t warrant a guilty verdict.” – AFP COSTUMED PARTY ... Dressed attendees posing in the Honour Courtyard before taking part in the ‘Fetes Galantes’ fancy dress evening at the Chateau de Versailles, outside Paris, on Monday. – AFPPIC

8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 SPEAK UP Reduce risk of heat illnesses MALAYSIA is currently experiencing a severe heatwave across the nation. As of May 17, the Health Ministry has reported 14 cases of heat-related illnesses, of which four have been identified as heatstroke, four as heat exhaustion and the remaining six as heat cramps. Cases are expected to rise until the middle of this year as the heatwave continues, with temperatures averaging between 33°C and 35°C. The continuously elevated temperatures can adversely affect people, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, which can vary from minor conditions, such as heat cramps, to more severe conditions, such as heat stroke. Heat stroke This is a severe heat-related illness, characterised by a significant increase in body temperature (hyperthermia), with little or no sweating (anhidrosis), and can alter sensorium after prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures. However, anhidrosis is a late finding and may not be present during physical examination. Core body temperatures above 40°C are usually diagnostic, although heat stroke may seldom occur with lower body temperatures. Early symptoms include behavioural changes, confusion, delirium, weakness, agitation, slurring of speech, nausea and vomiting. Other possible central nervous system symptoms include seizures, cranial nerve abnormalities and cerebellar dysfunction. Patients may develop vital organ injury, unconsciousness, multiple organ failure and ultimately coma and death if proper treatment is not given promptly. Heat exhaustion This occurs as a result of excessive sweating when the body loses an enormous amount of water and salt. It is characterised by symptoms, such as profuse sweating, dizziness, thirst, reduced urine output and feelings of nausea and vomiting. In cases of heat exhaustion, the body temperature may be slightly elevated (less than 40°C) or within the normal range. Physical examination may reveal cool and clammy skin. If left untreated or unresponsive to treatment, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke. Heat cramps These commonly occur in individuals who engage in strenuous activities and experience significant sweating. This condition is often observed in individuals who consume only water or hypotonic solutions. When we sweat, our bodies lose both fluids and salts. Insufficient salt levels can lead to painful muscle cramps, primarily affecting the calves, thigh muscles and shoulders. Heat rash Excessive sweating can lead to skin irritation, characterised by redness, red spots or a rash in areas, such as the neck, chest and elbow creases. These symptoms may cause discomfort and itchiness. Prolonged and repeated exposure to heat can even result in chronic dermatitis. The symptoms and signs of heat stroke can resemble those of other central nervous system diseases, such as meningitis or encephalitis. In early May, there was a misreported case of a 12-year-old boy’s death in Kluang, Johor, initially attributed to heat stroke. The boy exhibited symptoms, such as fever, shivers, agitation and seizure. However, further investigations revealed that the cause of death was actually “septic shock, secondary to meningoencephalitis”, which was unrelated to heat stroke as previously reported. Therefore, due to the similarities in symptoms between central nervous system diseases and heat stroke, it is crucial to consult trained medical professionals for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Treatment of heat-related illnesses For minor heat-related illnesses, the primary treatment involves rapidly cooling the body temperature. It is important to move the patient to a cool environment, preferably indoors. Clothing should be loosened or removed to enhance heat dissipation through the skin. An effective approach is to combine cool water spray, with continuous airflow over the body, such as using a fan or air-conditioning unit. Other cooling methods, such as cold-water immersion can also be used. However, the patient should not be wrapped in wet towels because this will act as insulation and may increase the body temperature instead. While cold-water immersion can be used as a cooling method, it is crucial not to wrap the patient in wet towels as this can act as insulation and potentially raise the body temperature instead. In the case of major heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, immediate and efficient cooling measures are essential. The patient should be promptly taken to a cool and shaded area. Remove any unnecessary clothing and begin tepid sponging. Apply cool compressions to the armpits, neck, groin and head. For individuals experiencing heat stroke, it is crucial to arrange for an ambulance to transfer them to the nearest hospital for further medical intervention. Failure to recognise and appropriately manage heat stroke can lead to irreversible injury and even death. Preventive measures It is also vital to remain alert and monitor the current weather forecast, especially the heat index, which can easily be accessed on the MetMalaysia website. People are advised to limit outdoor activities and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat stroke. Wearing dark-coloured clothing should be avoided as it can absorb more heat, potentially raising body temperature. Opting for light-coloured and loosefitting clothes allows for better sweat evaporation, aiding in body cooling. Proper hydration plays a crucial role in treatment. It is important to note that feeling thirsty may not be a reliable indicator of fluid needs. Monitoring the colour of urine can serve as a better indicator, as a dark yellow colour may suggest dehydration and the need for increased fluid intake. In mild cases, rehydration can be achieved by increasing oral intake of water or, preferably, isotonic drinks to maintain the balance of electrolytes in the body. However, if the patient is unable to tolerate oral fluid, experiencing confusion or unconscious, it is necessary to initiate intravenous (IV) fluids for rehydration and electrolyte replacement. Refrain from consuming sweet, carbonated drinks as well as alcoholic beverages. Drinking too much coffee and tea is also not advisable as they have a diuretic effect and will lead to more loss of fluids. Extra preventive measures for school children For children, it may take longer for their bodies to increase sweat production compared to adults. Infants and younger children also have more trouble regulating their body temperature, partly due to their limited understanding of the importance of staying hydrated. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to monitor and encourage their children to drink an adequate amount of fluids. School teachers also need to play a vital role in ensuring that their students are drinking fluids regularly. Several schools in the Klang Valley have taken proactive measures, such as making periodic announcements, to remind and encourage students to stay hydrated by consuming drinks. The Education Ministry has taken steps in the right direction by temporarily halting outdoor activities until the weather condition improves. Additionally, vehicles parked under the scorching sun can get extremely hot and a child should never be left unattended in a parked vehicle. They will be susceptible to confinement hyperpyrexia (a subtype of heatstroke). Overall, adhering to the above-mentioned preventative steps and staying well-informed is extremely crucial and will reduce the risk of ourselves and our children developing heat-related illnesses. Dr Punithavathy Shanmuganathan, Senior Lecturer in Family Medicine and Dr Lim Yin Sear, Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University. Comments: [email protected] Make Malaysia Madani a reality OUR country is renowned for its slogans. Walk into any school and you cannot help but notice walls adorned with attractive slogans. However, more often than not, these slogans tend to serve as mere decorations rather than valuable tools. Unfortunately, they go unnoticed. Government departments and private organisations alike have their own set of slogans, often highlighting values, such as integrity, honesty and dependability. However, these too often end up being nothing more than superficial decorations as people tend to overlook their significance. The nation has a new slogan – Malaysia Madani. This slogan emphasises the core values of sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, care and compassion. If followed, these excellent values will make us an outstanding nation. I would like to emphasise the core value of respect. Trust, care and compassion are all intertwined and come with respect for each other. We need to respect one another, regardless of our background or identity, as we are all citizens of this nation we proudly call Malaysia. Nevertheless, it is disheartening to witness how certain politicians, driven by their desire to gain support, display a lack of respect for others. They resort to insulting specific segments of society, employing labels that can be deeply hurtful. Such behaviour is particularly distressing, especially when it is accompanied by a lack of evidence to support their claims. Recently, my wife and I had the pleasure of attending a Raya open house hosted by our neighbour. We were overwhelmed by his hospitality and touched by the respect shown to us. It was a heartwarming experience and served as a poignant reminder of the beauty of the country we call home. Let us learn to respect and appreciate one another. We can be from different religions and have diverse backgrounds but we all share a common bond as residents of this nation. Let us strive to cultivate respect for one another and put an end to baseless accusations. Tearing others down for personal gain will only hinder our collective progress. My fervent wish is to witness the realisation of Malaysia Madani, and not for it to be just another slogan on the wall. Devaraj Ramoo Seremban COMMENT by Dr Punithavathy Shanmuganathan and Dr Lim Yin Sear LETTERS [email protected]

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 theSun ONWEDNESDAY | NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON WEDNESDAY | NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS THE OBJECTIVES TO achieve greater unity among Malaysians TO maintain a democratic way of life TO create a just society in which the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared TO ensure a liberal approach to her rich and diverse cultural traditions TO build a progressive society which shall be oriented to modern science and technology RUKUN NEGARA: THE PRINCIPLES BELIEF IN GOD LOYALTY TO KING AND COUNTRY THE SUPREMACY OF THE CONSTITUTION THE RULE OF LAW COURTESY AND MORALITY THE OBJECTIVES TO achieve greater unity among Malaysians TO maintain a democratic way of life TO create a just society in which the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared TO ensure a liberal approach to her rich and diverse cultural traditions TO build a progressive society which shall be oriented to modern science and technology RUKUN NEGARA: THE PRINCIPLES BELIEF IN GOD LOYALTY TO KING AND COUNTRY THE SUPREMACY OF THE CONSTITUTION THE RULE OF LAW COURTESY AND MORALITY Designate Kaamatan as wellness day PENINSULAR folks should join in the Kaamatan or rice harvest festival, being held next Wednesday, as it has much in common with the Dongzhi (Winter Solstice) observed by the Chinese and the Ponggal celebration of the Indians. All three festivals commemorate humanity’s roots in nature and sustenance by the plant world. When the bobolian, or high priests and priestesses, recite their chants to bambaazon during the magavau ritual of the Kaamatan, they are acknowledging and respecting the spirituality inherent in nature. Bambaazon, the spirit of nature, is embodied in every part of rice, in birds, insects and animals as well as in the rains and all other natural occurrences. The seemingly religious formalism of Kaamatan is meant to preserve humanity’s ancestral bonds with nature and plant life. Ancient ties are the same in all human cultures, although commemorated differently in accordance with the differing traditions that developed in separate regions of the world. Kadazandusun, Indian and Chinese civilisations are rooted in agriculture and their indigenous religions mirror the affinity to plant life. In the Kadazandusun legend of “Huminodun”, the beautiful and wise daughter of “Kinoingan” the Creator, the people on earth were going hungry because of a severe drought and Huminodun sacrificed herself to save them. She transformed her body into food: her flesh produced rice, her head turned into coconuts, her bones into tapioca, her fingers into ginger, her teeth into corn, her knees into yams, while other parts morphed into various edible plants. Through her great act of selflessness, the padi fields were protected from natural damage and the days of good harvests returned. Notice the absence of meat. The vegetarian practices of Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Taoism harken back to a time when the cultures of India and China were crop-based, and so were the cultures of the indigenous people of Canaan (ancient name for Palestine) and the early ancestors of the Jews. Unknown to many, the Torah scripture in the biblical collection prescribes vegetarianism as the ideal diet for humans. This message is clear from a reading of the first chapter of the first book of the Torah, which has God saying: “I’ve given you every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth and every kind of fruitbearing tree, given them to you for food.” (Genesis 1:29). The next verse upholds respect for animal life by its prescription of a vegetarian lifestyle for the animals as well. “Also, to every beast of the earth, to every bird of the air and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, I have given every green herb for food.” Clearly, a literary hyperbole to idealise green living. Nevertheless, the Torah also weaves in meat-eating through epic drama, alluding to the tortuous relationship between farmers and herders. The dichotomy of crop-based and livestock-based cultures, with their attendant violence, is portrayed in the story of brothers Cain and Abel. Cain is a farmer while Abel takes up livestock rearing. Cain is the elder and that is historically correct because farming was invented 2,000 years earlier than herding. Cain and Abel made separate offerings to God, who did not approve of Cain’s fruits and veggies but was greatly pleased with Abel’s choice cuts of meat. Torah listeners would have understood this tale as an allegory, with Cain representing the farmers and Abel representing the herders. An embittered Cain murders Abel and suffers extreme consequences. Livestock herding developed into a prime industry as indicated in the Noah flood epic. Among the animals that Noah took aboard his ark were livestock as revealed in this verse: “Then God turned his attention to Noah and all the wild animals and farm animals with him on the ship.” (Genesis 8:1). Noah did not take any plants or seeds into his ark. The leaning towards meat became pronounced as the following verse reveals: “Noah built an altar to God. He selected clean animals and birds from every species and offered them as burnt offerings on the alter. And the Lord smelled a soothing aroma.” (Genesis 8:20-21). Meat soared to the top of the list of most desired foods with this verse: “All living creatures are yours for food; just as I gave you the plants, now I give you everything else.” (Genesis 9:3). Except for certain forbidden meats. Many chapters on, and with the march of civilisation, the Torah unfurls a legend of the ancient Israelites who roamed the Sinai desert for some 40 years after escaping slavery in Egypt. Forming a robustly fit army, they conquered Canaan. What kept them healthy in the desert? A herb they called manna, which was likely to be coriander. “The Israelites named it manna. It looked like coriander seed, whitish.” (Exodus 16:31). Coriander seeds have antiinflammatory and anti-diabetic effects, can increase HDL (good cholesterol) while reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglyceride levels, have antioxidant properties, and can inhibit growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in the body. Despite their love for meat, wheat production remained central to the livelihood of the ancient Israelites, and the consumption of unleavened bread was a central feature of their most important feast of the year – the Passover. The bread was made of high-fibre grain without yeast or baking powder, just as the ancient Chinese and Indians consumed unpolished rice, that is, brown rice or whole grain rice, as a staple food. The National Health and Morbidity Survey in 2019 found that two out of three Malaysians are unhealthy. Treating diabetes alone is costing the nation RM3 billion annually. The survey found diabetes afflicting 3.9 million people in Malaysia. This is one in five adults, the highest rate in the Western Pacific region and one of the world’s highest. Diabetes is a leading cause of coronary heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, limb amputation and blindness. The survey also found that one in two adult Malaysians is overweight, one in 10 has high blood pressure and two in five are living with high cholesterol. Unhealthy diets and lifestyles are the main causes of this escalating health crisis. There is a gap between how long we live and how long we live healthily, and the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 has established that Malaysians spend the last nine and a half years of their lives in a sickly state, requiring costly medical care. The National Institutes of Health in the US sponsored a nationwide study of stroke risk factors in 2017. The study found that the ideal diet should be plant-based, consisting mostly of dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, beans, seeds, whole grains and fish. Intake of red and processed meats, sweetened foods and drinks, and saturated and trans fats should be limited. Designate the Kaamatan festival next week as “Wellness Wednesday”, and make it an occasion for all Malaysians to strengthen their resolve to follow a healthy plant-based lifestyle by abstaining from any kind of food or drink that is bad for their health. Our government should also impose stricter rules on the food and beverage industry instead of merely relying on individual efforts. For a start, compel all restaurants to offer brown rice as an alternative to white rice. Thewriter champions interfaith harmony. Comments: [email protected] I WRITE to express my deep concern over the recent incident involving a panther that was struck by an MPV at Bukit Tangga in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. This incident sheds light on several pressing issues that demand our immediate attention and action. Firstly, the incident serves as a reminder of the repercussions of uncontrolled development in our country. The relentless clearing of forests for agriculture and housing projects has disrupted the natural habitats of countless wildlife species, forcing them to venture out in search of food and shelter. The panther, being a predator, had to explore unfamiliar territories due to the diminishing availability of prey in its natural habitat. Moreover, the extremely hot weather conditions, exacerbated by climate change, have further intensified the challenges faced by our wildlife. The panther, like many other species, was compelled to seek refuge in friendlier habitats that could provide respite from the scorching heat. It is distressing to witness how environmental changes, largely influenced by human activities, are pushing our wildlife to the brink of survival. As a responsible member of the global community, Malaysia pledged its commitment to the Paris Climate Change Treaty, emphasising the importance of sustainable development and environmental preservation. However, incidents like the one at Bukit Tangga highlight the urgent need to reinforce our efforts and adopt proactive measures to protect our valuable ecosystems and wildlife. Preserving wildlife is not just a matter of moral responsibility, it is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems. Each species plays a unique role in the web of life, and the loss of even a single species can have far-reaching consequences. Protecting our wildlife means safeguarding the health of our forests, the purity of our water sources and the sustainability of our environment for future generations. This incident also highlights the need for stricter enforcement of speed limits and greater awareness among motorists about the importance of wildlife conservation. Implementing appropriate measures, such as speed bumps or warning signs, can significantly reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future. To prevent further loss of wildlife, we must prioritise environmental sustainability and engage in responsible land-use planning. This should involve adopting sustainable agricultural practices that minimise forest clearance, promoting reforestation efforts for degraded areas and preserving critical wildlife corridors. Additionally, public education and awareness campaigns can play a pivotal role in fostering a culture of empathy and respect for wildlife among the populace. In conclusion, the tragic incident serves as a wake-up call for us to take immediate action to protect our wildlife and preserve our environment. As a nation committed to the Paris Climate Change Treaty, we must prioritise sustainable development and implement effective measures to safeguard our valuable ecosystems and the biodiversity they support. By working together, we can ensure a brighter, more sustainable future for both humans and wildlife. Suzianah Nhazzla Ismail Shah Alam AI error is human error A RECENT article by MIT researchers titled “AI models fail to reproduce human judgements about rule violations” at first glance suggests that AI systems tend to make more stringent judgements compared to humans due to their inability to comprehend the entire context of a situation. According to the article, if an AI model is not trained with the right data, it is likely to arrive at different and harsher analyses than the average human. It is essential to remember that AI relies solely on data. The data-driven approach of AI involves training algorithms using extensive digital information to learn patterns and make informed decisions. However, the data consumed by AI can be biased since it is generated by humans. In my lectures, I emphasise to my students that the effectiveness of AI is dependent on the quality of the data it is fed. If the data annotators, who are responsible for preparing the data, impart biases or lean toward certain perspectives in their input, the resulting AI model will inevitably display those same biases. Bias in AI refers to the systematic errors or unfairness that can occur when AI systems reflect the nuances that are in the data used for training. Since AI algorithms learn from historical data, they may inadvertently inherit societal biases related to race, gender or other sensitive attributes. This can lead to discriminatory outcomes or reinforce existing biases when making decisions. It is the responsibility of the AI engineer to ensure that their models are balanced. This can be achieved by rigorously auditing the dataset, engaging a diverse and inclusive team of co-auditors, employing ethical guidelines for data input, and performing continuous evaluation and improvement to ensure the credibility and integrity of the dataset. Turing Award laureate Geoffrey Hinton quit his role at Google to highlight the importance of ethics in AI. Google itself has been responsible for ensuring that AI models are equipped with the required ethical safeguards. Dr Mohd Zafri Baharuddin Senior Lecturer Universiti Tenaga Nasional Panther roadkill gruesome wake-up call LETTERS [email protected] “Make it an occasion for all Malaysians to strengthen their resolve to follow a healthy plantbased lifestyle by abstaining from any kind of food or drink that is bad for their health.

10 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 MEDIA & MARKETING Get a jump start today on creating a successful tomorrow! For the best in local and international higher education institutions, catch theSun's fortnightly Education Focus. FOCUS 2023 EDUCATION Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. THE Fintech Association of Malaysia (FAOM) held its Annual General Meeting recently and elected a new committee for its 2023/2025 term of office, reporting a growth of 40 new members via an extensive outreach program via more than 40 engagements over the year. The meeting also passed a resolution to bring under its umbrella the Malaysian Youth Fintech Association (www.myfint.org), which will now be recognised as the official youth vertical under FAOM. In addition, members also voted to pass another resolution to extend the tenure of Exco and Committee members to 2 years per term, from the previous one-year term, to cement and facilitate continuity in initiatives and outreach. “I am honoured to be able to serve as President once again, with the support of a strong Exco and dynamic Committee line up. With the fresh mandate and the 2 resolutions passed by members at the AGM, the association will further expand our membership base, and work hand in hand with the regulators and all relevant stakeholders to shape the future of the Malaysian Fintech industry,’ said Wilson Beh. FAOM which was established in 2016, has grown from strength to strength and is now officially recognised as the Fintech industry association on the Bank Negara Malaysia website, boasting more than 100 members from across the entire spectrum of Fintech verticals and support industries. FAOM’s main objectives are to accelerate innovation in the financial sector, connect entrepreneurs and startups in their initial steps and be the catalyst toward better national policies, legislation, and regulations in Fintech. These aims are guided by the 5 pillars of Regulatory Awareness, Investment Facilitation, Market Entry and Expansion, Tech Adoption and Talent Development. FAOM’s 2022 highlights included: 0 Co-founding member of ONE ASEAN Fintech, a regional-level alliance for Fintech associations with reciprocal benefits for FAOM members 0 Securing a permanent secretariat office at the Asian Institute of Charted Bankers building 0 Hosted a free-to-attend Digital Banking Conference with Bloomberg 0 Hosted a DITO industry roundtable for members, attended by Bank Negara and co-facilitated with all Big 4 accounting companies 0 Actively engaged with regulators, industry practitioners and associations from Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines and Indonesia 0 Hosted industry sessions with World Bank, MDEC, Temasek Trust, International Financial Centre, Bloomberg, Chainanalysis, Carsome, KAF Digital Bank, PayNet, Fusang Digital Securities Exchange, to name a few. Moving forward, FAOM key initiatives will include: 0Building Fintech thought leadership in key policy-making areas affecting the Malaysian Fintech industry 0To launch a Certified Fintech Profession qualification in collaboration with Asian Banking School, aimed at enhancing knowledge and skills within the greater financial services industry 0 To work with regulators in curating and hosting industry events for the benefit of the industry generally and profiling the Malaysian fintech industry specifically 0Enhancing engagements with other non-Finance related digital entities such as MDEC and MOSTI To enhance member onboarding and community-driven activities towards nurturing a strong Fintech eco-system as the industry evolves and matures. The complete list of office bearers for the 2023- 2025 Term is: Executive Committee Members President: Wilson Beh (PolicyStreet) Vice President: Farah Jaafar (Fusang Digital Securities Exchange) Secretary: Jonathan Lim (Zaid Ibrahim&Co, in association with KPMG Law) Treasurer: Anil Singh (Silverlake) Committee Members Arvin Singh (Hoolah/Shopback) Calvin Foo (Grab Digital Bank Project Malaysia) Jubin Mehta (Tune Protect Malaysia) Marc Fong (FWD Group) Mukesh Dhawan (Drivn) Tang Mun Wai (SEA/Shopee) Vincent Xu (Finology) For more information about FAOM, please visit: fintechmalaysia.org. To get in touch with Wilson directly, you may email [email protected]. S UNWAY Healthcare Group (SHG) celebrated Raya Open House 2023 with a spread of delicious food and exciting lucky draw prizes on May 11, 2023, at Sunway Putra Hotel. About 600 people came for the celebration, and they were entertained with music, songs, mouth-watering food, and the amazing lucky draw prizes, which included free health screenings and a stay at Banjaran Hotsprings. At the event, Sunway Healthcare Group’s Managing Director of Healthcare and Hospital Operations, Dr. Khoo Chow Huat, said operations will soon begin in Towers D, E, and F at their flagship hospital and at a new tower at Sunway Medical Centre Velocity. “Besides, we are also working on our expansion for SMC Penang and the opening of our new hospitals in Damansara and Ipoh next year,” said Khoo, adding that new hospital projects were approved in Kota Bharu, Iskandar in Johor, and Paya Terubong on Penang Island. Sunway Healthcare Group, an integrated private healthcare group, has a network of hospitals and healthcare services, including Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, Sunway Medical Centre Velocity, Sunway Medical Centre Penang, Sunway Specialist Centre Damansara and supplementary services like Sunway TCM Centre, Sunway Fertility Centre, Sunway Home Healthcare and Sunway Sanctuary. The invitation to the event suggested that guests wear traditional or batik attire, but surprisingly, not just the Malay but even the Chinese and Indian guests attended in gorgeous Malay traditional attire. All the guests were dressed to their best in stunning Baju Kurung and Baju Kebaya Moden, and even the host noticed and told the audience to give themselves big applause for turning up in traditional attire. The event ended with the presentation of the muchanticipated grand prize. It was a wonderful celebration, and audiences were elated to be a part of the event! Sunway Healthcare Group’s president Datuk Lau Beng Long’s and the SHG Team, all dressed up for the occasion. █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI Hari Raya with Sunway Healthcare Group oSunway Healthcare Group (SHG) held a splendid Raya celebration Fintech Association of Malaysia elects new committee

KLCI 1,411.54 STI 3,218.08 6.99 HANG SENG 19,431.25 SCI 3,246.24 10.47 NIKKEI 30,957.77 129.05 TSEC 16,188.03 7.14 KOSPI 2,567.55 S&P/ASX200 7,259.90 WEDNESDAY MAY 24, 2023 Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] 5 MOST ACTIVES May 23, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) HSI-CLQ 10,665,200 2.5 -2.5 REVENUE 99,778,200 28.5 -1.5 TWL 76,919,600 4.0 -0.5 HSI-CLZ 65,876,200 27.0 -5.5 BAHVEST 64,895,000 16.0 +0.5 EXCHANGERATES MAY 23, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.6270 4.4930 4.4720 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0920 2.9680 2.9400 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4300 3.3300 3.3230 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4170 3.3260 3.3020 1 EURO 5.0010 4.8390 4.8020 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.9190 2.8110 2.7790 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4300 3.3300 3.3230 1 STERLING POUND 5.7590 5.5790 5.5430 1 SWISS FRANC 5.1330 5.0160 4.9950 100 UAE DIRHAM 127.2100 120.6000 119.9500 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.3780 4.1070 3.8920 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 65.7000 63.1000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 59.6000 56.6400 56.3200 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.6700 5.3200 5.0900 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0322 0.0291 0.0240 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3380 3.2320 3.2340 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 16.1000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.6400 1.5400 1.3300 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.3900 7.9100 7.7000 100 QATAR RIYAL 128.1500 121.6500 121.1000 100 SAUDI RIYAL 124.4900 118.1800 117.5500 100 THAI BAHT 13.9900 12.4100 12.0400 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY May 23, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,370.60 -45.20 FBMKLCI 1,411.54 -7.46 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 568.36 -0.95 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 164.13 -0.95 CONSTRUCTION 160.23 -1.11 FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,410.20 -78.40 ENERGY 836.85 -5.08 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 598.81 -4.47 HEALTH CARE 1,933.21 +9.57 TRANSPORTATION 909.58 +3.27 PROPERTY 689.84 -1.66 PLANTATION 6,975.15 -53.10 FBMSHA 10,742.20 -46.90 FBMACE 4,917.79 -37.70 TECHNOLOGY 56.99 -0.80 TURNOVER VALUE 2.458 BIL RM1.655 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS May 23, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEXTECH 32,700 24.50 +0.50 RAPID 38,600 20.46 +0.46 YNHPROP 102,500 4.85 +0.19 PERTAMA 10,117,600 2.82 +0.14 SAM 534,600 3.99 +0.14 5 TOP LOSERS May 23, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEIM 103,300 27.04 -0.32 HLFG 288,300 17.50 -0.30 NESTLE 18,600 134.70 -0.30 KLK 1,506,400 22.60 -0.20 UWC 1,318,900 2.79 -0.20 S’wak: Board of guardians for sovereign wealth fund KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Sovereign Fund, to be established with an initial sum of RM8 billion, has passed registration and is now progressing towards the formation of its board of guardians, announced Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg. He said that the board will comprise professionals who are selected based on their integrity, background, and expertise in investment and capital markets. “It’s not only composed of Sarawakians or Malaysians, but also includes professionals from multinational backgrounds. We are seeking individuals with experience in investment in the capital market and expertise in multiplying seed capital. According to the law, we require a board of 11 members, we plan to appoint eight.” “I have attended sovereign fund forums oMembers will comprise professionals who are selected based on their integrity, background and expertise in investment and capital markets █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] Sports Toto registers RM1.66b revenue for third quarter, declares 2 sen dividend PETALING JAYA: Sports Toto Bhd (SPToto) reported RM1.66 billion revenue in the current quarter under review, registering a drop of 4.2% over the revenue of RM1.73 billion in the previous year’s corresponding quarter. The group also registered RM40 million pre-tax profit, which is a decline of 67.4% from the pre-tax profit of RM122.4 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The drop in results for the current quarter ended March 31, 2023 was mainly due to the performance of STM Lottery Sdn Bhd (STM Lottery) and H.R. Owen Plc (H.R. Owen) which reported drop in revenue and pre-tax profit as compared to the previous year corresponding quarter. STM Lottery’s current quarter revenue was lower by 11% as it had fewer draws (i.e. 41 draws versus 43 draws in the corresponding quarter) conducted in the current quarter under review. In addition, the higher revenue reported in the previous year corresponding quarter was attributable to the Toto Supreme 6/58 lotto game reaching a record accumulated jackpot prize. The drop in pre-tax profit of 69.4% was in line with the lower revenue attained and the higher prize payout in the current quarter under review. H.R. Owen’s revenue was on par with the previous year corresponding quarter. However, the revenue dropped by 3.5% when converted into ringgit, being the reporting currency of the group, due to the unfavourable foreign exchange effect. Its pretax profit was lower by 86.3% to RM4.9 million from RM35.8 million recorded in the previous year corresponding quarter. Used car sector profit margin softened in the current quarter from the exceptional profit level reported in the previous year corresponding quarter due to the new car supply constraints then. In addition, the company also faced challenges on the impact of continued inflationary costs pressures and higher finance costs arising from interest rate hike in the UK. In the current 9-month period ended March 31, 2023, SPToto reported a revenue of RM4.5 billion, representing an increase of 18.9% over the revenue of RM3.8 billion reported in the previous year’s corresponding period. The group’s pre-tax profit has also increased by 27.6% to RM242.1 million over the pre-tax profit of RM189.8 million reported in the previous year’s corresponding period. The higher revenue was mainly attributed to better performance attained by STM Lottery but partially set off by H.R. Owen’s results in the current period under review. STM Lottery registered revenue and pretax profit growth of 47.7% and 57.6% respectively as compared to the previous year corresponding period. The improved results was primarily attributed to the full resumption of business operation in the current period ended March 31, 2023 whilst the previous year corresponding period business operations were adversely affected following the cancellation of thirty seven (37) draws with the imposition of nationwide lockdown from June 1, 2021 to September 13, 2021. H.R. Owen’s revenue rose 2.9% in the current period ended March 31, 2023 as compared to the previous year corresponding period. However, when converted into ringgit, its revenue dropped by 2.8% due to unfavourable foreign exchange effect. In spite of the increase in revenue, H.R. Owen’s pre-tax profit declined by 79.2% to RM15.8 million in the current period from RM76 million in the previous year corresponding period which had benefitted from the exceptionally strong demand in used car as a result of new car supply constraints. The board has declared a third interim dividend of 2 sen per share in respect of the financial year ending June 30, 2023 and payable on July 21, 2023. The entitlement date has been fixed on June 30, 2023. The third interim dividend distribution for the financial year ending June 30, 2023 will amount to RM27 million. With this, the total dividend distribution for the financial period ended March 31, 2023 is approximately RM87.7 million. Malaysia’s gross domestic product growth is expected to moderate in year 2023. The Number Forecast Operation (NFO) business industry in Malaysia continues to be vigilant and to navigate carefully through changes in the local government policies. Nevertheless, the management is cautiously optimistic that the NFO business will continue to improve the per draw sales growth supported by stronger consumer spending, rebound of tourism activities and better-than-expected labour market conditions. 7.46 246.92 50.23 3.40 in Norway, London, Singapore, as well as our own. The core principle of it is the Santiago principle, which we must comply with in terms of fund management. Furthermore, we aim to ensure that the returns are well calibrated to effectively protect the fund,” he told reporters during the 5th Malaysian Banking and Finance Summit which took place yesterday. In November last year, Abang Johari announced that Sarawak will set up a sovereign wealth fund with an initial amount of RM8 billion to strengthen the state’s financial sustainability. This comes after the state legislative assembly unanimously approved the Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund Board Bill. “Sarawak must grow and diversify our source of revenue to be economically and financially sustainable. I learned that sovereign wealth funds are a strategy for many countries to invest excess capital into markets or other investments. Therefore, we must build up wealth for Sarawak when our oil and gas reserves run out in the future,” he said during his keynote speech. Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future fund will adopt a capital maximisation model, where it benchmarks against Norway’s sovereign wealth fund known as Norway Government Pension Fund Global with a fund size of US$1.25 trillion (RM5.7 trillion). The same model is also adopted by US Alaska Permanent Fund Corporation with a fund size of US$70.6 billion. Abang Johari said that these countries’ sources of revenue are also from oil and gas, similar to Sarawak. “Simply, the fund would enable Sarawak to convert nonrenewable assets to financial assets, invest for the future through forced savings and secure the continued growth of financial reserves through diversified investments. Ultimately, this will create an endowment to generate sustainable sources of income for future generations. “This fund is set up according to best international practices to ensure appropriate governance and an internationally accepted level of integrity and transparency when dealing with public funds,” affirmed Abang Johari. Participation 46.0 27.2 26.8 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 775.7 463.1 417.3 1656.1 Sold RM m 746.6 439.6 469.9 1656.1 Net RM m 29.1 23.5 -52.6 0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 23/05/2023

12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 SUNBIZ /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME Affin Bank neutral on OPR, wants to enhance Casa ratio KUALA LUMPUR: Affin Bank Bhd has a neutral stance in response to the recent overnight policy rate (OPR) hike, acknowledging the increase in its loan rates and also highlighting the corresponding rise in the bank’s cost of funds. On this note, the bank’s president and group CEO Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah Wan Ali emphasised its focus on enhancing the banks current account and savings account (Casa) ratio. “Our plan is to focus on Casa through our digital channels, branches, and better customer service. These are all the means through which we aim to improve our Casa ratio. The stronger the Casa ratio we have across the board – SME, retail, and corporates – the stronger the bank will become,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the 5th Malaysian Banking and Finance Summit yesterday. Earlier this month, Bank Negara Malaysia’s monetary policy committee (MPC) raised the OPR by another 25 basis oLender’s focus remains on retail and SME banking, as it continues to prioritise these segments for growth █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] points (bps) to 3% in a surprise move. Maybank Investment Bank Bhd, Malaysia and regional head of equity research Anand Padmakanthan in a research note dated May 8, said that in Malaysia, banks stand to benefit from BNM’s OPR hike via net interest margin (NIM) expansion, although net impact this time around will be diluted by heightened competition for deposits and declining Casa ratios. “Nonetheless, potential share price weakness stemming from anticipated lackluster Q1’23 reporting (due primarily to weak NIM) is now an even more attractive opportunity to accumulate. Our top picks are HLBK, RHB and Alliance, while we also have BUY ratings for AMMB and CIMB,” Anand added. In addition, Affin’s Wan Razly said that currently, its Casa ratio stands at 23%, representing a significant improvement from 14%. The bank aims to further increase this ratio to 30% by 2025, with aspirations to surpass this milestone if possible. However, it acknowledges that achieving this target will require time and effort. Wan Razly also affirmed that Affin’s focus remains on retail and SME banking, as it continues to prioritise these segments for growth. Regarding the US and European banking crisis, he expressed that the bank is taking a cautious stance, recognising that any developments in the western market have the potential to spill over into Asia in some way. “We want to be guarded against any crisis or concerns that may come out of the crisis,” he said. Meanwhile, last month the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) sold 112.56 million of its shares in Affin Bank to the State Financial Secretary Sarawak for RM221.74 million, representing 4.95% of the total issued shares, via a direct business transaction. “We take it as a positive endorsement of Affin transformation plan now that we have investors like the Sarawak state buying into Affin Bank shares. It indicates that they recognise the positive narrative and the favourable outcomes that Affin Bank’s transformation will bring in the future. “I believe that an increasing number of investors are showing interest in Affin. Moreover, we have recently been included in the FTSE Russell and MSCI indexes, indicating that not only individual investors but also global share indexes recognise Affin’s potential. These additions serve as further positive endorsements of the interest and confidence placed in Affin Bank,” he stated. PETALING JAYA: Genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd recorded a revenue of RM0.68 million for the third quarter ended March 31, 2023 (Q3’23) compared with RM5.08 million in the corresponding quarter in the previous year, as the group continued the pivot towards biopharmaceuticals while focusing on the organic growth of genetic screening services. For Q3’23, it registered a loss before tax (LBT) of RM3.24 million compared with a profit before tax (PBT) of RM1.96 million, which is largely due to increased spending to expand its existing business, as well as prepare to commence the development of products including novel biologics and protein design services that will open two new market segments for the group. Concurrently, work has commenced on preparations for the study of the group’s mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of osteoarthritis, burns and stroke, among other applications, with a view to obtaining regulatory approval from the Ministry of Health as clinically-registered products in the future. These efforts require additional investments in scientific expertise, research and development expenditure as well as marketing. The group registered a revenue of RM6.14 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2023 compared with RM22.03 million for the same period last year. It recorded an LBT of RM3.61 million and a PBT of RM3.21 million. Meanwhile, its executive director Azri Azerai (pix) said that the group considers the time, effort and resources to build up the biopharmaceuticals business important to its future growth and sustainability. As such, it is “confident” that this effort will bode well for its future. At the same time, it will continue to seek opportunities to grow the genetic screening business in which it has a long track record. “The group will continue to engage with strategic partners across Southeast Asia, the Middle-East, North Africa region and US to grow our distribution network for (fastmoving consumer goods) FMCG products related to cosmeceuticals, wound healing and genetic-based fitness programmes. “We also recently partnered with Toticell Ltd of Bangladesh to explore the distribution of our cosmeceutical products, genetic screening tests and cell products to a market of about 165 million people. We remain committed to consistently improving access to the latest in precision and p e r s o n a l i s e d healthcare solutions,” he said in a statement. As of May 23, 2023, Malaysian Genomics’ share price is at 53 sen, with a market capitalisation of RM68.4 million. Bank Pembangunan Malaysia wins environmental development award KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Bhd (BPMB) recently received the Environmental Development Award by the Association of Development Financing Institutions in Asia and the Pacific (ADFIAP), reaffirming its leading role in delivering impact capital. BPMB earned the award for its role in a Green Technological Park development project by Nextgreen Pulp & Paper Sdn Bhd. BPMB’s group CEO Roni Abdul Wahab received the recognition award at the awards night during the 46th ADFIAP Annual Meetings in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The project revolutionises the pulp and paper industry by producing woodfree pulp from palm oil production waste. The wood-free pulp can be processed into woodfree paper, utilising renewable energy and zero waste technology. “We are truly honoured to receive this award from ADFIAP. Not only is the project a great model of sustainable business, it creates socioeconomic benefits for the local community and related industries,” said Roni. Celebrating 50th Anniversary this year, Roni said they are proud to support responsible businesses and seek to enable more sustainable projects to meet their purpose of delivering impact capital for Malaysia’s development. Petronas’ Gentari keen to expand clean energy solutions footprint in India KUALA LUMPUR: Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) clean energy solutions arm Gentari Sdn Bhd is keen to expand its footprint in India in clean energy solutions through its three current core offerings namely renewables, hydrogen, and green mobility. The company said India is an important growth market for Gentari and its investments in renewable energy and hydrogen projects in the country are a continuation of memoranda of understanding signed with various state governments. “In Tamil Nadu, we have signed a memorandum of understanding with the state government to conduct feasibility studies on green hydrogen production. We will announce our progress on these investments in due course,” Gentari told Bernama in response to recent reports that Petronas would invest 340 billion rupees (RM18.7 billion) in projects in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. According to these Indian media reports, the national oil company aims to set up a green hydrogen and ammonia plant and its project has received the state government’s clearance. It was one of the five investment proposals from Indian and foreign companies approved at the Cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister M.K. Stalin in Chennai, said the reports. As a country on its way to becoming the world’s fourthlargest economy and the thirdlargest energy consumer, India has vast growth potential for the development of sustainable, reliable, and economical lowcarbon energy, Gentari noted. “This offers opportunities for global players to participate in supporting India’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070, which includes meeting 50% of its electricity needs with non-fossil fuel-based sources by 2030,” it added. Gentari said it has already made good strides in renewables in India with 1.4 gigawatts of solar capacity serving around 350 customers, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as in utility-scale renewables. In addition, Gentari’s green mobility efforts in India have achieved significant milestones, with its Vehicle-as-a-Service already clocking four million clean kilometres through the current fleet of about 1,000 three-wheeler electric vehicles serving third-party logistics and e-commerce operators as well as private users, supported by more than 170 charging points. “Gentari has several initiatives in the pipeline in India and we look forward to announcing new developments in the future,” it added. – Bernama Petronas Gas unit to make RM1.1b prepayment to MISC KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas Gas Bhd’s (PGB) wholly owned subsidiary Regas Terminal (Sg Udang) Sdn Bhd (RGTSU) has inked an agreement with Gas Asia Terminal (L) Pte Ltd (GATL) a wholly owned subsidiary of MISC Bhd to make a one-off settlement for the prepayment of capex hire fees under the time charter parties (TCP) for US$233.6 million (RM1.1 billion). In a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday, it said the prepayment transaction, which represented the residual contract value of RGTSU’s remaining capex hire payment obligations, is for the provision of floating storage units (FSU) – FSU Tenaga Satu and FSU Tenaga Empat at LNG Regasification Terminal Sungai Udang. It said the FSUs would continue to be employed by RGTSU until the end of the contracted charter period and the operating portion of the TCP would remain unaffected. – Bernama Biopharmaceuticals remains key to Malaysian Genomics’ future

13 * SUNBIZ theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 Deleum focuses on ensuring continued earnings growth PETALING JAYA: Leading oil & gas (O&G) services provider Deleum Bhd will focus on growth in its top and bottom lines, spurred by the projected increase in global capital spending in the sector as a result of robust demand for fossil energy. To fuel the group’s next phase of growth, Deleum intends to broaden its product and service offerings, as well as regional presence. It will continue to invest in processes and systems to integrate its services on a seamless and robust platform, increasing the group’s capacity to meet the needs of its clients. Deleum group CEO Rao Abdullah said: “We value our core businesses and will continue working with our principals to strengthen our position in the industry. oOil & gas services company to expand offerings, strengthen regional presence PETALING JAYA: Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz has reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to transform the e-mobility industry in aligning with the sustainability agenda. In addition to the 12th Malaysia Plan, he said, the National Trade Blueprint (NTBp) was also launched to increase Malaysia’s trade competitiveness through an improved business ecosystem. There are eight strategic thrusts under the blueprint and one of them is “Pursuing Sustainability & Innovation”. “One of the initiatives under this thrust is the greening of the global supply chain which includes engagement with industry associations, foreign business councils, and chamber of commerce, to create a seamless development and green growth strategy between buyers and sellers,” Tengku Zafrul said in his keynote speech at a recently held webinar titled “Accelerating Emobility: Insights from Volkswagen Group for Malaysian Companies”. The event was organised by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation’s (Matrade) Frankfurt office together with Volkswagen Group (VW) and its football club, VfL Wolfsburg. The event was organised with the aim of exploring the latest trends, technologies, and procurement strategies by Volkswagen Group via social partnerships with VfL Wolfsburg as a market entry strategy. Tengku Zafrul said, “Moving forward, by the end of this year, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) will announce the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) which encompasses building resilience and capacity for change, and introducing a National Environmental, Social and Governance Industry Framework (i-ESG) for the manufacturing sector.” The opening of the event was marked by a speech delivered by Volkswagen’s brand board member, procurement division, head of group purchasing, and member of the extended group management of VW Group, Dirk Große-Loheide. In his speech, he said the change in decarbonised, electrified and digitalised mobility is taking place in all of Volkswagen’s brands worldwide. “For us in the procurement group, this change also means a realignment of all our tasks in many places. We need to source components that are entirely new to our industry and thus also integrate new partners in our highly complex supply chain,” he added. The webinar was attended by 115 participants who came from various automotive-related industries in Malaysia. Malaysia committed to transforming e-mobility industry While we seek to grow our current business by expanding on market share through crossand upselling within our various segments, we need to set sights on our next growth impetuses in order to create sustainable earnings.” He added that it is not only extending its product and service offerings but also expanding its geographic footprint, particularly in Indonesia and Thailand, as this will allow it to better support and increase its client base in the region as demand grows. “We are committed to executing our strategic initiatives and effectively leveraging our competitive advantages in order to continue with our commendable earnings track record,” said Rao. The group is on the lookout for technological companies with which to collaborate in order to foster technological innovation in its products and services while maintaining its competitive edge. The potential partnership and collaboration with technology partners dovetail Deleum’s aim to achieve transformative growth this year and in the future. Deleum notched up revenue of RM698 million in financial year ended Dec 31, 2022 (FY22), an increase of 25% from the previous year, which was attributed to encouraging spending in the O&G sector. Overall growth was delivered across three segments – power and machinery, oilfield services and integrated corrosion solution. The strong top-line results led to the group’s net profit increasing significantly to RM42.1 million in FY222, up 146.9% from RM17.1 million a year ago, making it the bestever group net profit in the past seven years. At the company’s AGM yesterday, Deleum appointed Tan Sri Shamsul Azhar Abbas as its chairman effective June 1 2023, succeeding Datuk Izham Mahmud, 82, who will continue to remain on Deleum’s board as nonindependent non-executive director. AmInvest launches fund for ‘lower carbon’ investors PETALING JAYA: AmInvest has introduced its Sustainable Series – Global Lower Carbon Equity Fund, a long-term capital growth fund. The fund will feed into HSBC Global Investment Funds – Global Lower Carbon Equity, which invests in a well-diversified portfolio of global companies across developed markets with an overall lower exposure to carbon-intensive businesses. “The new fund is in line with AmBank Group’s commitment to sustainability and adds to the five other Sustainable and Responsible Investment (SRI) funds under the Sustainable Series that AmInvest has already launched,” said AmBank Group CEO Datuk Sulaiman Mohd Tahir, during the launch. AmFunds Management Bhd CEO Goh Wee Peng said the new fund was created for investors who are responding to the climate challenge by adopting strategies to lower the carbon impact of their investment portfolios. “In order to promote effective stewardship towards the delivery of sustainable long-term value to investors, we have pledged our commitment towards the United Nationssupported Principles for Responsible Investment. We are also signatories to the Malaysian Code for Institutional Investors,” she added. The fund’s base currency is the US dollar. It is being offered for subscription to investors in US dollar, ringgit and in ringgit-hedged classes at initial offer prices of US$1 and RM1 per unit respectively during the initial offer period until June 12, 2023. Johor oil, gas sector records RM140b investment since 2000 JOHOR BAHRU: Johor’s oil and gas sector has recorded a cumulative investment of RM140 billion since the industry was actively started in the state in early 2000. Acting chief executive of Johor Petroleum Development Corp Bhd Izhar Hifnei Ismail said most of the investments were made in the Pengerang Integrated Petroleum Complex (PIPC) from 2012. He said other investment locations in the sector in the state include Pasir Gudang, Tanjung Langsat, and Tanjung Bin. “As of March 31 this year, PIPC recorded a total investment of RM124 billion, including from the Petronas and Dialog Group investments. If combined with the oil and gas projects carried out in Pasir Gudang, Tanjung Langsat, and Tanjung Bin, the total investment realised is RM140 billion. “In the next two or three months, we are confident that there will be new investments from foreign companies that see the great potential of PIPC in Pengerang,” he told reporters after the Johor 2023 Oil and Gas Services and Equipment Sector Tour programme at Persada Johor International here yesterday. According to Izhar Hifnei, the development of the oil refinery and petrochemical processing centre at PIPC has created 7,415 job opportunities. – Bernama AVPN, Yayasan Hasanah co-host conference on Asian issues PETALING JAYA: AVPN and Yayasan Hasanah will co-host the annual AVPN Global Conference 2023, marking the first time it will be held in Malaysia and focuses on putting Asian voices at the forefront of global discourse. Entitled “Global Challenges: Asian Solutions”, the conference will focus on Asian leadership to address urgent issues in gender, climate, healthcare and livelihoods through collaboration and community ownership. AVPN CEO Naina Subberwal Batra remarked that there is an urgency to collectively address the critical needs and burning issues in the region. “The conference is the best place to witness the formation and announcement of new partnerships, the innovation of catalytic funding vehicles, and ultimately the movement of more capital towards impact in our region,” Naina said in a statement. Meanwhile, Yayasan Hasanah trustee and managing director Datuk Shahira Ahmed Bazari said they look forward to providing the global and regional delegates with a deeper understanding of the Malaysian social investment context with the wider Asia region. “As the convenor, collaborator, and catalyst for change in the social impact sector, we see it as our responsibility to bring to Malaysia the most current conversations to be had in this space and we can’t think of a better conference to host,” she said. The event will take place in Kuala Lumpur from June 20 until 22. Concurrently, Yayasan Hasanah will organise a social impact conference, the Hasanah Forum. Shahira Ahmed Bazari Naina Subberwal Batra AirAsia X proposes share placement to raise up to RM50m PETALING JAYA: AirAsia X Bhd has announced its intention to enter into a proposed placement of shares with two institutional investors, one of them being a local institutional investor, potentially raising up to RM50 million of new capital. Between 2020 and 2022, AirAsia X had implemented measures to address the company’s financial concerns in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, including its debt restructuring scheme and an array of corporate restructuring and cost-containment exercises. With the continued efforts taken by the company to regularise and improve its financial condition, coupled with the scaling up of its operations after the reopening of regional borders across the world since early 2022, the company turned around its financial performance from loss-making to registering two consecutive quarters of profit for the financial periods ended Sept 30, 2022 and Dec 31, 2022, it said in a statement yesterday. On the back of this momentum, the proposed placement will be a timely and strategic means for the company to raise funds which will primarily be used for the reactivation and maintenance of its fleet. This will be AirAsia X’s first equity fundraising exercise since 2015 as it continues to evaluate its operational and financial performance as well as the viability of its PN17 regularisation plan. Proceeds from the proposed placement will serve as an interim fundraising measure to bolster short-term working capital requirements as the company continues to recover and grow its operations post-pandemic. AirAsia X CEO Benyamin Ismail said: “With this proposed placement, all indicators signal the company is moving into the right direction and will have a much stronger ground for its continued and concerted efforts to revitalise its business, as the industry’s recovery takes place in the near future.”

14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 SUNBIZ @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME India’s May palm oil imports set to drop to 27-month low oMalaysia, Indonesia may lower their offers to regain market share from other edible oils MUMBAI: India’s palm oil imports in May are set to fall to their lowest in 27 months as its rare premium other edible oils prompted buyers to cancel cargoes and replace them with soyoil and sunflower oil, dealers and cargo surveyors said yesterday. The surprising drop in palm oil imports by India, the world’s biggest importer of vegetable oils, could bring down palm oil prices. Malaysia and Indonesia, the two largest global producers, may lower their palm oil offers to regain market share from other edible oils. The benchmark palm oil contract for August delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange fell 1.85% to RM3,365 a tonne after Reuters reported the drop in Indian imports. Around 261,000 tonnes of palm oil was discharged at various Indian ports in the first twenty days of May and another 150,000 tonnes is expected to be discharged in the remaining 11 days, for a total of 411,000 tonnes, according to average estimates from the dealers and cargo surveyors. India’s average monthly palm oil Securities watchdog proposes first set of global rules for crypto sector LONDON: International securities watchdog Iosco – the International Organization of Securities Commissions – yesterday unveiled the first global approach to regulating cryptoasset and digital markets, drawing on lessons from last year’s collapse of the FTX exchange that fuelled concerns over consumer protection. The industry, which typically only has to comply with anti-money laundering checks, has been calling for a global approach to regulation as different jurisdictions follow their own rules. The moves come after crypto exchange FTX began US bankruptcy proceedings last November following a liquidity crisis that prompted intervention from regulators worldwide. Yesterday’s recommendations are a “turning point in addressing the very clear and proximate risks to investor protection and market integrity risks,” said Jean-Paul Servais, who chairs Iosco. The proposed standards cover dealing with conflicts of interest, market manipulation, cross-border regulatory cooperation, custody of cryptoassets, operational risks, and treatment of retail customers. The 18 measures planned apply long-established safeguards from mainstream markets to eliminate conflicts of interest between the different parts of a crypto transaction. The watchdog said it aimed to finalise the standards by the end of the year, and expected its 130 members worldwide to use them to plug gaps in their rulebooks promptly. IOSCO, an umbrella group of regulators such as the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Japan’s Financial Services Agency, Britain’s Financial Conduct Authority and Germany’s BaFin, is canvassing public opinion on the regulations. The step follows the European Union’s finalisation this month of the world’s first set of comprehensive rules, piling pressure on Britain, the United States and other countries to come up with their own norms. – Reuters Qantas issues record profit forecast, increases share buyback B R I E F SSINGAPORE’S APRIL CORE INFLATION UP 5% SINGAPORE: Singapore’s key consumer price gauge rose 5% in April, higher than forecast, official data showed yesterday. Core inflation – which excludes private road transport and accommodation costs – rose 5% year-on-year in April whereas a Reuters poll of economists had forecast a 4.7% increase. Lower inflation for electricity, gas, food, retail and other goods was offset by higher inflation for travel-related services, according to a joint statement by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the trade ministry. – Reuters EUROZONE BUSINESS GROWTH RESILIENT LONDON: Eurozone business growth remained resilient but slowed slightly more than thought this month as the bloc’s dominant services industry lost a little of its shine and the downturn in the manufacturing sector deepened, a survey showed yesterday. HCOB’s flash Composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for the bloc, compiled by S&P Global, fell to 53.3 in May from April’s 54.1. A PMI for the eurozone services industry dipped from April’s one-year high of 56.2 to 55.9. – Reuters Pedestrians crossing an intersection in the rain in the Ginza district of Tokyo yesterday. Data show nominal wages rose 1.9% in fiscal year 2022, the fastest increase in 31 years, but inflation at 3.8% outpaced those pay gains, resulting in real wages falling 1.8%. – AFPPIC imports in the first six months of the 2022/23 marketing year that started on Nov 1 were 818,203 tonnes, according to trade body the Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA). “Palm oil has been replaced by sunflower oil in many parts of the country due to the price competitiveness of sunflower oil,” said Rajesh Patel, managing partner at GGN Research. In April, Indian buyers opted to cancel large amounts of palm oil purchases for the first time in many years and the industry was expecting May imports could fall to 700,000 tonnes. Price-sensitive Asian buyers traditionally rely on palm oil because of the low cost and quick shipping times. But palm oil has moved to a premium to other edible oils at the same time that soft oil prices have dropped, partly because of a record rapeseed crop. Palm oil’s discount to rival oils was as much as US$500 (RM2,285) per tonne in the December quarter, but it started trading at a premium earlier this year as output from Indonesia and Malaysia was curtailed by excessive rains. Palm oil traditionally makes up about two-thirds of India’s vegetable oil imports by offering competitive prices, but its share is down to about 40% in May, said a New-Delhi-based dealer with a global trading house. Sunoil imports in May are set to jump 28% from a month ago to 319,00 tonnes, while soyoil imports could rise 16% to 305,000 tonnes, according to the average estimate from dealers. – Reuters Japan’s factory activity expands for first time in 7 months TOKYO: Japan’s manufacturing activity expanded for the first time in seven months in May, while the service-sector hit record growth, a survey showed yesterday, as the post-Covid recovery shored up business conditions. The au Jibun Bank flash Japan manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) rose to a seasonally adjusted 50.8 in May, from a final 49.5 in April. It’s the PMI’s first reading above 50, which separates contraction from expansion, since October. Output and new orders also returned to expansion territory for the first time since last June. Manufacturers in the survey suggested supply chain disruption brought by the pandemic which battered the sector showed “signs of improvement”. Service-sector activity expanded at the strongest pace on record in May led by the restart of both domestic and international tourism and continued recovery from pandemic disruptions, the survey showed. The au Jibun Bank flash services PMI advanced to a record seasonally adjusted 56.3 in May, from 55.4 in the previous month. The service-sector also showed record expansion in other areas such as total new business, exports and outstanding business. Separately, Japan’s inflationadjusted real wages fell the most in eight years in the fiscal year 2022, government data showed, highlighting the pain of inflation eroding consumers’ purchasing power. Nominal wages rose 1.9% in the last fiscal year ending in March, the fastest increase in 31 years, but inflation at 3.8% outpaced those pay gains, resulting in real wages falling 1.8% in fiscal 2022, the data showed. It was the biggest yearly decline since fiscal 2014, when sales tax increases stoked broader rises in prices and pushed real wages down by 2.9%. – Reuters SYDNEY: Qantas Airways yesterday forecast a record annual profit and increased its share buyback programme by up to A$100 million (RM302.9 million), courting demands from a workers’ union to return billions received as pandemic aid from the government. Australia’s flagship carrier expects an underlying profit before tax of A$2.43 billion to A$2.48 billion for fiscal 2023, slightly higher than a Refinitiv estimate of A$2.40 billion, underpinned by travel demand and a moderation in fuel prices. The forecast profit is nearly A$850 million higher than the carrier’s 2018 record of A$1.6 billion. The better-than-expected forecast irked the Transport Workers Union (TWU), which is currently involved in a court battle with Qantas regarding the sacking of nearly 1,700 ground staff at the peak of the pandemic. The union was also critical of the revised buyback programme, calling for the carrier to pack welfare received during the pandemic. “The A$100 million increase to the share buyback scheme is a kick in the guts to illegally sacked workers who were told their jobs were sacrificed to save this amount of money,” said TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine. Qantas has maintained that of the nearly A$2 billion it received from the government, about half of it was to maintain critical passenger and freight flights to keep exporters connected to overseas markets. There were multiple positive cues for investors in yesterday’s trading update by Qantas, which pointed towards higher demand, better cost management and lower debt. Jet fuel prices remained elevated, Qantas said, but added that a recent drop may deliver cost improvements in the second half. “Overall, this is a positive trading update. The strong trading conditions seen in 1H23 have continued throughout 2H23, driving an earnings and cash flow beat versus expectations,” UBS analysts wrote in a note . – Reuters

2 4 M A Y 2 0 2 3 W E D N E S D A Y founded in Baghdad, the central province of Babylon and parts of southern Iraq, with funding from Britain and the Aliph Foundation, which works to protect cultural heritage in conflict zones. Iraq is still recovering from decades of dictatorship and war, but it faces an additional peril. The United Nations ranks it as one of the world’s five countries most impacted by some effects of climate change. Iraq endures blistering summer heat and frequent dust storms. Declining rain as well as upstream dams have reduced the flow of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers where ancient civilisations flourished. Salim bemoaned the “terrifying” state of the rivers which suffer from rising “water salinity and pollution”. A major aim for him, he said, is to enable young Iraqis to “connect with the environment”. Revive the heritage Salim hails from a prominent family of artists and diplomats – being the son of artist Nazar Salim and the nephew of famous sculptor and painter Jawad Salim. His love for traditional Iraqi boats dates back to 1977, when he was the youngest crew member aboard the Tigris, a ship constructed of river reeds by Heyerdahl, the Norwegian adventurer. To prove that the ancient civilisations of Mesopotamia, Egypt and the Indus Valley were in contact across the seas, they embarked on a 143-day voyage spanning 6,800km, from Iraq through the Gulf and the Arabian Sea to Pakistan and on to Djibouti. In 2013, Salim took part in another expedition of traditional boats, organised by the group Nature Iraq, that sailed 1,200km along the Tigris from southern Turkey to Iraq’s far south. Salim would also love to revive Iraq’s traditional round boat made of woven reeds, the guffa, which resembles a wicker basket that spans more than two metres (six feet). But his ambition is also to find a “business plan” to make his challenging project financially viable and create jobs. One of Iraq’s traditional boat builders is Zouheir Raisan, 40, who lives by the marshes in Huweir, 400km south of Baghdad. Business had stopped in the 1990s but was slowly revived four years ago, a change the father of eight welcomes to supplement his main job as a truck driver. Under the shade of a mudhif reed structure, he was sawing boards and helping his cousin nail them to a boat frame. He said he remembers helping his father and brothers make meshhoufs, some measuring up to 11 metres long. Other countries, he said, are sending experts “in search of this heritage, to encourage its rebirth,“ he said. “Why don’t we bring it back to life ourselves?” – AFP YOUNG Iraqis row a flotilla of traditional wooden boats down the Tigris river in Baghdad, celebrating an ancient nautical heritage in the now drought-stricken country. Once a common sight across Iraq’s southern streams and marshlands, the elongated boats with tapered bows and sterns known as meshhouf have been around “since the time of the Sumerians”, said event organiser Rashad Salim. But the elegant water craft have long been vastly outnumbered by modern, motorised vessels and are threatened further as Iraq’s waterways suffer from droughts linked to climate change. Iraq must save “from extinction an essential facet of our civilisation which has existed for four or five millenia”, said Salim, co-founder of Safina Projects, which works to preserve Iraq’s traditional boating culture. Salim, 62, is a painter, sculptor and eco-artist with a taste for adventure who in his youth joined the famed Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl on a long sea voyage in a traditional Iraqi reed vessel. Five years ago, Salim set out to find Iraq’s last meshhouf makers, locating them in Huweir on the edge of Iraq’s famed M e s o p o t a m i a n marshes, where eventually he would place orders for the construction of new vessels. Salim then went to nautical clubs and helped create teams that would teach young people how to navigate the gondola-like vessels. The flotilla on the Tigris in Baghdad was a landmark event in Salim’s efforts – 18 of the boats took to the water on a spring afternoon as part of a cultural festival. Connect with environment The youthful pilots alternated paddle strokes on the left and right. Some, with only a few weeks’ practice in the lead-up to the event, struggled to hold the course. The meshhouf is part of “the history and heritage of the country”, said one of them, Omar Youssef, 21, who has previous experience with sailing and windsurfing. Those sports “depend on the wind, you have to keep the balance with your body”, he said, w h e r e a s p o w e r i n g t h e meshhouf w o r k s t h e “shoulders and arms”. S e v e n meshhouf c l u b s h a v e been Seven meshhouf clubs have been founded in Baghdad, the central province of Babylon and parts of southern Iraq. The elongated gondola-like boats plying the Tigris river in Baghdad and known as mashhouf are part of an ancient heritage. – ALL PIX BY AFP Against the stream oAn Iraqi artist is battling to save his country’s once legendary boating traditions The traditional meshhouf has long been vastly outnumbered by modern, motorised vessels and are threatened further by droughts linked to climate change. Iraqi artist Rashad Salim is co-founder of Safina Projects which works to preserve Iraq’s traditional boating culture.

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME Still feeling hopeful ON the most recent edition of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Kim Kardashian, 42, who has been single since separating from Pete Davidson, 29, said that she is not adverse to finding love once more. When asked if she was still seeking a significant other, or if she was pleased with her life at this point that dating was not on her radar, she said: ““I think I’ll always be a hopeless romantic and always want to be in love and definitely love sharing my life with someone, and love creating a life with someone.” She added: “I definitely will take my time. And I think there’s so many factors, especially when you have kids and being mindful of people that enter in your life.” She said that although there are other contributing elements, she would always have faith in love and consider it to be a very amazing aspect of life. She also thinks that because she feels quite at ease taking her time and she shouldn’t rush. “There’s so much going on that I’m not lonely, and I think that that is really important. I believe, like, I always believe. And I think that whatever’s meant to be will be.” The Kardashians reality show star stated that “I’m really content.” She is happy because of her children, family, life, and experiences. She noted that her morning workout routine is her mental health check every day when asked how she continues to make time for herself. That means having her own time, and that keeps her sane. Even though getting her kids ready for school might take her up to two hours after that, the drive back is her private time, so she usually ends up blaring her music and avoiding any phone calls. “Any little glimpse I get like that, I just soak it in and then I get to the house and I start my full work day and I’m committed and focused.” Kardashian had three previous marriages, including to Kanye West with whom she has four children. The couple’s divorce was finalised last November, after much acrimony. – by Thashine Selvakumaran Kardashian’s romances have frequently made the tabloids. – INSTAGRAM oFollowing her challenges with romance, Kim Kardashian wants to take her own time to date Melissa McCarthy overcame hostile work environment McCarthy is no stranger to challenging sets. – GETTY COMEDIAN Melissa McCarthy is no stranger to toxic work environment, as she recently revealed in an interview with The Observer. McCarthy also revealed that it was so bad that she became sick, with others in the cast and crew “weeping” due to the toxicity. The experience led McCarthy to realise she can’t remain quiet amid inappropriate working conditions. “I did work for someone once who ran such a volatile, hostile set that it made me physically ill,” McCarthy said. “I think that’s why the manipulation worked, because to get to me this person would fire people I loved, which kept me quiet. It was very effective. Then one day, I was like, ‘It stops today!’ And I know now I’ll never keep quiet again.” McCarthy’s co-star in Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Halle Bailey recently praised McCarthy for teaching her how to speak up and say what works for her on set. In the remake to the beloved underwater classic, McCarthy will be playing the villainous sea witch Ursula. It’s the Oscar nominee’s first big Hollywood musical. She’ll return to comedy in a Christmas-themed movie for Peacock. “It’s a fist fight to try to get comedies made right now. And I don’t know why, because we’ve never needed to laugh more,” McCarthy told The Observer. “Comedy allows you to sit next to somebody whose ideas don’t match up. And maybe you come out a little closer. I think that’s what I’m supposed to be doing in this world.” – by Mark Mathen Victor Vin Diesel discusses Fast spin-offs IN a recent interview during the Rome premiere of Fast X, Vin Diesel teased the possibility of an ending to the Fast & Furious franchise that could span over three separate films. He also expressed some bittersweet feelings over the idea of a finale, but also his gratitude towards every actor and character that managed to move the story along to where it is now. The latest film features the return of franchise fan-favourites Luke Hobbs (Dwayne Johnson) and Gisele (Gal Gadot). Diesel claims that while he was excited to have them back, it was hard to keep the much-needed cameos a secret. With the overwhelming success of the franchise, the development of spin-offs are expected and highly anticipated. According to Diesel, there is even talk of a female-led instalment. He claims that he started developing it alongside the other spinoffs in 2017 and is looking forward to having them take their place in the franchise. Fast X tells the story of Dom Toretto (Diesel) and his family being targeted by Dante (Jason Momoa), the vengeful son of a drug kingpin. The film opened to an admirable US$67.5 million (RM308.24 million) domestically and an impressive US$319 million (RM1.45 billion) globally. – by Yasmin Zulraez Diesel said he had planned a female-led addition to the franchise. – AFP Hollywood remembers Ray Stevenson RAY Stevenson, the talented Northern Irish actor known for his notable roles as the villainous British governor in RRR, Volstagg in the Thor films, and an upcoming main antagonist in the Star Wars series Ahsoka, has passed away at the age of 58. Stevenson died Sunday, four days before his 59th birthday, according to his representatives. While filming Cassino in Ischia in Italy, he was suddenly hospitalised with a sudden illness. Following Stevenson’s death, many Hollywood figures have shared emotional tributes for the beloved character actor. Stevenson was known for bringing an imposing but charming aura to the characters he portrayed throughout his three-decade acting career. Rosario Dawson wrote on Instagram: “A giant of a man … Gone too soon from this world. At a loss for words… just wanted to mark this moment and share your ever ready and present smile. Love you forever. Holding your family in my heart.” Scott Adkins tweeted: “I’m shocked and saddened by the tragic news that a great actor and my good friend Ray Stevenson has passed away. I will miss you Big Ray! Life is short so make the most of it people.” Director James Gunn also tweeted “So sorry to hear about the passing, far too young, of Ray Stevenson. I only knew him a little from shooting post-credits of Thor 2 and a couple interactions at events, but we had some good laughs & he was a joy to work with.” Stevenson’s early death is a huge loss to the entertainment industry, and his film and TV work will be remembered fondly. We send our condolences to his family, friends, and fans. – by Hazique Zairill Stevenson enjoyed a long and varied career. – REUTERS

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME AFTER a hilarious first season that saw hosts Yu Jaeseok, Lee Kwangsoo and Kwon Yuri struggle to complete a series of challenges as representatives of the human race, the beloved trio return for an eight-episode second season in THE ZONE: Survival Mission 2, coming June 14, on Disney+ Hotstar. Featuring an upgraded AI 2.0 that sets a series of increasingly difficult challenges, THE ZONE: Survival Mission 2 will see Jaeseok, Kwangsoo and Yuri travel to some of Korea’s most unique destinations as they fight to survive. Spread across eight episodes, season two will throw the hosts into a variety of hilarious situations as they search for life-saving water in a haunted hospital; desperately play golf in an attempt to escape a rapidly sinking island in the middle of the ocean; recreate a series of childhood games on a shaking suspension bridge; try to escape a waterpark full of zombies; and attempt to survive on a travelling bed that’s been hijacked by a rogue AI, that drives the trio through a university campus, venturing into classrooms, crashing them through walls, driving them into a lake, and more. Slated to launch with a three-episode premiere on June 14, followed by a new episode released every week, THE ZONE: Survival Mission 2 is produced by Studio Gaon, directed by Cho Hyojin and Kim Dongjin, and is created by the original team behind the wildly popular Running Man franchise. MARVEL’S Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 trounced the competition for the second straight weekend in North American theatres, earning US$60.5 million for a global haul topping half a billion dollars, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations reported Sunday. The latest tale of oddball intergalactic mercenaries, human and otherwise, again stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel – this time on a mission to save comrade Rocket Raccoon from a scientist intent on removing his brain. Guardians had unseated Universal’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie from the top spot the week before. But the video game-based Mario, which has now earned more than US$1.2 billion worldwide, remained firmly in second spot in its sixth week out, taking in US$13 million for the Friday-throughSunday period. (US$1 = RM4.57) Book Club: The Next Chapter, a Focus Features sequel to a well-received romantic comedy for the older set, came third in its debut weekend with US$6.5 million – described as a “slow start” by analyst David A. Gross, who also acknowledged that “older audiences take their time getting to these movies.” The film, which follows four friends on a grown-up girls trip to Italy, features an allstar quartet of Diane Keaton, Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen and Mary Steenburgen – all of whom are in their 70s or 80s. Warner Bros.’ blood-soaked horror film Evil Dead Rise dropped one spot to fourth, taking in US$3.7 million. It features two sisters (Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland) battling the demonic Deadites crew. In fifth place, also down one spot, was the Lionsgate comedy-drama Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret, at US$2.5 million. Abby Ryder Fortson plays sixth-grader Margaret Simon as she navigates the challenges of that awkward age. Rounding out the top 10 were: 0 Hypnotic (US$2.4 million) 0 John Wick: Chapter 4 (US$1.9 million) 0 Love Again (US$1.6 million) 0 Air (US$750,000) 0 Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (US$740,000) – ETX Studio The Zone returns |this June 14 IRISH pop singer Ronan Keating, known for his ever-popular rendition of When You Say Nothing At All, is set to make his way to Malaysia for his first live performance here in years. Organised by MIC Entertainment Group, Ronan Keating Concert Live In Malaysia 2023 will take place at Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting on Saturday, Aug 19 at 8.30pm. Concert-goers are in for a nostalgic, heart-warming evening with Keating, who has put out songs from classic favourites like If Tomorrow Never Comes and Time After Time to fan-favourite hits including Life Is A Rollercoaster and This I Promise You. Keating debuted in the early nineties as the lead singer of the now-defunct Boyzone – one of the most well-known boy bands of its generation with a long list of chart-topping singles that swept across the world. Since launching his solo career in 1999, Keating has been keeping the music going with a total of twelve studio albums released to date. Joining the ranks of other Irish musicians with a global presence including Westlife, with which he was a co-manager, Keating has sold over 20 million records worldwide, not including the 25 million records with Boyzone. Over the years, Keating has made a name for himself not just as a singer and songwriter, but also as a broadcaster, TV presenter, actor and even a charity campaigner for cancer awareness. Tickets to Ronan Keating Concert Live In Malaysia 2023, will be available online through Resorts World Genting at www.rwgenting.com and ticketing agent BookMyShow at my.bookmyshow.com from May 30 at 12pm onwards. Season two features new challenges, more hijinks than ever before. – DISNEY+ CALL OF DUTY: MOBILE has teamed up with the legendary Kevin Durant to present a series of exclusive in-game collectables and events themed after the superstar basketball player in Season 4: Veiled Uprising. From now to June 8, 2023, fans and players can check out timelimited collectables such as the KD Grim operator skin and Legendary LAPA - No. 35 gun, and dive into exciting activities such as Reaper Rumble Wish, which offers attractive prizes such as the Razorback - Scythe KD. Kevin Durant is a seasoned professional basketball player known for being one of the most difficult players to guard. Always on the ball, Durant’s exceptional skills on the court have won him several accolades throughout his career, including two national championships and two Final MVPs. Durant currently holds the record for being the first to score over 400 points in the Olympic games for the US basketball team, and was also named one of the World’s 100 Most Influential Individuals in the Time 2018 List. In Call of Duty: Mobile, KD Grim sports a black suit that proudly displays his jersey number 35, while carrying a sickle on his back, always showing his unguardable ability to win the game and defeat his enemies. During battle, KD Grim’s weapon of choice is the Legendary LAPA - No. 35, a unique weapon designed to highlight meaningful traits of the basketball player, such as his jersey number under the foregrip and Iron Sight, as well as lightning and basket icons that represent the two teams Durant has played for. Players can also take part in the Reaper Rumble Wish event and stand to win the limited-edition Razorback - Scythe KD. Using tokens collected from completing simple missions, players can select seven preferred rewards from three tiers. Each draw will present players with different rewards, and the consumption of tokens will increase with subsequent draws. Going to outer space oGuardians enjoys galactic box office earnings for second week in row Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 trounced the competition for the second straight weekend. – AFP From the NBA to Call Of Duty Ronan Keating comes to KL in August

18 FOOD theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 A taste of Borneo I N the next few weeks, East Malaysians will welcome some of the biggest celebrations on the island. For those in Sabah and Labuan, Tadau Kaamatan is celebrated annually on the 30th and 31st of May, while the Dayaks in Sarawak celebrate Hari Gawai on the 1st and 2nd of June. While both are used to mark harvest festivals, they are distinctively different in tradition and rituals. Tadau Kaamatan honours the bonds between the creator and creations, told through the legend of a fair maiden named Huminodun who sacrificed herself by transforming her body into lush food and crops that saved humankind. Hari Gawai on the other hand, focuses on making offerings and rituals that represent the people’s gratitude for the bountiful harvest, celebrating people and spirits, and other representations of nature. For Tadau Kaamatan and Hari Gawai which celebrates a good harvest, food is one of the most anticipated aspects of the celebration. This holiday, many of us look forward to gathering with family and friends and enjoying many good foods together. Did you know that deprivation of favourite holiday-only treats can lead to binge eating, resulting in accidental weight gain, stress, and anxiety? This is where practicing mindful snacking that calls for eating with intention and attention, focusing on the present moment, and savouring how the food tastes can help you beat overeating. Here are five unique Sabah and Sarawak treats that are absolute must-try and how you can weave in mindful snacking habits while enjoying them: Kuih Sarang Semut or Kuih Jala Sarang Semut, which translates to “ant’s nest”, from Sarawak is similar to Kuih Karas in Peninsula Malaysia, made by frying long thin strings of glutinous rice flour, tapioca flour, and sugar mixture. The soft and slightly chewy snack – also known as Kuih Jala – is very much enjoyed by children and adults alike for its intriguing taste. We recommend you take a few moments to bite, chew and savour the unique crunchy texture of Kuih Sarang Semut that guarantees a more satisfying snacking experience. Penganan Penganan from Sarawak is a traditional treat that is made by frying a mixture of rice flour, sugar, and coconut milk. This mini cake has a sweet and slightly salty taste, with a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior – perfect to jog your taste buds, hot or warm. Because it is a fried dish, practice moderation and portion control by savouring one piece at a time. Celebrate the harvest festival together with our East Malaysian brothers and sisters with the following snacks. oHere are five East Malaysian treats to sink your teeth into this Kaamatan and Gawai season Kuih Sarang Semut. – SENIA RANIAH Penganan. – CHE NOM Hinompuka. – DEBBIE DEBRA D Tebaloi. – TEBALOI MUKAH SARAWAK Bambangan. – ASTCATALIEYA Hinompuka (Steamed Glutinous Rice Cake) Hinompuka is a delicious Kadazan delicacy presented as a sticky rice cake wrapped in banana leaves. It is sweet and creamy with a chewy texture. Some recipes use coconut milk to add a rich creamy taste, while some use palm sugar for a sweet kick. Its unique flavour also comes from adding pandan extract, banana or grated yam to the mixture, making it an excellent dessert or snack choice for those who prefer subtler flavours. In addition to exercising portion control, elevate your senses by removing distractions when eating and slowing down your eating pace. Before reaching out for another hinompuka, check in with yourself to determine if you’re satisfied with the portion you just had. Tebaloi Tebaloi or sago biscuits are a traditional food of the Melanau community, but are also in high demand from all over Borneo. Made from sago flour, coconut, sugar and eggs, tebaloi is available in a variety of interesting flavours and colours. Enjoy your pieces of tebaloi in modest portions while appreciating the unique texture, colour and taste resulting from the firewood grill to enhance your gastronomic experience. Bambangan While often confused with mango, this Borneo speciality fruit has a thick brown skin and a distinct fragrance. It can be eaten ripe or harvested raw to be pickled with salt, grated bambangan seed, and snips of chilli to make dishes like Hinava Ginapan for Tadau Kaamatan. On its own, bambangan has a sour, tangy, and unique flavour, akin to mango or jackfruit. Whether you’re enjoying it raw, cooked or pickled, give each bite your full attention and enjoy the snacking moment longer. Indulging in these mouthwatering snacks during Kaamatan and Gawai is a wonderful way to experience the rich cultural heritage of these festivals while satisfying your craving for something delicious. Because there is still much to taste and enjoy together, remember to be mindful of your snacking intentions – portion out your snack before eating and try to reduce or avoid distractions to help you truly enjoy your snacking experience. This can be practised by anyone, anywhere, and anytime. Starting small during these festivities not only allows you to enjoy these treats to the fullest but also sets you on the path toward a better lifestyle. According to a report on global snacking habits from Mondel z International, 78% of people today are more likely to take their time to savour indulgent snacks, and it’s also uplifting with 61% saying they take the time to portion their food before eating. Are you one of them too? You can learn more about mindful snacking habits and benefits by visiting snackmindful.com.

19 FOOD theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 A new range of Glencadam Single Malt Whiskies has arrived in Malaysia, and is currently available in specialist retail outlets and selected bars. Local media were also given the opportunity to sample a selection of these labels during a recent whiskytasting session organised by Single Malt Sdn. Bhd. Under the guidance of Glencadam’s Master Blender Iain Forteath, we sampled four of the distillery’s offerings – the multiaward-winning Glencadam 10 Year Old and 15 Year Old single malts, Glencadam Origin 1825 and Glencadam Reserve Andalucia. According to Forteath, these whiskies were matured in bourbon casks brought in from the United States, which he explained would result in “a more fruity taste”. The tasting session began with the Glencadam Origin 1825, which did indeed have rich, fruity notes, but also a hint of pepper. It also had a pleasing caramel scent, and ended up being our favourite by the end of the day. Next, we tried the Glencadam 10 Year Old, which was described as the best starting point for those looking to experience Glencadam’s whiskies. We enjoyed its complex flavours, and felt that its taste leaned more towards vanilla, rather than fruit. This was followed by the Glencadam Reserve Andalucia, which in our opinion had the sweetest scent, and was the most fruity-flavoured of the selections. We could really taste the cherry notes in this one. Finally, we tried the Glencadam 15 Year Old, which had an almost negligible fruity scent, but more than made up for it with its rich and complex taste. Aside from these, the other single malt Scotch whiskies in the range are the prestigious Glencadam 25 Year Old, Glencadam 13 Year Old and Glencadam American Oak Reserve. Shareen Yew, the founder and director of Single Malt Sdn Bhd, said about the range: “We are excited to bring Glencadam to the Malaysian market, whose appetite for value and qualitty single malt whiskies continued to rise. “The range of Glencadam whiskies available here reflect that demand, starting from the accessible and pleasing for whisky fans, to the mature and premium single malts for the discerning drinker.” During the tasting, Master Blender Forteath detailed the history of the Glencadam distillery, which first opened in 1824 in the city of Brechin in northeast Scotland. He said: “We take great pride in doing things the traditional way since our founding, and we’re confident that whisky fans here in Malaysia will appreciate our complex, sweet and fruity character that spans across the Glencadam range. To purchase Glencadam’s latest range of whiskies, visit www.singleandavailable.com.my. New range of Glencadam whiskies arrives Part of the recently arrived Glencadam whisky range. 1 Pineapple (Use ½ cup fresh pineapple, cubed 1cm x 1 cm) 1 cauliflower - florets only, remove stems. This should total 3 cups 1 tomato, small dice ie cut into cubes of 6mm x 6mm 1 long red chilli, finely sliced 1 shallot, finely sliced 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger 3 tablespoons coriander leaves, minced 2 tablespoons cashew nuts ¼ cup raisins 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon soy sauce (to taste) 1 teaspoon curry powder Juice of 2 calamansi limes Freshly ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon Pink Himalayan Salt 0 Method: For cauliflower rice: Cut cauliflower into quarters. Remove the stems and keep the florets only. Process the florets in a food processor until you obtain the consistency of the rice. Cut pineapple into half lengthwise. Use a knife to cut along the rim and hollow out each half with a spoon to create two pineapple boats. Cut the pineapple into 1 cm cubes and set aside. Mix cauliflower with all the ingredients in a big mixing bowl and serve in pineapple boats. Singapore Chilli “Crab” (raw vegan) 0 Ingredients: 1 head cauliflower (florets only, frozen overnight, thawed) 2 tablespoons coriander leaves, finely chopped For chilli crab sauce: 1/4 onion, chopped finely 3 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp taucu 3 tbsp vegan sambal 1/4 cup tomato ketchup Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste 1 tablespoon Organicule baobab powder 1/4 teaspoon of coconut sugar 0 Method: 1. Place all ingredients for the sauce in the blender and blend till smooth. 2. Pour over cauliflower florets. Dehydrate in a food dehydrator at 45 Celsius for 2-3 hours. CAULIFLOWER is high in fibre, which is good for the digestive tract, vitamin B, and folate. Cauliflower contains antioxidants that are said to reduce the risk of colon cancer. “Cauliflower is such a versatile ingredient for raw vegan food. It’s perfect to make “rice” and curries, and it’s also a great meat substitute. It’s an excellent source of fiber as it’s a cruciferous vegetable,” said Raw Vegan celebrity chef Boey Yin Yin, who has doing vegan cooking since 2016. The certified raw food teacher has authored ebooks, a bilingual print book Guilt-Free Desserts, online courses like Mouthwatering Korean Food, Master the Art of Raw Vegan Japanese Cuisine, and is a TED X speaker. Aloo Gobi (Raw Vegan) 0Ingredients: For vegetables: 1 cup sweet potato, cubed 1 ½ cup cauliflower florets 12 cherry tomatoes, halved 1 green chilli, sliced For Sauce: 2 tablespoons coriander seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1/4 cup filtered water 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon miso paste 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 clove garlic 1 teaspoon chilli flakes 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted For garnish: 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves 0Method 1. Mill coriander and cumin seeds into powder 2. Place all ingredients for sauce except coconut oil into a blender and blend till smooth. Add coconut oil and blend for 3 seconds to combine. 3. Place vegetables in a mixing bowl, pour sauce and toss till evenly coated. 4. Garnish with coriander Cauliflower and Coconut Serunding (raw vegan) 0 Ingredients: For Serunding sauce: 1 tablespoon coriander seeds 2 teaspoons fennel seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 8 kaffir lime leaves, sliced 3 lemongrass stalks, sliced 1 tablespoon palm sugar The flesh of 3 tamarind pods soaked in ½ cup filtered water 2 dried red chillies, soaked and sliced 2-inch galangal, sliced 2-inch ginger root sliced 2-inch turmeric root, sliced 1 turmeric leaf, chiffonade 1 tablespoon Marylebone coconut oil spread ½ cup Snappea pea milk (can sub with coconut milk) For meat substitutes: Half a small cauliflower, processed into rice-like bits in a food processor 1 cup desiccated coconut For veggies: Japanese cucumber strips Pea shoots 0 Method: 1. Place all ingredients for the sauce in a blender and blend till smooth. 2. Place cauliflower bits and desiccated coconut into a large mixing bowl. Pour sauce onto cauliflower. 3. Mix till well-coated. Place on a lined dehydrator tray and dehydrate at 45 C for 4 hours or until dry. Serve with cucumber strips and pea shoots. Pineapple Fried Rice (raw vegan) 0 Ingredients: Chef Yin’s aloo gobi is mouth-watering. Easy-to-do and healthy vegan dish, try Cauliflower and coconut serunding. Pineapple Fried Rice looks delicious. Raw Chef Yin’s Singapore Chilli “Crab” is tempting. █ BYS. TAMARAI CHELVI Culinary fun with cauliflower oCruciferous vegetable - Cauliflower is a versatile vegetable and a great ingredients to make delicious vegans and vegetarian meals

20 FEATURE theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Year of the Spider-Men AS many Spider-Man films as there are and will be – such as Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse – the games based on the wall-crawler are far more greater in number and variety. For instance, its hard to imagine these games without interative webswinging, but back in the ‘90s, SpiderMan games were side-scrolling beatem ups. With Insomniac Games’ Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 being expected to make landfall sometime this year – later, rather than sooner – let’s take a look at some of the best Spider-Man games that have come out over the decades. Spider-Man: Edge of Time A sequel to Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions (listed below), Edge of Time is a bit of step-down; it features only two playable Spider-Men in a gameloop that is neither imaginative or fun. The high point of Edge of Time is actually the story, and how it uses the original Spider-Man, Peter Parker, and Spider-Man 2099 a.k.a. Miguel O’Hara, whether in the narrative or the duo playing off each other. Ultimate Spider-Man Unique among games based on Spider-Man, Ultimate Spider-Man is a cel-shaded game. Somewhat based on the original series written by famed comic book writer Brian Michael Bendis, Ultimate Spider-Man tells a slightly different story of Spider-Man and Venom, and players are able to control both characters in their individual storylines that run parallel to each other. Gameplay between both also varies. For example, Venom requires sustenance in the game. In other words, players will need to bring Venom heads to devour. Don’t let the cel-shaded animation fool you; Ultimate Spider-Man is a dark game. Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions For anyone that enjoyed 2018’s Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, give Shattered Dimensions a try. Available on a wide range of platforms, Shattered Dimensions features four different versions of Spider-Man: Ultimate Spider-Man, Amazing Spider-Man, Spider-Man Noir and Spider-Man 2099. Instead of being skins or costumes, these Spider-Men play Anti-Venom made its videogame debut in Edge of Time. – ACTIVISION oSpider-Man games represent some of the best superhero games ever developed █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Despite being marketed towards children, Ultimate Spider-Man was rather dark. – ACTIVISION Shattered Dimensions features memorable boss fights, such as this one with Deadpool. – ACTIVISION Web of Shadows’ climax is wild. – ACTIVISION Marvel’s Spider-Man has flaws, but they’re outshadowed by everything else that makes it great. – SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAIN MENT different roles in the game’s story that spans different corners of the Marvel multiverse. As each have different gameplay styles, they also have to face off against a multitude of iconic SpiderMan and Marvel supervillains, from Kraven the Hunter, Juggernaut to Deadpool. Spider-Man: Web of Shadows Ever wondered what Wolverine would look like if he was infected by the Venom symbiote? Well, then this is the game to check out. Essentially a Spider-Man vs Venom story, Web of Shadows has Venom infecting the entirety of New York with symbiotes, which transforms civilians into the blackblobbed monsters and it even infects superheroes and supervillains. The game also features diverging narratives through a morality system that is affected by the choices players make as Spider-Man. Depending on what the player chooses to do, the ending of the game changes. Spider-Man 2 Based on Sam Raimi’s beloved Spider-Man 2 film, this game is easily the best Spider-Man game based on a Spider-Man film. The game more or less follows the original story, but the big reason it became a hit among gamers when it was released in 2004, was due to it’s web-swinging mechanic. Previous Spider-Man games never managed to pull off the web-swinging and some avoided it like a plague. The game also has the original cast reprise their roles by lending voice acting. Marvel’s Spider-Man The gold standard for Spider-Man games, Marvel’s Spider-Man was released back in 2018 exclusively for the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. Combining revolutionary webswinging mechanics and a robust combat system that tickled the taste buds of casual and hardcore gamers alike, along with a great story that perfectly weaved in Miles Morales, the game was an instant hit and made gangbuster sales. The upcoming Marvel’s SpiderMan 2 by Insomniac will pick up where this game and Marvel’s SpiderMan: Miles Morales left off; Peter and Miles working together to fight crime, with Harry Osborn – infected by the symbiote Venom – being released from containment.

21 * SPORTS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 NOVAK DJOKOVIC has hit out at the BBC’s coverage of him refusing the Covid vaccine and being denied entry to the Australian and US Opens. The 22-time Grand Slam champion was detained by the Australian Border Force in late 2021 and held for over a week before being deported. Djokovic then gave an interview to the BBC where he stated that he would rather miss out on future Majors than be forced to get vaccinated, though recently claimed that the broadcaster “eliminated many sentences” from their chat as he slammed their coverage of the situation. Speaking to Italian outlet Corriere della Sera during the Italian Open, Djokovic reflected: “I suffered everything on my skin. “Many people have appreciated that I have remained consistent… 95% of what has been written and said on TV about me in the last three years is totally false.” The 35-year-old was specifically asked about his nickname “Novax” to which he reiterated that he is not against vaccinations. “I am not no-vax and I have never said in my life that I am,” he added. “I’m not even pro-vax. I am pro-choice: I defend freedom of choice. “It is a fundamental human right to be free to decide what things to inject into one’s body and what not. “I explained it once to the BBC, on my return from Australia, but they eliminated many sentences, the ones that weren’t convenient. So I never spoke of this story again.” He further detailed the experience of being held in Australia alongside a young Syrian who he hopes to reconnect with at this year’s US Open – which he is now permitted to attend. “A prison,” Djokovic recalled. “I couldn’t open the window. “I stayed less than a week, but I found young people, war refugees, who had been there for a very long time. “My case has served to shed light on them, almost all of them have been freed, and this consoles me. A young Syrian had been there for nine years. “Now he’s in America, when I go back this summer I want to find him again and invite him to see me at the US Open; I also feel connected with him.” Djokovic believes that a “false label” was put on him as he continued to slate the coverage given to him. “I had Covid and I was cured,” he said of his time before entering Australia in 2021. “I complied with all the rules and did not endanger anyone. Yet once there I became a political case, one that endangered the world. “They put the no-vax label on me, a completely false thing, which still gives me a stomach ache.” – Express Newspapers DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO. PA-28NCC-19-03/2023 Dalam perkara Seksyen 465(1) (e) dan Seksyen 466 (1) (a) Akta SyarikatSyarikat 2016 Dan Dalam Perkara Famous Delicacies Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 199601042214 (414567-D) Dan Dalam Perkara Kaedah-Kaedah (Penggulungan) Syarikat-Syarikat 1972 ANTARA Special Coral Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 911874-U) PEMPETISYEN DAN Famous Delicacies Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat : 199601042214 (414567-D)) RESPONDEN PENGIKLANAN PETISYEN Notis kini diberi bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk penggulungan syarikat Famous Delicacies Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 199601042214 (414567-D) oleh Mahkamah Tinggi telah dikemukakan pada 14/2/2023 oleh Special Coral Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 911874-U) yang beralamat di 1F-78 Queensbay Mall, 100 Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang dan bahawa Petisyen tersebut telah diarah untuk didengar dihadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang di Pulau Pinang pada 9.00 pagi, pada 31 Julai 2023 dan sesiapa pemiutang atau penyumbang kepada syarikat tersebut yang berminat untuk menyokong atau membangkang terhadap mana-mana Perintah yang dibuat di atas Petisyen tersebut boleh menghadiri pada masa Pendengaran dengan sendiri atau melalui Peguamcaranya untuk tujuan ini; dan sesalinan Petisyen akan diberi kepada sesiapa Pemiutang atau Penyumbang kepada Syarikat tersebut yang memohon kepada penandatangan seperti dibawah dengan bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat Pempetisyen adalah di 1F-78 Queensbay Mall, 100 Persiaran Bayan Indah, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. Peguamcara bagi Pempetisyen adalah Tetuan San Law Chambers yang mana alamat untuk penyampaiannya adalah di Unit 6.2, Tingkat 6, Wisma Leader, No. 8, Jalan Larut, 10050 Pulau Pinang. Ditandatangani ………………………… Peguamcara untuk Pempetisyen Nota: Sesiapa yang ingin menghadiri pada pendengaran Petisyen tersebut mestilah menyampaikan ke atas atau kirim melalui pos kepada peguamcara yang dinamakan diatas satu notis bertulis akan tujuan untuk berbuat demikian. Notis ini mesti menyatakan nama dan alamat orang itu atau, jikalau sebuah firma, nama dan alamat firma, atau peguamcara mereka (jika ada) dan mesti disampaikan atau jika dikirim melalui pos hendaklah dalam masa yang memadai sampai kepada yang dinamakan di atas tidak lewat daripada pukul 12 tengahari pada 28/7/2023 (hari sebelum hari ditetapkan untuk pendengaran Petisyen). (Ruj. : DLMS/DL/797/20/Awin)/Rse. IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR IN THE STATE OF WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO.: WA28NCC-176-02/2023 In the Matter of Section 465(1)(e) and (h) and Section 466(1)(a) of the Companies Act 2016 AND In the Matter of Jiwa Rakyat Sdn. Bhd. (Registration No. 200101011076 (546832-M)) AND In the Matter of the Companies (WindingUp) Rules 1972 BETWEEN R&A TRADING (K.L.) SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO.: 197501003674 (25481-M)) … PETITIONER AND JIWA RAKYAT SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO.: 200101011076 (546832-M)) … 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 22nd day of February 2023, presented by R&A TRADING (K.L.) SDN. BHD. (Registration No. 197501003674 (25481-M)), the above said Petitioning Company and that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at the High Court of Malaya at Kuala Lumpur at Wilayah Persekutuan, on the 27th day of September 2023 at 9.30 o’ clock in the forenoon; and any creditor or contributory of the said Company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at 568-3-101, 3rd Floor, Kompleks Mutiara, 3 ½ Mile, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah (Jalan Ipoh), 51200 Kuala Lumpur. The Petitioner’s solicitors are Messrs. Atma Singh Veriah & Co. of No. 54, Jalan SS21/1, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Signed, Messrs. Atma Singh Veriah & Co. Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE – Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the above-named Solicitors for the Petitioner notice in writing of his intention to do so. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above named not later than twelve o’ clock noon on 26th day of September 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the Petition). Reference:ASV/kas/7125/2022 Telephone:03-7726 3464 E-Mail:[email protected] IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) PETITION NO: WA-28NCC-911-11/2022 In the matter of Section 465 (1)(h) of the Companies Act 2016; And In the matter of LINGKARAN EW SDN. BHD. [Registration No. 202001041646 (1397967-W)] BETWEEN 1. TAN SWEE LEONG (NRIC NO: 590521-10-6671) 2. GO YEW KIAT (NRIC NO: 800911-14-6189) ...PETITIONERS AND 1. WONG JIAN ON (NRIC NO: 660601-10-6315) 2. CHEAH LEAN MING (NRIC NO: 630113-08-5415) 3. LINGKARAN EW SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO: 202001041646 (1397967-W)) ...RESPONDENTS ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for winding-up of the abovenamed company by the High Court was, on the 15th day of November, 2022, presented by TAN SWEE LEONG and GO YEW KIAT having its registered address at No. 22-2, Jalan 1/64, Off Jalan Kolam Air/ Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur. And that the said petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at Kuala Lumpur at 9:00 o’clock in the forenoon, on the 4th day of July 2023; and any creditor or contributory of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s registered address is at No. 22-2, Jalan 1/64, Off Jalan Kolam Air/ Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur. The Petitioner’s solicitors is TIONG AND ASSOCIATES, A4-2-3A, Solaris Dutamas, No. 1, Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. .....................signed...................... TIONG AND ASSOCIATES NOTE: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed solicitors, 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 solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not latter than twelve o’clock noon of the 3th day of July 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the Petition). This ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION is filed by TIONG AND ASSOCIATES, A4-2- 3A, Solaris Dutamas, 1 Jalan Dutamas 1, 50480 Kuala Lumpur for the petitioners abovenamed whose registered address is at No. 22-2, Jalan 1/64, Off Jalan Kolam Air/ Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, Kuala Lumpur Tel. 03- 6412 2740 Fax. 03- 6412 2739 Email. [email protected] Ref. CT/LIT/20221248 322 Notices 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI SELAYANG DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO.: BD-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 ANTARA TENAGA NASIONAL BERHAD [No. Syarikat : 199001009294 (200866-W)] …PLAINTIF DAN ZAHARI BIN AHMAD [NO.K. P.: 610731-10-5059 (6238079)] …DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI-BENTUK IKLAN Kepada, ZAHARI BIN AHMAD [NO.K. P.: 610731-10-5059 (6238079)] Lot 3742, Jalan Murai Batu 9, Kebun Bharu 42500 Telok Panglima Garang Selangor Darul Ehsan. Dan/atau ZAHARI BIN AHMAD [NO.K. P.: 610731-10-5059 (6238079)] 67 (Gerai MPS) Jalan Rawang 48000 Rawang Selangor Darul Ehsan Dalam perkara Writ yang dikeluarkan pada 2 haribulan Mac 2023. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan Writ telah dikeluarkan terhadap Defendan dalam Mahkamah Majistret di Selayang dalam Guaman No. BD-A72NCVC-58-03/2023 oleh Tenaga Nasional Berhad [No. Syarikat: 199001009294] (200866-W)] di mana tuntutan Plaintif ialah untuk jumlah RM10,845.18, faedah ke atas jumlah RM10,845.18 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh pemfailan saman sehingga tarikh penghakiman, faedah ke atas jumlah RM10,845.18 pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh penghakiman sehingga tarikh penyelesaian penuh dan kos dan adalah diperintahkan bahawa sesalinan Writ bertarikh 2/3/2023 dan Penyata Tuntutan bertarikh 2/3/2023 disampaikan kepada kamu melalui Penyampaian Ganti iaitu dengan menampalkan sesalinan Writ dan Penyata Tuntutan tersebut di Papan Notis Mahkamah Selayang, ditinggalkan di alamat pertama Defendan di Lot 3742, Jalan Murai, Batu 9, Kebun Bharu, 42500 Telok Panglima Garang, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat pertama Defendan”) dan di alamat kedua Defendan di 67 (Gerai MPS), Jalan Rawang, 48000 Rawang, Selangor Darul Ehsan (selepas ini “alamat kedua Defendan”) dan mengiklankannya sekali (1) dalam surat khabar tempatan ‘The Sun’ dan saya percaya bahawa penyampaian itu menjadi penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup ke atas Defendan tersebut empatbelas (14) hari selepas dari tarikh pengiklanan atau penampalan tersebut. Sekiranya kamu berhajat untuk membuat pembelaan terhadap tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah diwakili oleh Peguambela kamu di hadapan Mahkamah Majistret Selayang pada 15/6/2023 (secara E-Review), jam 9.00 pagi. Sekiranya kamu gagal berbuat demikian maka Penghakiman Ingkar boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 24 haribulan Mei 2023 …..….………tt…….…….. Tetuan Sandosh Anandan Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Notis Penyampaian Ganti Bentuk Iklan ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Sandosh Anandan, Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di Unit A502, Blok A, Kelana Square, No. 17, Jalan SS7/26, Kelana Jaya, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel: 03-78065819 / 03-7804607 Fax: 03-78807409 (Ruj: SA/L/TNB/ZAHARI/1872/2023/SA) 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUTARY WINDING UP OF LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (Section 50(4)(a) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012) Notice is hereby given that UNIQUE LAUNDRY MANAGEMENT & SERVICES PLT (LLP No. LLP0011907- LGN) will be making an application to the Registrar of Limited Liability Partnerships for a declaration of dissolution pursuant to section 50(2) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 within seven (7) days after the publication of this notice. Any partner or creditor of the LLP desiring to object to the application may do so in writing to the Companies Commission of Malaysia within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice. Pawnbrokers’ forfeited pledges under Section 23 of the Pawnbrokers’ Act 1972 Pawnbrokers’ (Control and Licensing) Regulations 2004 The above will be sold by public auction during the first week of June 2023 at No. 71, Bishop Street, Penang for articles pawned in August 2022 and earlier commencing from the date and time stated below:- Date Time 06.06.2023 9:00 A.M (Tuesday) Note: Interested bidders are to register with the licensed auctioneer 7 working days before the auction date. *Term and conditions apply. A.Dennys & Co Sdn Bhd Licensed Auctioneers 71, Lebuh Bishop 10200 Penang Tel No’s: 04-2611551/2 DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-1748-02/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN IHSAN RAKYAT (No Syarikat.: 201201017719 [1003231-A]) … PLAINTIF DAN NURAINI BINTI MAT DOA (No. K/P: 830101-08-7110) … DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) NURAINI BINTI MAT DOA SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No. WAA72M-1748-02/2023 oleh Yayasan Ihsan Rakyat (“Plaintif”) yang beralamat di di Tingkat 20, Menara Teo Chew, No. 1, Jalan Lumut, 50400 Kuala Lumpur di mana Plaintif menuntut terhadap kamu antara lain untuk membayar semula pinjaman, faedah dan kos. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 3.02.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan pada Papan Notis Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur dan mengiklankan sekali di suatu penerbitan akhbar ‘The Sun’ dan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan sedemikian akan disifatkan sebagai penyerahan lengkap dan sempurna terhadap kamu dalam masa empat belas (14) hari selepas tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan yang terakhir tersebut. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguamcara kamu. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 24 haribulan Mei, 2023 …………t.t………… TETUAN GM TAN & COMPANY Peguamcara Plaintif NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) ini telah difailkan oleh Tetuan GM Tan & Company,peguamcara pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di C-10-28, Block C, Lobby 2, Centum Oasis Corporate Park, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/2, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : +603 2714 5456 E-mel :[email protected] Faks No.: +603 2714 5457 Ruj Kami:GMT/YIR(RCE)/00788/2023 322 Notices Joker not smiling Djokovic fumes at ‘Novax’ nickname and takes swipe at BBC THE Formula One grid could look very different in 2024 if Lewis Hamilton chooses to leave Mercedes in order to join Ferrari, with the Scuderia reportedly exploring the idea of making a move for the 38-year-old before the end of this year. Hamilton, who will become a free agent before the start of next season as things stand, is widely expected to agree a new deal with the Silver Arrows but is yet to sign on the dotted line after weeks of negotiations behind closed doors. Ferrari are thought to be monitoring the situation closely and have even drawn up plans to offer Hamilton a blockbuster £40 million (RM216m) deal in advance of next year, according to the Daily Mail. This would bring an end to the decadelong partnership between Hamilton and Mercedes, who would then be forced to find a suitable replacement for the Brit in time for the start of the 2024 campaign. Hamilton would reportedly be racing alongside Charles Leclerc if he joins Ferrari, with the Italian outfit prepared to offload Carlos Sainz in order to make room for the current Mercedes star to join their ranks. The iconic nature of the team is said to appeal to Hamilton, although he is yet to make a firm decision over whether or not to jump ship next year in search of a record-breaking eighth world title. It remains to be seen who Mercedes would target to succeed Hamilton from 2024 onwards but it would not be a surprise to see them pursue a move for Lando Norris despite him being under contract at McLaren until the end of 2025. This would see Mercedes needing to buy Norris out of his existing deal, which could prove challenging given the absence of a break clause, but there is every chance that McLaren’s recent struggles could tempt him into pushing for a change of scenery if the opportunity arises. A move to Mercedes for Norris would then leave McLaren in need of another driver, which they could get in the form of Sainz if he is pushed out of Ferrari to make way for Hamilton. It remains to be seen how much collateral damage would be done to the rest of the grid if Hamilton joins Ferrari over the coming months, though, with the move set to spark a chain reaction if it goes ahead as other seats become available throughout the F1 paddock. – Express Newspapers Furor in the paddock as Ferrari eye Hamilton Novak Djokovic. – REUTERSPIX

22 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 SPORTS RORY MCILROY believes having lower expectations paid dividends as he battled to a top-10 finish in the US PGA Championship. McIlroy had cut a subdued figure before play got under way at Oak Hill, a legacy of his dispiriting missed cut in the Masters as his latest attempt to complete a career grand slam ended prematurely. The 34-year-old was also feeling under the weather and struggling with his long game, but followed an opening 71 with three straight 69s to finish two under par, seven shots behind winner Brooks Koepka. “I’ll look back on this week as proud of how I hung in there and I guess (proud of) my attitude and sticking to it, not having my best stuff,” McIlroy said. “I guess I just came in here trying to play a golf tournament, honestly not thinking about getting myself in contention. I honestly didn’t feel like I had a chance of winning this week. “I feel sort of close but also so far away at the same time. It’s hard to explain. I feel like sometimes it was the worst I could have played, but then at the same time it’s like the best I could have done. “It’s weird. It just doesn’t feel quite where it needs to be and I just need to go back home and work on some stuff. I guess just try to figure it out.” Asked if having lower expectations had worked in his favour, McIlroy added: “Yeah, 100%. “I was more accepting of things out there and I think it’s hard. The previous major championship at Augusta, all I think about is winning, winning, winning, to try to win that green jacket. “I then don’t really think about just playing a tournament and the cadence that goes along with getting into rounds and whatever. “I go to the second tee on Friday afternoon and I see I’m already 10 back of Brooks or whatever. So then I’m thinking, ‘oh, geez, I have no chance of winning’, and things sort of crumble. “It’s just like being a bit mentally fragile because you’re so focused on the one thing you’re trying to do when, in essence, you just need to play a golf tournament and see where the chips fall at the end of the week.” – The Independent READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME Golf’s ‘big, bad, tough guy’ After claiming his fifth major, is Koepka this generation’s greatest golfer? “I’M BACK.” Those two words might send shivers around the golf world as Brooks Koepka savoured a fifth, legacy-defining major championship. Those words are forever synonymous with another dominant, transcending athlete: Michael Jordan. Koepka is not quite in that realm, but he is an all-time great now. This cold-blooded killer on the golf course has surely eclipsed his rivals as the defining player of this generation. Just like Jordan, when others quiver as the finish line nears, Koepka simply elevates his game, relishing the moment and the pressure. The American’s fierce stare each time he approaches his ball on a major Sunday, strolling with a swagger, muscles rippling. Rory McIlroy, the darling of the sport and heir to Tiger Woods for so long, continues to be tormented by his nine-year major drought. After melting at Augusta this year, coughing up a two-stroke lead to the relentless Jon Rahm, Koepka refused to allow himself to unravel at the Oak Hill Country Club. Now the first player to win a major championship while signed up to LIV Golf, Koepka’s legacy is starting to emerge. “Yeah, I definitely think it helps LIV,” he admitted when quizzed on the significance of his victory. “But I’m more interested in my own self right now. “It’s a huge thing for LIV, but at the same time, I’m out here competing as an individual at the PGA Championship. I’m just happy to take this home for the third time.” The face of golf might still be McIlroy, during Woods’s hiatus, but the defining player over the last 10 to 15 years? Many have enjoyed dominant runs, but none quite so ruthless as a healthy Koepka, none quite as inevitable when he smoothly slices through the competition to reach the summit and then sprints to victory like Mark Cavendish at the Tour. Like the aforementioned Jordan, Koepka shares that intangible quality that made Woods so captivating too. Now, Koepka has that intimidating edge again to stand, for the time being, above McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, Rahm and Scheffler. To illustrate Koepka’s greatness, he joins an exclusive club of seven players since 1950 who have won five or more men’s majors before 34 years of age alongside Woods, Jack Nicklaus, Seve Ballesteros, Tom Watson, Gary Player and Arnold Palmer. Not bad company to be in. This major comes off the back of a vulnerable period in his career, visible thanks to the intimate nature of the Full Swing documentary on Netflix. Crushing injuries and the almost farcical beef between himself and Bryson DeChambeau, Koepka’s softer side has allowed for greater recognition and respect. “I know I seem like this big, bad, tough guy on the golf course that doesn’t smile, doesn’t do anything, but if you catch me off the golf course, I’ll let you know what’s going on,” he said. “Like, I’m happy they got that side; right? That’s truly me, and some people might hate it, some people might dog it, but at the end of the day, it’s just me.” Tied with Ballesteros on five, Phil Mickelson on six is next. This is surely now the Koepka era, McIlroy and the chasing pack must now respond. – The Independent McIlroy proud of gritty effort at PGA Championship JUVENTUS lost 4-1 at Empoli yesterday hours after their points reduction for illicit transfer activity was revised in a blow to their Champions League hopes. The Turin giants are a point below sixth-placed Roma in the Europa League Conference qualification spot. Earlier, the Italian Football Federation’s (FIGC) appeals court announced Juve’s 10-point deduction. The decision came following a revision of their initial 15-point penalty inflicted on the club over illicit transfer activity. “Finding yourself with 10 points down a quarter of an hour from the match is at least a mitigating factor,” Juve coach Massimiliano Allegri told reporters. “It’s been a very tiring year,” he added. It caps a difficult few days for the two-time European champions as they were knocked out of the Europa League semifinals after defeat at Sevilla last week. With two league games of the season remaining, Juve, on 59 points, can still catch AC Milan, on 64, in the fourth and final Champions League berth, with the teams meeting in Turin on Sunday. In Empoli, the hosts’ 36-year-old striker Francesco Caputo scored either side of Sebastiano Luperto’s 21st-minute strike for the side in 14th place. Italy’s Federico Chiesa claimed an 85th-minute consolation for the visitors who play mid-table Udinese as well as Milan before the end of the campaign. With three minutes of added time played the home side rubbed salt into Juve’s wounds as 22-yearold Roberto Piccoli scored his second goal of the season. The decision by the FIGC and the result at Empoli also mean that Lazio, who replaced Juve in second place, have qualified for the Champions League group stage for the first time since 2020 and only the second time since 2007. Earlier on Monday, at the Stadio Olimpico, Nemanja Matic scored an 83rd-minute equaliser as Roma drew 2-2 with Salernitana. “It’s a joke knowing this with two games to play,” Roma boss Jose Mourinho told reporters. “For us, for everyone, even for Juve.” “It wasn’t easy for them, points won on the pitch which were then taken away two rounds from the end of the season,” he added. – AFP Juventus suffer double whammy █ JACK RATHBORN Spain to investigate Vinicius abuse SPANISH prosecutors have opened an investigation into the racist abuse hurled at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior as Brazil made a formal protest yesterday. The prosecutor’s office in Valencia is investigating a possible hate crime, a judicial source told AFP. Real Madrid said earlier it had filed a complaint “in order that the facts be investigated and those responsible be held accountable”. Brazil formally protested to the Spanish ambassador and will lodge an official complaint with authorities in Madrid. There is growing anger in Brazil, where the lights of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro were turned off for one hour in solidarity with the player. “Black and imposing,” Vinicius tweeted of the darkened statue, saying he was moved and thanked followers for their support. “But I want, above all, to inspire and bring more light to our fight,” he added. … as commentator sparks outrage for criticising striker A La Liga TV commentator has sparked outrage online by claiming Vinicius Jr “is not an angel” and that he “provokes other teams” after the Real Madrid star was sent off for his reaction to being the victim of racist abuse from the stands during a 1-0 defeat to Valencia on Monday. Covering the game for La Liga TV, co-commentator Toni Padilla said that while it’s important to stand against racism, Vinicius should not be free from blame for the sending off as he’s “not a saint” and often provokes both the opposition and their fans. “We should stand against racism always but we should also say that Vini Jr is not an angel, he’s not perfect. Sometimes he provokes the other teams. “Look at Vini Jr (as he walks off the pitch gesturing to the Valencia fans) – you are going to second division. “Every time he’s suffering verbal abuse, we should stand against racism and we should stand with Vini Jr. But also we cannot say he’s a saint.” Padilla’s comments have subsequently sparked outrage online, with journalist Colin Millar tweeting: “Sorry, this is absolutely shocking stuff. Victims of racial abuse are victims of racial abuse. There is no further context required.” Another commenter wrote on Twitter: “Commentators all wrong on this, Vinicius completely the victim. He’s being driven out of Spanish football.” A further comment read: “Your cocommentator STINKS. Imagine trying to justify and make a point about Vinicius being in the wrong. SHORTS Juventus’ Manuel Locatelli (centre) in action with Empoli’s Fabiano Parisi (right) during their Serie A match. – REUTERSPIX

23 * SPORTS theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | MAY 24, 2023 NEWCASTLE boss Eddie Howe has admitted Champions League qualification was not even in his thoughts as he embarked upon the new Premier League campaign. The Magpies secured a top-four finish and a return to the big stage for the first time since the 2002-03 season with a 0-0 draw against Leicester yesterday to complete a remarkable turnaround. They were in severe danger of relegation when Howe took the helm in November 2021 but will now rub shoulders with the continent’s elite next season. A delighted Howe said: “This wasn’t in our sights at that moment. We had escaped relegation impressively, from the position we were in. “We were hopeful of improving and staying away from danger and growing the team to a position where maybe we could compete for Europe in a couple of seasons, so we’ve shot ahead of schedule. “With that comes big challenges for the future, but when you’re in these moments and there’s an opportunity of something like this, you have to take it.” The club’s Saudi-backed owners have ploughed in excess of £250 million (RM1.25b) in the squad since buying out Mike Ashley, but have received an earlier than anticipated return on their investment. Newcastle reached the Carabao Cup final in February only to lose to Manchester United at Wembley, but were not to be denied a place at Europe’s top table. Howe said: “The difficulty is there’s no trophy. It’s an amazing achievement, an amazing thing in terms of where we’ve come from in such a short space of time. “But it feels difficult to celebrate it like you’ve won a league or something like that. It’s right up there, of course it is. It’s an amazing thing at a very special club. Asked how he would celebrate, Howe added with a smile: “I don’t know how I’ll celebrate. I’ll wait and see. I hope it’s not with a tea and a biscuit.” The Foxes remain two points adrift of safety, although victory over West Ham on Saturday coupled with a draw for Everton at home to Bournemouth would keep them up on goal difference. They did not muster a shot until stoppage time but boss Dean Smith was defiant over his safetyfirst approach. Smith said: “I make no apologies for the way we set up today. We had to keep a clean sheet and hope, because we had to make sacrifices with our team today and hope we were still in the game. “It almost worked exactly to plan, but the goalkeeper made a really good save in the 90th minute, which was our only shot, I think. “If it’s too little, too late, who knows? But we’ve taken it to Sunday now.” – The Independent THE END of the 2022/23 season cannot come quickly enough for Chelsea, more so than for any other Premier League club. A pair of transfer windows have yielded a huge turnover in the playing staff and more is to come this summer, while the eventual appointment of Mauricio Pochettino has to bring an end to months of farcical decision-making within the coaching structure. There’s so much to fix that even interim boss Frank Lampard cannot be held hugely accountable for their impending bottomhalf finish – though what is now an 11% win rate, following this 1-0 defeat to re-crowned champions Manchester City, certainly bears plenty of scrutiny in itself. All in all, it’s far worse than one which can be passed off as just a season to forget; lessons have to be learned, errors rectified, the few positives which do exist taken forward as cornerstones for next season and beyond. There aren’t too many of those, but Enzo Fernandez (left) is one. As a £106 million (RM572m) midfielder perhaps declaring him a “positive” is the absolute least Chelsea fans should expect, but since none of the £210 million (RM1.13b) or so spent on Mykhailo Mudryk, Marc Cucurella, Benoit Badiashile, Noni Madueke and David Datro Fofana would even reach that level so far – nor the £10 million (RM54m) loan fee for Joao Felix – then the World Cup-winning No. 5 certainly qualifies as a notable exception. Over the course of Monday’s largely irrelevant occasion – the match reduced to serving as a central focus point for a title celebration after Arsenal’s latest choke – Fernandez was left irked by his teammates’ lack of effort, lack of movement, lack of quality. Fernandez has the capacity to take the ball on the half turn and execute the pass he has already seen; sadly, too many of those playing higher upfield than him either lack the willingness or the ability to make the necessary run on time. That will be one of Pochettino’s big jobs, once he is indeed confirmed as the new Stamford Bridge appointment. Chelsea lack the ideas and patterns of both how to build from deep and how to link up play in the middle and final thirds. Adding in the obvious issues of goalscoring they’ve suffered this term, Enzo Fernandez as the cog to build around makes most sense from both the perspective of a blank tactical canvas, and from trying to get most value out of their biggest investments. Lampard has made the Argentinian midfielder a key component in a failing side; it’ll be up to Pochettino to put him at the heart of a functioning one. – The Independent Magpies flying high Newcastle have ‘shot ahead of schedule’ with top-four finish: Howe Neves admits transfer temptation to realise Euro ambition RUBEN NEVES admits he wants to play in the Champions League and faces a hard decision over his Wolves future. The 26-year-old midfielder is expected to leave Molineux this summer after six years at the club. Neves, who has made 252 appearances and scored 30 goals, was given a standing ovation and left the pitch to embraces from his teammates when he came off late in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Everton. It added to the belief he has played his last game at Molineux and the Portugal international has ambitions. He said: “I want to be here but I never hide that I want to play Champions League football. It’s a hard decision. Me and my family love it here, but in football you have to go for your main goals. “Nothing’s happened yet. If it was my last game here I really enjoyed it and I’m very thankful for the last six seasons.” Wolves were forced to settle for a draw after Yerry Mina’s leveller in the last minute of stoppage time cancelled out Hwang Hee-Chan’s opener. Referee David Coote played nine minutes of added time and Neves questioned him on it. “The only thing I can say is the nine minutes (of stoppage time). I asked the ref why. He said they’ve been asked to play exact times. I don’t know why they haven’t been doing it all season. “If you want to do it, you need to do it all season and not only in the last two games. “We’ve had some games here where they (only) gave four or five minutes. They said we’re the Premier League, not the World Cup. Now they are trying to be the World Cup.” – The Independent Fernandez is Chelsea’s only shining light █ DAMIAN SPELLMAN █ KARL MATCHETT RESULTS & STANDINGS BAYERN MUNICH see West Ham’s England international Declan Rice, 24, as the perfect defensive midfielder for them, but know Arsenal are also trying to sign him. ARSENAL are pursuing Manchester City captain and 32-year-old Germany midfielder Ilkay Gundogan. The 32-year-old is out of contract this summer. MANCHESTER UNITED are in talks to sign Brazil forward Neymar, 31, from Paris StGermain. THE Red Devils are aiming to complete a deal for Napoli’s 26-year-old South Korea defender Kim Min-jae, who is also wanted by PSG. BARCELONA want to sign Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves, 26, from Wolves this summer, but the move depends on whether Spain forward Ansu Fati, 20, leaves Barca. IF Arsenal do not sign West Ham’s Declan Rice, they have lined up Wolves’ Neves, Real Sociedad’s Spain midfielder Martin Zubimendi, 24, and Brighton’s Ecuador midfielder Moises Caicedo, 21, as alternatives. SWITZERLAND midfielder Granit Xhaka, 30, says his Arsenal future will be decided before their final game of the season. The Gunners are in advanced talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a £13m (RM70m) move. AC MILAN have made Arsenal’s American striker Folarin Balogun, 21, their top transfer target after he impressed on loan at Reims this season, but they face competition from RB Leipzig. BRAZIL forward Vinicius Jr, 22, has no plans to leave Real Madrid despite being subjected to more racist abuse from rival fans. ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Newcastle 0 Leicester 0. P W D L F A Pts Man City 36 28 4 4 93 31 88 Arsenal 37 25 6 6 83 43 81 Newcastle 37 19 13 5 67 32 70 Man Utd 36 21 6 9 52 41 69 Liverpool 37 19 9 9 71 43 66 Brighton 36 18 7 11 70 50 61 Aston Villa 37 17 7 13 49 45 58 Tottenham 37 17 6 14 66 62 57 Brentford 37 14 14 9 57 46 56 Fulham 37 15 7 15 54 51 52 Crystal Palace 37 11 11 15 39 48 44 Chelsea 36 11 10 15 36 42 43 Wolves 37 11 8 18 31 53 41 West Ham 37 11 7 19 41 53 40 Bournemouth 37 11 6 20 37 70 39 Nottm Forest 37 9 10 18 37 67 37 Everton 37 7 12 18 33 57 33 Leicester 37 8 7 22 49 67 31 Leeds 37 7 10 20 47 74 31 Southampton 37 6 6 25 32 69 24 SERIE A: Roma 2 (El Shaarawy 47, Matic 83) Salernitana 2 (Candreva 12, Dia 54), Empoli 4 (Caputo 18-pen, 48, Luperto 21, Piccoli 90+2) Juventus 1 (Chiesa 85). P W D L F A Pts Napoli 36 27 5 4 73 25 86 Lazio 36 20 8 8 55 28 68 Inter Milan 36 21 3 12 67 40 66 AC Milan 36 18 10 8 60 42 64 Atalanta 36 18 7 11 59 43 61 Roma 36 17 9 10 47 35 60 Juventus* 36 21 6 9 55 32 59 Monza 36 14 10 12 46 46 52 Bologna 36 13 11 12 48 45 50 Torino 36 13 11 12 38 40 50 Fiorentina 36 13 11 12 48 41 50 Udinese 36 11 13 12 45 44 46 Sassuolo 36 12 8 16 44 56 44 Empoli 36 10 11 15 36 46 42 Salernitana 35 8 15 13 44 57 39 Lecce 36 7 12 17 30 43 33 Spezia 36 6 13 17 30 56 31 Hellas Verona 36 7 9 20 29 55 30 Cremonese 36 4 12 20 32 66 24 Sampdoria 36 3 9 24 22 67 18 *Juventus docked 10 points by the Italian Football Federation CHAMPIONS RELEGATED TOUCHLINES Newcastle players celebrate qualifying for the Champions League after the English Premier League match against Leicester at St James’ Park yesterday. – REUTERSPIX

theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] or download app from the App Store or Google Play TM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my FREE access Interactive WEDNESDAY • MAY 24, 2023 City’s quest for legitimacy is a battle they may never win A GREAT was considering the question of greatness. A manager who, even by his own definition, has done the exceptional, accepted he is deemed unfulfilled. Pep Guardiola has reached the stage where his Premier League titles feel routine. In a way, they are: he has five in six seasons. The abnormal has started to appear normal, the extraordinary ordinary. Perhaps the Manchester City manager wanted a greater recognition of the achievement. Or maybe he was reflecting the wider commentary about his reign. “To be considered one of the greatest in Europe we have to win the Champions League, otherwise people will say our time here is not complete,” he said. It is sufficiently unusual that only two teams have ever previously won five English leagues in six seasons: Liverpool between 1978 and 1984, Manchester United from 1995 to 2001. City have reached points totals neither mustered, but they conquered Europe. The final frontier is also the quest for credit. There is an ongoing battle for a different kind of legitimacy, given the 115 Premier League charges that will be heard, perhaps far into the future. There may be a definitive ruling if some of their funding involved rule-breaking. It may not end the arguments or answer the question if there is an asterisk – or several – attached to this era. City’s place in history is both assured and up for debate. Guardiola has had his travails in Champions League knockout ties but has industrialised the winning of leagues like few others. His 11 in 14 seasons, spread across Spain, Germany and England, speak to the huge talents he has coached, the vast resources he has enjoyed, his considerable prowess on the training ground and his vivid imagination. There were other factors. “To get to where Manchester City are, a lot of things have to align,” noted Frank Lampard, the beaten Chelsea manager on Monday. “They’ve built this over years (with an) incredible vision of the club… they’ve brought in a great coach and so many great players so they are the benchmark.” Perhaps few arrived as great footballers, though. But Gundogan and Kevin De Bruyne, class acts and big-game players, were especially influential in the run-in. The exponential improvement of footballers under Guardiola’s coaching – Stones, Rodri, Nathan Ake and Jack Grealish are all prominent examples this season – can add a dimension. City are not alone in spending heavily but, in Julian Alvarez and Manuel Akanji, they secured twin bargains in 2022. Then there is the Haaland factor. Erling Haaland’s return of over a goal a game has lent the sense of superhuman prowess. His goal tally and his youth have an ominous element, suggesting City’s superiority could extend for years to come. Haaland could entrench dominance, though it is worth noting the year City cruised to the title was actually 2017-18, when they won by 19 points. Arsenal were top for 248 days; for the last few weeks of them, it seemed they were intimidated by the idea of City, dropping points even before they were demolished 4-1 at the Etihad. But when the Gunners’ lead stretched to eight points, there were times when City felt a poor result away from losing touch. But the elastic never snapped. Arsenal took 50 points in the first half of the season; finish off with two more wins and City will have 52 from the second half. Theirs has been an irresistible response which has lent the feeling of inevitability. It has become City’s extra asset, rendering it harder for anyone to depose them. They will start as overwhelming favourites next season, aiming to become the first team to claim four consecutive English league titles. But there is still the Champions League, still more to prove, still more to win. – The Independent █ RICHARD JOLLY Treble on their mind Gundogan urges City to keep standards high as Stones wants to make more history I LKAY GUNDOGAN is determined not to lose momentum as Manchester City aim to close out the season by winning the treble. City claimed the first of the three trophies they are chasing by winning the Premier League title over the weekend. Their sights are now set on adding the FA Cup and Champions League but, before they can switch thoughts fully to their two finals next month, they have to complete the League programme. City, who are unbeaten in 24 games, wrap up their Premier League campaign by travelling to Brighton tomorrow (3am Malaysian time) and Brentford on Sunday and Gundogan is wary of easing up in those matches. The City captain said: “We haven’t lost any games for so many weeks and that’s the standard that we have to set for ourselves. “We do nothing different – we do the same things that we’ve done in the last few weeks and hopefully it can be a really special end to the season. I love the club and being part of this amazing team. “Obviously, we want to finish the season with two more trophies. We have two more big finals, and the last two games of the Premier League season are going to be preparation for that. “We don’t want to drop anything. I would love to lift two more trophies.” Defender Stones, now a five-time Premier League winner, said: “We’re back in training on Tuesday and we’ll go from there. We’ve got to keep the rhythm. “The hunger is there and we know what’s ahead of us now, that we can try and make some more history.” City trailed the Gunners by eight points last month but have surged past their closest rivals on a run of 12 straight wins. Stones said: “I don’t think I had time to doubt what we can do. I think it was just focusing on what was ahead of us, focusing on winning. “We’ve done it so many times now. We just came on this run, and it’s just incredible what kind of team we’ve got. “I’ve been here nearly seven years now and we just keep going from strength to strength with the players that we’ve got, the team that we’ve got and the improvement. “The titles that we’ve won – I think it speaks for itself.” Stones has made a big impression playing in a hybrid defence-midfield role this season. “I absolutely love it,” he said. “It’s something new for me… I don’t know if it’s my best football but I’m absolutely enjoying it.” The ultimate success of City’s season will now be defined by the FA Cup final, in which they face Manchester United on June 3, and the Champions League final against Inter Milan the following week. After a strong run throughout the spring – capped by magnificent performances in crunch games against title rivals Arsenal and then Real Madrid in the Champions League – the focus is strong. Kevin De Bruyne, who like Gundogan is now a five-time Premier League winner, said: “We like to win, and we’re never bored of it. We’ve won a lot in the past but we want to win again and again. “We keep on working. We enjoy the games against Brighton and Brentford and prepare for United and Inter and hopefully we can do something special. “Everybody wants it. We know we need to win two games, but they are hard games, and we need to prepare ourselves the best as possible and hopefully we can win them.” Midfielder Rodri is confident City can achieve their goal. He said: “We know there is a long way to go with two big finals and we have to prepare good. “We can do it. We believe in ourselves. We have been working to arrive in these moments and we are prepared.” – The Independent █ ANDY HAMPSON Man City’s Ilkay Gundogan (centre) lifts the trophy as he celebrates with teammates after winning the English Premier League. – REUTERS