The Sun Daily - 14 April 2023

PETALING JAYA: For most people, Hari Raya is a time to be spent with family and friends. However, firefighters who will be on duty for the upcoming celebrations prioritise their life-saving duties over anything else. Cheras Fire and Rescue station chief Mohd Khairul Azmi Jaafar, who has been in the service for 11 years, said being on duty during Hari Raya is nothing new for the men and women in uniform. “It is part of our training to follow instructions from our superiors, so if we have to work to reassure the public that we are on standby to attend to any emergencies, then that is what we must do. “The probability of emergencies occurring during festive seasons is higher compared with normal days, especially involving road crashes and fires. So, we need to always be alert for any kind of situation. We prioritise life-saving duties over anything else.” Mohd Khairul Azmi said during any festive season, especially Hari Raya, Fire and Rescue headquarters in every state will issue a roster of officers who will be on duty at the stations during the first week of Hari Raya. He said 80% of firefighters will be on standby while the other 20% are allowed to go on leave. He added that each fire station also conducts patrols within their boundary to ensure quick response to any fire or other incidents that requires their help. “Before Hari Raya, we carry out inspections on premises with high footfall, such as supermarkets, shopping centres and houses of worship to ensure the fire safety system installed in the buildings is working properly,” he said. In fulfilling his duties as station chief, Mohd Khairul Azmi said his wife, who is also a firefighter, plays an important role during Hari Raya. “If we will be on duty, we will make advance visits to our (respective) hometowns in Butterworth, Penang and Alor Gajah in Malacca. Although we cannot gather with the rest of the family, we still try to create a warm Hari Raya atmosphere with our colleagues at the station. “The small sacrifice will not be in vain. As a member of an essential service, we prioritise our responsibility of ensuring the community is always safe.” Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant operations director Hafisham Mohd Noor, who has served for 18 years, said his family will only celebrate Hari Raya with their extended family after he completes his shifts. “After performing Hari Raya prayers at the mosque, I will conduct patrols, visit all 37 fire stations in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, deliver kuih raya to on-duty officers, rush to locations of major emergencies, and visit the Ops Raya control centre. “As officers who will be on duty during Hari Raya, we would only be granted our Hari Raya leave after the third day.” Norazizah Nordin, a firefighter at the Jalan Hang Tuah station in Kuala Lumpur, has never celebrated Hari Raya with her family since joining the service four years ago. “Since I am fairly new and my hometown is in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, I am always on duty during this time of the year. So, I would usually take a much longer break on the second or third week after Hari Raya.” Norazizah said the most common emergencies during Hari Raya were house fires. “Most houses around Kuala Lumpur and Selangor are left unattended during Hari Raya because people returned to their respective oFirefighters sacrifice family time to be on standby for emergencies while nation celebrates Hari Raya █ BYARINA MUSTHAFA [email protected] INSIDE TELLING IT AS IT IS ON FRIDAY APRIL 14, 2023 No. 8250 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Firefighter Mohd Faiz Zulhakim Wadzir inspecting personal protective equipment at the Cheras Fire and Rescue station in Kuala Lumpur. – SYAZWAN KAMAL/THESUN Duty comes first hometowns. So, the only people who would notice houses on fire are usually their non-Muslim neighbours. “It is important for officers to patrol housing areas to prevent the loss of life and damage caused by fires. So, working during the celebrations is something we must do as our duty is to serve the public,” she said. Bad idea to scrap vocational driving licence theory test: Experts 2 page Malayalee community all set to celebrate New Year 3 page

2 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS King, Queen extend Songkran greetings KUALA LUMPUR: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah extended Songkran greetings to the Siamese community in the country yesterday. In a post on Istana Negara’s Facebook, Their Majesties hoped the festival will bring peace, happiness and prosperity to all who celebrate it. There are 60,000 people of Siamese descent in Malaysia, with a large number residing in Kedah and Perlis. Songkran, known as the water festival, is a Thai New Year that is celebrated for three days starting April 13 every year. – Bernama ‘Bad idea to scrap vocational driving licence theory test’ PETALING JAYA: Abolishing the theory test for vocational driving licences is not a good idea as it would make it impossible to assess drivers on their understanding of road safety and regulations, even if they have attended classes. According to Universiti Putra Malaysia Road Safety Research Centre head Assoc Prof Dr Law Teik Hua, the impact of theory classes on drivers and the extent of their knowledge and understanding should have been assessed before the decision was made. He was commenting on the announcement by Transport Minister Anthony Loke on April 10 that those applying for a vocational driving licence would no longer need to sit for a theory test. However, candidates would still be required to attend training and pass the practical test before being issued licences. Law said the theory test will determine whether a commercial vehicle driving candidate oDangerous for examiners to assume candidates understand safety rules and regulations, say experts █ BYRAJVINDER SINGH [email protected] understands what he has learnt in class, and that making assumptions is wrong. “The fundamental concept of a test is to see what the candidate has learnt from the theory class and whether he is fit to be a driver. There is also a need to review the theory and tests. “If they do not meet the standards, then revise the format so that the candidate’s understanding of the rules and regulations is reflected.” He opined that a written test is vital. He asked how will an examiner determine the level of knowledge of a candidate just by showing him a video and asking a few questions? Law said the test must be effective and practical to demonstrate the candidate’s level of understanding. He claimed that from experience, when a person is told that he does not have to take a test, he will pay less attention on the subject. “It is dangerous to assume that a candidate understands the theory without having to take a test. The prospective driver could pose a danger to other road users if his knowledge on road safety is lacking.” Former Road Safety Council member Chris Syer also agreed with Law that abolishing the theory test is not a good idea because the candidate’s level of understanding of road safety will not be known. He said it is pointless if candidates attend theory classes but do not understand what they are learning. “How will anyone know the level of their knowledge without having them sit for a test?” According to Syer, candidates should be given a proper test and training if they are going to drive heavy vehicles. “Many motorists and motorcyclists lack road manners and respect for other road users, for example by speeding, driving in the wrong direction, beating traffic lights and ignoring pedestrian crossings, to name a few that are happening daily on public roads. “The lack of enforcement may be blamed for this but it is clear that many motor vehicle users lack simple road courtesies, which they could have learnt in theory classes.” He added that there would be little need to have policemen on duty to monitor compliance if all drivers were aware of the traffic regulations and adhered to them. Syer said inconsiderate heavy vehicle drivers are a common occurrence on Malaysian roads. “It is most important for a driver to pass the theory test before being allowed to take a practical exam.” Raja Permaisuri Agong attends World #Quranhour KUALA LUMPUR: The Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah yesterday attended the World #QuranHour event at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). Her Majesty arrived at the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Mosque in IIUM at 11.45am to participate in a programme themed “Humanising the Ummah” in line with the Humanising the Home, Humanising the Workplace, Humanising the Nation and Humanising the World agendas. The 8th edition of the World #QuranHour yesterday was held in person after being broadcast exclusively online and on television stations for the past three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, the Surah Al-Insan was the surah of choice, and it was held simultaneously around the world on the 22nd day of Ramadan from noon to 1pm. According to the organiser, Warisan Ummah Ikhlas Foundation, Surah Al-Insan was Her Majesty attending the event at the Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC chosen to instil the values of humanising the ummah, with the 11 human characters of Al-Abrar, i.e. virtuous people, as contained in the surah. The World #QuranHour, with around 3,000 attendees, commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah by Sheikh Hasan Abdul Ghani Abu Sittah and the recitation of Surah Al-Baqarah by Ustaz Abdul Khair Jalil. It was followed by the recitation of Surah Al-Insan by Ustaz Tarmizi Abdul Rahman, Ustaz Ahmad Termizi Ali, Ustaz Amirahman Abas, Muhammad Harith Hakimi Mohd Rostan, Ustaz Husaini Mahmur and Syeikh Rami AsSousi from Palestine. The tadabbur session was delivered by Warisan Ummah Ikhlas Foundation chief research officer Fazrul Ismail, Department of Islamic Development Malaysia senior assistant director Ustaz Mohamad Zarifi Mohamad Daud and Tadabbur Centre main trainer Ustaz Syaari Ab Rahman. Her Majesty and the attendees then recited the pledge to make the Quran a guide in forming a framework of thought and self-operation system based on the 11 characters of Al-Abrar in Surah Al-Insan, led by independent preacher Amin Idris. Her Majesty also spent time with the participants, including IIUM students. – Bernama ‘Free and secure’ theme for National Journalists Day KUALA LUMPUR: The theme for the National Journalists Day (Hawana) celebration this year is “Media Bebas dan Selamat, Tunjang Demokrasi” (Free and Secure Media, a Pillar of Democracy). The event will be held in Ipoh, Perak from May 27 to 29. State National News Agency (Bernama) chief executive officer Roslan Ariffin said the theme was selected based on a number of factors, namely to emphasise issues on media freedom and the safety of journalists in carrying out their duties. “The definition of secure is not just about journalists being able to perform their duties safely but also being protected from legal action, harassment and intimidations, which have become a rampant phenomenon around the world. “We want to emphasise that in carrying out their duties, journalists should be given as much protection as possible and not be intimidated in upholding the truth and carrying out their duties freely,” he said after chairing the Hawana coordination meeting yesterday. Roslan said various events had been lined up, including a treasure hunt, bowling competition and mini carnival, to enliven the Hawana celebration this year. He added that the Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah had also consented to grace the dinner hosted by the state government on May 27. “There will be an international forum involving journalists from Asean member countries on May 28. The highlight will be the official launch of Hawana by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said, adding that 70% of the preparations have been completed. Roslan also praised other media organisations for their cooperation, with some having expressed an intention to be directly involved in the organising of the event. “Some proposed a seminar to enhance public understanding of the duties and functions of journalists. According to Roslan, other media outlets will also be promoting and involved in Hawana 2023. – Bernama ‘Prioritising ESG criteria will benefit SMEs’ KUALA LUMPUR: Companies that prioritise environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria will benefit from improved reputation, increased efficiency and better access to capital. Deputy Entrepreneur and C o o p e r a t i v e s D e v e l o p m e n t Minister Senator Saraswathy Kandasami said these companies are more likely to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner, eventually attracting investors, consumers and regulators who are seeking to support such companies. “The launch of the United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia and Brunei (UNGCMYB) Academy is a significant step towards promoting sustainable development in our region. “It will play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable development by providing a platform for knowledge sharing, capacity building and collaboration among businesses, civil society, academia and government, on par with ESG,” she said at the launch of the UNGCMYB Academy here yesterday. Saraswathy said the academy is an important platform for businesses, civil society organisations, academia and governments to collaborate and create innovative solutions to address the climate change, social inequality and economic instability challenges. “I congratulate all 17 small and medium enterprises graduating from the UNGCMYB Action Centre for Sustainable SMEs Programme, which was done in collaboration with SME Corp Malaysia.” – Bernama

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 Malayalee community all set to celebrate Vishu PETALING JAYA: The Malayalee community in the country will celebrate Vishu, which is their New Year, tomorrow. Steeped in ceremonies and practices that are unique to the community, it marks the beginning of new hope and aspirations, said Malaysia Malayalee Samuga Samajam Association president Uthaya Kumar Balakrishnan. He said according to the Malayalam almanac, Vishu marks the beginning of the Medam month, which spans from April 15 to May 14 in the English calendar. “For the Malayalees, Vishu is the second most important celebration after Onam. People often think that Vishu and Onam are the same, but it’s not.” Uthaya Kumar said Vishu is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is celebrated by worshipping Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. Vishu symbolises the beginning of Spring, and is celebrated in Kerala, India, where the Malayalees come from, he said. “It marks the auspicious day when farmers begin to plough the land and carry out other agricultural activities after offering prayers to the Gods.” Uthaya Kumar said there are some traditions and customs that have been in practice for generations, and one of them is Vishu Kani. “This is a sacred ceremonial preparation comprising uncooked rice, a photo or idol of Lord Vishnu, flowers, fruits, betel leaves, new clothes, money, gold ornaments, coins, brass valkannadi (hand mirror), yellow flowers called kanikkonna (cassia fistula) and others. “The ritual of Vishu Kani must be done at Brahma Muhurta, which is the time before sunrise, as it is believed that the first thing we see is what we will receive in the coming year. It will be prepared on the eve of Vishu,” he said. He added that parents will close their children’s eyes when they get up in the morning, and guide them to the “holy preparation” to ensure that it is the first thing they see on the auspicious day. Uthaya Kumar said the next thing that celebrants do on Vishu is Vishu Kaineetam and Vishu Paddakam. “After observing Vishu Kanni, family members will wear new clothes to receive Vishu Kaineetam, which is the practice of receiving money. For this tradition, the elders will hand out coins or notes to the younger members of the family. “Children and adults will then play with firecrackers from morning to night, which is an integral part of the celebration.” Uthaya Kumar said it is part of the Malayalee tradition to also prepare Vishu Sadhya, better known as the feast, where vegetarian food is served. “The celebrants would prepare Vishu katta (rice cake), mambazha pradhaman (sweet mango pudding), unniyappam, vishu kanji (rice and coconut porridge), ela ada (steamed pancake with coconut), chakka ada (steamed jackfruit) and semiya payasam, among others,” he said. For decorations, nettipattam, which are elephant caparisons, will be hung on the wall and around the house for protection. However, Malayalees usually prefer simplicity and focus more on decorating the prayer room, he added. “Some of the other decorations that we use are an uruli or brass bowl, Lord Krishna idol, kathakali dolls and masks, valkannadi, artificial kanikonna flowers, hanging bundles of padi, and nettoor petti (Kerala jewellery box). “Aside from that, we would also prepare ashtamangalyam, which is a set of eight items that are widely found in Hindu homes in Kerala that symbolically represent auspiciousness and prosperity,” he said. oNew Year celebration signifies beginning of hope, with worship dedicated to deities Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna Penang seeks Nadma help for cloud seeding GEORGE TOWN: The Penang government has written to the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) to seek immediate assistance for cloud-seeding operations to be conducted in dam water catchment areas in the state. Penang Water Supply Corporation chief executive officer K. Pathmanathan said the state government has also approved the allocation of RM400,000 to implement the cloud-seeding operations in water catchment areas in the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams. “In a discussion held on March 29, and in an official letter dated March 30, the State Secretary’s Office had informed Nadma operations implementation division that due to climate change, low rainfall was recorded in the water catchment areas of the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams. “This resulted in the dams’ elective capacities to drop significantly until today. The Air Itam dam, which was previously at 82.5%, had dropped to 49.5%, while the capacity at the Teluk Bahang dam had dropped from 64% to 50.7%,” he said in a statement yesterday. He added that the elective capacity of both dams is projected to decrease further to a critical level if the dry spell continues until August. Pathmanathan said the State Secretary’s Office had also referred to the Meteorological Department regarding the latest status of eligible companies that could carry out cloud-seeding operations. However, no company could meet the criteria and conditions set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia. He said the state government had no other choice but to seek Nadma’s assistance to facilitate the implementation of cloud seeding as soon as possible. “We hope Nadma will prioritise (this) and meet Penang’s request because cloud-seeding operations are needed as soon as possible to produce rain that will refill the Air Itam and Teluk Bahang dams.” He added that Penang must avoid a potential water supply crisis that will cause undue hardship to 1.74 million people, as well as disrupt socioeconomic activities that had contributed RM99 billion to the country’s gross domestic product in 2021. – Bernama The Malayalee community will be celebrating Vishu tomorrow. – PIC COURTESY OF MALAYSIA MALAYALEE SAMUGA SAMAJAM ASSOCIATION Seize education opportunities, Sabah students urged KUALA TERENGGANU: Sabah students have been urged to seize all opportunities provided by the state government through various initiatives to empower human capital development. Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said this is because human capital development is one of the aspects emphasised in the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap. As such, Yayasan Sabah Group had offered various types of scholarships, such as the Sabah state excellent scholarship, excellence rural students scholarship, public/private higher educational institution scholarship, and study loans. “I hope that all of you will seize the various initiatives the government provides. Have the determination to give back to the community because your service is needed to develop our beloved state,” he said at the breaking of fast ceremony with about 500 Sabah students at the Islamic Civilisation Park here on Wednesday night. The text of his speech was read by Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Arif. Hajiji, who is also Yayasan Sabah Board of Trustees chairman, said the state government has also provided various platforms for students to voice their views, including through the Sabah Student Consultation Council Conference, which was first held in May 2022. “The conference gathers Sabah student leaders from public and private higher learning institutions (IPT), teachers education institutes, training institutes and Form Six. “The state government has also established the Malaysian Sabah Student Secretariat as recognition for young people, especially students.” Hajiji said the state government spent RM45 million last year to provide assistance for IPT registration, computer compassionate assistance and assistance to the student secretariat, which is financial aid for registered Sabah student associations and clubs. He said the state government has also allocated RM16.2 million in the state budget this year to implement youth programmes to produce quality leaders. “Our hope is to be able to produce students who are not only successful in the academic field but also have good character,” he said. – Bernama MEF: Review EPF withdrawal policies KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) is calling for the policies on Employees Provident Fund (EPF) withdrawals to be reviewed, taking into account Malaysia’s current retirement age of 60. MEF president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman said yesterday the withdrawal of one-third of EPF savings for members who had reached 50 years old and full withdrawal at age 55 was introduced when the retirement age was 55. “In July 2013, the government raised the retirement age to 60 but the withdrawal policy for ages 50 and 55 remained. Such policy leads to claims that the EPF contributors do not have enough retirement savings when they retire at 60,” he added. “It is critical for EPF members to rebuild their retirement savings, and MEF fully supports the government’s decision not to allow further withdrawal from the EPF savings, which are meant for old age.” However, Syed Hussain said the MEF is confident that there is no cash crunch crisis in the EPF as the retirement fund remained financially strong despite four special Covid-19 pandemic-related withdrawals. – Bernama █ BYTHARANI NAIR newsdesk@thesundaily Co-op launches initiative to help small traders KUALA LUMPUR: Koperasi Pertubuhan Berita Nasional Malaysia (Bernama) Berhad has kicked off its Ihya Ramadan sales at Wisma Bernama to help small traders market their products and facilitate Bernama staff to shop for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Koperasi Bernama chairman Datuk Zakaria Abdul Wahab said the two-day programme, which is being held from 10.30am to 3.30pm, provided an opportunity for entrepreneurs who cannot afford to rent the more expensive spots “Besides that, some of our staff members do not have the opportunity to shop due to time constraints. So, the cooperative decided to provide stalls selling all kinds of items including Raya cookies, shawls and brooches. Response was overwhelming but due to limited space we only offered the opportunity to 10 traders,” he said. – Bernama

4 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS ERL staff to support Makkah Metro for haj KUALA LUMPUR: Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL) will be sending 24 of its employees to Saudi Arabia to support operations at the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro, also known as the Makkah Metro, for this year’s haj season. ERL CEO Noormah Mohd Noor said all ERL representatives and those from its subsidiary company, ERL Maintenance Support Sdn Bhd, will be seconded for two and a half months to support the operations and management of nine stations. “We are honoured to be entrusted by China Railway Construction Corporation Limited Saudi to ensure the smooth running of train services, (especially with regard to) station management and operations control. “This year, the team will include four experienced senior officers, who will be seconded for the eighth time. “We will also be sending six (new) members. who will be joining (the team) for the first time this year. It will certainly be a great learning experience for them,” she said yesterday. The 18km Makkah Metro connects the holy sites of Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina and only operates seven days a year to transport pilgrims during the peak haj week. “The Makkah Metro system is thought to have the highest capacity in the world, with 12 carriages in each train set that can ferry 3,000 passengers a trip, or over 72,000 passengers in each direction, every hour.” Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah said ERL’s initiative to expand its services overseas reflected its high standards and its ability to compete globally. – Bernama Housing scheme eligibility cap raised PUTRAJAYA: The household income eligibility limit to apply for Rumah Mesra Rakyat (RMR) under Syarikat Perumahan Negara Bhd (SPNB) has been raised from RM3,000 per month to RM5,000. Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming said this would open up more opportunities for the people to apply for the housing scheme. “Applications can only be made online via the SPNB website and not via agents.” Nga said among the housing scheme’s new initiatives was the extension of the monthly instalment period from 16 to 25 years, with a fixed rate of RM300. Applicants can choose from six designs offered by SPNB such as a three-room design or changing it to two rooms. “In addition to modern and habitable house designs, SPNB is also in the process of obtaining a quality standards certification from Sirim that is recognised internationally.” Nga said in Budget 2023, RM358 million had been set aside for SPNB to build 4,250 RMR houses this year starting at RM75,000 a unit. – Bernama Minister: No race quota in Armed Forces KUALA LUMPUR: The Armed Forces have never set any racial quota for personnel recruitment, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. He added that recruitment is carried out twice a year, involving the intake of 6,000 to 7,000 personnel. “We have never imposed a quota based on race. The percentage of non-bumiputera in the Armed Forces is very low. “They see there are other jobs like going into business that offer better returns. So, it is not only because there are no retirement plans,” he said, adding that there are plans to prepare its personnel for retirement, including various transition courses organised by the Armed Forces Veterans’ Affairs Department. On the issue of the low percentage of non-bumiputeras joining the Armed Forces, he said plans to attract them, including online applications and roadshows, are in the works throughout the country. – Bernama NGO raising awareness on use of child restraint seats KUALA LUMPUR: From minor injuries to life-threatening ones, the consequences of road crashes on children can be devastating for their families. With Hari Raya around the corner, it is important to ensure children under 12 years are strapped in child restraint seats (CRS) while travelling in vehicles. However, an NGO called Safe Kids, which was established in 2011 at Universiti Putra Malaysia, said many parents and guardians seem to be oblivious to this, despite road safety laws having such a requirement. On April 12, together with the Aga Khan University in Pakistan, Safe Kids conducted a webinar titled “Child Restraint Seat: A Law Less Understood” to show how dangerous it oMany parents not aware existing laws stipulate requirement as mandatory, says safety expert █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] is to not use a CRS. Safe Kids executive director Prof Dr Kulanthayan K.C. Mani said: “Our organisation has a mission to enhance children’s lives by preventing injuries. “Our initiative is crucial because children are vulnerable on the roads and it’s vital for the public, especially parents, guardians and all motorists to realise the importance of having them use a CRS.” Kulanthayan said PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) anticipates about two million vehicles would use the highway network during peak days over the Hari Raya holidays, which is a 20% rise in traffic compared with normal days. “Every year, countless children become victims of road crashes that can lead to devastating consequences, especially during festive seasons. “Each passenger in a car who is below 12 years old needs to use a CRS as road crashes are a serious concern that affects children and adults. “Safe Kids recorded 545,630 road crashes and 6,076 fatalities last year. “Motorcyclists, drivers and passengers were involved in a significant number of these road crashes.” Kulanthayan added that in Malaysia, the CRS regulation has been gazetted by the Road Transport Department under the Road Transport Act 1978 – Motor Vehicles (Safety Seat-belts) (Amendment) Rules 2019. On Jan 1, 2020, the law was implemented for private vehicles. According to the rules, only CRS that comply with UN Regulations standards (R44 or R129) are legal in Malaysia as they are considered the safest standards, with improved head and neck protection. “Correctly installed CRS can reduce deaths among infants by 70%, children aged between one and four by 54% and injuries among children aged between four and seven by 59%. “It’s also crucial that children should be seated at the back to avoid injuries caused by the inflation of the front airbags in case of a road crash.” He urged the public to take the matter seriously and reach out to friends and family members and inform them of the safety measure. “Make sure all passengers wear seat belts and use a CRS. Let’s popularise the new normal of giving out safety products and encouraging a culture of using them to save lives,” he told theSun. Malaysians advised to opt for healthier Raya dishes KUALA LUMPUR: As the Aidilfitri celebration draws near, Muslims are busy preparing for the festivities with home decorations as well as traditional dishes to serve for Raya, but how many are aware of the importance of preparing healthy dishes and prioritising health and well-being? Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist Dr Lim Sim Yee said overeating during Aidilfitri can lead to weight gain, especially when consuming more calories than one can burn off. “This can have long-term health consequences, such as an increased risk of obesity and related health conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Eating too much, or consuming high-fat, high-sugar dishes, can also lead to digestive problems, like indigestion, bloating and constipation.” Lim suggested looking for healthier alternatives, such as grilled or baked dishes instead of fried or high-fat dishes and opt for dishes with lean protein, whole grains and plenty of vegetables, as well as control portion sizes by taking smaller portions of each dish and eating slowly to help prevent overeating. She said managing sugar intake can be challenging over the festive season, as many traditional dishes, drinks and desserts have a high sugar content, adding that people should have water or go for unsweetened drinks. “You can try to make your drinks by infusing water with fruits and herbs. Fresh fruits can satisfy your sweet cravings without the added sugar. “You can also try making healthier versions of traditional desserts using natural sweeteners like dates, honey and maple syrup instead of white sugar. Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe and add more fibre-rich ingredients like whole grains or fruits,” Lim said as children are prone to eating many festive cookies and snacks, as well as drinking syrup-based and carbonated drinks as they go around visiting family and friends, parents should set a good example by becoming role models for healthy eating and making healthy food choices. “Encourage children to also participate in physical activities such as going for a walk or bike ride. This can help burn off excess calories and promote a healthy lifestyle.” – Bernama FESTIVE PURCHASES ... A woman buying costume jewellery at a stall in Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman ahead of the Aidilfitri celebrations next week. – WAN MIRZA ISKANDAR/THESUN

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 Najib’s 1MDB case management on May 26 PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal has fixed May 26 for an additional case management for a prosecution’s appeal against the acquittal of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak and former 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) CEO Arul Kanda Kandasamy in relation to the 1MDB audit tampering case. Arul Kanda’s lawyer Jasmine Cheong confirmed that the additional case management date was fixed as the records of appeal were not ready. The first case management for the prosecution’s appeal was conducted yesterday before Court of Appeal deputy registrar Mohd Khairi Haron. Apart from Cheong, lawyer Alaistair Norman, representing Najib, and DPP Parvin Hameedah Natchiar, appearing for the prosecution, were also present. On March 3, High Court Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan (now Court of Appeal judge) acquitted and discharged Najib and Arul Kanda after finding that the prosecution had failed to prove a prima facie case. Both were freed of the charges without their defence being called. In his judgement, Mohamed Zaini said he had given a maximum evaluation at the end of the prosecution’s case and found no evidence to suggest or prove that Najib explicitly directed the amendments made to exonerate him from any civil or criminal liability. In Arul Kanda’s case, the judge found that he (Arul Kanda) was consistent throughout his testimony and that it was compatible with the evidence produced and testimonies of other witnesses. Najib, 70, who is serving a 12-year jail sentence in Kajang Prison for misappropriating SRC International Sdn Bhds funds, was charged with using his position to order amendments to the 1MDB final audit report. Arul Kanda, 46, was charged with abetting Najib in making the amendments to the report, to protect Najib from being subjected to action. The offence was allegedly committed at the Prime Minister’s Department Complex, Federal Government Administrative Centre in Putrajaya between Feb 22 and 26, 2016. The prosecution filed a notice of appeal at the Court of Appeal on March 9. – Bernama PAS seeks to strike out Amanah VP defamation suit KUALA LUMPUR: PAS is seeking to strike out a defamation suit filed by Amanah vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof against the party over its allegation that he supports the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community. PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan filed the application through Messrs Tetuan Tengku Amalin & Faizi at the High Court on Feb 15. The application was made on grounds that Mujahid failed to disclose any reasonable cause of action, Bernama reported. Mujahid’s lawyer Noorazmir Zakaria said the application would be heard before Judge Datuk Ahmad Shahrir Mohd Salleh on June 21. Mujahid claimed that on Oct 16 last year, PAS had defamed and humiliated him with malicious intent in an article on Facebook titled Mantan Menteri Agama PH Sokong LGBT? (Former PH Religious Minister Supports LGBT?). He said the article, posted along with his picture, implied that he allowed, supported and accepted the community. Mujahid added that the article had caused him to suffer emotional stress in addition to damaging his reputation and credibility as a former religious minister in the Prime Minister’s Department. He is seeking an order for PAS to withdraw and delete the article, as well as general, aggravated and exemplary damages. PAS claimed that the plaintiff’s statement of claim was flawed and invalid because the plaintiff failed to name the offender who had control and published the article in question. HIGH AND DRY ... Deputy DirectorGeneral (Logistics) and Acting DirectorGeneral of Maritime Malaysia, Vice-Admiral (M) Datuk Saiful Lizan Ibrahim (second from left) examining a boat used to smuggle RM3.3 million worth cigarettes in Tanjung Gabang, Selangor. – BERNAMAPIC Animal cruelty cases increase by 25% PETALING JAYA: A total of 160 animal cruelty cases were reported last year, which is an increase of 25.98% from 127 cases in 2021, said the Veterinary Services Department. However, its spokesman said the figure is 39.62% lower compared with 2020, involving 265 cases, which was also the highest number reported between 2020 and last year. “Research shows animal abuse is linked to domestic violence and mental health issues. Cases that were charged in court involved oIncluding awareness module in education syllabus could help reduce abuse, says shelter manager █ BYVEISHNAWI NEHRU [email protected] Ex-political secretary denies graft charge MALACCA: The former political secretary to an ex-Malacca chief minister, Datuk Rosli Hasan, 52, pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court yesterday to 12 counts of accepting bribes totalling RM408,736 in 2017 and 2018. On the first count, he was charged with accepting a bribe of RM323,736 in the form of renovation work to a house belonging to his wife in Taman Pokok Mangga between May 2017 and February 2018. On 11 other charges, he is alleged to have accepted bribes of credit card payments totalling RM85,000 between May and Oct 19, 2017, Bernama reported. He is alleged to have accepted the bribes as inducement to help a company secure a contract to design and build a mosque, multipurpose hall, shoplots and a garbage dump at Lot 341 and 345 in Mukim Bachang, involving RM5.28 million. The charge, under Section 16(a)(B) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009, provides 20 years imprisonment and a fine of RM10,000 or five times the value of the bribes, whichever is higher. DPP Irwan Shah Abdul Samad prosecuted, while Rosli was represented by lawyer Azrul Zulkifli Stork. Judge Elesabet Paya Wan set May 16 for remention. Tugboat detained for rules violation LABUAN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Labuan maritime zone detained a tugboat at 0.4 nautical miles south of Pulau Papan early yesterday. Its deputy director Comm Mohd Hafiz Abd Mutalib said MMEA personnel on Op Sejahtera, Op Khas Kuda Laut and Op Tiris were carrying out a routine inspection on the tugboat when they found that it did not report the change of skipper in the Certificate of Malaysian Registry book. During the inspection, the tugboat was manned by a 52-year-old skipper and a 47-year-old chief officer, both Indonesian citizens. According to Mohd Hafiz, the boat was seized and the two Indonesians were taken to the Labuan maritime zone jetty for further investigations. The case is being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952. Mohd Hafiz said MMEA would not compromise with any element of criminal activities and misconduct at sea, and anyone with information on suspicious activities can contact the Labuan Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 087-45 3777 or MERS 999. – Bernama animals being brutally beaten, injured and killed.” The spokesman said cockfighting is also classified as cruelty to animals and those involved may not be aware that the activity causes suffering and death to animals, and is an offence. “There was a case in 2020 in which 28 men were sentenced for engaging in cockfighting for gambling,” he said. Selangor Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) general manager Kelvin K.T. Cheah said education is critical to ensure animals are safe. “We don’t see a sudden increase in animal cruelty cases. It’s just that such cases are now receiving more publicity from the media and citizen journalists. “Hence, the perpetrators are being exposed more easily than they previously were,” he said. Cheah added that SPCA dealt with about 70 cases a month before 2015, which were all transferred to the Selangor Veterinary Department for further action. “Last year, we rehabilitated about 130 dogs and 70 cats monthly.” “Recent cases include a tenant at a condominium unit at Bandar Sri Permaisuri in Cheras who allegedly abandoned animals in the apartment, causing their deaths. There was also a mass poisoning case involving more than 25 stray dogs in Penang. “We have been moving towards a no-kill policy since 2013. “Unless the animals have a place to go, we have to keep other requests on our waiting list,” he said. SPCA offers the Stray Free Selangor scheme, which is a subsidised neutering project for rescuers, apart from flexible surrendering policies where they can take the animals back after two months if they are not adopted. “We also offer to fundraise for animals that need medical treatment, provided the rescuer continues caring for them,” Cheah said. PAWS Animal Welfare Society shelter manager Edward Lim said education in school is critical to reduce cases of animal cruelty. “Throughout our education from primary school to university, we have never been taught about animal welfare. “This has made people grow up without much exposure to animals or how to treat them, especially strays, with compassion,” Lim said. He added that PAWS is known as the shelter for unwanted pets as it receives pets from owners who cannot care for them. “Animal rescuers pick up strays from the streets and send them to us as well. “Our biggest challenge at PAWS is funding, as we have to cover vaccination, neutering, feeding and medical care if the animals are not well. “Finding homes for pets is not easy as fewer people are adopting after the pandemic since they are facing financial issues. “We also give talks at universities and colleges to encourage students to adopt a stray,” he said.

6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME Asean ‘strongly condemns’ Myanmar air strike oAll forms of violence must end immediately, says statement JAKARTA: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) “strongly condemns” recent air strikes in Myanmar in which dozens of people were reported killed, said a statement issued yesterday by Indonesia, the current Asean chair. “All forms of violence must end immediately, particularly the use of force against civilians.” A statement from the Asean chair does not necessarily indicate the agreement of all member states. The official death toll from Tuesday morning’s strike on the remote Kanbalu township in Myanmar’s central Sagaing region remains unclear, though at least 100 fatalities have been reported by the BBC, The Irrawaddy and Radio Free Asia. The junta confirmed on Wednesday it had “launched limited air strikes” after receiving a tip-off from locals about an event marking the opening of a local defence force office connected to the military government’s opponents. The attack drew swift condemnation from the United Nations and Western powers, with UN rights chief Volker Turk saying he was “horrified” by the deadly strike. One villager told AFP on North Korea likely fired ‘new type’ of missile, says South Evacuations ordered as cyclone nears Australia CANBERRA: A powerful tropical cyclone hurtled towards Western Australia yesterday, triggering a “red alert” emergency and evacuation orders as authorities warned violent winds could toss caravans, tear down trees and turn debris into “missiles”. Tropical Cyclone Ilsa gathered strength over the Indian Ocean and Port Hedland, one of the world’s major iron ore-shipping hubs, was cleared of vessels in preparation. The Bureau of Meteorology predicted the category five storm would bring a “severe impact” with gusts of up to 315kph, making it one of the most powerful cyclones to hit the state in a decade. The storm was expected to make landfall early today, landing somewhere between the coastal towns of Broome and Port Hedland – about 17 hours’ drive north of the state capital Perth. It is forecast to then move inland, with weather warnings in place for a vast but sparsely populated expanse stretching some 1,000km from the coast into the desert Outback. The region is home to iron ore and gold mines, sprawling cattle ranches and Aboriginal communities. The Bureau of Meteorology said the winds would be strong enough to tear down trees and powerlines, and could launch caravans and even trampolines. Flash flooding was also a risk, the weather bureau said. The state’s Fire and Emergency Services Department said it “cannot stress enough how extreme these B R I E F SKILLERS OF INDIAN SOLDIERS ON THE RUN NEW DELHI: Indian police were hunting yesterday for two masked men responsible for the pre-dawn killing of four soldiers at an army base near the Pakistan border. The attack took place on Wednesday morning at the Bathinda military station in Punjab. The military said four soldiers had been shot in their sleep. A police report, quoting an army major who witnessed the attack, said two unidentified men had entered the high security outpost with their faces covered. One was carrying a rifle reported missing from the base two days earlier, the report said, and the duo fled towards a forest near the barracks after the attack. A search for the suspects was under way, media reports said. – AFP BRAZIL IS BACK, SAYS LULA BEIJING: President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva promised yesterday that “Brazil is back!” during a state visit to China aimed at strengthening trade ties and winning support for his push for peace in Ukraine. The veteran leftist, who arrived in Shanghai on Wednesday night, is seeking to reposition Brazil as a key global player after four years of relative isolation under his predecessor Jair Bolsonaro. “The time when Brazil was absent from major world decisions is in the past,” Lula said at a ceremony to inaugurate his political ally Dilma Rousseff as president of BRICS New Development Bank. “We are back on the international stage.” – AFP NEW BEGINNING ... Devotees pouring water on a statue of Buddha as part of celebrations of the Buddhist New Year, locally known as Songkran, at the Prachapirom temple in the southern Thai province of Narathiwat yesterday. – AFPPIC Wednesday that it was difficult to identify the dead. “We can not identify anymore who is who among the dead because they all became pieces. Indonesia – Southeast Asia’s biggest economy – is serving as 2023 chair of Asean and will host the 10-member bloc’s annual leaders’ meetings in May and September. Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said last week that Jakarta had been working hard to implement the “five-point consensus” agreed upon with the Myanmar junta in April 2021, which calls for an end to violence and dialogue between the military and rebels. But the plan has been largely ignored by the junta, and mediation attempts by Asean countries to resolve the crisis have so far failed. Jakarta’s chairmanship of the bloc had raised hopes Asean could push for a peaceful solution in Myanmar, using Indonesia’s weight as a regional economic power and its diplomatic experience. Indonesia earlier this year announced plans to set up a special envoy’s office under the foreign ministry to establish low-level dialogue with the junta, though little information has emerged about the status of any talks. The junta remains an Asean member but has been barred from top-level summits over its failure to implement the peace plan. Following the coup that toppled Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government in 2021, a military crackdown on dissent and armed groups opposed to their rule has left 3,200 people dead, according to a local monitoring group. – AFP SEOUL: North Korea likely fired a “new type” of ballistic missile yesterday that may have used advanced solid fuel, Seoul’s military said, representing a potential technical breakthrough for Pyongyang’s banned weapons programmes. “North Korea appears to have fired a new type of ballistic missile, possibly using solid fuel,” said Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff. All of Pyongyang’s known intercontinental ballistic missiles are liquid-fuelled, and solid-fuel ICBMs that can be launched from land or submarines have long been on top of leader Kim Jong-un’s wish list. Such missiles are easier to store and transport, more stable and quicker to prepare for launch, and thus harder to detect and destroy pre-emptively. At a military parade in Pyongyang in February, North Korea showed off a record number of nuclear and intercontinental ballistic missiles, including what analysts said was possibly a new solid-fuelled ICBM. Seoul’s military said yesterday it had detected one “medium range or longer” ballistic missile launched on a lofted trajectory – up not out – from the Pyongyang area. Japan, which briefly issued a seek shelter warning to residents of the northern Hokkaido region, said the missile had not fallen within the country’s territory and posed no threat to residents. Climate and environment ministers from the Group of Seven are due to meet this weekend in Sapporo, Hokkaido’s regional capital, a month before the group holds its summit in Hiroshima. – AFP China bans ships from area north of Taiwan BEIJING: China will ban vessels from an area near Taiwan on Sunday because of the possibility of falling rocket debris, its maritime safety agency said yesterday. South Korea, which was briefed on the plans, said it was in connection with the possibility of objects falling from a satellite launch vehicle. In a statement, China’s Maritime Safety Administration released coordinates for the zone, saying shipping was banned from entering from 9am (same time in Malaysia) until 3pm on Sunday as there “may be falling rocket debris”. The coordinates correspond to a rectangular area to Taiwan’s northeast, with the closest point 118km from Taiwan, illustrated on a map that Taiwan’s Transport Ministry released on Wednesday. The zone is to the northwest of Japan’s Ishigaki island and close to a group of disputed islets in the East China Sea that Japan calls the Senkaku and China the Diaoyu. Japan had sought an explanation from China as to what was going on, said Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno. – Reuters conditions will be for those in the area”. Port Hedland mayor Peter Carter said the destructive winds could turn flying debris into missiles in the air. “That’s what causes all the damage, that is what injures people,” he told national broadcaster ABC. “Everyone is on edge.” Australian researchers have repeatedly warned that climate change amplifies the risk of natural disasters such as bushfires, floods and cyclones. – AFP

7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS @thesundaily theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME ‘Secret files leaked by gun enthusiast’ WASHINGTON: The source behind a leak of highly sensitive US government documents is a young gun enthusiast who first shared them on social media, The Washington Post reported on Wednesday. The breach – which has sparked a criminal investigation by the Department of Justice – includes classified information about Ukraine’s battle against invading Russian forces, as well as secret assessments of US allies. Two members of a group on online social platform Discord told the Post that hundreds of pages of material had been posted there by a man who told them he worked on a US military base and brought the documents home with him. The man, who went by the nickname “OG”, regularly posted documents on the group for months, the group members told the Post, speaking on condition of anonymity. Some information in the documents was so sensitive it was marked “NOFORN”, meaning it was not to be shared with foreign nationals, the newspaper reported. The group of around 24, including people from Russia and Ukraine, bonded over their “mutual love of guns, military gear and God”, and formed an “invitation-only clubhouse in 2020 on Discord”, the Post reported. OG told the group members that he spent “some of his day inside a secure facility that prohibited cellphones and other electronic devices”, the paper reported. He also told them that he “toiled for hours writing up the classified documents to share with his companions in the Discord server”, the paper reported. Dozens of photographs of documents have been found on Twitter, Telegram, Discord and other sites in recent days, though some may have circulated online for weeks. – AFP B R I E F SBRAZIL CLAMPS DOWN ON SOCIAL MEDIA BRASILIA: Brazil’s government on Wednesday announced new restrictions on social media, aiming to curb an “epidemic” of violent school attacks one week after a man with a hatchet killed four children. Justice Minister Flavio Dino said web sites will be ordered to take steps to ban content and users who “are promoting or supporting attacks or violence against schools”. Social media companies will also be required to send data to police on all users sharing violent content, and block users who have been banned for sharing violent content from creating new profiles. Platforms that do not comply may be fined up to 12 million reais (RM10.6 million) and possibly have their sites suspended by federal authorities, the minister said. – AFP TOP COP WHO USED EXORCISM TO FIGHT CRIME OUSTED BOGOTA: Colombia’s government on Wednesday fired the country’s police chief, Henry Sanabria, weeks after the devout Catholic revealed he used exorcism and prayer to help him tackle crime and pursue drug lords. Sanabria sparked a scandal last month when he told an interviewer that he and other police officials were performing exorcisms to snag drug traffickers. “I appreciate General Sanabria’s hard work” for the Colombian police, leftist President Gustavo Petro wrote on Twitter, without giving details about why he was removed from his post. A police official, speaking to local media on condition of anonymity, said Sanabria has been urging his subordinates to attend religious retreats. – AFP Saudi Arabia hosts landmark Iran, Syria visits RIYADH: Saudi Arabia hosted landmark delegations from Iran and Syria on Wednesday as Gulf countries prepare for re-establishing diplomatic ties after years of bitter divisions. Only hours after Iranian state media said a delegation had touched down in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia announced the arrival of Syria’s foreign minister in Jeddah – the first such trip since the country’s civil war broke out in 2011. Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad met with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan and discussed “the necessary steps to achieve a complete political settlement to the Syrian crisis”, the Foreign Ministry in Riyadh said in a statement. The aim is to achieve “a national reconciliation and bring back Syria to its Arab fold and resume its natural role in the Arab world”, it said. The two diplomats also confirmed that steps would be take to resume consular services and also announced plans to resume flights between their countries. With Iran President Ebrahim Raisi also expected in Saudi Arabia soon, and the Saudis negotiating with Yemen’s Huthi rebels this week in an attempt to end fighting there, optimism has blossomed for the turbulent Gulf region during the holy month of Ramadan. “Iranians and Syrians are in Saudi Arabia on the same day. That’s totally crazy and was inconceivable a few months ago,” a Riyadh-based Arab diplomat told AFP. Representatives of nine Arab countries will meet in Jeddah today to discuss letting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s long-isolated country attend an Arab League summit next month. Earlier, Tehran announced the arrival of the Iranian delegation in Riyadh to pave the way for reopening diplomatic missions, seven years after an acrimonious break in ties. The visit comes after a Saudi delegation made a similar trip to Iran’s capital, and follows a historic meeting in China between the two governments’ foreign ministers who vowed to bring stability to the troubled region. Washington has cautiously welcomed the rapprochement between the Saudis and Iran despite the role of China, which it sees as its biggest global challenger. – AFP Macron says France will not be US vassal AMSTERDAM: French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday stood by his controversial comments on Taiwan, saying that being a US ally did not mean being a “vassal”. Macron, wrapping up a state visit to the Netherlands during which he has also faced protests over pension reforms, said France still backed the “status quo” on Taiwan. But the French leader appeared to stick by remarks in an interview at the weekend, in which he said Europe should not be a “follower” of either Washington or Beijing or get caught up in any escalation. “Being an ally does not mean being a oPresident defends ‘right to think for ourselves’, backs ‘status quo’ on Taiwan vassal ... doesn’t mean that we don’t have the right to think for ourselves,” Macron told a press conference in Amsterdam with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte. Macron, who visited China last week, said French and European policy on Taiwan “has not changed” despite the furore over his remarks to Politico and Les Echos in which he backed Europe’s strategic autonomy. “France is for the status quo in Taiwan” and a “peaceful resolution to the situation”, he said. The first state visit to the Netherlands by a French president in 23 years was filled with pomp including a boat trip on one of Amsterdam’s scenic canals and a dinner in the capital’s famed Rijksmuseum. But the two-day stay to promote ties between the two key EU members has not stopped Macron from facing pressure on a series of both domestic and foreign issues. Macron’s weekend interview on Taiwan drew praise as “brilliant” in China – which rejects US support of what it sees as a breakaway province – but raised eyebrows among Western allies. Dutch premier Rutte said he agreed with Macron that Europe “must be a player and not a playing field”, but insisted that Washington remained an “essential partner when it comes to security and freedom”. On the protests targeting Macron, Rutte said “we are the hosts so you don’t want that”. Police arrested two demonstrators who ran towards the French president outside Amsterdam University in an apparent protest against France increasing the pension age from 62 to 64. “For the honour of the workers and a better world ... even if Macron doesn’t like it, we are here,” one protester chanted, using the words of a French protest song, as he was pinned down by several security officials in Amsterdam. – AFP New York appoints first-ever rat ‘czar’ WASHINGTON: New York appointed its first rat “czar” on Wednesday, tasked with cracking down on one of the more unappealing aspects of life in the Big Apple. The appointment of Kathleen Corradi comes four months after the city posted a tongue-in-cheek advert seeking “somewhat bloodthirsty” candidates for the role. Rats are regularly seen in America’s largest metropolis, often spotted scurrying between subway tracks and sniffing around garbage bags on sidewalks. Legend has it that there are as many rats as humans – nine million – although that figure has been debunked as a myth by a statistician. One of the critters shot to internet stardom in 2015 when it was filmed walking down the stairs of a subway station with a full slice of pizza in its mouth. “New York may be famous for the Pizza Rat, but rats, and the conditions that help them thrive will no longer be tolerated. No more dirty curbs, unmanaged spaces, or brazen burrowing,” Corradi said in a statement. The former teacher and expert in waste management will be paid US$155,000 a year, according to the New York Times. Her official title is director of rodent mitigation, Mayor Eric Adams’s office said in a statement. – AFP HIGH-CALIBRE DEFENCE ... Ukrainian servicemen loading ammunition for an antiaircraft cannon near the frontline town of Bakhmut. – REUTERSPIC

8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 SPEAK UP infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Middle-Eastern and Central Asian Countries despite worldwide interference, exacerbated by nation-to-nation conflict. This is then worsened due to the absence of adequate supportive governance in sustaining an advancement in water storage, distribution and sanitary facilities. There must be an increased international effort to mediate international conflict in these areas and provide means of supportive governance and aid to ensure that the necessary access to clean water and sanitation can be achieved. Potential global conflict over this particular resource will inevitably halt if there is increased international effort in introducing sustainable policies, which overcome the challenges brought about by geopolitical tensions and domestic strife. Widespread poverty and degradation will inevitably result if conflict-ridden areas over the issue of clean water and sanitation continue to grow in intensity. This only serves as a catalyst for oncoming global conflict over water, as a depleting natural resource. Geopolitical issues such as India’s posturing to develop a dam for energy-efficiency purposes in the Ganges River have for instance been a historically tendentious issue with Bangladesh. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, the current interstate conflicts over clean water occur mainly in the Middle East (disputes stemming from the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers among Turkey, Syria and Iraq, and the Jordan River conflict among Israel, Lebanon, Jordan and the State of Palestine), in Africa (Nile Riverrelated conflicts among Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan), as well as in Central Asia (the Aral Sea conflict among Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan). History has also taught us that if this issue is not overcome, it could potentially allude to a heightened geopolitical crisis. Historical instances may include: “430 BC - Spartans Poison Cistern”, “1941 – Sabotage of Soviet Dam, “1992 – Serbs Cut Water and Power to Sarajevo”, “2001 – Battle for Water Reservoir, “2002 – Violence over Indian River, “2014 – Water Crisis in Yemen” and the “2018 to 2021 Water Protests in Iran”. In an age where global power dynamics are significantly shifting, with rising tensions with world powers, there must be a concentrated focus on diplomatically solving the issue of water security given its contentious nature. The last issue that will also be thoroughly investigated and subjected to the burden of scrutiny are the domestic concerns that mainly affect poverty-stricken nations. Recently, the World Water Council urged countries across the globe to enhance efforts to ensure accessibility to clean water and sanitation for all. One of the biggest challenges that ravage poverty-stricken countries is the harmful pollutants and hazardous chemicals that denigrate water infrastructure, hence weakening water insecurity. This also contributes to the development of water-borne diseases, instigating public health emergencies. A significant shift, therefore, is needed in assisting these nations as these drawbacks will only delay efforts to improve water accessibility given the many constraints already suffered domestically by these countries. The latest statistics, based on the Global Water Security 2023 assessment, indicate that “three out of four people currently live in water-insecure countries”. More people die from a lack of safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene services than water-related disasters, reveals the new UN global water security assessment. The study also went on to emphasise that many nations are facing “critical levels” of water insecurity. While the study highlighted Malaysia’s status as “water-secure” in the Asia Pacific region, the issue of water insecurity worldwide is increasingly burdening and plaguing a plethora of nations, which could pose a significant threat to global progress in this area. These nations also lack the apparatus and infrastructure to facilitate rural community access to clean water. There should be newfound efforts to strengthen the development of these nations such that these facilities, spearheaded by the international community, ought to be considered and implemented via international coordination through the contribution of important sanitation technologies and purifying instruments. It is only through a sustainable paradigm shift in these nations via the acquisition of crucial technologies that the issue of water security worldwide can be addressed substantially and bring about a long-lasting impact. The future of water security is replete with challenges and the international community must swiftly develop comprehensive solutions to tackle the issue. Comments: [email protected] /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Water and sanitation services for all WATER and sanitation security is becoming increasingly important as scarcity worsens owing to a variety of issues that demand immediate attention and continue to harm millions of vulnerable people worldwide. The topic is critical and it has been repeatedly predicted that it will be at the centre of a future geopolitical conflict. The United Nations has established the sustainable development goal initiative of clean water and sanitation. An agenda promising to achieve its core principles by 2030, spanning its vision to champion universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all. However, is this supposed vision feasible when the Middle East and Africa regions have the greatest expected economic losses from climate-related water scarcity, estimated at 6% to 14% of GDP by 2050? Despite the agenda that pledged allegiance to promoting water efficiency, my interjections extend to mentioning that more than five billion people could suffer water shortages by 2050 due to climate change, increased demand and polluted supplies, according to a UN report on the state of the world’s water. While taking the appearance of feasibility, these developmental strategies’ downsides are discernible as it seemingly lacks quantitative comprehension of a future economic crisis and geopolitical issues. A potential global recession or a denigration of water infrastructure could see this very agenda succumb to the ramifications of water scarcity. There are possibly three dimensions by which the issue may be analysed: water as an economic problem following a potential financial crisis, worldwide geopolitical issues concerning clean water supply and domestic issues that result in poor infrastructure and resource allocation. Access to clean water and sanitary products and facilities continues to be a problem due to scarcity as it is a natural resource which, when constrained by multiple factors, can increasingly edge closer towards dangerous levels of near depletion. The following are quantitative statistics that arrive at a consensus that is deeply worrying, conducted by the global outreach establishment United Nations Children’s Fund and a plethora of other human development and strategic institutions: “844 million people don’t have clean water.” “2.3 billion people don’t have a decent toilet.” “31% of schools don’t have clean water.” “Diseases caused by dirty water and poor toilets kill a child under five every two minutes.” Around the world up to 443 million school days are lost every year because of waterrelated illnesses. However, it would be factually inconsistent and incorrect to postulate the exact idea that concludes that water inaccessibility is decreasing in all places of the world. According to projected statistics in 2015, most nations significantly improved their water accessibility in more than 90% of their households. This marks significant progress since 1990 when most countries across Latin America, East and South Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa were often well below 90%. Access remains lowest in Sub-Saharan Africa where rates typically range from 40% to 80% of households. Despite this, however, the global reservoir of water accessibility is still at a shameful 35% according to world data. To understand the progression behind the very propinquity of water management in sanitation, one has to refer to the efforts of the World Health Organisation which established the “Water Safety Plan”, which had an emphasis on strengthening socio-political awareness in communities about water sanitation through the use of the regulatory policy. However, the measures that have been taken require new plans to tackle the issue of economic unpredictability specifically following the Covid19 pandemic. When analysing the recommended policy analysis of world economic institutions, it has been emphasised that the economy has, nevertheless, seen a significant progression from the detrimental effects of the global economic and financial catastrophe in 2009. The worldwide economic situation, worsened by the global pandemic and disrupted supply chains, has brought the world closer to a recession. This would be the weakest annual growth rate since 2009 when global output was shrinking at an annualised rate of 3%. This potentially depreciates the efforts of worldwide institutions that have chosen to implement policy and introduce greater sums of monetary investments in improving the overall condition of water sanitation through developmental technology and infrastructure, which means there will be a deficit in funding. The second issue that requires circumvention rests on the shoulders of those who helm current global affairs and the geopolitics concerning clean water supply and universal nourishment. There is an evident denigration of water “The issue of water insecurity worldwide is increasingly burdening and plaguing a plethora of nations, which could pose a significant threat to global progress in this area. Ramadan Bazaar, Malaysia’s annual street food fest EVERY year during the month of Ramadan, hundreds of thousands of Malaysians look forward to an exciting time at the annual Ramadan Bazaar. Whether you are a Muslim or nonMuslim, everyone looks forward to visiting the bazaar for a feast of food and drinks. As we enter the last week of Ramadan, we can’t help but notice how significant this street food fest is to all of us. For Muslims, the excitement is greater when hunting for good food for breaking fast or Buka Puasa or Iftar. The bazaar is usually situated along the road, with bustling crowds queueing at vendors and stalls selling all kinds of delicacies you can think of. Most bazaars start at about 3.30pm and peak at about 6.30pm just before the breaking of fast. The main disadvantage is that it will cause a frustrating traffic jam for everyone travelling in the vicinity. The food and the festive feel, however, trump all the traffic frustration and lines of long queues. The whole ambience of the bazaar is always a sight to behold, with smoke trailing from the satay stalls and grilled fish to the fragrance of murtabak, roti John, kebabs, nasi kukus ayam and the famous nasi lemak, just to name a few. As for snacks and desserts, this year’s famous kuih is Tepung Pelita, which garners lines of long queues. There are many kinds of traditional kuihs, snacks and delicious desserts and drinks such as air mata kucing, soya cincau, sirap bandung, coconut shakes and, my personal favourite, cendol. Overall, the Ramadan Bazaar is a pleasant event since we get to learn about Malaysian culture through food and drink while also being mesmerised by its culinary beauty. This four-week-long bazaar is considered a unique cultural event for Malaysians as it symbolises unity and brings out harmonious relationships among all races and religions. Soon, the roads in our neighbourhood will be clear again and there will be no more daily traffic struggles in the late afternoon. But one thing is certain, we shall miss the joyful atmosphere created by the booths during Ramadan, with their delicious food and drinks. I look forward to next year along with the sights and excitement of a good food hunt at the Ramadan Bazaar. Adelle R. B. Kuala Lumpur A family-owned stall preparing roti boom and murtabak at a Ramadan Bazaar in Taman Melawati recently. LETTERS [email protected] COMMENT by Pravin Periasamy

ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 >> Find out how to make your big day extra special, with everything from proposal suggestions to the best venues to hold your wedding

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 S2 OUTDOOR weddings are not for everyone, but they are definitely worth considering, as a beautiful location can make your big day extra special. So, if you’re planning your wedding and want to take your vows while surrounded by nature, here is a list of outdoor wedding locations for you to explore. The Seavoy House The Seavoy House is a magnificent estate with natural architecture and rich greenery, making it a fantastic location for your wedding festivities. The wonderfully landscaped gardens, which are in Titiwangsa, make an ideal backdrop for wedding photos and create a unique and fantastic atmosphere for your big day. The modern two-story cottage provides a gorgeous setting. This site is ideal for a wedding with a tropical or rural theme because it is outside of the hectic city. A total of 150 individuals can be seated here. Address: 28, Jalan Titiwangsa, Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur Jade Hills Resort Club Jade Hills Resort Club is an entertainment center located in Kajang, Selangor. Its picturesque green surroundings make it an ideal location for outdoor weddings, as it is surrounded by beautiful greenery that will give you a sense of calm and satisfaction. So, if you want a setting that is relaxing and peaceful for a small wedding, Jade Hills Resort Club is a perfect venue to rent. Address: Jade Hills, 43000 Seri Kembangan, Selangor Bayswater KLCC Located right in the middle of the city, Bayswater KLCC is a fantastic option for garden weddings. Thanks to the face that it is a covered outdoor event venue, you would not need to worry about the weather. You even have the option of choosing whether you want to hold a small-scale or large-scale events, because the space can accommodate up to 150 people. Additionally, it can accommodate a variety of seating arrangements, including Viking-style, theatre, and banquet. The advantage of holding your wedding here is that they also provide a variety of in-house amenities. Not only that, the Suria KLCC shopping centre is about a 3- minute drive away. Address: 8, Jalan Sejahtera, Kampung Datuk Keramat, 55000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur Tamarind Springs The best way to explain Tamarind Springs is that it is a quick getaway to recharge. There is no better place to have a magnificent outdoor wedding than this. It exudes an impression of Asian elegance since its design is inspired by traditional residences and is The Seavoy House. – INSTAGRAM/@THESEAVOYHOUSE oHere are seven outdoor wedding venues around Malaysia that are guaranteed to be memorable █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Jade Hills Resort Club. – ASK VENUE Bayswater KLCC. – BAYSWATERKLCC.MY Tamarind Springs. – WEDDING RESEARCH Villamay Shah Alam. – INSTAGRAM/@VILLAMAY_SHAHALAM Tropical Spice Garden. – WEDDING RESEARCH Floating Pavilion Kebun Mimpi, Gita Bayu. – WEDDING RESEARCH decorated with traditional artwork. Even though Kuala Lumpur is only a 20-minute drive away, the venue’s relatively secluded location makes you feel as though you are far away from the busy metropolis. Tamarind Springs is easily one of the most romantic locations for a wedding celebration, set within a lush rainforest. Address: Jalan 1, Taman Tun Abdul Razak, 68000 Ampang, Selangor Villamay Shah Alam If you want to have a ‘destination wedding’ without having to travel, you should consider Villamay Shah Alam. Once you get through the gates, it almost feels as though you are in Bali. This stunning hidden gem – a charming two-storey bungalow – is tucked away in a peaceful residential neighbourhood. The warm atmosphere and wooden décor evokes a pleasant, peaceful vacation spot as soon as you step inside. The location is ideal for an outside garden wedding because it is surrounded by lovely greenery and peaceful fish ponds. You can even arrange your wedding cake beside the balcony for a fantastic photo moment. Address: 22, Jalan Baiduri 7/1b, Section 7, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor Tropical Spice Garden Tropical Spice Garden has been named one of the greatest flower garden locations for a wedding in Malaysia. It contains more than 500 living samples of exotic plant life from all around the world, providing your visitors with something to marvel at throughout the ceremony. Your dream of having a wedding surrounded by flowers will definitely come true thanks to the lovely backdrop of lush surroundings. The Water Garden and the Bamboo Garden are two beautiful settings offered by the Tropical Spice Garden. The water garden is ideal for smaller, more private weddings where your guests may see you say your vows on a wooden platform amid beautiful greenery. The serene view of the pond and the dense forest cover will also be helpful. Meanwhile, The Bamboo Garden, which is located deep within the Tropical Spice Garden and can accommodate up to 100 guests, is a wonderful choice for larger gatherings. Address: Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Teluk Bahang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Floating Pavilion Kebun Mimpi, Gita Bayu The breathtaking Floating Pavilion Kebun Mimpi in Gita Bayu, Seri Kembangan is a great place to have your dream wedding. The main attraction of this place is that it consists of floating wooden platforms above a lake surrounded by beautiful flora. Gita Bayu is a special and welcoming community that provides calm and safe living so that you can enjoy the unadulterated beauty of nature. Dining Pavilion is a public restaurant that showcases themes that were inspired by Bali and Thailand. Lunch and supper options at the Gita Bayu clubhouse include both Western and Malaysian cuisine. There are 230 seats in the restaurant and 50 in the Floating Pavilion. Address: Jalan Bayu 2, Bukit Gita Bayu, 43300 Seri Kembangan, Selangor

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 S3 island for the ceremony, couples can also replicate the experience by holding their ceremony within the country, but at a popular holiday spot in another state. Mismatched bridesmaids dresses In recent years, this trend has grown even more popular. Bridesmaids are no longer required to wear the exact same dress, instead, they are allowed to wear different styles of dresses, as long as they are the same shade. However, it appears as though brides are giving even more freedom to their bridesmaids when it comes to choosing their dresses. We’ve been seeing growing numbers of weddings with bridesmaids wearing in various colours, with dresses of different lengths. How they present a show of unity is by wearing the same accessories, or by choosing dresses that follow a single theme, such as florals. Bridal growns And as for the bride herself, there are some new trends she should look out for. Asymmetrical necklines are in, which suits brides who are a little more fashion-conscious and looking to add a bit of drama to their dress. For those thinking of an embroidered gown, the trend has been leaning to large floral patterns, which look stunning on a long veil, or even on the skirt of the wedding dress. And if you’re a bride who wants to break away from boring white, why not try on a blue weddinggown? Blue dresses in all shades have become increasingly popular, and it fits the old wedding proverb: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” buffs, they may decide to walk down the aisle with a favourite film’s theme song playing in the background or include cosplayers in their ceremony. The possibilities are endless. And it will result in an experience that both the couple and their guests will remember for the rest of their lives. Taking your own photos There has also been a trend of couples giving out disposable cameras for wedding guests to snap their own photos. This works best for smaller wedding parties to add to the intimate feel of the day. The cameras can be collected afterwards and the best photographs will make it into the couples’ wedding album. Destination weddings are back One direct result of the pandemic is that it revived the desire for destination weddings. Like shoppers looking to treat themselves with some revenge spending, couples with a little bit extra saved up are booking themselves and their wedding party trips to scenic locations. While for most people this usually involves getting out a passport and flying off to a foreign city or an exotic /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME WEDDINGS are an occasion to be treasured, and offers an opportunity for the couple’s personalities to shine. With the pandemic and its accompanying restrictions now a thing of the past, couples are embracing more lavish and meaningful ceremonies, and a quick examination of wedding trends for the year ahead confirms this. While smaller, minimalist ceremonies are still a favourite, more couples are willing to splash out for some opulent décor, or to arrange for a destination wedding. And there are some distinct new trends when it comes to the outfits chosen for the big day. If you’re planning your own wedding ceremony this year and are looking for some inspiration, here are some suggestions for you. Afternoon weddings In the past, weddings would be held in the morning, and another gathering would take place in the evening, where the bride and groom would be celebrated by their guests over dinner, but there has been a growing shift towards mid-day wedding meals. Not only does this shorten time spent organising the activities, but it also allows the party to wrap up earlier, and gives the couple plenty of time to rest in the evening. Candid photographs Gone are the days of stilted, organised group or couple shots, and artificial filters. More couples are gravitating towards wedding photographers who can capture the magic that takes place behind the scenes, and deliver more naturallooking shots that celebrate minor imperfections. Whether it’s the younger wedding guests making funny faces for the camera, or the bride and groom sharing a private joke when no one is looking; all these intimate moments are part of the celebration, and the bride and groom can look back fondly upon these images. Colour and themes Couples are increasingly looking to showcase their interests in their wedding ceremonies, and one way is by having a themed wedding. A couple who support a particular football club will decorate their wedding venue with the team’s colours or logo; or if they are movie (right) Make your wedding day a truly special one by taking pointers from some key trends. – PINTEREST oLooking to stay on top of the latest trends for your upcoming wedding? Here are some suggestions for you (left) More candid wedding photos allow the essence of the day to shine through. – PINTEREST (right) Destination weddings are making a comeback. – PINTEREST (left) Expect a lot more colour when it comes to bridesmaids’ dresses. – PINTEREST Brides can look to trends such as large, embroidered florals, asymmetrical necklines and shades of blue. – ELIE SAAB/ ANNE BARGE/NADIA MANJAREZ STUDIO █ BYANANSA JACOB

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 S4 WEDDING photography is an art that requires a great deal of skill and creativity. In Malaysia, there are many talented wedding photographers whose work you can view on Instagram, before you decide to hire them. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the best. Well, this list might be able to help you narrow down your search. Selected based on their creative vision, attention to detail, professionalism and stunning portfolio, these wonderful photographers have developed a unique style, and have a keen eye for capturing the beauty and emotion of weddings. Therefore, whether you’re searching for a photographer who can produce romantic and dreamy images, or someone who focuses on dramatic and artistic portraits, these professionals can provide the ideal pictures to preserve your wedding day. Without further ado, let’s explore some of Instagram’s top Malaysian wedding photographers for 2023. JENNY SUN Jenny Sun has been involved in the wedding photography industry since 2006, along with her team of photographers. They have gained a reputation for capturing memorable images of pre-wedding and wedding ceremonies for both local and international couples and families. Although primarily based in Kuala Lumpur and Sydney, Jenny has travelled to various destinations worldwide to capture those unique moments of love for her clients. Her photography is known for its romantic aesthetics and the way she uses the golden hour to create magical shots. Her work has also been featured on various international wedding editorial websites, highlighting her skills and talents as a photographer. Instagram: @jennysun AVICENNA STUDIO Avicenna Studio is a renowned wedding photography and cinematography team based in Malaysia. They specialise in capturing weddings’ beauty and emotion, creating stunning visual stories that tell a couple’s unique love story. Been in the industry since 2005, their team is made up of talented and experienced photographers and cinematographers who have worked on countless weddings in Malaysia and also around the world. Avicenna Studio’s impressive portfolio showcases their ability to create stunning visuals in a variety of settings, from traditional Malay weddings to modern Chinese weddings. Instagram: @avicennastudio LOUIS GAN Louis Gan, a member of the MunKeat Studio team, offers a photography aesthetic that is simultaneously rustic, clean, and captivating all at once. His impressive portfolio highlights his talent and originality, showcasing a variety of weddings from various cultures. As a member of the MunKeat Studio team, Louis Gan offers a photography aesthetic that is simultaneously rustic, clean, and captivating. Anyone who wants to take an closer look at Louis’ work should definitely follow his Instagram account which showcases his unique style and vision with breathtaking images. Every photograph appears to be alive, and his subjects are truly remarkable due to his use of perfect filters and impeccable ISO techniques. Instagram: @louis_gan (left) Jenny’s Instagram feed also displays her impressive portfolio and behind-thescenes photos. – JENNY SUN PHOTOGRAPHY oWe take to Instagram to check out the portfolios of some of Malaysia’s top wedding photographers █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL Louis Gan’s photos showcase his unique style and breathtaking images. – LOUIS_GAN (right) Dhivager’s photography style is natural, romantic, and cinematic, with a focus on capturing candid moments and emotions. – DHIVAGER (above) Ameir Fikri specialises in candid, but meaningful images. – AMEIRFIKRI DHIVAGER RATHAKRISHNAN Dhivager Rathakrishnan is one of the most popular local wedding photographers. He is wellknown for his ability to capture the beauty and emotion of weddings, as well as to create stunning images that reflect elegance and aesthetic. Aside from his work as a photographer, Dhivager also offers videography services for weddings and events, dedicated to providing his clients with the highest level of service and professionalism, and has earned a reputation as one of the best wedding photographers in Malaysia. Instagram: @dhivager AMEIR FIKRI Ameir Fikri, a Malaysian wedding photographer, captures wedding photos with the idea of two people who are passionate, loving, and have strong desires to be forever as one. He acknowledges that most of them are candid and that his style tends toward documentary. He also prefers to let things develop naturally before photographing them, to capture their authenticity and emotional content. Ameir was named one of Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography 2019 for Malaysia, as well as one of the finalists of the 2020 International Wedding Photographer of the Year Awards. Instagram: @ameirfikri ADAM ONG Adam Ong’s keen sense of photography produces stunning images that feature bold, intense hues while retaining a soft, dreamlike quality. His portfolio is particularly appealing to those who appreciate black-and-white photography. Adam Ong is a talented and creative wedding photographer who is known for his dramatic and dreamy style of photography. He has a strong eye for hue and composition, and his portfolio is particularly appealing to those who appreciate black-and-white photography. Adam’s bubbly personality also helps couples feel at ease during their shoots, resulting in beautiful, personalised images that capture the essence of their love story. Visit his Instagram feed for a visual delight, and a showcasing of his unique vision and passion for his craft. Instagram: @adamong Adam Ong has a strong eye for hue and composition. – ADAMONG

Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 S5 Louis Gan’s photos showcase his unique style and breathtaking images. – LOUIS_GAN (above) Ameir Fikri specialises in candid, but meaningful images. – AMEIRFIKRI NO MATTER where their journey through life takes them, a couple will always remember the moment of their proposal. One of the most important times in your life is when you ask your spouse to marry you. Even if you think you may have the right idea, you definitely want to make sure that it is impressive and memorable. Read on and take a look at some of these suggestions. You might also want to give it some of your own flair to truly make your proposal interesting and unique. Romantic movie night Proposing in your house is probably one of the easiest methods. It does not need not be complicated; it could be something as straightforward as arranging for the two of you to sit on a comfy couch with snacks to watch one of your favourite series. Surprise your beloved with a proposal while the movie’s closing credits roll. You may use a few sentences or a memorable statement from the movie you are watching. A flash mob proposal These impromptu dancing performances are still a fairly common spectacular expression of love. For someone who enjoys being the focus of attention, they can make a wonderful proposal idea. Make sure to hire a good team to perform because you don’t want to make a fool out of yourself when dancing in public. Consider include her family and friends, in addition to hiring dancers. A walk down memory lane This could be the greatest wedding proposal concept if you happen to be one of those individuals who likes reminiscing about the past. Put together a box full of your romantic memories from your relationship journey,= in the form of a timeline. Each photo can have a comment attached to it so that your beloved can remember your time together. You can ask them to marry you once they are lost in the joy of nostalgia. Plan a romantic picnic Another wonderful proposal idea is to go on a lovely romantic picnic. You can go the traditional route and fill up a basket with all of your favourite dishes (and maybe a lovely bottle of champagne, if you wish). A picnic proposal provides for some wonderful images and even better memories, whether it takes place in a beautiful, wide field or at a park. Make another moment worth capturing. – PINTEREST oCreate a perfect marriage proposal that your partner will remember forever █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Pick your favourite song and dance it out. – CBS NEWS Pick a picturesque location with a great view. – PINTEREST Give your partner a proposal that they will remember. – PINTEREST Additional decorations like love-shaped cushions, framed pictures, and scattered rose petals may make the picnic really romantic. Capture the moment in a photo booth Take your significant other out on a date to a location with an instant photo booth. Propose when you are in the photo booth so you have a strip of pictures taken at the precise moment. Prior to the big moment, make sure to test the photo booth’s timing! Getting family involved If you want to make your proposal particular intimate, you might want to consider including your loved one’s family members. Planning a proposal with friends and family is a wonderful way to make the evening more memorable, especially if spending time with others is important to you and your spouse. Plan a private dinner gathering with their family, and have everyone pull out a “will you marry me card?” This is a wonderful way for them to take part, and it will also make your partner feel special because of the participation of their family members. At a concert If you and your partner enjoy attending concerts together or have a favourite live music act, this would be another brilliant option. And it doesn’t have to be too complicated. If arranging something with the concert organisers is out of the question, try to pop the question during an interval. You can also propose while your favourite song is playing. Luxury proposal If you have the money, you should definitely try one of the fancier proposal ideas. Arrange for the two of you to go on a holiday to a dream destination and propose in awe-inspiring surroundings. Bonus points if it’s a legendary ‘romantic city’. Or, you could take them to a high-end restaurant for a gourmet meal, and then drop the question. Surprise them during a photo Ask someone to snap a photo of the two of you at a special location, whether it’s a park, rooftop bar, or a beach. Instead of posing, take out a ring to catch your partner’s response in real-time. Even better if you ask the stranger snapping the picture to record a video instead, but keep the reason for the video a secret. First date spot Consider making your proposal near the spot where you went on your first date if you’re looking to ‘come full circle’ with your relationship. Taking your significant other back to the starting point of your relationship, before asking them to join you on yet another journey, is one of the more traditional marriage proposal ideas. The ‘starting point’ you choose should be related to important moments in your relationship, such as the first date, your love declaration, or the moment you realised you wanted to spend the rest of your life together. Marriage proposal ideas

WHEN it comes to companies that produce performance machines, there’s always a model that works as the breadwinner. For many years the breadwinner for Ducati was the Monster, the bike that is credited for saving Ducati from financial ruin in the 1990s. However, over the years, the Monster has become faster and more sophisticated, making it quite daunting for anyone looking to hop onto a Ducati for the first time. That left a void in the Ducati model line-up. New riders simply did not have a Ducati friendly enough for them. But that void did not last very long as Ducati was quick to fill it with a new entry level model – the Scrambler Ducati. Introduced in 2015, the Scrambler Ducati model was a revival of sorts of a Ducati from the 1960s. Though very different from the Ducati’s we know and love, the Scrambler Ducati appealed to a different breed of people. Those that wanted a Ducati but found that the usual models were a little too “hardcore”. And it’s a formula that worked well. Ducati went on to sell over 100,000 Scramblers around the world. And interestingly, over 20% of people that bought a Scrambler were new to the Ducati world. Now though, Ducati has introduced a near allnew Scrambler that features three distinct models – Icon, Full Throttle and NightShift – and we got to ride The affable affable Duke New Scrambler Ducati redefines the meaning of fast friendly machine SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 803cc, L-Twin, Desmodromic, 2 valves per cylinder, air-cooled Gearbox: 6-speed, wet multiplate clutch Power: 73hp @ 8250rpm Torque: 65.2Nm @ 7000rpm Front Suspension: Kayaba 41mm fork with 150mm travel Rear Suspension: Kayaba rear shock adjustable with 150mm travel Front Brakes: 330mm disc, 4- piston calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS Rear Brakes: 245mm, 1-piston floating caliper with Bosch Cornering ABS Price: To be confirmed Customisable looks, friendly nature. Small, not for experienced riders. ON FRIDAY APRIL 14, 2023 ► Contributing Editor: KESHY DHILLON / [email protected] ► Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 / +6012-580 3470 ► To advertise email: [email protected] █ KESHY DHILLON New riders will appreciate the friendly character of the new Scrambler Ducati. The colour of the new Scrambler is interchangeable, you just need to buy the panels and change them within 30 minutes.

the Icon recently in Spain. New design! Only 30% of parts from the old model have been carried over to the new Scrambler, and this means that the new Scrambler is almost completely different from the old. You may be hard done to tell the difference from the design alone, but there are some key giveaways – such as that dominant blacked out X on the LED headlight which is the logo for the Scrambler brand. Scrambler fans will also notice the complete omission of the clutch cable that loops over the handlebars and disappears into the body of the bike. A seemingly messy design but one that was a nod to the original Scrambler from 1962. We prefer the clean, sleek look of the cockpit of the new Scrambler though. The coloured 4.3-inch TFT screen is a muchwelcomed addition but takes about four seconds to start up after you turn the key, which we find to be too slow. Why would anyone want to wait four seconds for the screen to start up? Then there’s the design of the new exhaust. It loops down from the extractors and around the side of the engine then seemingly disappears into the engine bay only to come back out again at the bottom of the bike and finishes off with a short exhaust can. It seems like a visual illusion where the exhaust seems to be hugging the engine and then simply disappearing into the chassis. The petrol tank too has been redesigned but what is more significant here is the fact the coloured covers are interchangeable along with the fenders and other coloured details on the headlamp. This means you will be able to completely interchange the colour of the Scrambler, giving it a level of customisation unseen in any other bike. The technology This is where the new Scrambler is completely unrecognisable when compared to the previous generation models. Even though it may be powered by the same Desmodue engine as before (producing the same amount of power rated at 73hp and 65.2Nm of torque), but thanks to some advancements, such as a lighter gearbox cover and bearings, the engine is an impressive 2.5kg lighter than before. This contributes to a total weight saving of 4kg. Besides the engine, the new split trellis frame as well as the new swingarm also contributes to the overall weight reduction of the bike. And this may not be good news for those who prefer a cable to connect their right wrist directly to the throttle valves, but for the first time ever the Scrambler Ducati comes with Ride by Wire electronic throttle management. This means that the Scrambler now has an electronic brain that manages everything from power input and output, and even allows the addition of riding modes, though the Scrambler only has two – Road and Sport (Just for comparison, it’s distant cousin, the Desert X has six modes!). But that’s not all, the new Scrambler also features a traction control system and cornering ABS, giving the rider a higher level of confidence, especially considering the fact that the Scrambler comes with Pirelli MT 60 knobby tyres that seem better suited to the dirt than the road. How does it ride? It would be too easy to simply sum it up as a bike that is easy to ride, but Ducati has gone to great lengths to give the Scrambler a docile character. The new clutch for example has eight-discs which makes it easier to manage with a higher biting point. This is great for new riders who are just starting off their journey as a Ducatisti. The seat is mounted low at 795mm, and if that is still too high, Ducati also has a 780mm option which we suspect will be offered as standard in Malaysia. AS for the vertically enhanced, there’s an 810mm option as well. The wide BMX like handlebars are mounted high which combined with the low seat height, gives it a comfortable sitting position. It also makes the Scrambler easy to manage around traffic and tight areas such as in parking lots. But when the road opens, the Ducati in the Scrambler takes over. It may not be explosive in nature, but it is still quick and the intake makes some intoxicating sounds swallowing air with the usually pops and bangs that follow when you roll off the throttle. It unquestionably sounds better than before. Though the power output may be the same, the ride modes give the engine a different tuning. This time there is a more linear torque delivery with a good midrange punch without having to downshift. This lets you shuffle along at lower speeds at 3rd or 4th gear, making the Scrambler perfectly suited to life in the urban environment. Should you buy it? If you have always wanted a Ducati but found them all to be too hot to handle, then this is the bike for you. If you are vertically challenged and need a bike that is great for the daily commute and for a short tour on the weekends, then this is the bike for you. The new Scrambler Ducati is like a big friendly Labrador that has all the muscle but without the bite. But if you are experienced and want something that will scare you or want something to take you to faraway places in comfort, look at the Panigale V4S or the Multistrada V4S. The switches are the same as the other Ducati models, which is not a bad thing. The 4.3mm coloured TFT is brilliant but takes four seconds to start up. Quality is the name of the game here, but time will tell if the colour fades under the Malaysian sun. The prominent X logo on the LED headlight dominates the design but does not hinder visibility. The brushed aluminium tank has been slightly redesigned and the coloured panels are now interchangeable. The brake lights and turn signals are LEDs as well. The front disc measures in at 330mm and features Cornering ABS now. 7 APRIL 14, 2023 The Kayaba rear shock offers 150mm of travel and is adjustable for pre-load. The exhaust has been totally re.designed and sounds better too.

THE all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 is now available in Malaysia, albeit in one variant for now. This variant comes with a mild hybrid (MHEV) powertrain and a 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) system with a recognisable body design that is unmistakably GLC. Exterior Codenamed “X254”, the new GLC 300 takes on a similar design as the C-Class – both have sweptback headlights with an angular inner side and a rounder elevated outer side. It features a sportier front end, split tail lights and light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 18 to 20 inches. The front also has a large mesh-covered Star grille and a chrome horizontal slat that houses the 3-pointed star logo in the middle. The rear end of the vehicle comes with chrome trim surrounding the exhaust finishers and a faux skidplate. The bridged design of the rear lights makes it look sleek and futuristic. Interior On the inside, the vehicle is luxurious yet sporty, with adjustable headrests for the front seats. Mercedes-Benz included a second, 11.9-inch touchscreen atop the centre stack and installed a 12.3-inch display screen as the instrument panel on the dashboard. A colour head-up display is also available as an option. The GLC 300 also comes with the Mercedes Me App which can link to Apple or Android devices. Also available are the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats. Latest MBUX The new GLC also gets the latest version of the MercedesBenz User Experience (MBUX) interface with optional Augmented Reality (AR). This AR set-up employs a forward-facing camera to record the surroundings in front of the SUV and the visual feed is displayed on the central infotainment tablet screen. Powertrain The GLC 300’s electrified powertrain has an integrated starter-generator (ISG) with 48- volt architecture. No matter what engine variant is used, the car only has a 9-speed automatic transmission giving seamless gear changes. The petrol engine part of the Mild Hybrid powertrain is a 2.0- litre4-cylinder turbocharged unit which produces 258hp (281hp with ISG boost). Maximum torque is 400Nm, with another 200Nm available with ISG boost. With this output, the 0-100kph is 6.2 seconds and the top speed is 240kph. Driving assistance The Driving Assistance package features advanced driver assistance systems like Active Distance Assist, which can now react to stationary vehicles on the road ahead while travelling at speeds of up to 100kph (up from 60kph), and Active Steering Assist, which now has lane detection. The GLC300 4Matic AMG Line is priced at RM429,888 without insurance and a standard 4-year warranty. 8 APRIL 14, 2023 Back to the future TWENTY YEARS AGO, Proton established a second factory in the Tanjung Malim area of Perak with a plan to develop a “Proton City”. This was to be an automotive zone with suppliers nearby to provide parts and systems directly to the factory. Parts of that original plan were realised but not to the grand plan envisaged as a production hub. But the idea has not been forgotten and a year ago, DRB-HICOM announced its intention to develop an Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in the Tanjung Malim area with the aim of becoming an industry hub for the Asean region. Besides supporting Proton, the AHTV is expected to attract businesses which are involved in new technologies and systems relevant to the global automotive industry. These would include electrification, Artificial Intelligence, autonomous technologies and advanced connectivity. Integrated ecosystem The AHTV will be developed with an integrated ecosystem that will be a catalyst to revitalise the domestic automotive sector in line with the direction of the National Automotive Policy 2020. Its aim is to bring Malaysia’s automotive industry to be on par, if not more advanced, than those in neighbouring countries. DRB-HICOM’s partner in Proton, Geely, is also keen to participate in this plan and the two companies have signed a Heads of Agreement (HOA) to confirm the next phase of collaboration. The HOA was signed at the Malaysia-China Business Forum held in conjunction with Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to China. Next-generation vehicle hub The HOA aims to initiate the development of the AHTV as Malaysia’s next-generation vehicle hub covering extensive automotive and mobility solutions value chain, from a fullyfledged high technology global R&D centre to a manufacturing cluster and supporting services and associated ecosystem. The focus of the HOA is the development of an integrated automotive city that will give birth to a hub for a New Energy Vehicle (NEV) industry. This city will be in the AHTV which will occupy an area of approximately 1,000 acres, with the possibility of further expansion to cater for future needs. Over the next 10 years, the AHTV is expected to attract some RM32 billion worth of investments, some of which will be from Proton Berhad. It will also receive direct and indirect benefits from Proton’s plan to fully relocate its manufacturing facilities to Tanjong Malim by 2026. Proton currently produces five models at its upgraded factory in the AHTV, and another two models in the original factory in Shah Alam. Nurture new talent The AHTV will also include a research-based university to nurture new talent and development in areas of new and emerging technologies for the industry and the automotive sector in general. Plans include an R&D facility that will provide carmakers with a tropicalised setting to test their vehicles. With the global trend shifting towards NEV, Geely’s role in the development of the AHTV is valuable, given the Chinese carmaker’s wide experience in this segment. Geely’s flagship brand, Geely Auto, has already launched several NEVs under its different brands over the past few years. The company has also invested in a range of battery technologies and has a dedicated new energy division which is focused on developing and producing NEVs. It plans to launch more than 30 NEV models across its brands by 2025. █ CHIPS YAP V2L allows EVs To Be mobile power banks GOING camping usually means leaving behind the conveniences that modern living has, much of which is powered by electricity. Of course, those who travel by a vehicle could bring along a portable generator or with some vehicles (like the latest Ford Ranger), there are heavy-duty 3-pin outlets to supply electricity for equipment and devices. In future, those who travel outdoors with electric vehicles will be able to use their EVs like “power banks” with a feature known as Vehicle-ToLoad (V2L). It’s slowly becoming a common feature in many of the latest EVs and is useful not only for camping but also at home. Power for a household The large amount of energy stored in the battery pack can be used to power appliances in the house, which would be useful when you have a power cut. For example, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 with V2L can power a TV, microwave oven, refrigerator and even a treadmill if you need to exercise while there’s a power supply failure in your area. In fact, EVs would also be useful for emergency work where rescuers have to go to areas which may have power supply cut due to earthquakes or other natural disasters. They can then draw electricity from their vehicles to power their equipment. Nissan proposed such an idea with its RE-LEAF concept a few years ago. With its fully charged 62 kWh battery pack, there should be enough electricity to power a household for up to 6 days. Twelve-year-old idea Using EVs to power external appliances is not exactly new though the “V2L” term has only come into use in recent years. However, as far back as 2011, when Japan was hit by a massive earthquake and tsunami, EV models like the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Nissan LEAF were used to provide electricity at locations where there was no supply. Which EVs have V2L? Technically, any EV should be able to have V2L and it is whether the carmaker wants to spend the extra money including the inverter. Like many new features and technologies, as costs go down, they will become more common as a standard feature. New Benz in town Geely to participate in development of Automotive Hi-Tech Valley █ TIMOTHY PRAKASH SHORT IN 2022, the Peugeot 2008 made its debut in the Malaysian market with refreshed looks and updated features. This second-generation crossover SUV is currently priced at RM133,388. To take it all up a notch now, Bermaz Auto has introduced a Special Edition 2008. Although the SUV is available in four colors, this SE package comes exclusively with the Orange Fusion and Pearl White exterior colors only. The package consists of black front, rear bumper and side bumper garnish, piano black rims, vehicle decals and SE badges. There have been no changes under the hood as it remains the same as the Peugeot “Allure” which features a 1.2, 3-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 130hp at 5,500rpm and 230Nm at 1,750rpm and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission which only sends power to the front wheels. The new 2008 comes with a SE accessories package that costs RM2,900 and a One-Year Peugeot Genuine Accessory Warranty. Special edition Peugeot

KLCI 1,434.22 STI 3,294.54 8.42 HANG SENG 20,344.48 34.62 SCI 3,318.36 74.27 NIKKEI 28,156.97 19.80 TSEC 15,804.76 KOSPI 2,561.66 S&P/ASX200 7,324.10 11.02 FRIDAY APRIL 14, 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 April 13, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) MYEG 32,418,900 87.5 +10.5 BSLCOR 86,959,900 5.0 UNCH HONGSE 75,929,600 13.0 UNCH JADEM 67,796,700 30.0 UNCH TOPGLO 56,636,000 115.0 +3.0 EXCHANGERATES APRIL 13, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.4690 4.3330 4.3380 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0070 2.8860 2.8630 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.3640 3.2650 3.2560 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3200 3.2300 3.2230 1 EURO 4.9210 4.7600 4.7210 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.7850 2.6810 2.6670 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.3640 3.2650 3.2560 1 STERLING POUND 5.5890 5.4110 5.3790 1 SWISS FRANC 4.9730 4.8560 4.8190 100 UAE DIRHAM 123.1000 116.6700 116.8600 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.2710 4.0050 3.8210 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 65.4500 62.6400 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 57.5400 54.6500 54.6300 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.5400 5.2000 5.0100 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0311 0.0281 0.0232 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3630 3.2560 3.2340 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.5800 1.4800 1.2800 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.2100 7.7300 7.5800 100 QATAR RIYAL 123.3200 117.0700 117.5500 100 SAUDI RIYAL 120.4200 114.3200 114.4700 100 SOUTH AFRICA RAND 25.1600 22.7200 22.5600 100 THAI BAHT 13.6800 12.1200 11.7200 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY April 13, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,571.40 +15.46 FBMKLCI 1,434.22 -0.52 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 579.72 -0.31 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 175.49 +0.28 CONSTRUCTION 164.60 -0.10 FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,787.20 +2.36 ENERGY 886.32 +3.76 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 601.95 -5.43 HEALTH CARE 1,866.78 +3.92 TRANSPORTATION 932.54 -3.68 PROPERTY 707.45 +0.24 PLANTATION 6,877.34 +19.37 FBMSHA 10,940.20 +37.31 FBMACE 5,369.19 +60.29 TECHNOLOGY 63.06 +0.48 TURNOVER VALUE 3.070 BIL RM2.034 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS April 13, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM BLDPLNT 8,000 11.00 +0.98 DIN045801028 280 103.90 +0.65 NESTLE 22,300 136.90 +0.50 MPI 25,900 29.30 +0.42 CHINHIN 3,979,700 4.79 +0.36 5 TOP LOSERS April 13, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HSI-CLS 8,000 1.78 -0.29 AMTEL 19,266,600 0.70 -0.24 KLK 378,100 21.66 -0.24 F&N 228,400 27.00 -0.20 TENCENT-C30 40,000 0.34 -0.185 MIGHT launches Coldgrow CGR energy system KUALA LUMPUR: The Coldgrow CGR energy system, the on-site application of the liquified natural gas (LNG) based technology, was launched yesterday at the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT) Partnership Hub in Cyberjaya by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang. The project is a collaborative effort between MIGHT and Wasave Sdn Bhd, and marks a significant milestone in MIGHT’s serious intent to address and provide alternative solutions to contemporary energy efficiency, climate change, food security and smart cities challenges. MIGHT’s president and CEO Datuk Dr Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman said in a statement yesterday that the collaboration demonstrates the importance of a conducive ecosystem to translate cutting-edge technology into commercial success. “The Coldgrow CGR system will be Malaysia’s first operational showcase to be accessible to local and foreign industry players. “MIGHT is fully committed in supporting the national aspiration to achieve net zero carbon emission by 2050. Our decarbonisation efforts are anchored on four levers: sustainable and energy-efficient technologies, a partnership between stakeholders, industry replicability and alignment with ESG,” he said. The Coldgrow CGR energy system is set to provide a constant 150RT cooling with up to 75% reduction in carbon emission. The regasification and cold recovery process will fulfil the chilled water required to meet MIGHT’s cooling needs at a lower energy cost as MIGHT’s facility has until the present, been reliant on the 25-year-old district cooling service. Wasave co-founder, Munira Shahrul Baharin said the most attractive element of the Coldgrow technology is its modularity and versatility, which allows it to be deployed across various sectors and facilities of the industry. This includes data centres, electrical and electronics, telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, cold room, storage warehouses as well as low temperate greenhouses. Earlier at the launch, Chang commended MIGHT’s efforts in aligning with the nation’s aspiration towards net zero 2050 and its active nurturing of start-ups in emerging technology areas. This is especially crucial in key areas such as energy efficiency technology, developing modular energy efficiency concepts, harnessing alternative energy possibilities and creating complementary LNG energy options for new and existing renewable energy users. MIGHT is a market-driven technological partnership think-tank with emphasis on market intelligence initiatives using foresight practices and methodology to identify technology and business opportunities. – Bernama More affordable Rahmah Takaful in the works KUALA LUMPUR: Takaful players are engaging with the government to develop a more affordable Rahmah Takaful programme for the B40 and M40 income groups, gig workers and the service sector workers, said the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA). MTA CEO Mohd Radzuan Mohamed said that the country’s takaful players are ready to assist the government’s plan to introduce the Rahmah Insurance initiative. “We had a series of engagements with the ministry to share our expertise and offerings, with the aim of helping them establish a sustainable Rahmah Takaful programme for these target markets,” he told reporters during a press conference after Takaful industry 2022 performance briefing and Iftar Jamaie on Wednesday. The Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living is planning to introduce the Rahmah Insurance initiative to provide a more affordable insurance protection for the public. “This is where the ministry is actually looking at, how takaful players can support these segments if they are involved in unfortunate events like an accident,” said Mohd Radzuan. Last year, MTA said that Malaysia’s takaful industry recorded 18% growth in 2022 and secured 23% market share of net contributions on the back of the country’s post-pandemic recovery phase. Its chairman Elmie Aman Najas said the Takaful Industry Performance 2022 media briefing with Elmie (left) and Mohd Radzuan. oIndustry players developing scheme for B40, M40 income groups, and workers in service and gig sectors █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] 0.52 8.82 128.21 growth was driven by increasing demand for Islamic finance products and the acceptance of takaful products as preferred protection schemes. “The industry’s growth can be attributed to several factors including the growing popularity of takaful products among consumers, the introduction of new innovative products, and the adoption of digital technologies to enhance service delivery,” he commented. The Family Takaful achieved a penetration rate of 20.1% in 2022 as compared to 18.6% in the previous year based on the number of certificates inforce against the total Malaysian population. The industry has also made significant strides in digital transformation, with many players offering online platforms for consumers to participate and takaful operators to manage takaful products. Elmie said: “We are witnessing a strong demand for takaful products, as more and more Malaysians recognise the importance of protecting themselves and their families against financial risks. The number of certificates inforce for 2022 has increased to 6.63 million certificates, compared to 6.07 million in 2021.” The Family Takaful market’s annual Takaful contributions of new businesses recorded a 1.9% decrease to RM2.19 billion compared to RM2.23 billion in 2021. Agency and Bancatakaful were the main channels for new business total contribution at 22% and 44% respectively. “In relation to agency business, the pandemic has had a significant impact on the growth rate of new agent recruitment. In 2022, MTA registered 39,027 new agents. The indication of the continued strong recruitment trend in 2021, which recorded a higher number than those seen in the prepandemic before 2019, served as an important indicator of the industry’s continued strength as we transitioned from post-pandemic to endemic phase in our economy,” said Elmie. Other industry sectors similarly showed growth. The general takaful business registered gross direct contributions of RM4.64 billion, with the motor takaful business contributing RM3.07 billion, and the fire takaful business with RM0.84 billion. For 2022, the takaful industry paid out a total of RM7.02 billion in net claims, an increase of 25.9% from the previous year RM5.58 billion. Participation 49.5 25.6 24.9 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 981.8 489.5 563.2 2034.5 Sold RM m 1030.5 553.0 451.0 2034.5 Net RM m -48.7 -63.5 112.2 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) 13/04/2023

10 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 SUNBIZ RE industry shines bright with govt support, funding TANJUNG MALIM: The government is committed to helping the development and growth of the renewable energy (RE) industry in this country, said Deputy Finance Minister I Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan. He said among the assistance given was the injection of RM5 billion in funds to support sustainable development projects. “The government has also provided RM2 billion in Budget 2023 to support the green and sustainable energy sector, including financing projects or startups that use green technology or low-carbon practices,” he said during his working visit to the Sungai Slim Hydro Power Station in Sungai Slim yesterday. Ahmad said in addition, the Green Technology Financing Scheme will be implemented with an increase in allocation totalling RM3 billion until 2025 and the scope of financing has been oAllocation of RM5b for sustainable development projects and RM2b in Budget 2023 to support green energy sector expanded to more sustainable projects, such as small hydro power stations and EV (electric vehicles). He said the government recognises development involving net zero carbon or net-zero emissions by 2050 and hopes for more participation from the private sector. “This includes participation from G Capital Bhd (GCAP) and PHREC (Perak Hydro Renewable Energy Corporation Sdn Bhd). We know that this resource is a resource that does not involve raw materials that fluctuate (uncertainty) in price and does not involve increased costs,” he said. GCAP through PHREC is the concession holder in Perak for 49 rivers for the construction of small hydroelectric power plants with a total estimated capacity of 286.1 Megawatt (MW), in addition to several small hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of 26 MW to be developed in Pahang. With an investment of RM4.5 billion, GCAP in a statement informed that the hydroelectric station project with a capacity of 300 MW is expected to generate income of at least RM12 billion from the date of commercial operation. According to GCAP to date, there are three small hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of 29 MW in Perak that are already in operation and the electricity produced is channeled to Tenaga Nasional Bhd through a renewable energy purchase agreement that has been signed. “Now, the mission of the concession is to develop the remaining hydroelectric power plants with a capacity of 257.1 MW in Perak and 26 MW of hydroelectric power in Pahang. “A total of 110 MW Feed-in-Tariff Incentive (FiT) has been obtained for approval (to sell to the national grid) and the remaining 118.2 MW have been planned with a pre-qualification study and a complete power system, ready for bidding of the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (Seda) under the FiT scheme,” according to the statement. The key role of Seda is to administer and manage the implementation of the feed-in tariff mechanism which is mandated under the Renewable Energy Act 2011 [Act 725]. – Bernama CIMB meets or exceeds all FY22 financial targets, on track to realise Forward23+ goals KUALA LUMPUR: CIMB Group Holdings Bhd held its 66th annual general meeting (AGM) with shareholders yesterday, where all 10 ordinary resolutions tabled at the AGM were passed, and the audited financial statements for the financial year ended Dec 31, 2022 (FY22) were duly received. The meeting was chaired by Datuk Mohd Nasir Ahmad, chairman of CIMB Group, with the board of directors and Datuk Abdul Rahman Ahmad, CEO of CIMB Group, in attendance. As announced previously, CIMB Group saw continued positive momentum in FY22, supported by strong underlying performance across all business segments as well as its key markets of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. The encouraging year-on-year performance was contributed by robust growth in operating income driven by NIM expansion and above market loan growth, stringent cost management and lower provisions. Accordingly, the group met or exceeded all financial profitability targets for FY22, including annualised return on average equity, cost-to-income ratio (CIR) and credit cost/provisions. These included achieving the lowest recorded CIR of 46.5% in FY22 from 48.6% in FY21. Additionally, CIMB Group remains well-capitalised sustaining its common equity tier 1 ratio of 14.5% as at Dec 22, demonstrating the group’s continued capital strength and resilience. The group declared a total annual dividend of 26 sen per share or RM2.75 billion for FY22, which translates to a payout ratio of 50.5% based on the reported core net profit, in line with the group’s dividend policy. Speaking at the AGM, Nasir said, “On behalf of the board, I would like to extend my profound appreciation to all our stakeholders for their Nasir (left) with Abdul Rahman at the AGM yesterday. continued trust and association with us over another year of recovery and progression. 2022 was the year where economies largely rebounded post Covid-19 but was also affected by rising inflation caused by supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions leading to sharp rise in interest rates. “Amidst this economic backdrop, we remained focused on our purpose of advancing customers and society. We continued to recalibrate our strategies with a commitment to increase shareholder value and ensure our customers continue to have seamless access to finance and financing solutions and keeping them resilient on their road to recovery.” “As a purpose-driven financial intermediary, we see sustainability continues to be a key priority for CIMB. During the year, we doubled our sustainable finance target from RM30 billion to RM60 billion by 2024 under our green, social, sustainable impact products & services framework, after achieving the initial target two years ahead of schedule. In addition, we invested RM34.4 million into communities across Asean through various programmes, as part of our commitment to invest RM150 million into community initiatives over five years. “The board will continue to provide oversight and guidance to ensure the group achieves its Forward23+ strategic plan to deliver sustainable financial returns whilst creating shared value for all our stakeholders,” Nasir added. M’sian economy off to slow start in first-quarter 2023, says SERC KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian economy is off to a slow start in the first quarter of 2023 due to weakening exports and normalisation of domestic demand, said Socio Economic Research Centre (SERC) executive director Lee Heng Guie. Despite this, he said, the Malaysian economy is still expected to grow this year, albeit at a slower pace compared with last year with an estimated growth rate of 4.1%. “After staging a strong recovery growth of 8.7% in 2022 post the Covid-19 pandemic, the Malaysian economy is expected to normalise to an estimated 4.1% in 2023 on a more sustainable pace of private consumption, which made up 60.2% of total GDP in 2022. “Exports, which had been a strong contributor to the economy, have displayed slowing momentum since late 2022,” he said at SERC’s media briefing and press conference on Malaysia’s quarterly economy tracker (JanuaryMarch 2023) yesterday. In addition, SERC expects Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to increase the overnight policy rate to 3% this year to address inflation. BNM has stated that any adjustment to the degree of accommodation will take into consideration the evolving global and domestic conditions and their implications on the overall outlook of domestic inflation and growth. Lee said that Malaysia’s most recent economic data indicates a sluggish beginning to 2023 with the leading index continuing to decline in January 2023, marking three consecutive months of contraction. The industrial production index (IPI) registered a low single-digit growth of 3.6% year-on-year (y-o-y) in February and 1.8% in January from 4% in Q4 ‘22 and 12.2% in Q3’22, due to dissipating overseas demand besides slower industrial output was weighed down by slower growth in the manufacturing sector (3% in Jan-Feb 2023 vs. 4% in Q4’22 and 13.4% in Q3’22) and a decline in the electricity sector. Meanwhile, manufacturing sales reported double-digit growth of 10.3% yo-y in February from 6.5% in January and 8.8% in December 2022 and that exportoriented industries, which accounted for 71.1% of total sales, expanded by 10% in February and 6.9% in January, while domestic-oriented industries (28.9% of total sales) accelerated by 11% in February and 5.6% in January. “China’s reopening will help to sustain stronger domestic tourism-related spending such as retailing, restaurants and accommodation,” Lee commented. Exports continued to pace at a much slower growth of 5.4% y-o-y in Jan-Feb compared to 11.8% in Q4’22. In addition, the banking sector’s outstanding loan that grew at a slightly more moderate pace at 5.2% y-o-y in February from 5.7% in December 2022, supported by the household sector (5.7%), while loans demand of business and others increased by 4.4%. █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] Rakuten expects Pavilion REIT’s distributable income to rebound strongly on China reopening KUALA LUMPUR: Rakuten Trade sees Pavilion Real Estate Investment Trust’s (Pavilion REIT) distributable income rebounding strongly with the reopening of China’s borders and its economy and the return of foreign tourists to Malaysia. The brokerage also expects the acquisition of Pavilion Bukit Jalil to have a positive contribution to Pavilion REIT’s income distribution in the financial year 2023 (FY23) and more significantly in FY24, it said in a note yesterday. “We forecast Pavilion REIT to register a distributable income of RM302.8 million and RM378.4 million for FY23 and FY24 respectively. “Based on a payout ratio of 100%, we expect the group to distribute 8.0 and 8.7 sen for FY23 and FY24, translating into yields of 6.1 and 6.6% respectively,” the brokerage said. Rakuten Trade noted that Pavilion Mall Kuala Lumpur is the largest contributor to Pavilion REIT, which has a net lettable area of 1.35 million sq ft, contributing 67% and 87% of revenue and net property income, respectively. “Pavilion Mall KL’s occupancy rate has gradually improved to 92% in the latest quarterly report. “We expect occupancy to reach the pre-pandemic level of 98-99% by the second half of 2023 supported by the return of foreign tourists, particularly from China,” it said. Rakuten Trade has a “buy” call on Pavilion REIT with a target price of RM1.60 based on a target yield of 5.5% over FY24 distribution. – Bernama

11 * SUNBIZ @thesundaily theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Investment Bank Bhd sees Malaysia as an emerging data centre (DC) hub in Asia, with “accelerated capacity plantup and hyper scalers making landfall”, coupled with supportive pro-business policies to attract and retain DC investors. Malaysia’s large pool of knowledge and skilled workers portends a significant competitive advantage in catalysing greater foreign direct investments, which is crucial for the DC space, it added. “The unity government under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is committed to further accelerate digital adoption in the country, which augurs well for the domestic DC industry,” the research house said in a note. It pointed out that the positive outlook of the industry was also supported by the New Investment Policy unveiled by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) in October 2022, in which the government looks to boost high value job opportunities. “Aside from Amazon Web Services and Microsoft, which have committed to set up cloud regions in the country, the likes of global DC names such as GDS, Equinix, and Yondr Group are pouring in significant capital to construct their maiden facilities in the country,” it noted. “Investment ideas in the DC fold naturally gravitate towards the traditional fixed line telcos, given that DCs were lynchpin assets for enterprise-related services and solutions that complement the vast submarine cable assets owned. “While there are no pure-play DC companies on Bursa Malaysia, a play on the DC theme should also include constructionrelated and services-type companies that form part of the broader value chain,” it continued. The research house highlighted three stocks, namely Telekom Malaysia Bhd (target price: RM6.20, Time dotcom (TP: RM5.60) and Sunway Construction Group Bhd (RM2.07) that are believed to be the core beneficiaries of the DC boom. As for the Asean region, the research house said demand for hyper-scale DC facilities is being fuelled by strong investments and upgrades to new technologies and the transition to 5G networks. “Asean has become a major hotspot for DCs, thanks to accelerated digitalisation, accommodative policies, and the lower cost of land and energy, with content and over-thetop providers focusing on the region’s population demographics and appetite for social media,” it noted. Consequently, it said hyper scalers were compelled to move closer to end-users to reduce latency with the setting up of new cloud regions. – Bernama Gentari, Lotus Cars team up to explore deployment of green mobility infrastructure KUALA LUMPUR: Clean energy solutions provider Gentari Sdn Bhd via wholly owned subsidiary Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lotus Cars Malaysia to explore collaborations in green mobility infrastructure deployment. The MoU signing, held during the launch of the Lotus Eletre here yesterday, saw Gentari represented by its chief green mobility officer, Shah Yang Razalli, while Lotus Cars Malaysia – the sole franchise holder of Lotus vehicles in Malaysia was represented by its general manager, Tengku Ezan Ley. Covering two years, the MoU will see Gentari partnering with LCM to explore collaborations in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at LCM’s facilities, as well as public areas, including EV charging packages for Lotus EV owners. Other potential collaborations targeted for exploration include the introduction of Zero Emission Vehicle Fleet solutions in Malaysia, renewable energy deployment at LCM’s facilities and a digital platform with LCM. Shah Yang said, “At Gentari, we are working with like-minded partners across all segments of transportation in driving towards sustainable mobility. Today, we are partnering with Lotus Cars Malaysia to make it easier for drivers of its high-performance cars to also reduce their carbon footprint with every kilometre travelled. This is part of our purpose in solving the world’s most pressing sustainable energy needs, to change how we live today, in securing a better future.” Meanwhile Tengku Ezan said, “This collaboration will allow us to better support our Lotus EV customers starting with the all-electric Eletre Hyper-SUV. Enhancing connectivity to Gentari’s fast-growing EV charging network will help increase convenience for our customers so they can effectively plan their trips and reduce range anxiety.” Malaysia seen as emerging data centre hub in Asia oLarge pool of knowledge workers and supportive policies attract investors, says RHB Investment Bank Infomina posts RM26.8m profit before tax for third quarter PETALING JAYA: Technology solutions provider Infomina Bhd yesterday reported revenue of RM109.7 million and profit before tax (PBT) of RM26.8 million for its third quarter ended Feb 28 (Q3’23). Revenue for the quarter was mainly contributed by the group’s technology infrastructure operations, maintenance, and support services segment, with RM87.28 million or 80% of total revenue. This segment mainly consists of revenue recognised from contracts for the provision of technology infrastructure solutions for financial services institutions and government agencies in the group’s key markets (Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines) and the region. For the nine months ended Feb 28, the group recorded revenue of RM193.7 million and PBT of RM39 million. Revenue for the period was mainly attributed to the group’s technology infrastructure operations, maintenance, and support services segment, which contributed RM144.5 million or 74.6% of total revenue. As at Feb 28, Infomina’s balance sheet remained robust, sporting a net cash position of RM74.4 million while the ratio stood at an impressive 1.5 times. Total debt amounted to RM2.4 million against shareholders’ funds of RM104.7 million. Commenting on the third-quarter and ninemonth results, Infomina managing director Yee Chee Meng said, “This is a fantastic set of results and a record for the group. “The significant growth in our revenue and earnings was driven by an increasingly strong performance from our technology infrastructure operations, maintenance, and support services segment from our contracts in the Philippines and Thailand. Looking ahead, Yee said Infomina’s performance will be driven by an outstanding order book of about RM500.2 million comprising a well-diversified portfolio of more than 60 active clients across multiple industries and geographical locations. Courts Malaysia brings F-Secure’s cybersecurity solution to consumers KUALA LUMPUR: Courts Malaysia is bringing Protect 360, a comprehensive cybersecurity solution powered by F-Secure that provides maximum protection against online threats, to consumers. Protect 360 offers a wide range of features, including antivirus and malware protection, firewall, parental controls, and is designed to compete with other security solutions in the market by offering a comprehensive suite of features that provide maximum all-in-one protection against online threats. Unlike other security solutions that focus on one aspect of cybersecurity, Protect 360 safeguards against a wide range of online threats and offers protection for online security, privacy, and identity – all in one app. F-Secure Corporation has more than 30 years of history in cybersecurity. Its regional director, G.U. Renukanand, said: “As cybercrime continues to pose a growing threat to individuals and businesses alike, it is more important than ever to implement robust cybersecurity measures. It was reported that cybersecurity threats in Malaysia are increasing both in frequency and severity with up to RM27 million of losses recorded in January and February this year alone.” This alarming statistic, he added underscores the urgent need for allencompassing solutions such as Protect 360, which not only provides comprehensive protection for multiple devices against ransomware and viruses, but also offers data breach and identity protection. Protect 360 is priced from RM59 for one device under the Lite Package up to RM309 for five devices under the Elite Package. Courts EZ-Payment customers are eligible to receive complimentary Elite Package for one year. “As the leading retailer in Malaysia, we understand the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age and the opportunity to tap into the country’s growing market of more than 95% internet users,” said Courts Malaysia CEO Harry Higashiura. “That’s why we have partnered with FSecure to bring Protect 360 to Malaysian consumers as we strive to create a safer digital environment and consumer experience, empowering individuals to take charge of their online security. We believe that the consumers will benefit greatly from the comprehensive protection that Protect 360 provides,” he added. Protect 360 was launched by Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Teo Nie Ching in Sepang recently in conjunction with #BeCyberSmart, a six-month nationwide campaign by Courts Malaysia and F-Secure in support of the National Anti-Scam Campaign 2023. Tealive, Milo join hands to give chocolate lovers an ‘extreme’ cocoa treat PETALING JAYA: Chocolate lovers are in for an “extreme cocoa” treat as Tealive, Southeast Asia’s leading lifestyle tea brand, pairs up with Malaysia’s top chocolate malt beverage, Milo. In a tie-up with Milo, Tealive now offers an exclusive range of “Coco Xtreme” drinks that will satisfy the cravings of every chocolate lover – delicious balance of Milo’s unique chocomalty flavour and Tealive’s Bang Bang or smoothies with toppings. In announcing this collaboration, Loob Holding Sdn Bhd founder and CEO Bryan Loo said this was yet another breakthrough for Tealive and fulfilling its brand promise of “Always More Than Tea”. “We’re happy that Tealive is now collaborating with Milo, Malaysia’s most-loved chocolate malt beverage, to offer a lifestyle drink that excites the palates of our customers,” he said. Nestlé Professional, Malaysia & Singapore, business executive officer Yit Woon Lai welcomed the collaboration as it gives Milo lovers a “Coco Xtreme” experience. She remarked that it was marvellous to infuse Milo into Tealive’s Bang Bang or smoothies with toppings. From left: Higashiura, Teo and Renukanand at the launch of Protect 360 recently.

12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 SUNBIZ /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME China exports rise in March, first time in six months oJump of 14.8% from a year ago a positive surprise but could be partly due to low base effect, says an economist BEIJING: China’s exports rose in March for the first time in six months, customs data showed yesterday, as the world’s secondlargest economy continued its recovery following the end of onerous coronavirus curbs late last year. The 14.8% surge in overseas shipments from a year ago marked the first since September, according to the General Administration of Customs, and will provide a boost to hopes for a lasting rebound. Beijing long maintained some of the world’s strictest Covid curbs, persisting with snap lockdowns and lengthy quarantines despite their increasingly dire economic consequences. The government abruptly ditched the restrictions in December, and a wave of cases afflicted the operations of many businesses for several weeks. Hong Kong woos mainland crypto companies Britain’s economy stalls as public sector worker strikes take toll LONDON: Britain’s economy stagnated in February as strikes by public workers hit output but a bounce in January was stronger than first thought, meaning a recession is a bit less likely to be brewing in early 2023, official data showed. Economic output was flat in monthon-month terms in February, against the consensus forecast for a 0.1% increase in a Reuters poll of economists. But the Office for National Statistics (ONS) revised up its estimate for January’s growth to 0.4% from 0.3% – meaning Britain is likely to avoid the first-quarter contraction that the Bank of England (BoE) predicted last month. The bigger picture remains weak. While sidestepping recession for the time being, Britain’s economy has stagnated over the last year. International Monetary Fund projections published this week showed Britain bottom of the world’s major economies in terms of expected economic growth in 2023, with a 0.3% contraction pencilled in, equivalent to a 0.7% fall on a per capita basis. Suren Thiru, economics director at accountancy body ICAEW, said recession fears would linger as higher taxes and borrowing costs offset the fall in inflation and government support for energy bills. “These figures suggest that the economy has lost momentum as sky-high inflation and strike action continue to drag on key drivers of UK gross domestic product, notably services and industrial production,” he said. Thiru said the BoE should end its run of interest rate hikes next month as raising rates would further weaken the country’s growth prospects. The upward revision to January means the economy would need to have shrunk by 0.6% in March for the first quarter as a whole to show a contraction. – Reuters Yesterday’s customs figures contrasted with a poll of analysts conducted by Bloomberg News, which predicted that exports would decline 7.1%. The sharp uptick was a “positive surprise”, said Zhiwei Zhang, president and chief economist at Pinpoint Asset Management. However, he added that the sharp rebound “may be partly due to a low base effect”, noting that Covid outbreaks in March last year forced many Chinese factories to shut down and restricted operations at the country’s ports. “The other factor behind the strong export growth may be the inventory and order cycles for exporters,” Zhang said in emailed HONG KONG: After years of bankers quitting Hong Kong amid a China security crackdown and tight Covid curbs, the city is rolling out the red carpet to a finance sector tarnished by events elsewhere in a bid to bolster its status as a finance centre – cryptocurrencies. While scandals and high-profile bankruptcies have prompted some governments to distance themselves from the cryptocurrency industry, Hong Kong is pulling out all the stops to court mainland China crypto companies to rebase in the city. Mainland China banned cryptocurrency trading in 2021. Top government officials, such as Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee, are touting their support and the city is scheduled to hold 100 crypto-related conferences and lavish parties through April. The Hong Kong government “is very serious about building an international virtual asset centre”, said Xiao Feng, chairman of Hong Kong crypto exchange HashKey, which saw 13,000 people attend the first day of its Hong Kong Web3 Festival, the biggest conference of the month, on Wednesday. HashKey received a licence to operate in Hong Kong last November, making it one of two licensed crypto exchanges in the city besides rival exchange OSL. To be sure, many remain sceptical on Hong Kong’s promise of a stable regulatory regime on cryptocurrencies. One crypto venture capitalist, who declined to be named citing the sensitivity of the matter, said that he remained worried as China’s crypto ban still looms large in the background. “If Hong Kong can suddenly say that it is crypto-friendly as if it’s a switch, that switch can be just as suddenly turned off should things get difficult,” he said. Still, at least 10 companies with Chinese founders including OKX, Bybit, Huobi have announced or are planning to announce their bid for licences in Hong Kong, according to the firms and media reports. – Reuters comments to AFP. While the torrent of Covid cases in December and January “likely depleted factories’ inventories”, they are now running at full capacity and have “caught up the cumulated orders from the past”, he added. Imports in March contracted 1.4%, a more moderate pace than in January and February. China’s year-on-year trade with the United States fell 17.4%, and dropped 10% with the European Union, yesterday’s figures showed. But there was a sharp 25.9% increase in trade with Russia as Moscow focuses on business with its giant neighbour after being hit with sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine. – AFP BHP wins over Oz Minerals shareholders for A$9.6b takeover SYDNEY: Top global miner BHP Group has won over Oz Minerals’ shareholders as expected to go ahead with a A$9.6 billion (RM28.4 billion) takeover of the Australian copper producer. Some 98.33% of votes cast by Oz Minerals were in favour of an offer of A$26.50 cash and a A$1.75 special dividend paid to Oz Minerals investors for each share they owned, after a shareholder meeting in Adelaide yesterday. The deal is the third largest in global mining in recent months after Glencore offered US$22.5 billion for Canada’s Teck Resources and gold miner Newmont landed a US$19.5 billion offer for Australia’s Newcrest this week. “This is a strong endorsement from OZ Minerals shareholders on the value they will receive under the scheme,” said BHP CEO Mike Henry in a statement. Oz Minerals chairperson Rebecca McGrath and CEO Andrew Cole in a joint statement thanked stakeholders for their contributions. – Reuters Uniqlo parent raises full-year outlook after strong first half TOKYO: Uniqlo parent Fast Retailing Co Ltd reported a 16% jump in first-half profit and lifted its full-year outlook yesterday, as the Japanese apparel retailer saw signs of recovery in China and strong sales growth in Europe and North America. Known for its affordable fleece jackets and “Heattech” thermals, Uniqlo has become a bellwether for global retailers in China, where it has around 900 stores, making it Fast Retailing’s biggest foreign market and surpassing the number of stores it has in Japan. “Performance for mainland China is now on a recovery track,” Fast Retailing said in a statement. Group operating profit totalled ¥220 billion (RM7.27 billion) in the six months through February, up from ¥189 billion a year earlier, as Southeast Asia, North America and Europe logged strong sales growth. It raised its forecast for full-year profit to ¥360 billion from ¥350 billion. Refinitiv Eikon data showed 14 analysts expected a profit of ¥347 billion. – Reuters

13 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 A full-strength Pakistan take on a New Zealand side depleted by the Indian Premier League when their fivematch T20 series gets under way in Lahore from tomorrow. Eight Kiwis are missing because of the IPL and skipper Kane Williamson has a bad knee injury, leaving the captaincy to batsman Tom Latham – and providing plenty of opportunity for newcomers to shine. While Pakistan’s top cricketers featured in the inaugural edition of the multibilliondollar IPL in 2008, they have been barred since – mirroring the frosty diplomatic relations between the neighbours. Pakistan and New Zealand will also meet in five one-day internationals after the T20 series, honing preparations for this year’s 50- over World Cup in India. Pakistan, runners-up to England in last year’s Twenty20 World Cup in Australia, welcome back skipper Babar Azam and key players Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf. They were rested for the recent losing series against Afghanistan. Shaheen’s return will be his first international match since injuring his knee in the World Cup final. Pakistan boast a new backroom team with former New Zealand all-rounder Grant Bradburn taking head coach duties for the 10 matches from Abdur Rehman. New sensation Ihsanullah, who goes by only one name and bowls at a ferocious 150kph, kept his place despite the disastrous loss against Afghanistan, along with opener Saim Ayub and pacer Zaman Khan. “We have a good squad that marries the exuberance of youth and the experience of senior cricketers,” skipper Azam said yesterday, adding they would not take a weakened Black Caps side lightly. “International cricket demands full commitment and that’s what we are focused on,” he said. “We are going to bring our ‘A’ game and keep ourselves focused for good results.” New Zealand’s interim coach Shane Jurgensen is in confident mood despite missing so many players. “It will be a quick turnaround from the fantastic series win against Sri Lanka,” said Jurgensen of New Zealand’s 2-1 T20 victory. Former spin-king Saqlain Mushtaq will be Jurgensen’s assistant – just two months after completing his stint as Pakistan’s head coach. “It will be a challenging series,” Jurgensen said. “Obviously Pakistan are a fantastic team to play in the white-ball format, so it’s a good opportunity to challenge them.” The Black Caps played two Tests and three ODIs in Pakistan just three months ago. The remaining four T20 matches are on April 15 and 17 in Lahore, and 20 and 24 in Rawalpindi. – AFP OLD TOWN KOPITIAM CHERAS SDN. BHD. (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) Company No. 200601029456 (749213-U) (Incorporated in Malaysia) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Company will be held at the Liquidator’s Office, 47A Jalan Chung Ah Ming, Pasir Puteh, 31650 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Monday, 15 May 2023 at 10.00 a.m. A G E N D A 1. To receive and consider the Liquidators’ account of receipts and payments and statement of final distribution among the contributories and any explanations arising therefrom. 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3) (b) of the Companies Act 2016, the books, accounts and documents of the company be destroyed after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of the final meeting. NG YUET SEAM Liquidator Dated: 14 April 2023 Note:- Subject to any rights or restrictions for the time being attaching to any class or classes of shares, at meetings of members or of classes of members each member entitled to vote may vote in person or by proxy or by attorney and on a show of hands every person present who is a member or a representative of a member shall have one vote, and on a poll every member present in person or by proxy or by attorney or other duly authorised representative shall have one vote for every such share he holds. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing (in the common or usual form) under the hand of the appointer or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if such appointer is a corporation, either under seal or under the hand of an officer or attorney duly authorised. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy and the power of attorney or other authority, if any, under which it is signed or a notarially certified copy of that power or authority shall be deposited at the registered office of the Company, or at such other place within Malaysia as is specified for that purpose in the notice convening the meeting, not less than forty-eight hours before the time for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the person named in the instrument proposes to vote, or, in the case of a poll, not less than twenty-four hours before the time appointed for the taking of the poll, and in default the instrument of proxy shall not be treated as valid. 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN NO. WA-B52NCVC-89-03/2023 ANTARA REGAL CLASS RESIDENCE SDN. BHD. [No. Syarikat: 198901008287 (185589-W)] … PLAINTIF DAN LUO WEI [No. Pasport China: G36456424] … DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI DALAM BENTUK IKLAN Kepada: LUO WEI Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Sesyen di Kuala Lumpur melalui Guaman No.: WA-B52NCVC-89-03/2023 oleh Plaintif, REGAL CLASS RESIDENCE SDN. BHD. [No. Syarikat: 198901008287 (185589-W)] yang beralamat di Level 12, Berjaya Times Square, No. 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur dalam mana tuntutan Plaintif terhadap Defendan ialah untuk:- a. Defendan membayar kepada Plaintif jumlah wang sebanyak RM447,072.85 setakat 09.02.2023; b. Defendan membayar kepada Plaintif sewa bulanan dan caj-caj yang dikenakan atas Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur dari 10.02.2023 sehingga tarikh perintah Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini; c. Satu Perintah interim terhadap Defendan bahawa barang-barangan dalam Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur ditahan dan hanya diberi pelepasan selepas penyelesaian penuh dan muktamad jumlah wang yang diperintahkan untuk dibayar oleh Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini; d. Faedah pada kadar 5% setahun ke atas jumlah wang yang diperintahkan untuk dibayar oleh Defendan kepada Plaintif dari tarikh pemfailan writ ini sehingga penyelesaian penuh dan muktamad; e. Defendan membayar kos tindakan ini; f. Kos atas dasar peguam-klien; dan g. Apa-apa relif selanjutnya yang difikirkan adil dan suaimanfaat oleh Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini. Dan telah diperintahkan pada 10.04.2023 bahawa penyampaian sesalinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan kedua-duanya bertarikh 10.03.2023 dalam tindakan ini disampaikan ke atas kamu secara penyampaian ganti seperti berikut:- (i) Dengan menampalkan satu salinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut berserta dengan satu salinan perintah penyampaian ganti ini di Papan Notis Mahkamah Sesyen, Kuala Lumpur dan menyerahkan secara Pos Berdaftar kepada LUO WEI, Defendan di Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur; dan (ii) Dengan mengiklankan satu Notis sekali di dalam akhbar tempatan dan bahawa penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut merupakan dan disifatkan sebagai penyampaian yang sempurna dan memuaskan bagi Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut selepas tujuh (7) hari dari tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran ke atas tindakan tersebut empat belas (14) hari dari tarikh penyampaian. Jika kamu ingkar berbuat demikian, Penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 10 April 2023 TT …………….……………………… Tetuan Mastura Partnership Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Notis Penyampaian Ganti Dalam Bentuk Iklan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Mastura Partnership bagi pihak Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas yang mempunyai alamat penyampaian di K-5-3, Solaris Mont Kiara, Jalan Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Tel No. : 03-6201 5566 & 03-6201 6655; Fax No. : 03-6201 0000 Email: [email protected] [Ruj: 13.02.1394.23 B-RC-LuoWei] 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-1226-01/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN DEWAN PERNIAGAAN MELAYU PERLIS BERHAD (No Syarikat.: 199201018259 [249763-U]) … PLAINTIF DAN AZWIRA BIN ZAINOL (No. K/P: 830426-02-5153) … DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) AZWIRA BIN ZAINOL SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No.WAA72M-1226-01/2023 oleh Yayasan Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Perlis Berhad (“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 30.01.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan di alamat terakhir kamu, 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 tujuh (7) 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 14 haribulan Mac, 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/YYP(RCE)/00773/2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DJOL SDN BHD [201801024957 (1286977-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at No. 21-2, Jalan Puteri 2/3, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan on the 13th day of April, 2023 the Special Resolution was duly passed:- DJOL SDN BHD be wound up voluntarily and that LIONG LISA be appointed liquidator for the purpose of winding up the company. LIONG LISA Kuala Lumpur Dated this 14th day of April, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DJOL SDN BHD [201801024957 (1286977-T)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovementioned Company which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 13th day of May, 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the liquidator of the said Company, and if so required in writing prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts are proven. LIONG LISA Liquidator Lot C-M-01, Mezzanine 1, Block C, 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Dated this 14th day of April, 2023 322 Notices 322 Notices PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SEREMBAN PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: NA-38-209-03/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 16758/2019 ( bertarikh 21/05/2019) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 228780, Lot 219, Mukim Bandar Sri Sendayan, Daerah Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) .. PLAINTIF DAN Indradevi a/p Selvaraj (No. Kad Pengenalan : 860205595328) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di SEREMBAN mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 14 Disember 2020 dan 29 Mac 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Khamis, 11 Mei 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 228780 No. Lot : Lot 219 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar Sri Sendayan / Seremban / Negeri Sembilan Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 10.000000 kaki persegi : 930.000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Indradevi a/p Selvaraj Syarat Nyata : Tanah ini hendaklah digunakan untuk bangunan kediaman sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindahmilik, dipajak, digadai melainkan dengan kebenaran bertulis daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “Sebuah rumah berkembar yang dibawah pegangan Geran 228780, Lot No. 219, Bandar Sri Sendayan, Daerah Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus yang beralamat pos di No. 239, Jalan Idaman Villa 8, Idaman Villa, 71950 Bandar Sri Sendayan, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 610,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: ENAM RATUS SEPULUH RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2022-299/IS(RS/j) 322 Notices CLASSIFIEDS *Terms And Conditions Apply Call 03-7784 6688 or email [email protected] RM138 6SHFLDO2΍HU for Limited time only! (excl 6% SST) 2 Units 3 Storey Shop House known as 178, 178A, 178B & 180, 180A, 180B Seang Teik Road, 10400 Penang. Price: RM2.5 million per unit Riverside Resort Sdn Bhd, 332D Chulia Street, 10200 Penang 04-2630337 PROPERTY FOR SALE GREAT RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT / SALE! For Viewing Appointment, please call Ms. Chloe : 03-2072 2562 Address: Kota Raya Complex Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock 50000 Kuala Lumpur Area: 5th Floor – 26,102 sf 4th Floor – 22,390 sf Other Floors – From 205 sf to 2,982 sf Size : 5cm x 1 column (3cm) Spec : Full Color Actual Price : RM198.00 5 Days duration *Value Added on website www.thesundaily.my Call : 017-320 8888 Home Repair Expert Plumbing, Tiling, Wiring and A/Cond From RM60 onward Advertise with us & connect to our urban readers. KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAH PERAK | PERLIS PAHANG | KELANTAN TERENGGANU MS. Shoba TEL: 03-7784 8888 FAX: 03-7784 4424 MALACCA MR. Rajah TEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051 JOHOR BAHRU MS. Anne Lim TEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549 OLD TOWN KOPITIAM CHERAS SDN. BHD. (In Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) Company No. 200601029456 (749213-U) (Incorporated in Malaysia) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Company will be held at the Liquidator’s Office, 47A Jalan Chung Ah Ming, Pasir Puteh, 31650 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Monday, 15 May 2023 at 10.00 a.m. A G E N D A 1. To receive and consider the Liquidators’ account of receipts and payments and statement of final distribution among the contributories and any explanations arising therefrom. 2. To resolve that under Section 518(3) (b) of the Companies Act 2016, the books, accounts and documents of the company be destroyed after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of the final meeting. NG YUET SEAM Liquidator Dated: 14 April 2023 Note:- Subject to any rights or restrictions for the time being attaching to any class or classes of shares, at meetings of members or of classes of members each member entitled to vote may vote in person or by proxy or by attorney and on a show of hands every person present who is a member or a representative of a member shall have one vote, and on a poll every member present in person or by proxy or by attorney or other duly authorised representative shall have one vote for every such share he holds. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing (in the common or usual form) under the hand of the appointer or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if such appointer is a corporation, either under seal or under the hand of an officer or attorney duly authorised. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy and the power of attorney or other authority, if any, under which it is signed or a notarially certified copy of that power or authority shall be deposited at the registered office of the Company, or at such other place within Malaysia as is specified for that purpose in the notice convening the meeting, not less than forty-eight hours before the time for holding the meeting or adjourned meeting at which the person named in the instrument proposes to vote, or, in the case of a poll, not less than twenty-four hours before the time appointed for the taking of the poll, and in default the instrument of proxy shall not be treated as valid. 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN NO. WA-B52NCVC-89-03/2023 ANTARA REGAL CLASS RESIDENCE SDN. BHD. [No. Syarikat: 198901008287 (185589-W)] … PLAINTIF DAN LUO WEI [No. Pasport China: G36456424] … DEFENDAN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI DALAM BENTUK IKLAN Kepada: LUO WEI Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang 50450 Kuala Lumpur AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Sesyen di Kuala Lumpur melalui Guaman No.: WA-B52NCVC-89-03/2023 oleh Plaintif, REGAL CLASS RESIDENCE SDN. BHD. [No. Syarikat: 198901008287 (185589-W)] yang beralamat di Level 12, Berjaya Times Square, No. 1, Jalan Imbi, 55100 Kuala Lumpur dalam mana tuntutan Plaintif terhadap Defendan ialah untuk:- a. Defendan membayar kepada Plaintif jumlah wang sebanyak RM447,072.85 setakat 09.02.2023; b. Defendan membayar kepada Plaintif sewa bulanan dan caj-caj yang dikenakan atas Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur dari 10.02.2023 sehingga tarikh perintah Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini; c. Satu Perintah interim terhadap Defendan bahawa barang-barangan dalam Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur ditahan dan hanya diberi pelepasan selepas penyelesaian penuh dan muktamad jumlah wang yang diperintahkan untuk dibayar oleh Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini; d. Faedah pada kadar 5% setahun ke atas jumlah wang yang diperintahkan untuk dibayar oleh Defendan kepada Plaintif dari tarikh pemfailan writ ini sehingga penyelesaian penuh dan muktamad; e. Defendan membayar kos tindakan ini; f. Kos atas dasar peguam-klien; dan g. Apa-apa relif selanjutnya yang difikirkan adil dan suaimanfaat oleh Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini. Dan telah diperintahkan pada 10.04.2023 bahawa penyampaian sesalinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan kedua-duanya bertarikh 10.03.2023 dalam tindakan ini disampaikan ke atas kamu secara penyampaian ganti seperti berikut:- (i) Dengan menampalkan satu salinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut berserta dengan satu salinan perintah penyampaian ganti ini di Papan Notis Mahkamah Sesyen, Kuala Lumpur dan menyerahkan secara Pos Berdaftar kepada LUO WEI, Defendan di Unit No. 2-13A-3A, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Kuala Lumpur, Laman Sentral Berjaya, No. 105, Jalan Ampang, 50450 Kuala Lumpur; dan (ii) Dengan mengiklankan satu Notis sekali di dalam akhbar tempatan dan bahawa penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut merupakan dan disifatkan sebagai penyampaian yang sempurna dan memuaskan bagi Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut selepas tujuh (7) hari dari tarikh penampalan atau pengiklanan. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah memasukkan kehadiran ke atas tindakan tersebut empat belas (14) hari dari tarikh penyampaian. Jika kamu ingkar berbuat demikian, Penghakiman boleh diberikan terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 10 April 2023 TT …………….……………………… Tetuan Mastura Partnership Peguamcara bagi Plaintif Notis Penyampaian Ganti Dalam Bentuk Iklan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Mastura Partnership bagi pihak Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas yang mempunyai alamat penyampaian di K-5-3, Solaris Mont Kiara, Jalan Solaris Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Tel No. : 03-6201 5566 & 03-6201 6655; Fax No. : 03-6201 0000 Email: [email protected] [Ruj: 13.02.1394.23 B-RC-LuoWei] 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA GUAMAN SIVIL NO: WA-A72M-1226-01/2023 ANTARA YAYASAN DEWAN PERNIAGAAN MELAYU PERLIS BERHAD (No Syarikat.: 199201018259 [249763-U]) … PLAINTIF DAN AZWIRA BIN ZAINOL (No. K/P: 830426-02-5153) … DEFENDAN NOTIS (IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI) Kepada: - 1) AZWIRA BIN ZAINOL SILA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Majistret Kuala Lumpur , dalam Guaman No.WAA72M-1226-01/2023 oleh Yayasan Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Perlis Berhad (“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 30.01.2023 dilaksanakan secara penyampaian ganti terhadap kamu dengan menghantar melalui serahan melalui menampalkan di alamat terakhir kamu, 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 tujuh (7) 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 14 haribulan Mac, 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/YYP(RCE)/00773/2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DJOL SDN BHD [201801024957 (1286977-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at No. 21-2, Jalan Puteri 2/3, Bandar Puteri, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan on the 13th day of April, 2023 the Special Resolution was duly passed:- DJOL SDN BHD be wound up voluntarily and that LIONG LISA be appointed liquidator for the purpose of winding up the company. LIONG LISA Kuala Lumpur Dated this 14th day of April, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DJOL SDN BHD [201801024957 (1286977-T)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovementioned Company which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 13th day of May, 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the liquidator of the said Company, and if so required in writing prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts are proven. LIONG LISA Liquidator Lot C-M-01, Mezzanine 1, Block C, 19 Sentral, Jalan Harapan, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Dated this 14th day of April, 2023 322 Notices 322 Notices PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI SEREMBAN PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: NA-38-209-03/2023 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 16758/2019 ( bertarikh 21/05/2019) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah GRN 228780, Lot 219, Mukim Bandar Sri Sendayan, Daerah Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA Public Bank Berhad (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) .. PLAINTIF DAN Indradevi a/p Selvaraj (No. Kad Pengenalan : 860205595328) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di SEREMBAN mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 14 Disember 2020 dan 29 Mac 2023, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Khamis, 11 Mei 2023, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum juaIan lelongan dijaIankan. Sila layari https://eIeIong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : GRN 228780 No. Lot : Lot 219 Mukim/Daerah/Negeri : Bandar Sri Sendayan / Seremban / Negeri Sembilan Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/No. : Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 10.000000 kaki persegi : 930.000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Indradevi a/p Selvaraj Syarat Nyata : Tanah ini hendaklah digunakan untuk bangunan kediaman sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindahmilik, dipajak, digadai melainkan dengan kebenaran bertulis daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah “Sebuah rumah berkembar yang dibawah pegangan Geran 228780, Lot No. 219, Bandar Sri Sendayan, Daerah Seremban, Negeri Sembilan Darul Khusus yang beralamat pos di No. 239, Jalan Idaman Villa 8, Idaman Villa, 71950 Bandar Sri Sendayan, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 610,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: ENAM RATUS SEPULUH RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2022-299/IS(RS/j) 322 Notices CLASSIFIEDS *Terms And Conditions Apply Call 03-7784 6688 or email [email protected] RM138 6SHFLDO2΍HU for Limited time only! (excl 6% SST) 2 Units 3 Storey Shop House known as 178, 178A, 178B & 180, 180A, 180B Seang Teik Road, 10400 Penang. Price: RM2.5 million per unit Riverside Resort Sdn Bhd, 332D Chulia Street, 10200 Penang 04-2630337 PROPERTY FOR SALE GREAT RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT / SALE! For Viewing Appointment, please call Ms. Chloe : 03-2072 2562 Address: Kota Raya Complex Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock 50000 Kuala Lumpur Area: 5th Floor – 26,102 sf 4th Floor – 22,390 sf Other Floors – From 205 sf to 2,982 sf Size : 5cm x 1 column (3cm) Spec : Full Color Actual Price : RM198.00 5 Days duration *Value Added on website www.thesundaily.my Call : 017-320 8888 Home Repair Expert Plumbing, Tiling, Wiring and A/Cond From RM60 onward Advertise with us & connect to our urban readers. KLANG VALLEY PENANG | KEDAH PERAK | PERLIS PAHANG | KELANTAN TERENGGANU MS. Shoba TEL: 03-7784 8888 FAX: 03-7784 4424 MALACCA MR. Rajah TEL: 012-628 2844 FAX: 06-764 2051 JOHOR BAHRU MS. Anne Lim TEL: 013-770 6699 FAX: 07-355 5549 Pakistan to bring ‘A game’ Shaheen returns from injury to take on depleted Black Caps JON RAHM admits he is shaking off fatigue following his Masters victory as he prepares to return to the day job at the RBC Heritage in South Carolina yesterday. The Spanish star won the second major of his career after a weatherdisrupted Masters that meant he was forced to play 30 holes on a marathon closing Sunday on his way to clinching the famous green jacket. A weary Rahm said Wednesday he had considered skipping this week’s tournament at Hilton Head Island but wanted to honor an earlier pledge to play in the event. “It did cross my mind, but I made a commitment earlier in the year, and I want to honor that commitment,” Rahm said when asked if he had thought about withdrawing. “I put myself in the shoes of not only the spectators, but the kids as well. If I was one of the kids, I would want to see the recent Masters champion play, good or bad.” Rahm acknowledged however that he may struggle to hit the ground running as he grapples with the lingering after-effects of a mentally and physically draining Masters win. The adrenaline of Sunday’s victory led to a poor night’s sleep but Rahm said he hopes to be firing on all cylinders by the weekend. “I think it’s going to be opposite to most tournaments,” Rahm said. “I feel like I’m going to be feeling better every day. “So I think it could be a little challenging early on, but if I can get through the first two days, I think on the weekend I’ll feel back to normal. “It’s getting better every day. It was a very demanding week, a lot going on with the weather and a lot of fighting and a lot of work mentally obviously. “So it’s going to take a little bit to get to a good spot, but I’m feeling good.” Rahm meanwhile says he is already thinking about what he plans to put on his menu for next year’s Champions Dinner, one of the highlights of Masters week that is hosted by the defending champion. – AFP Weary Rahm back to day job Babar Azam. – AFPPIX Rahm

14 theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 SPORTS Milan draw first blood Bennacer gives Rossoneri a slender advantage in Champions League derby with Napoli AC MILAN have the slenderest of advantages in their all-Italian Champions League quarterfinal after Ismael Bennacer fired his team to a 1-0 win over wasteful Napoli yesterday. Algeria midfielder Bennacer lashed in the decisive strike five minutes before halftime of an engaging first leg at a packed, loud and wet San Siro after Brahim Diaz and Rafael Leao combined brilliantly. The 25- year-old’s second goal of the season ensured Milan’s second win over Italy’s champions-elect Napoli in less than a fortnight and a narrow lead to defend at the Stadio Maradona in Naples next week. “It will be a great return leg with a lot of tension and emotion,” said Milan coach Stefano Pioli to Amazon Prime. “We performed at a level worthy of the Champions League… we’ll go to Naples with confidence and concentration high, we know how difficult it will be down there.” Napoli, who had Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa sent off in the 74th minute and will be without Kim Min-jae for the second leg, should have Victor Osimhen back for the second leg next Wednesday and without their star striker Luciano Spalletti’s team got nothing despite having plenty of chances. Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan made a series of impressive stops, in particular late on when he clawed out Giovanni Di Lorenzo’s effort just as the more than 70,000 home fans were celebrating victory. But Bennacer’s strike was just enough to give Milan hopes of their first Champions League semifinal since they were crowned kings of Europe for the seventh and most recent time in 2007. That prospect will be all the more mouthwatering for Milan fans as their likely opponents would be local rivals Inter following their convincing win at Benfica on Wednesday. “It’s a defeat, but with the attitude we showed today we’re confident,” said Napoli captain Di Lorenzo to Amazon Prime. “It’s not easy to come here without a centre-forward but we created chances.” The home fans had barely discarded their pre-match display which read “our destiny is in our hands” when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia wasted a great chance to give Napoli a stunning early lead. Kvaratskhelia had a shot blocked after neat exchange with Eljif Elmas and Piotr Zielinski forced Maignan into another good stop with a rocket in the 12th minute. Milan had barely been in the game up to that point but midway through the first half Bennacer put the hosts into the lead after a brilliant piece of individual skill from Brahim Diaz. The Spanish international span beautifully in the midfield for a thumping near-post finish. Simon Kjaer then smashed Bennacer’s corner off the bar in stoppage time with a header which for a moment had fans celebrating before the ball bounced out just before the line. Napoli began the second half in the same manner in which they started the first but again couldn’t find their way past Maignan. “It is so important to have a positive result,” Milan forward Diaz, named man of the match, told BT Sport. “Not conceding a goal was great. We need to play to win next week.” – AFP/Express Newspapers PGA Tour releases revamped autumn schedule THE PGA Tour unveiled a revamped autumn schedule on Wednesday which will comprise seven tournaments worth a total of US$56.6 million (RM249m) in prize money. The schedule, first outlined last year as the PGA Tour scrambled to respond to the rise of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf circuit, is officially billed as FedEx Cup Fall and gets under way in September at the Fortninet Championship in Napa, California. After a break for the Ryder Cup in Italy, the schedule resumes with the Sanderson Farms Championship in Mississippi and includes events in Japan, Mexico and Bermuda before concluding at the RSM Classic in Georgia in mid-November. “We are launching the most meaningful updates to the PGA TOUR season since 2007,” PGA Tour President Tyler Dennis said in a statement. Winners of the seven events included on the schedule will earn a two-year tour exemption as well as a spot in the field at the 2024 Sentry Tournament of Champions – the traditional opening event of the PGA Tour calendar year that takes place in Hawaii each January. Winners will also earn berths at the Players Championship as well as majors that normally invite PGA Tour winners. In addition, tournament winners will earn 500 FedEx Cup points. Points earned in the seven autumn events will go towards finalising priority ranking for the 2024 campaign. The revamped schedule means the Houston Open, which has been played in the autumn since 2019, will be shifted to the spring of 2024. The World Golf Championships-HSBC Champions, which has not been held since 2019, will not take place in 2023. The WGC-Dell Technologies Match Play is also no longer part of the 2024 FedExCup season. Svitolina secures first win UKRAINE’S Elina Svitolina secured her first victory as a mother, beating Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-4 6-2 in an ITF World Tennis Tour clash in Chiasso, Switzerland yesterday as she steps up her preparations for the French Open starting next month. Svitolina returned to the WTA Tour at the Charleston Open last week following the birth of her daughter Skai with husband and fellow tennis player Gael Monfils and lost a tough three-setter against Yulia Putintseva. The 28-year-old’s comeback will continue on the World Tennis Tour – which provides entry-level and mid-level tournaments – as she builds momentum ahead of Roland Garros. “The feeling of returning to the court in Charleston was fantastic, I had missed it,” the former world number three told the ITF website before her Chiasso opener. “Chiasso is a perfect tournament to play good matches and regain continuity, but I’ll take one match at a time. “Since January I’ve been back in training with the goal of returning as soon as possible and I’ve been working on clay for two months knowing that most likely my first matches would coincide with this time of the season.” Svitolina plans to compete at two more ITF tournaments but the WTA Tour’s Italian Open in Rome next month will remain her top priority before the French Open. Muguruza splits from coach Martinez TWO-TIME Grand Slam champion Garbine Muguruza and coach Conchita Martinez have parted ways after three years together, Martinez confirmed yesterday. The announcement comes just over a week since the 29-year-old Muguruza said she was taking an extended break. Martinez began working with her fellow Spaniard in 2019 although she was also with her when she won the Wimbledon crown in 2017 when Muguruza’s coach Sam Sumyk was absent. “Garbine and I have mutually agreed to end our employment relationship,” Martinez, who also won Wimbledon during her illustrious playing career, said on Twitter. “They have been fantastic years, full of great emotions and wonderful experiences, both on and off the court. It has been a pleasure to work with you, Garbine. I wish you the best.” STEFANO PIOLI said that AC Milan should have given themselves more than a onegoal lead in their Champions League quarterfinal derby with Napoli after their fellow Italians finished the first leg with 10 men. Milan had a quarter of an hour to extend their advantage earned from Ismael Bennacer’s first half strike when AndreFrank Zambo Anguissa was sent off for two quick-fire bookings. “It’s the only regret we have, we should have been more clear-headed,” Pioli told reporters. “It’s a shame but they gave a lot. It’s a good result after a good performance, let’s hope for the next one.” Milan now have to defend a slim lead at the Stadio Maradona in Naples, with the prospect of a semifinal clash with local rivals Inter after they handily won at Benfica Wednesday. “It will be difficult match, Napoli are a good team with a lot of quality, the team which up to now had scored the most goals in the Champions League,” added Pioli. “We had a lot of difficult moments tonight… We’re expecting Napoli to come at us and we need to put everything out there on the pitch. We won’t get our approach wrong… no one here thinks we’ve already won.” Napoli coach Luciano Spalletti said he would quit if the fans didn’t create an intimidating atmosphere for the second leg after tensions between fans and the owner Aurelio De Laurentiis bubbled over in recent weeks. Protests from hardcore supporters against De Laurentiis over what they believe are his attempts to remove them from the stadium has left home games flatter than one would expect after such a brilliant season for such a passionate fanbase. Napoli’s four-goal home hammering at the hands of Milan in the league earlier this month was played in a bizarre atmosphere, with little chanting and even fights breaking out between home supporters. “If it happens again for the second leg I will quit. For what we’re contending, for the sensitivity these players have because… these players are sensitive to what goes on around them,” said Spalletti. “We played in an atmosphere which did not help us. It’s inexplicable not helping the team in that moment.” – AFP Pioli regrets only scoring one against 10-man Napoli MANCHESTER CITY lead Real Madrid in the race to sign Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham after Liverpool dropped out of contention to sign the 19-year-old England midfielder. WEST HAM and England’s Declan Rice, 24, Brighton’s 21-year-old Ecuador international Moises Caicedo, Inter Milan and Italy’s Nicolo Barella, 26, and Wolves and Portugal’s 24-year-old Matheus Nunes remain on Liverpool’s short-list for a new midfielder. BARCELONA will step up their interest in Ilkay Gundogan after being impressed with the 32-year-old German midfielder’s performance for Manchester City against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. ARSENAL, Liverpool and Manchester United are monitoring Bayern Munich’s 20-year-old Netherlands midfielder Ryan Gravenberch. CHAMPIONS LEAGUE (Quarterfinal, 1st leg): AC Milan 1 (Bennacer 40) Napoli 0, Real Madrid 2 (Benzema 22, Asensio 74) Chelsea 0. SHORTS AC Milan’s Rafael Leao (left) in action with Napoli’s Giovanni Di Lorenzo. – REUTERSPIX TOUCHLINES RESULTS

15 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | APRIL 14, 2023 MATCH-BY-MATCH facts and statcs ahead of the next round of English Premier League (all in Malaysian time/10pm unless stated): SATURDAY Aston Villa vsNewcastle (7.30pm) – Away Win Villa have lost their last two Premier League matches against Newcastle United. Following a 4-0 against win Villa in October, Newcastle are looking for their first Premier League double over them since the 2013-14 campaign. Villa’s Ollie Watkins has scored in nine of his last 11 league appearances. Chelsea vs Brighton – Home Win Chelsea have never lost a home league game against Brighton, conceding just once in seven previous meetings at Stamford Bridge (W5 D2). Brighton’s only league win in 15 league matches (D4 L10) against Chelsea was a 4-1 at home this season. Everton vs Fulham – Home Win Everton have only lost two of their last 14 league games against Fulham (W9 D3). Everton are winless in their last nine Premier League matches against newly promoted sides (D4 L5). Fulham have lost each of their last four Premier League games after having only lost four of their previous 16 beforehand (W8 D4). Southampton vs Crystal Palace – Away Win Southampton are winless in their last three Premier League games against Palace (D1 L2) since winning 3-1 in May 2021. Palace are looking to complete a league double over Southampton for the first time since the 1990-91 top-flight campaign. Palace have never kept a clean sheet in 22 top-flight away games against Southampton (W3 D5 L14). Tottenham vs Bournemouth– Home Win Tottenham have won all five of their home Premier League games against Bournemouth, beating them in all five campaigns between 2015-16 and 2019-20. Tottenham’s Harry Kane has scored in 20 different Premier League games in 2022-23, more than any other player and his most ever in a season. Bournemouth have only taken five points in 11 previous Premier League meetings with Spurs (W1 D2 L8). Wolves vs Brentford – Away Win Wolves have only lost one of their last seven league games against Brentford (W4 D2), a 2-0 home defeat last season. Since the start of last season, only Manchester City (45) have scored more goals from set pieces in the Premier League than Brentford (43). Brentford’s Ivan Toney has scored 18 Premier League goals this season, with only City’s Erling Haaland (30) and Tottenham’s Harry Kane (23) scoring more. SUNDAY Man City vs Leicester(1230am) –Home Win City have won 10 of their last 12 Premier League games against Leicester (L2), including the last four in a row since a 5-2 home defeat in September 2020. Leicester have lost seven of their last eight league games (D1) and are winless in all competitions since Feb 11. Interim Leicester manager Dean Smith has lost all six previous games against City with former clubs Aston Villa and Norwich City. West Ham vsArsenal (9pm) – Away Win West Ham have won only two of their last 29 Premier League games against Arsenal (D5 L22). Arsenal have won all five of their away London derbies in the league this season, by an aggregate score of 11-0. Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli has been involved in four goals in his four league starts against West Ham (three goals, one assist). Forest vs Man United (11.30pm)– Away Win Forest are winless (D3 L6) and without a clean sheet in their last nine Premier League games. United have won their last nine games against Forest in all competitions and beaten them three times this season. No player has scored more winning goals in the Premier League this season than United forward Marcus Rashford (10). TUESDAY Leeds Unitedvs Liverpool (3am) – Away Win Leeds have shipped 10 goals in their three Premier League games in April (W1 L2), more than any other team so far this month. Liverpool have not lost in their last five league visits to Leeds (W3 D2) since a 4-3 defeat in November 2000. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has seven goals in five league appearances against Leeds and scored in last season’s 3-0 win at Elland Road. Reuters ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS Road to recovery Man Utd’s Ten Hag backs ‘disappointed’ Rashford for quick return MANCHESTER UNITED’S Marcus Rashford is disappointed at being ruled out of action for “a few games” due to a muscle injury but the forward has already taken the first few steps towards a comeback, manager Erik ten Hag said yesterday. Rashford, 25, limped off in the 80th minute during United’s 2-0 Premier League win over Everton at Old Trafford. United have not provided a timeframe on their top goal-scorer’s return. “It’s a setback and he’s disappointed, but he’s not totally broke because he will return quickly. He’s started his rehab and that helps to get back soon,” Ten Hag told reporters. “(Rashford will miss) A few games… We’ll have to see it how it develops.” Rashford’s injury will be a big blow to United, and the club will be hoping Anthony Martial can step up in the England international’s absence. Ten Hag backed Martial and dismissed criticism of the 27-year-old French forward, who has grabbed seven goals in 17 appearances this season and has spent much of the campaign on the sidelines injured. Martial made three substitute appearances for United in their last three League games, scoring against Everton. “I think he is ready to start… the front line did very well against Brentford and we picked the same against Everton,” Ten Hag added. “The advantage was we could bring Martial back slowly, giving him minutes, but I think already against Everton he was ready to start the game. “The time he needs for a goal is less. When he’s in the team, we play our best football and we have our best results as a team.” United are also missing the services of winger Alejandro Garnacho and defender Luke Shaw, but the manager expects the England left back to be “back on short notice”. The Old Trafford club are fighting for silverware on multiple fronts this season, and remain alive in the Europa League and FA Cup. They have also won the League Cup and are fourth in the league standings on 56 points from 29 games. “We are playing really good football. We’ve already won one cup and we’re all enjoying it, the dressing room is close together and the players are giving their all in training and games,” goalkeeper David de Gea said. “We are still in three competitions and we’re in the right way.” – Reuters Spurs chief Levy ‘blown away’ by Kompany TOTTENHAM chairman Daniel Levy has reportedly been “blown away” by No. 1 managerial target Vincent Kompany. The Belgian’s exciting Burnley side clinched promotion to the Premier League in record time this season and he is now apparently being lined up for the Spurs job. Levy is conducting a thorough search for the club’s next manager after sacking Antonio Conte in March. Surprisingly, he has reportedly placed Manchester City icon Kompany at the top of his wish list. Kompany has impressed during his first managerial stint in England. The former defender has reconstructed Burnley’s team and made them the most thrilling team to watch in the EFL. The Clarets have suffered just two defeats in the second tier and have a remarkable 90 points from 40 matches. It is the fastest any team has won promotion from the Championship, leaving the rest of the division in their wake. According to The Sun, Levy has been “blown away” by Kompany after receiving glowing reports on the ex-City captain. The Spurs chairman has seen how Mikel Arteta has transformed Arsenal after working closely under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium for three years. Kompany won two of his four Premier League titles as captain under Guardiola. Levy apparently thinks the 37-year-old could replicate Arteta’s work and rebuild Spurs following several years of underwhelming performance in the aftermath of Mauricio Pochettino’s departure. The report adds that Kompany is ready to listen if Spurs make an offer. That is despite the chance to build on his work at Burnley by reinventing the Turf Moor outfit as an exciting Premier League club – the opposite of their reputation under the pragmatic but largely successful former boss Sean Dyche. A six-man shortlist reportedly has Kompany firmly at the top. Pochettino’s return has not been ruled out either, but other top bosses are also being considered. Julian Nagelsmann, Luis Enrique, Brendan Rodgers and Arne Slot make up the wish list alongside Kompany and Pochettino. Conte’s assistant Christian Stellini has been installed as acting head coach until the end of the season. However, Spurs have underwhelmed in both matches in which they were led by the Italian. Stellini was shown a red card during Spurs’ unconvincing 2-1 win over Brighton at the weekend. There were chants for fans’ favourite Pochettino to be appointed after Stellini was dismissed to the stands. – Express Newspapers RIVAL BIDDERS for Manchester United have been invited to submit a third offer by the end of April, according to reports. Qatari banker Sheikh Jassim Bin Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jaber Al Thani and British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe both submitted a second bid for the Premier League club last month. Several offers are understood to have been received in recent weeks but Sheikh Jassim and Ratcliffe remain the front runners to buy United should the Glazers give up control of the club they bought in 2005 for £790 million (RM4.35m). United’s unpopular owners announced in November they were conducting a strategic review, with the sale of the club one option being considered. The Qatari group has reportedly made an offer of about £5b (RM27.6b) for 100% ownership of the club while Ratcliffe, a boyhood United fan, wants to buy the combined Glazer shareholding of 69%. The Americans’ asking price is believed to be around US$6b (RM26.4b) – a figure that would make the 20-time English champions the most expensive sports club in history. Finnish entrepreneur Thomas Zilliacus last month entered the race and US hedge fund Elliott Investment Management is understood to have made a bid for a minority stake. However, Zilliacus yesterday said he was pulling out of a process he described as a “farce”. “Jim Ratcliffe, Sheikh Jassim and myself all were ready to negotiate a deal to buy United. Instead Glazers chose to start a new round,” he wrote on Twitter. “I will not participate in a farce set up to maximize the profit for the sellers at the expense of Manchester United.” “The bidding is turning into a farce, with Glazers giving no respect to the club,” he added. “The delays will make it very difficult for any new owner to build a winning team for next season.” The Glazers have angered many United supporters by saddling the club with huge debts over the past 18 years. They appeared ready to cash out at an enormous profit when they invited external investment in November but they could yet shun the option of selling a controlling stake. – AFP Man Utd bidding process goes to third round Marcus Rashford

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] FRIDAY • APRIL 14, 2023 It will be a great return leg with a lot of tension and emotion. We performed at a level worthy of the Champions League… we’ll go to Naples with confidence and concentration high, we know how difficult it will be down there.” AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli QUOTE OF THE DAY Door still open FRANK LAMPARD called on his Chelsea players to “change the story” when they face Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge next week after they went down 2-0 in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. The interim manager insisted the door remained open to the last-four ahead of the second leg, despite watching his 10-man side fail to muster a fightback in the second half in Madrid. A red card for Ben Chilwell just before the hour mark effectively ended any hope the team had of springing a surprise against Real, after Karim Benzema had scored to give the European champions the lead in the first half. Marco Asensio fired in a second after 74 minutes to leave Lampard’s team facing a mammoth task to rescue the tie at Stamford Bridge next Wednesday, as their last hope of rescuing a wretched season hangs by a thread. “It’s a big challenge of course, a team of the quality of Real Madrid,” said Lampard. “The door is open, it’s up to us if we want to kick it open further. “Mixed emotions about the game. For a period with 11 men, we were in the game, we had some chances. I think we could do better. “We can utilise our strengths better, especially with the wing-backs, we can be more urgent. Those are things for myself and the staff and the players to work on. I saw opportunity there that we didn’t quite take. “The spirit was great at the end of the game was great – 10 men for half an hour, you understand a lot of things can happen. “We have to believe. I have to be the first one to believe this is possible.” The result meant Chelsea have failed to score in four consecutive games for the first time since 1993, with three different managers having overseen a goalless run stretching back to March 18. Real were ruthless in dispatching the rudderless visitors, from whom the attacking life seemed to drain once Benzema had struck in what to that point had been a balanced first half. Chelsea had an early sight of goal when Joao Felix raced clear of Eder Militao and fired at Thibaut Courtois, only for the former Blues goalkeeper to shovel the ball to safety. It was to be the team’s best chance until substitute Mason Mount went through in added time but his shot was blocked by former Blues teammate Antonio Rudiger. By the time Chelsea play Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday they will have gone four weeks since they last scored. Real will then arrive at Stamford Bridge three days later and despite the lack of firepower, Lampard remained optimistic his players have it in them to turn the tie around. “If you don’t believe in top level sport that things will go your way… it’s a mindset and a belief,” said Lampard. “The fans will (believe). They will come and support us. “We’re realistic, 2-0 down against Real Madrid. I’ve been involved in games that change. We’re in a different place now, maybe that’s a good thing. “We want to change the tone, change the story. We went tonight with 10 men against Real, it’s a difficult night for the lads. “I see they’re disappointed in the end. They gave everything in that final part of the game. “It’ll be different next week. We’re not favourites. We weren’t favourites yesterday, we’re not favourites today. The possibilities are ours if we can take them.” Real manager Carlo Ancelotti echoed Lampard’s words that the tie is not yet over and called on his players to show calm ahead of the return leg in London. “I’m not exhausted, I’m quite well,” said the former Blues boss. “I have tonnes of energy. But obviously we have to suffer, it’s not simple to be on the bench even when you’re winning 2-0. “I’m happy but we have to be calm and there’s another 90 minutes. In football, anything can happen. We have got to manage it properly and try to repeat the match we had tonight. “We are satisfied with the result, with the performance. We’re satisfied only for tonight. “It’s not over yet. We know really well Chelsea will try to do everything next week.” – The Independent CHELSEA co-owner Todd Boehly was left with egg on his face after getting his prediction wrong for his team’s visit to Real Madrid yesterday. The American chief was in a confident mood before the game as he spoke to the media, but goals from Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio saw the Spanish side take a commanding lead into the second leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. Chelsea were three games without a goal heading into their first leg against masters of the competition Real Madrid, who dumped the Blues out of the competition last year. However, despite their struggles in front of goal – Boehly appeared sure that his side would hit the back of the net not just once to break their hoodoo, but Thibaut Courtois was tipped to concede three times yesterday. “Chelsea’s going to win, 3-0,” Boehly told Sky Sports in Madrid before the game. “3-0 yeah. I say have a lot of faith and we’re going to win 3-0 tonight. “We look at this as a very long-term process and we had a lot of work to do. We are excited about the future. The future’s bright and we’re excited about tonight. Yeah, it’s important to get a good result. Thank you.” Boehly’s prediction was optimistic to say the least, as defeat without reply at the Bernbeu ensured that they are now 374 minutes without a goal, on their worst run since 1993 and have scored three times in the same match just once since mid-October. The American owner would have been disappointed to see the Blues slump to a 2-0 defeat in which they were outclassed for large periods of the game, he will have every reason to be annoyed with his predecessor Roman Abramovich rather than Frank Lampard. Boehly has been playing catch-up since completing his £4.25 billion (RM23.4b) takeover of the club in May 2022 after the west London outfit were massively restricted by the UK government in February, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. That came as a direct result of Abramovich’s involvement as custodian of the club and the impact of sanctions put in place created a ripple effect for Chelsea. One of the major issues was that the club were denied the chance to renew contracts of players whose deals were set to expire in June. Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen had been in talks for months about extending their deal, but former director Marina Granovskaia dragged her feet in negotiations and the gamble backfired. No one could blame the players for putting their own needs above the club’s, with Rudiger signing a lucrative contract to join Madrid on a free transfer, while Christensen headed to Barcelona. And when Boehly took over the club, it was reported by The Athletic that the American billionaire was ‘stunned’ at Abramovich’s failure to tie down the pair to new deals. Rudiger would later come back to haunt his former side 10 months after departing. There was character shown by Lampard’s side, and Boehly has no reason to aim his ire towards the 44-year-old given it was only his second game in charge since being appointed interim manager. But Abramovich’s mistake may have proved to be one of the most costly made by the Russian during his largely successful reign, with Boehly paying the price. – Express Newspapers Chelsea owner Boehly left red-faced after prediction backfires Lampard believes Chelsea can turn tables on Madrid Karim Benzema (centre) scores Real Madrid’s first goal past Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. –REUTERSPIX