The Sun-210823

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said he will ensure that Islam continues to be upheld as the religion of the federation, apart from providing sufficient allocations for the organisation of Islamic knowledge programmes. He also gave an assurance that the rights of non-Muslim would be preserved, and they would always be treated with respect and have a comfortable life. “I will assure and continue to reiterate here in this country, while Islam is the religion of the federation, I will continue to defend the faith, uphold the religion, continue to promote Islam and provide enough allocation and support for training, understanding and implementing Islamic programmes,” he said. Anwar was speaking when officiating at the 63rd Malaysian International Al-Quran Recitation and Memorisation Assembly (MTHQA) at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur on Saturday night. He said the level of Islamophobia present in the world is due to certain parties who have superficial thoughts about Islam, 3 page INSIDE MCMC acts to curb fake news 5 page 15 cops nabbed at night spot suspended TELLING IT AS IT IS ONMONDAY AUGUST 21, 2023 No. 8334 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my Remains of nine plane crash victims buried KLANG: The remains of nine victims of the plane crash tragedy at Elmina West in Shah Alam on Thursday were buried yesterday. They were brought out gradually from the Forensics Department of the Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital here for funeral rites and prayers at Masjid Jamek Ar-Rahimiah, located about 2km away. The remains were subsequently transported to their respective burial sites. A sombre atmosphere enveloped the Raudhatul Sakinah Phase 2 Muslim Cemetery in Gombak, as the remains of Pelangai assemblyman Datuk Seri Johari Harun arrived. Johari, 53, who was Pahang Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman, was laid to rest at 12.04pm, with the talkin (funeral sermon) read by his son Muhammad Hafiz Naqiuddin. Among those present to pay their last respects were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, former prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob and Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay. On Saturday, the remains of Muhamad Hafiz Muhamad Saleh, 32, another victim of the plane crash, were buried at the Al-Huda Mosque Muslim Cemetery in Sungai Petani, Kedah. On Thursday, a Beechcraft Model 390 (Premier 1) business jet crashed on the Guthrie Corridor Expressway, killing 10 individuals. The ill-fated aircraft was on a flight from Langkawi to the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang and had been cleared to land at 2.48pm. However, it crashed two minutes later. Apart from Johari and Muhamad Hafiz, the eight others killed were Shahrul Kamal Roslan, 41, Heikal Aras Abdul Azim, 45, Muhammad Taufiq Mohd Zaki, 37, Khairil Azwan Jamaludin, 43, Shaharul Amir Omar, 49, Mohammad Naim Fawwas Mohamed Muaidi, 35, Idris Abdul Talib @ Ramali, 41, and Sharipudin Shaari, 51. The victims who died were six passengers and two crew of the light aircraft, while the other two were civilians – p-hailing motorcyclist Muhamad Hafiz and Sharipuddin who was an e-hailing driver. oIt will be upheld as religion of federation, non-Muslims treated with respect: PM Bernama reported. “That is why on the incident of burning of the Quran in Sweden, apart from condemning it, I decided to order the publication of one million (copies of the) Quran in all languages, including Swedish, to be distributed in Malaysia and the rest of the world. Fifteen thousand Al-Qurans have been sent to Sweden to be distributed to universities and study centres so that they can evaluate and read, and for me, for the government, this move is more reasonable to give them an understanding (of Islam).” Turn to — page 5 Assurance on Islam Turn to — page 3 Russakinar Omar, younger sister of Shaharul Amir, a retired naval commander, holding the Royal Malaysian Navy ensign that was presented to the family while his remains were buried at the Sri Manjung Islamic Cemetery yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

2 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS National Day celebrations to highlight Madani concept KUALA LUMPUR: National Day 2023, which will be celebrated on Aug 31, will embody the essence of the Malaysia Madani concept. The national-level celebrations in Putrajaya will include diverse elements such as dance and music presentations, acrobatics and an impressive parade by security forces . National Department for Culture and Arts Cultural Arts Development division director Rosnan Nordin said one of the interpretations involves highlighting the Malaysia Madani contingent, comprising a fusion of 1,000 participants representing diverse ethnicities from Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia. He said there is also an economic contingent involving industry players such as GLCs, government-linked investment companies, telecommunications and banking companies, reflecting how the nation’s security and harmony lead to fruitful investment outcomes. oEvent in Putrajaya on Aug 31 to feature dances, music presentations, acrobatics and grand parade by security forces “This will then followed by a parade featuring military, police, and ministry assets that utilise new technologies such as electric vehicles. This serves as a symbolic representation that security and peace bring progress to Malaysia.” Rosnan added that in line with the theme Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan Penuhi Harapan (Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope) a total of 1,500 school students will sing the theme song while performing swift movements and various formations and waving the Jalur Gemilang, Bernama reported. He said to showcase the richness of Malaysian arts and culture, some 1,000 dancers will perform to the rhythm of the song Kurik Kundi, which was once popularised by Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza Tarudin, the nation’s number one singer. “Enhanced by the rhythmic drumbeats of 400 drummers of diverse ethnic origins, the song will be sung in alternating parts by a group of artistes. Nadeera Zaini will represent the Malay community in the peninsula while Suki Low will represent the Chinese, with Roshini Balachandran representing the Indian community and Zizi Kirana representing Sabah. The arrangement serves as a representation of unity among the people.” Rosnan said National Day event attendees will also have the opportunity to witness a skydiving performance by six VAT69 police commandos displaying the Jalur Gemilang. “They will land right in front of the Palace of Justice Complex in Putrajaya. The public can also look forward to a spectacular aerial display featuring security forces helicopters and acrobatic stunts with 15 vintage motorcycles called ‘Wira Merah’ by the Armed Forces. All these performances are expected to deliver a ‘wow’ factor to visitors.” He said more than 19,000 participants are involved in the National Day 2023 parade and procession. “To ensure the comfort of the expected 100,000 visitors, the logistics team is working to provide multi-level seating facilities.” Putrajaya has been selected as the hosting location for the fifth time, after its initial selection in 2003 and subsequently in 2005, 2018 and 2019. Don’t politicise Merdeka theme, logo: Zahid PUTRAJAYA: Matters concerning patriotism such as the National Day logo and theme should not be politicised, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He was commenting on Perikatan Nasional (PN) Youth chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari’s statement that the four states under PN might use a different National Day logo and theme for state-level celebrations. Ahmad Fadhli also said PN might use elements of the hibiscus for the state-level National Day celebrations. Ahmad Zahid described the move as non-progressive. “This is not about politics. It concerns the flag for celebration Ahmad Zahid taking a penalty kick during the launch of the tournament in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC (for National Day). And I think people should not politicise this matter,” he said after opening the 2023 Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi Cup football tournament yesterday. Meanwhile, Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abd Halim said the proposal to use a different logo and theme for the National Day celebrations in PN-ruled states seems to be politically motivated. He said it should not happen as the National Day celebrations should reflect the spirit of togetherness of all Malaysians. “National Day is a celebration of the entire nation, commemorating the spirit of independence, unity and nationhood. It has nothing to do with political beliefs or ideology. “So, it is inappropriate for any party to propose a different theme for the celebrations,” he told a media conference after launching the Perak-level Fit Malaysia Programme at the Youth and Sports Complex yesterday. Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced in May that the theme for National Day and Malaysia Day 2023 would be Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan, with the Malaysia Madani symbol as the official logo. – Bernama Zambry on maiden official visit to Iran PUTRAJAYA: Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir is on his maiden official visit to Iran from yesterday to Aug 23 at the invitation of his counterpart, Hossein Amirabdollahian. Zambry is expected to pay a courtesy call on Iranian leaders and hold a bilateral meeting with Hossein to follow up on the discussion held on the sidelines of the Ministerial Meeting of the Coordinating Bureau of the Non-Aligned Movement on July 5. “Both ministers are expected to take stock of the progress of existing bilateral cooperation and discuss ways to expand new areas of cooperation. “They are also expected to exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Zambry is also scheduled to hold an engagement session with local business leaders,” said a statement from the Foreign Ministry. The statement added that the visit reflects the commitment of the unity government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim towards enhancing bilateral relations with other countries, including Iran. Zambry will be accompanied by senior government officials from his ministry and business delegations. Iran is Malaysia’s eighthlargest trading partner and the 11th-largest source of imports among West Asian countries. Total trade in 2022 was RM3.69 billion, an increase of 40.2%, compared with RM2.63 billion in 2021. – Bernama Pan Borneo highway Phase 1 82% complete PAPAR: A total of 15 work packages under Phase 1 of the Sabah Pan Borneo highway project have reached 82% completion and are scheduled to be fully completed by January 2025. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said three of the 15 packages were now fully completed and can be used. “Work on 19 packages under Phase 1B have not yet started and are expected to be tendered in the fourth quarter of 2023,” he said after a working visit to the Donggongon Road Upgrade project site, Papar Spurs Phase 2 and 3 and Work Package 04 (Bongawan to Papar) of the Sabah Pan Borneo highway project yesterday. The project, involving 35 work packages along a stretch of 706km starting from the border of Sabah and Sarawak in Sindumin up to Tawau, started in July 2016. Nanta said the government has channelled RM6.5 billion in development allocations to Sabah. He added that the government has also agreed to increase allocations to resolve road issues in the state. – Bernama Focus on restoring peace, says envoy KANGAR: Palestinian Ambassador to Malaysia Walid Abu Ali has pleaded with Malaysians to focus on the main issue in Palestine, which is to restore peace and security in Al-Quds. “In this regard, sectarian issues such as internal politics involving the Palestinian population should not confuse Muslims (in their efforts to) protect and defend the fate of the Palestinians who are facing challenging circumstances,” he said in a statement issued by the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council yesterday. Walid also urged Malaysians to donate to Palestine through official channels such as the Foreign Ministry to ensure that the Palestinian people receive the intended benefits. According to the statement, Walid, who was granted an audience with the Regent of Perlis Raja Muda Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail on Saturday in conjunction with his visit to the state, also presented the matter to the Regent. – Bernama Finalising sports school syllabus JOHOR BAHRU: The Education Ministry is finalising the types of sports suitable for students with special needs to be incorporated into the syllabus for the special education sports school in Negeri Sembilan. Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the school, being constructed in Bandar Enstek and expected to open in 2025, is aimed at discovering the sporting potential and talent of students from the group. “We already have special schools for students with special needs, for example the Bumbong Lima (special education secondary school) in Penang, which focuses on (developing) the skills of these children. “InsyaAllah in 2025, we will be operating a sports school for them that will harness their sports potential so that they too can receive attention in terms of sports development,” she said after an outreach programme. – Bernama

3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 Study, appreciate and understand the Quran Anwar said he will have a discussion with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to follow up on measures to deal with the issue of Islamophobia in New York next month. Regarding MTHQA, he said it is a platform not only for the recitation and memorisation of the Quran but also an effort to increase the understanding of the holy book. Anwar said Muslims should study and appreciate the Quran in order to be able to provide explanations and awareness to the people of various races and religions in this country. MTHQA, which is held until Aug 24, involves two competitions, namely Quran recitation and memorisation. This year’s edition features 76 participants from 52 countries, namely 24 men and 12 women for the recitation category and 27 men and 13 women for the memorisation category. Malaysia has four representatives, namely visually impaired qari (male reciter) Muhammad Qayyim Nizar Sarimi from Kelantan and female reciter Nor Hidayah Abd Rahman from Terengganu for the recitation category, while Ahmad Ikmal Mohd Ridhuan from Johor and Dian Karisma Mohd Japar from Sabah will be taking part in the memorisation contest. Programme to foster appreciation for Rukun Negara PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians will now be made aware not only of the five principles of the Rukun Negara but also of the five ambitions in the pledge. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said in line with the theme of National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations – Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan – the Rukun Negara Exploration programme was launched recently. “This year’s celebration is more meaningful because the Cabinet ministers on July 25 approved the proposal for the recitation of the Rukun Negara to start with the full reading of the preamble (mukadimah) followed by the five principles,” he said. The five ambitions are to achieve and foster better unity among society, preserve a democratic way of life, create a just society where prosperity of the country can be enjoyed together fairly and equitably, ensure a liberal approach towards the rich and varied cultural traditions, as well as build a progressive society that will make use of science and modern technology. Aaron said the Rukun Negara will be recited in full during official government programmes, school assemblies and the opening ceremony of Parliament and the Senate. He said it was important to promote the Rukun Negara, especially among the young generation, so that they would appreciate the true meaning of the pledge. “Rukun Negara needs to be appreciated and understood together with the Federal Constitution, which is the pillar of unity in ethnic, racial and religious diversity. “Appreciating the Rukun Negara will not only instil the spirit of patriotism but also foster unity among multi-racial, multi-ethnic and multi-religion communities,” he said. Aaron also cited the importance of unity in ensuring the country’s progress and competitiveness as well as the successful implementation of the government’s policies, including the Malaysia Madani framework. “Young people are one of the agents of change in forming a capable and integrated country. This group can become superheroes in strengthening the spirit of unity.” Aaron said the ministry is committed to reaching out to the younger generation with the implementation of various relevant programmes, including Unity Debate, Unity Poem and the Rukun Negara Education Symposium. – Bernama Kelantan MB asked to apologise KOTA BHARU: Two state assemblymen in Kelantan have given Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud seven days to issue a public apology for alleging that they have rejected the Islamic struggle. Kota Lama assemblyman Dr Hafidzah Mustakim from Pakatan Harapan (PH) and Galas assemblyman Mohd Syahbuddin Hashim from Barisan Nasional (BN) said they would sue the menteri besar if he failed to apologise. Mohd Syahbuddin said Mohd Nassuruddin’s statement was akin to a culture of accusing another Muslim of being an apostate and could split the people and society. “We are offended by the menteri besar’s statement, which I consider as extreme, and this represents (the feelings of) 10,742 Galas people who voted for BN and 9,691 Kota Lama people who voted for PH,” he said at a joint press conference with Hafidzah here yesterday. Mohd Nassuruddin, in a video which has gone viral, allegedly said the two seats won by PH-BN had gone to parties opposing the Islamic struggle. – Bernama From front page KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has reminded the public to beware of spreading fake news. “MCMC received a total of 1,207 complaints in 2021 and 658 last year regarding fake news. Of these, the sebenarnya.my portal identified 110 articles in 2021 and 45 last year that spread fake news,” its spokesman told theSun, adding that fake news occurs on every social media platform. “Most people read their news on social media platforms and messaging app. This is where the most number of fake news items are propagated. “Hence, we are actively taking measures to promote digital literacy among the public. This is key to managing fake news mainly because social media and the internet have become a medium that almost everyone uses. People need to learn how to use it responsibly,” he said. He added that MCMC has taken proactive measures to foster cyber awareness and encourage internet users to practise selfregulation. “Initiatives such as ‘Klik Dengan Bijak’ and Malaysia ICT Volunteers have been set up by MCMC to promote the use of the internet in a safe, responsible and vigilant environment.” The commission emphasised that the main goal in addressing the issue of fake news is embracing the practice of verifying information. “As digital citizens, media literacy goes beyond awareness. Users must be vigilant about verifying information before sharing it. “They must practise critical thinking skills when evaluating the accuracy, perspective and validity of digital media,” he said. Meanwhile, Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin from the Centre of Media and Information Warfare Studies cited a paper published this June by the University of Cambridge. It used the “Misinformation Susceptibility Test” involving 8,000 participants and found that the most susceptible groups were those under 30 who spent most of their time online. “Youths were found to be more susceptible to misinformation. But it is their responsibility to grow into a strong generation that cannot be easily influenced or deceived,” he said. Noor Nirwandy, who is also a Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) senior lecturer at the Centre of Media and Information Warfare Studies, said there are a few key factors that make youth more susceptible to fake news. “Some youths perceive being first to share news as a competition and they experience an adrenaline rush in doing so. It becomes a silent addiction to disseminate news that they believe must be shared.” However, he said the sheer quantity of information at the fingertips of youths makes it harder to discern between what is fake and true. “The line between satire and reality is blurred. Youths may be incapable of discerning real from fake. The lack of reference centres in Malaysia makes it harder for them to verify information.” Noor Nirwandy said fake news can also threaten national security. “Fake news can trigger panic and racial disharmony among citizens. It may be particularly dangerous when society departs from the national identity of the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara, especially when there are extreme ideological shifts.” To avoid this, he said youths need to be a few steps ahead in understanding the consequences of spreading fake news. “Identify if the news carries underlying motives and use critical thinking skills to decide if the news is worth sharing,” he said. MCMC acts to curb fake news oMeasures taken to promote digital literacy, foster cyber awareness and encourage self-regulation █ BY ETHAN YEO [email protected] Share experiences, civil servants urged ALOR GAJAH: National Unity and Integration Department directorgeneral Datuk Che Roslan Che Daud has called on civil servants who participated in this year’s Jalinan Integrasi Nasional Penjawat Awam programme to share their experiences with their colleagues. He said it was important for civil servants to keep spreading the message of unity, which would help close the gap between communities. According to him, 79 civil servants participated in the programme, which was conducted at two locations, namely in Kampung Gadek, Malacca and Kampung Balung Cocos in Tawau, Sabah. “This programme was designed to strengthen the relationship between selected civil servants from Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, and those in the peninsula. “Participants will stay with their foster families and undergo a three-day cross-cultural programme to bring them closer to the local culture,” he said after attending the closing ceremony of the programme at Balai Raya Kampung Gadek yesterday. – Bernama ROLLING IN STYLE ... Zulfahmi Romaden Zulazmi, eight, participating at a ‘No Car’ event in Shah Alam yesterday in conjunction with National Month. – BERNAMAPIC

4 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME Get a jump start today on creating a successful tomorrow! For the best in local and international higher education institutions, catch theSun's fortnightly Education Focus. FOCUS 2023 EDUCATION Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Govt urged to ensure building safety PETALING JAYA: The Alliance For A Safe Community has urged the government to carry out inspections on all public buildings to ensure they are safe. Its chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said he is making the call as the prevailing culture of infrastructure maintenance is below par. “The poor maintenance culture could be due to insufficient funding, inadequate long-term planning, a shortage of trained staff to carry out periodic inspections, or poor awareness of the need for regular maintenance. oNeed to promote maintenance culture and involve communities in decision-making process, says NGO chairman █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] “Neglecting infrastructure maintenance could have serious consequences for the public and the authorities involved,” he said. Lee added that there is also a misconception among the public that maintenance is less important than other needs. “To change this mindset, it is crucial to increase understanding of the significance of maintenance, involve the community in decision making, and provide incentives to take care of infrastructure.” He said the government needs to promote a maintenance culture through strong leadership and clear communications within the various departments. Involvement of the community and ensuring visible improvements are also the responsibility of the government. “Where relevant, public-private partnerships could also play a role in implementing regular supervision by trained personnel,” he said. Supporting Lee’s call, a private engineering consultancy technical director, Dr Govindaraju Veerappan, said based on his experience, he has noticed unqualified and inexperienced individuals being assigned to important projects due to a shortage of professionals in the field. “Frequent maintenance would be unnecessary if quality products are used and closely monitored during construction. “Comprehensive quality control plans should also be put in place in every project to minimise maintenance requirements. “If the authorities properly maintain completed infrastructure, there is little need for extensive maintenance. However, neglecting to maintain infrastructure would cause significant inconvenience to the public.” Govindaraju said there are numerous documents and personnel involved in the pre-construction phase of an infrastructure project. “The responsibilities of consultants are well-covered but unfortunately, many people do not prioritise standard operating procedures and quality control plans, and these could lead to poor construction and post-construction maintenance.” He said it is important to identify issues early and address them promptly to avoid negative consequences for the authorities. He added that accountability to the public is also essential in government-built infrastructure and if maintenance is neglected, the public should promptly report the matter to prevent potential problems. On negligence by developers, Govindaraju said: “If a project is handed over with multiple defects, and the developers or trained personnel are not held responsible after the standard two-year defect period, the potential negative outcomes could be significant. “This directly affects the owners and the public who enter such buildings. It is important for property purchasers to thoroughly understand the sales and purchase agreement to prevent future inconvenience.” Govindaraju emphasised that it is wise to consult a professional engineer before making a purchase. However, many individuals only seek a second opinion after encountering property damage. He said to hold the government and relevant authorities accountable for neglected maintenance, measures such as regular audits, independent inspections, public reporting systems and transparency in budget allocation should be implemented. Personal effort to instil patriotism KOTA BHARU: To instil a sense of patriotism in society, a retired military captain has opened the Galeri Anjung Pesona Wajah, which showcases pictures of freedom fighters, among other things. Muhamad Awang, 76, said the gallery, housed at his late mother’s home in Kampung Pendek here, was opened in 2005 after his retirement. It features over 5,000 exhibits, including pictures, newspaper clippings and books about national figures, that he started collecting since 1970. “These pictures are related to the Malay sultanate, military, police, Muslim scholars, artists and prominent figures in Kampung Pendek, apart from war equipment that can be used as a reference. “The gallery was also created to commemorate national heroes, including Lt Adnan Saidi, Tok Janggut, Mat Kilau and Datuk Bahaman.” Muhamad said he established the gallery and mini-museum to express his love for Malaysia. It is also to provide a trusted source of historical information for present and future generations. His efforts proved fruitful when the Kelantan State Museum Corporation recognised the gallery as a strategic partner in realising its vision and mission in 2020. “The gallery has become a focal point Muhamad showing a collection of pictures at his gallery. – BERNAMAPIC among military students and those from higher education institutions for conducting research,” said the father of six, who served for 31 years in the military. Muhamad also said the government should review the History syllabus to capture students’ interest and cultivate the spirit of patriotism. “To pique young people’s interest in the subject, we need to use the latest methods that they like, and incorporate historical elements on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok and Instagram,” said Muhamad, who was also the Kestaria Unit former head at Universiti Teknologi Mara in Shah Alam, Selangor. – Bernama Continue Rahmah initiative: Consumers JOHOR BAHRU: The Rahmah Sales programme, initiated by the late Domestic Trade and Cost of Living minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, has successfully benefitted various groups in the country and should be continued. Consumers said the programme has reduced their financial burden by allowing them to purchase necessities at low and reasonable prices. Retired teacher Abdul Razak Abd Rahman, 63, expressed hope that the programme would continue next year. “I think it’s best to continue this programme because it offers low prices and we can reduce our expenses,” he said at the Rahmah Mega Sale at Stadium Bandaraya Pasir Gudang on Saturday. Housewife Rozita Mohd Noor, 48, lauded the initiative, saying that the rising cost of living and price of goods have impacted many people. She also said the programme should be continued. Another consumer, who wished to be known only as Ravi, 29, said the programme not only helped ease the burden of the B40 and M40 groups but also the newly employed and pensioners. The programme has been carried out at 1,229 locations nationwide and benefitted 2.1 million consumers so far. – Bernama

5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 47,000 litres of diesel seized in raid JOHOR BAHRU: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry seized 47,540 litres of diesel and equipment from a syndicate at the Plentong Industrial Estate in Masai here. Its acting minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said a Putrajaya trade enforcement team conducted the raid under “Op Tiris” at a store on Saturday at around 8pm, following a six-month investigation and surveillance. They also arrested a 37-year-old man, who admitted to working as a trailer driver. “The modus operandi of the syndicate was to use several lorries to collect diesel from certain petrol stations along the Pasir Gudang, Masai and Kempas highways and send it to the store for eventual sale on the market. “A tanker, two bonded lorries, a pickup truck and diesel were seized, totalling RM267,457 (in value).” Armizan said in a statement the case is being investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961 to identify the individuals or companies involved in the network and the locations for distribution. “These companies will also be investigated under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. “The ministry will deploy personnel and intensify enforcement and monitoring to combat these illegal activities, especially at petrol stations located near the country’s borders.” – Bernama 14 cops, senior officer held at entertainment centre suspended SEREMBAN: A senior officer and 14 policemen arrested during a raid on Saturday at an entertainment outlet here have been suspended, said Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay. He added that investigation papers would later be handed to the Attorney-General’s Chambers for further action. “They have been suspended, it is a normal process. After being charged, and if convicted, they would be suspended until they exhaust all their (legal) appeals. “The process will take a long time. What is assured is that action has been taken. We will not compromise, oInvestigation papers to be submitted to Attorney-General’s Chambers: Deputy IGP █ BY ETHAN YEO [email protected] Witnesses urged to assist in ongoing crash investigation KLANG: Police have recorded the statements of three dashboard camera owners who were at the scene of a plane crash near Elmina West in Shah Alam on Thursday. Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the case has been categorised as sudden death. “For the Air Accident Investigation Bureau, the (investigation would focus on) the aspects of the crash. “I urge (more) witnesses to come forward and give their statements to complete the investigations,” he said at the Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital Forensic Department yesterday. The body of p-hailing rider Muhamad Hafiz Muhamad Saleh, 32, was buried at the Masjid Al-Huda Islamic Cemetery in Kampung Jerung, Sungai Petani at 4pm on Saturday. The remains of nine other victims in the incident were handed to the next of kin in stages. A Beechcraft Model 390 (Premier 1) business jet crashed onto the Guthrie Corridor Expressway last week, killing 10 individuals including Pahang Local Government, Housing, Environment and Green Technology Committee chairman and Pelangai assemblyman Datuk Seri Johari Harun, 53. – Bernama Do not share videos, says deputy IGP GOMBAK: Police have warned the public not to share videos of any victims involved in the plane crash at the Guthrie Corridor Expressway near Elmina West in Shah Alam last week. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay said legal action will be taken against anyone caught disseminating such recordings. “I urge the public to stop disseminating these things. Respect the privacy of the victims’ family members. We will take action under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 if such activities persist. “If you have these videos, hand them over to us. All sorts of theories abound. Don’t speculate, let the authorities investigate,” he said at the Raudhatul Sakinah Phase 2 Muslim Cemetery yesterday. Ayob Khan said police took statements from three individuals involved in disseminating such recordings, adding that they may call up more individuals to assist in investigations. – Bernama CULTURAL REVELRY ... Two women in kimonos viewing booths at the Japan Expo Malaysia in Pavillion Bukit Jalil yesterday. – SYAZWAN KAMAL/ THESUN regardless of whether those arrested at entertainment centres were police or personnel from other departments, stern actions will be taken,” he said yesterday. A court registrar and DPP were also nabbed during the raid. Ayob Khan confirmed that the duo and 14 of those detained, tested positive for drugs and were released on police bail. He said 741 cases of disciplinary action were recorded this year, with 60 police officers and personnel sacked, indicating the commitment of the Integrity and Standards Compliance Department in handling disciplinary issues. The investigation is being carried out under Section 15 (1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which involves the suspected consumption of drugs not limited to opium and cannabis. Negeri Sembilan police chief Ahmad Dzaffir Yusof earlier confirmed that the Bukit Aman integrity department and state police had conducted a raid, but declined to provide additional details. “I can only confirm that a raid was conducted. The full report is not ready yet.” In July last year, three drug suppliers were arrested and 20 entertainment centres around Kuala Lumpur were raided during a special operation by the Kuala Lumpur Narcotics Crime Investigation Department. In another case, the Magistrate’s Court in Labuan granted a five-day remand order on two policemen to facilitate an ongoing investigation into allegations of corruption. The order was issued by Magistrate Kasyfurrahman Abang Ahmad yesterday. The two, both aged 42 and attached to the Labuan police district narcotics division, were apprehended by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission at around 3pm on Saturday. King, Queen convey condolences over tragedy They were passing through the area at the time of the incident when they were hit by the explosion from the plane crash, Bernama reported. Sharipuddin was buried at the Masjid Jamek Sultan Hisamuddin Cemetery in Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi in Sepang at 12.50pm yesterday while Mohammad Taufiq, who was Johari’s special aide, was buried at the Ukay Perdana Muslim Cemetery at about 1pm . On Saturday, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah sent personal donations to the families of the crash victims. A post on Istana Negara’s Facebook page said the donations were handed by the Comptroller of the Royal Household of Istana Negara, Mejar-Jen Datuk Zahari Mohd Ariffin, who visited the victims’ families at the Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Hospital and Ar-Rahimiah Mosque in Klang. During the visit, Zahari also conveyed condolences on behalf of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah to the families over the sudden departure of their loved ones. “Their Majesties also expressed sadness over the incident and hoped that all the victims’ families would remain strong in facing the ordeal. “Their Majesties pray (the souls of the victims) will be showered with mercy by Allah SWT and placed among the pious,” said the post. From front page

6 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Taiwan VP: Election a choice between democracy and autocracy TAIPEI: Taiwan’s upcoming election is a choice between “democracy or autocracy”, vice-president and frontrunner candidate William Lai said in an interview aired the same weekend China launched military drills around the island. For 24 hours from Saturday to yesterday morning, Beijing sent in 45 warplane incursions – 27 of which crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait – and nine vessels, according to Taiwan’s Defence Ministry. The drills came after Lai made two stopovers in the US – in New York en route to Paraguay and in San Francisco when returning to Taipei – that enraged Beijing. Lai said in an interview with a Taiwanese TV station done while he was in the US that Taiwan cannot accept the “One China” principle. “If we accept the ‘One China’ principle, we might get some short-term ease but when one day China changes its face, we don’t have our sovereignty and the international community can’t help us,” Lai said in the interview that aired on Saturday night. “It would become a civil war and the international community could not help us, just like it’s very hard for the international community to help Hong Kong and Macau. “Sovereignty matters the most.” He added that the election – which will be held next January – is “not a choice between peace and war”. “We can’t order off a menu, choosing peace and then there’s peace, choosing war and then there’s war. That’s not the case. “Instead we have the right to choose whether we want democracy or autocracy. This is the real choice we have to make in this election.” Lai is part of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party – generally regarded as a more pro-Washington compared with the Kuomintang party. – AFP B R I E F SMOST THAIS OPPOSE ‘SPECIAL GOVT’: POLLS BANGKOK: Most Thais disagree with the leading plan for a coalition government including military-backed groups, an opinion poll showed yesterday, two days ahead of a parliamentary vote aiming to end a three-month political stalemate. About 64% of 1,310 respondents disagreed or totally disagreed with the idea of the Pheu Thai party forming a “special government” with military-backed rivals, according to the survey by the National Institute of Development Administration. Pheu Thai, set to nominate real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin as prime minister tomorrow, needs the support of more than half the bicameral legislature. – Reuters JOKOWI TO ATTEND BRICS SUMMIT JAKARTA: Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo departed for South Africa yesterday to attend the BRICS summit in Johannesburg amid speculation that the country could join the group as its latest member. The meeting, which brings together major emerging economies countries led by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, will be held for three days starting tomorrow. “Indonesia has been invited to the BRICS summit and of course in between the BRICS summit there will be meetings with other world leaders,” Jokowi told reporters ahead of his departure. – AFP 11 LABOURERS KILLED IN BOMBING ISLAMABAD: Eleven labourers were killed in a bomb blast in northwestern Pakistan near the border with Afghanistan, a local government official said yesterday. The device exploded after being attached to the vehicle they were travelling in on Saturday evening, said Rehman Gul Khattak, senior government official for North Waziristan. “The labourers were working at an under construction post for the Pakistan army,” he said. “Strongly condemn this senseless act,” said caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. – AFP North Korean hackers target S. Korea-US drills SEOUL: South Korean authorities reported yesterday that suspected North Korean hackers have targeted a joint US-South Korea military exercise taking place this week. However, they stated that classified information has not been compromised. “It was confirmed that military-related information was not stolen,” police said in a statement yesterday. Commencing today, South Korean and US military units will initiate the Ulchi Freedom Guardian summer exercises, spanning 11 days. The purpose of these drills is to enhance their capacity to address the increasing nuclear and missile threats posed by North Korea. North Korea objects to the joint military drills, contending that they are indicative of the US and its South Korean ally preparing for an invasion. oKim recently ordered drastic increase in production of weapons The Gyeonggi Nambu provincial police agency said in a statement that the hackers orchestrated their attack through e-mail correspondence directed at South Korean contractors stationed at the South Korea-US combined exercise war simulation centre. The hackers reportedly have affiliations with a North Korean faction identified by researchers as Kimsuky. North Korea has consistently refuted any involvement in cyberattacks. Researchers have noted that the Kimsuky hackers have employed a longstanding technique of using “spear-phishing” e-mails that aim to No decision on Fukushima water release date: Kishida TOKYO: Japanese premier Fumio Kishida said yesterday his government has not yet decided when to begin releasing treated water from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean. Media reports suggest that the discharge of some of the 1.34 million tonnes of water, which Japan insists is safe, could begin as soon as this month, despite anger from China and concern elsewhere. Speaking at the Fukushima site, wrecked by a tsunami in 2011 in one of the world’s worst atomic accidents, Kishida said he would first meet fishing industry officials to discuss their concerns. “I must refrain from commenting on a concrete timing of the release at this point, as the decision has to be made after the government as a whole looks at measures to do with safety and reputational damage (for the fishing industry). “I hope to meet with fishermen, led by chairman (Masanobu) Sakamoto of Japan’s fisheries cooperative federation.” Many Japanese fishermen are against the release, fearing that it will undo years of efforts to improve the industry’s image in the wake of the 2011 catastrophe. The water, equivalent to more than 500 Olympic swimming pools, has accumulated in the past 12 years from water used to cool three melted-down reactors combined with groundwater and rain. Plant operator Tepco said dangerous radioactive elements have been filtered out and that the water it plans to release is safe. Japan has spent months trying to win over public opinion at home and abroad, with everything from livestreaming fish living in the treated water to efforts to counter online disinformation. Public concern about the plan remains high in South Korea but its government said its review of the plan found it in line with international standards. But China has banned food imports from 10 Japanese prefectures and has imposed stringent radiation tests on food from the rest of the country. – AFP deceive targets into revealing passwords or clicking on attachments or links that introduce malware into their systems. Reuters reported that through a collaborative effort, South Korean law enforcement and the US military conducted a joint inquiry, that revealed that the IP address employed in the hacking endeavour corresponded with one previously linked to a 2014 cyberattack targeting South Korea’s nuclear reactor operator. At that time, South Korea accused North Korea of being behind that cyberattack. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently made another inspection tour of major munitions factories and ordered a drastic increase in the production of missiles and other weapons, days before South Korea and the US begin annual military drills. The Korean Central News Agency said Kim visited factories producing missiles, mobile launch platforms, armoured vehicles and artillery shells on Friday and Saturday. – The Independent 18 burnt to death in Pakistan bus crash ISLAMABAD: At least 18 people burned to death yesterday when a bus smashed into another vehicle carrying diesel in eastern Pakistan. The accident took place on a motorway at around 4.30am (7.30am in Malaysia) near the town of Pindi Bhattian in eastern Punjab province. “Within five minutes, the whole bus was engulfed in flames. Eighteen people burned alive whereas 16 others were injured, of whom four are critical,” said senior police officer Fahad Ahmed. “It seems that the driver of the bus dozed off.” The Suzuki open-back van was carrying drums of diesel and petrol. Ramshackle highways, lax safety measures and reckless driving contribute to Pakistan’s dire road safety record. Passenger buses are frequently crammed to capacity and seatbelts are not commonly worn, meaning high death tolls from single vehicle accidents are common. – AFP WHIRLWIND OF COLOURS ... Dancers performing the Sundanese peacock dance in the West Java city of Bandung. – AFPPIC

7 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 Tens of thousands told to flee as firesscorch Canada OTTAWA: Officials in western Canada’s British Columbia implored tens of thousands of residents to heed evacuation orders on Saturday as “rapidly evolving” wildfires threatened large parts of the scenic Okanagan Valley, including the city of Kelowna. The situation in the popular boating and hiking destination was “highly dynamic”, said the province’s Minister of Emergency Management Bowinn Ma. Around 30,000 people were under evacuation orders while another 36,000 were under alert to be ready to flee, she said. “We cannot stress strongly enough how critical it is to follow evacuation orders when they are issued,” Ma said at an afternoon news conference. “They are a matter of life and death not only for the people in those properties but oTrudeau says situation ‘rapidly evolving and incredibly devastating’ Hurricane barrels towards southwest US MEXICO CITY: Hurricane Hilary hurtled towards Mexico’s Baja California peninsula on Saturday, blanketing the region with heavy rain amid warnings of catastrophic and life-threatening flooding on the US Southwest. One man died in the Baja California Sur state when a family of five was swept away into the sea while crossing a stream, according to a Mexican official, who also shared images of flooded and roads that were swept away in the area. In the US, the hurricane was disrupting flights and sports games. The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) said the hurricane was weakening on its path to the west-central coast of the peninsula on Saturday evening. It predicted it would lose more strength and turn into a tropical storm as it heads towards southern California. But dangerous rains and coastal storm surges remain a major concern, the NHC said, with up to 25cm of rainfall expected in some regions of Baja California and California. “Flash and urban flooding, locally catastrophic, is expected, especially in the northern portions of the peninsula,” the Miami-based agency said in its latest advisory. Rainfall of 8cm to 16cm, with isolated amounts of 25cm, was expected across portions of southern California and southern Nevada as well, the NHC added. “Dangerous to catastrophic flooding is expected.” In the Baja California peninsula, some school and other non-essential activities were cancelled through today, and authorities in Mexico’s second-largest city, Tijuana, urged people in high-risk zones to move to temporary shelters. Images shared on social media showed flash floods in the coastal town of Santa Rosalia, on the eastern side of the Baja California peninsula, with water gushing down what used to be a road, sweeping away a tree. Some 50km south, in the town of Mulege, where the one person died when crossing a stream, municipal president Edith Aguilar Villavicencio said on her Facebook account that the Mexican Navy and local firefighters were rescuing people. As of 0600 GMT (2pm in Malaysia), Hilary was about 700km south-southeast of San Diego, the NHC said. The storm was moving north-northwest at nearly 32kph, packing maximum sustained winds of nearly 135kph. American authorities have warned citizens and businesses to take precautions. Nearly 200 flights scheduled for yesterday and another 184 for today at the San Diego International Airport have been cancelled, according to the FlightAware website. – Reuters B R I E F SNIGER’S MILITARY RULER WARNS AGAINST ANY ATTACK NIAMEY: Niger’s new military ruler said on Saturday that a transition of power would not go beyond three years, and warned that any attack on the country would not be easy for those involved. “Our ambition is not to confiscate power,” Gen Abdourahamane Tiani said. Any transition of power “would not go beyond three years”, he said, adding: “If an attack were to be undertaken against us, it will not be the walk in the park some people seem to think.” “(West African bloc) Ecowas is getting ready to attack Niger by setting up an occupying army in collaboration with a foreign army,” he said. – AFP ECUADOR MAYOR SURVIVES ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT QUITO: The mayor of an Ecuadoran city said on Saturday he was the victim of an attempted assassination, a day before the country goes to the polls in general elections. Francisco Tamariz, the mayor of the coastal town of La Libertad, said he escaped unharmed from the Friday evening attack, in which gunmen fired 30 shots at his vehicle. “They tried to kill me,” Tamariz said on X. In a subsequent Facebook post, Tamariz said he was returning on Friday night from nearby Guayaquil when two gunmen stepped out of a police car and opened fire on his armoured van. “In just seconds, they started to riddle the vehicle with bullets ... without ever asking who was in it,” he said. – AFP Landmark Russian probe crashes on Moon MOSCOW: Russia’s first lunar mission in 47 years failed after its Luna-25 space craft spun out of control and smashed into the Moon. Russia’s state space corporation Roskosmos said it had lost contact with the craft shortly after a problem occurred as the craft was shunted into pre-landing orbit on Saturday. “The apparatus moved into an unpredictable orbit and ceased to exist as a result of a collision with the surface of the Moon,” Roskosmos said in a statement. Failure for the prestige mission underscores the decline of Russia’s space power since the glory days of Cold War competition when Moscow was the first to launch a satellite to orbit the Earth – Sputnik 1, in 1957 – and Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first man to travel into space in 1961. Russia has not attempted a lunar mission since Luna-24 in 1976, when Leonid Brezhnev ruled the Kremlin. Luna-25 was supposed to execute a soft landing on the south pole of the moon on Aug 21, according to Russian space officials. Russia has been racing against India, whose Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft is scheduled to land on the Moon’s south pole this week, and more broadly against China and the United States, which both have advanced lunar ambitions. – Reuters Realtor in dog house over sale to canine TEHRAN: Iranian police have arrested the head of a real estate agency after a viral video showed his firm selling an apartment to a dog, officials said yesterday. In the video, which spread widely over the weekend, an Iranian couple signed a contract transferring title of their apartment to their furry, white, small-breed dog. The animal, named “Chester”, placed its paws on an ink pad with the help of a woman before the contract was stamped. She said in the video that the couple had no “heirs and that they wanted to sell the apartment to the dog”. There is no law banning dog ownership in Iran but, as in many Muslim countries, they are considered unclean. Conservative clerics have advised against keeping them as pets. On Sunday, ISNA news agency reported that the “police launched an investigation” following the video. “The police arrested the head of the real estate agency and shuttered the firm,” said deputy prosecutor-general Reza Tabar. He said the sale seeks to “normalise the violation of the society’s moral values”. – AFP also for the first responders who will often go back to try to implore people to leave.” Kelowna, a city of 150,000, was choked with thick smoke as it became the latest population centre hit by one of the many wildfires scorching Canada this summer. British Columbia alone had 385 active wildfires by Saturday night, according to government data. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he had spoken with British Columbia Premier David Eby about the “rapidly evolving and incredibly devastating wildfire situation” and pledged federal resources in responding to the disaster. Meanwhile, blazes in the neighbouring Northwest Territories have prompted the evacuation of regional capital Yellowknife, leaving the remote city of around 20,000 largely a ghost town. Overnight rains brought some relief to Yellowknife on Saturday. However, “a little rain does not mean it’s safe to come back home”, warned Northwest Territories Environment Minister Shane Thompson. “Though the surface may not show fire, it’s still active and it’s huge,” he said at a Saturday evening news conference, noting that temperatures are expected to rise again. Yellowknife official Chris Greencorn praised the work crews were doing to build defences around the city, with large areas cleared to create firebreaks and pipes laid for sprinklers and water cannon. “Basically this represents approximately two full Yellowknife construction seasons completed in less than six days.” The exodus from Yellowknife and elsewhere means two-thirds of the near-Arctic territory’s population has been displaced, Thompson said. The fires have caused “terrible loss”, Trudeau told reporters after meeting Yellowknife evacuees on Friday as they arrived in Edmonton, Alberta, with no idea when they may return home. In British Columbia, blazes have already destroyed several properties in West Kelowna, among them the Lake Okanagan Resort, according to local media. The historic property is known for having hosted high-profile visitors such as British ex-prime minister Margaret Thatcher. – AFP COMING OF AGE ... Young Maasai men confronting an elder as part of the ceremonial activities during the Eunoto ceremony in a remote area near the Kenyan town of Kilgoris. The Eunoto ceremony is a rite of passage that marks the transition from Moran (young warrior) to adulthood as junior elders. The ceremony is held by all clans every eight to 10 years and marks a new age-set. – AFPPIC

8 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 SPEAK UP Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesundaily.my/ @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME Unmasking burnout I N today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, burnout has become a prevalent issue that can greatly impact employees and organisations. Gallup’s State of the Workplace report found that although the world has recovered from the worst of the pandemic, employee stress remained at a record-high level, with 44% of employees experiencing stress. Similarly, a Future Forum Pulse report found that burnout is on the rise globally, with 42% of the workforce reporting burnout, an all-time high since May 2021, when Future Forum started measuring burnout. By recognising the causes and symptoms of burnout, organisations and leaders can take proactive measures to create a supportive work culture that promotes employee engagement and satisfaction, in turn retaining top talent and ensuring productivity levels. Understanding impact Burnout is more than just feeling exhausted or overwhelmed; it is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Burnout can show in various ways – physically, emotionally and mentally. Physical indications include chronic fatigue, headaches and insomnia, while emotional ones may comprise feelings of cynicism, irritability and a lack of motivation, among others. People suffering from burnout may also have difficulty concentrating, have memory problems and experience a decline in decision-making abilities. When employees experience burnout, their productivity and performance suffer, leading to decreased engagement and increased turnover rates. Warning signs Recognising the warning signs of burnout is essential for identifying at-risk employees and preventing further decline in productivity. While the signs of burnout may vary from person to person, there are several common indicators that employers should be aware of. One of the most apparent signs is a noticeable decline in performance. Employees who were once highly productive and engaged may start missing deadlines, submitting subpar work or exhibiting a lack of enthusiasm for their tasks. Additionally, increased absenteeism or frequent sick leaves can be a red flag for burnout. Another common warning sign is a shift in attitude or behaviour. Burnout can lead to feelings of cynicism, detachment and negativity towards work. Employees may become more irritable, easily frustrated or show signs of disengagement, such as avoiding social interactions or isolating themselves from colleagues. Prevention Burnout may seem a personal struggle but it can have a big impact on people and organisations. Some measures that organisations can take to prevent burnout and promote positive employee engagement are: Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to prioritise their well-being by establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life. Provide rest and rejuvenation: Emphasise the importance of taking breaks and vacations to recharge. Encourage employees to disconnect from work during non-working hours and support their efforts to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Promote supportive work culture: Create an environment where open communication, trust and collaboration are encouraged. Build strong relationships with employees and provide resources for them to seek help and support when needed. Recognise and appreciate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate employees’ accomplishments to boost morale and motivation. Regularly provide feedback and recognition for their contributions, helping them feel valued and appreciated. Offer professional development opportunities: Support employees’ growth and career aspirations by providing training programmes, mentorship and access to skills development. This enhances their job satisfaction and increases their sense of purpose and engagement. Conclusion Unmasking burnout and addressing its warning signs is essential for organisations to retain top talent and boost productivity. By understanding the causes and symptoms of burnout, organisations can proactively implement strategies to prevent burnout and create a supportive work environment, retaining their top talent, enhancing productivity and driving organisational success. The writer is the founder and managing director of Aisling Group, an integrated talent solutions company. Comments: [email protected] Disconnecting from work during nonworking hours can help maintain a healthy work-life balance. – ASYRAF RASID/ THESUN Does higher debt bode ill for the economy? MALAYSIA’S national debt as a percentage of its gross domestic product (GDP) is projected to rise steadily from now until 2028 by three percentage points, reaching 69.97% in 2028. This is a concerning trend, especially considering that in 2020, the country’s debt had already increased from 67.72% to 69.31% of GDP. The mounting national debt has raised questions about its repercussions for the economy. When comparing Malaysia with other Asean countries, we find that Singapore, a developed nation, recorded the highest government debt-toGDP ratio. As of the fourth quarter of 2022, the country’s ratio reached 167.80% and remained relatively unchanged at 167.70% in the first quarter of 2023. Nevertheless, Malaysia’s government debt-toGDP ratio is more moderate than Singapore’s, but it is still a cause for concern. It stood at 60.30% in the fourth quarter of 2022, slightly increasing to 61.80% in the first quarter of 2023. The impact of higher public debt on the economy depends on how the borrowed funds are utilised. If the debt is channelled into productive investments, it can yield significant benefits for the country. For example, funding infrastructure projects, such as roads, schools and hospitals can stimulate economic activity, create job opportunities and attract further investments. These productive investments lead to increased tax revenues and enhanced economic productivity, which, in turn, can help reduce the burden of the government’s debt. Conversely, if the debt is used for unproductive investments, it can be detrimental to the debt level and overall economic health. Allocating resources to non-essential projects that do not contribute to economic growth or revenue generation can strain the country’s finances without producing tangible benefits. The government should prioritise productive investments to ensure sustainable fiscal management and reduce public debt while carefully avoiding wasteful spending. Therefore, Malaysia should spend wisely to avoid placing a financial strain on the country. We should carefully weigh the benefits and costs of spending on projects. If the projects yield net benefits, we can consider investing in them. However, we should avoid allocating government funds if the projects do not provide tangible benefits. Amri Sulong Lecturer Polytechnic Seberang Perai and Dr Mohd Shahidan Shaari Senior lecturer Universiti Malaysia Perlis LETTERS [email protected] “By understanding the causes and symptoms of burnout, organisations can proactively implement strategies to prevent burnout and create a supportive work environment, retaining their top talent, enhancing productivity and driving organisational success. COMMENT by Melissa Norman

9 SPEAK UP theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 Leading the way in punctuality IN today’s competitive global landscape, a major factor in ensuring Malaysia’s success is time management. This is especially important for high-ranking officials helming our institutions in the public and private sectors. Instances of prominent figures arriving late for meetings, dinners and conferences have become all too common. This practice needs to be addressed urgently. Habitual tardiness can have far-reaching repercussions on the nation. Such behaviour can inadvertently jeopardise productivity, efficiency and competitiveness, and must be stopped. These senior officials are entrusted with setting a positive example and should consistently demonstrate punctuality. The adage “time is money” is more relevant now than ever as we strive to recover from the setbacks caused by Covid-19. The infamous notion of “Malaysian time” must be put to rest. Segambut Member of Parliament, Hannah Yeoh, is a perfect example from whom we can learn valuable lessons in time management. However, individuals like her are in the minority. Efficient time management from all quarters is pivotal for enhancing productivity and efficiency. This will enable our nation to attain and sustain its competitiveness. Excuses, such as traffic congestion, lose their credibility when tardiness becomes habitual. Apologising does not make up for the loss of productive time or enhance efficiency. Few are willing to confront this problem directly. Because no one is willing to “bell the cat”, the issue of punctuality and time management will persist. This culture of tardiness extends even to press conferences, sports events and social gatherings, where participants are often left with no alternative but to endure the wait. I recently attended a dinner at a restaurant with a foreign friend, who was keen to be on time, and we arrived at 6.55pm. Despite the invitation clearly stating the start time of “7pm”, some guests arrived as late as 9pm. It is disheartening to see that our society regards such behaviour as typical. These practices are often overlooked and taken for granted. It is time we change this outdated mindset. We need to ensure that individuals who are consistently late face consequences while also acknowledging those who are consistently punctual. However, implementing this can be challenging, particularly when it involves senior officials. Every person’s time holds value, and the culture of punctuality must be actively promoted. Our influential figures should take the lead in setting an example. The culture of punctuality is not merely a matter of personal discipline, it is a reflection of respect for others’ time. Senior officials wield significant influence over societal norms and behaviours. When they consistently prioritise punctuality, it sends a powerful message to the rest of the population. It signifies that being on time is not just a matter of courtesy but a reflection of professionalism and commitment to the greater good. Dr Pola Singh LETTERS [email protected] I N the mesmerising world of cinema, where dreams come to life on the silver screen, a curious intersection between art and adoration emerges: the phenomenon of idolising actors. As the glittering lights of the entertainment industry cast their enchanting glow, the line between appreciating an artist’s craft and elevating them to the pedestal of idols becomes increasingly blurred. Just as ancient cultures revered deities and icons, modern society is often drawn to the larger-than-life personas of actors, mirroring a timeless human inclination towards idol worship. Superstar Rajnikanth, the unrivalled recipient of adoration and worship from his ardent South Indian fans, now finds himself in an unfamiliar role in his latest movie that is storming the box office. I fail to understand such blind following, even though I, too, am a fan of Rajinikanth. Like the transition of seasons, his prominence has waned, and his latest movie titled Jailer, lays bare this new reality. In this cinematic tale, he assumes the persona of a retired law enforcer turned avenger. A father driven by the tragic loss of his son, he casts aside the very principles he once instilled in his own flesh and blood – honesty and integrity. The corridors of justice he once defended with unwavering dedication are now tread upon for personal vendetta, a conundrum veiled in its enigma. The plot, entangled within the paradox of its own making, illuminates the intricate dance between virtue and vice, leaving us to contemplate the kaleidoscope of contradictions that colour our human nature. Catering to the voracious appetite of contemporary movie enthusiasts, those who relish the spectacle of crimson cascades as lives intertwine in ruthless conflict, this film emerges tainted with a stark reality. It is a canvas that exposes the unsettling underbelly of the director’s ambitions, stretching to extremes in their bid to satiate the thirst for brutality among Indian cinema-goers. The screen itself seems to bear witness to this unholy alliance between directorial intent and the insatiable yearnings of the audience, manifesting as a cinematic creation marred by the unapologetic exhibition of gore and violence. In 2016, I reviewed Rajinikanth’s movie Kabali and my opinion remains unchanged: he seems past his prime for the cinema. His energy is lacking, not delivering the Rajinikanth we anticipated. It may be best for him to retire gracefully. Dominating the screen does a disservice to the audience, except for hardcore Rajinikanth fans who may enjoy it. It is time for a bow, both for the sake of moviegoers and his legacy. Rajinikanth, often referred to as “Thalaivar” (meaning leader or boss), holds an iconic status in South India that borders on reverence similar to that of a demigod. Reasons are aplenty, ranging from his film legacy in the industry spanning decades and covering a wide variety of genres to his ability to effortlessly transition between roles, from a hero to an anti-hero, and his unique style of delivery, which has left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. Additionally, Rajinikanth’s on-screen persona resonates deeply with the masses. His larger-than-life presence, flamboyant style and charismatic dialogue delivery have made him a symbol of power and heroism. In person, despite his massive stardom, Rajinikanth is known for his humility and down-to-earth nature, where he maintains a simple lifestyle and remains connected with his roots, and is spiritually inclined. Just like the star of yesteryears MGR (M. G. Ramachandran), Rajinikanth’s philanthropic activities have earned him respect beyond his acting career. His contributions to various social causes, including education and healthcare, have endeared him to the public. All these factors and much more have contributed to Rajinikanth’s status as a revered figure in South India. His impact on both the film industry and the cultural fabric of the region has solidified his position as an almost mythical figure, evoking admiration and devotion from his fans. Having said that, India’s penchant for celebrating and idolising cinema heroes and heroines may seem out of sync with the 21st century’s changing social dynamics and values. The exuberant admiration directed towards these figures can be viewed as a complex mix of tradition, entertainment and cultural norm. In essence, while the flamboyance surrounding cinema heroes and heroines may appear somewhat incongruous with the evolving values of the 21st century, it is essential to approach this topic with nuance. India’s relationship with its film industry is deeply rooted in culture, tradition and the need for entertainment. As societal attitudes shift, the portrayal of cinema stars may align more closely with the changing expectations and values of the times. The phenomenon of idolising individuals, including figures, such as Rajinikanth, can indeed be viewed through the lens of misplaced interests and priorities, especially in today’s context. Why? Because elevating cinema stars to the status of idols can divert attention away from pressing societal problems, such as poverty, education, healthcare and social inequality. Focusing on the glamour and persona of a celebrity may overshadow the need for collective efforts to address these issues. Furthermore, idolising celebrities can perpetuate superficial value systems centred around appearances, wealth and fame. This can impact people’s selfesteem and aspirations as they may prioritise external attributes over more substantial qualities, such as character, empathy and integrity. I think the movie’s success at the box office is attributed solely to the superstar factor. Yet, in an era marked by overtones, values and pressing global challenges, the need to re-evaluate this inclination takes centre stage. It beckons us to reflect upon whether the fervent adulation bestowed upon screen idols aligns with the evolving priorities and aspirations of our interconnected world. Comments: [email protected] Rethinking celebrity worship “Idolising celebrities can perpetuate superficial value systems centred around appearances, wealth and fame. This can impact people’s selfesteem and aspirations as they may prioritise external attributes over more substantial qualities , such as character, empathy and integrity. Rajinikanth holds an iconic status in South India that borders on reverence similar to that of a demigod. – REUTERSPIC

10 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 MEDIA & MARKETING 7-11 celebrates My7E Apps’ birthday with a slew of promotions KUALA LUMPUR: 7-Eleven Malaysia commemorates the joyous occasion of My7E Apps’ birthday on Aug 8. In honour of this significant milestone, 7-Eleven unveiled to their member base, composed of 1.8 million on the My7E Apps, a spectacular lineup of exciting promotions and rewards, ensuring an unforgettable experience for their valued customers. “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and My7E Apps’ birthday celebration is the perfect occasion to show our appreciation for their continuous support and loyalty,“ said Chin Hor Wai, General Manager of Marketing at 7-Eleven Malaysia. During the festivities, members of the My7E App can dive into an assortment of irresistible evoucher deals, e-stamp buy offers, and many more. They will be able to enjoy 100 e-Voucher Deals, offering discounts of up to 50% on a variety of products, including Dutch Lady Juicy Milk, Hershey’s Bar chocolate, Mi Sedap Cup, Ribena drinks range, Lipton drinks range, Mr Potato snacks, Chipsmore, Coca-Cola, Nescafe, Boots Vitamin C range, and much more. The product offerings change weekly. Additionally, they can enjoy a complimentary Marvel Mug for every 7 e-Stamps collected, receive 1 e-Stamp for purchases of RM15 and above, collect 3 e-Stamps to redeem a selected 7- Eleven product for free, and receive a free s e l e c t e d product with the collection of 6 e-Stamps. T h e s e promotions are available across 7 - E l e v e n ’ s product brands, including the Snack Range, S a n d w i c h Range, Hot Coffee Range, Ice Coffee Range, Onigiri Range, and Slurpee. Besides that, new My7E App members will be greeted with a fantastic surprise: 300 free points when they sign up. Birthday month promotions, Lifestyle rewards, Triple point rewards for 7-Eleven Brand products, Lifetime membership benefits, and many more surprises are in the apps to enhance the overall experience. “As a loyal member of My7E apps since its launch, I have enjoyed incredible savings and rewards from my purchases. The app has consistently offered me great value, allowing me to a c c u m u l a t e points with e v e r y transaction and redeem these points to secure discounts on my bill. With My7E For my b i r t h d a y celebration, I am thrilled to discover an abundance of rewards and promotions that I can benefit from,“ said Nur Amirah, a member of My7E apps. For more information and to access the wonderful world of My7E Apps promotions, visit onelink.to/99uskh or scan the QR code below and experience the joy of countless promotions and rewards. My7e Birthday celebration. UTAR Malaysia joins forces with TusSTAR THE University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and TusStar Malaysia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the UTAR Sungai Long Campus to enhance information sharing through staff visits, seminars, and industry events. TusSTAR represents a large incubator network, providing innovative services across all stages of startup enterprises, and the MOU facilitates student industrial visits, staff exchanges, and skill training to enrich learning, provide career development opportunities for students, offer entrepreneurship platforms, and foster business talent through training and competitions. UTAR President Prof. Datuk Ewe Hong Tat said, “Today, we are delighted to renew our partnership with TusStar. Our connection goes back to 2017, when UTAR signed a memorandum of understanding with Tus Holdings in Beijing’s TusPark. In 2020, amidst the pandemic, TusStar generously donated supplies. Now, building on this, we continue this partnership through the MoU, promoting exchanges, staff internships, curriculum enhancement, industry engagement, skill training, student career growth, and entrepreneurship platforms. Today’s ‘Entrepreneurial Star Forum’ furthers this spirit, featuring talks, showcases, and discussions to ignite students’ innovative and entrepreneurial spirits, supported by TusStar’s incubation resources for their entrepreneurial journey.” Ravenna Chen, TuStar’s Malaysia CEO, said, “UTAR is renowned for its commitment to high-quality education and comprehensive student development. “TusStar is an enterprise that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, offers practical experiences for young individuals, helps them apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, and cultivates innovative thinking and problemEntrepreneurship students in discussion. – UTAR solving skills. Thus, both entities will continue to collaborate on projects, promoting interdisciplinary cooperation, fostering incremental innovation, and creating more entrepreneurial prospects.” The MoU signing ceremony was followed by the EntrepreneurStar Forum, which was conducted for the staff and students of UTAR. Ms. Ravenna Chen delivered a talk titled “Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Helping Youth Realise Their Dreams in the Belt and Road Initiative” at the forum. Raveena highlighted TusStar’s internationalisation work, which consists of five modules: the transformation of university achievements, industrial empowerment, start-up landing, overseas corporate project docking, and overseas high-level talent introduction. “TusStar offers young entrepreneurs resources and mentorship, guiding them to develop creative ideas into viable businesses,“ she said. Moreover, a roundtable discussion was held after the presentation session. The round table discussion was aimed at allowing participants to discuss and ask questions regarding business with the selected mentors. The mentors were the General Manager of Entrepreneur Growth Hub, Shaun Yeoh; Chief Executive Officer of Strongbox Tech Sdn Bhd, Ng Hong Liang; Co-Founder of EntreVestors Sdn Bhd, KenGy Ng; founder of Speakers’ Valley, Tay Vui Kit; Strategy CEO, Office of Incite; and Associate Director, Shefa Nicholas Kew.

KLCI 1,446.09 STI 3,173.93 HANG SENG 17,950.85 SCI 3,131.95 NIKKEI 31,450.76 175.24 TSEC 16,381.31 KOSPI 2,504.50 S&P/ASX200 7,148.10 2.10 MONDAY AUGUST 21, 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 AUGUST 18, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) PARKSON 121,063,900 29.5 +7.5 HONGSENG 100,056,700 6.0 -0.5 AIMFLEX 81,579,200 21.5 -0.5 UEMS 69,808,300 62.0 -1.0 KNM 61,808,500 9.5 +2.0 EXCHANGERATES AUGUST 18, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.7035 4.5705 4.5670 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0340 2.9140 2.8970 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4640 3.3660 3.3540 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4700 3.3790 3.3710 1 EURO 5.1250 4.9620 4.9450 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8010 2.6980 2.6810 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4640 3.3660 3.3540 1 STERLING POUND 6.0140 5.8290 5.7950 1 SWISS FRANC 5.3460 5.2250 5.1970 100 UAE DIRHAM 129.6300 122.9600 122.9300 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.3730 4.1040 3.9090 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 64.6000 62.2000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 60.7500 57.7500 57.6200 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.7500 5.4000 5.2100 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0319 0.0289 0.0239 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.2410 3.1400 3.1110 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 15.8000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.6200 1.5100 1.3100 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.4200 7.9400 7.7600 100 QATAR RIYAL 130.5800 123.9600 123.9200 100 SAUDI RIYAL 126.9000 120.4700 120.4300 100 THAI BAHT 13.8900 12.3300 11.9000 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY August 18, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,661.56 -18.01 FBMKLCI 1,446.09 -1.89 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 561.01 -0.38 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 167.27 -0.40 CONSTRUCTION 176.23 -2.07 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,254.10 -39.36 ENERGY 815.26 +0.39 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 580.69 -1.19 HEALTH CARE 1,700.95 -9.38 TRANSPORTATION 924.59 +3.55 PROPERTY 816.29 -3.86 PLANTATION 6,995.80 +74.94 FBMSHA 10,873.51 -3.91 FBMACE 5,264.14 -49.40 TECHNOLOGY 63.22 -0.57 TURNOVER VALUE 3.187 BIL RM2.115 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS AUGUST 18, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM IHS046000824 220 102.00 +4.10 NESTLE 147,100 132.00 +0.50 RAPID 60,000 23.30 +0.46 IMASPRO 466,000 5.59 +0.40 MCEMENT 7,867,000 3.87 +0.40 5 TOP LOSERS AUGUST 18, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM MPI 97,200 26.78 -0.42 PETDAG 310,800 22.50 -0.22 HEIM 216,700 26.38 -0.20 KLCC 419,900 6.76 -0.14 GREATEC 551,500 4.50 -0.13 Participation 26.2 40.8 33.0 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 559.4 895.1 660.9 2115.4 Sold RM m 547.4 831.9 736.1 2115.4 Net RM m 12.0 63.2 -75.2 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) 18/8/2023 Malaysia’s 2023 GDP projected to grow at 4-4.3% KUALA LUMPUR: Analysts have projected Malaysia’s economy to expand between 4.0% and 4.3% in 2023, and have mixed views on the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) following slower-than-expected gross domestic product (GDP) growth in the second quarter (Q2) of the year. On Saturday, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) announced that the Malaysian economy grew moderately at 2.9% year-onyear (y-o-y) in Q2 against 5.5% y-o-y in Q1. BNM governor Datuk Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour was optimistic that the economy remains on track to achieve the targeted growth of 4% to 5% this year, backed by the labour market’s continued recovery, implementation of projects and rising tourism activities. RHB Bank Bhd economist Chin Yee Sian and associate research analyst Wong Xian Yong said Q2 GDP was weaker than the Bloomberg consensus estimate of 3.3% y-o-y and their in-house forecast of 3.5% y-o-y, as growth was dragged by weakness in external demand, coupled with normalisation of consumer spending on the domestic front. They revised their 2023 GDP growth forecast to 4.3% y-o-y from 5% y-o-y earlier, as they expect moderation in consumer spending to continue in the third quarter. “Contraction in export data on a y-o-y basis is likely to be extended into Q3 2023 as well,” they said in a note. On OPR prospects, Chin and Wong anticipated that BNM would keep the benchmark rate unchanged at 3% during its September meeting. “Our 2023 peak OPR forecast is maintained at 3.25%, with the balance of risk tilting towards 3%,” they said. Meanwhile, MIDF Research kept its 2023 GDP forecast at 4.2% y-o-y, as it expects the strength in domestic demand to be the main driver for the growth. – Bernama Kerjaya Prospek’s revenue, net profit rise in Q2 KUALA LUMPUR: Kerjaya Prospek Group Bhd recorded an increase of 10.65% in net profit to RM31.57 million for the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 (Q2’23) compared with RM28.54 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, due to higher progress billings underpinned by improved construction works. Revenue rose 11.69% to RM309.28 million compared with RM276.92 million in the same quarter last year. For its six-month period, net profit increased 6.25% to RM60.98 million from RM57.40 million. Revenue jumped 5.02% to RM606.52 million from RM577.51 million, mainly due to higher progress billings as a result of improvement in progress of construction work activities. For the period, the group’s construction segment continued to be the main revenue contributor at 99.8% and the trend is expected to continue. It declared a second interim single-tier dividend of 2 sen per share in respect of the financial year ending Dec 31, 2023, payable █ BY GLORIA HARRY BEATTY [email protected] JAKARTA: Asean economic ministers have endorsed a carbon neutrality strategy aligning with Paris Agreement commitments and could unlock a US$5.3 trillion (RM24.6 trillion) economic opportunity. The Asean Strategy for Carbon Neutrality aims to foster green industries, set standards, and reduce emissions through eight collaborative strategies. The strategy, supported by the Australia for Asean Futures (AUS4Asean) Initiative, requires urgency in achieving carbon neutrality for a green transformation, the ministers said in a joint statement following their 55th Asean Economic Ministers’ oRegional grouping aims to foster green industries, set standards and reduce emissions through eight collaborative strategies 1.89 22.82 375.78 31.79 135.35 15.35 Meeting in Semarang, Indonesia. The ministers said that addressing Asean’s carbon burden not only mitigates risks but also offers substantial socioeconomic opportunity. Facing notable climate risks, they said, unchecked climate change could lead to an 11% reduction in regional gross domestic product (GDP) by 2100 and displace 87 million people in flood-prone areas across Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. “In contrast, pursuing carbon neutrality could yield a GDP value-add of US$3 to US$5.3 trillion by 2050, attract green investments worth US$3.7 to US$6.7 trillion, and generate 49 to 66 million additional jobs, based on analysis by the Boston Consulting Group. “The economic benefits would be distributed across Asean countries,” they said. Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam might experience GDP growth of 9% to 12%, while Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand could see growth of 4% to 7%. Singapore and Brunei could improve by 1% to 2%. To achieve its carbon neutrality goals, the ministers said, Asean must bridge a 2.6 gigatonne carbon dioxide gap. They noted that despite having low per capita emissions, the region’s role as a financial hub is growing, with investments projected to double to over US$2.1 trillion by 2030 from US$962 billion in 2023. “The region’s diverse economies also offer collaborative prospects for achieving carbon neutrality, with hydropower-rich nations contributing zero-carbon energy, some countries having resources for greentech nickel batteries, and others excelling in the electric vehicle industries,” they said. The ministers said the endorsed strategy will now move towards adoption by the Asean Economic Community Council and will be recognised by the Asean leaders at the 23rd Asean Summit next month. Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, representing Malaysia at the meeting, said that these strategies will shape a more prosperous and sustainable future for Asean. – Bernama on Oct 6. This brings the total dividend declared to date to 4 sen per share for the current financial year. CEO and executive director Tee Eng Tiong (pic) said that following the full resumption of construction site activities and the increased in workforce given the inflow of foreign workers, the group’s financial performance is slowly returning to pre-pandemic levels with continuous revenue recognition from its construction segment. He added that year to date, the group has secured a total of RM983.8 million worth of contracts, which included a RM404.4 million contract from BCM Holdings Sdn Bhd for construction works in relation to a proposed residential development project in Kuala Lumpur. “We are now very close to achieving our target win of RM1.2 billion worth of contract for this financial year and will continue our efforts to reach our goal. We are also gradually expanding towards infrastructure projects with our two recent contracts received from Eastern & Oriental Express Sdn Bhd and Persada Mentari Sdn Bhd with accumulative sum of RM46 million. “These contract wins essentially showcase the industry’s confidence in Kerjaya’s execution strength, expertise and track record. With this, the group’s outstanding order book stood at RM4.5 billion as of June 30, 2023,” Tee said. He added that with the conclusion of the recent state elections, the group is positive that Malaysia will achieve political stability and attract more foreign direct investments (FDI). “The increase in FDI may, therefore, translate into more construction job opportunities for Kerjaya Prospek in the near future,” he remarked. Kerjaya Prospek will launch its new project, Yakinland Development, in the second half of this year. As at June 30, the group’s balance sheet remained healthy with a net cash of RM203.7 million and a current ratio of four times. Asean carbon neutrality can unlock US$5 trillion potential

12 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 SUNBIZ READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME DearTime reshapes insurance sector via fully digital strategy PETALING JAYA: DearTime Sdn Bhd is reshaping the insurance landscape through an entirely digital strategy. According to founder and CEO Jon Ng (pic), the life insurance provider, which started operations last year through Bank Negara Malaysia’s Fintech Regulatory Sandbox, aims to bridge the penetration gap by offering affordable, accessible and userfriendly insurance products fully through a digital approach. “Only four out of 10 Malaysians have life insurance. Life insurance penetration is low because insurance is seen as expensive, complicated and inaccessible. DearTime aims to solve people’s problems in insurance through being fully digital,” he told SunBiz. What sets DearTime apart is its commitment to maximising benefits for policyholders. Unlike traditional models where a significant portion of fees goes to intermediaries, DearTime redirects a substantial percentage of charges back to policyholders. “For other companies, a huge percentage of the fee goes to the agents, whereas with DearTime, it can be redirected to helping the policyholders,” Ng said. He noted that cheaper medical cards may seem to be a budgetfriendly choice, oCompany redirects a substantial percentage of charges back to policyholders █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] but they often sacrifice crucial coverage, leaving policyholders vulnerable when it matters most, such as kidney disease and cancer treatments. Ng said DearTime’s primary focus does not lie in seeking disruption, but rather in addressing people’s needs. “Our aim is simple, to provide solutions to problems. But in the process of this, a lot of things that we need to do to solve people’s problems is something that is very different. This difference may unintentionally appear as disruptive to others.” He said time will be the ultimate judge, as whether or not it is labelled disruptive hinges on others’ responses to its initiatives. “If they opt to compete with us, it signals that our impact has indeed created a stir, drawing interest from customers seeking similar solutions. Our objective remains the same, which is ensuring people find solutions to their problems. Any d i s r u p t i o n that follows is a result of b r i n g i n g a b o u t meaningful change.” DearTime has pledged to provide comprehensive coverage for even the most severe preexisting conditions, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the health of every individual. “Currently we only cover those without pre-existing conditions but we are working on also covering those with pre-existing conditions. We will also launch our monthly model because the yearly model can be quite difficult for the B40 and the M40,” he added. Ng disclosed that DearTime is aiming to obtain Bank Negara Malaysia’s Digital Insurers And Takaful Operators (DITO) status. “(An example) potentially digital banks will be good to collaborate with because they provide micro loans and micro credit, we can provide insurance to cover them. There is synergy I can see there,” he said. To qualify for DITO status, stringent capital requirements must be met to ensure financial stability. During the foundational phase, a licensed DITO is required to at all times to maintain a minimum paidup capital of RM40 million. When asked about growth prospects, Ng outlined a sustainable trajectory for DearTime. “We target to gain enough to cover what we need (for the short term). For us to be qualified for the DITO licence, we need to prove sustainability as well. Eventually we need to capture a significant percentage in comparison to the market, so that we can prove sustainability.” However, he acknowledged, “I will say it is not easy (to grow) even for incumbent insurance companies because insurance is usually tends to be sold and not bought”. Currently its lead investor is Areca Capital – a home-grown investment company – which he implied is quite stable with funding from Norway, which has one of the biggest retirement funds in the world. “We are now opening up for the next series of funding. We are hoping to get strategic investors …. because we want to have business partnership and synergy that we can work together to grow our business,” Ng said. Regarding shariah compliance, he said, “When we established DearTime, our initial goal was to launch a takaful company. However, due to timing considerations, we began with offering conventional life insurance first. “Moving forward with the DITO initiative, we intend to apply for licences to operate both takaful (shariah-compliant insurance) and conventional life insurance.” The inception of DearTime finds its roots when Bank Negara Malaysia introduced Direct Distribution Channels for Pure Protection Products in 2015. “That’s when I realised that to truly solve these problems, I couldn’t rely on anyone else – I had to tackle it myself, alongside my team. That’s why we embarked on the journey with DearTime,” said Ng. Tax residence for companies and LLPs explained RESIDENCE is basically determining where the company or LLP’s home is for tax purposes. Whenever you undertake international transactions, whether it is commercial or financial, one of the questions that has to be answered in any dealings with the bankers or trade partners is the location of your residence, because your residence status will have an impact on the transaction and the parties transacting with yourself. In Malaysia, the tax treatment of a resident company and LLP is different from a non-resident. The key differences are in the area of tax rates, scope of taxes, withholding taxes, incentives, enjoyment of any specific exemptions, and entitlement to bilateral or unilateral tax credit. Non-residents cannot enjoy the SME tax rates of 15% and 17%. They will be subject to the normal corporate tax rate of 24%. Dividends distributed by non-resident companies are not deemed to be derived from Malaysia. Non-residents also benefit from the Malaysia double tax agreements to avoid double taxation. The big disadvantage of being a non-resident is the impact of withholding taxes on any transactions the nonresident company or LLP undertakes with a Malaysian entity. Generally, interest and royalty payments made by a Malaysian entity to a non-resident will be subject to withholding taxes. Any payments for services rendered by non-residents in Malaysia will also attract withholding tax. Similarly, any service portion of longer-term projects will also be subject to withholding tax. Overall, Malaysian resident entities dealing with non-residents will have to be very careful to ensure that proper withholding taxes are deducted. Otherwise, the Malaysian payer will be denied the deduction of the expenditure and will be accountable for the withholding tax together with any late payment penalties. Tax incentives under the Income Tax Act 1967 and the Promotion of Incentives Act will not be available to non-residents. Determining residence Residence is based on where the management and control of the company is, or in the case of LLPs, it is where the management and control of its affairs are exercised by its partners. It is a question of fact. It is usually based on where the board of directors or the partners meet to take key management and commercial decisions that are necessary for the conduct of the entity’s business is made. The authorities are looking at the place where the effective management is exercised. This is evidenced by the location of where the board of directors make their decisions. Dual residence It is possible for companies and LLPs to have dual residence. In such an event, you need to look at the double tax treaty and look at the tiebreaker rules. Usually this is resolved by reviewing the actions taken by the parties in the different location and the residence is usually aligned to the location where the key policy decisions are taken. Points to note Once a company or LLP has established its residence in Malaysia, its residence status will automatically continue until the contrary is proved. The evidence needed to support the residence status is usually the constitution of the company, minutes of board meetings, company’s letterhead, and locations of other important meetings etc. Many countries require a certificate of residence to enjoy the double tax treaty benefits such as a lower rate of withholding tax. This can be obtained from the Inland Revenue Board provided you have the above information. This article is contributed by Thannees Tax Consulting Services Sdn Bhd managing director SM Thanneermalai. Time dotCom Q2 net profit surges on gains from AIMS closure KUALA LUMPUR: Time dotCom Bhd’s net profit in the second quarter ended June 30, 2023 surged to RM2.264 billion from RM118.28 million in the same quarter last year on the back of proceeds gained from the discontinued operations of AIMS Data Centre business. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on Friday, the telecommunication group said the profit earned from the closure of a strategic partnership related to AIMS was worth RM2.262 billion. Time dotCom said revenue increased to RM389.2 million from RM351.44 million previously. “The group is pleased with its first-half 2023 performance and we are confident the strategic decisions we have made will continue to yield results for the group in the long run. “However, we remain vigilant and continue to keep an eye on external conditions that may impact the business,” said commander-in-chief Afzal Abdul Rahim. The group has declared a singletier dividend of 16.25 sen per ordinary share, payable on Sept 15, 2023. Going forward, the group said it is committed to investing in its network, which includes the expansion of its coverage footprint alongside improving operational excellence in order to deliver high network reliability, availability and security for the highest level of customer experience. “Furthermore, the group continuously refines its strategies to capture opportunities that arise to solidify its position across its retail, enterprise and wholesale customer segments, it said. “The group remains mindful of operational and external challenges which may impact the business. “The group monitors the same while continuing to carry out risk mitigation and cost management initiatives to ensure the sustainability of its performance,” Time dotCom added. The company’s share price closed at RM5.43, down 4 sen, on Friday. – Bernama Provide internet infrastructure for newer buildings: Fahmi KUALA LUMPUR: Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has urged architects to ensure that their designs for new buildings in the country provide for these premises to be properly equipped with internet infrastructure. This is in line with the rollout of 5G, which is now readily available in Malaysia, he added. Fahmi said he believes a lot of newer buildings will be much better equipped. “We now have 5G. So, a lot of these structures will have to be fitted out in order for us to take full advantage of the fastest internet that we have. “This is important because as the minister in charge of internet, I have been frequently blamed when some buildings don’t have internet (facility). But it is something for us to consider,” he said when closing the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) Merdeka Weekend here yesterday. Fahmi also said PAM and related industry players should consider coming up with building architecture with its own history, such as the Angkasapuri and Parliament buildings. “There should be an architectural language that is adapted for the benefit of people’s housing projects in the future.” – Bernama

13 SUNBIZ theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 In terms of business segments, the ultra high purity division remained the primary revenue contributor, accounting for 64% of the group’s total revenue in H1’23. Compared with previous year’s corresponding period, revenue from the UHP division increased 55% to RM471.3 million in H1’23, driven by higher project recognition in Malaysia, Singapore and China. The processing engineering division contributed revenue of RM61.3 million which represents a MyEG, MRCB and UMW actively traded OVERALL turnover on the Malaysian warrants market saw a surge of 16.8% week-on-week (w-o-w) for the five days ended Aug 18 to RM296.6 million from RM253.9 million in the previous week. Hang Seng Index (HSI) warrants remained the primary focus during the period, dominating weekly turnover with a substantial contribution of RM218.7 million, accounting for 73.7% of the total while warrants over Malaysian stocks made up about 24.2%. HSI futures tumbled for a third straight week to close at their lowest level since late November with all five trading days closing in the red, weighed down by concerns over widening debt defaults in China’s property sector and a weaker yuan after the Chinese currency hit the lowest level against the US dollar since October. HSI futures started the week with a 1.9% decline on Monday before continuing to fall sharply, with Friday recording the steepest decline of more than 2%, bringing the losing streak to a sixth straight trading day. The weekly plunge saw both call and put warrants over the HSI being actively traded. Call warrant HSI-CRF recoded a whopping 406.2 million units traded for the week, topping the most active warrants list. HSI-CRF also recorded the highest weekly turnover, logging up to RM71.6 million. Other HSI warrants that were active include HSI-HNZ, HSI-CRN, HSI-HN3 and HSI-COR with up 154.7 million, 102.6 million, 70.2 million and 61.4 million units traded, respectively. It is worth noting that HSI-HNZ and HSI-HSI-HN3 will be expiring on Aug 30, with their last trading date on Aug 28. Investors may check their warrants portfolio and plan their trading strategies accordingly as warrants that are expiring soon will experience a higher rate of time decay. On the domestic front, call warrants MYEG-C3M, MRCB-C88 and UMW-C42 were popular among investors as they saw up to 53.3 million, 39.4 million and 27.5 million units traded, respectively. Shares of UMW Holdings extended gains for a third straight week to finish at RM4.61 last Friday, their highest since January 2020, soaring 8% week-onweek. To view the full list of structured warrants available on Bursa Malaysia, visit malaysiawarrants.com.my. Provided for Malaysian residents’ information only. This commentary has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia. It is not an offer or recommendation to trade and is not research material. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. You should make your own assessment and seek professional advice. The warrants will not be offered to any US persons. WARRANTS WATCH Top stock warrants by volume traded: Warrant Volume Issuer Exercise Expiry date name (mil) level HSI-CRF 406.2 Macquarie 20,800 30 Oct 2023 HSI-HNZ 154.7 Macquarie 18,600 30 Aug 2023 HSI-CRN 102.6 Macquarie 20,400 29 Nov 2023 HSI-HN3 70.2 Macquarie 17,600 30 Aug 2023 HSI-COR 61.4 Macquarie 21,000 30 Oct 2023 Maybank allocates RM80m for CR programmes this year KUALA LUMPUR: Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) has allocated RM80 million for corporate responsibility (CR) programmes this year, which is part of its initiative to drive the environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) agenda. Group president and CEO Datuk Khairussaleh Ramli said the banking group aspires to build a better world while undertaking its day-to-day business operations, which are vital elements for long-term success. “Our focus is on sustainable programmes which provide long-term community benefits and contribute to the progress of communities where we operate. “It may be challenging, but balancing the short and long-term needs is key to delivering sustainable, profitable growth which creates value for all our stakeholders,” he told reporters on the sidelines of the Maybank Global CR Day, here on Saturday. Khairussaleh said over 20,000 Maybank employees worldwide commemorated the 11th Maybank Group Global CR Day where they engaged directly with over 11,000 community members in their respective locations by continuing to play a role in impacting lives and the environment through sustainable initiatives. He said the annual event, themed “Adapt, Change, Thrive”, was part of the group’s flagship employee volunteerism programme called “Cahaya Kasih”, a platform which enables and empowers employees to come together as agents of change in making a positive and longlasting impact with the communities and for the environment. – Bernama Kelington posts record high quarterly net profit in Q2 PETALING JAYA: Integrated engineering solutions provider Kelington Group Bhd reported an impressive financial performance for the second quarter (Q2’23) and six months (H1’23) ended June 30, 2023. During the quarter, Kelington recorded revenue of RM424.9 million, an increase of RM112.5 million or 36% year-on-year (y-o-y) from RM312.4 million in the preceding year’s corresponding quarter. On the back of strong revenue, the group’s net profit rose 40% y-o-y to RM19.1 million in the quarter under review, compared with RM13.6 million in Q2’22. This is the highest quarterly net profit ever achieved in the group’s history. The rise in top and bottom lines was attributed to significant growth from all major operating markets. Revenue from Singapore, China and Malaysia surged 57%, 51% and 12% yo-y respectively in Q2’23. This was mainly due to higher revenue recognition from ongoing projects. Coupled with the robust Q2’23 results, the group’s first half performance has soared to new heights. Revenue and net profit in H1’23 achieved an all-time high of RM733.8 million, up 51% and RM35.3 million, up 61% respectively. oSignificant growth in all major operating markets 161% annual increase, underpinned by a large project in Malaysia. The industrial gases division continued its upward performance in H1’23 as revenue jumped 146% y-o-y to RM52.9 million, on the back of increased sales of liquid carbon dioxide and other gases. Kelington Group CEO Raymond Gan (pic) said they were happy to end the first six months of the year with a strong showing in terms of top and bottom line achievements. “As we move forward, we are positive on our future outlook as we remain busy executing our projects in-hand and participating in tenders regionally,” he added. Kelington’s order inflows remain robust, with the group securing contracts valued at RM744 million in the first half of 2023. Including projects carried over from previous years, the group’s total order book has reached RM2.44 billion, of which RM1.77 billion remains outstanding. “The industrial gases segment’s growth prospects remain attractive as we are seeing strong demand for liquid carbon dioxide (LCO2) within Malaysia and overseas. Our second LCO2 plant is slated to commence production in the fourth quarter of 2023. This will more than double our existing production capacity, positioning us well to address the rising demand,” said Gan. As of June 30, 2023, the group’s equity (excluding non-controlling interests) grew to RM268.5 million from RM239.3 million at the end of December 2022, driven by consistent quarterly profits. The group has proposed a first interim tax-exempt dividend of 1.5 sen per ordinary share in respect of the financial year ending Dec 31, 2023. The group’s total debt decreased to RM187.1 million by June 30, 2023, down from RM245.0 million on Dec 31, 2022, primarily due to debt repayment in Malaysia. As at June 30, the group’s gearing ratio stood at 0.68 times. The group’s financial position remains robust, supported by a cash balance of RM179.7 million. Water services industry needs restructuring THE National Water Services Industry Restructuring (NWSIR) process started in 2004 just few years after centralised sewerage operation in Malaysia was bailed out using taxpayers’ money. Many model for the water services industry that was used (including concession agreements) have failed to meet proper outcome. Based on NWSIR, all water operators needed to be consolidated under single company within the states and government water agencies were required to be corporatised. This is an important move to ensure transparency. Centralised sewerage operations needed to be ring fenced and merged with state water companies in stages between 2011 and 2015. This move will merge the water treatment, water supply and sewerage services under each state water company to improve operational viability and sustainability. However, this step is still not being implemented and this will further impact water services sector in the long run. NWSIR is implemented using Water Services Industry Act 2006 (WSIA) which was enforced from Jan 1,2008. A 30-year full cost recovery plan was drawn up to turn around water services using Pengurusan Aset Air Bhd (PAAB) as financial facility until the sector reaches full cost recovery. The profit under NWSIR and WSIA model is regulated where additional revenue generated can be capped to plough back into tariff rebalancing or speed up lease rental payment. This mechanism is to ensure improving water services via rapid In Malaysia, almost one-third of treated water is lost in the system. – BERNAMAPIC THE GREEN EQUILIBRIUM infrastructure developments while minimises cost impact to tariff. A transparent tariff setting mechanism was developed to use benchmarking method (using simple iteration mechanism) to only allow regulated cost as well as least cost to tariff. Any cost component that is higher than the benchmarked cost will not be allowed to be passed to tariff. This step is to increase cost efficiency and eliminate bloated cost being passed to consumer. However, to date, the National Water Services Commission (Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara, SPAN) has failed to implement this step. Thus, we have made it clear to SPAN that the Association of Water and Energy Research Malaysia (Awer) is against all tariff reviews and proposals after 2016. Another core issue under NWSIR is nonrevenue water (NRW). NRW is treated water that is loss in the water supply system due to mainly leakages and other minor technical faults as well as theft. In Malaysia, almost onethird of treated water is lost in the system and does not bring revenue to the water companies. The government set 25% NRW target for 2020 but failed to achieve it. The government must implement the following to save the water services sector: 0 Merger of water treatment-water supplysewerage services under state based water company by parceling centralised sewerage operations must be completed by 2025; 0 Clear NRW reduction target and Key Performance Index must be set; 0 Implement Transparent Tariff Setting Mechanism using benchmarking method immediately; 0 NWSIR and WSIA model must be reverted back to original planning and all dilutions and derailments must be immediately rectified, All approved projects that are delayed, abandoned and failed to meet approved capacity as well as performance must be investigated and published in SPAN website. Steps to blacklist the companies and board members must also be implemented, 0 Overhauling SPAN, PAAB and the water ministry’s human capital. We do not have much time left to complete restructuring of our water services sector. Therefore, the government must be both prudent and swift in completing NWSIR and WSIA model implementation or risk many more frequent water disruptions and higher NRW levels and take a plunge into water insecurity. This article is contributed by Piarapakaran S, president of Awer, a non-government organisation involved in research and development in the fields of water, energy and environment.

14 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 SUNBIZ Chinese germanium exports surge ahead of curbs BEIJING: China’s July exports of germanium products more than doubled from June to their highest in six months, customs data showed yesterday, as overseas buyers rushed to lock in supply ahead of export restrictions that took effect on Aug 1. China, the world’s top germanium producer accounting for more than 60% of global supply, shipped abroad 8.63 metric tons of wrought germanium products last month, surging from 3.29 tons in June and 41% higher than a year earlier, data from the General Administration of Customs showed. China in July announced restrictions on the export of eight gallium and six germanium products, which are used to make semiconductors, effective from Aug 1, citing national security reasons. China exported 36.45 tons of wrought germanium products in the first seven months of 2023, a year-onyear rise of 66%, the data showed. Germanium is a key material for fibre optic cables and is also used in high-speed computer chips and plastics, as well as for infrared radiation. China’s exports of gallium rose to 5.15 tons from June’s 1.6 tons, although the July volume was 41% lower than the same month in 2022. Gallium exports from January through July were down 51% on the year at 22.72 tons, the data showed. The export restrictions fanned concerns that temporary supply tightness would emerge in markets outside China after August, and propelled a flurry of stockpiling before the rules took effect. “We have seen growing overseas buying interest (for gallium) after the announcement of exports controls, all with the requirement that shipments need to be done ahead of August 1,” a Chinese gallium producer said. Some Chinese exporters of gallium and germanium products are preparing the necessary documents to apply for export licences for dual-use items and technologies - those with potential military as well as civilian applications. China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday it had received some export licence applications for gallium and germanium products and was reviewing them. Those that have already submitted applications are waiting for a reply from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce on whether they are able to get a permit, which typically takes 45 days. “We expect to know by the middle of October at the earliest whether we will get the licence,” a Chinese germanium trader said. – Reuters China to coordinate support to resolve local govt debt risks BEIJING: China will coordinate financial support to resolve local government debt problems, the central bank said in a statement yesterday, as policymakers look to shore up an increasingly shaky economic recovery and reassure worried investors. The statement, following a joint meeting on Friday by the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), the country’s top financial regulator and the securities regulator, comes amid growing concerns that China’s deepening property crisis is starting to spill over into its financial system. China unexpectedly lowered several key interest rates earlier last week in a bid to shore up activity and it is expected to cut its prime loan rates on Monday, but analysts say moves so far have been too little, too late, with much more forceful measures needed to stem the economy’s downward spiral. Financial departments should coordinate support to resolve local debt risks, enrich tools to prevent and resolve debt risks, strengthen risk monitoring and firmly hold the line on avoiding systemic risk, according to the PBOC statement. China’s Politburo, a top decisionmaking body of the ruling Communist Party, in late July reiterated its focus on preventing local government debt risks and said it would carry out a basket of measures, but no plans have been announced yet. Bloomberg reported on Aug 11 that China will offer local oHeavily indebted municipalities represent a major risk to financial stability, economists say governments a combined 1 trillion yuan (RM637 billion) in bond issuance quotas for refinancing. Analysts believe that a coordinated rescue package would likely involve a combination of additional funding or refinancing channels, debt swaps and payment extensions, and possible debt restructurings. Debt-laden municipalities represent a major risk to China’s economy and financial stability, economists say, after years of over-investment in infrastructure, plummeting returns from land sales and soaring costs to contain Covid-19. The finances of many local governments have deteriorated alongside a severe slump in the once-mighty property sector, which has caused a growing number of developers to default on their debts. But Fitch Ratings said earlier this month it expects the central government will try to avoid outright bailouts of more troubled India imposes 40% export duty on onions to cool prices MUMBAI: India on Saturday imposed with immediate effect a 40% export duty on onions up to Dec 31 in an attempt to improve domestic availability of the vegetable, the ministry of finance said. The duty imposed by the world’s biggest exporter of onions will help New Delhi dampen local prices ahead of key state elections later this year but will force Asian buyers to shell out more, as other regional exporters have limited supplies. “The export duty will make Indian onions more expensive than those from Pakistan, China, and Egypt. This will naturally lead to lower exports and aid in reducing local prices,” said Ajit Shah, an exporter based in Mumbai. Average wholesale onion price in key markets has jumped nearly 20% from July to August, to 2,400 rupees (RM134) per 100kg on concerns that erratic rainfall would lead to lower yields. India is heading for its driest August in more than a century, with scant rainfall likely to persist across large areas, partly because of the El Niño weather pattern, two weather department officials told Reuters on Friday. “Onions harvested during the summer months are rotting quickly, and the new supplies are being municipalities, as that would undermine policymakers’ yearslong effort to bring debt levels down to more manageable levels. The Friday meeting, attended by PBOC governor Pan Gongsheng, deputy director of the National Financial Regulatory Administration Xiao Yuanqi, vice chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission Li Chao and other officials from financial departments, also urged banks to step up lending. “Financial support to the real economy must be strong enough” while major banks should increase lending, the statement said. The PBOC also reiterated that it will optimise credit policies for the property sector, and strongly support small firms, technology innovation and the manufacturing sector. But analysts note many consumers and companies are in no mood to boost spending or borrowing given the extremely uncertain economic climate. – Reuters Turkiye begins rolling back costly scheme that protects lira ANKARA: Turkiye’s central bank yesterday began rolling back a growing and costly scheme that protects lira deposits from foreign exhange (FX) depreciation, marking another move toward more orthodox policies following a shift toward interest rate hikes. The central bank said that it lifted targets applied to banks for certain levels of conversions of foreignexchange deposits to the liraprotection scheme, known as KKM. In a reversal, the central bank now wants lenders to set a new goal of transitioning KKM accounts into regular lira accounts, in part by dissuading companies and individuals from renewing the KKM accounts. According to a separate decree in the Official Gazette, the central bank also raised lenders’ reserve requirement ratios for FX deposits, further nudging customers into regular lira accounts. President Tayyip Erdogan’s government introduced the KKM scheme in late 2021 to arrest a historic plunge in the currency, which had been brought on by his unorthodox drive to slash interest rates despite rising inflation. KKM accounts have since swelled to some US$117 billion (RM543.7 billion), or 3.1 trillion lira, around a quarter of total bank deposits. This has been stoked by a roughly 68% fall in the lira in the last two years. To cover KKM depreciation costs, the central bank paid an estimated 300 billion lira in June and July, when the lira plunged again. This month’s costs were estimated at 350 billion lira. – Reuters Countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka rely on Indian onion shipments. – AFPPIC Unions notify Woodside of strike plans SYDNEY: Unions at Woodside Energy Group’s North West Shelf offshore gas platforms yesterday announced plans to strike as early as Sept 2, which could eventually disrupt shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from top global exporter Australia. The strike threat escalates a longrunning dispute between Woodside and workers over pay and conditions on its North West Shelf gas platforms, which feed Australia’s biggest LNG plant. Unions in Australia are required by law to give companies seven working days’ notice before any industrial action but can elect to call off any action before then. The Offshore Alliance, which combines the Maritime Union of Australia and Australian Workers’ Union, said in a Facebook post it had “unanimously endorsed” giving Woodside seven working days’ notice to strike if its bargaining claims are not met by close of business on Wednesday. That would mean a strike could start as soon as Sept 2. “Woodside tried every tactic it could think of to avoid bargaining with its workers as a collective, but in the end the company failed to maintain the status quo it liked – one where what the company says goes,” Offshore Alliance spokesperson Brad Gandy said in a statement. A spokesperson for Woodside declined to comment on yesterday’s update, – Reuters delayed. This situation has prompted the government to take precautionary measures,” said another Mumbai-based exporter. India’s onion exports in the first half of 2023 jumped 63% from a year ago to 1.46 million metric tonnes. Countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka rely on Indian shipments. Onions are used as the base for traditional dishes across Asia such as biryani in Pakistan and India, belacan in Malaysia and fish curry in Bangladesh. “The Indian duty would prompt China and Pakistan to raise prices, as they have a limited surplus for exports,” said the second exporter. India’s annual retail inflation in July rose to its highest in 15 months as vegetable and cereals prices skyrocketed, putting pressure on the government to take action to bring down prices. India surprised buyers last month by imposing a ban on widely consumed non-basmati white rice sales to dampen price rises. – Reuters

2 1 A U G U S T 2 0 2 3 M O N D A Y The game is on page 19 page 19 page 19 Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty This week comic book superheroes conquer the gameworld Turn to page 19 for more Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin

16 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME BRACE yourselves for a gripping ride into the seedy underbelly of 1990s Seoul with the electrifying Korean crime drama The Worst of Evil, making its grand entrance exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar. Prepare to be immersed once again in the neon-lit maze of Seoul’s crime-ridden alleys alongside the remarkable Ji Changwook, Wi Hajun, and the talented Lim Semi. This forthcoming, adrenaline-pumping drama promises to whisk you away into a world where danger lurks in every corner. As a potent new recreational drug sweeps through the pulsating heart of Seoul’s nightlife, an undercover officer embarks on a mission that will plunge him into the depths of darkness itself. The stage is set for an intense showdown in The Worst of Evil, the heart-pounding crime drama set to make its debut on Sept 27. Picture a 1990s Seoul: a former DJ turned gang leader unleashes a trendy yet mysterious drug named “Gangnam Crystal” within the city’s nightclubs. With its origin shrouded in secrecy, an officer from the countryside is recruited for a covert police unit. His mission? Infiltrate the very heart of the gang and dismantle it from within. But fate has unexpected cards to deal, as officer Park Junmo discovers his own wife, the enigmatic officer Yu Euijeong, has also stepped into the line of fire. Unravelling a web of connections between his duty and his beloved, Junmo’s every move becomes a thrilling spectacle that will keep you perched at the edge of your seat. The Worst of Evil is a creation by the visionary director Han Dongwook (the genius behind Man in Love) and brought to life through the captivating writing of Jang Minseok. With a tantalising structure of 12 episodes, commencing with a breathtaking three-episode premiere, climaxing with an equally riveting three-episode finale, and delivering two episodes each week in between, The Worst of Evil slots perfectly into Disney+ Hotstar’s treasure trove of Korean gems. Mark your calendars as The Worst of Evil sets its stage exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar, ready to sweep you off your feet and into a whirlwind of intrigue and suspense. – BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Historical romance INTRODUCING a captivating addition to Netflix’s repertoire: Cigarette Girl, the forthcoming Indonesian series. Immerse yourself in a journey back to the 1960s in Indonesia’s tobacco industry through this period drama, adapted from Ratih Kumala’s novel, and witness an enthralling epic romance unfold. Guided by the visionary direction of Kamila Andini and Ifa Isfansyah, the show is brought to life by the creative process of BASE Entertainment. Driving the narrative are the masterful showrunners, Shanty Harmayn and Tanya Yuson. Notably, Ratih Kumala and Tanya Yuson have not only contributed as screenwriters but have also crafted the storyline alongside Kanya K. Priyanti and Ambaridzki Ramadhantyo. Cigarette Girl beckons you to delve into the realm of Dasiyah (portrayed by Dian Sastrowardoyo), an avant-garde woman driven by her passion for devising the ultimate blends of clove cigarettes. Her fateful encounter with Soeraja (embodied by Ario Bayu) sets the stage for an extraordinary love saga intricately woven into the backdrop of historical occurrences that ultimately mould their destinies. As time unfolds, their legacy is carried forward to later generations: Lebas (played by Arya Saloka), Soeraja’s son, and Arum (depicted by Putri Marino). Together, they embark on a quest through the annals of history, unveiling long-buried secrets. The cast also boasts the talents of Tissa Biani, Ine Febriyanti, Winky Wiryawan, Sheila Dara, Ibnu Jamil, Rukman Rosadi, Nungki Kusumastuti, Dimas Aditya, Pritt Timothy, and Tutie Kirana. Mark your calendars to experience the enchanting tale of Cigarette Girl, exclusively available for viewing on Netflix starting Nov 2. – BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Cigarette Girl is scheduled for streaming on Nov 2. – NETFLIX Unmasking The Worst of Evil on Disney+ Hotstar. – DISNEY+ HOTSTAR Dark descent The music artists at the LACMA Art+Film Gala on Nov 5, 2022. – BILLBOARD S INGER Billie Eilish and her ex, Jesse Rutherford, continue to be close friends. The Bad Guy singer and the indie rock musician dated for less than a year. In May, a representative confirmed to People magazine that the couple split “amicably and remain good friends” after dating for less than a year, and now, Eilish is elaborating on their current relationship. In a recent Instagram story fan Q&A session, the 21-year-old artist was questioned about her relationship status. When asked if she was currently dating anyone, she emphatically responded with a resounding “NO SIRRRRRR.” After addressing several more inquiries from her followers, including topics like her pet dog Shark and her current favourite song, Eilish also fielded a question about Rutherford, 31. In response to this, she clarified that they are very, very good friends only, expressing a sentiment of enduring camaraderie by referring to him as “My homie forever.” Eilish and Rutherford, who serves as the lead singer of The Neighbourhood band, were last seen spending time together at Coachella in April. Their interactions initially sparked romance speculations in October 2022, when TMZ released images of them dining out in West Hollywood. Subsequently, they made their relationship known on Instagram with a very pointed couple’s Halloween costume, playfully addressing the subject of their age difference. Eilish dressed up as a baby, while Rutherford humorously portrayed an elderly man. Their public appearances as a couple extended to the LACMA Art + Film Gala 2022 in November, where they made their debut on the red carpet donning coordinated bedtime-themed ensembles. As their relationship unfolded, they were seen together at the Vanity Fair Oscars after party in March and even celebrated Easter as a couple in April. However, their romantic journey took a turn in May when Eilish’s spokesperson confirmed to People magazine that the pair had mutually decided to part ways. The representative clarified, “We can confirm Billie and Jesse did split amicably and remain good friends,” Eilish’s rep stated in a statement at the time, adding, “All cheating rumours are false. Both a r e currently single.” █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL oEilish’s rep confirms ‘amicable split’ Billie and Jesse, friends forever

17 ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 AWARD-WINNING singersongwriter Heerraa is marking the release of her new single, Note To Self, with a series of live performances scheduled in Nashville, Tennessee. Heerraa Ravindran, professionally known as Heerraa, kicked off the Note to Self Tour earlier in August, in the vibrant music hub of Nashville. Enthralling crowds at renowned venues like The Underdog, Bold Patriot Brewing, and Holston House, Heerraa has been creating an exciting musical experience. Living the dream In her inaugural visit to Nashville, Heerraa left a lasting impression on the audience with her remarkable stage presence and her bold attempt to make a positive impact on the world through music. Her performances at iconic venues such as The Bluebird Cafe and The Commodore Grille made her music that much more appealing. “It touched my heart to receive such a warm welcome from the music community in Nashville. “What an honour to showcase a song [Note to Self] I wrote when I was 19 and kick off my first series of shows in the US,” said the singer, who had recently been selected as a Voting Member at the prestigious Recording Academy (GRAMMYs). A deeply emotive song carrying a potent message, the lyrics of the song revolve around conquering uncertainties while recognising one’s earlier self. The track resonated profoundly with listeners even prior to its official launch. It garnered recognition early on, earning the Audience Choice Award (Song) at the 2019 Short+Sweet Festival Malaysia during Heerraa’s first-ever live performance of the piece. “It was my first time in the city, and I’m really grateful to the many people who took the time to show me around and make sure I felt welcomed,” said Heerraa. Global recognition Nashville, often referred to as the Music City, holds a significant place in the history of music as the birthplace of country and bluegrass genres, while also maintaining ties to R&B, pop, and rock. This vibrant city is renowned for its pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape. People visit the city annually to see live music on Broadway and to tour the renowned recording studios on Music Row. It also serves as a hub for musicians, professionals, and songwriters to produce music for their audience. “It takes a village to put on a show, and I’m taking this moment to thank the village back at home for putting me on stage,” said Heerraa as she credits this trip to ET Ideas, Ascendance, and her family back home. Joseph Wandass, singersongwriter and producer based in Nashville, commented on Heerraa’s Instagram post after watching Heerraa’s performance at the Commodore Grill: “You gave a phenomenal performance! Good luck at the awards in Atlanta!” Beyond her musical endeavours, Heerraa’s impact extends to the world of social empowerment. She is a co-founder of Ascendance, a global youth organisation dedicated to empowering young individuals. Established in 2015, Ascendance has left a positive imprint on the lives of 50,000 students across 26 countries, fostering growth and potential. Heerraa’s remarkable accomplishments have garnered recognition on various fronts. Her academic excellence earned her a spot on Harvard’s Dean’s List, and she also received the Diana Award for her work in community development and social change. EJKLS Seni’s daring play EJKLS Seni has announced the upcoming staging of an innovative play titled Dara, Darah, & Amarah//Of Blood, Virginity, & Fury at its esteemed art venue, pangkin@ejklsseni. The shows are slated to take place from Aug 25 to 27, and then again from Sept 1 to 3. This thought-provoking play is a semi-devised creation written and directed by Asyraf Syahir Mohd Najib. The production boasts a diverse ensemble cast of five exceptionally talented individuals: Nurul Sofia, Piravina Ragunathan, Celestine Waldo, Silam Sivakurunathan, and Daiaa Samsudin. The narrative unfolds as an unconventional coming-of-age story, following the lives of five adults navigating their early 30s. Amidst their journey, they find comfort and camaraderie while delving into their pasts of dark sexual encounters and embarking on an exploration of their sexual identities. The play fearlessly addresses the seldom-discussed reality of how minors encounter explicit sexual content and experiences at a young age, subsequently shaping their trajectories into adulthood. Themes of innocence lost, early exposure to explicit material, the reevaluation of virginity, the discovery of diverse sexual identities and encounters (including those of a queer nature), and the quest for self-acceptance are masterfully woven into the narrative fabric. The show is scheduled to begin at 8.30pm and the production will be carried out in a format that is multilingual, with English serving as the primary language, but elements of Malay and Tamil are also being incorporated. This will lead to a more vivid presentation of the narrative as a result. Witness this impressive performance at the Wangsa Maju venue, pangkin@ejklsseni. If you have any additional questions about tickets or the show, please don’t hesitate to reach out through the following channels: Instagram: @ejklsseni, or email to [email protected] / [email protected]. █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL Heerraa on top of Holston House, Nashville. – URBAN BAY PHOTOGRAPHY From left: New Jersey-based songwriter Gwynne Alden, Malaysian artist Heerraa, and Nashville-based artist Mitsna. – ET BOOST Heerraa performs an energetic show with a sing-along at The Underdog in Nashville. – ET BOOST The shows are scheduled for Aug 25–27 and Sept 1–3. – EJKLS SENI Heerraa debuts Note to Self oMalaysian singer lights up Nashville █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL

18 LIFESTYLE theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME Whisking up dreams I MAGINE a culinary adventure that takes you from the vibrant streets of South Korea to the sunkissed shores of the Philippines, Paris Baguette’s culinary voyage lands in the Philippines. – PARIS BAGUETTE oParis Baguette’s scrumptious journey from South Korea █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Chairman of Paris Baguette Philippines and Group CEO of Berjaya Food, Datuk Sydney Quays. – BERJAYA FOOD BERHAD all through the artistry of Paris Baguette. This is not just a franchise agreement; it’s a culinary odyssey that intertwines the flavours of two nations, brought to life by the masterful collaboration of Berjaya Food (International) Sdn Bhd, Middle Trade Inc, and Paris Baguette Singapore. Set against a backdrop of anticipation, the stage is being prepared for a gastronomic extravaganza. The very first Paris Baguette store is set to grace the local scene, introducing South Korean café bakery culture in a symphony of tastes and textures that will resonate across the archipelago. The anticipation is palpable as the opening act is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2023, promising an experience that will tantalise both the palate and the imagination. In this culinary narrative, Berjaya Food (International) Sdn Bhd and Middle Trade Inc take on the roles of culinary alchemists, orchestrating the enchanting transformation of Paris Baguette Philippines Inc. These visionary entities are poised to spread the essence of Paris Baguette’s innovative spirit throughout the country’s key cities, crafting a storyline that melds tradition and innovation in the realm of baked delights. The visionary leader and Group CEO of Berjaya Food Berhad, Datuk Sydney Quays, expressed that their aspiration goes beyond creating basic nourishment. Their aim is to unfurl a tapestry of tastes, curating an encounter that deeply connects with every refined palate and offeris an intriguing hint of the enchantment concealed within each exquisite bite. As the plot thickens, the audience is introduced to the President and CEO of SPC Group, Hur Jin-Soo. He unveils the heart of Paris Baguette’s success, unveiling the secret behind the brand’s global acclaim – the philosophy of “Sangmidang.” This unwavering commitment to excellence has turned Paris Baguette into a household name in South Korea, with an impressive legacy of over 3,500 stores. Now, the same magic is poised to unfold in the Philippines, offering patrons an unparalleled encounter with quality concoctions that tell a story in every crumb. Yet this culinary escapade is more than just a business venture; it’s a journey that transcends borders and resonates with pop culture. Those who’ve followed K-Dramas have seen these iconic bakeries grace their screens, and these havens of indulgence have been endorsed by none other than the luminaries of Korean entertainment. It’s not just a bakery; it’s an immersion into a culture, a lifestyle, and a passion for the culinary arts. With every meticulously crafted pastry, bread, and cake, Paris Baguette redefines the experience of indulgence. The legacy of European-style bakery culture, beautifully intertwined with South Korean innovation, is a feast for the senses. This isn’t just a bakery; it’s a canvas where flour and creativity blend to create edible masterpieces. Paris Baguette stands as a testament to the fusion of dreams and flavours. From South Korea’s bustling streets to the Philippines’ vibrant communities, the journey unfolds, inviting all to partake in the grand narrative of Paris Baguette, a tale told through each delectable bite. A Gingham-filled aroma RECENTLY, Bath & Body Works Malaysia unveiled its latest olfactory creation, the Gingham Olfactory Floorset, showcasing an exclusive collection of body care and home fragrance products, each enveloped in one of four distinctive fragrances. These olfactory delights transport individuals to unique sensory realms, embodying Bath & Body Works Malaysia’s unwavering dedication to infusing the world with joy and brightness through the art of scent. The Gingham Gorgeous fragrance emerges as a celebration of floral elegance, seamlessly combining the allure of pink strawberries, succulent peach nectar, and the tender embrace of peony blossoms in a symphony of scents that remain Gingham Olfactory set-up. – PICS BY BATH & BODY WORKS MALAYSIA █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ The Gingham line-up. Gingham Legend for Men. unforgettable. Gingham Vibrant ushers in a playful symphony of sweetness with wild blackberries, candied violets, and the velvety warmth of soft vanilla. The result is an irresistible, fruity composition that dances on the senses. For those who crave a dose of invigorating freshness, Gingham Fresh offers an experience bursting with the zesty succulence of juicy pear, the effervescence of sparkling clementine, and the pure vitality of fresh daisies. A crisp and cheerful aroma that enlivens the spirit. Meanwhile, Gingham merges the freshness of blue freesia, the delicate charm of white peach, and the vibrancy of fresh clementine, all intertwined with the ethereal essence of violet and the gentle allure of clean musk. The result is a refreshing floral note with a hint of sweet citrus that rejuvenates the senses. As for Gingham Legend, this scent envelopes enthusiasts in a cocoon of richness and warmth. The uplifting notes of bergamot meld with the deep embrace of rich oak and the serene elegance of sandalwood reserve, culminating in a pleasant and enduring woodsy aroma. The Gingham Olfactory floorset offers a comprehensive array of body care and home fragrance items, each starting at a reasonable RM16. From indulgent shower gels to enchanting fragrance mists, these products promise to elevate daily routines into sensorial escapes. In the spirit of Gingham adoration, Bath & Body Works Malaysia had an exclusive Find MY Gingham event at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur last week. The event, stationed at the Centre Court on Level 2 of the mall, offered a myriad of captivating activities, generous rewards, and exclusive promotions. Adding an extra layer of delight, immersive workshops themed around flowers were offered on selected days. These workshops not only enhanced the event’s experiential aspect but also provided attendees with opportunities to delve into the world of fragrance creation. For the ones that were eager to commemorate the event and their love for Gingham, a picturesque setup designed for Instagram-worthy moments awaited them. Attendees adorned in charming gingham prints were invited to partake in the #FindMYGingham challenge, capturing and sharing their Gingham-inspired looks on Instagram. The chance to win a Bath & Body Works Malaysia gift awaited those who embraced the challenge. Bath & Body Works Malaysia’s Gingham Olfactory floorset encapsulates the essence of their commitment to brightening lives through captivating scents. The carefully curated fragrances and the accompanying event united both, creating an immersive sensory experience that invited all to explore and celebrate the beauty of Gingham.

19 GAMING & TECH theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 I N an already packed year that is bouncing back from the effects the pandemic have had on the gaming industry, more is yet to come with the remaining five months of 2023. The first half of the year saw games like Dead Space, Hogwarts Legacy, Resident Evil 4, The Last of Us Part 1, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, Street Fighter 6, Diablo IV, and Final Fantasy XVI burning holes through the wallets of gamers. As we move into the second half of the year, here is another barrage of new games that will be dropping right up until the holiday season. Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5 Taking a break from their usual sadistically hard action RPGs that created a genre in and of itself, From Software’s latest output will be the newest entry in the Armored Core mech combat simulator series. In Armored Core VI: Fires of Rubicon, players will fight for the future of the ruined planet Rubicon using their customised Armored Core mech. Featuring endless customisation options through the equipping of parts to customise attack, mobility, and defence, players will be able to fine-tune their mechs to their preferred playstyle as they battle Amored Core pilots from rival factions and megalithic mecha monstrosities. Fires of Rubicon will release on Aug 25. Sea of Stars Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Windows, Xbox Armored Core 6 will feature chaotic mech battles with From Software’s signature difficulty. – BANDAI NAMCO ENTERTAINMENT oA stacked end of the year for games █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Cyberpunk 2077’s expansion is set to erase the bad taste of when the base game launched in an incomplete state. – CD PROJEKT Classic RPGs such as Sea of Stars continue to exist due to indie developers. – SABOTAGE STUDIO One, Xbox Series X/S Made for fans of old-school roleplaying games, the 16-bit game takes inspiration from games like Chrono Trigger, blending traditional and modern gameplay in its turn-based battles and combat system. Exploration and navigation also adapt modern conventions, using platforming and traversal that isn’t “locked” to a grid. Sea of Stars will release on Aug 29. Baldur’s Gate III Platform: PlayStation 5 Though it was already released on PC (to great acclaim) in early August, Baldur’s Gate III will arrive on the PlayStation 5 early next month. Featuring a world based on classic Dungeons & Dragons, including the mechanics, Baldur’s Gate III is a massive classic role-playing game that lets players play the game how they want it, from the minute details to the greatest decisions that would result in wild repercussions. Baldur’s Gate III will release on Sept 6. Lies of P Platform: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S Heavily influenced by From Software’s games, Neowiz Games’ Lies of P is a Souls-like action game. Inspired by Carlo Collodi’s novel The Adventures of Pinocchio, the game will place players in the shoes of Pinocchio, as the mechanised puppet fights against the abominations in the city of Krat as it looks for Geppetto. The Lies of P will release on Sep 19. Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty Platform: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S An expansion to the 2020 game, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, will have players working alongside Solomon Reed (played by Idris Elba) on an espionage mission. Keanu Reeves will also be reprising his role as Johnny Silverhand in the expansion. The expansion will contain all the improvements made to the base game since its chaotic launch, and more. Phantom Liberty will launch on Sep 26. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 Platform: PlayStation 5 Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will once again place players in control of both Peter Parker and Miles Morales as the webslinging duo faces off against Kraven the Hunter and Venom. The game will feature a wider array of improvements over the first game, especially in terms of its vertical gameplay by having the Spider-Men “fly”, and combat has been shown to be far more improved with each character having their own “thing” instead of just brawling and webbing. The game will release on Oct 20. The Last Ronin revealed ONE of the longest-running and most iconic pieces of pop culture entertainment, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, is a core facet of millennial identity. Almost everyone who was born or grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s is familiar with the turtles and their rat sensei. Created by Kevin Eastman and █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR The new God of War games are a perfect template for how best to adapt the comic to a videogame format. – SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT Peter Laird, the Turtles first made their mark on the pages of comic books in 1983 before progressing to television, film, and then video games. Like its half-shell heroes, the franchise is an enduring piece of entertainment. In the 34 years since the first TMNT game, there have been a lot of video games about the turtles, with each character having its own set of fans. However, a constant between each game is that they are wholly targeted towards children, with a much smaller target audience of fans in their 30s. At the end of the day, the property was conceived with the idea of appealing to young kids. But what if the franchise deliberately expanded in a more adult direction? From four to one On Aug 11, the THQ Nordic Showcase officially revealed the teaser trailer for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin. Currently in development by Black Forest Games, the game will adapt the five-issue The Last Ronin miniseries that began in 2020. In a future, war-torn New York, three of the four Ninja Turtles are dead. The remaining Turtle, unnamed until the end of the first comic and armed with the weapons of his brothers, wages a bloody one-turtle war against the Foot Clan to get revenge for his slain brothers and to recover his family’s lost honour. The miniseries was conceived by the original TMNT creators, Eastman and Laird, along with Tom Waltz, Ben Bishop, Isaac, and Esau Escorza. Full-fledged blockbuster game In a March interview with Polygon, Paramount Global Games and Emerging Media senior vice president Doug Rosen claimed that the game will be a s i n g l e - p l a y e r a c t i o n - R P G similar to the recent God of War games. Compared to previous TMNT games, The Last Ronin would indicate the franchise is heading towards A A A - g a m i n g standards, with the upcoming game being a fast-paced action game in thirdperson. On top of that, the AAA game is expected to be fairly faithful to the source material, which means it’s aiming for an older audience, though it’s not yet known whether the game will be a hard T-rated game for teenagers or an M-rated one for adults. TMNT: The Last Ronin is currently slated to release on PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S. Despite being bleak, The Last Ronin was equally praised for its emotional storytelling involving the turtle brothers. – IDW PUBLISHING Players paradise

20 FASHION & BEAUTY theSun LYFE ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 I N its 11th year, Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW) is back from Aug 21 to 27, offering an extraordinary evolution in fashion engagement. This year’s event will feature 50 designers and brands showcasing ready-to-wear collections across seven days in seven different venues. Building on a decade of showcasing Malaysian design talent, KLFW is embracing a new direction that emphasises unity, growth, and innovation within the local fashion industry. This shift aims to provide a revitalised experience for both designers and attendees, breaking the moud of traditional fashion shows. KLFW 2023 introduces a ground-breaking approach to fashion presentation, incorporating experiential elements that heighten intimacy between designers and their audience. This year’s event will spotlight seven new designers, alongside the anticipated return of established names like Fairuz Ramdan and Andy Sulaiman. The event’s signature opening show will celebrate the Malaysian Official Designers’ Association (MODA) with presentations from eight featured designers. The winners of the Samsung-sponsored KL10 Designer Search 2022 will headline their own “Design To Sustain” themed shows, promoting sustainable fashion practices. Adding an international flair, the debut segment, Asia Fashion Xchange, will shine a spotlight on regional Asian designers and labels, starting with Indonesian brand Buttonscarves. Supported by a roster of sponsors including AmBank Group, L’Oréal, and Samsung, KLFW 2023 is set to be a blend of creativity, collaboration, and celebration. The event will also feature engaging initiatives like Fashion Connect.23, focusing on industry networking and education, as well as the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Awards (KLFA), which honour innovation and resilience within Malaysian fashion. In a recent interview with theSun, the visionary founder of KL Fashion Week, Andrew Tan, unveiled the dynamic changes shaping the 2023 event and its far-reaching implications for Malaysian designers. With a fresh format that emphasises intimacy and experiential engagement, KLFW is poised to redefine the fashion landscape, both locally and globally. Elevating Malaysian designers on the global stage Tan envisions the new format contributing Founder of KLFW, Andrew Tan. – PICS BY KLFW Performance by drummers from ASWARA. Model presentation with KLFW key messages. █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN significantly to the growth and recognition of Malaysian designers internationally. The focus on quality attendees stands out as a game-changer. Invited guests now play a pivotal role in the promotion, sale and pre-ordering of designer collections. This innovative approach not only enhances the relationship between designers and customers but also paves the way for sustainable business models. Intimacy and engagement redefined The concept of intimacy and experiential engagement takes centre stage in KLFW 2023. The event spans seven days with fewer shows per day, allowing audiences to savour and appreciate the showcased designs. The setting itself fosters intimacy, with designers encouraged to tailor the show hall to their vision. Attendees can anticipate a heightened sense of connection with the designers’ creative processes. Evolution and original purpose Tan emphasises that the event has remained true to its original purpose: championing Malaysian designers. Despite achieving critical mass, the event remains committed to nurturing local talent. Tan notes that while global recognition is important, sustainability as a business and generating revenue remain paramount. The renewed focus reinforces KLFW’s dedication to the local fashion ecosystem. Balancing trends and Individuality KLFW’s ethos transcends fleeting trends; instead emphasising personal style and creativity, designers are encouraged to fuse their creativity with commercial viability. The rise of ready-to-wear lines tailored to both affordability and customisation, exemplifies KLFW’s pragmatic approach to individual expression within fashion. Innovative engagement through technology Tan recognises the dual nature of technology in fashion. While it can detract from the tactile experience, technology also offers innovative ways to engage. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest provide avenues for fashion influencers and enthusiasts to connect, share, and critique. Integrating technology creates a dynamic synergy between designers, brands, and consumers. Impact and Collaborations KLFW’s impact on the Malaysian fashion landscape is evident through its various initiatives and collaborations. The event nurtures emerging designers through competitions, model searches, and sustainability partnerships. The collaboration with MODA designers and the presence of a pop-up Store at Fahrenheit further solidify KLFW’s role in propelling local fashion forward. Adaptation and Continuity Addressing the challenges posed by the pandemic, KLFW demonstrates its agility through continuous learning, openness to change, and innovative thinking. The event’s adaptability and investment in technology ensure a seamless and safe experience for attendees while keeping pace with evolving trends. KL Fashion Week 2023 is more than an event; it’s a revolution in fashion presentation, engagement, and sustainability. As the world anticipates this dynamic spectacle, Tan’s insights hint at a transformative journey that reaffirms the power of Malaysian designers on the global fashion stage. Stay updated by visiting the official website, klfashionweek.website/ or by following @KLFashionWeek on social media. Get ready for a fashion revolution that will reshape your perspective on style. Fashion revolution oKuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2023 Invited guests at the KLFW official media launch.

21 SPORTS theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 WYJ3573 2013 PERODUA ALZA 30000 2 JKU8102 2005 FORD RANGER 12000 Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. All auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesday 23, and 30 August at 10.00am (bikes) and 11.00am (cars). All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. Viewing and inspection on every Tuesday from 9.30am - 5.30pm. Download Pickles Auctions app to view all auction listings or visit www.pickles.my For more information call 016-6999170, WhatsApp 012-5553727 or email [email protected] PICKLES ASIA SDN BHD [1231292-D] Lot 19391, Batu 8 1⁄2, Jalan Klang Lama, Taman Desaria, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTIS JUALAN SECARA LELONG AWAM Akta Pemegang Pajak-Gadai (81) 1972 Sandaran-sandaran yang tidak ditebus Pemegang Pajak Gadai yang tersebut dibawah ini Akan Di-jual Dengan Lelong Umum Di-12 Tingkat 1 Lrg 1 Tmn Ria 08000 Sungai Petani Pada Hari 05hb SEPTEMBER 2023, Waktu 9.00 pagi NEGERI KEDAH NAMA PAJAK GADAI ALAMAT PAJAK GADAI Pajak Gadai EMJ Sdn Bhd 12 Lorong 1 Taman Ria 08000 Sungai Petani Pajak Gadai Kah Yuit Sdn Bhd 15 Taman Cenderawasih Jalan Kelang Lama 09000 Kulim Pajak Gadai Kah Yong Sdn Bhd 6A Jalan Kampung Baru 08000 Sungai Petani Min Seng Pawnshop 7 Jalan Raya 09300 Kuala Ketil Pajak Gadai San Heng Loong Sdn Bhd LC 1203 Jalan Baling 09400 Padang Serai Pajak Gadai Sin Yit Foh Sdn Bhd 23-B Main Road 06300 Kuala Nerang Pajak Gadai Sing Lee Seng Sdn Bhd 5 Jalan Semiling 08100 Bedong Pajak Gadai Poh Fook Sdn Bhd 52G Jalan Kuala Kedah Taman Gunung Indah 05400 Alor Setar Pajak Gadai Sungai Petani Sdn Bhd 174 Jalan Kuala Ketil 08000 Sungai Petani Sandaran-sandaran tersebut boleh diperiksa dengan Pemegang Pajak Gadai berkenaan diatas pada 22hb AUGUST 2023 sehingga 24hb AUGUST 2023, pukul 10.00 pagi sehingga 4.00 petang sebelum tarikh jualan lelong itu. Iklan Bertarikh 21-08-2023 CHONG KIAN CHONG Pelelong Berlesen 04-5792628 322 Notices NOTIS JUALAN SECARA LELONG AWAM Akta Pemegang Pajak-Gadai (81) 1972 Sandaran-sandaran yang tidak ditebus Pemegang Pajak Gadai yang tersebut dibawah ini Akan Di-jual Dengan Lelong Umum Di-59 Tingkat 1 Jln Kendi Kawasan Perniagaan Pada Hari 06hb SEPTEMBER 2023, Tmn Merak 14100 Simpang Ampat Waktu 3.30 Petang NEGERI PULAU PINANG NAMA PAJAK GADAI ALAMAT PAJAK GADAI Pajak Gadai Emas Jaya Sdn Bhd 29 Jalan Usahawan 4 13200 Kepala Batas Pajak Gadai YS Sdn Bhd 442 Jalan Penang 10000 Penang Pajak Gadai Kah Hin Sdn Bhd 6688 Jalan Bagan Ajam 13000 Butterworth YMC Capital Sdn Bhd 47 Jalan Permatang Rawa Bandar Perda 14000 Bukit Mertajam Shun Chang Sdn Bhd 228 Jalan Pasar 14000 Bukit Mertajam Sing Tai Foh Sdn Bhd 716 Jalan Raya 14200 Sungai Bakap Pajak Gadai Lian Hin Sdn Bhd 1078 Jalan Che Ahmad 14300 Nibong Tebal Pajak Gadai Sun Heng 16 Jalan Keruing Kawasan Perniagaan Simpang Ampat 14100 Simpang Ampat Yong Chang Dang Sdn Bhd 293 Jalan Burmah 10350 Penang Pajak Gadai MVJ Sdn Bhd 6679 Jalan Juru 14100 Simpang Ampat Pajak Gadai Zillion Worth Sdn Bhd 2889 Jalan Baru Bandar Perai Jaya 13600 Perai Pajak Gadai Butterworth Sdn Bhd 776 G, Taman Kekaya Jalan Bagan Ajam 13000 Butterworth Pajak Gadai Bukit Mertajam 75 G Jalan Perniagaan Gemilang 1 Pusat Perniagaan Sdn Bhd 14000 Bukit Mertajam Lee Thong Tang Sdn Bhd 167 Medan Kikik 1, Taman Inderawasih 13600 Perai. Sing Yee Li Sdn Bhd 46 Jalan Todak 2 Pusat Bandar Seberang Jaya 13700 Perai Chung Hin Pajak Gadai 313 Lebuh Chulia 10200 Penang Sandaran-sandaran tersebut boleh diperiksa dengan Pemegang Pajak Gadai berkenaan diatas pada 22hb OGOS 2023 sehingga 24hb OGOS 2023, pukul 10.00 pagi sehingga 4.00 petang sebelum tarikh jualan lelong itu. Iklan Bertarikh 21-08-2023 CHONG KIAN CHONG Pelelong Berlesen 04-5792628 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT JOHOR BAHRU IN THE STATE OF JOHOR, MALAYSIA COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO. JA-28NCC-61-05/2023 In the matter of Section 465 (1) (e) of the Companies Act 2016. And In the matter of Yow How Bus Company Berhad [Company No. : 19460100073/1455-M]. BETWEEN RATHY A/P BALAKRISHNAN [NRIC No.: 850724-01-6480] [representing the deceased, Balakrishnan A/L Kanniah] …. PETITIONER AND YOW HOW BUS COMPANY BERHAD [Company No.: 19460100073/1455-M] …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the abovenamed company by the High Court was on the 09-05-2023 presented by RATHY A/P BALAKRISHNAN [NRIC No.: 850724-01-6480][representing the deceased, Balakrishnan A/L Kanniah] whose address is at No. 11, Jalan P1 7/3, Taman Pulai Indah, 81100 Johor Bahru. And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at High Court, Johor Bahru on 26-09-2023 at 9.00 a.m. and any Creditors or Contributories of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an Order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by itself or its Counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any Creditors or Contributories of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charges for the same. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is Messrs Aida & G Ravi, Advocates & Solicitors whose address is at No. 19, Jalan Setulang, Taman Stulang, 80300 Johor Bahru [Tel No. 07-2200800/Fax No. 07-2070807/E-Mail : raviglawyer@ gmail.com] Dated this 09-05-2023. …………t.t………… Signed Petitioner’s Solicitors. NOTE-Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Messrs Aida & G Ravi notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later than twelve o’clock noon of 25-09-2023. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF WAN FAT ENGINEERING SDN. BHD. 201701017417 (1231582- V) (Incorporated In Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final General Meeting of the members of the abovenamed company will be held at No. 53, Tingkat 2, Bandar Raub Perdana, 27600 Raub, Pahang on Saturday, 23rd. September, 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: (1) To make Final Distribution of surplus assets to the contributories. (2) To receive an account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. (3) To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof shall be disposed off. YAP EE VON Liquidator Dated this 21st. August, 2023 Raub, Pahang Darul Makmur NOTE : A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. All proxies should be deposited at the Liquidator’s Office not less than 48 hours before the time for holding the Meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (Section 50(4)(a) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012) Notice is hereby given that RASA SAYANG PET SHOP PLT (LLP No. 0022858-LGN) will be making an application to the Registrar of Limited Liability Partnerships for a declaration of dissolution pursuant to section 50(2) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 within seven (7) days after the publication of this notice. Any partner or creditor of the LLP desiring to object to the application may do so in writing to the Companies Commission of Malaysia within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice. Date : 21 August 2023 NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 201201000544 (974068-V)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 10.30 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MINES FIBERLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 200701029966 (787992-K)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 09.30 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF THE ESTATE NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 32 of the Trustee Act 1949 that all claims against the Estate of KAMALAMBIKAI I/K SOMASUNDRAM(“the Estate”),late of Kuala Lumpur, who died on the 17th day of June 2009, are to be sent by registered post to the Executrices of the Estate of Kamalambikai i/k Somasundram, c/o Messrs Kee Sern, Siu & Huey of No. 468-11E(2), 2nd Floor, Block C, Rivercity, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, their full names, NRIC number, residential/business address, full description and particulars of their claims, a statement of accounts, proof of debt and the nature of the securities (if any) held by them, within two (2) months from the date of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that at the expiration of the time fixed herein, the Estate will be distributed to the person(s) entitled, having regard only to the claims of which the Executrices had notice and further claims will not be entertained. Dated this 21 August 2023. 322 Notices ROTHMANS BRANDS SDN. BHD. REGISTRATION NO.: 198501015195 (147650-T) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be convened and held at Level 19, Guoco Tower, Damansara City, No. 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, 20 September 2023 at 11.00 a.m. for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive an account from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. 2. To determine by ordinary resolution in the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and the liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. NG HENG HOOI Liquidator Dated this 21st August 2023 Notes: 1. A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting may appoint another person as his proxy to attend and vote in his stead. 2. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing under the hand of the appointor or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if the appointor is a corporation, under its common seal or the hand of its Attorney. 3. The proxy form must be deposited at Level 19, Guoco Tower, Damansara City, No. 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur not less than forty-eight (48) hours before the time for holding the meeting or at any adjournment thereof. NGUYEN THUY AN (No.Passport Vietnam: C3606261). Please be informed that you are required to attend the Johor Bahru Sessions Court 3 on 10.9.2023 at 9.00 am for the hearing of JA-58-126-08/2023 pertaining to a child born on 30.9.2020. Please be informed that the Court may grant any order it may deem fit in the event you fail to attend. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF RIMELITE SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 198901008026 (185328-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 09.00 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MVC FIBERLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 200601033769 (753528-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. LAND FOR SALE 5 Vacant Lands and 1 Vacant Land both located at Jln. Kampung Besar, Bukit Mertajam. For sale at RM28-RM33 per sqft. Total approx. 15acres in 2 difierent sites. Interested, contact Chris 012-5559398 / MayFang 012-4553727 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DIVINE WISDOM SDN. BHD. (200701018059 (776070-W)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF THE FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 a Final Meeting of the abovenamed Company will be held at the office of the liquidator, No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur on 22 SEPTEMBER 2023 (Friday) at 9.00 a.m. for the purpose of receiving the accounts and report from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. CAROL WONG TIEN TIEN Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Dated: 21 AUGUST 2023 Notes:- 1. Only members whose names appear in the Register of Member on 21 AUGUST 2023 shall be entitled to attend and vote at this Final Meeting. 2. A member entitled to attend and vote at this meeting is entitled to appoint at least one proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. There shall be no restriction as to the qualification of the proxy. A proxy appointed to attend and vote at the meeting shall have the same rights as the member to speak and vote at the meeting. 3. Where a member appoints more than one proxy, the appointment shall be invalid unless he specifies the proportion of his shareholdings to be represented by each proxy. 4. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing under the hand of the appointer or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if the appointer is a corporation, under its Common Seal or the hand of its attorney duly authorised. 5. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at the Liquidator’s office at No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur not less than forty-eight (48) hours before the time set for holding the meeting or any adjournment hereof. 204 Land for Sale 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices Item Reg No Make Model Price 1 WYJ3573 2013 PERODUA ALZA 30000 2 JKU8102 2005 FORD RANGER 12000 Scan QR to download Pickles Auctions App Bank Repossessed bikes and cars for sale by auction. All auctions are conducted via eBidding on Wednesday 23, and 30 August at 10.00am (bikes) and 11.00am (cars). All are invited to join our PUBLIC AUCTION. Viewing and inspection on every Tuesday from 9.30am - 5.30pm. Download Pickles Auctions app to view all auction listings or visit www.pickles.my For more information call 016-6999170, WhatsApp 012-5553727 or email [email protected] PICKLES ASIA SDN BHD [1231292-D] Lot 19391, Batu 8 1⁄2, Jalan Klang Lama, Taman Desaria, 46000 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTIS JUALAN SECARA LELONG AWAM Akta Pemegang Pajak-Gadai (81) 1972 Sandaran-sandaran yang tidak ditebus Pemegang Pajak Gadai yang tersebut dibawah ini Akan Di-jual Dengan Lelong Umum Di-12 Tingkat 1 Lrg 1 Tmn Ria 08000 Sungai Petani Pada Hari 05hb SEPTEMBER 2023, Waktu 9.00 pagi NEGERI KEDAH NAMA PAJAK GADAI ALAMAT PAJAK GADAI Pajak Gadai EMJ Sdn Bhd 12 Lorong 1 Taman Ria 08000 Sungai Petani Pajak Gadai Kah Yuit Sdn Bhd 15 Taman Cenderawasih Jalan Kelang Lama 09000 Kulim Pajak Gadai Kah Yong Sdn Bhd 6A Jalan Kampung Baru 08000 Sungai Petani Min Seng Pawnshop 7 Jalan Raya 09300 Kuala Ketil Pajak Gadai San Heng Loong Sdn Bhd LC 1203 Jalan Baling 09400 Padang Serai Pajak Gadai Sin Yit Foh Sdn Bhd 23-B Main Road 06300 Kuala Nerang Pajak Gadai Sing Lee Seng Sdn Bhd 5 Jalan Semiling 08100 Bedong Pajak Gadai Poh Fook Sdn Bhd 52G Jalan Kuala Kedah Taman Gunung Indah 05400 Alor Setar Pajak Gadai Sungai Petani Sdn Bhd 174 Jalan Kuala Ketil 08000 Sungai Petani Sandaran-sandaran tersebut boleh diperiksa dengan Pemegang Pajak Gadai berkenaan diatas pada 22hb AUGUST 2023 sehingga 24hb AUGUST 2023, pukul 10.00 pagi sehingga 4.00 petang sebelum tarikh jualan lelong itu. Iklan Bertarikh 21-08-2023 CHONG KIAN CHONG Pelelong Berlesen 04-5792628 322 Notices NOTIS JUALAN SECARA LELONG AWAM Akta Pemegang Pajak-Gadai (81) 1972 Sandaran-sandaran yang tidak ditebus Pemegang Pajak Gadai yang tersebut dibawah ini Akan Di-jual Dengan Lelong Umum Di-59 Tingkat 1 Jln Kendi Kawasan Perniagaan Pada Hari 06hb SEPTEMBER 2023, Tmn Merak 14100 Simpang Ampat Waktu 3.30 Petang NEGERI PULAU PINANG NAMA PAJAK GADAI ALAMAT PAJAK GADAI Pajak Gadai Emas Jaya Sdn Bhd 29 Jalan Usahawan 4 13200 Kepala Batas Pajak Gadai YS Sdn Bhd 442 Jalan Penang 10000 Penang Pajak Gadai Kah Hin Sdn Bhd 6688 Jalan Bagan Ajam 13000 Butterworth YMC Capital Sdn Bhd 47 Jalan Permatang Rawa Bandar Perda 14000 Bukit Mertajam Shun Chang Sdn Bhd 228 Jalan Pasar 14000 Bukit Mertajam Sing Tai Foh Sdn Bhd 716 Jalan Raya 14200 Sungai Bakap Pajak Gadai Lian Hin Sdn Bhd 1078 Jalan Che Ahmad 14300 Nibong Tebal Pajak Gadai Sun Heng 16 Jalan Keruing Kawasan Perniagaan Simpang Ampat 14100 Simpang Ampat Yong Chang Dang Sdn Bhd 293 Jalan Burmah 10350 Penang Pajak Gadai MVJ Sdn Bhd 6679 Jalan Juru 14100 Simpang Ampat Pajak Gadai Zillion Worth Sdn Bhd 2889 Jalan Baru Bandar Perai Jaya 13600 Perai Pajak Gadai Butterworth Sdn Bhd 776 G, Taman Kekaya Jalan Bagan Ajam 13000 Butterworth Pajak Gadai Bukit Mertajam 75 G Jalan Perniagaan Gemilang 1 Pusat Perniagaan Sdn Bhd 14000 Bukit Mertajam Lee Thong Tang Sdn Bhd 167 Medan Kikik 1, Taman Inderawasih 13600 Perai. Sing Yee Li Sdn Bhd 46 Jalan Todak 2 Pusat Bandar Seberang Jaya 13700 Perai Chung Hin Pajak Gadai 313 Lebuh Chulia 10200 Penang Sandaran-sandaran tersebut boleh diperiksa dengan Pemegang Pajak Gadai berkenaan diatas pada 22hb OGOS 2023 sehingga 24hb OGOS 2023, pukul 10.00 pagi sehingga 4.00 petang sebelum tarikh jualan lelong itu. Iklan Bertarikh 21-08-2023 CHONG KIAN CHONG Pelelong Berlesen 04-5792628 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT JOHOR BAHRU IN THE STATE OF JOHOR, MALAYSIA COMPANIES WINDING-UP NO. JA-28NCC-61-05/2023 In the matter of Section 465 (1) (e) of the Companies Act 2016. And In the matter of Yow How Bus Company Berhad [Company No. : 19460100073/1455-M]. BETWEEN RATHY A/P BALAKRISHNAN [NRIC No.: 850724-01-6480] [representing the deceased, Balakrishnan A/L Kanniah] …. PETITIONER AND YOW HOW BUS COMPANY BERHAD [Company No.: 19460100073/1455-M] …RESPONDENT ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the abovenamed company by the High Court was on the 09-05-2023 presented by RATHY A/P BALAKRISHNAN [NRIC No.: 850724-01-6480][representing the deceased, Balakrishnan A/L Kanniah] whose address is at No. 11, Jalan P1 7/3, Taman Pulai Indah, 81100 Johor Bahru. And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the Court sitting at High Court, Johor Bahru on 26-09-2023 at 9.00 a.m. and any Creditors or Contributories of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an Order on the said Petition may appear at the time of hearing by itself or its Counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any Creditors or Contributories of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charges for the same. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is Messrs Aida & G Ravi, Advocates & Solicitors whose address is at No. 19, Jalan Setulang, Taman Stulang, 80300 Johor Bahru [Tel No. 07-2200800/Fax No. 07-2070807/E-Mail : raviglawyer@ gmail.com] Dated this 09-05-2023. …………t.t………… Signed Petitioner’s Solicitors. NOTE-Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to the abovenamed Messrs Aida & G Ravi notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed not later than twelve o’clock noon of 25-09-2023. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF WAN FAT ENGINEERING SDN. BHD. 201701017417 (1231582- V) (Incorporated In Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 that a Final General Meeting of the members of the abovenamed company will be held at No. 53, Tingkat 2, Bandar Raub Perdana, 27600 Raub, Pahang on Saturday, 23rd. September, 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: (1) To make Final Distribution of surplus assets to the contributories. (2) To receive an account from the Liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. (3) To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator thereof shall be disposed off. YAP EE VON Liquidator Dated this 21st. August, 2023 Raub, Pahang Darul Makmur NOTE : A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. All proxies should be deposited at the Liquidator’s Office not less than 48 hours before the time for holding the Meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (Section 50(4)(a) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012) Notice is hereby given that RASA SAYANG PET SHOP PLT (LLP No. 0022858-LGN) will be making an application to the Registrar of Limited Liability Partnerships for a declaration of dissolution pursuant to section 50(2) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 within seven (7) days after the publication of this notice. Any partner or creditor of the LLP desiring to object to the application may do so in writing to the Companies Commission of Malaysia within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice. Date : 21 August 2023 NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 201201000544 (974068-V)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 10.30 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MINES FIBERLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 200701029966 (787992-K)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 09.30 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF THE ESTATE NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 32 of the Trustee Act 1949 that all claims against the Estate of KAMALAMBIKAI I/K SOMASUNDRAM(“the Estate”),late of Kuala Lumpur, who died on the 17th day of June 2009, are to be sent by registered post to the Executrices of the Estate of Kamalambikai i/k Somasundram, c/o Messrs Kee Sern, Siu & Huey of No. 468-11E(2), 2nd Floor, Block C, Rivercity, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, 51200 Kuala Lumpur, their full names, NRIC number, residential/business address, full description and particulars of their claims, a statement of accounts, proof of debt and the nature of the securities (if any) held by them, within two (2) months from the date of this Notice. TAKE NOTICE that at the expiration of the time fixed herein, the Estate will be distributed to the person(s) entitled, having regard only to the claims of which the Executrices had notice and further claims will not be entertained. Dated this 21 August 2023. 322 Notices ROTHMANS BRANDS SDN. BHD. REGISTRATION NO.: 198501015195 (147650-T) (Incorporated in Malaysia) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the Company will be convened and held at Level 19, Guoco Tower, Damansara City, No. 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, 20 September 2023 at 11.00 a.m. for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive an account from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. 2. To determine by ordinary resolution in the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and the liquidator thereof shall be disposed of. NG HENG HOOI Liquidator Dated this 21st August 2023 Notes: 1. A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting may appoint another person as his proxy to attend and vote in his stead. 2. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing under the hand of the appointor or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if the appointor is a corporation, under its common seal or the hand of its Attorney. 3. The proxy form must be deposited at Level 19, Guoco Tower, Damansara City, No. 6, Jalan Damanlela, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur not less than forty-eight (48) hours before the time for holding the meeting or at any adjournment thereof. NGUYEN THUY AN (No.Passport Vietnam: C3606261). Please be informed that you are required to attend the Johor Bahru Sessions Court 3 on 10.9.2023 at 9.00 am for the hearing of JA-58-126-08/2023 pertaining to a child born on 30.9.2020. Please be informed that the Court may grant any order it may deem fit in the event you fail to attend. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF RIMELITE SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 198901008026 (185328-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 09.00 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MVC FIBERLYNX SDN BHD [Company Registration No: 200601033769 (753528-H)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 21st September 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Account showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted, the property of the Company has been disposed of and to hear any explanation that may be given by the Liquidator. 2. To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 21st August 2023 Wong Heng Boon Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Note: A member entitled to attend and vote in this meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. The instrument appointing such a proxy must be deposited at the office of the Liquidator, Wisma Laxton, 9-3 Jalan Desa, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur not less than 48 hours before the time of the meeting. LAND FOR SALE 5 Vacant Lands and 1 Vacant Land both located at Jln. Kampung Besar, Bukit Mertajam. For sale at RM28-RM33 per sqft. Total approx. 15acres in 2 difierent sites. Interested, contact Chris 012-5559398 / MayFang 012-4553727 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF DIVINE WISDOM SDN. BHD. (200701018059 (776070-W)) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE OF THE FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459 of the Companies Act, 2016 a Final Meeting of the abovenamed Company will be held at the office of the liquidator, No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur on 22 SEPTEMBER 2023 (Friday) at 9.00 a.m. for the purpose of receiving the accounts and report from the liquidator showing the manner in which the winding up has been conducted and to hear explanations that may be given by the liquidator. CAROL WONG TIEN TIEN Liquidator Kuala Lumpur Dated: 21 AUGUST 2023 Notes:- 1. Only members whose names appear in the Register of Member on 21 AUGUST 2023 shall be entitled to attend and vote at this Final Meeting. 2. A member entitled to attend and vote at this meeting is entitled to appoint at least one proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. There shall be no restriction as to the qualification of the proxy. A proxy appointed to attend and vote at the meeting shall have the same rights as the member to speak and vote at the meeting. 3. Where a member appoints more than one proxy, the appointment shall be invalid unless he specifies the proportion of his shareholdings to be represented by each proxy. 4. The instrument appointing a proxy shall be in writing under the hand of the appointer or of his attorney duly authorised in writing or, if the appointer is a corporation, under its Common Seal or the hand of its attorney duly authorised. 5. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at the Liquidator’s office at No. 29-2, Jalan 46A/26, Taman Sri Rampai, 53300 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur not less than forty-eight (48) hours before the time set for holding the meeting or any adjournment hereof. 204 Land for Sale 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices Chapman denies NZ underestimated UAE NEW ZEALAND batter Mark Chapman denied they took the United Arab Emirates (UAE) lightly after their shock loss to the minnows in the second T20 International on Saturday. After narrowly avoiding a defeat in the opener on Friday, the tourists managed a below-par 142-8, which the UAE chased down with 26 balls to spare to register their first victory against New Zealand in any format of the game. New Zealand were reeling at 65-5 in the 12th over before Chapman, who topscored for his side with a breezy 63, lent some respectability to their score even though it was not enough in the end. The UAE captain Muhammad Waseem (55) and No. 4 batter Asif Khan, who made a whirlwind 48, engineered a clinical chase to fashion their seven-wicket victory to level the series 1-1. “I think we’ve seen associate cricket is going from strength to strength,” Chapman told reporters after the loss, denying lowering the guard against a team 13 rungs lower in the official rankings. “The T20 World Cup in Australia highlighted that with some associate nations turning over some test nations. “It’s certainly no surprise to see the way they’ve played and the confidence they have with some really strong local tournaments here. “It’s producing some good talent.” New Zealand captain Tim Southee also heaped praise on their opponents. “A lot of the credit has to go to the UAE team. They outplayed us in all three facets,” Southee said. “We probably didn’t learn enough from the other day, we made a few mistakes that were similar to the other day and we were made to pay for that. “We just have to be bettered in all three areas.” – Reuters

22 theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 SPORTS 5680/2023 20/08/2023 (SUN) 1628 2713 0899 4288 3231 3858 7327 7135 9589 2044 6350 1035 9312 4656 4521 7529 4186 3825 3612 4618 4118 6466 6013 13,243,869.45 1628 1628 1628 0899 0899 2713 0899 0899 2713 2713 1628 2713 776,782.79 1628 2713 0899 RAT 56078 66561 6561 561 36644 6 1 5 3 093953 93953 3953 953 09395 0939 093 0 9 8,897,805.27 4,934,132.02 8 27 45 50 51 52 100,000.00 7 16 21 40 43 44 11 24 26 46 48 50 13 24,241,488.28 RM178,734 Toto 4D Jackpot 2 (i-System) won on 19/08/2023 ! Bellingham stars again for Madrid Real beat Almeria to maintain 100% La Liga start NEW ARRIVAL Jude Bellingham struck twice for Real Madrid to help them come from behind to beat Almeria 3-1 in La Liga yesterday and said he was “ten times better” than last season. After netting on his debut the previous weekend, Bellingham again played a key role for Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they maintained their 100% start to the season. Vinicius Junior added the third after being teed up by Bellingham to wrap up Los Blancos’ victory at the Power Horse Stadium on Spain’s east coast, after Sergio Arribas had sent the hosts ahead early on. Without talisman and Ballon d’Or holder Karim Benzema, who left the club in the summer, Osimhen at the double VICTOR OSIMHEN and Lautaro Martinez both struck opening day doubles yesterday as Napoli got their Serie A title defence off to a winning start at Frosinone and Inter Milan beat Monza 2-0. Nigeria striker Osimhen netted in each half to help ensure the champions came from behind to win 3-1 on Rudi Garcia’s debut as coach following the resignation of new Italy boss Luciano Spalletti. Matteo Politano scored Napoli’s other goal, getting the away side back on level terms midway through the first half after Abdou Harroui had given hosts Frosinone a shock early lead from the penalty spot. Osimhen scored 31 times last season, including the goal which sealed the league title, and he is in talks for a contract extension despite big-money interest from clubs abroad. “The president is the boss. We are still negotiating, maybe at the end of the transfer window we will see what will happen,” added Osimhen, whose current deal expires in June 2025, to DAZN. “But for now I’m a Napoli player which is the most important thing and I will give my heart and soul for the team.” Martinez added: “Today we needed to make a statement and we did that, we got off on the right foot. “We’re a good team and we’ve brought in good players…we were all ready today, including the new boys.” – AFP Malen strike hands Dortmund victory BORUSSIA DORTMUND forward Donyell Malen scored two minutes from time to snatch a 1-0 home win over Cologne in their opening Bundesliga fixture yesterday. Dortmund lacked offensive fluidity throughout the game, carving out few chances in either half as they shook off the summer cobwebs. With the match heading towards a rare goalless draw, Malen curled the ball in from a corner in front of Dortmund’s famous yellow wall, sending the home fans into raptures. Dortmund withstood a late charge from Cologne to hold on to a valuable three points. “We’re unsatisfied, the boys are unsatisfied, and that’s a good sign. We’re happy about the three points,” Dortmund manager Edin Terzic said. Mbappe scores on PSG return KYLIAN MBAPPE won and converted a penalty on his Paris Saint-Germain return yesterday in a 1-1 draw at Toulouse after being reinstated to the first team following a contract dispute with the French champions. The France captain started on the bench but came on in the 51st minute and promptly broke the deadlock, drawing a foul from Rasmus Nicolaisen and tucking away the resulting spot-kick just past the hour mark. Zakaria Aboukhlal equalised with a penalty three minutes from time after he was tugged back by Morocco teammate Achraf Hakimi, leaving Luis Enrique still searching for his first win as PSG coach. “The result is a disappointment. The draw is mainly down to a lack of luck,” said the Spaniard. SIDENETTING Bellingham has quickly filled the void with three goals in his first two games after his move from the Bundesliga. The former Borussia Dortmund and Birmingham City star has hit the ground running in Spain, wearing former Madrid great Zinedine Zidane’s No. 5 shirt. “I’m 10 times better than I was last season,” Bellingham told Real Madrid TV. “I feel really comfortable with these players and I’m learning every day. “The level here is so high and I’m like a sponge, taking in everything my teammates tell me. That’s why I’ve started the season so well.” Real Madrid started German duo Toni Kroos and Antonio Rudiger in place of Eduardo Camavinga and the injured Eder Militao. Andriy Lunin continued in goal despite Kepa Arrizabalaga’s arrival from Chelsea to help cover for Thibaut Courtois, set to miss most of the season. The Ukrainian goalkeeper might have done better with Arribas’s opener in the third minute, a header from Lucas Robertone’s cross at the end of a break. Former Madrid player Arribas sprinted forward from deep to lose Fran Garcia and nod past Lunin, following his summer switch. “Lunin played very well, like in Bilbao,” said Ancelotti. “We have the same confidence in him as in Kepa, who sooner or later will have to play – it might be in the next game.” Bellingham levelled from close range, thinking quickly after the ball dropped to him in the box to add to his opening day strike. The England international’s effort survived a VAR check for offside and handball. Bellingham, deployed as a No. 10 again by Ancelotti, was a tricky presence for Almeria to handle in the box for his towering size and skill. Kroos put Real Madrid ahead just before halftime with a typically classy finish but the goal was ruled out for a foul by Dani Carvajal. Madrid eventually took the lead when Bellingham nodded Kroos’s cross home on the hour mark, his height once again proving a useful weapon for Madrid. The midfielder followed in his younger brother Jobe’s footsteps, after the Sunderland forward netted a brace against Rotherham earlier Saturday in the Championship. “He is adapting very well to La Liga, to our style, he’s very good,” Ancelotti told reporters. – AFP Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham (left) in action with Almeria’s Adri Embarba (centre). – REUTERSPIX 087 470 + OX 223 799 +ROOSTER 260 347 + DOG Draw Date: 20/08/23 (Sun) Draw No: 5627/23 Venue: PERAK TURF CLUB 7470 3799 0347 7802 + 0919 6278 + 8652 0696 + 8503 2009 + 1046 1681 + 8387 6203 + 2128 5045 + 8657 5357 + 6039 9141 + 3025 7118 + 8877 RM7,017,832.10 7470 + 3799 3799 + 7470 7470 + 0347 0347 + 7470 3799 + 0347 0347 + 3799 RM562,140.40 RM1,880,327.50 RM1,766,527.70 RM2,458,691.30 677 802 290 919 786 278 268 652 630 696 908 503 552 009 541 046 761 681 998 387 296 203 532 128 545 045 558 657 905 357 606 039 259 141 743 025 867 118 388 877 470 799 347 RM661,939.50 470 + 799 + 347 799 + 347 + 470 470 + 347 + 799 347 + 470 + 799 799 + 470 + 347 347 + 799 + 470 Don’t missed out the Special Draw on 29 August 2023!

23 * SPORTS theSUN ON MONDAY | AUGUST 21, 2023 ‘We deserved to win’ Guardiola applauds City players mentality following Newcastle victory PEP GUARDIOLA hailed a mature performance from Manchester City as they claimed a hard-fought 1-0 win over Newcastle yesterday. Julian Alvarez scored the only goal of a tight Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium in which the treble winners impressively stifled any threat from the visitors. Newcastle had travelled in buoyant mood after their opening-day 5-1 defeat of Aston Villa the previous week, while City may have had reason to feel lethargic after their draining Super Cup outing against Sevilla in Athens on Wednesday. Yet City played with a confidence and determination that overcame any fatigue and Guardiola, who made just two changes to his side and did not make any substitutions, was highly impressed. Guardiola said: “This is the second game of the season but it is proof, the reason why we won a lot. “The mindset and mentality of this group of players amazes me every time, surprises me every time. Against that team and the conditions we arrived, with a lot of injuries and no rest – they played really well. “How they defended and how they ran and the commitment of everyone was absolutely amazing. We played really good, we deserved to win. We could have scored more goals. “The difference of the winning teams is the mentality. This group of players, for many years, they have done it and today again. “I know we are not in the best condition and have five or six important players out but it is what it is. This is the challenge. The Premier League decided to play today. OK, we accept the challenge.” At one point during the game, Guardiola was spoken to by a fan who apparently had urged him to make a tactical change. “He said to me ‘make a sub’,” the Spaniard said. “I said ‘come sit here and do it!’ I didn’t know which one (to make). It was a joke. The game was in a good tempo, a good rhythm. I didn’t see the players too tired. It wasn’t easy to make the changes so I didn’t do it.” Newcastle boss Eddie Howe was frustrated with the result but was positive enough about the performance, which he feels his side can build upon. He said: “I think on tonight’s evidence there is stuff to improve. We’re a little bit disappointed overall because we know we can be better, but you have to be at your very best to get something here. “I thought there were some good bits. We had moments we could hurt them but didn’t have our quality. The second half was much better. “I was frustrated we didn’t create more. The last pass was missing and we had a couple of shots from range but nothing glaring and that’s the frustration.” – The Independent Klopp to consider red card appeal JURGEN KLOPP suggested Liverpool will appeal against Alexis Mac Allister’s dismissal after his side came from behind to beat Bournemouth 3-1 at Anfield. In a dramatic home opener, Liverpool needed goals from Luis Diaz, Mo Salah and Diogo Jota to respond to a third-minute strike from Antoine Semenyo, and played the final half an hour with 10 men after Mac Allister’s home debut was cut short in the 58th minute. The World Cup winner was shown a straight red by referee Thomas Bramall after catching Ryan Christie with a high boot, but the decision looked harsh. “I think the amount of times I was asked about it shows it’s worth discussing again, which we will probably do,” Klopp said. “I asked Macca and he said, ‘I touched him but not really’. That’s all he told me. “After the game I saw it back. I think if you have a list of points, what we need to give a red card, besides contact there’s nothing else, no other boxes ticked. “It’s a decision we all agree if he gives a yellow card VAR would not overturn it and if he gives a red card VAR will not overturn it because contact means it’s not a clear and obvious mistake. “But now the punishment, 40 minutes with 10 men is already punishment enough. But let’s see, we have to talk to the authorities.” Liverpool were leading 2-1 when Mac Allister was sent off, but far from retreating, they seemed fired up by the sense of injustice, with Joto scoring the third four minutes later. “The start of the game was obviously not how we wanted it,” Klopp said. “We conceded the first goal after a minute and then it was offside so you think that’s the wake-up call we needed. “Then we concede another goal two minutes later and then there’s a yellow card for our goalie so it’s not what you need but you are working with human beings so you have to figure it out.” – The Independent Messi leads Miami to first trophy LIONEL MESSI scored a screamer and won his first trophy in North American football as Inter Miami beat Nashville on penalties (10-9) after their final ended 1-1 in 90 minutes. The Argentine World Cup winner had put Miami ahead in the 24th minute with a wonder strike into the top corner but Fafa Picault levelled for Nashville in the second half. After Messi hit the post and Leonardo Campana missed a last second chance to win the game in regulation for Miami, the game went to a shoot-out which ended in a duel between the two keepers and Elliot Panicco’s shot being saved by Miami’s Drake Callender. Messi and his teammates rushed to celebrate with the American goalkeeper, who had made some key saves late in the game to keep his team alive. Miami, in their third season of existence, were rock bottom of Major League Soccer when Messi joined them a month ago but Messi, along with Spanish pair Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, has utterly transformed the team leading them on a seven game unbeaten run to the League Cup title. Co-owner David Beckham, who created the club, said he was stunned by the way the former Barcelona trio had been able to bring about change so quickly. “It is like a movie, you watch these players play and it is, emotionally, everything about their play is beautiful,” he said. Midfielder Busquets added: “I am very happy to win our first title in just one month, the club’s first. The team is growing by leaps and bounds and we are very happy. “We have infected the team with our spirit, our work, our character and experience. We are making a solid team … And then we have Leo, who makes a difference because he’s the best in the world.” – AFP De Zerbi hails Seagulls BRIGHTON boss Roberto De Zerbi said he is “lucky” to manage the club after his side delivered another devastating attacking display to cruise past Wolves and make it two wins from two at the start of the Premier League season. A stunning solo goal from Kaoru Mitoma broke the deadlock at Molineux. Wolves had chances to equalise but were made to pay for their profligacy in brutal fashion as the Seagulls scored three times in nine second half minutes, Pervis Estupinan doubling the visitors’ lead with a low finish 41 seconds after the restart. Two fine close-range finishes from the superb Solly March – in front of watching England manager Gareth Southgate – gave Brighton a 4-0 lead before second-half substitute Hwang Heechan pulled one back for Wolves with a well-placed header. “I’m really pleased with the result and the performance,” De Zerbi told BBC Match of the Day. “I have an incredible squad (with) the right mix between young and old players. We’re happy, but we know our potential is bigger. My work is to push them more and get better.” Brentford down 10-man Fulham YOANE WISSA’S opener and Bryan Mbeumo’s double gave Brentford a comfortable win over west London rivals Fulham, who were reduced to 10 men at Craven Cottage. A defensive error from Fulham centreback Issa Diop set up Wissa to open the scoring on the stroke of halftime. In the 64th minute, Wissa went through on goal only to be pushed over by Tim Ream in the box as he attempted to shoot. The Fulham captain was given a second yellow card, with Mbeumo calmly netting the penalty in off the post. And the Brentford winger added a third in the 92nd minute, tapping in Kristoffer Ajer’s low cross. The visitors are without last season’s top scorer Ivan Toney, who is banned until January for breaking betting rules, but manager Thomas Frank will be relieved by the sparkling early form of his teammates. “I’ve been asked, ‘what will we do when Ivan is not here?’” Frank told BBC Match of the Day after fulltime. “We have seen that we have scored goals. We are very confident. We have been cool and haven’t rushed out to get another striker.” ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Fulham 0 Brentford 3 (Wissa 44, Mbeumo 66-pen, 90), Liverpool 3 (Diaz 28, Salah 36, Jota 62) Bournemouth 1 (Semenyo 3), Tottenham 2 (Sarr 49, Martinez 83-og) Manchester United 0, Wolves 1 (Hwang 61) Brighton 4 (Mitoma 15, Estupinan 46, March 51, 55), Manchester City 1 (Alvarez 31) Newcastle 0. CHAMPIONSHIP: Blackburn 1 Hull 2, Bristol City 0 Birmingham 2, Leicester 2 Cardiff 1, Middlesbrough 1 Huddersfield 1, Plymouth 1 Southampton 2, QPR 0 Ipswich 1, Sheffield Wednesday 0 Preston 1, Stoke 1 Watford 0, Sunderland 2 Rotherham 1, Swansea 1 Coventry 1. LA LIGA: Real Sociedad 1 (Barrenetxea 22) Celta Vigo 1 (Mingueza 90+4), Almeria 1 (Arribas 3) Real Madrid 3 (Bellingham 19, 60, Vinicius 73), Osasuna 0 Athletic Bilbao 2 (Williams 11, Guruzeta 20). SERIE A: Empoli 0 Verona 1 (Bonazzoli 75), Frosinone 1 (Harroui 7-pen) Napoli 3 (Politano 24, Osimhen 42, 79), Genoa 1 (Biraschi 59) Fiorentina 4 (Biraghi 5, Bonaventura 11, Gonzalez 40, Mandragora 57), Inter Milan 2 (Martinez 8, 76) Monza 0. BUNDESLIGA: Borussia Dortmund 1 Cologne 0, Bayer Leverkusen 3 RB Leipzig 2, Wolfsburg 2 Heidenheim 0, Hoffenheim 1 Freiburg 2, Augsburg 4 Borussia Moenchengladbach 4, Stuttgart 5 Bochum 0. FRENCH LIGUE 1: Lyon 1 Montpellier 4, Toulouse 1 Paris Saint-Germain 1. SIDENETTING RESULTS Teammates hold up Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi as they celebrate after winning the Leagues Cup final against Nashville SC yesterday. – AFPPIX

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] ERIK TEN HAG cut a frustrated figure after Manchester United suffered a 2-0 defeat at Tottenham and insisted their wasteful display showed why Rasmus Hojlund was signed. The Red Devils went down in the capital yesterday after Pape Sarr slid home the opener in the 49th minute before Lisandro Martinez deflected the ball into his own net late on. United could have easily been ahead by this point with Marcus Rashford denied by Guglielmo Vicario and Bruno Fernandes heading wide from six yards, while Antony curled against the post minutes after Sarr’s goal. Tottenham did also create plenty of opportunities in the first half but stepped up their display after the break to earn new head coach Ange Postecoglou a maiden Premier League win. It left United to reflect on what might have been and Ten Hag, who watched them claim a nervy 1-0 win over Wolves last week, pointed to injured £64 million (RM371m) forward Hojlund as a reason for optimism. “You have seen today, the performance first half (was) very good, but you have to understand you have to score a goal,” he insisted. “Because of the meaning of the first goal, players have to take responsibility. Focus, passion and desire in this moment to keep the overview and score the first goal. “It’s about belief and we believe these players because of last year as well. They can score goals. “But it is obvious why we signed a striker. If everything goes well, (Anthony) Martial is on (his) way back, Hojlund is coming, so we have more players capable to score a goal, but also the players on the pitch, they can score goals.” Ten Hag named two goalkeepers on the bench with Harry Maguire out with a minor injury and Brandon Williams and Donny van de Beek also not considered due to the futures of the trio being uncertain. He added: “Yesterday in final training, H (Maguire) was out with a small issue. So after Sept 1 everything can change, but we need players who are totally with their heads in our team.” While United will go back to the drawing board ahead of Nottingham Forest’s visit this weekend, Spurs fans are back on cloud nine. Postecoglou credited the home crowd for helping his young, new-look team navigate their way through some nervy opening stages, but they delivered a superb display after with Sarr firing home from Dejan Kulusevski’s cross before Ben Davies’ scuffed effort was diverted past Andre Onana by Martinez. “The atmosphere was incredible. Our supporters were outstanding. The energy they created in the stadium right from the first whistle was brilliant and it helped us. In the first half we just looked a bit nervous,” Postecoglou said before he reflected on taking everything in post-match. “But we got them in at halftime and settled them down a little bit. Then I thought the boys were brilliant. “You want to win and that gives everyone the joy they need but I felt the manner in which we played, it’s a great starting point so when the final whistle goes from my perspective that’s a fantastic fertile ground for me to get going. “You want to feel that moment because I have always said, to me I love what football does to people, particularly in those moments. “So, you kind of take a moment to think about the 60,000 here or the ones who were watching at home because they will be smiling for the rest of the week. “I love that it does that, the game. For me that moment is just about appreciating I am pretty blessed to be doing what I am doing, being in the middle of a stadium leading a fantastic football club and then you start to think about next week, mate.” – The Independent MONDAY • AUGUST 21, 2023 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Goal-shy Devils ‘It is obvious why we signed a striker’, says United boss Ten Hag after defeat at Tottenham Spain tame Lionesses to win Women’s World Cup for first time SPAIN won the Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history with skipper Olga Carmona sweeping in the only goal for a deserved 1-0 victory over England in yesterday’s final. In front of a crowd of nearly 76,000 at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Spain were the more accomplished side and had more chances, including missing a second-half penalty. Spain’s triumph is vindication for Jorge Vilda and the Spanish football federation, who stuck with the coach even after 15 players last year said they no longer wanted to represent their country under him. England coach Sarina Wiegman, who has now suffered back-to-back defeats in the final, and her European champions can have few complaints. Spain are the fifth team to lift the World Cup since the tournament began in 1991, joining outgoing champions the United States, Germany, Norway and Japan. In front of Spain’s Queen Letizia, defender Carmona scored what turned out to be the winner, rampaging from leftback to thrash the ball in low and hard on 29 minutes. Wiegman had resisted the temptation to recall Chelsea attacker Lauren James after her two-match ban and kept faith with the team that beat co-hosts Australia 3-1 in the semifinals. Playing in their blue second kit, England had the first sniff of a chance in the fifth minute but Lauren Hemp shot weakly at goalkeeper Cata Coll. There was little to choose between them in the opening exchanges before both teams had golden opportunities on the quarter-hour mark. First, Manchester City forward Hemp struck the bar with a curler that had Coll well beaten. Spain went up the other end and should have scored but Salma Paralluelo – in for Alexia Putellas – missed the ball in the six-yard box. Then Alba Redondo hit a first-time strike straight at goalkeeper Mary Earps with the England goal gaping. Hemp then had another tame effort saved, before the game was momentarily held up in the 24th minute when a spectator darted on to the pitch before being wrestled away by security. Five minutes later Spain, who had never won a knockout game at the Women’s World Cup until this tournament and had lost 4-0 to Japan in the group phase, were ahead. Mariona Caldentey slid in an inch-perfect pass for Carmona, who came flying unmarked down the left before lashing the ball into the bottom corner. Vilda, who recalled three of the 15 mutineers for the World Cup, did not even raise a smile on the sidelines. England looked uncharacteristically rattled and the 19-year-old Barcelona attacker Paralluelo, who was a constant threat, shaved the post with the last kick of the half. Wiegman, who suffered agony in the final four years ago when her Netherlands team lost 2-0 to the United States, made a double change at the break. James and Chloe Kelly replaced Rachel Daly and Alessia Russo as Wiegman switched from a back-five to a flat back-four. But it was Spain who nearly doubled their lead almost straight after halftime, Caldentey dinking inside and forcing Earps to turn the ball around the post. Hemp was booked for clipping Laia Codina as England’s frustration mounted. Midfield schemer Aitana Bonmati, who has been one of the players of the tournament and was one of the three refuseniks recalled by Vilda, fired narrowly over Earps’s bar. With 20 minutes left, Spain were awarded a penalty when VAR was called into action and, after a long review, Keira Walsh was judged to have handled the ball in the box. Jennifer Hermoso stepped up but her penalty was weak and Earps saved comfortably to keep England just about alive. Officials indicated 13 minutes of injury time at the end, but if anything, it was Spain who looked the more likely to score as England’s dreams of a first World Cup melted away. – AFP CHAMPIONS… Spain’s players celebrate with the trophy after winning the Australia and New Zealand 2023 Women’s World Cup final at Stadium Australia in Sydney yesterday. Spain’s Olga Camona (front, 4th right) scored the only goal against England in the final. – AFPPIX