Survey reveals more than 600,000 adults grappling with communication difficulties, but only 12% sought professional help for condition. Report on — page 4 Spectre of Covid-19 MCO restrictions still lingering Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 WEDNESDAY JUNE 5, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8537 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) With report stating Malaysians leading globally with 63% using e-wallets for transactions, expert says Central Bank likely to cut printing ringgit bills. Report on — page 3 Court allows date change for case involving RM6.6 billion after application by lawyers citing more than 100 documents still not submitted to defence team. Report on — page 5 As the public finds it more convenient to make payments using e-wallets, electronic spending would increase while physical currency usage would decline. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN Cashless trend may prompt reduction of physical money Najib, Irwan CBT trial postponed to June 19 Retirement etirement framework framework reform needed reform needed PM: New solutions required to ensure financial security for individuals aged above 60, many of whom currently continue working to meet living expenses. Report on hpage 2
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 2 Malacca Yang di-Pertua Negeri takes oath for second term MALACCA: Tun Mohd Ali Rustam took his oath of office as the Malacca Yang di-Pertua Negeri for the second term at the Balai Istiadat in Kompleks Seri Negeri here yesterday. The event was witnessed by Malacca High Court Judge Datuk Anselm Charles Fernandis and state financial officer Datuk Salhah Salleh, who is performing the duties of the state secretary. Also present were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and his wife Datin Seri Zuriyah Ab Aziz, State Assembly Speaker Datuk Ibrahim Durum, Malacca High Court Judge Mohd Radzi Abdul Hamid and Kuala Lumpur High Court Judge Datuk Seri Mohd Firuz Jaffril. Mohd Ali received his instrument of appointment from His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim at Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur on May 28. Mohd Ali, 75, was first appointed as the seventh Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Malacca on June 4, 2020, replacing Tun Mohd Khalil Yaakob. His reappointment is for a fouryear term. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences from Universiti Sains Malaysia. He served as Batu Berendam MP from 1995 to 1999 and ninth Malacca chief minister from 1999 to 2013. – Bernama M’sia remains top destination for Muslim travellers KHIVA: Malaysia has received over 4.5 million Muslim travellers from abroad and managed to retain its position as the premier destination for Muslims in 2023, according to the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry. This marks the ninth time Malaysia has clinched the top spot in the MastercardCrescentrating Global Muslim Travel Index. The nation was also named the “Top Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year” for the second year running in the Halal in Travel Awards 2024, showcasing the country’s intense efforts in growing the Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Hospitality segment. These were revealed by the ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman in his speech at the 12th Islamic Conference of Tourism Ministers at Khiva in Uzbekistan. “With a two billion Muslim population worldwide, the Muslim tourist market is shaping a new and significant segment of the tourism industry. This is strategically advantageous for Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) member states to meet the growing demand for Muslim-friendly products and services, especially in the tourism supply chain. “Therefore, we must adopt a holistic approach to Islamic tourism development that prioritises sustainability, resilience and equity, particularly in the face of global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, geopolitical challenges and socio-economic inequalities,” said Roslan. He said tourism is a significant driver of economic growth, job creation, poverty alleviation and cultural exchange. “It may empower marginalised communities, promote peace and understanding as well as propel inclusive and sustainable development. “The growth of the tourism industry is vital to the economy. Promotion and marketing programmes are the main mechanisms that stimulate and enliven the tourism industry.” Uzbekistan Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change Minister Aziz Abdukhakimov said the digitalisation of tourism and setting up of funds for touristic projects were among topics discussed at the conference on Sunday. He was speaking to the media at the conference held between May 31 and June 2, with the theme “Development of the Tourism Industry in a Sustainable and Resilient Way”. He added that digitisation of tourism is important for future tourism. “We propose to establish and develop an Islamic financial fund, which will help us with finance, fund big projects, develop touristic projects and construct complex cultural heritage places like museums and galleries.” The conference called upon OIC member states to invest in digitalisation for promoting and marketing their respective destinations. They were urged to improve international visitor experience with a view to speeding up recovery efforts from the Covid-19 pandemic. █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI [emailprotected] Support for US proposal to end Gaza conflict PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia has called on all parties concerned to accept and work towards the full implementation of a recent proposal by US President Joe Biden to end Israeli atrocities in Gaza. The Foreign Ministry said in a statement the proposal is the best way forward to end the ongoing catastrophe in Gaza and for full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Palestinian territory. “Malaysia has consistently called for a permanent and effective ceasefire to bring an immediate end to the killing of Palestinians and the conflict in Gaza. “In this context, the three-phase proposal announced by President Joe Biden for a complete ceasefire, release of captives from both sides, efforts towards a permanent end to hostilities and a comprehensive reconstruction plan for Palestine is a step in the right direction.” Malaysia also urged the international community to prioritise immediate and unimpeded humanitarian assistance to Palestinians and reconstruction of Gaza. It emphasised that Malaysia’s steadfast support and full solidarity with the Palestinian people remain unwavering, including their right to self-determination and the creation of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. International media reported that Biden on May 31 had presented a three-phase deal proposed by Israel to the Palestinian group Hamas, that would end hostilities in the besieged Gaza Strip and secure the release of hostages held in the coastal enclave. Hamas reportedly said it would “respond positively to any proposal that includes a permanent ceasefire, a full withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, reconstruction efforts, the return of the displaced and the completion of a comprehensive hostage exchange deal”. – Bernama Reforms vital for financial security of retirees: PM KUALA LUMPUR: It is time for Malaysia to embrace serious reforms in its pension and retirement framework to ensure financial security and equity for all Malaysians, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said a recent survey found that 26.1% of respondents aged above 60 would continue to work until their health fails as they face challenges in achieving income security to finance their retirement needs. He added that the old-age population is more susceptible to poverty compared with the average Malaysian population, as only 29% of Malaysians have pension or pension-like income during retirement. “EPF data shows that one in four members actually exhausted their savings within five years after reaching the age for withdrawing savings. “The lump-sum nature of the EPF benefit will result in many Malaysians not being able to maintain a reasonable standard of living during retirement or to manage longevity risks,” he said when officiating at the International Social Wellbeing Conference 2024 yesterday. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said there is a need to actively seek reform in the Malaysian pension framework to ensure every generation would be able to look forward to growing old with dignity. “New solutions are needed to make sure no one is left behind and that every layer of society benefits from social protection. Expanding EPF coverage in phases so that more of the working-age population will become part of the EPF ecosystem will ensure that more Malaysians can Anwar and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan at the event in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC o‘Senior citizens more susceptible to poverty compared with average Malaysian population, as only 29% have pension or pension-like income during retirement’ accumulate adequate retirement savings for their old age.” He said it is projected that it would only take 23 years for Malaysia to make the shift from an ageing nation to an aged nation, with 14% of the population above the age of 65, Bernama reported. He added that the unity government is committed to bettering the lives of older Malaysians and building a more inclusive and just society for all, in line with the concept of Madani. “In this regard, the government plans to strengthen two pillars of social protection. “For social assistance, the government will further strengthen programmes to provide support and a safety net for Malaysians who are facing financial hardship. “To spur the labour market, the government will continue to strengthen training initiatives, unemployment assistance and other programmes to get Malaysians into jobs that will raise their standard of living,” he said.
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 3 ‘E-wallet trend may prompt reduction of physical money’ PETALING JAYA: Bank Negara Malaysia is likely to reduce the printing of physical currency in the future as more Malaysians embrace e-wallet payments, said Putra Business School Assoc Prof of Economics Dr Ida Md Yasin. Global financial technology platform Adyen reported on May 28 in its Adyen Index 2024 that Malaysians leads the world with 63% using e-wallets for transactions. It said this is the highest adoption rate globally, and with the popularity of e-commerce, 73% of Malaysians use social media platforms about six times a month just to shop. “The preference for fast and convenient payment methods among Malaysian shoppers is driving the demand for simplified in-store processes, including the use of kiosks and one-click checkouts,” the report stated. Ida said as the public finds it more convenient to make payments using e-wallets, electronic spending will increase while physical oPrinting of ringgit bills likely to ease as survey shows M’sians leading globally with 63% leaning towards electronic spending: Expert █ BYQIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [emailprotected] New road tax for electric vehicles to be 85% lower beginning 2026 PUTRAJAYA: Road tax rates for zero emission vehicles (ZEV) or electric vehicles are set based on the power of the electric motor, and will come into force on Jan 1, 2026. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the new fee, which is 85% lower than the existing rate, aims to encourage the people to switch to the use of ZEV. He said all rates for ZEV will be reviewed at least every five years to ensure effectiveness in achieving the objectives of the transition to ZEV, as well as the impact on government revenue. “The rate will increase in line with the increase in electric motor power. The increase in electric motor power will represent an increase in the purchase price, size, segment and weight of the vehicle. “The new road tax rate set only applies to ZEV in the PBEV (pure battery electric vehicle) and FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle) categories,” he said when announcing the new rate for electric vehicles (EV) yesterday. In February 2022, the Road Transport Department announced an incentive offer of full road tax exemption for EV from Jan 1, 2022 to Dec 31, 2025. Regarding the block rate setting, Loke said it is set at a motor power range of 100,000 watts. Loke said Block 1 is for ZEV that have electric motor power from 1 watt to 100,000 watts, and Block 2 is between 100,001 and 210,000 watts. He added that the minimum road tax rate for Block 1 is RM20 while the maximum rate is RM70. “For Block 3, the minimum fee rate is RM305 and the maximum rate is RM575.” Loke added that the new rate sends a signal to ZEV manufacturers to make Malaysia a vehicle production hub. – Bernama Loke showing the new road tax rates for zero emission vehicles. – BERNAMAPIC Dewan Rakyat Speaker on five-day Japan trip TOKYO: Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul began his five-day official trip to Japan on Monday by visiting two Japanese agriculture technology and research related entities. Johari and a Parliament delegation visited the National Agriculture and Food Research Organisation (Naro) at its headquarters in Tsukuba, Ibaraki, and held a meeting with Naro president Dr Kazuo Kyuma and his team. During the meeting, Johari expressed Malaysia’s desire to enhance the productivity and efficiency of the country’s agriculture through use of Japanese technology. He said Malaysia intends to learn the best practices from Japan in the field of agriculture while improving trade relations. “I am interested in Naro’s initiatives in promoting collaborative activities and sharing information to help the international community produce more food in response to potential shortages. “We hope to learn a lot from you and perhaps, when we assume the chairmanship of Asean next year, we will certainly try to encourage other Asean countries to come and learn from you so that we can benefit from your achievements,” he said during the meeting. Johari was also briefed on the development and future outlook of smart agriculture by the Institute of Agricultural Machinery, as well as the development of a new field water management system utilising ICT (information and communication technology) by the Institute for Rural Engineering (NIRE). A demonstration of a robot tractor with a remote monitoring system was also held, to demonstrate how to achieve labour savings and increase the scale of agricultural production. During the three-hour visit, the delegation was also taken to the Japan International Research Centre for Agricultural Sciences and briefed on collaborative research projects in Malaysia, including sustainable replanting of oil palm through scientific and technological innovation. Johari also discussed the potential of tapioca as an alternative food to rice, considering its nutritional value. – Bernama Special plate frames to be introduced PUTRAJAYA: The government will introduce special licence plate frames for zero emission vehicles (ZEV) or electric vehicles to distinguish them from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke. He added that ZEV manufacturers will issue and instal the special plate frames before delivering the vehicles to buyers. “We will introduce special plates, not registration numbers, to differentiate ZEV from ICE vehicles. “The ZEV manufacturers will issue these frames and we will collaborate on the materials and other details. More information will be provided later,” he said. On July 1 last year, Loke announced that the Transport Ministry plans to introduce special registration numbers for electric vehicles to distinguish them from ICE vehicles and facilitate rescue operations by the Fire and Rescue Department in case of accidents. – Bernama Tree upkeep panel to meet this month PUTRAJAYA: A special committee set up to monitor in detail the care of trees in the capital will hold its first meeting this month, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa. “We will invite the Housing and Local Government Ministry to attend,” she said at a Memorandum of Understanding and Supply Agreement of Renewable Energy event between Putrajaya Corporation and Tenaga Nasional Bhd yesterday. Zaliha said among the stakeholders in the special committee are NGOs, arborists (woody plant experts) and experts from the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia. The formation of the special committee was set up following several tree falling incidents due to heavy rain and strong winds. On May 7 a toppled tree incident claimed a man’s life and damaged 17 vehicles and part of a monorail track in Jalan Sultan Ismail. On May 13, a fallen tree in Jalan Pinang damaged a police vehicle that was escorting Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusof, while on May 25 toppled trees at several locations in Kuala Lumpur damaged vehicles and blocked roads. – Bernama currency usage declines. She added that the boost in spending will drive the economy as businesses see higher sales and revenue through the widespread adoption of e-wallets. “Despite the transition from paper to digital money, the fundamental nature of money remains unchanged as it still represents value, albeit in electronic form. “The transition to e-wallets would also improve the economy by simplifying the process of using and spending money, which again will maintain the economic momentum.” Ida said the widespread adoption of e-wallets would also indirectly stimulate the economy. “E-wallets will boost retail sales in Malaysia, as their usage is positively correlated with increased consumer spending.” However, while urban businesses are rapidly adapting to electronic payments, those in rural areas are lagging, Ida said. “Gen Z are more inclined to embrace e-wallets as they are more technologically savvy and receptive to digital innovations. “In contrast, older generations prefer using cash. This reflects their reluctance to change long-standing habits and concerns about the security of digital transactions.” Ida said e-wallet payment options can significantly enhance customer loyalty through convenience and seamless shopping, especially with features such as loyalty rewards, cashback offers and discounts. “When customers know that a particular store or seller accepts e-wallet payments, they are more likely to return there for future purchases. “This will make the purchasing process easier, more efficient and create additional value for customers through rewards and promotions while increasing sales for the merchant through repeat visits.” However, she said while the convenience of digital transactions is a major advantage, it also opens up potential vulnerabilities in terms of data fraud and the security of mobile devices. “Two-factor authentication is crucial for security. It adds an extra layer by requiring a second level of verification, like a code sent to the user’s mobile device so that a fraudulent transaction cannot be completed without this additional step. “Implementing advanced security features such as facial recognition, fingerprints or PINs will also ensure that the security of mobile payments can be greatly improved.” “Perhaps within the next five years or even sooner, we can expect to witness significant advancements in electronic payments. “The increasing adoption of e-wallets and technological innovations will likely ensure this happens,” she said.
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 4 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper Spectre of MCO restrictions still lingering for many PETALING JAYA: While the Covid-19 pandemic may have eased, many Malaysians still suffer from the effects of isolation they experienced during the movement control order (MCO). The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023 highlighted that a total of 624,094 Malaysian adults, or 1.8% of the population, grapple with communication difficulties, but only 74,891, or 12%, of them sought help. Clinical psychologist Dr Ainul Azreen Johari said individuals from lower-income backgrounds often have less access to resources that support the development of communication skills. This includes quality education and healthcare services, while the growing dependence on digital communication tools contributed to the problem. “Digital tools are useful to stay connected, but not everyone adapts well to the virtual world. Many find the lack of physical oMore than 620,000 adults grappling with social and communication difficulties, with only about 75,000 seeking help █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN [emailprotected] Kelantan drafting new syariah court administration Bill KOTA BHARU: The Kelantan government is drafting a new Syariah Court Administration Bill, which will replace the Administration of the Syariah Court Enactment (Kelantan State) 1982. State Islamic Development, Dakwah, Information and Regional Relations Committee chairman Mohd Asri Mat Daud said the draft amendment had also been presented at the Kelantan Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council meeting. He said the meeting also decided to establish a working committee to review the formulation of the draft proposals. “The proposed Bill is also more comprehensive. Therefore, drafting of the Bill is still at the stage of detailed study by the legal division of the state secretary’s office.” Mohd Asri was responding to a question from Zameri Mat Nawang (PAS-Jelawat) during the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly sitting at Kompleks Kota Darulnaim yesterday. He said the move would open up space and guarantees the implementation of justice in syariah cases through the judicial institution of the syariah court, that is comparable to the judicial institution of the civil court. Meanwhile, in reply to a question from Dr Hafidzah Mustakim (Amanah-Kota Lama) regarding coordination with the syariah judicial committee at the federal level, Mohd Asri said the state government is constantly in contact and cooperates with the government in the matter. – Bernama ‘Poverty yardstick for Peninsular may not suit Sabah’ PAPAR: The definition and scope of hardcore poverty in Sabah cannot be randomly compared with that of the Peninsular in efforts to resolve the issue, said Parti Warisan president Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal. The former chief minister asserted that measures and strategies aimed at addressing hardcore poverty in the Peninsular should not be directly applied in Sabah. Instead, they should be customised for the unique circ*mstances of the state. “We need thorough research on this matter, detailed action plans are crucial to assist this vulnerable demographic. We must avoid prematurely claiming success in eradicating hardcore poverty while many still remain deeply vulnerable at the state level,” he said after visiting Kampung Kuala Pantai Manis on Monday. While welcoming the announcement made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during his speech at the Kaamatan Festival last Friday regarding efforts to eliminate hardcore poverty in Sabah before July, Mohd Shafie stressed the necessity for comprehensive efforts due to the significant scale of the problem. He highlighted the importance of evaluating and enhancing public facilities, particularly in education and healthcare, as Sabah significantly lags behind the Peninsular in these areas. In his speech, Anwar expressed confidence, citing a reduction in the number of household heads classified as hardcore poor in Sabah from 20,000 to 9,000 as evidence of progress. Recognising the severity of hardcore poverty in Sabah in relation to other states, he emphasised the crucial need for integrated cooperation between the federal and state governments to effectively address this issue. – Bernama Almost 3,000 farmers affected by hot weather KOTA BHARU: A preliminary drought report on the crop sector by the Agriculture Department recorded that 2,972 farmers in Kelantan were affected, involving the destruction of 7,467.42ha from March to May 15. State Agriculture, Agro-food Industry and Commodities Committee chairman Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail said the department will apply for a proposed aid of more than RM5.56 million through the allocation of the Rice Crop Disaster Fund and the Agricultural Disaster Fund to ease the burden of farmers affected by crop damage. “Kelantan Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud has also approved an immediate aid allocation of RM300,000 to build tube wells, water pump aid and other needs to help irrigate affected padi fields and farmers throughout Kelantan,” he said during the state legislative assembly meeting at Kota Darulnaim Complex yesterday. Tuan Mohd Saripudin said one of the state government efforts to deal with the drought disaster in Kelantan, particularly in assisting padi farmers, was to set up a padi planting schedule based on the irrigation scheme, as well as to clean and dig canals to ensure the smooth movement of water for farming use. – Bernama Renovation handyman wins RM10.6m Toto Jackpot KUALA LUMPUR: A renovation handyman from Penang won the RM10.6 million Toto 4D Jackpot 1 last week by betting on the car registration numbers of his employers. “My bosses drive nice European cars to work, that makes all of us so envious and dream of owning and driving one too. “So, I bet on their car registration numbers 9114 and 2230 for many years and that was how I won the jackpot,” said the 60-year-old when he came to collect his winnings at STM Lottery Sdn Bhd in Kuala Lumpur. He bought a System 4 ticket, that won him RM10,627,969.15 and an additional RM672 as a System Play bonus. SHINING ATTRACTION ... A visitor browsing woks and other cooking ware at a stall along the road in Kampung Cabang Tiga in Melawi, Kelantan. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN interaction and non-verbal cues difficult to cope with and less fulfilling. “The abrupt halt to communal activities and family gatherings, which are integral to the social fabric of our country, affected many.” Corporate finance officer Mohd Ikhwan Mohd Zunaidi, 37, said he felt isolated while working in Selangor during the MCO. This led to a decline in his social and communication skills. “I struggled with my social skills after months of isolation during the MCO. Restrictions in face-to-face interactions left me lacking the confidence to communicate with others.” Kedah-born Mohd Ikhwan said the reduced interactions even took a toll on his ability to engage with his family and friends back home. “While helpful, video calls could not replace in-person conversations. As restrictions lifted and social opportunities arose, I felt anxious and uncertain, and had to rebuild the social skills I once took for granted.” Mohd Ikhwan said even now within his work environment, he finds himself avoiding social gatherings due to feeling awkward. A 28-year-old graphic designer in Subang Jaya, who asked to be known only as Elyssah, said constant criticism at her workplace left her struggling to communicate effectively. Despite initially enjoying her job and even receiving a steady commission for her designs, Elyssah said the negative atmosphere created by her coworkers made her doubt herself and finally took its toll. “I constantly faced criticism from my senior colleagues, who also complained about me to the boss. Feeling belittled and ignored, I became reluctant to speak up or share my ideas.” Elyssah said she has avoided communicating with anyone since she lost confidence in her abilities and feared further rejection if she were to express herself. Ainul Azreen said both these cases are examples of anxiety faced by those living alone, in vulnerable groups or forced isolation. “They experience mental health issues such as heightened feelings of loneliness and anxiety, which further inhibits their communication skills since they become awkward at expressing themselves.” She said mental health can affect an individual in many ways, which is why public health initiatives should focus on raising awareness about communication difficulties and the importance of seeking help. “Educational campaigns can dispel the stigma associated with these challenges and encourage more people to seek assistance.” She urged the government and private sectors to collaborate in providing affordable and accessible counselling services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. “Mental health support services and the number of speech therapies must be increased to address communication difficulties. Having the ability to express oneself without being judged is essential. “Fostering an inclusive and supportive environment can help those still suffering the effects of the MCO to overcome their communication barriers so that they can be on the path to healing.”
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 5 KUALA LUMPUR: A 17-month-old baby girl sustained facial injuries allegedly due to abuse by a babysitter at a daycare centre in Bandar Mahkota Cheras, Kajang on Saturday. Kajang police chief ACP Mohd Zaid Hassan said police received a report regarding the incident from her father. The father, 26, who works as an e-hailing driver, said when he went to pick up his daughter from the daycare centre, one of the babysitters claimed his child had been roughly handled by another babysitter during feeding, causing injury to her nose. “Due to dissatisfaction with the treatment and actions of the babysitter, the father decided to withdraw his child from the daycare centre. Upon medical examination and treatment at a hospital, a medical officer confirmed his child suffered soft tissue injury. Subsequently, the babysitter was called in to provide a statement.” Further investigations revealed the daycare centre had been running for nearly three months but allegedly did not have a valid operating licence. Mohd Zaid said the centre currently cares for nine children with three babysitters, who are also teachers. He said the case was being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a fine not exceeding RM50,000, imprisonment of a term not exceeding 20 years, or both. – Bernama Najib, Irwan CBT trial postponed to June 19 KUALA LUMPUR: The trial of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak and former treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah on six charges of criminal breach of trust (CBT) involving RM6.6 billion has been postponed to June 19. High Court Judge Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin allowed the application for postponement by lawyers Datuk K. Kumaraendran and Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, representing Mohd Irwan and Najib respectively, due to more than 100 documents not being submitted to the defence yet. DPP Muhammad Saiffudin Hashim Musaimi told the court the prosecution does not object to the application for postponement by the defence, Bernama reported. “The trial is postponed until June 19 to give an opportunity for the prosecution to examine the documents. Two weeks are sufficient for the defence to examine the documents and prepare their defence, the trial will commence on June 19,” said Muhammad Jamil. Earlier, Kumaraendran said among the documents were Cabinet meeting oHearing delayed due to more than 100 documents, including memos, emails, not submitted yet to defence team memos, emails referring to defence witness statements and recorded statements from witnesses. “We also informed the prosecution the caution statement was amended by our client during investigation. It was never served to us despite the reminders to them,” he said. Meanwhile, Muhammad Shafee also requested for the court to postpone yesterday’s trial as there were a lot more documents that had not been served by the prosecution. “We expect the prosecution will serve us (the documents). There are seven volumes of documents that need to be reviewed. “These missing documents will trigger a lot of adjournments should the trial start today. Unless we see how the prosecution navigate their case through the documents, we cannot see the light in our defence,” said Muhammad Shafee, adding that there Varsity student drowns after swim in fish pond SEGAMAT: A university student was found drowned after swimming in a fish pond at the Agrofarm Aminah Rahmat Campsite here. District police chief Supt Ahmad Zamry Marinsah said the incident occured at around 11am on Monday, adding that the student, 23, went with 16 other friends to the area to complete their digital marketing assignment on the recreational area. “All of them arrived at the campsite at 6pm on Sunday. The student, who was supposed to leave the area by 9am the next day, decided to go for a swim in the fish pond at the campsite with four other friends. “His friends later realised he had disappeared and managed to find him. They administered breathing aid but the student was confirmed dead by an assistant medical officer.” Ahmad Zamry said the body was taken to the Segamat Hospital for autopsy and police would continue their investigations. “We would like to advise the public to always be cautious of their surroundings and to reduce water activities, especially in areas that they are not familiar with.” – Bernama were also other ongoing trials involving Najib with the same defence team, namely the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case and SRC International Sdn Bhd civil suit. “For 1MDB, we are in the midst of preparing the submission right now and my entire team has been engaged and I must say we are exhausted but we are pressing on to complete the submission in the month of July. “If Yang Arif insists, we can break up the dates because they are days in between. I am sure we can locate days, otherwise this trial will only start in 2025,” said Muhammad Shafee. Muhammad Saifuddin said his team had submitted documents in four stages from 2018 to 2021. On Oct 24, 2018, Najib, 70, and Mohd Irwan, 66, pleaded not guilty to six charges of CBT of RM6.6 billion in government funds involving payments to the International Petroleum Investment Company. They were jointly accused of committing the offences at the Finance Ministry Complex in Putrajaya between Dec 21, 2016 and Dec 18, 2017. They were charged under Section 409 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same law, which provides a maximum of 20 years’ jail, whipping and a fine. 15 days set for RM500,000 bribery hearing KUALA LUMPUR: The Sessions Court has scheduled a 15-day trial beginning Sept 10 for a company director charged with offering an annual bribe of RM500,000 over 15 years to Tan Sri Annuar Musa in relation to the Kuala Lumpur Tower (KL Tower) concession acquisition. Judge Suzana Hussin confirmed the dates after DPP Mahadi Abdul Jumaat informed the court that both the prosecution and defence teams had agreed to the schedule. The dates are set for Sept 10 and 11, Oct 29 and 30, Nov 6 and 7, Dec 4 and 5, Dec 9 to 12 and Jan 7 to 9, 2025. Fifteen prosecution witnesses will testify against Hydroshoppe Sdn Bhd director Datuk Abdul Hamid Shaikh Abdul Razak Shaikh, who is represented by lawyer Weera Premananda. Abdul Hamid Shaikh, 50, is accused of offering a bribe through Datuk Tan Ser Lay, 60, as inducement for Annuar, who was then Communications and Multimedia minister, to expedite the management and administration takeover of the KL Tower concession by his company. Abdul Hamid Shaikh allegedly committed the offence at the Communications and Multimedia Ministry in Putrajaya between July and August 2022. – Bernama Ex-health minister’s case delayed after lawyer withdraws KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court yesterday postponed the hearing of a lawsuit filed by Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad against Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak regarding a post about cronyism on his Facebook page after his lawyer withdrew from representing him. Judicial Commissioner Arziah Mohamed Apandi allowed the application by lawyer Datuk S.N. Nair and fixed March 5 to 7, 2025 to hear the case. “The court also set July 10 for case management and vacated the trial dates from June 4 until 6,” she said during the proceedings, which were also attended by Najib’s lawyer Muhammad Farhan and Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah. In Jan 2022, Dzulkefly, who was the former health minister, filed a lawsuit in his personal capacity alleging Najib had uploaded a slanderous post on his Facebook page on Aug 24, 2020 on cronyism as well as an attachment of a Sinar Harian article dated Jan 28, 2019 with a picture of the plaintiff. He claimed the statement, among others, meant the plaintiff practises cronyism by offering posts and appointments to relatives without any objective evaluation and their capability for posts in government and private companies. – Bernama Najib being escorted into the court complex yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Cops quiz babysitter over injury to infant
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Box 179, Jalan Sultan, 46720 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan Attn: Subscription Email: [emailprotected] *Terms & Conditions apply Important note: SMCSB reserves the right to revise the price at any time without prior notice. Pay to Maybank ( Account number 508177700420 ) Account name ( SUN MEDIA CORPORATION SDN BHD ) Nov 8 to Nov 10 Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1 WEDNESDAY NOV 8, 2023 No. 8389 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) SCAN ME Casino chip heist: Five more identified Police have detained a total of 10 suspects, including a Chinese national, in connection with the RM4.6m theft at Genting Highlands on Oct 28. Congratulations! You are holding the first edition A new sunrise of our new 32-page paper featuring more of the great content you have loved for the past 30 years. Copies will be free until Friday and will be available via subscription and at newsstands beginning Monday for only RM1. Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE Subscribe now for Monday-Friday copies of theSun newspaper only per copy 1 year subscription at normal price RM258* (258 issues) + RM50 administration fee to get 2nd year free *Special ofier for June 2024 only 480-year-old mosque pride of village LENGGONG: The implicit meaning and elements of the Malay archipelago architecture at the “Masjid Raja” (King’s Mosque) in Kampung Chepor are unique and considered an invaluable heritage that must be preserved for future generations. Historian Lukhman Mahmud, 63, said the 484-year-old historical treasure was built with four golden cengal wood pillars that play an integral role in strengthening the overall structure. “The mosque is influenced by Malay architecture from Pattani, Sumatra, Palembang, Riau, Minangkabau, Deli and Langkap. The four pillars symbolise Islam as represented by the four ‘madhhabs’ or sects, namely Hanafi, Hanbali, Maliki and Shafi’i. “The ‘nasi lemak’ shaped dome at the top of the pillars symbolise the Prophet Muhammad. This tells us the four pillars, representing the four ‘madhhabs’, are upholding the Prophet Muhammad.” Lukhman, a former administrative officer at the KL International Airport, said the original structure of the mosque was roofed with sago palm fronds, its walls were made of woven bamboo and its upper framework was supported by several types of wood, including merbau and kemuning. He said these types of wood were also used in other structural components in the mosque, such as beams and pillars. “The selection of these types of wood is important because they do not rot easily and are resistant to termites,” he said, adding that the uniqueness of the mosque also lies in its foundation, which is made from a combination of clay and volcanic ash from the Toba eruption around 75,000 years ago. “Volcanic ash is different from regular ash as it helps harden the clay foundation. In the past, anyone visiting the mosque would bring their own woven mats to pray on. “Global Geopark Network vice-president Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Ibrahim Komoo confirmed the mosque foundation is made from Toba volcanic ash during his The mosque is 484 years old and the second oldest in Perak after the Pachat Manong Mosque in Kuala Kangsar, which was built in 1512. – BERNAMAPIC oBuilt in 1539, structure stands on foundation of clay and volcanic ash, supported by four golden cengal wood pillars visit here.” Discussing the history of the mosque construction, Lukhman said the work began in 1539 by decree of then Sultan of Perak Sultan Mudzaffar Shah I and it took three years to complete. “The decree included the construction of not only the mosque but those in the entire state, including the Hulu Perak district administered by Tun Saban and Tun Puteh, children of Melaka Bendahara Tun Perak. “The siblings chose to build the mosque in Kampung Chepor. The construction was aided by Tun Saban’s followers, who were mostly from Pattani, and villagers.” He also said the mosque could accommodate 100 individuals at a time, mainly consisting of residents from Kampung Chepor, Kampung Luat, Kampung Beng, Kampung Bukit Sapi and Kampung Labit. “Individuals who came to pray would be located in the north and east verandas, which were the main areas for them at the time.” Aside from serving as a place of prayer, Lukhman said the mosque functioned as a gathering point for the community to receive royal decrees. “This means the mosque acted as a central hub for residents to receive information from the Sultan. “It is understood that Sultan Mudzaffar frequently visited the mosque and its surrounding area to have picnics and interact with the villagers.” He also emphasised the need for the continuous preservation of the mosque and urged authorities to maintain its aesthetic values, Bernama reported. “We need those who wish to manage the mosque to have both authority and funding. “These two aspects are crucial to preserve the mosque and attract visitors. “I hope the mosque can be improved by installing basic facilities, such as toilets and lounges, and giving the surrounding landscape a fresher touch so that it can be seen as one of the main tourism products in the district.”
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 7 Modi eyes triumph as India counts epic vote NEW DELHI: Vote counting was underway in India’s election yesterday, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi all but assured a triumph for his nationalist agenda that has thrown the opposition into disarray and deepened concerns for minority rights. Early figures showed Modi on track to win another parliamentary majority after a six-week-long election that saw 642 million people vote in seven stages. Modi, 73, said at the weekend he was confident that “the people of India have voted in record numbers” to re-elect his government, a decade after he first became prime minister. With more than a quarter of votes counted by midday, election commission figures showed Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies leading in at least 281 seats, with 272 seats needed for a parliamentary majority. Modi’s opponents have struggled to counter the BJP’s well-oiled and well-funded campaign juggernaut, and have been hamstrung by what they say are criminal cases aimed at hobbling challengers. Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of the capital Delhi and a key leader in an alliance formed to compete against Modi, returned to jail on Sunday. Kejriwal, 55, was detained in March over a corruption probe, but was later released and allowed to campaign as long as he returned to custody once voting ended. BJP supporters celebrating after learning the initial results at party headquarters in New Delhi yesterday. – REUTERSPIC oBJP supporters begin celebrations Chinese personnel seized air-dropped supplies, says Philippines MANILA: The Philippine military said yesterday that personnel on Chinese boats illegally “seized” food and medicine air-dropped to a Filipino outpost in the South China Sea. The alleged incident happened on May 19 at Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, where Filipino troops are garrisoned on a grounded navy vessel to assert Manila’s claims to the waters. Beijing claims almost the entire South China Sea and there has been a series of confrontations involving Chinese and Philippine vessels near contested reefs, often during Philippine resupply missions to Second Thomas Shoal. The Philippine military accused China of “aggressive and unprovoked interference” when two Chinese rigidhulled inflatable boats allegedly came within 10m of the Sierra Madre vessel and personnel onboard seized an airdropped package meant for Filipino troops. It was the first time supplies had been seized, the military said. “This action of getting or confiscating our supplies is illegal,” said military chief General Romeo Brawner. “You’re not supposed to confiscate the supplies of another country, even in war.” Chinese personnel on board the boats later dumped the items in the water, said Commodore Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea. It was not clear if they belonged to the Chinese coast guard or navy. The Filipino troops were able to retrieve most of the items that were airdropped that day, the military said. The reef is about 200km from the western Philippine island of Palawan, and more than 1,000km from China’s nearest major landmass, Hainan island. Philippine resupply missions were usually by sea, but Brawner said last month they did an airdrop to avoid “resistance” and “harassment”. Brawner denied reports that Filipino troops on board the Sierra Madre had pointed their weapons at the Chinese boats. The Chinese embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China brushes off rival claims to the South China Sea from other countries, including the Philippines, and ignores an international ruling that its claims have no legal basis. Beijing deploys coast guard and other boats to patrol the waters and has turned several reefs into artificial islands that it has militarised. – AFP US Pentagon chief visits Cambodia to reset ties PHNOM PENH: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin visited Cambodia yesterday in an effort to reset ties with the staunch China ally. Washington’s relationship with the Southeast Asian nation has been deteriorating for years, with China pouring in billions of dollars in infrastructure investments under Cambodia’s former leader Hun Sen. The United States has voiced concerns over a key Cambodian naval base that is being upgraded by Beijing, which it says could be used to boost the Asian giant’s influence in the Gulf of Thailand. En route from the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Austin landed in Phnom Penh to “explore opportunities to deepen our bilateral defence relationship”, he wrote on X. He first met Hun Sen, who stepped down in August after a nearly fourdecade rule over Cambodia, and is also meeting Prime Minister Hun Manet, who took over from his father. Cambodian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Chum Sounry said last week that Austin’s visit would be “another good chance to advance ties and relations of the two countries”. Both Austin and Hun Manet graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point – Austin in 1975 and Hun Manet in 1999. Carl Thayer, emeritus professor of politics at Australia’s University of New South Wales, said Austin’s visit “signifies that the two sides are willing to jettison some of their rigid policies restricting defence cooperation and engage in renewed dialogue to seek common ground”. Austin’s visit comes just days after Cambodia and China wrapped up their largest annual military Golden Dragon exercises, involving several Chinese warships and hundreds of military personnel. Cambodia scrapped a similar joint exercise with US forces in 2017. – AFP B R I E F SSOUTH KOREA GETS TOUGH WITH NORTH SEOUL: South Korea’s military yesterday said it would resume all military activities along the demarcation line separating the two Koreas and the North West Islands after suspending an inter-Korean military agreement. The suspension of the military agreement with the North, which President Yoon Suk Yeol approved earlier yesterday, is in response to North Korea’s decision to send hundreds of balloons carrying trash over the border. Under the pact, both countries agreed to “completely cease all hostile acts against each other” that are the source of military tension and conflict, through measures such as the two sides ending military drills near the border. – Reuters ERUPTION TRIGGERS EVACUATION ORDER MANILA: Philippine authorities ordered the evacuation of residents living near a volcano in central Philippines yesterday following an eruption that sent a 5km high ash cloud into the sky. Government officials warned of the possibility of further eruptions of Kanlaon volcano, hazardous ash fall and sulphuric odour. They also warned that rivers downstream from the volcano were at risk of flash floods, mudflows and other hazards. “Go down to your evacuation centres, be vigilant, and store water and food,” said Jose Chubasco Cardenas, mayor of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental province, in issuing the evacuation order via Facebook. – Reuters MOUNT IBU SPEWS CLOUDS OF ASH JAKARTA: Mount Ibu volcano erupted yesterday, spewing thick columns of grey ash 5km into the sky, the volcanology agency said, but there were no reports of evacuations. The volcano on the eastern island of Halmahera erupted for about two minutes, said Heruningtyas Desi Purnamasari, an official of the PVMB agency, with all activities barred within 7km of the crater. “The volcano is active because there is an intense magma movement,” he said, adding that its alert status was at the highest level, where it has been since May 16. Clouds of grey ash billowed into the sky from the crater in video images provided by the agency following a smaller eruption on Monday. – Reuters Kejriwal vowed to continue “fighting” from behind bars. The polls were staggering in their size and logistical complexity, with voters casting their ballots in megacities New Delhi and Mumbai, as well as in sparsely populated forest areas and in the high-altitude territory of Kashmir. Votes were cast on electronic voting machines, so the tally will be rapid. Counting began in the morning at key tally centres in each state, with the data fed into computers. “People should know about the strength of Indian democracy,” said chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar on Monday, vowing there was a “robust counting process in place”. India’s major TV networks had reporters outside each counting centre, competing to flash results for each of the 543 elected seats. In past years, key trends have been clear by mid-afternoon with losers conceding defeat, even though full and final results may only come late at night. Figures so far showed the BJP with a vote share two points higher than the party’s last victory in 2019, but the party was forecast to win fewer seats. Election chief Kumar on Monday proclaimed the 642 million votes cast a “world record”. But based on the commission’s figure of an electorate of 968 million, turnout came to 66.3%, down roughly one percentage point from 67.4% in the last polls in 2019. Final voter data is yet to be released as repolling took place in two stations in West Bengal state on Monday. Analysts have partly blamed the lower turnout on a searing heatwave across northern India. – AFP
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 8 Probe takes off from Moon with samples BEIJING: A probe carrying samples from the far side of the Moon started its journey back to Earth yesterday, China’s space agency said – a world first and a major achievement for Beijing’s space programme. The ascender module of the Chang’e-6 probe “lifted off from lunar surface” and entered a preset orbit around the Moon, the China National Space Administration (CNSA) said. It was the first craft to successfully take off from the satellite’s far side, with news agency Xinhua describing the launch as “an unprecedented feat in lunar exploration”. Analysis of the samples it is bringing back will allow scientists “to deepen research on the formation and evolutionary history of the Moon”, said mission spokesman Ge Ping. It will also offer insights into “the origin of the solar system ... laying an improved foundation for later exploration missions”, he said. The Chang’e-6 module touched down on Sunday in the Moon’s immense South PoleAitken Basin, one of the largest known impact craters in the solar system. The probe’s technically complex 53-day mission began on May 3. After it successfully gathered its samples, a Chinese national flag carried by the lander was unfurled for the first time on the far side of the Moon. Scientists say the Moon’s dark side – so-called because it is invisible from Earth, not because it never catches the sun’s rays – holds great promise for research because its craters are less covered by ancient lava flows than the near side. Material collected from the far side may better shed light on how the Moon formed. Plans for China’s “space dream” have been put into overdrive under President Xi Jinping. Beijing has poured huge resources into its space programme over the past decade, targeting a string of ambitious undertakings in an effort to close the gap with the two traditional space powers – the United States and Russia. It has notched several notable achievements, including building a space station called Tiangong, or “heavenly palace”. – AFP B R I E F SHUNTER BIDEN ON TRIAL OVER GUN CHARGES WILMINGTON: Hunter Biden went on trial on Monday in a historic first prosecution of a sitting president’s child – and potential threat to his father’s reelection. The only surviving son of President Biden, Hunter Biden is charged with lying about his illegal drug use when buying a handgun in 2018, a felony. The 54-year-old arrived in court, accompanied by family members, including First Lady Jill Biden. Jury selection was completed during the day, allowing for opening arguments yesterday. The lawyer and lobbyist-turned-artist is charged with falsely stating when buying a .38 caliber Colt Cobra revolver in 2018 that he was not using drugs illegally. He is also charged with illegal possession of the firearm. He had earlier reached a plea deal but this collapsed. – AFP AUSTRALIA TO RECRUIT NON-CITIZENS FOR MILITARY SYDNEY: Australia with a population of just 26 million will allow non-citizens to join its armed forces, the government said yesterday, as it struggles to meet recruitment targets. Defence Minister Richard Marles said that from July, looser eligibility criteria would allow “permanent residents who have been living in Australia for 12 months” to serve. Citizens from Britain, Canada, New Zealand and the United States are favoured. Canberra has surged defence spending in recent years, buying fleets of submarines, jets and scores of fighting vehicles to meet mounting regional tensions. But it has struggled to find enough pilots, mariners and troops to operate and maintain them. – AFP Fauci denies suppressing lab leak theory WASHINGTON: Former top US infectious disease expert Dr Anthony Fauci strongly denied suppressing the theory that Covid-19 originated from a lab leak in China, telling lawmakers he never influenced research on the origins of the virus. In his first time addressing the allegations publicly since a 14-hour hearing held behind closed doors in January, Fauci also reiterated that he believes the most likely origin of the pandemic was animal-to-human transmission. “I’ve also been very, very clear, and said multiple times, that I don’t think the concept of there being a lab (leak) is inherently a conspiracy theory,” he said. “What is conspiracy is the kind of distortions of that particular subject, like it was a lab leak, and I was parachuted into the CIA like Jason Bourne and told the CIA that they should really not be talking about a lab leak,” he told a US House of Representatives panel. Fauci, who retired in December 2022 after 54 years at the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) including 38 serving as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), was testifying before the House Oversight and Accountability Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. The committee, set up to discover the origins of the virus, has uncovered emails showing top NIH officials trying to hide public records by evading Freedom of Information Act requests. The private emails suggest some officials, including a long-time Fauci adviser and aide, deleted correspondence and used private emails to get around public record laws. Fauci downplayed how closely he worked with the adviser, David Morens, saying he was unsure if Morens even reported to him directly and that their offices were in different buildings. He denied ever using a private email address to discuss government business. Morens had told the subcommittee he may have sent emails discussing government business to Fauci’s personal email address. Fauci said Morens had repeatedly violated NIAID policy and denied ever seeking to avoid a FOIA request. He also described harassment and death threats he and his family have received after being vilified by many Republican lawmakers over his pandemic stances and championing of vaccines, as well as accusations, without evidence, of being involved in a massive cover up related to the global health crisis. – Reuters Security tight in China on Tiananmen anniversary BEIJING: Security was tight and access restricted to Beijing’s Tiananmen Square yesterday, the 35th anniversary of the crackdown, while Hong Kong also increased policing as activists in Taiwan and elsewhere prepared to mark the date with vigils. Chinese tanks rolled into the square before dawn on June 4, 1989, to end weeks of prodemocracy demonstrations by students and workers. Television news images of a lone man in a white shirt standing in front of a column of tanks spread around the world and became the iconic image of the demonstrations. Decades after the military crackdown, rights activists say the demonstrators’ original goals including a free press and freedom of speech remain distant, and June 4 is still a taboo topic in China. The ruling Communist Party has never released a death toll, though rights groups and witnesses say the figure could run into the thousands. Hong Kong police detaining performance artiste Sanmu Chen on Monday. He was later released. – REUTERSPIC oActivists elsewhere mark date with vigils Taiwan’s president Lai Ching-te said in a statement yesterday that “the memory of June 4 will not disappear in the torrent of history”. Lai said Taiwan would “respond to authoritarianism with freedom”. Taiwan is the only part of the Chinesespeaking world where June 4 can be remembered openly, with a commemoration event planned in Taipei. Others are planned in countries such as Britain, Canada and the United States. In Beijing, an official website for the Tiananmen Tower overlooking the square, posted a notice saying it would be closed yesterday. Time slots for visits to Tiananmen Square also weren’t available for June 4 on its official WeChat mini-app. Chang’an Avenue, the road lining the square, was closed to pedestrians and cyclists on Monday evening. Small groups of “stability maintenance” volunteers – retirees with red armbands – have been keeping watch at neighbourhoods in central Beijing. Guards have also been stationed on pedestrian bridges. On Chinese social media platforms including WeChat and Douyin, users were unable to change their profile photos, according to online posts and Reuters tests. In the past, some users have changed their profile names and photos to include symbolic images such as candles around June 4. “Thirty-five years have passed, and the authorities remain silent. All that can be seen on the internet is ‘A Concise History of the Communist Party of China’, which says that a tragic incident was caused by the student movement in 1989,” wrote the Tiananmen Mothers, a group of over 100 mostly Chinabased survivors and families of the victims of the Tiananmen crackdown. “We cannot accept or tolerate such statements that ignore the facts.” In Hong Kong, police officers tightened security around Victoria Park, where large June 4 candlelight vigils had earlier been held annually before tougher new national security laws came into force in recent years. Performance artist Sanmu Chen was taken away on Monday night by police as he attempted a mime performance near a police van. Chen was later released. Last Tuesday, Hong Kong police arrested six people for sedition under a new national security law enacted this year, stemming from what media said were online posts linked to June 4. Two more have been arrested since. – Reuters
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 9 Palestinian State seeks to join South Africa case THE HAGUE: Palestinian authorities are seeking to join South Africa before the UN’s top court in a case in which Pretoria has accused Israel of “genocide” in Gaza, court documents showed on Monday. South Africa brought the case before the International Court of Justice last year, alleging that Israel’s Gaza offensive breached the 1948 UN Genocide Convention – a charge Israel strongly denies. So far, the Palestinians have only sent highranking representatives to follow the hearings in The Hague. But on Friday they asked the judges for permission to join South Africa’s suit, saying it had a special “interest of a legal nature which may be affected by the decision in the case”. “On May 31, the State of Palestine filed in the Registry of the Court an application for permission to intervene and a declaration of intervention,” the ICJ said in a statement. Set up after World War II, the Hague-based ICJ rules in disputes between states. The Palestinians gained non-member UN observer status in 2012. In their application, Palestinian authorities also pointed out they had signed the Genocide Convention in 2014. The ICJ on Friday ordered Israel to ensure “unimpeded access” to UN-mandated investigators to look into allegations of genocide. In a ruling on Jan 26, the ICJ also ordered Israel to do everything it could to prevent acts of genocide during its military operation in Gaza. But South Africa has since returned several times to the ICJ arguing that the dire humanitarian situation in the territory compels the court to issue further fresh emergency measures. On May 24, the court ordered Israel to “immediately” halt its military offensive in the city of Rafah and keep open the key border crossing there for “unhindered” humanitarian aid. It also called for the “unconditional” release of hostages taken by Hamas during its Oct 7 assault. ICJ rulings are legally binding but the court has no concrete means to enforce them. Judges will now ponder the request. – AFP B R I E F S70 PROTESTERS HELD AT CONSULATE SAN FRANCISCO: Police arrested 70 proPalestinian demonstrators on trespassing charges on Monday after they entered the lobby of the building housing the Israeli consulate and refused to leave. “Officers developed probable cause to arrest 70 suspects who refused to vacate the building,” police said. No injuries were reported. Police led protesters out of the building and loaded them into vehicles, their hands bound by zip ties. Protesters, who were voicing opposition to Israel’s incursion into Gaza, had said they planned to stay until forcibly removed. A group called the International Jewish Anti-Zionist Network said on Instagram that 100 people had participated in the protest. The network posted images of banners it used such as, “Committing a genocide makes Jews less safe; Not in my name!” – Reuters U.S. BARS USE OF LONG-RANGE WEAPONS WITHIN RUSSIA WASHINGTON: The United States does not support long-range capabilities being used within Russia, Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh said on Monday. “We don’t support long-range strike capabilities into Russia. When it comes to that cross-border region, that is some of the focus of the policy change,” she said. Her remarks came after US President Joe Biden last week granted Ukraine secret approval to use USsupplied weapons to strike inside of Russia, but only near the northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, where Russian forces entered early May and have since advanced. She said we do not support long-range deep strikes within Russia. – Bernama Doubts grow over Gaza truce plan RAFAH: Israel yesterday mourned four captives reported dead in Gaza by the army amid growing doubts and international pressure over a plan for a ceasefire and hostage release deal outlined by US President Joe Biden. In the besieged Palestinian territory, Israeli strikes continued early yesterday, particularly in Bureij in central Gaza where hospital sources reported several deaths. In northern Israel, firefighters and troops were battling forest blazes after rocket fire from neighbouring Lebanon. Israel’s military on Monday announced the deaths in Gaza of four hostages seized during the Oct 7 attack on Israel, naming them as Chaim Perry, Yoram Metzger, Amiram Cooper and Nadav Popplewell. Their bodies were still in the hands of Hamas, it added. Cooper, 84, Metzger, 80, and Perry, 80, were abducted from the Nir Oz kibbutz while oIsrael mourns deaths of four hostages Israeli-British citizen Popplewell, 51, was kidnapped from the Nirim kibbutz. British Foreign Minister David Cameron said he was “greatly saddened to hear about the death” of Popplewell, adding: “We reiterate our demand for Hamas to send all hostages home.” “They should have returned alive to their country and their families,” the Hostages Families Forum said. Netanyahu, a hawkish veteran leading a fragile hard-right coalition government, is under intense domestic pressure. Relatives and supporters of hostages have staged mass protests demanding a truce deal – but his far-right coalition allies are threatening to bring down the government if he agrees to that. Biden on Friday presented what he labelled an Israeli three-phase plan that would end the bloody conflict, free all hostages and lead to the reconstruction of the devastated Palestinian territory without Hamas in power. However, Netanyahu’s office stressed that the war would continue until all of Israel’s “goals are achieved”, including the destruction of Hamas’ military capabilities. UN backing sought for resolution NEW YORK: The United States said on Monday it wants the UN Security Council to adopt a resolution backing the proposal outlined by President Joe Biden to end fighting between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. It circulated a one-page draft text to the 15- member council. A resolution needs at least nine votes in favour and no vetoes by the US, France, Britain, China or Russia to pass. The draft calls on Hamas to accept the deal and “fully and implement its terms without delay and without condition”. It also “stresses the importance of the parties adhering to the terms of the deal once agreed, with the aim of bringing about a permanent cessation of hostilities”. The US proposal comes a week after Algeria proposed a draft Security Council resolution demanding a Gaza ceasefire, release of all hostages held by Hamas and essentially ordering Israel to “immediately halt its military offensive” in Rafah. Biden on Friday laid out what he described as a three-phase Israeli proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza in return for the release of Israeli hostages, saying “it’s time for this war to end” and winning a positive initial reaction from Hamas. “Numerous leaders and governments, including in the region, have endorsed this plan and we call on the Security Council to join them in calling for implementation of this deal,” said US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield in a statement. She urged council members to adopt the resolution. “We must speak with one voice in support of this deal,” she said. Israel believes that more than a third of the remaining Gaza hostages are dead, a government tally showed yesterday. Of about 250 people dragged into the Gaza Strip by gunmen during the Oct 7 cross-border rampage that sparked the war, scores were freed in a November truce, while others have been recovered – dead or alive – by Israeli troops. The government tally said 120 remain in captivity, 43 of whom have been declared dead in absentia by Israeli officials based on various sources of information, including intelligence tip-offs, CCTV or bystander videos and forensic analysis. Hamas has said Israeli air strikes caused many of the hostage deaths. Israel has not ruled that out in all cases, but said that some recovered hostage bodies showed signs of execution. – Reuters Smoke and flames rise during an Israeli air strike in central Gaza Strip on Monday. – REUTERSPIC The G7 group of countries said in a statement its leaders “fully endorse” the deal pushed by Biden, and called on Hamas to accept it. Hamas on Friday said it viewed Biden’s outline “positively”, but has since made no official comment on stalled negotiations, while mediators Qatar, Egypt and the United States have not announced any new talks. Foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and Egypt issued a statement on Monday backing the latest diplomatic effort. UN Middle East envoy Tor Wennesland yesterday urged all parties to reach an agreement after he visited Gaza and “witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the hostilities. The scenes of destruction and suffering of people are heart-wrenching”. “There is a serious proposal on the table and I urge all parties to reach an agreement immediately to achieve a ceasefire and return the hostages. There is no alternative and any delay, every day simply costs more lives,” he posted on X. Israeli government spokesman David Mencer earlier quoted Netanyahu as saying that the outline Biden presented was only “partial”, and that under the plan fighting would only stop temporarily “for the purpose of returning the hostages”. The fighting showed no sign of easing, with the war that has devastated the coastal territory of 2.4 million people soon to enter its ninth month. On Monday, Israel’s military said its forces had struck “over 50 targets” over the past day, and Gaza hospitals reported at least 19 fatalities in overnight strikes. – AFP
10 WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Protecting parents in cyberspace WHETHER it is restarting the router to get their WiFi to connect or closing 20 open browser tabs to speed up their phones, children have long been performing simple tech jobs for their parents and caregivers. According to Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority, smartphone ownership in seniors has ballooned to 89% in 2022, with 78% turning to online payments for day-today transactions. As technology rapidly progresses, sometimes digital safety goes beyond the simple. Embracing technology is one thing but staying digitally safe is another. Bad actors are enjoying the increased opportunities to hack, phish and scam seniors who may be relaxed in their online safety practices. Bad online habits increase risks According to a survey conducted in 2020 by the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore, seniors exhibited lower levels of awareness and implementation of protective measures against scams. CSA’s findings were backed up by Keeper Security’s 2022 Password Practices Report, where 34% of respondents aged 65 and above reported not using a passcode to lock and unlock their phones. Without the simplest security procedures such as a passcode to lock their phones, seniors are likely to lack more robust security measures, including strong and unique passwords for every account and the activation of Two-Factor Authentication – increasing the risk of bad threat actors attacking this demographic. These findings were also supported by a significant surge in financial losses among seniors in Singapore, rising from S$4,700 (RM16,338) in 2017 to S$88,000 in 2018. Earlier in 2024, an elderly man was targeted thrice by scammers, where he almost lost a total of S$3.7 million. Caring for another’s digital security is no easy task and monitoring every click is simply not possible. A complex problem calls for a simple solution From impersonating government officials to unauthorised third-party malware infiltrations, it is difficult for anyone to stay up-to-date on the latest evolving methods and attack vectors cyber scammers are using to worm their way into our lives. Despite people of all ages falling prey to scammers and their schemes, senior victims tend to lose more money to digital fraud. Before spending a weekend explaining the dangers of poor digital habits with your parents, start by exploring one specific habit that increases online vulnerability – a wellguarded password – a step forward towards improving cybersecurity. Protective power of well-guarded passwords Keeper Security’s 2022 US Password Practices Report revealed that almost half of the respondents had been hacked at least once. The report also showed over half of respondents have overwhelmingly negligent attitudes toward password protection, in which passwords are being shared with spouses, written down on paper and forgotten over 40 times per year, all increasing the risk of a security breach. On average, those ages 65 and above forget their password 63 times a year, compared with respondents aged 18 to 24, who forget theirs 50 times a year. Why is that a problem? How can something as small as forgetting the name of a childhood pet leave the elderly population vulnerable to such huge losses? This phenomenon is called password fatigue. Essentially, the more we have to change our passwords, the more likely we are to choose passwords that are easy to remember or reuse from another platform. In fact, 56% of respondents admitted to using the same password across different sites or applications, leaving scammers ample opportunities to exploit these weaker passwords and gain access to sensitive personal information. While just under a quarter (24%) of 18 to 24-year-olds keep track of their passwords by physically writing them down, over half (53%) of respondents aged 65 and above rely on this old-school method of password protection. Additionally, online scamming can begin with real-world opportunities. It is only a matter of time until someone with questionable intentions takes advantage of those passwords left right out in the open. Keeping passwords safe, all in one place A digital password manager is essentially a logbook that lives online. With the aid of just a single master password, users can easily access the passwords to all of their various accounts. To aid with curating strong passwords, some of these managers come with password protectors that automatically assess password strength. The best ones also generate strong, unique passwords for every account. With the help of a password manager, your parents will not just benefit from better passwords but also will not have to worry about remembering them. Many password managers offer a safe way to auto-fill user logins as well as have the ability to add credit and debit cards for faster and more secure online shopping checkouts. The “custom fields” option is also a huge help when it comes to remembering key information: it allows users to securely save important information, including a driver’s licence or passport, sensitive files, documents and even photos and videos. In using a trusted password manager, all credentials, secrets and other customer data are only accessible by the end user. All encryption and decryption are done on the fly on your parents’ device, and the data is encrypted in transit and at rest on the manager’s infrastructure. Remember, a world-class password manager will make it easier to protect and secure your loved ones online – not more complicated. The writer is the CEO and co-founder of Keeper Security, a cybersecurity platform that provides advanced identity and access management solutions to organisations globally. “Without the simplest security procedures such as a passcode to lock their phones, seniors are likely to lack more robust security measures, increasing the risk of bad threat actors attacking this demographic. Despite people of all ages falling prey to scammers and their schemes, senior victims tend to lose more money to digital fraud. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Darren Guccione
11 WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 Khu is a wheelchair user with impressive academic credentials who faced discriminatory hiring practices, reflecting a broader issue beyond employment. – MASRY CHE ANI/SUNPIC Urgent call for improved response to electricity outages I AM writing to express my utter dismay and frustration regarding the sudden electricity cut that occurred recently in Subang Jaya, affecting the entire street (or possibly the whole area). The timing of this outage, occurring around 10.30am on a Sunday morning when families are engaged in household chores and preparing meals, could not have been more inconvenient. Upon discovering the outage, I immediately contacted the Tenaga National Berhad (TNB) hotline at 15454, hoping for a swift resolution to the issue. While the customer service representative I spoke with was reasonably courteous, her nonchalant attitude towards the urgency of the situation was alarming. Despite my pleas for expedited assistance, she callously reiterated that restoration for minor work would take between two and four hours. It is truly shocking that in this day and age, where almost every aspect of our daily lives relies heavily on electricity, we are still plagued by frequent and prolonged electrical outages. Such disruptions not only inconvenience households but also pose significant risks, especially during extreme weather conditions. Given the recent sweltering heat, the interior of my home quickly transformed into an unbearable oven. After enduring 30 minutes indoors, struggling to breathe amid stifling temperatures, I was forced to seek refuge in my garden. The distressing aspect of this ordeal was not solely confined to my discomfort. From neighbouring homes, I could hear the cries of distressed infants and the complaints of overheated children. It is unconscionable that vulnerable members of our community, including the elderly and those with medical conditions, were subjected to such intolerable conditions due to the inefficacy or perhaps negligence of the electricity provider. In light of this incident, I implore TNB to reassess and improve its management of restoration and customer services under such circ*mstances. Firstly, there needs to be a greater sense of urgency and empathy displayed by customer service representatives when addressing reports of electrical outages. Merely repeating standard restoration times without considering the severity of the situation is unacceptable. Furthermore, TNB should invest in proactive measures to prevent such outages from occurring in the first place. Regular maintenance and upgrades to the electrical infrastructure are essential to minimise disruptions to service. Additionally, transparent communication regarding the cause of outages and estimated restoration times would enable affected residents to make informed decisions and better cope with the situation. This latest incident in Subang Jaya serves as a stark reminder of the inadequacies within our electrical infrastructure and customer service protocols. It is imperative that TNB takes immediate action to address these shortcomings and ensure the reliable delivery of electricity to the communities they serve. Prof Said Bani C.M. Din Excessive punishment of pupils should not be condoned OVER the years, we have heard of cases where certain members of the teaching profession involved in discipline have overstepped boundaries by imposing excessive punishment on students to the detriment of their health. Therefore, it is encouraging to see Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek taking a tough stand in the case of a teacher who allegedly punished a Year Five pupil by forcing him to stand for three hours in the hot sun, resulting in him having a heatstroke. We should have zero tolerance for such behaviour by anyone. While full investigations are ongoing, it is incumbent on the Education Ministry to implement a stringent code of conduct that explicitly prohibits any form of excessive punishment of students, which can have undesirable consequences, more so when it involves sensitive issues related to race or religion. This code should be clearly communicated to all teachers and enforced rigorously. As part of their training, teachers must be instilled with awareness programmes on issues of diversity, multiculturalism, racial and religious sensitivity. These programmes should focus on promoting understanding, empathy and mutual respect as well as unity of all races, cultures and all strata of society. Additionally, the ministry can establish an anonymous reporting mechanism for students, parents and teachers to report instances of misconduct by certain teachers affecting the safety of students. This will encourage transparency and accountability. Swift disciplinary action must be taken against teachers found guilty of this misconduct. Sometimes, it may be necessary to provide counselling and support services for teachers who need such support. We should also review and revise the curriculum to ensure that it reflects the diversity of our society and promotes values of equality, respect and understanding across different racial and cultural backgrounds. By implementing these measures, the Education Ministry will be credited with creating a more inclusive and equitable education system that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of race or ethnicity. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Chairman Alliance for a Safe Community Redefining disability rights I MAGINE a world where everyday tasks feel like climbing a mountain. For many Malaysians with disabilities, this is not just a thought experiment – it is daily life. They face not just physical barriers but also the daunting walls of discrimination and prejudice. Every day, the world tells them it was not designed with them in mind. However, recent developments signal a beacon of hope. The government’s announcement to review the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008 hints at a promising shift towards inclusivity. It is spearheaded by the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities. The drive to strengthen employment rights and create equal opportunities for people with disabilities is not just commendable, it is crucial. It represents a broader commitment to enhancing the socioeconomic inclusion of the disabled community, with a promise of better days. While the Act sets a promising groundwork for safeguarding disability rights, its effectiveness is undercut by the absence of robust enforcement mechanisms. What is needed is a steadfast commitment to rigorous policy implementation, transforming promises into tangible protections. Without stringent enforcement, the lofty goals of the legislation may remain elusive, leaving individuals with disabilities susceptible to discrimination and neglect. In the sphere of employment, the consequences of lax policy implementation are especially pronounced for individuals with disabilities. Despite the hopeful framework in the current legislation, the practical landscape often exposes a jarring disparity between rhetoric and action. Take the case of Khu Li Huang, a wheelchair user with impressive academic credentials who faced discriminatory hiring practices. Sadly, her story is not unique, reflecting a broader issue beyond employment. The stereotypes and prejudices she battles are entrenched, shaping the lives of many with disabilities in our nation. This incident is a reminder that public and private sectors must prioritise inclusivity and accessibility. This entails embracing inclusive hiring practices, ensuring physical accessibility in workplaces and offering vital support to enable employees with disabilities to thrive in their positions. The civil service still falls short of fulfilling its commitment to allocate 1% of its jobs to individuals with disabilities. To remedy this, the government can bolster recruitment initiatives tailored to individuals with disabilities, offer essential training and support for their seamless integration into the workforce and cultivate a culture of inclusivity across agencies. Equally crucial is the private sector’s role in implementing policies that champion diversity and support individuals with disabilities, encompassing accessible hiring practices and nurturing work environments. Additionally, the glaring lack of adequate access to quality education and vocational training serves as a catalyst, intensifying the gaping chasm of inequality. This insufficiency impedes the aspirations of individuals with disabilities, hindering their ability to attain the requisite skills and qualifications indispensable for navigating the fiercely competitive job arena. Yet, this commitment transcends the workplace, emphasising the necessity for tailored policies across various facets of life to ensure societal inclusion. Consider schools in developed nations where infrastructure, such as ramps and lifts, are commonplace to accommodate diverse needs. This dedication also resonates in public transportation and housing sectors, where features like wheelchair ramps on buses and disabled-friendly apartments are indispensable. Such policies foster individual independence and contribute to a more inclusive societal fabric. Their importance underscores the pressing need for broader adoption of similar infrastructure and regulations. Our attention was also recently drawn to a special needs centre struggling financially to provide essential services such as speech therapy and physiotherapy. This centre, reliant on public donations and reeling from the impacts of Covid19, highlights the broader challenges of accessibility and support within our community. Disability care centres face a multitude of challenges beyond just financial strain. Scarce resources, including trained staff, specialised equipment and therapeutic resources, hinder their ability to provide essential services to individuals with disabilities. Operating with minimal staff and outdated facilities, these centres grapple with meeting the complex and diverse needs of those under their care. To surmount these challenges, we must rally concerted efforts to tackle systemic issues, bolster regulatory frameworks and foster stakeholder collaboration. By prioritising capacity-building initiatives and forging partnerships across sectors, we can empower disability care centres to offer comprehensive, top-tier services that champion the well-being and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. However, the fundamental transformation begins with education. Teaching children from a young age about diversity and inclusion sets the stage for a future where diversity is seen as a strength, not a hindrance. As we look to the future, we must remember that real progress is not just about policy updates or legislative changes. It is measured by our everyday actions to support and uplift those around us. We make strides towards truly inclusive growth by fostering a society that values every individual’s contribution. Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran is the chairperson of the RYTHM Foundation, which established the Taarana School for children with special educational needs. Comments: [emailprotected] COMMENT by Datin Sri Umayal Eswaran LETTERS [emailprotected]
ESG ESG WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 12 Nestle reaches milestone in reforestation efforts PETALING JAYA: Nestle Malaysia’s forestry initiatives have achieved a significant milestone, having planted 2.8 million trees through both the completed Project RiLeaf and the ongoing Project RELeaf. In just Project RELeaf, 1.8 million trees have been planted. These accomplishments are in line with the company’s objective of planting four million trees across Malaysia by 2025, which is expected to absorb 700,000 tonnes of CO2. To further intensify these efforts, Nestle continued with its annual Nationwide Tree Planting event. In five different locations across the country – Kuala Selangor Nature Park, SDP North Labis, Johor, SDP Tiger Estate Tawau, Sabah, TDM Plantation, Terengganu, and Perlis – more than 400 committed Nestle Cares volunteers and representatives from partners Sime Darby Plantation and TDM Plantation worked together to plant 5,000 trees. Nestle (Malaysia) Bhd CEO Juan Aranols said: “Reflecting on our journey, we are proud of the progress we have made in our reforestation efforts. The cumulated planting of 2.8 million trees marks a significant milestone in our ESG journey, and our work today reflects our continued dedication to further our Forest Positive strategy in safeguarding Malaysia’s precious ecosystems. “We are now setting our sights on the planting of the remaining 1.2 million trees through Project RELeaf by the first half of 2025, contributing to our overarching target of four million trees. “We would also like to express our gratitude to our esteemed partners Sime Darby Plantation, TDM Plantation and the Malaysian Nature Society for their unwavering support in our reforestation initiative,” he said. Nestle Malaysia’s Project RELeaf name is guided by the 3 “Rs” – REforest, REstore and REspect. Through this project, the company aims to reforest wildlife corridors to connect fragmented forests to mitigate human-animal conflict and protect wildlife habitat, restore riparian buffer zones to minimise o2.8 million trees replanted through two projects water contamination due to soil sediments and agricultural run-offs, and importantly, respect and support the positive transformation of local communities. Hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship, Project RELeaf also supports the livelihoods of local farmers and Orang Asli communities, particularly women, in both Kinabatangan, Sabah and throughout Peninsular Malaysia. This is achieved by providing training aimed at capacity building while enhancing their awareness of the importance of environmental conservation. Among others, this includes activities such as planting and nurturing seedlings, overseeing their transfer to planting sites and tending to the planted trees. To date, Nestle Malaysia has engaged more than 90 local communities in seedling production and more than 120 local communities in tree planting. Alongside engaging local communities, this time around the nationwide tree planting event also served as a training ground, taking a hands-on approach to equip employees with the necessary knowledge about reforestation and planting methods. The objective is not only to enhance their understanding of reforestation but also to foster a sustainability mindset within the organisation. “We at Nestle Malaysia, truly appreciate the importance of reforestation and the respect for nature. It is our hope that by participating in this tree-planting event, all of us will inspire others to get involved in environmental stewardship. By fostering a culture of sustainability, we aim to create a lasting positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve,” Aranols said. Karbon Hero tackles plastic pollution KUALA LUMPUR: Karbon Hero has introduced its Plastic Waste Collection and Recycling Methodology to help tackle the global plastic pollution problem by providing incentives for the removal of plastic waste from the open environment through the collection, recycling, and sustainable storage of plastics. The system will provide incentives for the plastic removal effort through the Genesys Plastic ECO-Credits technique. Genesys Plastic ECO credits are issued by Genesys Reserve, the world’s first dynamic carbon and ecocredit registry via its Issuance, Ownership and Transfer (IO&T) Platform. Understanding the detrimental impacts of plastic pollution as well as the energy-intensive nature of plastic production and its contribution to high GHG emissions act as the main driving factors behind the development of this methodology. Karbon Hero’s approach in designing the methodology is grounded in the need for holistic sustainable development that maintains a balance between environmental and ecological considerations. The methodology underpins the concept of responsible consumption and production of plastics, it also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). Karbon Hero CEO Dr Sarah Shahril said: “We find ways to provide simple and practical solutions without compromising quality. Our Plastic Waste and Recycling Methodology is the product of extensive research and development that aims to push for impactful environmental uplift while addressing issues of transparency and reliability. “Through incentivising plastic collection and recycling activities, we can make a significant contribution to ecological conservation and reduce environmental and human health risks posed by plastic waste”. Setting the bar high and standing out with the Micro-Offset Methodology (MOM) framework developed by Karbon Hero will allow projects of any size to participate and generate income from their plastic collection, recycling and sustainable storage efforts. Karbon Hero is dedicated to championing grassroots initiatives that provide communities with limited financial capital and technical expertise to participate in the global drive for climate action to reduce plastic pollution. With the MOM, everyone can become a project developer no matter the scale of the project. Karbon Hero chief strategy officer Reuben Ravi said: “At Karbon Hero, our intentions of creating a sustainable future is rooted in the motivation to also uplift and support communities. “The MOM is the perfect way to do exactly that and we are extremely proud to be genuine agents of change in the world by offering this option to corporates and other funding organisations to support local communities via their ESG and CSR programmes. “We are revolutionising the market by propagating the idea that limited money or technical expertise is not a reason to be left behind in green financing”. Genesys ECO-Credits offers various options to corporates and other funding organisations to support ecological projects and bring sustainability to the community via their ESG and CSR initiatives. With the assurance of high-quality validation and verification standards to drive their impact investments. Interested parties will gain access to the methodology and project planning by signing up as an ECO-Credit developer or ECO-Credit funder. Volunteers planting saplings during a Project RELeaf event. Lenovo’s AI-powered tool helps businesses reduce IT footprint KUALA LUMUR: Lenovo has introduced a new AI-powered sustainability engine – Lenovo’s Intelligent Sustainability Solutions Advisor (LISSA) – that can help businesses in making more data-driven and environmentally friendly IT purchasing decisions. LISSA gives customers actionable sustainability insights to understand their estimated emissions impact across their IT lifecycle and deploy customised solutions that align with their sustainability goals. Through generative AI, LISSA offers visibility into the estimated carbon emissions associated with various Lenovo sustainabilty solutions such as TruScale Device as a Service (DaaS), Asset Recovery, packaging efficiencies, lower-carbon shipping options, lifecycle extensions, certified refurbishment, and more. Additionally, LISSA helps to simulate multiple solution pathways and identify potential emissions reduction opportunities to support the customer’s IT decarbonisation goals in the digital workplace. According to a recent poll, 87% of executives said that they believed artificial intelligence (AI) offered new opportunities for climate action and unlocked insights that may help reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions globally. Lenovo said in a press release it can assist companies in creating IT decarbonisation strategies with quantifiable sustainability results by providing them with expedited access to IT sustainability analytics and GenAI powered recommendations. “At Lenovo, we’re keen to underscore that sustainability is a business imperative and top of mind among leaders across all industries,” said Lenovo executive director of global sustainability services Claudia Contreras. “A new capability in our growing sustainability portfolio, LISSA arms customers with data and AI-powered recommendations to guide their IT purchasing decisions. By bringing sustainability attributes front and centre, we enable customers to unlock potential emission reduction opportunities and deploy IT solutions that help drive sustainability goals,” she said. Lenovo is committed to achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050, with science-based targets validated through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) Net-Zero Standard.
WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [emailprotected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [emailprotected] SCAN ME Data protection law to be amended KUALA LUMPUR: The government is planning to amend the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 to include breach notification requirements that compel companies to inform authorities when a data breach happens in commercial transactions, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. Gobind said his ministry proposes to table the amendment at the next sitting of parliament with a total of seven points that it wants to raise. “One of these is related to notification. When there is an incident where we believe there is an attempt to breach, companies need to notify the commission so that we can inform all involved parties ... data owners and so on. “If an incident occurs, several parties are involved. We need to ensure that all involved parties are informed so they can protect their interests. This is a provision we will include there. And there are other provisions,” he told reporters after the launch of LGMS “Made-in-Malaysia” StarSentry Cybersecurity Solution in support of the National Cyber Security Bill and “Cybersecurity for Rakyat” initiative yesterday. Gobind also announced a plan to table the National Data Sharing Bill – a law that allows data sharing which is currently being drafted – in the last quarter of this year. “We are now looking at the public sector. We need to look at that (data sharing) because that is a key ingredient for us to take full advantage of data that we have moving ahead with technology,” he said. Gobind also said his ministry plans to take the issue of cybersecurity incentives to the Cabinet for discussion to provide encouragement for cybersecurity efforts. “We will bring this matter to be discussed at the Cabinet level and see how we can possibly provide incentives. This (cybersecurity) is something the government should encourage. If we want to encourage it, we need to discuss how we can provide incentives or in other ways. This is something we will discuss,” he added. Gobind said there is a 5% increase in complaints about data breaches or leaks in the first quarter of this year from the last quarter of last year. “I have been informed by the data protection office that in the last quarter of last year, we had 157 reports, and in the first quarter of this year, there are 163,” he added. In light of these developments, he said, prioritising security measures is important in navigating the digital landscape. “We want to create a convincing Fong briefing Gobind at the launch of StarSentry. █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [emailprotected] SUBANG JAYA: Proton Holdings Bhd expects to sell up to 2,500 units of the newly introduced 2024 Proton X50 monthly, building on the strong ongoing reaction to the previous model. Proton deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah, stated that the Proton X50 has received an overwhelming reaction from consumers since the previous model’s debut in October 2020, and has remained one of Proton’s top models to this day. He said that although the (2024) X50 looks the same on the outside, there are 20 improvements involving noise, vibrations and harshness for customer comfort. “We re-emphasise the vehicle safety system that helps the driver and passengers of Proton X50,” he told reporters after launching the 2024 Proton X50 here yesterday. He said the 2024 Proton X50 model will continue to be exported to the 11 nations in Proton’s export portfolio. “The X50 has been favourably accepted in several international nations, including Brunei, South Africa, Bangladesh, and even Pakistan. Unfortunately, Pakistan is now facing an economic crisis, which has limited our sales there,“ he stated. Meanwhile, Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong said that the updated 2024 Proton X50 demonstrates Proton’s commitment to ongoing improvement and innovation while keeping the established product quality that its consumers demand. “Looking beyond the visual changes, it will also deliver exceptional value by combining strong performance with class-leading connectivity features backed by outstanding after-sales service from 157 3S/4S outlets nationwide,“ he said. Proton’s updated B-segment SUV is offered in the same Standard, Executive, Premium and Flagship variants, priced from RM86,300 to RM113,300 on-the-road excluding insurance. The company is introducing a limited-time Early Bird Package offering incentives of up to RM8,500 to the first 5,000 customers who register their new purchase by July 31. Li (left) and Roslan at the launch of the 2024 Proton X50. █ BYAIMIE SHAZRIE [emailprotected] Port of Tanjung Pelepas reaches new milestone in TEU handling PETALING JAYA: Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP), a joint venture between Malaysia-based MMC Group and Netherlands-based APM Terminals, achieved a new milestone by handling a record 1,077,747 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) in a single month. This achievement, accomplished without any congestion, reinforces PTP’s position as Malaysia’s busiest and largest transhipment hub. In 2022, PTP made history as the first container terminal in Malaysia to surpass 1 million TEU in a month, setting a record of 1,001,819 TEU at that time. Speaking on the achievement, PTP chairman Tan Sri Che Khalib Mohamad Noh, expressed pride in reaching this latest milestone despite the challenging global shipping environment. He emphasised that achieving this record without congestion allows PTP to provide a unique and valuable service to the global supply chain. “This achievement is the result of outstanding dedication and commitment from everyone to set up the right and sustainable business conditions, especially in applying advanced technological strategies in our day-to-day operations and focusing on delivering integrated customer services to our stakeholders.” PTP CEO Mark Hardiman affirmed that PTP is constantly evaluating and improving its strategic direction and initiatives to ensure sustainable growth, with a strong focus on safety and putting customers at the centre. “This latest record-breaking milestone and various other accomplishments set by PTP over the years underlined the value of PTP to the maritime sector, economic well-being, and trade for the global network.” PTP’s strategic approach to continuously enhancing efficiency and optimising operations, with a strong emphasis on safety, has been crucial in maintaining Malaysia’s competitive edge in an increasingly competitive global market, he added. oCompanies will be required to inform authorities when breach involving personal information occurs in commercial transactions ecosystem, a trusted ecosystem that will be used by everyone. This is something we need to examine carefully and ensure that steps are taken not only by the government but also by the public sector. We need to work together. Collaboration is very important,” he said. Developed entirely by LGMS Bhd and spearheaded by its wholly owned subsidiary Applied Security Intelligence Sdn Bhd (ASI), the solution aims to safeguard the domestic cybersecurity landscape before expanding regionally and internationally. LGMS chairman Fong Choong f*ck said StarSentry serves as a cybersecurity solution conceived from rigorous R&D and designed for user accessibility which took years in the making. “StarSentry is crafted with the principle of ‘Cybersecurity for Rakyat’ at its core, offering a user-friendly, plug-and-play approach at an affordable price. It encompasses a solution for SMEs to be aware of cyber threats within their systems, including cyber risk insurance for every eligible subscriber,“ said Fong. With vulnerability scanning and threat detection features, StarSentry empowers SMEs to enhance their cybersecurity posture and meet regulatory requirements, he added. During the event, the LGMS group via ASI solidified two key partnerships – one with Tokio Marine Insurans (Malaysia) Bhd which underwrites cyber insurance for subscribers of StarSentry and the other with VSTECS Astar Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of VSTECS Bhd, which was appointed as the exclusive distributor of StarSentry. StarSentry was developed in alignment with the recently announced National Cyber Security Bill 2024. Mitsui & Co Ltd of Japan holds 25% equity interest in LGMS. Improved Proton X50 launched
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 14 Developers with vast landbanks set to capture data centre wave: RHB IB KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Investment Bank Bhd (RHB IB) views that developers with vast landbanks at suitable locations will likely be able to capture the data centre (DC) wave, especially those with land equipped with infrastructure and located not far from major cities. The investment bank said some Malaysian property developers may gradually transform into real estate players in the coming years. It said the residential segment may be crowded, but the industrial segment is fast-rising, and developers with sizeable landbanks in Johor and the Klang Valley, as well as solid balance sheets, are more likely to seize opportunities. “The industrial property segment has grown rapidly and the prevailing DC boom is now a bigger catalyst since the start of US-China trade tensions, followed by the post-Covid19 reopening of economies. “Developers with properly designed industrial parks in their portfolios will more likely enjoy better earnings growth ahead,” it said in a note . RHB IB noted that UEM Sunrise Bhd, Sime Darby Property Bhd, SP Setia Bhd, Mah Sing Group Bhd, EcoWorld, and AME Elite Consortium Bhd are the developers that may benefit from the demand for DCs, given the location, amenities and infrastructure of their existing landbanks. “Based on our conversations with a few property developers, demand for DCs is very strong, while the supply of land with suitable features and facilities is limited,” it said. As such, it said some DC players are now exploring potential new areas in Tebrau and Ulu Tiram in Johor, due to the strategic triangle of DC hubs, together with Sedenak Tech Park and Nusajaya Tech Park in Iskandar Malaysia. “Mah Sing’s Southville City, Bukit Jalil and Cyberjaya also form a strategic triangle of DC hubs in the Klang Valley,” it said. It also noted that Johor is in a strategic location due to low latency access and easier operational coordination and management. “DC players could choose either to tap into the Singapore network or rely on the current submarine cable in Malaysia for connectivity. Elsewhere, Cyberjaya, a technology hub with good infrastructure and connectivity, has long been a focal point for DC investments,” it said. Therefore, RHB IB has maintained an “Overweight” rating on the property sector. It viewed the influx of DC-related investments as a new catalyst that should benefit the sector directly, especially for developers with strong balance sheets as well as exposure to industrial property projects. “Depending on the business model, developers will likely enjoy a revised net asset valuation re-rating from outright land sales, or creating a new stream of recurring income if they invest in DC facilities,” it said. It also opined that developers with exposure to the industrial segment should record better earnings growth ahead. - Bernama Local institutions turn buyers: MIDF KUALA LUMPUR: Local institutions ended their net selling streak of four weeks on Bursa Malaysia by purchasing a total of RM1.03 billion last week, said MIDF Research. The research firm said local institutions bought every trading day, with the highest amount on Friday at RM341.9 million. Similarly, local retailers concluded their 11- week streak of net selling by purchasing RM205.9 million worth of domestic equities last week. Meanwhile, foreign investors resumed net selling at RM1.24 billion after buying the previous five weeks. “Prior to that, investors had been net sellers for eight consecutive weeks,“ it said in a note yesterday. MIDF Research added that the foreign investors net sold RM174.6 million on Monday, RM177.5 million on Tuesday, RM313.4 million on Wednesday, RM86.5 million on Thursday, and RM488.7 million on Friday. The sectors with the highest net foreign inflows were technology (RM108.5 million), transportation and logistics (RM64.8 million), and property (RM22.4 million). Meanwhile, the highest net foreign outflows were financial services (RM800 million), utilities (RM250.7 million), and plantation (RM157.4 million). – Bernama Miti to probe report of US sanction on M’sian firm KUALA LUMPUR: The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) will conduct further investigation following a report that the United States (US) has imposed sanctions on a Malaysian company involved in semiconductors. Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said Miti, being the coordinating agency, needs to do an in-depth study on the matter as the company is among about 300 entities that were slapped with US sanctions. “It is better for Miti to fathom the issue and find out if it actually happened,” he told the media here yesterday. Al Jazeera reported that a Malaysia-based semiconductor maker, Jatronics Sdn Bhd, was among nearly 300 entities that Washington slapped with sanctions last month over their alleged links to Russia’s military suppliers. However, Amir Hamzah said he was made to understand that the Malaysian company is not a semiconductor producer but a trading company that sells semiconductor-related hardware. “Malaysia is an open economy. However, we want businesses to trade in the right way. So let the investigation be conducted and we will look at the findings. The important thing is, Malaysia will not tolerate it if something bad is going on,” he added. – Bernama MHB wins RM1.5b subcontract to build offshore substation KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Holdings Bhd’s (MHB) whollyowned subsidiary Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering Sdn Bhd has won a subcontract to build an offshore substation (OSS) highvoltage direct current platform worth RM1.5 billion. The contract, secured from Petrofac International (UAE) LLC, consists of construction engineering, fabrication, mechanical completion, load out and sea fastening and architectural works on an engineering, procurement and construction basis, it said. In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the group said this significant project, named Nederwiek 1, underscores its commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. Managing director and CEO Mohd Nazir Mohd Nor said the contract signified the group’s contribution to TenneT’s significant two-gigawatt programme in the Netherlands, supporting the rapid development of largescale offshore wind infrastructure projects, which are crucial to Europe’s energy transition. “We remain steadfast in ensuring the success of this project, aiming to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future and a better world for all. “Leveraging our extensive experience in executing complex offshore projects, coupled with an improved contracting strategy, our team is dedicated to delivering top-notch solutions while upholding the utmost standards of quality and safety,” he said. According to the filing, TenneT’s twogigawatt programme is a crucial step in Europe’s transition to a lower-carbon future, whereby Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Belgium have agreed to install at least 65 GW of offshore wind energy together by 2030. It said the OSS platform comprises a topside, weighing approximately 30,000 tonnes (including equipment) and a jacket, weighing approximately 10,000 tonnes. The duration of the project is about 36 months, with fabrication to begin in 2025 and completion by 2028, it added. – Bernama Putrajaya Corp, TNB in clean power collaboration PUTRAJAYA: The collaboration between Putrajaya Corporation (PPj) and Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) in the Supply Agreement of Renewable Energy (SARE) is capable of saving RM2.5 million for a period of 20 years. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the cooperation focused on the development of electricity, renewable energy and related matters for the development of Smart Cities and Low Carbon Cities in Putrajaya. “The collaboration between PPj and TNB includes development, maintenance, research and training related to renewable energy including the development of rooftop solar, electric vehicles and infrastructure, energy-related to public infrastructure and making Putrajaya a living laboratory location for energy-related technology,“ she said. She said this in a press conference after witnessing the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and the SARE between PPj and TNB, here yesterday. PPj president Datuk Fadlun Mak Ujud and TNB chief retail officer Kamal Arifin A. Rahman were also present. Dr Zaliha said the collaboration supports Dr Zaliha (centre) witnessing the exchange of documents between Fadlun (left) and TNB CEO Datuk Megat Jalaluddin Megat Hassan . – BERNAMAPIC oSupply Agreement of Renewable Energy capable of saving RM2.5m for a period of 20 years the government’s efforts in the National Energy Transition Roadmap as well as several plans in Putrajaya including the Putrajaya Smart City Action Plan (2018-2025) and the Putrajaya Low Carbon City Roadmap by 2030. Besides, she said the MoU is in line with achieving the vision of CHASE City (clean, healthy, advanced, safe and eco-friendly city) initiated by the Federal Territories Department. At the start of the SARE programme, TNB through its subsidiary, GSPARX, will install a solar system with a capacity of 363 kilowatts (kW) at PPj Complex and eight other main buildings including the Putrajaya Equestrian Park and the Putrajaya Lake Club which are expected to be completed early next year. Apart from that, Dr Zaliha said, GSPARX is also offering a special solar promotion to 200 homes to Putrajaya residents who want to use green energy while enjoying savings on electricity bills. The promotion will run for two months from June 1 to July 31 through three application methods, namely physically at Kedai Tenaga Putrajaya, by phone at 0103376769/01136463837 or email at [emailprotected]. Dr Zaliha said the MoU will also see several efforts towards green energy including the installation of 28,000 light emitting diode lamp posts around Putrajaya and 500 electric vehicle charging stations by 2030 from 18 stations so far. – Bernama
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 15 Education remains an important pillar of Malaysian society; it equips students with the skills needed to become productive and useful members of society. We invite you to showcase the best of education and the difference your institution has brought to the education landscape. Education matters so join us in 2024! Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [emailprotected] KPS Q1 earnings surge on disposal gain SHAH ALAM: Kumpulan Perangsang Selangor Bhd (KPS) reported profit attributable to owners of the parent (patami) of RM48.5 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2024, a significant increase from the corresponding quarter of the previous year (Q1’23). The rise was primarily driven by an increase in the operating profit resulting mainly from the gain from the divestment of 50% of its equity stake in Kaiserkorp Corporation Sdn Bhd, the parent company of King Koil Manufacturing and King Koil Licensing in March 2024. In a press statement, it said that the manufacturing segment recorded a 6% decline in year-onyear (YoY) revenue, contributing RM213.9 million to the group, compared with RM227.5 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. At RM213.9 million, the manufacturing businesses, which include Toyoplas Manufacturing (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, MDS Advance Sdn Bhd, Century Bond Bhd, CPI (Penang) Sdn Bhd, and KKMW, accounted for 82% of the group’s total revenue. Following the disposal of a 50% equity stake in Kaiserkorp in March 2024, KKMW contributed to the oToyoplas Manufacturing remains group’s largest revenue contributor despite decline of RM11.2 million AHAM Capital launches biotechnology fund KUALA LUMPUR: AHAM Asset Management Berhad (AHAM Capital) launched the AHAM World Series – Biotechnology Fund - a wholesale feeder growth fund that provides investors access to the burgeoning opportunities within the biotechnology investment universe. The fund will primarily invest in the Janus Henderson Horizon Biotechnology Fund (Target Fund), managed by Janus Henderson (Target Fund Manager). To achieve its investment objective, the fund will allocate a minimum of 85% of its net asset value (NAV) to the Target Fund and a maximum of 15% to money market instruments, deposits, and/or cash. AHAM Capital product solutions & customer experience chief officer Anton Tan said, “Biotechnology companies are at the forefront of scientific innovation, rapidly enhancing our genetic understanding to develop new treatment for major diseases. Over the past decade, we have seen significant improvements in scientific productivity, with the number of drugs receiving FDA approval doubling from 121 to 243 in the past 20 years. He added that the biotechnology sector offers a broad spectrum of opportunities across small and largecap companies, providing diversification for investors’ portfolios and by positioning themselves in this healthcare revolution, investors can benefit from the continued breakthroughs in biotechnology. On outlook for the sector Janus Handershon portfolio manager, Andy Acker said that biotechnology is currently undergoing unprecedented levels of innovation, thanks to dramatic improvements in life science tools, genetic engineering, and new modalities for treating human diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disease, and rare genetic conditions. “These advancements are unearthing opportunities for investors to identify the next blockbuster (billion dollar) therapies and generate alpha for clients,” he added. Analysts mixed on banking sector’s valuations KUALA LUMPUR: Analysts have mixed views on the valuation of the Malaysian banking sector, with Kenanga Research maintaining an “Overweight” call and Maybank Investment Bank (Maybank IB) Research positive on the sector. However, Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) retained ”Neutral” on the sector but recommended “Buy” calls on Public Bank, AmBank Group and Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd. In a note, Kenanga Research said it has maintained “Overweight” on the sector as its earnings resilience remains highly supported. The first quarter of 2024 (Q1’24) results season was positive, with seven out of 10 coming in within expectations, and three banks reporting better-than-expected numbers. “Industry-wide, although most banks are guiding conservatively on possibly easing in loans growth numbers, performance in Q1’24 showed encouraging results with a handful able to report above industry numbers (6%),“ it said. As such, Kenanga Research has chosen CIMB as its sector top pick for Q2’24, followed by RHB Bank. For smallcap banks, Alliance Bank remains a favourite for its solid fundamentals which are comparable to its large-cap peers. Similarly, Maybank IB is positive on the continued upward trajectory in loan growth as well as the current account savings account segment, of which both trends are positive for the banking sector. It said industry loan growth maintained an upward trajectory, improving slightly to 6.1% year-on-year (y-o-y) in April 2024 from 6% y-o-y in March 2024. – Bernama group’s revenue for only two months, totaling RM21.2 million. Toyoplas remained the group’s largest revenue contributor despite a decline of RM11.2 million, bringing in RM70.3 million this quarter compared with RM81.5 million in the corresponding quarter last year. This decrease was attributed to elevated inventory levels held by its major customers from the previous year. The company said MDS also showed a slight reduction of RM1.6 million from RM5.8 million in the corresponding quarter last year, impacted by heightened customer inventory levels. Conversely, it added that an upward trend was seen in CBB, the second-highest revenue contributor to the group, which registered a healthy RM64.7 million, up by RM6.2 million from the revenue generated in Q1’23, driven by higher traction in the paper and consumer division. “So did CPI; it recorded a revenue of RM53.4 million, RM5.7 million higher than the corresponding quarter in FY23, derived from higher sales in all business segments except for automotive and healthcare,” said the company. A further RM39.3 million of the group revenue was derived from the trading business, represented by Aqua-Flo Sdn Bhd, whose revenue rose by 9% from RM36 million in the corresponding quarter last year due to higher sales of water chemicals and related projects during the quarter. The licensing business, KKLC, reported lower revenue of RM7 million for the current quarter, down from RM9.5 million in Q1’23. This decline is due to the consolidation of only two months’ results, unlike the entire three months’ results in the previous quarter. For the quarter under review, other income was RM117.8 million, reflecting a significant increase of RM95.9 million from RM21.9 million in the same quarter last year, driven by the gain from the disposal of a 50% equity stake in Kaiserkorp. Other expenses increased to RM104.5 million from RM65.1 million in Q1’23, primarily due to the implementation of a long-term incentive plan rewarding employees for achieving specific goals that are aligned with the group’s corporate objectives. Reflecting this, the group’s operating profit rose to RM65.4 million compared to RM12 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. With the improvement in operating profit, KPS reported a higher profit after tax of RM50.3 million, a significant increase from the RM2.9 million recorded in the corresponding quarter last year. Similarly, its patami increased to RM48.5 million from the previous year’s corresponding quarter. KPS managing director/group CEO Ahmad Fariz Hassan, said: “We continue to implement measures to mitigate the impact of subdued market sentiments, aligning with our long-term strategy focused on driving revenue growth through diversification into new regions and industries, as well as expanding product offerings. Simultaneously, we aim to improve profitability by enhancing operational efficiency and optimising costs.”
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 16 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Frustration in the air: Boeing delays cloud aviation meeting DUBAI: Back-slapping over record passenger figures is tinged with frustration at the airline trade body’s annual meeting as carriers lament years-long delays to deliveries of new Boeing aircraft. Headline projections of nearly five billion passengers and close to US$1 trillion (RM4.69 trillion) in revenues this year, both records, were reasons for celebration at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) annual general meeting in Dubai. But the figures would have been stronger without the problems facing Boeing, one of the two major aircraft suppliers along with Airbus, whose safety and manufacturing standards are under the spotlight. “It is suppressing growth at the moment, without question,” said IATA director-general Willie Walsh, explaining that delivery delays had been “factored in” to the annual estimates. Last week, Boeing, at the centre of a number of safety incidents, announced more inspectors and improved benchmarks under a “roadmap” demanded by US regulators. The US aeronautics giant has faced intense scrutiny following manufacturing problems and damning testimony from whistleblowers. On Jan 5, a Boeing 737 MAX 9 operated by Alaska Airlines made an emergency landing after a fuselage panel blew out mid-flight. The jet was only delivered in October. The same model had been grounded after two accidents linked to design defects in 2018 and 2019 which left a total of 346 people dead. Boeing also suffered production problems last year on the 737 and the long-haul 787 Dreamliner, while deliveries of the 777X are expected in 2025 – six years behind schedule. Dubai’s state-owned Emirates airline, which placed a massive order of 205 777Xs for tens of billions of dollars, has been particularly hard-hit by the delays. “For me, this will be a five-year hiatus (for Boeing) starting from now ... to get the production levels back,” Emirates president Tim Clark told Bloomberg. Walsh said delivery delays were also being seen from Airbus, Boeing’s European rival, at a time when many carriers are eager to renew or expand their fleets as the industry roars back Officials from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism entering Toyota Motor Corp’s headquarters for an inspection in Toyota City, Aichi prefecture, yesterday. – AFPPIC oUS aeronautics giant has faced intense scrutiny following manufacturing problems and damning testimony from whistleblowers India shares dive as polls show Modi’s mandate slipping MUMBAI/SINGAPORE: Indian stocks tanked the most in over four years yesterday, as vote counting suggested Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance is unlikely to win an overwhelming majority as predicted by exit polls. Modi’s National Democratic Alliance (NDA) looked set to secure a majority in early vote counting in the general election, but the opposition alliance (INDIA) led by Rahul Gandhi’s centrist Congress party was also doing better than expected. Moreover, the BJP was short of a majority of its own, according to TV channels, which could introduce some uncertainty into governance with the overall NDA alliance numbers well short of the landslide predicted in exit polls. The Nifty index dropped as much as 8.5% to 21,281.45 points while the BSE index fell to a low of 70,234.43 points, down 8.15% on the day. That was the biggest fall since March 2020 and pulled stocks sharply away from record highs struck a day earlier. By 0750 GMT, both markets had recovered slightly to trade down 5.5% on the day. “The biggest disappointment for the market is the fact that BJP does not have a majority,” said Dipan Mehta, founder director at Elixir Equities. “I don’t need to say more, but that opens up a Pandora’s box because all the other players, whether they are NDA or INDIA, they are all quite volatile. So the biggest concern in the market is the fact that BJP did not get the majority on its own”. Exit polls over the weekend had projected a big win for Modi’s NDA, catapulting markets to all-time highs on Monday as investors were buoyed by expectations of sustained economic growth. Benchmark indices had more than tripled in value since Modi became prime minister in May 2014, as of Monday’s close. However, yesterday, shares of government-owned banks, infrastructure and capital goods firms that gained sharply on Monday, saw the largest falls. “We will see the pullback as a buying opportunity,” said Gary Tan, portfolio manager at Allspring Global Investments. “Regardless of the final election count, the India economy will continue to benefit from longer-term tailwinds of favourable population demographics and the ongoing geopolitical tensions between China and US.” The lack of clarity on the margin of victory for the NDA saw intraday volatility on the share index rise to its highest level in 26 months. A drop in volumes in recent weeks and selling by high-frequency traders is also accelerating the drop, he said. The rupee dropped to as low as 83.5175 against the dollar, its weakest since May 15 versus its previous close of 83.1425. – Reuters Japan transport officials visit Toyota HQ over testing scandal TOKYO: Japanese transport officials inspected Toyota’s headquarters yesterday after the top-selling automaker and four others including Honda and Mazda admitted failure to fully comply with national vehicle inspection standards. Five representatives visited the offices in central Aichi region to probe breaches declared by the company related to domestic shipment certifications. The transport ministry on Monday told five Japanese auto giants to stop delivering the affected vehicle models within Japan. Toyota and others have stressed that the vehicles in question are safe and in some cases passed internal tests that were stricter than the standardised requirements. “We will carry out on-site inspections” at each of the companies, Transport Minister Tetsuo Saito told reporters. “These acts erode the trust of vehicle users and shake the very foundation of the vehicle certification system. It is extremely regrettable,” he said yesterday. The sprawling scandal has sparked soul-searching within the country’s huge auto industry, following safety test irregularities at Toyota subsidiary Daihatsu. That firm in December admitted manipulating tests since at least 1989 and the government ordered it to halt all factory operations – dealing a blow to the world’s number four economy. Its shipments resumed in April after the order was lifted. In the wake of the Daihatsu scandal, the transport ministry told 85 automakers and parts suppliers to seek out and report breaches related to certification applications. Then companies including Toyota separately said they had not followed Japanese standards to the letter. The finance and industry ministers have voiced concerns about the incident’s impact on the economy, including how shipment suspensions could affect parts suppliers. – AFP Vietnam expands effort to rescue Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank HANOI: Vietnam’s central bank lent another US$1.2 billion (RM5.6 billion) to ailing Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank (SCB) over the last two months, according to a bank document seen by Reuters, taking the total to US$24.5 billion as part of its efforts to rescue depositors. The massive bailout of SCB’s depositors has so far cost the central bank the equivalent of 6% of Vietnam’s 2023 gross domestic product (GDP) in special loans. Reuters reported in April that the central bank had mounted an “unprecedented” rescue of SCB, a lender engulfed in the nation’s biggest financial fraud, which a source at that time said would collapse without the funding. As of May 29, the central bank had lent SCB 622.7 trillion dong (US$24.5 billion), according to the document prepared by SCB that detailed daily injections into the bank to keep track of the funds and their use, up from 592.7 trillion dong as of April 2. SCB used the central bank funds to help it settle withdrawals and payments of 626.9 trillion dong since October 2022 when the lender was put under central bank supervision, the document showed. At that time, it had deposits of 669 trillion dong. The State Bank of Vietnam and SCB, previously one of the country’s largest commercial lenders by deposits, did not reply to Reuters’ requests for comment. The State Bank of Vietnam confirmed in April it was providing financial support to SCB. The run on SCB was triggered by the October 2022 arrest of real estate tycoon Truong My Lan, who in April was sentenced to death after being found guilty of masterminding a huge fraud at the bank. Judges concluded that she siphoned off US$12.5 billion in loans from SCB to shell companies while effectively controlling the bank through proxies. She pleaded not guilty and has appealed the ruling. Under Vietnam’s official deposit guarantee scheme, only about US$5,000 is covered per depositor per bank, but as of early April, the central bank’s cash injections into SCB amounted to about a quarter of Vietnam’s foreign exchange reserves. – Reuters post-pandemic. “I think it’s the cause of quite a lot of frustration,” he said. “Many airlines see opportunities to expand their network, want to provide services to new destinations that can’t, because they can’t get the new aircraft.” Boeing is at a crossroads after the departure of CEO Dave Calhoun was announced in March. His successor has not been announced. “Whoever runs Boeing needs to restabilise the pride of engineering which Boeing is known for,“ said Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr. “The industry needs Boeing ... nobody wants less competition,” he added. Scott Kirby, who heads United Airlines, agreed that Boeing needs to get back to its strengths. “They are one of the best technology, engineering, and quality companies in the world,” he said. “But they, I think, let the shortterm financials take primacy.” Vik Krishnan, an aeronautics specialist with consultancy McKinsey, testified to “exasperation” among airlines. It “ultimately shows that there is an unmet demand (for travel) and that there is no easy solution,“ he told AFP. As Airbus shares many suppliers with Boeing and some of their problems, it’s a major bottleneck for an industry during a period of major expansion. “It’s not good news that Boeing is in the situation it is in, including for Airbus,“ said Jerome Bouchard, partner at management consultancy Oliver Wyman. – AFP
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 17 Philippine central bank may cut rate before Fed makes move B R I E F SINDIA’S MAY PALM OIL IMPORTS HIT 4-MONTH HIGH MUMBAI: India’s palm oil imports rose by 12.4% in May from the previous month to reach the highest level in four months as the recent correction in prices led to higher purchases, five dealers told Reuters. Palm oil imports in May jumped to 769,000 metric tons, the highest since January, according to estimates from dealers. Palm oil imports jumped last month as higher margins prompted traders to increase refined palm oil purchases, rising to 214,000 tons from 124,228 tons the previous month, said Rajesh Patel, managing partner at edible oil trader and broker GGN Research. Crude palm oil’s imports are offered at about US$948 (RM3,336) a metric ton, including cost, insurance and freight, in India for July delivery, while soyoil and sunflower oil are offered around US$1,028 and US$1,035 a ton, respectively, dealers said. WORLD FALLING SHORT ON 2030 RENEWABLES GOAL: IEA PARIS: Nations are falling short of the goal agreed at UN climate talks to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 as part of efforts to curb global warming, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said yesterday. An IEA analysis of policies, plans and estimates from nearly 150 countries found that they could reach 8,000 gigawatts of renewable power capacity in six years. This would be well short of the 11,000 GW pledged at the COP28 climate talks in Dubai late last year in order to reach the goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels. “But governments have tools to step up in coming months” through their Nationally Determined Contributions, the agency said. – AFP BOJ must be ‘very vigilant’ to yen’s impact on economy TOKYO: Bank of Japan (BOJ) deputy governor Ryozo Himino said the central bank must be “very vigilant” to the impact the yen’s moves could have on the economy, suggesting the currency’s weakness will be among factors affecting the timing of its next interest rate increase. However, he said it was inappropriate for central banks to directly target exchange rates in setting monetary policy, as other factors needed to be considered as well. “Exchange rate fluctuations affect economic activity in various ways. It also affects inflation in a broad-based and sustained way, beyond the direct impact on import prices,” Himino said yesterday. “That’s why we obviously need to be very vigilant to, and analyse very closely, the impact oDeputy governor says central bank should not automatically set rates in response to currency’s moves of exchange-rate volatility on the economy, prices and their outlook,” he said in a panel session hosted by Columbia University here. The BOJ shouldn’t automatically respond to exchange rate moves in setting interest rates, though, as there were “other aspects” that need to be taken into account such as the economic and price outlook, he added. A weak yen has become a headache for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s administration, which has seen its approval ratings slump as the currency’s decline pushed up households’ cost of living by inflating the price of importing food and fuel. BOJ governor Kazuo Ueda has ruled out using monetary policy to directly influence exchange rate moves, but signalled the chance of raising rates if the weak yen pushes up inflation more than expected. Many market players expect the BOJ to raise interest rates from current near-zero levels this year with some expecting a move as early as July, partly to slow the yen’s persistent decline. Asked what the central bank would do with its huge balance sheet, Himino said the BOJ would make a decision focusing on how it would affect the economy, prices and its goal South Korea pledges US$24b support for Africa SEOUL: President Yoon Suk Yeol yesterday announced billions of dollars in new aid and investment support for Africa, as South Korea looks to boost trade ties with the continent. Seoul is hosting delegations from 48 African countries for a major summit this week, which Yoon had told AFP would aim to secure deals on everything from critical minerals to infrastructure projects. At the opening of the event, Yoon pledged that the South Korean government would double its current official development aid to Africa to US$10 billion (RM46.9 billion) by 2030, and would also provide US$14 billion of export financing to help Korean firms expand trade and investment across the continent. “We will also actively contribute to Africa’s regional economic integration efforts through the African Continental Free Trade Zone (AfCFTA), which was launched in 2019,” Yoon said. The AfCFTA is styled as the biggest freetrade accord in the world in terms of population – gathering 54 out of 55 African countries, with Eritrea the only holdout. Yoon also vowed to “accelerate agreements” on multiple other trade partnerships. While South Korea is eager to expand infrastructure and energy cooperation with African nations, Yoon said the East Asian country was mindful of the impact of climate change on the continent. Citing projects such as the Olkaria geothermal power plant in Kenya and the construction of the Battery Energy Storage System in South Africa, “Korea will continue to expand its ‘green ladder’ and respond to the climate change crisis with African countries,” Yoon added. Yoon and the leaders of 48 African countries agreed to forge an economic partnership agreement and establish a framework to promote trade and exchange, according to a joint declaration. Wrapping up their first-ever summit in Seoul, both sides also agreed to launch talks on critical minerals to secure stable supplies, the declaration said. Today, South Korean business leaders will host a business summit focused on investment, industrial development and food security. Yoon will continue separate meetings with visiting leaders. – AFP, Reuters A police officer stands guard in front of a big banner of the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit at the Kintex exhibition centre in Goyang yesterday. – AFPPIC of sustainably achieving its 2% inflation target. “It’s desirable for markets to set long-term interest rates. On the other hand, the BOJ has been deeply involved in the bond market up till very recently and our presence remains very large. We need to avoid causing discontinuity or any unintended moves in the market,” Himino said. The remarks underscore the tricky balancing act the BOJ faces in allowing market forces to drive long-term interest rates higher, while avoiding an abrupt spike in bond yields. In March, the BOJ ended eight years of negative interest rates and a policy capping long-term borrowing costs around zero dubbed yield curve control. The decision was partly aimed at breathing life back to a market made dormant by the BOJ’s huge presence, and allowing market forces to drive yield moves. Markets are focusing on whether the BOJ, at its next policy meeting on June 13-14, will move to a full-fledged reduction in its huge bond purchases. The 10-year government bond yield briefly jumped to 1.1% last week, the highest level since July 2011, on growing expectations of a near-term interest rate hike. – Reuters MANILA: The Philippine central bank governor reiterated yesterday that the benchmark rate could be cut ahead of the Federal Reserve (Fed), keeping pressure on the peso against the dollar amid expectations US rates will stay higher for longer. Governor Eli Remolona said the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is ready to take action when the peso is under stress, but added that the central bank does not intervene in the foreign exchange market on a daily basis. “We intervene to express our own view where the peso should be going,” Remolona said. The Philippine peso has weakened past 58 per dollar to its lowest in 19 months. So far in 2024, the peso has fallen 5.8% against the dollar. The central bank chief said the benchmark policy rate – currently sitting at a 17-year high of 6.50% – could be cut before the Fed starts its easing cycle, repeating previous comments as policymakers gain more confidence about reining in inflation pressure. Remolona said the BSP is already less hawkish than before as inflation could settle within its 2% to 4% comfort range sometime this year after staying above the top end of that target for two consecutive years. The Philippine central bank, which kept its benchmark rate steady at its last five meetings, has said it was looking to cut rates by 25 basis points as early as August and by another 25 basis points in the fourth quarter. The BSP’s stance and market pricing suggesting the Fed’s first cut could come as late as December have undermined the peso. However, Remolona played down comments made by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto last month on the possibility of 150 basis points of rate cuts over the next two years, saying that it might be “too aggressive” given the current growth path. “For that to happen, I think there should be a risk of a hard landing,” he added. The Philippine economy grew 5.7% in the first quarter, lagging expectations but picking up the pace slightly from the last three months of 2023. – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 18 Intel’s new chip tech takes on Nvidia, AMD TAIPEI: US chip titan Intel yesterday struck a defiant tone in the face of strong challenges from rivals Nvidia, AMD and Qualcomm, unveiling technologies it said would lead the artificial intelligence revolution. For decades, Intel has dominated the market for the chips that run everything from laptops to data centres. But in recent years, its competitors especially Nvidia, have soared ahead on specialised AI processors. During a keynote speech at Taiwan’s Computex expo, CEO Pat Gelsinger introduced Intel’s latest Xeon 6 processors for servers and shared more details about its nextgen Lunar Lake chips for AI PCs. “AI is driving one of the most consequential eras of innovation the industry has ever seen,“ Gelsinger said. “The magic of silicon is once again enabling exponential advancements in computing that will push the boundaries of human potential and power the global oCompany unveils its latest Xeon 6 server processors and shares details on its next-gen Lunar Lake chips for AI-enabled PCs Macau casinos court premium customers HONG KONG: A change in the type of customers coming to Macau has seen smaller casino operators MGM China and Wynn Macau reap rewards, while larger rivals Sands China and Galaxy Entertainment rush to catch up. As visitors gravitate back to the world’s biggest gambling hub, the recovery has shifted towards affluent premium mass customers, whose individual bets at high-limit baccarat tables range from hundreds of dollars to a few thousand dollars. The high roller VIP segment, which used to account for the bulk of Macau’s revenues, has collapsed due to strict regulation, while the lowest spending mass segment involving minimum bets of about US$60 (RM282) is still not back to 2019 levels. Macau is the only place in China where casino gambling is legal. With expectations of 14% gross domestic product growth this year, the special administrative region is an outlier as the rest of the country grapples with a slowing economy and sluggish consumption. “Macau is doing well but not all operators are enjoying that recovery,“ said DS Kim, an analyst at JPMorgan in Hong Kong. Big operators like Sands and Galaxy have outsized exposure to the lower end of the mass market, hence their share momentum was not as good as they or the market had expected, he said. Galaxy and Sands China shares have fallen by 11.2% and 16.7% respectively since the start of the year, whereas MGM China and Wynn Macau are up by 46% and 15.7% over the same period. “For now, as traffic and gaming demand has not yet recovered to its 2019 levels, MGM China and Wynn Macau, given their relatively smaller size and premium mass-focused business, benefit from better operating efficiency including marketing and sales to premium clients,“ said Jennifer Song, an analyst at Morningstar in Shenzhen. Visitors to Macau are at 75% of pre-pandemic levels in 2019, government data shows, while gambling revenues are expected to reach 80% of pre-Covid figures this year. On recent earnings calls, the casino operators outlined their growth strategies. MGM China has benefited the most from Macau’s recovery, with its gross gaming revenue share rising from 9.5% in 2019 to more than 17% The high roller VIP segment, which used to account for the bulk of Macau’s revenues, has collapsed due to strict regulation, – UNSPLASH PIX J&J told to pay US$260m in latest talc trial NEW YORK: Johnson & Johnson (J&J) must pay US$260 million (RM1.2 billion) to an Oregon woman who said she got mesothelioma, a deadly cancer linked to asbestos exposure, from inhaling the company’s talc powder, a jury found on Monday. The verdict in the 4th Judicial District Circuit Court in Portland comes as the company continues to pursue a proposed US$6.48 billion settlement of most talc-related lawsuits against it through a prepackaged bankruptcy. The jury’s award includes US$60 million in compensatory damages and US$200 million in punitive damages and includes damages for both the plaintiff and her husband. Erik Haas, J&J’s worldwide vice president of litigation, said in a statement that the verdict “is irreconcilable with the decades of independent scientific evaluations confirming talc is safe, does not contain asbestos, and does not cause cancer.” He said the company would appeal and was confident it would get the verdict reversed. The plaintiff in the case, Kyung Lee, was diagnosed last year with mesothelioma at age 48. Lee alleged that she inhaled asbestostainted talc over more than 30 years, beginning when her mother used it on her when she was a baby and later when she used it herself as a deodorant. J&J maintains that its talc products do not contain asbestos and do not cause cancer and that decades of scientific studies support their safety. A lawyer for J&J said at trial that Lee’s illness was likely caused by exposure to asbestos used at a factory near where she grew up. Reuters watched the trial through Courtroom View Network. J&J faces lawsuits from more than 61,000 plaintiffs over talc. The vast majority are by women with ovarian cancer, with only a small minority involving people with mesothelioma. The company has settled most of the mesothelioma cases. J&J needs the support of 75% of the remaining plaintiffs to get approval for a bankruptcy settlement that would end the litigation, shutting off future cases and preventing people from opting out of the deal. Courts rejected two previous efforts by the company to resolve the talc cases in bankruptcy. J&J has said it is confident that support from plaintiffs will allow the latest attempt to succeed. A group of plaintiffs opposed to the deal on May 22 filed a class action lawsuit aiming to stop it, calling it a “fraudulent” abuse of the bankruptcy system. Trials in the talc cases have had a mixed record, with major plaintiff wins including a US$2.1 billion judgment in 2021 awarded to 22 women with ovarian cancer. In April, J&J won an ovarian cancer case and was hit with a US$45 million verdict in a mesothelioma case. – Reuters Microsoft hit with Austrian privacy complaints over its education programme BRUSSELS: Microsoft yesterday found itself targeted in two complaints filed by privacy advocacy group NOYB to the Austrian privacy watchdog related to its online education software, the latest grievances levelled against the US tech giant. Online educational programmes gained in popularity during the Covid-19 pandemic as schools switched to remote teaching and students became online learners. NOYB’s (None of your business) gripes centre on Microsoft’s 365 Education suite of software programmes for students that include Word, Excel, Microsoft Teams, PowerPoint and Outlook. In its first complaint, the advocacy group alleged Microsoft shifts its responsibility as a data controller required to process users’ personal data under EU privacy rules known as the General Data Protection Regulation to schools, which do not hold the necessary data. “Under the current system that Microsoft is imposing on schools, your school would have to audit Microsoft or give them instructions on how to process pupils’ data. Everyone knows that such contractual arrangements are out of touch with reality,“ NOYB lawyer Maartje de Graaf said in a statement. “This is nothing more but an attempt to shift the responsibility for children’s data as far away from Microsoft as possible,“ she said. The second complaint focuses on cookies installed in Microsoft’s 365 Education. Advertisers use cookies to track consumers. – Reuters economy for years to come.” Gelsinger said Intel’s latest equipment provides the best available mix of performance, energy efficiency and affordability. Intel’s Gaudi systems – used for advanced AI work such as training models – come at a third of the cost of what competitors offer, he claimed. Gelsinger’s presentation followed earlier keynote speeches by Nvidia boss Jensen Huang, AMD CEO Lisa Su and Qualcomm’s Cristiano Amon – and they were replete with claims and counterclaims about which firm’s products were best for AI. Su and Amon gave detailed presentations on the chips their companies have developed for AIenhanced personal computers. Microsoft this month unveiled its Copilot+ AI PCs, which will have artificial intelligence features built into its Windows operating system. Along with Microsoft, these will be offered by some of the world’s biggest manufacturers including Dell, HP, Samsung and Lenovo, and will have AI features on the device and not just through the internet. Gelsinger in particular rejected Qualcomm’s claim that its AI PC chips were better than Intel’s. “I just want to put that to bed right now,“ he said. “Ain’t true!” AI computers are expected to be 80% of the PC market by 2028, Intel said, citing the Boston Consulting Group. Computex is the top annual tech showcase in Taiwan, whose semiconductor industry is crucial to the production of everything from iPhones to the servers that run ChatGPT. With the world’s leading tech firms betting big on AI, Taiwanese manufacturers have emerged as central players in those plans. The island produces the bulk of the world’s most advanced semiconductors, including those needed for the most powerful AI applications and research. Taiwan’s government wants to use these capabilities to accelerate the widespread use of AI. “We have a lot to do to build Taiwan into an AI-smart island,“ President Lai Ching-te, who took office last month, said during a visit to Computex yesterday. However, Taiwan’s central position in the supply chain for semiconductors – the lifeblood of the modern economy – has become a source of concern in capitals and boardrooms around the world. – AFP this year. It was the only operator allowed an increase in gaming table numbers under a government reallocation from January 2023 and it is adding more villas and suites to its properties. Wynn Macau, which is building a food hall, continues “to punch above our weight on a revenue per hotel room basis generating meaningful market share,“ CEO Craig Billings said. But executives at Sands China and Galaxy, which have more tables, said their resorts are well-poised to catch up. Galaxy will open its high-end Capella Hotel next year and increase demand from the premium mass segment, said Ying Tat Chan, Galaxy’s chief financial officer. Mass-market-focused Sands China, which closed some hotel rooms and its 15,000-seat show arena for renovations in January, remains the biggest operator in Macau. – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 19 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) CARLSBG 19.26 -0.54 3,472 PETDAG 19.36 -0.44 10,509 AJI 15.94 -0.4 1,245 BAT 8.55 -0.35 1,187 HLIND 11.4 -0.29 902 ALLIANZ 22.08 -0.22 472 GCB-C5 1.07 -0.21 50 MCEMENT 5.01 -0.19 22,147 TIMECOM 5.09 -0.19 13,072 BIPORT 6.25 -0.15 29 KSENG 5.91 -0.15 1,870 SP500-C42 0.855 -0.14 151 GASMSIA 3.57 -0.12 12,134 GCB 3.95 -0.12 47,159 KHIND 2.7 -0.12 148 SUNWAY-C12 0.67 -0.12 600 PBBANK-C1E 0.035 -0.115 3,260 ALIBABA-C37 0.04 -0.11 100 SMI 0.44 -0.11 236,159 BIMB 2.41 -0.1 16,466 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME JCY 0.595 +0.070 +13.33 1,383,085 HSI-CV7 0.155 +0.020 +14.81 1,340,433 HSI-HU8 0.125 -0.005 -3.85 1,281,814 SNS 0.655 +0.050 +8.26 886,661 MYEG 1.1 - - 682,323 SEALINK 0.305 +0.025 +8.93 630,080 FAJAR-WC 0.125 +0.015 +13.64 483,497 VELESTO 0.265 - - 446,068 PUC 0.055 +0.005 +10.00 417,259 AHB 0.115 -0.01 -8.00 399,347 BJCORP 0.3 +0.010 +3.45 394,669 ALPHA 0.305 -0.01 -3.17 394,502 DSONIC 0.505 +0.020 +4.12 393,228 MQTECH 0.015 +0.005 +50.00 382,633 KENERGY 0.685 +0.045 +7.03 379,561 ASTRO 0.365 +0.045 +14.06 379,510 GHLSYS 1.08 +0.020 +1.89 343,302 PMETAL 5.83 +0.230 +4.11 324,901 DNEX 0.46 +0.010 +2.22 315,395 HSI-HU6 0.095 -0.035 -26.92 304,791 SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format. MARKET ROUND-UP: JUNE 4 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 12,278.49 +116.97 FBMKLCI 1,615.40 +18.72 CONSUMER PRODUCTS & SERVIC 598.10 -0.92 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS & SERV 196.89 +2.03 CONSTRUCTION 245.64 +2.46 FINANCIAL SERVICES 17,723.88 +197.66 ENERGY 966.85 -0.51 TELECOMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA 605.36 +10.75 HEALTH CARE 2,091.65 +2.39 TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS 1,109.78 +9.30 PROPERTY 1,084.61 -3.68 PLANTATION 7,179.00 +107.60 FBMSHA 12,503.65 +111.29 FBMACE 5,424.04 +34.47 TECHNOLOGY 74.08 +1.40 TURNOVER: 4.457 bil VALUE: RM3.937 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 38,571.03 -115.29 -0.3 S&P 500 (US) 5,283.40 5.89 0.11 NASDAQ (US) 16,828.67 93.65 0.56 NYSE (US) 18,006.96 -76.73 -0.42 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4,947.46 -56.08 -1.12 FTSE 100 (UK) 8,204.77 -57.98 -0.7 DAX (GER) 18,382.66 -225.5 -1.21 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 38,837.46 -85.57 -0.22 TOPIX INDEX (JPN) 2,787.48 -10.59 -0.38 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 18,444.11 41.07 0.22 CSI 300 (CHN) 3,615.67 26.92 0.75 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 176.82 0.15 0.08 SHANGHAI SE COM (CHN) 3,091.20 12.71 0.41 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2,662.10 -20.42 -0.76 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 72,210.81 -4,257.97 -5.57 ASX 200 (AUS) 7,737.06 -23.97 -0.31 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,994.15 -29.92 -0.37 FBM KLCI 1,615.40 18.72 1.17 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3,338.94 -9.93 -0.3 WTI (US$/BBL.) 72.65 -1.57 -2.12 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 76.88 -1.48 -1.89 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 2,349.50 -19.8 -0.84 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 29.93 -0.85 -2.77 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 1,008.42 -10.77 -1.06 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 458.05 -8.7 -1.8 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 10,143.00 103 1.03 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 442.25 -1.25 -0.28 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 676.5 3.75 0.56 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 44.06 -0.08 -0.18 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 9,474.00 -301 -3.08 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 174.4 -2.1 -1.19 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, June 4 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) PBBANK-C1E 0.035 -76.67 3,260 ALIBABA-C37 0.04 -73.33 100 JOE-WA 0.01 -60.00 64 HSI-HS2 0.03 -53.85 276,563 BYD-C23 0.005 -50.00 26,500 DESTINI-WB 0.005 -50.00 700 EAH 0.005 -50.00 65 LHI-C8 0.005 -50.00 1,720 MPIRE-WB 0.01 -50.00 150 SP500-H39 0.005 -50.00 2,250 XOX-PA 0.005 -50.00 5 HSI-HUT 0.09 -41.94 263,747 IOICORP-C60 0.035 -36.36 1,100 PETRONM-C11 0.045 -35.71 5,000 INARI-C2D 0.135 -34.15 20,000 BAIDU-C2 0.1 -33.33 500 FBMKLCI-HM1 0.03 -33.33 8,330 HSI-HUQ 0.01 -33.33 7,050 TALAMT 0.01 -33.33 1,207 UCHITEC-CR 0.03 -33.33 100 Top 20 Losers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) DLADY 37 +1.000 635 MPI 37.7 +0.850 2,973 PANAMY 20.56 +0.360 575 KLK 21.2 +0.340 20,508 HLFG 17.32 +0.300 4,655 SAM 6.26 +0.300 6,509 MISC 8.6 +0.260 87,275 PMETAL 5.83 +0.230 324,901 HLBANK 19.48 +0.220 7,564 SIMEPLT 4.45 +0.200 92,615 GREATEC 5.25 +0.190 8,524 VITROX 7.75 +0.170 4,209 CIMB 6.99 +0.150 226,686 ITMAX 2.42 +0.140 98,625 AEONCR 7.37 +0.130 2,726 GAMUDA 6.2 +0.130 57,677 MAYBANK 10.06 +0.130 125,693 SPRITZER 2.81 +0.130 4,355 TAKAFUL 3.91 +0.130 10,660 VSTECS 3.81 +0.130 13,780 Top 20 Gainers (By RM) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) ASTRO-C60 0.03 +100.00 41,841 HSI-HS1 0.01 +100.00 2,452 ASTRO-C61 0.035 +75.00 18,300 DIALOG-C1E 0.025 +66.67 221,375 ITMAX-CH 0.11 +57.14 5,390 BYD-C27 0.045 +50.00 210 HONGSENG 0.015 +50.00 65,091 HSI-CT2 0.015 +50.00 10,361 LHI-C10 0.015 +50.00 300 MQTECH 0.015 +50.00 382,633 DIALOG-C1M 0.105 +40.00 90,470 SIMEPLT-C21 0.07 +40.00 5,333 XOXNET 0.035 +40.00 3,833 HSI-CT4 0.09 +38.46 284,901 MISC-C48 0.18 +38.46 2,167 HSI-CTT 0.155 +34.78 50 ASTRO-C59 0.02 +33.33 500 COMPUGT 0.02 +33.33 4,127 DIALOG-C1D 0.04 +33.33 32,654 EKOVEST-C47 0.02 +33.33 108,455 Top 20 Gainers (By %) Bargain hunting leads Bursa to a strong finish BURSA Malaysia ended strongly yesterday, bouncing over 1% as bargain-hunting activities emerged following last week’s selloff, said an analyst. At 5pm, the FBM KLCI jumped 18.72 points, or 1.17%, to 1,615.40 from Friday’s close of 1,596.68. The benchmark index, which opened 0.74 of-a-point lower at 1,595.94, fluctuated between 1,595.35 and 1,617.41 throughout the trading session.On the broader market, gainers surpassed decliners 666 to 545, with 467 counters unchanged, 674 untraded and 16 others suspended. Turnover declined to 4.46 billion units worth RM3.94 billion from Fridays’s 5.45 billion units worth RM6.84 billion. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng said the FBM KLCI closed significantly higher yesterday as bargain hunting activities emerged following last week’s selloff. “Meanwhile, key regional indices finished mixed. Nonetheless, buying in technology stocks remains strong, driven by continuous high demand in artificial inteligence (AI) and related sectors, where Nvidia announced a new generation of AI chips for 2025 and a next-generation platform in development called Rubin for 2026 at a computer conference in Taiwan,” he told Bernama. Among the heavyweight stocks, Maybank added 13 sen to RM10.06, Public Bank gained 5 sen to RM4.15. and CIMB Group rallied 15 sen to RM6.99. IHH Healthcare was unchanged at RM6.19 while Tenaga Nasional Bhd dropped 6 sen to RM12.98. Among the actives, JCY International gained 7 sen to 59.5 sen, SNS Network Technology climbed 5 sen to 65.5 sen and Sealink International added 2.5 sen to 30.5 sen. MY E.G. Services and Velesto Energy were both flat at RM1.10 and 26.5 sen, respectively. 1,615.40pts June 4, 2024 Participation 20.73 39.72 39.55 100.00 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 800.23 1453.49 1684.30 3938.03 Sold RM m 832.66 1674.72 1430.64 3938.03 Net RM m -32.43 -221.23 253.66 0.00 % 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) 4/6/2024
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. SIMEPLT’s Q1’24 core net profit (excluding fair value loss of RM19 million and foreign exchange loss RM18 million) disappointed, coming in at only 22% and 17% of our full-year forecast and the full-year consensus estimate, respectively. The variance against our forecast came largely from production cost easing more slowly than our expectation. No dividend was declared as expected. YoY, its Q1’24 core net profit more than tripled on: (i) higher FFB production (by 9% as higher Malaysian production more than cushioned lower harvest in Indonesia due to dry weather while production in PNG was hit by torrential rains), (ii) lower production cost (including a higher offset from better PK prices), (iii) improved downstream earnings on strong margins in Europe, and (iv) lower tax. Meanwhile, its CPO prices realised were flattish. QoQ, its core net profit rose 28% despite seasonally weaker FFB production (-17%) thanks to better CPO prices (+5%), lower production cost (including a higher offset from better PK prices) and lower tax. Outlook. Global edible oil demand is expected to outpace supply uptick hence CY24 inventory is likely to dip below last year’s levels but remaining manageable. As such, CPO prices are likely to stay firm at around RM3,800 per MT over FY24-25. Fuel and fertiliser costs have also declined by 10%-30% lower while PK prices, which has fallen since mid-2022, has started to trend up and higher PK sales helps to lower the milling cost of CPO. Upstream harvest should also improve further as Indonesia and PNG weather normalise. We cut our FY24F net profit forecast by 3% but maintain our TP of RM4.00 and MARKET PERFORM call. SKPRES’s FY24 net profit of RM96.8 million beat our forecast and consensus estimate by 9% and 5%, respectively. The variance against our forecast came largely from better-than-expected loading volume in Q4’24. YoY, SKPRES’s FY24 revenue declined 25.9% on the back of lower orders across its product portfolio amidst weak consumer sentiment, resulting in a slump in demand for household products. Correspondingly, its core net profit fell 31%. QoQ, its Q4’24 revenue inched up 1.3% but core net profit grew by a sharper 5.3% on improved margins from internal cost control initiatives and operational efficiency boost to counter lower loading volumes. Outlook. SKPRES guided for growth to resume in FY25 on pickup in order from its existing customers (although it is still some distance away from its peak revenue of RM2.5 billion in FY23 but is certainly on the right track towards the number). Mindful of its customer concentration risk, the group has stepped up its efforts to diversify its customer base. It is in the midst of securing two new potential customers with intentions to begin production towards end-2024. Meanwhile, it will continue to work towards learner and more effective operating structure. We like SKPRES as: (i) a good proxy to an innovative premium consumer electronics brand, (ii) it has an edge over its peers given its vertical integration, and (iii) it employs an effective cost passthrough model. We lift our FY25F net profit forecast by 14%, increase our TP by 59% to RM1.35 (from RM0.85) and upgrade our call to OUTPERFORM from MARKET PERFORM. WE understand that another private placement exercise may be in store for SLVEST to fund potential LSS5 assets. We understand that SLVEST is eyeing a much bigger installed capacity under LSS5. While we are mindful about the potential earnings dilution from the new shares, we take comfort that the new equity will go into funding assets that will generate recurring incomes, strengthening SLVEST’s earnings visibility and stability over the long term. Meanwhile, SLVEST guided for full contribution from its LSS4 assets (67.3MWp) to come in FY25. SLVEST said that the award of PV system EPCC jobs under the CGPP is likely to happen this month. Recall, we project SLVEST to secure at least 30% or RM720 million of a total RM2.4 billion worth of jobs under this initiative. Currently, its outstanding order book stands at RM242 million (LSS: 3%, Rooftop: 97%) while its outstanding tender book stands at 6.1GWp (Malaysia: 66%, Regional: 34%). SLVEST shared that sales of renewable energy certificates (RECs) contributed significantly to its bottom line in FY24 (a large part of “other profits” that made up 17% of group PBT). There is a strong demand for RECs from corporations stemming from the Scope 2 emission reduction initiative. Also, data centres, in order to achieve the “green” status, could potentially become buyers for RECs. SLVEST’s RECs are competitively priced at US$5-6/MW, compared to US$10/MW of TNB’s Green Electricity Tariff (GET). We maintain our forecasts, TP of RM1.91 and OUTPERFORM rating. Risks to our call include: (i) the government dials back on RE policy, (ii) influx of new players in the solar EPCC space, intensifying competition, and (iii) escalation in project costs. FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.7530 4.6190 4.6090 1 Australian Dollar 3.2020 3.0750 3.0590 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5340 3.4310 3.4230 1 Canadian Dollar 3.4880 3.3950 3.3830 1 Euro 5.1990 5.0320 5.0120 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.9580 2.8500 2.8340 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5340 3.4310 3.4230 1 Sterling Pound 6.1040 5.9120 5.8920 1 Swiss Franc 5.3000 5.1770 5.1620 100 UAE Dirham 131.0100 124.2400 124.0400 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.1340 3.8500 3.6500 100 Chinese Renminbi 66.1100 63.3400 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.4500 65.7600 65.5600 100 Hongkong Dollar 61.4700 58.4200 58.2200 100 Indian Rupee 5.8200 5.4600 5.2600 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0303 0.0274 0.0224 100 Japanese Yen 3.0490 2.9520 2.9420 100 New Taiwan Dollar 15.8000 N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 46.7900 43.0500 42.8500 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7400 1.6300 1.4300 100 Philippine Peso 8.2200 7.7500 7.5500 100 Qatar Riyal 131.9400 125.2500 125.0500 100 Saudi Riyal 128.2300 121.7300 121.5300 100 South Africa Rand 26.6300 24.0500 23.8500 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.6200 1.4900 1.2900 100 Swedish Krona 47.1500 42.9500 42.7500 100 Thai Baht 13.5800 12.0500 11.6500 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit rises against US dollar amid market uncertainties THE ringgit closed higher against the US dollar yesterday amid market uncertainties after the US released a weaker manufacturing data for May, which raised the possibility of interest rate cuts this year. At 6pm, the ringgit improved to 4.7005/7030 versus the greenback from 4.7050/7080 at the close last Friday. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the local currency appreciated against the US dollar after the release of the Institute for Supply Management’s manufacturing index, which fell to 48.7 points in May and gave the impression that the US Federal Reserve (Fed) would cut interest rates this year. “While the ringgit was positive today, the degree of uncertainty remained high. This week there will be more data on the US employment market, especially on Friday where the nonfarm payrolls will be reported,” he told Bernama. At the close, the ringgit traded easier against a basket of major currencies. The local unit fell against the euro to 5.1099/1126 from 5.1035/1068 at last Friday’s close, slid vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.9988/6.0020 from 5.9876/9914 previously, and weakened versus the Japanese yen to 3.0293/0311 from 2.9901/9922. Similarly, the ringgit was mostly lower against its Asean peers. It decreased against the Thai baht to 12.8443/8568 from 12.7860/7994 at last Friday’s close, dropped versus the Singapore dollar to 3.4868/4889 from 3.4803/4828 at the end of last week, and slipped vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah to 289.7/290.0 previously. However, it strengthened versus the Philippine peso to 8.00/8.01 from 8.03/8.05 last Friday. Research houses ‘overweight’ on oil and gas sector KUALA LUMPUR Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) has maintained an “overweight” stance on oil and gas (O&G) sector, premised on elevated oil prices, continued production cuts from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies (Opec+), heightened geopolitical tensions and slowing oil production growth. In a note yesterday, the research house said it bodes well for local oil and gas services and equipment players with oil price hovering above US$80 per barrel, in view of buoyant upstream activities around the globe coupled with Petronas capital expenditure (capex) drive to sustain local production. “Petronas first quarter of 2024 (Q1’24) capex amounted to RM10.7 billion versus RM10.4 billion in Q1’23, which we believe will gradually ramp up in the coming quarters to total RM60 billion by end-2024,” it said. HLIB has also maintained its Brent crude oil forecast at US$85 per barrel for 2024 and 2025 with downside risks to include the reactivation of spare capacity from Opec in the near-term, higher-than-expected growth from non-Opec producers, slower-than-expected oil demand growth from China and India, and de-escalation of geopolitical conflicts. Similarly, Kenanga Research has also maintained an “overweight” stance for the sector. It continues to be positive on upstream service providers due to the expected increase in upstream capex in 2024, which coincides with the tight availability of contractors and offshore support vessels. Meanwhile, Maybank Investment Bank opined that Petronas’ domestic domestic capex will likely be higher in 2024, given a lower targeted dividend commitment of RM32 billion for 2024, and coupled with the expectation of a stable average Brent crude oil price for the year. – Bernama Solarvest Holdings Bhd Outperform. Target price: RM1.91 SKP Resources Bhd Outperform. Target price: RM1.35 Sime Darby Plantation Bhd Market Perform. Target price: RM4.00 Source: Kenanga Research Source: Kenanga Research Source: Kenanga Research June 4, 2024: RM1.61 June 4, 2024: RM1.14 June 4, 2024: RM4.45
Stylish Stylish timepieces imepieces Latest watch releases - P22 atest watch releases - P22 WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: [emailprotected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: [emailprotected] INSIDE p 23 When fashion and music collide p 24 The Tearsmith teen drama p 25 Atlas movie reviewed p 26 Fresh twist to Cinderella tale – WEEKLY 123RF PIC FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media TUESDAY Travel and leisure WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty THURSDAY Home and living FRIDAY Food and beverage SCAN ME
LYFE LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 22 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Mid-year watch releases showcase innovation and style THE evolution of wristwatch designs is a testament to the fluid nature of technology and fashion. With new materials, creative features, bold colourways and stunning collaborations, watch brands can cater to modern consumers’ diverse tastes and preferences, keeping their collections fresh and relevant in an increasingly fast-paced world. As the year’s halfway point approaches, leading watch brands reveal their latest collections, showcasing their most recent innovations. These new releases meet an extensive range of tastes and styles, offering something for everyone in the world of horology. Bonia Cristallo Collection Bonia expands its Cristallon collection with the BNB10818 series, offering five stunning colour options to suit every unique taste and style. Each model features a classic 33mm round case, beautiful crystal stones accentuated on the dial, hour markers and lavishly sprinkled on the bracelet. Crafted for comfort and elegance, these watches add a playful twist to an elegant ensemble, ensuring your wrist sparkles with timeless charm and a hint of fun. Beaubleu, Ecce Collection Beaubleu, a Parisian watch brand founded in 2017, has spent its initial years developing its identity through three signature, limited-edition collections. These collections emphasise wonder, lyricism and aesthetics, defining time with their distinctive round hands. The Ecce collection includes three standout models: Ecce Vesperal, Ecce Lys, and Ecce Smalt. Each watch in the Ecce series, with its sculpted case and signature rounded hands, reflects Beaubleu’s clean, essential design while highlighting individual personalities. Ecce departs from traditional The Bonia Cristallo Collection features a classic 33mm round case and beautiful crystal stones accentuated on the dial. oLeading brands unveil latest collections, featuring bold designs, new materials and unique collaborations █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL Beaubleu is a brand from France launched in 2017 that redefines aesthetics. The Huawei Watch Fit 3 is compatible with both iOS and Android. G-Shock and Against Lab celebrate their shared love of music with DW5600AL24. The Tissot Seastar collection is water resistance up to 30 bar (300m/1000ft). styles to offer versatility for any occasion. Featuring three artistically designed dials that blend tradition with modernity, Ecce highlights Beaubleu’s signature elements with a unique twist. Tissot Seastar 40mm Collection Swiss luxury watch brand Tissot recently announced the extension of its Seastar collection, which includes five models ideal for those looking for a sporty yet assertive accessory. These watches offer water resistance up to 30 bar (300m/1000ft) and improved visibility in low light with Super-LumiNova coated hands and hour markers. Each model showcases a vertically brushed dial that fades to black at the edges, enhancing the gradient effect. They are equipped with a unidirectional steel bezel with a colourprinted mineral glass ring. Two models have stainless-steel cases and bracelets, differing only in dial colour: one blue and one grey. The bi-colour model features a yellow gold-PVD bezel with a black ring, complemented by a bi-colour bracelet of gold-PVD and stainless steel. Additionally, two models in blackPVD coated stainless steel offer a unique look: one with a black tropic strap and blue brushed dial, the other with a grey brushed dial and an allblack metallic bracelet. The collection’s interchangeable strap system allows for easy customisation, providing versatility for various styles. The black tropical strap is a standout addition, making strap transitions effortless with a simple clip mechanism. Huawei Watch Fit 3 Huawei has announced that the Huawei Watch Fit 3 can now be purchased in Malaysia. Ideal for modern trendsetters, this stylish and versatile smartwatch caters to those looking to stay ahead in fashion, health and fitness. The Watch Fit 3 is sleek and lightweight, providing cutting-edge health and fitness tracking as well as a battery life of up to 10 days on a single charge. Fully compatible with both iOS and Android, the Huawei Watch Fit 3 ensures seamless connectivity. Users can receive notifications, send quick replies to WhatsApp messages, and accept or end Bluetooth calls directly from their wrist, making it an ideal companion for an active and stylish lifestyle. G-Shock x Against Lab Celebrating their shared love of the “universal language” of music, GShock and Against Lab have collaborated once again to present the second model in their partnership, the DW-5600AL24. This collaboration nostalgically revisits the 1970s to early 1990s, combining the iconic G-Shock DW-5600 (originally released in the 1980s) with cassette tape motifs from the same era. Influenced by the hip-hop genre, Against Lab integrates cassette tape elements into the design, such as typewriter fonts reminiscent of label stickers and tape reels, perfectly blending with the retro aesthetic of the DW-5600. The new DW-5600AL24 retains the original square face of the GShock, resembling a cassette tape. It features neon colour circular elements on a matte white base and a soundwave LED backlight for an added playful touch. Bell & Ross BR03 White Steel & Gold Paris-based watch company Bell & Ross recently unveiled the BR 03 White Steel & Gold, a sophisticated new colour variant of its flagship model. Originally launched in 2006 and redesigned in 2023 with a 41mm case, this refined edition combines the strength of steel with 18-carat rose gold. The opaline dial with luminescent pink gold hour markers and numerals ensures legibility, while the 18-carat pink gold hands fitted with Super-Luminova guarantee precise readability in the dark. Powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, it offers a 54-hour power reserve. Additionally, the brown leather strap with white stitching adds an exclusive and sophisticated touch.
LYFE LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 23 Swift, Beyonce show lucrative pop-fashion liaison S TAGE costumes have long been a way for designers to gain massive exposure – think of Madonna’s conical breasts that helped make French designer Jean Paul Gaultier a household name in the early 1990s. From Edith Piaf’s little black dress through Elton John’s whacky glasses to David Bowie’s many elaborate fashion statements – music stars have often communicated with their clothes. A pop star endorsem*nt can have an immediate impact on a brand’s bottom line. Sales of rhinestone cowboy hats increased by more than 1,600% after Beyonce wore one for her Renaissance tour, according to the Klarna payment platform. Data specialists Launchmetrics estimated that Alexander McQueen saw a US$7.7 million (RM36.1 million) boost for dressing Beyonce, while Versace sales jumped US$6.3 million thanks to Taylor Swift. Designer David Koma told Vogue that one of his dresses sold out within a day after being worn by Beyonce, and he saw a 53% increase in his Instagram followers within a month. Dsquared2 designers Dean and Dan Caten, who have also dressed “Queen B”, told the magazine: “For us, the objective is not really about sales but about image and the exposure that comes from aligning with a major artist that looks good in our clothes and fits our aesthetic.” Extreme fame Swift goes through an average of 13 outfits each night of her Eras Tour, whose European leg kicked off in Paris on May 9. These include ball gowns for the country section, sequined ensembles for the pop hits, and vaporous dresses for her forays into folk. They are courtesy of highfashion labels like Cavalli, Louboutin and Versace – though she was not always an obvious fit for them. “Luxury designers wouldn’t have been as interested in partnering with Swift because her presentation as a pop star was down-to-earth, unlike someone like Beyonce or Lady Gaga,” said Satu HameenahoSwift goes through an average of 13 outfits each night of her Eras Tour. – AFPPIC oReturn of mega-concerts since Covid-19 highlights profitable links between clothing brands and music stars Fox, author of Into the Taylor-Verse. “But the level of her fame is so extreme now, and she’s viewed as very much in the pantheon of Great American songwriters that, without ever being daring in her fashion, she’s considered almost an institution, a classy institution that any brand would benefit from being associated with.” Like everything else to do with Swift, her fans dissect every outfit for coded messages. Swifties will be eager to see how she presents songs off her new album, The Tortured Poets Department, which gets its first live performances in Paris. The 34-year-old singer adopts a Victorian gothic aesthetic in the album artwork. Intriguingly for many Swifties, in the video for new song Fortnight, she wears outfits by young US designer Elena Velez, who has stoked controversy with provocative “post-woke” stunts. “Does that mean that Swift is moving into a more kind of controversial figure space?” wondered Glenys Johnson, author of Taylor Swift: The Story of a Fashion Legend. “The lyrics from her latest album were a lot about wanting to move beyond the good-girl image she has. We Swifties are eager to see if this means Swift evolves into a more controversial figure,” Johnson added. – ETX Studio Watches belonging to F1 great Schumacher fetch millions at auction EIGHT watches belonging to Formula One legend Michael Schumacher were sold at auction in Geneva recently for a total of US$4.4 million (RM20.6 million). The German seven-time F1 world champion was a passionate watch collector until the skiing accident he suffered in December 2013, since which he has not been seen in public. Two of the timepieces sold at the Christie’s auction were personalised gifts Schumacher received from then Ferrari team principal Jean Todt to celebrate his achievements on the racing track with the Italian manufacturer. An F.P. Journe Vagabondage with a dial honouring the seven F1 world championships Schumacher won was sold for US$1.65 million. But the piece that went for the most – US$2.71 million – was a vintage pink gold Patek Philippe. “Our sincere thanks go to our consigners as well as the Schumacher family who entrusted us with the outstanding property of Schumacher. We saw strong global The piece that went for the most was a vintage pink gold Patek Philippe. – AFPPIC Schumacher was a passionate watch collector until the skiing accident he suffered in December 2013. – 123RFPIC participation, with an emphasis on America,” said the auction house’s watch specialist Remi Guillemin. – ETX Studio
LYFE LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 24 FROM the moment eight-yearold Nica is introduced, orphaned and sent to the Sunnycreek Orphanage, audiences can sense the melodrama looming on the horizon. Fast forward to her teenage years, Nica is adopted by Anna and Norman alongside the brooding and perpetually misunderstood Rigel. The film sets up a tale of torment, love and redemption, but executes it with all the subtlety of a high school talent show reenactment of Romeo and Juliet. Angst in high-definition The Tearsmith is shot with the kind of bleak, washed-out palette that screams “we are trying to be deep and meaningful.” Is zinc a powerful ally in fighting acne? ZINC is an essential trace element present in minute quantities in our bodies. Lately, it has been attracting growing interest on social networks, particularly on TikTok, where many influencers are recommending zincbased dietary supplements to treat acne and hair loss. Zinc is essential for the body to function properly, and is involved in a number of vital processes. It is found naturally in seafood (oysters, mussels, shrimps), nuts, dairy products (milk, cheese) and legumes (lentils, beans). According to Muriel Neveu, a Paris-based naturopath, zinc has antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties, which promote healing and strengthen the immune system. But online, this mineral has found itself in the spotlight thanks to a recent slew of before-and-after transformation videos showing spectacular results on acne after a taking a course of zinc. The naturopath added that zinc can be effective in fighting acne. “In the case of a person with acne, a course of zinc can take effect quite quickly. Zinc acts directly on the activity of inflammatory cells, reduces the bacteria responsible for acne, and regulates the skin’s production of sebum.” Indeed, a 2012 study reported that oral zinc supplementation may be effective against inflammatory and bacterial forms of acne. However, oral zinc supplements can cause side effects such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. That is why the naturopath advises taking care with the dosage, and above all, respecting the dosage recommended by your doctor or dermatologist. “For optimum effectiveness, the course of treatment should not exceed two months, and the maximum daily dose is around 15 mg. However, it’s important to stress that self-medication is not recommended, and a medical consultation, particularly with a dermatologist, is advisable before starting any course of dietary supplements.” Although zinc is available in pharmacies, its use should be carefully considered and limited to cases of known deficiency. “It is often recommended for people following a vegetarian diet, suffering from anorexia or intestinal absorption disorders,” explains Neveu. But how do you know if you have a zinc deficiency? “To diagnose a zinc deficiency, an oligo-nutritional assessment can be carried out. You might also notice warning signs such as loss of taste and smell, increased sensitivity to infections, hair loss, brittle nails, slow healing or reduced libido,” says the naturopath. – ETX Studio Zinc supplements are said to aid in combating acne. – 123RFPIC Twilight-esque romance The film sets up a tale of torment, love and redemption. – PICS COURTESY OF NETFLIX oAn Italian teen drama that tries too hard to be dark and brooding █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ The orphanage that tormented every kid inside of it. Nica’s gang of girls. 0 DIRECTOR: Alessandro Genovesi 0 CAST: Caterina Ferioli, Simone Baldasseroni, Sabrina Paravicini, Alessandro Bedetti E-VALUE 4 ACTING 4 PLOT 4 Director Alessandro Genovesi seems to have borrowed a page from the Twilight cinematography playbook, ensuring every scene is drenched in either perpetual twilight (pun intended) or the eerie glow of high school fluorescent lights. The emotional weight the film attempts to carry is undermined by its heavy-handed use of moody lighting and pensive stares. The high school’s Garden Day, a central plot device, feels like an event pulled from a vampire romance novel. Students exchange roses anonymously, with black roses symbolising tormented love. It is a contrived setup that feels more like a parody than a poignant plot point. Nica’s receipt of a black rose sets off a series of overly dramatic confrontations, notably with Lionel, who embodies the clichéd jealous suitor with all the grace of a pantomime villain. Simone Baldasseroni and Caterina Ferioli, playing Rigel and Nica, deliver performances that sway between wooden and overwrought. Rigel is the epitome of the troubled teen archetype, complete with seizures and a tragic backstory involving self-harm to protect Nica. It is as if the character was designed by an AI that was fed a steady diet of Y/A dystopian romance novels. Nica, on the other hand, is the damsel, torn between her past traumas and her inexplicable attraction to Rigel. Red flags Alessandro Bedetti’s Lionel is less a character and more a collection of red flags stitched together in the vague shape of a human. His advances toward Nica culminate in an attempted assault during the school dance, leading to a predictable showdown with Rigel. The film’s handling of this subplot is as ham-fisted as one might expect, lacking the nuance necessary for such heavy themes. When Rigel has a seizure and later ends up in a coma after a dramatic river escape, the film dives headfirst into soap opera territory. Margaret, the headmistress of Sunnycreek, reclaims custody of Rigel, setting up the ultimate battle between love and oppression. Nica’s decision to testify against Margaret is the turning point, underscoring the film’s clumsy attempt to convey that love and a good courtroom drama conquers all. In the end, Nica and Rigel’s love story prevails, with the couple happily married and parenting a daughter. It is a sugary sweet conclusion to a story that spent most of its runtime wallowing in gloom. The message that love conquers all is hammered home with the subtlety of a sledgehammer, leaving viewers more exasperated than inspired. The film’s earnest attempts at romance and drama are overshadowed by its unintentional humour and lack of self-awareness. For those who enjoy a good cringe-worthy love story, this might just be the perfect guilty pleasure. For everyone else, it is a reminder that not all adaptations are created equal and sometimes, love is not enough to save a sinking ship. The Tearsmith is currently streaming on Netflix.
LYFE LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 25 Korean spy thriller Tempest to debut in 2025 on Disney+ Hotstar ASSASSINATIONS, political games, conspiracies, and spies collide in 2025 when Korean thriller Tempest launches on Disney+ Hotstar. Set in modern-day Korea, Tempest follows Munju, a highly accomplished diplomat and former ambassador to the US, and Sanho, an international special agent as they race to uncover the truth behind an attack that threatens the future stability of the Korean peninsula. Featuring the eagerly anticipated on-screen partnership of two of Korea’s most accomplished actors, Tempest stars Gianna Jun (My Love from the Star, Legend of the Blue Sea) as Seo Munju, a career diplomat who turns her razor sharp intellect to uncovering the source of a lethal attack, and executive producer Gang Dongwon (Broker, Peninsula, A Violent Prosecutor) as Sanho, an enigmatic agent shrouded in a veil of secrets. Tempest is directed by Kim Heewon (Queen of Tears, Little Women, Vincenzo) and co-directed by Korea’s leading martial arts director Heo Myunghaeng (The Outlaws 4), and is written by Chung Seokyung (Decision to Leave, The Handmaiden, Little Women). Tempest is the latest Korean drama to be announced as part of the ever-growing collection of Korean storytelling now available on Disney+ Hotstar. (From left) Gianna Jun and Gang Dongwon. AI rebellion meets reluctant heroine DIRECTED by Brad Peyton, science fiction action film Atlas is about the titular protagonist who has a deep distrust of artificial intelligence (AI). In a world where AI once led a rebellion causing catastrophic destruction, Atlas finds herself hunting down the fugitive AI terrorist Harlan. The plot, which feels like it was AI-generated, unfolds with Atlas teaming up with Smith, a mech AI, to prevent Harlan from annihilating humanity. The good, the bad and the snarky Jennifer Lopez stars as the tough and determined Atlas, bringing her t r a d e m a r k intensity to the role. Simu Liu plays Harlan, the villainous AI with grand plans to save humanity from itself by nearly destroying it. Sterling K. Brown appears as Colonel Elias, a n o - n o n s e n s e military leader, while Mark Strong embodies General Jake. However, the show’s true star is Smith, the lovable and snarky AI voiced by Gregory James Cohan. Smith’s charming and witty dialogue injects much-needed humour into the film, making the AI character unexpectedly endearing. From the moment Smith introduces itself to Atlas, it becomes clear that this AI is not just another emotionless machine. With quips and a personality that feels almost human, Smith stands out as the highlight of the movie. As Atlas and Smith journey together, the AI’s snarky remarks and unexpected charm contrast the film’s otherwise serious tone. The dynamic between Atlas and Smith evolves from mistrust to mutual respect, underscoring the film’s message that even artificial beings can develop meaningful connections with humans. Mechs and mayhem Atlas delivers plenty of action-packed Atlas finds herself hunting down the fugitive AI terrorist Harlan. – PICS COURTESY OF NETFLIX oGood time-waster with a touch of sentimentality and a lovable android sidekick ▪BY YASMIN ZULRAEZ Harlan (right) and Casca go ahead with their plan despite Atlas and Smith on their tails. Atlas is currently streaming on Netflix. sequences, complete with mech battles and high-stakes chases. The film’s special effects are top-notch, bringing the futuristic setting and advanced technology to life. Watching Atlas struggle to control the mech and ultimately master it with Smith’s assistance adds a layer of tension and excitement. The climactic battle against Harlan is visually impressive, albeit somewhat predictable. Despite its action-oriented plot, Atlas offers a deeper commentary on the nature of humanity and the role of AI. Through Atlas’s journey and her evolving relationship with Smith, the film suggests that AI too can possess a sense of purpose and emotion. The revelation that Atlas once inadvertently helped Harlan gain sentience, leading to his radical conclusions about humanity, adds a poignant twist. The message is clear, we are all beings in this universe, even those we create. This theme resonates throughout the film, making it more than just a mindless action flick. Great way to kill time Atlas is best enjoyed with the mindset of it being a good time-waster. Its plot may feel formulaic and its characters somewhat stereotypical, but the film’s heart lies in the bond between Atlas and Smith. Lopez delivers a solid performance and the special effects are engaging enough to keep viewers entertained. However, it is Smith who steals the show and leaves a lasting impression. For those looking for a sci-fi action film with a touch of sentimentality and plenty of mech mayhem, Atlas fits the bill. It may not break new ground but it offers a fun, if predictable, ride that is worth the watch. Atlas is currently streaming on Netflix. 0DIRECTOR: Brad Peyton 0CAST: Jennifer Lopez, Simu Liu, Sterling K. Brown, Gregory James Cohan, Abraham Popoola E-VALUE 6 ACTING 5 PLOT 6
LYFE LYFE WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 26 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Stranger Things star shares uncomfortable episode STRANGER THINGS star Gaten Matarazzo found out at a young age that fans can be awkward and even downright creepy. The Netflix hit series lead recently appeared on Michael Rosenbaum’s Inside of You podcast and told the host about a disturbing encounter he experienced as a young teenager. “This woman in her 40s straight up said: ‘I have had a crush on you since you were 13,’ and I was like: ‘That’s upsetting!’” the now 21-yearold Matarazzo told Rosenbaum. He then explained that it was not like an elderly lady harmlessly commenting on a child’s appearance. “(I thought) like, I am sure she just Matarazzo shared an uncomfortable and akward encounter with an older female fan on a recent podcast. – PIC BY PARAMOUNT+ █ BYMARK MATHEN VICTOR meant like ‘Aw this kid’s cute’,” Matarazzo recounted. “But then she doubled down. Like, ‘I’m aware of the age difference,’ and then I was like ‘Alright.’” To then really drive how uncomfortable the experience was, he revealed that the woman’s daughter was right beside her during the entire exchange. “And her daughter goes: ‘Mom, what the xxxx?’ I swear to God, this girl must have been like 13, and she goes: ‘Mom, what the xxxx?’” The actor’s experience in being approached by a much older adult bears similarities with 31-year-old rapper Drake text messaging 14- year-old Millie Bobby Brown, who is Matarazzo’s co-star in Stranger Things back in 2018. Fresh twist on Cinderella tale UPGRADED, directed by Carlson Young, is a romantic comedy that repositions the Cinderella story to the busy, competitive world of the New York art scene. The protagonist Ana, portrayed by Camila Mendes, is an ambitious intern struggling to make her mark. When a series of unexpected events, starting with a first-class upgrade on a flight to London, catapults her into the orbit of the wealthy and charming William (Archie Renaux), Ana’s life takes a fairy tale turn. Ana’s journey through deception and romance is reminiscent of Maid in Manhattan, albeit with a fresh coat of paint and an art world backdrop. Much like Jennifer Lopez’s Marisa, Ana navigates a web of lies, mistaken Despite its predictable narrative, Upgraded succeeds as a charming, feel-good romance that delivers precisely what it promises. – PICS COURTESY OF PRIME VIDEO oA first-class fairytale with familiar comforts █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Ana’s brother-in-law shows displeasure at her staying at his house. The official poster. 0 DIRECTOR: Carlson Young 0 C A S T : Camila Mendes, Archie Renaux, Marisa Tomei, Lena Olin, Anthony Head E-VALUE 8 ACTING 10 PLOT 8 identities and the high-stakes pressures of her professional and personal lives. Despite its predictable narrative, Upgraded succeeds as a charming, feel-good romance that delivers precisely what it promises. Familiar territory The film thrives on well-trodden romantic comedy tropes. Ana’s journey from an intern to an empowered woman who finds herself and love along the way is a narrative everyone has seen before, yet it remains engaging. Mendes brings a relatable earnestness to Ana, making her struggles and triumphs feel genuine, even as the plot leans heavily on fairy tale fantasy. Renaux as William fits the role of the romantic lead perfectly. He is suave and wealthy and falls for Ana’s perceived sophistication. Their chemistry is good, and Renaux’s portrayal brings depth to William that balances the often superficial interactions their characters initially have. Supporting characters add flavour to the story, though they remain largely one-dimensional. Marisa Tomei’s Claire is the archetypal demanding boss, while Lena Olin’s Catherine, a British celebrity with a keen eye for art and character, adds a layer of elegance and wisdom to the tale. The scheming assistants Suzette (Rachel Matthews) and Renee (Fola Evans-Akingbola) serve as predictable but effective antagonists, their antics providing both humour and hurdles for Ana. Art imitates life Upgraded subtly tells the message that true beauty and value come from within, echoing the timeless moral of Cinderella. Ana’s initial missteps and deceptions serve as catalysts for her ultimate self-discovery. Her relationship with William and her eventual honesty reveal that love and success are not about the facades one maintains but about genuine connection and integrity. The art world setting symbolises the subjective nature of value and beauty. Ana’s ability to navigate this world, ultimately securing a highprofile sale by being herself, underscores the film’s message. The final act, where Ana triumphs professionally and reconciles with William, reinforces that embracing one’s true self leads to both personal and professional fulfilment. Feel-good flick Upgraded should be watched with the expectation of light-hearted enjoyment. It does not strive to reinvent the genre but rather embraces its conventions with gusto. The film’s strength lies in its ability to make viewers smile, root for the underdog and believe in the magic of love and self-discovery. From the first meeting on the plane to the dramatic confrontations and the satisfying resolution, Upgraded delivers a delightful escapade. It is a cinematic comfort food, predictable but pleasing, and sometimes that is exactly what one needs. Upgraded offers a comforting reminder that love and self-worth go hand in hand. Ana’s journey from an overlooked intern to a confident art dealer who finds love reaffirms that true beauty lies in honesty and selfacceptance. It is a modern fairy tale that, much like Maid in Manhattan, reminds audiences that every underdog has the potential for an upgrade. Upgraded is currently streaming on Prime Video.
SPORTS SPORTS WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 27 T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 SCAN ME E: [emailprotected] WEDNESDAY JUNE 5, 2024 Nortje stars for Proteas Fast bowler bounces Sri Lanka in T20 World Cup opener S OUTH AFRICA’S Anrich Nortje took a remarkable four wickets for just seven runs as the Proteas dismissed Sri Lanka for a record low 77 on their way to a sixwicket win in the teams’ T20 World Cup opener in New York yesterday. Sri Lanka’s total was their lowest in all T20 cricket, with fast bowler Nortje’s figures the best by a South African at a T20 World Cup, surpassing his own 4-10 against Bangladesh in Sydney two years ago. “It’s been a while since I’ve had those figures,” said Nortje, the player of the match, at the presentation ceremony. “Just happy to have pulled it off for the team. “We didn’t know what to expect from the pitch, we’d heard one or two rumours about being up and down,” the 30-year-old added. Kagiso Rabada (2-21) and left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who took two wickets in two balls on his way to 2-22, also damaged the cause of 2014 champions Sri Lanka. Opener Kusal Mendis (19) and veteran allrounder Angelo Mathews (16) were the only Sri Lanka batsmen to pass 15 after their captain, Wanindu Hasaranga, seemingly misread conditions by opting to bat first upon winning the toss. South Africa, however, also lost early wickets as their top order also struggled to time the ball on a drop-in pitch that is the cornerstone of a Long Island ground built specially for the tournament. But the big-hitting Heinrich Klaasen struck a six and a four off successive deliveries on his way to 19 not out as South Africa finished on 80-4 with 26 balls to spare. The difficulty both sides had in scoring runs raised fears the showpiece match between archrivals India and Pakistan – due to be played at the ground on June 9 – could become a lottery. – AFP AFGHANISTAN produced a dominant bowling and batting performance to thrash debutants Uganda by 125 runs in the T20 World Cup in Guyana yesterday. Afghanistan openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran laid the foundations for the win with an opening stand of 154 in Afghanistan’s 183-5. Left-arm seamer Fazalhaq Farooqi dazzled with five wickets for just nine runs as Uganda were skittled for 58 in 16 overs. “It was the kind of start we wanted as a team,” Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan said. “It does not matter who we play, it is about the mindset. The hard work we have done in the last few weeks, the way the openers started and the way our bowlers bowled – it was a great overall team effort.” Gurbaz and Zadran’s opening partnership was the second highest in men’s T20 World Cup history, beaten only by the 170 by England’s Jos Buttler and Alex Hales in 2022. Uganda skipper Masaba took positives from his team’s T20 World Cup debut, despite the heavy defeat. “Pretty special moment for us, hearing our national anthem and seeing our flag at the World Cup,” Masaba said. “Something I will cherish for the rest of my life. “First game at the World Cup, lot of nerves. Good to get that out of the way. We will look to come out and play better next game.” – AFP Afghanistan rout debutants Uganda WE ARE HIRING ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE / SENIOR EXECUTIVE Job Description: • Building and sustaining strong working relationship with advertising clients. • Plan and executive new, creative, exciting and innovative marketing campaigns for the company. • Develop and continuously improve marketing material, product/services presentations and proposals. • Passionate in serving client accounts to improve sales revenue. Requirement: • Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or other related fields. • At least 3 years of sales and marketing experience for senior position. • Fresh graduates are encourage to apply. • Training will be provided. • Good communication, presentation, problem-solving and organisational skills. • Possess own transport and willing to travel. • Able to start work immediately. Send in your CV with your photo via email to : [emailprotected] Office based in Petaling Jaya (5 days a week) 302 Jobs THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 SECTION 117(1) NOTICE OF PROPOSED REDUCTION OF SHARE CAPITAL WILD SORREL SDN. BHD. Registration No: 202001024328 (1380648-X) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a special resolution to reduce the share capital of the Company has been passed on 30 May 2024. The extract of the special resolution is set out below:- SPECIAL RESOLUTIONPROPOSED CAPITAL REDUCTION PURSUANT TO SECTION 117 OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 “That approval be and is hereby given for the Company to reduce the share capital of the Company from RM1,000,000 comprising of 1,000,000 ordinary shares to RM100 comprising of 100 ordinary shares by cancelling RM999,900 in the issued share capital by way of an elimination of the accumulated losses of the Company and excess of the needs of the Company, such reduction be effected by returning to the shareholders of the Company to the extent of RM1.00 per cancelled share held, payable by way of set off against the amount owed by the shareholders. That the Directors be and is hereby empowered and authorised to do all such acts, take such steps and execute all such documents in order to finalise, implement and give full effect to the Proposed Capital Reduction and assent to and accept any conditions, variations, modifications and/or amendments in any manner as may be required or imposed or permitted by the relevant authorities or as the Board may deem necessary or expedient in the best interest of the Company. EWOUT KEMNER Director 5 June 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MALAR SEGAR SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO. 199701023776 (439273-V) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the members of MALAR SEGAR SDN. BHD. duly convened and held at Unit 20-05, Level 20, Q Sentral, 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, W.P. Kuala Lumpur on Thursday, 30 May 2024 the following Special Resolution was duly passed:- THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily by way of Members’ Voluntary Winding Up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 AND THAT Agnes Wong Ling Lee (NRIC No. 720710-13-5598) of Unit 20-05, Level 20, Q Sentral, 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, 50470 Kuala Lumpur, W. P. Kuala Lumpur be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such winding up, with all the powers given by Section 456 of the Companies Act 2016. AGNES WONG LING LEE Liquidator Kuala Lumpur 30 May 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF MALAR SEGAR SDN. BHD. (REGISTRATION NO. 199701023776 (439273-V) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required, on or before the Friday, 28 June 2024, being the day for that purpose or fixed by the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company, to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims, and the names and addresses of their solicitors, if any, to the undersigned, and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, either by their solicitors or personally are to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. AGNES WONG LING LEE Liquidator Unit 20-05, Level 20, Q Sentral 2A Jalan Stesen Sentral 2 Kuala Lumpur Sentral 50470 Kuala Lumpur W.P. Kuala Lumpur 30 May 2024 PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-160-02/2024 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2014038960 (bertarikh : 30/10/2014) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Geran No. 121505, Lot 4801, Mukim 16, Daerah Seberang Perai Utara, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 14328-V) ...PLAINTIF DAN MAZLAN BIN MANSOR (No. Kad Pengenalan : 660812095003) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 8 Jun 2023 dan 9 Mei 2024, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Khamis, 20 Jun 2024, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggunqan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Geran No. 121505 No. lot : Lot 4801 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 16 / Seberang Perai Utara / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Kekal No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1302.0000000000 kaki persegi 121.0000000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : MAZLAN BIN MANSOR Syarat Nyata : Tanah yang diberimilik ini hendaklah digunakan untuk tujuan kediaman sahaja Sekatan Kepentingan : Tanah yang diberimilik ini tidak boleh dipindah milik, dicagar, pajak, pejakan kecil atau apa-apa urusniagapun tanpa kebenaran bertulis daripada Pihak Berkuasa Negeri Bebanan / Lain-Lain : Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah Rumah Teres Dua Tingkat yang beralamat pos di No. 72, Lorong Sungai Dua Utama 26, Taman Sungai Dua Utama, 13800, Butterworth, Pulau Pinang. HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 405,000.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: EMPAT RATUS LIMA RIBU SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC ISLAMIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : TOH THEAM HOCK & CO. Alamat : NO. 155, 1ST FLOOR MEDAN KIKIK SATU TAMAN INDERAWASIH, 13600, PG, MY No. Telefon : 04-3981917 No. Fax : 04-3981921 No. Rujukan : TTH/PBB/IF-95/2022/OSY/DURA 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF COMPANIES ACT, 2016 And IN THE MATTER OF DEAR GAZA SDN. BHD. [202201001356 (1447053-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING UP) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 439 of the Companies Act, 2016, that the Special Resolution set out was duly passed by the members of the Companies on 27th, day of May 2024. “THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439 of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Tan Din Sin (NRIC No.: 670326-01-6102) be and is hereby appointed Liquidator for the purpose of such winding up with all powers given by Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016.” Dated this 27th day of May 2024. Tan Din Sin Practising Company Secretary IN THE MATTER OF DEAR GAZA SDN. BHD. [202201001356 (1447053-T)] (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Creditors of the abovenamed Company, which is being voluntarily wound up, are required on or before 27th day of June 2024 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and of any security held by them, and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned liquidators at D-2-5, Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan, and if so required by notice in writing from the said liquidator, are by their solicitors or personally to come and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. Dated this 27th day of May 2024. Tan Din Sin Liquidators D-2-5, Megan Avenue 1, 189 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan. IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT GEORGETOWN IN THE STATE OF PULAU PINANG, MALAYSIA (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) WINDING UP PETITION NO.: PA-28NCC-63-05/2024 In the matter of Companies (Winding Up) Rules 1972 AND In the matter of Section 465(1)(e) & 466 of the Companies Act, 2016 AND In the matter of CYC MEGA LEISURE (M) SDN BHD (Company No. 200601011973 / 731723-M) BETWEEN DAHPAY (M) SDN BHD (Company No. 1261728-U) …PETITIONER AND CYC MEGA LEISURE (M) SDN BHD (Company No. 200601011973 / 731723-M) …RESPONDENT ADVERTIsem*nT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a Petition for the Winding-Up of the abovenamed Company by the High Court was on 2nd May 2024 presented by DAHPAY (M) SDN BHD (Company No.: 1261728-U) of A-15- 02 & A-15-03, Vertical Business Suite, Avenue 3, Bangsar South City, No. 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, the above said Petitioning Company. And that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the High Court sitting at Georgetown at 9.00 a.m. in the morning on 3rd July 2024; and any creditor or contributory of the said Company desiring to support or oppose the making of an Order on the said Petition may appear at the time of Hearing by himself or his Counsel for that purpose; and a copy of the Petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is at A-15-02 & A-15-03, Vertical Business Suite, Avenue 3, Bangsar South City, No. 8, Jalan Kerinchi, 59200 Kuala Lumpur. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is Messrs. Yeoh Shim Siow & Lay Kuan of 13A-3 & 4, Floor 13A, Tower 1, Faber Tower, Jalan Desa Bahagia, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur. Dated 5th June 2024. Signed ……………………………………….. Messrs. Yeoh Shim Siow & Lay Kuan Solicitors for the Petitioner NOTE – Any person who intends to appear on the Hearing of the said Petition must serve on or send by post to Messrs. Yeoh Shim Siow & Lay Kuan, notice in writing of his intention to do so. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm and must be signed by the person of firm, or their Solicitors (if any) and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the abovenamed solicitors not later than twelve o’clock noon of the 2nd July 2024 the working day before the day appointed for the hearing of the Petition. THIS ADVERTIsem*nT OF PETITION is filed by Messrs. Yeoh Shim Siow & Lay Kuan, solicitors for the Petitioner herein and whose address for service is at 13A-3 & 4, Floor 13A, Tower 1, Faber Tower, Jalan Desa Bahagia, Taman Desa, 58100 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 03-7971 9994 Ref: 230650/LIT/AY/CYCMEGALEISURE] 322 Notices 322 Notices PERISYTIHARAN JUALAN DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PERMOHONAN UNTUK PERLAKSANAAN NO: PA-38-276-03/2024 Dalam perkara mengenai Seksyen 256 dan 257 Kanun Tanah Negara, 1965 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Gadaian Perserahan No: 0799SC2021003546 (bertarikh : 07/01/2021) ke atas semua bahagian tanah yang dipegang di bawah Hakmilik sem*ntara No. H.S. (D) 46291, PT 43, Mukim 1, Daerah Seberang Perai Tengah, Pulau Pinang Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 83 Kaedah- Kaedah Mahkamah, 2012 ANTARA PUBLIC BANK BERHAD (No. Syarikat : 6463-H) ...PLAINTIF DAN KHO HUI PING (No. Kad Pengenalan : 930709075028) ...DEFENDAN Menurut Perintah Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di PULAU PINANG mengenai Perintah Jualan dan Perintah bertarikh 21 Mac 2023 dan 7 Mei 2024, adalah dengan ini diisytiharkan bahawa Timbalan Pendaftar/Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Pusat Operasi e-Lelong di Kuantan AKAN MENJUAL SECARA LELONG AWAM Pada Hari Isnin, 24 Jun 2024, Pada Jam 11:00 pagi, SECARA ELEKTRONIK DI LAMAN WEB e-LELONG, PUSAT OPERASI e-LELONG, KOMPLEKS MAHKAMAH KUANTAN, PAHANG DARUL MAKMUR NOTA: Bakal pembeli adalah dinasihatkan agar membuat carian Hakmilik secara rasmi di Pejabat Tanah dan memeriksa semua tanggungan, bebanan serta mengenal pasti dengan tepat hartanah tersebut sebelum jualan lelongan dijalankan. Sila layari https://elelong.kehakiman.gov.my/bidderweb BUTIR-BUTIR HAKMILIK: No. Hakmilik : Hakmilik sem*ntara No. H.S.(D) 46291 No. lot : PT 43 Mukim / Daerah / Negeri : 1 / Seberang Perai Tengah / Pulau Pinang Pegangan : Hakmilik Pajakan No. Petak/No. Tingkat/ No. Bangunan : Keluasan Tanah : 1530.0000000000 kaki persegi 142.1370000000 meter persegi Pemilik Berdaftar : Kho Hui Ping Syarat Nyata : The land hereby alienated shall be used solely for residentail purposes. Sekatan Kepentingan : The land hereby alienated shall not be sub-divided Bebanan / Lain-Lain : 1. A private caveat lodged by Public Bank Berhad registered on 27th October 2020 vide Presentation No. 0799B2020008983. 2.The subject propoerty is presently charged to Public Bank Berhad vide Presentation No. 0799SC2021003546 registered on 15th February 2021. Kawasan Rizab : Kaveat : No. Pers 0799B2020008983 Kaveat Persendirian atas Tanah oleh PUBLIC BANK BERHAD No. Syarikat: 6463- H No. 6862-6864, Jalan Bagan Jermal, Bagan Ajam, 13000 Pulau Pinang didaftarkan pada 27 Oktober 2020 Suratkuasa Wakil:0799SW2005000304 Jil 106 Fol 69 No. Mahkamah:54939/05 LOKASI DAN PERIHAL HARTANAH : Hartanah tersebut adalah An intermediate single storey terraced house yang beralamat pos di No. 80, Lorong Siakap 2, Seberang Jaya, 13700, Perai, Pulau Pinang HARGA RIZAB : Hartanah tersebut akan dijual atas “sepertimana sedia ada” tertakluk kepada satu harga rizab sebanyak RM 307,800.00 (RINGGIT MALAYSIA: TIGA RATUS TUJUH RIBU LAPAN RATUS SAHAJA) dan kepada syarat-syarat jualan yang dilampirkan. Pembida yang berminat hendaklah mendepositkan 10% daripada harga rizab dalam bentuk Bank Draf di atas nama PUBLIC BANK BERHAD 1 HARI BEKERJA sebelum tarikh lelong awam. Baki harga belian hendaklah dibayar oleh pembida yang berjaya kepada PUBLIC BANK BERHAD dalam tempoh seratus dua puluh (120) hari dari tarikh jualan. Untuk butir-butir selanjutnya, sila berhubung dengan:- Firma Guaman : WONG-CHOOI & MOHD NOR Alamat : NO. 27, 1ST FLOOR JALAN MAJU JAYA PUSAT PERNIAGAAN MAJU JAYA, 14000 BUKIT MERTAJAM, PULAU PINANG No. Telefon : 04-5398855 No. Fax : 04-5395855 No. Rujukan : WCMN(BM)/PBB-HL/2022-383/KHP(RS/j) 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF NABRUD SDN. BERHAD [199001011258 (202828-K)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at a Members’ Meeting of Nabrud Sdn. Berhad duly convened and held at Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on 1st June, 2024, the following Special Resolution was duly passed - (a) That the Company be placed in members’ voluntary winding up; (b) That Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be appointed as the Liquidator of the Company for winding-up the Company’s affairs and distributing its assets either in cash or in specie amongst the contributories; and (c) That unless caused by negligence of the Liquidator, the Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by her in the discharge of her duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. Chow Sea Thong Director Petaling Jaya 5th June, 2024 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 15th July, 2024 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the Liquidator of the said Company and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Chua Yoke Bee Liquidator Petaling Jaya 5th June, 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BIGIG SDN. BHD. REGISTRATION NO.: 201901043276 (1352606-T) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) At a General Meeting of the Company duly convened and held electronically via video conferencing at Level 5, Tower 8, Avenue 5, Horizon 2, Bangsar South City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur on 31 May 2024, the following special resolutions were duly passed: RESOLVED:- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act 2016 and that Wong Mee Kiat (NRIC No. 800429-14-5284) of No. 9, Jalan SJ16A, Taman Selayang Bahagia, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor Darul Ehsan be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator for the Company for the purpose of winding up of the Company. 2. THAT the liquidator be authorised pursuant to Section 456 of the Companies Act 2016 to exercise the powers laid down in Eleventh Schedule of the Companies Act 2016. 3. THAT the liquidator be authorised to distribute either in cash, specie or in kind any surplus assets of the Company as she thinks fit to the contributory of the Company in accordance with her respective rights and interests therein. The Board of Directors Dated this 05th day of June 2024 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BIGIG SDN. BHD. REGISTRATION NO.: 201901043276 (1352606-T) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Creditors of the abovementioned Company which is being wound up voluntarily are required, to send in their names and addresses on or before 05 July 2024, with particulars of their debts or claims and their names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to:- The Liquidator BIGIG SDN. BHD. Registration No.: 201901043276 (1352606-T) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) Level 5, Tower 8, Avenue 5, Horizon 2, Bangsar South City, 59200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, or by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. WONG MEE KIAT Liquidator Dated this 05th day of June 2024 322 Notices 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH 03 7784 8888 018 261 6626
SPORTS SPORTS WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 28 NOVAK DJOKOVIC sparked concerns about his injured knee for the rest of his French Open title defence, with the top seed saying he briefly considered pulling out midway through his five-sets win over Argentine Francisco Cerundolo on Monday. The 37-year-old had to dig deep for a second straight match after a third-round marathon against Lorenzo Musetti and needed medication during a 6-1, 5-7, 3-6, 7-5, 6-3 win over Cerundolo that sent him to the quarterfinals after four hours and 39 minutes. Djokovic said he had been experiencing slight discomfort in his right knee for a couple of weeks and the issue flared up as soon as he slipped and tweaked it during the third game of the second set. “At one point I didn’t know whether I should continue or not with what’s happening. I got the medications and then, after the third set was done, I asked for more medications and got them,” said Djokovic, who also had his knee worked on by a trainer. “That was the maximum dose that kicked in… after 30 to 45 minutes, which was about the time at the end of the fourth set, when things started to really improve for me. I started to feel less limitations in my movement. “The whole fifth set was almost without any pain, which is great. But the effect of the medications will not last for too long, so I’ll see. We’ll do some more screening and tests and checkups tomorrow, as well. “We’ve done some with the doctor now. Some positive news but also some concerns, so let’s see tomorrow. I can’t tell you more about it at the moment. I’m glad I was able to play fifth set… without feeling pain I felt for 2½ sets. But you never know what will happen tomorrow.” Djokovic, who also took a tumble late in the contest, said drier conditions after a week of rain had affected the clay. “The injury that I had today with the knee happened exactly because of that, because I slipped and slid a lot,” he added. “Everyone slides on clay, but I slipped way too many times. That is quite unusual. I do, because I have an aggressive kind of movement, dynamic change of directions. It’s normal for me. “I’ve slipped and fallen on the clay many times in my life, and on grass as well, but this was just too many times today.” Djokovic said his team were having a conversation with tournament officials about why his requests to have the courts swept more frequently were being denied. Up next for him is seventh seed Casper Ruud in a rematch of last year’s final. “Today I injured myself. I survived. I won the match. Great. But will I be able to play next one? I don’t know,” he added. “I don’t know the severity of the injury. But could have this injury be prevented? Possibly, if there was just a little bit more of frequent care of the court during the set.” – Reuters DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM NEGERI WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR (BAHAGIAN DAGANG) SAMAN PEMULA EX-PARTE NO: WA-24NCC(ARB)-37-10/2023 Dalam perkara timbang tara antara Sim Haw Wei & Teo Woei Horng dan Hon Hub Sdn Bhd (No Syarikat: 253273-T) yang diperbadankan di Malaysia Dan Dalam Perkara Award Muktamad (Final) bertarikh 7.9.2023 yang dikeluarkan oleh Penimbangtara Encik Kevin Prakash di Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, menurut Akta Timbang Tara 2005 Dan Dalam Perkara Mengenai Seksyen 38, Akta Timbang Tara 2005 Dan Dalam perkara mengenai Aturan 7 dan Aturan 69 Kaedah 3 Kaedah-Kaedah Mahkamah 2012 ANTARA HON HUB SDN BHD (NO. SYARIKAT: 253273-T) … PEMOHON DAN 1. SIM HAW WEI (NO. K/P.: 840122-10-5831) 2. TEO WOEI HORNG (NO. K/P.: 850522-01-5543) … RESPONDEN-RESPONDEN NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI BENTUK IKLAN Kepada :- 1. SIM HAW WEI (NO. K/P.: 840122-10-5831) No.6, Jalan Taman Aman Jaya 3, Taman Aman Jaya,45400 Sekinchan,Selangor. 2. TEO WOEI HORNG (NO. K/P.: 850522-01-5543) No.117, Bukit Kangkar, Sungai Mati, 84400 Muar, Johor. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu perintah bertarikh 18.4.2024 telah dimasukkan terhadap kamu sebagai Responden Pertama dan Kedua ATAS PERMOHONAN pihak Pemohon yang dinamakan di atas DAN SETELAH MEMBACA Saman Pemula (Kandungan 1) bertarikh 23 Oktober 2023 dan kesemuanya yang difailkan di sini DAN SETELAH MENDENGAR Chew Jia Ying Peguamcara bagi pihak Pemohon dan tanpa kehadiran pihak Responden-Responden MAKA ADALAH PADA HARI INI DIPERINTAHKAN bahawa:- (1) Menurut seksyen 38 Akta Timbang Tara 2005, bahawa Award Muktamad (Final) bertarikh 7 September 2023 (“Award” tersebut) (seperti di Annexure A) yang dikeluarkan oleh Penimbangtara Encik Kevin Prakash di Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia mengikut Akta Timbang Tara 2005 diiktiraf sebagai terikat dan dilaksanakan dengan dimasukkan sebagai penghakiman terhadap Responden di Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya, mengikut terma-terma Award tersebut; (2) Berikutan dengan permohonan (1), Pemohon diberi kebebasan untuk merakamkan penghakiman terhadap Responden mengikut terma-terma berikut; (a) Responden hendaklah membayar kepada Pemohon sebanyak RM 139,878.11 dalam tempoh tiga puluh (30) hari dari tarikh Award Muktamad; (b) Responden membayar kepada Pemohon faedah ke atas jumlah yang diaward iaitu RM 139,878.11 di perenggan (a) di atas, pada kadar 5% setahun dari tarikh Award Muktamad hingga penyelesaian penuh; (3) Kos permohonan dan atau apa jua penghakiman atau perintah yang mungkin akan dimasukkan dibawah ini dibayar oleh Responden kepada Pemohon; (4) Responden diberi kebebasan untuk memohon untuk menolak (“set aside”) perintah memberi kebenaran untuk melaksanakan Award tersebut dalam tempoh empat belas (14) hari setelah penyerahan dibuat keatas Responden sekiranya Responden mempunyai alasan untuk berbuat sedemikian. DAN TELAH DIPERINTAHKAN melalui Perintah (Kandungan 17) bertarikh 27.5.2024 bahawa Pemohon dibenarkan menyampaikan Perintah Kandungan 1 yang dimeterai bertarikh 18 April 2024 keatas Responden Pertama dan Responden Kedua yang dinamakan di atas secara penyampaian ganti iaitu dengan cara menampalkan sesalinan Perintah Kandungan 1 yang dimeterai bertarikh 18 April 2024 di atas alamat terakhir Responden Pertama yang diketahui iaitu di No.6, Jalan Taman Aman Jaya 3, Taman Aman Jaya, 45400 Sekinchan, Selangor DAN menampalkan sesalinan Perintah Kandungan 1 yang dimeterai bertarikh 18 April 2024 di atas alamat terakhir Responden Kedua yang diketahui iaitu di No.117, Bukit Kangkar, Sungai Mati, 84400 Muar, Johor DAN pengiklanan sekali dalam satu (1) akhbar harian tempatan “The Sun Daily” DAN menampalkan sesalinan Perintah Kandungan 1 yang dimeterai bertarikh 18 April 2024 di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi di Kuala Lumpur dan bahawa penampalan dan pengiklanan Perintah Kandungan 1 yang dimeterai bertarikh 18 April 2024 hendaklah disifatkan sebagai penyampaian sempurna dan cukup keatas Responden-Responden selama tujuh (7) hari dari tarikh penampalan dan pengiklanan dan kos bagi permohonan ini hendaklah menjadi kos dalam kausa. Bertarikh pada 27 haribulan Mei 2024 t.t ……………………………… Tetuan Rajesh, Chew & Ho Peguamcara bagi Pemohon NOTIS PENYAMPAIAN GANTI BENTUK IKLAN ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Rajesh, Chew & Ho, peguambela dan peguamcara bagi pihak Pemohon yang beralamat di Suite-1, No. 21, Jalan Abdullah, Off Jalan Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur. [Tel: 012-9399034] [Emel: [emailprotected]] [Ruj: 5028/2023/RCH/LIT] 322 Notices DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN, MALAYSIA (BAHAGIAN KELUARGA) PETISYEN PERCERAIAN NO.: WA-33-165-04/2024 Dalam Perkara Seksyen 53 dan 54 (1) (b) Akta Membaharui Undang-Undang (Perkahwinan dan Perceraian) 1976 ANTARA WOO CHUNG MIEN (P) (NO. K/P: 830718-12-5850) … PEMPETISYEN DAN SHANON LEE WEN LOONG (NO. K/P: 821006-10-6067) … RESPONDEN NOTIS Kepada: SHANON LEE WEN LOONG 28, Lorong Batu Milan, 13J, Bukit Tinggi, 41200 Klang, Selangor. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Tinggi Kuala Lumpur dalam Guaman WA33-165-04/2024 oleh Pempetisyen yang beralamat di Pacific Place G-13-16, Jalan PJU 1a/4,47301 Ara Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Selangor yang mana tuntutan Pempetisyen adalah seperti berikut: 1. Bahawa perkahwinan tersebut dibubarkan di bawah Seksyen 53, Akta Membaharui Undang-Undang (Perkahwinan dan Perceraian) 1976; 2. Bahawa WOO CHUNG MIEN (P) diberi hak penjagaan, jagaan, pemeliharaan dan kawalan (guardianship, custodianship, care and control) secara tunggal terhadap SHAREESE LEE ZHI XUEN (No Sijil Kelahiran: CR 99169) (“Anak”); 3. Bahawa WOO CHUNG MIEN (P) bertanggungjawab untuk menanggung dan membayar kesemua perbelanjaan (termasuk tetapi tidak terhad kepada perbelanjaan seharian, pembiayaan pendidikan dan kesihatan) untuk Anak tersebut secara tunggal sehingga Anak tersebut mencapai umur 18 tahun atau menamatkan pengajiannya di tahap universiti/kolej, yang mana lebih kemudian 4. Bahawa SHANON LEE WEN LOONG diberi akses munasabah (tidak termasuk akses bermalam) dengan Anak tersebut sekiranya mendapat persetujuan daripada WOO CHUNG MIEN (P) sekurangkurangnya tiga (3) hari sebelum akses dijalankan; 5. Bahawa Pempetisyen dan Responden tidak membuat apaapa tuntutan antara satu sama lain; 6. Bahawa kos guaman ini boleh ditanggung oleh Pempetisyen sahaja; dan 7. Lain-lain relif yang disifatkan adil dan sesuai oleh Mahkamah Yang Mulia ini. Jika kamu ingkar apa-apa kehadiran yang demikian maka suatu penghakiman boleh dibuat terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada .................................................. PEGUAMCARA BAGI PEMPETISYEN NOTIS ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Low & Partners, Peguamcara bagi Pempetisyen yang mempunyai alamat penyampaiannya di No.5, Jalan SS 21/23, Damansara Utama, Petaling Jaya, 47400, Selangor Darul Ehsan. Tel No. : 03 – 7729 5293 Fax No. : 03 – 7729 5298 Ruj. Kami : LP/DV/10236 Injury stricken Joker Djokovic unsure about French Open quarterfinals after hurting knee Minaur roared on by superfan overcomes Medvedev ALEX DE MINAUR was roared on by his young superfan as he upset Daniil Medvedev to reach his first French Open quarterfinal. The Australian had launched an appeal on social media to find the boy who had cheered every point he won throughout his raininterrupted third-round win over Jan-Lennard Struff. And the boy was given a front row seat on Court Suzanne Lenglen to watch his hero reach the last eight after a 4-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-3 victory. “He’s managed a miracle. I might have to get him on tour week in, week out,” said the 11th seed. “No, we found him obviously through the beautiful world of social media, we ended up finding him. We got him to the match. He came with his whole crew, with his mates and his coach. It was great to see him out there. “Again, even on that big court, I could hear him after every single point. It’s a distinctive voice, so it’s great to see. “He’ll be around. I think he’ll be chilling with me tomorrow in my practice day and of course he’ll be there for the very next match.” It was a tough afternoon for, who took the first set handily but needed lengthy treatment on a horrible-looking blister on his foot in the second. Medvedev refused to blame the issue for his defeat, though. He said: “No, not at all. I had a blister, it didn’t help me to call the physio, but I had a blister that got a little irritated so needed to take care of it. “No, Alex played better. To be honest, I’m disappointed to lose, but I don’t have anything to tell myself in a tough way like I was not, I don’t know, good attitude today or I was not fighting till the end. “I did all of this. He played better. My best was not enough today, so looking forward to next ones.” The night session provided another late finish as fourth seed Alexander Zverev edged out Danish youngster Holger Rune 4-6, 6-1, 5- 7, 7-6 (2), 6-2 to book a last-eight meeting with De Minaur. – The Independent ARYNA SABALENKA continued to power her way through the French Open draw by pummelling Emma Navarro to reach the quarterfinals. The big-hitting Belarusian won 6-2, 6-3 and has now dropped only 18 games over her four matches. Having won the Australian Open, Sabalenka’s record at grand slams this year now reads 11-0, and she has not lost a single set across those 11 matches. American Navarro had beaten Sabalenka at Indian Wells in March, but she was up against it from the start at Roland Garros. She was broken in the first game of the match, and the second seed wrapped up another comprehensive victory in an hour and nine minutes. For the first time since last Saturday, the sun was out in Paris and the roof was open on Court Philippe Chatrier. Sabalenka said: “With the sun out it is definitely more positive. We had a difficult few days last week with the weather, but now the roof is open with beautiful conditions. “It was a little windy, but I was myself and tried to do my best. “It was a tough battle. I went into it wanting to fight for every point. I expected long rallies. I had to fight to get the win. “She is a tough opponent, but I am happy to get through the match.” Sabalenka will face 17-year-old Russian Mirra Andreeva, who ended French hopes for another year with a 7-5, 6-2 win over Varvara Gracheva. With former Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina also progressing, it means the top four seeds are all in the last eight. Such is their form, it would take something of a major surprise for Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff and Rybakina not to make up the semifinal line-up. Fourth seed Rybakina had a tricky looking fourth-round match against Elina Svitolina, but was largely untroubled in a 6-4, 6-3 victory. The 24-year-old from Kazakhstan has not exactly been renowned for her sunny disposition this week, but she said: “It’s nice to have good weather finally and play without the roof. “The ball flies a bit more – but I think everyone enjoys good weather.” Rybakina will face Jasmine Paolini, the 12th seed from Italy who is in her first grand slam quarterfinal. Paolini came from a set down to beat unseeded Russian Elina Avanesyan 4-6, 6-0, 6-1. – The Independent Sabalenka joins fellow big guns at RG quarters █ BY ANDY SIMS █ BY ANDY SIMS Swiatek, Gauff through to last four IGA SWIATEK took another stride towards a third successive French Open title yesterday as she swept into the semifinals with a 6-0, 6-2 rout of Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova. World No. 1 Swiatek, bidding for a fourth Roland Garros crown in five years, will play US Open champion and third seed Coco Gauff for a place in Saturday’s final. Earlier, Gauff came back from a set down to defeat Ons Jabeur and reach her second French Open semifinal yesterday. Gauff, a former Roland Garros runnerup, rallied to win 4-6, 6-2, 6-3 on Court Philippe Chatrier. “She’s a tough opponent and she’s well loved on tour and I could tell by the crowd you guys wanted her to win. When I’m not playing, I do too,” Gauff told the crowd, who had largely been cheering on Jabeur. “I like playing in atmospheres like this. I know you wanted her to win but even when I was in the bathroom, I was thinking this is really fun, win or lose.” It will be American star Gauff’s third successive Grand Slam semifinal, after also making the last four at this year’s Australian Open. Tunisian eighth seed Jabeur is still waiting for a maiden major title, having lost three finals and four quarterfinals. “Today I was trying to be aggressive towards the end and I got a little bit tight on the couple of match points but I think I did what I needed to do to win the match,” she added. Gauff has lost 10 of her previous 11 meetings with Swiatek, all in straight sets, including in each of the two previous French Opens. – AFP Iga Swiatek plays a backhand return to Marketa Vondrousova (not pictured) during their women’s singles quarterfinal match. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 29 GERMANY were held to a 0-0 draw by Ukraine as the European Championship hosts lacked a cutting edge at a sold out Max-Morlock stadium in Nuremberg. More than 44,000 fans were in jovial mood at kickoff, expecting a Germany that have rediscovered their form under Julian Nagelsmann put on a show less than two weeks before they start Euro 2024 against Scotland in Munich on June 14. What Germany’s supporters got was something quite different, as Nagelsmann’s side dominated long periods and created many chances but failed to make the breakthrough against a resilient Ukraine. “I had the impression that the team wanted to win and we played very well for long stretches,” Nagelsmann told German public broadcaster Das Erste. “The first 20 minutes of the game were very, very good. We had to take the lead then. “I think we need to be even more aggressive. “We simply need to get more players into the box and put a bit more stress not their penalty area. The players we brought on didn’t need any time to get into the game, they all did well,” the 36- year-old added. Germany came into this game having turned a corner under Nagelsmann, winning their last two games against France and the Netherlands with an aggressive, high tempo style and sparking optimism that, with home advantage, this European Championship could be a successful one. Nagelsmann was without Real Madrid’s Toni Kroos and Antonio Ruediger, both rested after winning the Champions League final as well as Borussia Dortmund pair Nico Schlotterbeck and Niclas Fuellkrug. Brighton midfielder Pascal Gross deputised for Kroos admirably, pulling the strings alongside Bayer L e v e r k u s e n ’s Robert Andrich, and Germany were relatively comfortable at the back, as Stuttgart’s Waldemar Anton enjoyed an assured full debut alongside Jonathan Tah. It was rather in attack where Germany laboured, lacking a cutting edge – despite the impact of Nagelsmann’s subs. Arsenal’s Kai Havertz was isolated at times and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, whose every touch sent a buzz of excitement around the stadium, failed to get going before his withdrawal at half time. Germany’s best first half chance fell to Ilkay Guendogan, who mistimed his jump as he attempted to meet a teasing cross by Gross. The closest Germany came was on the hour, when Maximilian Beier, who had come off the bench a minute earlier, rattled the inside of the post with a first-time shot from Andrich’s perfect through ball. Thomas Muller, a second half substitute himself, praised the impact of the 21-year-old Hoffenheim forward who has been linked with a move to the Premier League. “It was perfectly done by Maxi Beier,” Muller said. “You just need that little bit of luck but it came off the very corner of the post. “I initially thought it was a goal and he would have deserved it. “Not winning is not so great but, well, maybe it was a good lift for the tournament,” he added. The Ukrainians, who qualified for their fourth straight Euro with a playoff victory over Iceland in March, will be buoyed by denying the tournament hosts on home soil as they look to come through a group that also includes Romania, Slovakia and Belgium. While several aspects of the performance will have pleased Nagelsmann, it was a result that poses some questions ahead of Germany’s final warmup game against Greece in Monchengladbach on June 7. – AFP Friendly stalemate Germany held by Ukraine in Euro warm-up Shotgun shooters reload to lead Kuwaiti challenge in Paris THE most powerful Kuwaiti in the history of sport might be serving a 15-year Olympic ban but the Gulf country still hopes to make its mark at the Paris Games with shotguns, sabres and a single-handed dinghy. Sheikh Ahmad al-Fahad al-Sabah, the longtime Olympic Council of Asia president and once one of the most influential people in the sporting world, received the lengthy ban in May for breaches of International Olympic Committee (IOC) ethics policies. The reason for the ban was government interference, the result of attempts by other members of Kuwait’s ruling family to exert control over Sheikh Ahmad’s sporting fiefdoms. All five of the Olympic medals won by Kuwaitis have come with the help of a shotgun and it is again to the traps and skeet range that the country will be looking for medal success in Paris. Mohamed Al-Daihani will make his Olympic debut at the age of 40 and follow in the footsteps of his father Nayef, who competed in the skeet at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. After qualifying for the Games by taking third place in skeet at the Asian Championships in January, he paid tribute to Aldeehani and twice Olympic bronze medallist Abdullah Al-Rashidi. Another shooter, former world champion Khaled Al Mudhaf, booked qualification for the Games by finishing third at the world championships in Azerbaijan last year. This year there is much excitement surrounding Ameena Shah, who has qualified for the Olympic regatta in Marseille in a first not only for Kuwait but all Gulf countries. “I am very happy with this historic achievement, it is the first time that Kuwait has qualified for the Olympics in the sport of sailing,” Shah, who will compete in the single-handed dinghy, told the Kuwait News Agency. “I am proud to be the first Kuwaiti woman and the first Gulf woman to achieve this.” Yousef Al-Shamlan also made a bit of history for the country when he qualified for the men’s sabre in March. “This is a huge moment for Kuwaiti fencing,” said Hamad AlAwadhi of the Kuwaiti Fencing Federation. – Reuters SCOTLAND’S Liam Cooper suffered a Euro 2024 injury scare as the Leeds defender limped off in a 2-0 friendly win against Gibraltar yesterday. Cooper sustained the knee problem in the closing stages of Scotland’s penultimate match before the European Championship gets underway. Scotland boss Steve Clarke will hope the 32-year-old can recover in time for the tournament, which kicks off with his side facing hosts Germany in Munich on June 14. “Initial thoughts are it’s just a knee-toknee bang, so he should be fine,” Clarke said. “We’ll see how he is in the morning. He’s a tough man.” Cooper’s injury wasn’t the only worry for Clarke as Scotland laboured to kill off minnows Gibraltar at the largely-deserted Estadio Algarve in Portugal. Clarke fielded an experimental line-up and it took second-half goals from Ryan Christie and Che Adams to spare Scotland’s blushes. “Performance-wise, the amount of chances we created in the game, it was enough to score more than two goals,” Clarke said. “The grass was really sticky. It was a different surface. It certainly wasn’t a night for dribblers. “We could tighten up a little bit with the chances we created but we got two goals, a clean sheet and we won the game so we move forward nice and positive.” The Scots host Finland on Saturday (2.45am Malaysian time) in their last warmup before heading to Germany for just their second major tournament in 26 years. Scotland hardly impressed against a Gibraltar team ranked 203rd in the world, who have now lost 13 in a row and conceded 50 goals in the process. Clarke is pondering whether to call up a replacement for Lyndon Dykes after the QPR striker was ruled out of Euro 2024 with an ankle injury. Yet Lawrence Shankland did little to press his case to replace Dykes at the tournament with a subdued display, while fellow forward James Forrest struggled on his first Scotland start since 2021. – AFP Scotland’s Cooper suffers Euro injury scare SHORTS Inter CEO Marotta takes over as club president INTER MILAN’S sporting CEO Giuseppe Marotta will take over as the Serie A champions’ new president on Tuesday after being put forward by the Italian club’s new US owners Oaktree. Marotta, considered the architect of Inter’s recent return to football’s top table, will replace outgoing president Steven Zhang following a shareholders’ meeting in Milan today, in which a new board will also be appointed. Oaktree took control of Inter last month, days after the club were officially crowned kings of Italy for a 20th time, when previous owners Suning failed to repay a three-year loan which matured at €395 million (RM2 billion). “I would like to thank Oaktree for the trust they have shown in giving me this opportunity to work alongside them and the Board,” said Marotta in a statement. “This appointment is an acknowledgement of the fantastic work of the many people who have run the Club over the last three years.” Marotta joined Inter in 2018 as head of football operations under Suning and Zhang. Since then, Inter have won two Serie A titles, two Italian Cups, three Italian Super Cups and reached the final of both the Champions League and Europa League. The 67-year-old was previously CEO at Juventus for a trophy-laden eight years. ‘Trailblazers’ to spearhead Australia at Olympics AUSTRALIA named an 18-member women’s football squad “full of trailblazers and record-breakers” yesterday in their pursuit of gold at the Paris Olympics next month. Arsenal defender Steph Catley will captain the side in the absence of superstar striker Sam Kerr, who had already been ruled out of the Games because of a serious knee injury. The Matildas finished fourth at the last Games in Tokyo and again at their home World Cup in 2023. Real Madrid’s Hayley Raso and Everton’s Clare Wheeler were on target as Australia beat Asian champions China 2-0 in front of 76,798 fans Monday in their final home match before Paris. Arsenal striker Caitlin Foord did not play because of injury, but along with Raso and Wheeler was named in Tony Gustavsson’s squad for the Games in the French capital, which begin on July 26. Eight of the squad, including Catley and vicecaptains Emily Van Egmond and Ellie Carpenter, will become the first Australian footballers to compete at three Olympics. “This team is already full of trailblazers and recordbreakers,” said Australia’s chef de mission Anna Meares. Gustavsson’s side are in a tough group with Germany, Zambia and the United States, who defeated the Australians to win bronze in Tokyo. “This has been an incredibly challenging squad to select with so many quality players competing fiercely for limited spots,” said the Swede. – AFP Germany’s Jamal Musiala (centre) in action with Ukraine’s Illia Zabarnyi (left) and Yukhym Konoplia (right). – REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 30 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Happy with the Blues Maresca calls coaching Chelsea ‘a dream’ after joining on five-year deal ENZO MARESCA said it was “a dream” to have been appointed Chelsea head coach after he was given a five-year contract to succeed Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge. Describing his excitement at being handed the task of steering the next phase in owners Clearlake Capital’s rebuild of the club, he pointed to the “talented group of players and staff” that he will lead when he officially becomes the third permanent managerial appointment of the Todd Boehly era on July 1. It is the 44-year-old’s first job in charge of a senior top-flight side and comes after he masterminded Leicester’s return to the Premier League in his first and only season at the King Power Stadium. “To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach,” the former Manchester City U-23 coach said in a statement. “It is why I am so excited by this opportunity. “I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.” It was the Italian’s experience working at City, where he also assisted Pep Guardiola during the Treble-winning season of 2022/23, that in part persuaded Chelsea that Maresca was their man, ahead of a pack that also included Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna and outgoing Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi. The winning mentality he instilled at Leicester as they swept to the Championship title is also understood to have been a factor in the unanimous decision reached by the board and co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, who led an exhaustive search. “We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea,” said the pair. “He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style. “Enzo has deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment. His ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club. We thoroughly look forward to working with him.” Maresca, whose deal comes with an option for a further year, is eager to meet with Chelsea’s squad at the earliest opportunity in order to impart his plans for the team, with the balance and composition of the club’s e x p e n s i v e l y a s s e m b l e d - y e t inexperienced side having been a key factor in persuading him to take the job. D e s p i t e currently being on holiday he has already begun the task of analysing the team’s matches from last season, and has requested that a data room be set up to analyse the performances of first-team and academy players. Seeking to establish himself quickly, he is understood to have sought out details on every member of staff at the club’s Cobham training ground. A priority for the hierarchy was to make an appointment that would fit their model of working, in which a head coach sits within a wider set-up where work is delegated and remits strictly defined. Maresca’s willingness to work within a system that prioritises data is one of the aspects of his style that sets him apart from Pochettino, who wanted a more traditional role with more say over issues such as player recruitment and backroom appointments. There has been a positive response amongst the squad to the appointment, with feedback from other players to have worked with him being encouraging. His coaching and communication skills are amongst the attributes to have been spoken of favourably. – The Independent Sancho says danke to Dortmund as United future in the air JADON SANCHO has bid farewell to Borussia Dortmund ahead of his return to Manchester United this summer. The England winger faces an uncertain future having been banished by the Red Devils in September last year. Sancho shone in a half-season spell at Dortmund, from whom he had been signed by United in a £70 million (RM420m) deal in 2021. But he returned after being exiled from Erik ten Hag’s first-team squad after a disagreement with the Dutchman early in the 2023-24 season. The 24-year-old helped Dortmund reach the Champions League final, although they were beaten 2-0 by Real Madrid in Saturday’s final at Wembley. Sancho has now paid tribute to the Bundesliga side and their staff as he prepares to go back to Old Trafford. “What a crazy 6 months @bvb09,” the winger wrote on X. “We win together we lose together, these moments only make us stronger! I’m so grateful to be apart of such an amazing group of players! “I want to congratulate Real Madrid on winning the Champions League. We came up short on the night, but we should be super proud of ourselves. “We are a family and these moments won’t break us! Thank you to everybody who came out to support us on such a special day! @BVB. “I want to thank everyone involved at such an amazing club. I can’t thank you enough for welcoming me back the way you all have during these last 6 months. “Finally a special thank you to the BVB fans. Your support is amazing and I’m forever thankful for you all!” The former Manchester City prospect will now return to United, where he could continue to remain exiled from the senior squad. Ten Hag’s own future is up in the air after disappointing Premier League and Champions League campaigns. – Express Newspapers THERE was a time when la decima was an obsession; around a decade, fittingly. But the man who earned Real Madrid their long-awaited 10th Champions League also won the 15th and they will start next season as the favourites for a 16th. Carlo Ancelotti’s trio of triumphs have sandwiched a Zinedine Zidane hat-trick and, just as they did between 1956 and 1966, Real have won six of the last 11 finals. Which, even for a club of their size, of their wealth and with the calibre of players they have had in the last 10 years, is astonishing. It is worth remembering that, when Real’s modern-day golden age began, they had come to seem like Spain’s second force. Barcelona tended to win La Liga. The dominant philosophy in the global game was Pep Guardiola’s. Barcelona had Lionel Messi, not merely an even greater talent than Cristiano Ronaldo but two years his junior. If anyone seemed likely to win the Champions League six times in 11 seasons, it was Barca. Instead, the roll of honour from 2014 onwards shows Real with six, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City with one apiece. Real have been the great dynasty, with constants like Dani Carvajal and Luka Modric but now showing they can win without Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale, minus Ronaldo and Sergio Ramos but with a much newer generation like Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham thinking Champions League titles are Real’s regal right. But viewed in isolation, there were reasons to think that at least three of the other recent winners could have repeated the feat. Barcelona had Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez, perhaps the finest forward line then ever assembled, in 2015. Bayern Munich won every Champions League game, the 8-2 against Barcelona famously emphatically, in 2019-20. City pulled off their own treble in 2022-23. None backed up their European glory; while it is too soon to say Guardiola’s City team will not reach such heights again, recent history suggests that only Real are capable of sustaining it. Real spent big on the best young talents in Europe, in Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, while getting an astonishing bargain in Fede Valverde and picking up smart free transfers in Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba. They have used the allure of Real Madrid adeptly; Kylian Mbappe and Alphonso Davies may prove other cases in point. The siren call of Real can prove irresistible. And if Bayern in 2020 looked like a team capable of dominating, they instead became an illustration that sometimes a team has a sweet spot, a year or two, like Liverpool’s peak under Jurgen Klopp. Except Real’s has lasted 11 seasons. It has been quixotic. They can trail in any tie and prevail. Put them in a final and they win it. – The Independent Real’s 15th Champions League title just the start █ BY ROBERT O’CONNOR █ BY RICHARD JOLLY Four things Enzo must do to succeed at the Bridge DESPITE a positive end to the season that saw Chelsea nick a place in the Europa Conference League, the removal of Mauricio Pochettino as manager to be replaced by Enzo Maresca has thrown yet more uncertainty over a club coming off two hugely turbulent years. Here’s a look at the in-tray for Chelsea’s incoming head coach. Win over the squad The dismissal of Pochettino caused surprise and dismay amongst the squad as communicated via various players’ social media channels, and in removing the Argentinian the club has lost a coach known for his popularity, man management and skill at working with young players. The 52-yearold had seemed the perfect fit for communicating with and getting the best out of a callow, inexperienced squad, many of whom were adjusting to living abroad for the first time, and Maresca will need to prove himself equally capable on a personal level if he is to keep the team on their current upward trajectory. Get Caicedo and Fernandez playing together Given the record-breaking sums the club paid to acquire them, the midfield pair of Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez are the nearest thing to undroppable, but it was only once the Argentina World Cup winner was ruled out for the season run-in with a groin problem that his Ecuadorian partner started to thrive. With Conor Gallagher playing next to him, Caicedo looked far more like the player Chelsea parted with £115m (RM690m) in order to sign from Brighton, as the team closed out the season with five consecutive wins. Finding a way of getting the best out of the club’s two most expensive buys when side by side will be high on Maresca’s list of priorities. Tighten up the defence Under Pochettino the team conceded more goals than during any season in the Premier League era, and whilst they scored more than in any campaign since they were last champions in 2017 – even outscoring Jose Mourinho’s champions of 2015 – there is a limit to what can realistically be achieved with such a porous defence. While injuries meant the manager was rarely able to field a settled back four, the departure of the team’s most experienced defender in Thiago Silva is only likely to add to the potential for chaos at the back next term. Identify the team’s leaders With Silva having moved back to Brazil, it will not be easy for the incoming coach to pick out an obvious leadership core within the current squad. Captain Reece James made limited appearances last season due to injury, as did vice-captain Ben Chilwell, and neither are known for being overly vocal on the pitch. Gallagher wore the armband for much of the season but could yet be sold as the club look to balance the books, leaving a young group that too often looked around for guidance during tougher moments of a difficult campaign and found it lacking. The Independent █ BY ROBERT O’CONNOR Newly appointed Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. – AFPPIX
SPORTS SPORTS WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 31 LIVERPOOL and Brazil goalkeeper Alisson, 31, has been identified by the Saudi Pro League as one of their main targets for this summer. ASTON VILLA look set to complete a £5m (RM30m) deal to sign England midfielder Ross Barkley, 30, from Luton Town. ARSENAL will reluctantly let England international Eddie Nketiah, 25, leave the club, with Fulham prepared to offer around £30m (RM180) for the forward, who is also interesting Crystal Palace, Wolves and Everton. THE Gunners are also open to offers for Ukraine leftback Oleksandr Zinchenko, 27, who has been linked with Bayern Munich. LEEDS’ Dutch winger Crysencio Summerville has emerged as a £30m (RM180m) transfer target for Liverpool. SUNDERLAND are determined not to sell England youth international Jobe Bellingham, 18, with Tottenham, Brentford and Crystal Palace all keen on the midfielder. MANCHESTER UNITED and Liverpool are monitoring Sporting Lisbon and Portugal centreback Goncalo Inacio, 22. REAL MADRID have decided to exercise their option to sign Spain forward Joselu, 34, on a permanent transfer from Espanyol. LIVERPOOL are plotting to sign a new defensive midfielder, with Japan international Wataru Endo, 31, viewed only as a stop-gap player. BORUSSIA DORTMUND do not have first option to buy on-loan Dutch defender Ian Maatsen, 22, with Chelsea’s £35m (RM210m) release clause open to any clubs interested in the 22-year-old leftback. AC MILAN have lined up Lille boss Paulo Fonseca, 51, to replace the departing Stefano Pioli as their manager for next season. BURNLEY have made contact with former West Ham, Newcastle and Crystal Palace boss Alan Pardew as they start the search for a permanent successor to Vincent Kompany. MANCHESTER UNITED are set to lose English midfielder Omari Forson this summer after the 19-year-old turned down the club’s final contract offer. ENGLAND winger Jadon Sancho (below), 24, will push for a permanent move back to Dortmund from Man United this summer. Ziyad yearning for gold NATIONAL para athlete Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli is still yearning for a paralympic gold medal after he was “denied” as the medal winner at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. In the episode, the 34-year-old athlete was classified as Did Not Start (DNS) following a protest by the Ukrainian team who claimed the shot putter was late reporting to the waiting room before the competition. Describing himself at his best level compared to eight years ago when he first won the gold medal in the Rio 2016 edition, Ziyad is now confident of bringing the gold medal back to Malaysian soil at the four-yearly Games in the Paris 2024 edition. “It’s been a long wait because it was bronze in 2012, gold in 2016, the drama in 2021, and in 2024 God willing, I will put up my best performance because I’m not young anymore (but) competing with young people. I want to prove that age is not a deterrent as long as we put in the efforts. “Earlier, if you can do 16.5m or more, you can feel free, now even 17m doesn’t determine winning gold (at the Paralympics). In fact, my Asian record of 17.43m does not determine the gold medal, so I have to go 17.8m or further,” he said. But Ziyad expects fierce competition from athletes from other countries such as Ukraine, France and Turkey at the Paris Paralympics. Ziyad previously won the men’s shot put event F20 (intellectual record) at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Kobe, Japan with a throw of 17.43m. Even sweeter, the throw at the Kobe Universiade Memorial Stadium saw him better his own Asian record of 17.29m at the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships in London. Ziyad’s participation in the Rio 2016 Paralympics previously saw him record a throw of 16.84m to bring home the gold medal for Malaysia. But the controversy at Tokyo 2022 saw the Ukrainian athlete, Maksym Koval announced as the gold winner with a throw of 17.34m thus breaking Muhammad Ziyad’s world record of 17.29m which was done at the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships in London. The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will take place from Aug 28 to Sept 8. – Bernama Greiving Azimuddin determined to play in Poland after father’s passing DESPITE receiving the devastating news of his father’s death yesterday, national hockey player Azimuddin Syakir Kamaruddin is determined to continue playing in the ongoing Nations Cup in Poland. This was confirmed by the Malaysian Hockey Confederation (MHC), who notified Azimuddin of the death of his father, Kamaruddin Misman, in Kluang, Johor this morning. The MHC said Azimuddin decided to continue playing for the national team in Poland as it would take him up to 30 hours to return to Malaysia, adding that the player and his family have agreed to it. “(MHC) president Datuk Seri Subahan Kamal, the MHC Executive Board members and staff would like to express their condolences to Azimuddin on the demise of his beloved father, Kamaruddin Misman, early this morning in Kluang, Johor. “The late Kamaruddin, better known as Wak Din in the national sports arena, was the Johor state youth head coach under the National Hockey Development Programme (NHDP) from 2019 until his demise,” the MHC said. According to the MHC, Kamaruddin was the assistant coach for the national women’s indoor hockey team who emerged as champions in the 2019 SEA Games in the Philippines. The Nations Cup began on Friday (May 31) and ends on Sunday (June 9). In the May 31-June 9 Nations Cup competition, the Malaysian team, also known as the Speedy Tigers, began their Group B campaign with a 4-4 draw with Pakistan before going down 3-1 to France on Monday. The Speedy Tigers will wrap up their group fixtures against Canada today. The tournament features two groups, with five teams in Group A (New Zealand, Poland, Austria, South Africa and South Korea) while Group B comprises four teams. The third and fourth-placed teams from each group will play in the fifth-eighth classification matches. The semi-finals will be on Saturday (June 8) and the final on Sunday (June 9). The Nations Cup winner will get to compete in the FIH Hockey Pro League. – Bernama WITH the absence of some leading forwards in Harimau Malaya due to injuries, young striker Muhammad Haqimi Azim Rosli is ready to be fielded against Kyrgyzstan in the Group D action of the second round of the 2026 World Cup/2027 Asian Cup Qualifiers on June 6. The Kuala Lumpur (KL) City FC striker said the absence of Darren Lok, Muhammad Syafiq Ahmad and Romel Morales opened up an opportunity for him and other strikers to be called by chief coach Kim Pan Gon to show their lethal touch in the rest of the competition. “We have many other players who can play for the number nine jersey (main striker) including Paulo Josue. But if given the chance I will definitely do my best. “I also want to prove 100 per cent on the field that I can play in the position (nine) jersey,” he said before departing for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan from Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 yesterday. The 21-year-old player wants to continue to repay the trust given after a positive outing with Pan Gon for the first time in the 2022 AFF Cup when he scored the first goal against Laos and also created an assist. After facing Kyrgyzstan at Dolen Omurzakov Stadium, Bishkek, Malaysia, who are in third place in Group D with six points, will meet Taiwan in the final match at the National Stadium, Bukit Jalil here on June 11. Kyrgyzstan currently lead Group D competition followed by Oman in second place, with nine points each. The two teams will meet in the final group game on June 11, with Taiwan trailing with no points. The national team needs three points in the final two games, as Oman hopes to defeat Kyrgyzstan to brighten its historic chances of qualifying for the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, as well as early qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup. – Bernama TOUCHLINES Muhammad Haqimi ready for top striker role Former national badminton coach Guan Chong dies at 87 FORMER national men’s doubles coach Lee Guan Chong passed away at a hospital in Bangsar yesterday. He was 87. Eric Lee said his father died of old age, leaving behind three children. “My father died at the Pantai Hospital in Bangsar due to old age at 7.52am. My father was active as a coach at the Royal Lake Club and Bukit Kiara here before retiring in 2017. “Our family is discussing the preparations for his cremation, which will be done in Petaling Jaya,” he said when contacted by Bernama yesterday. Meanwhile, former national shuttler and coach Datuk James Selvaraj, who used to be coached by Guan Chong, described the coach’s demise as a huge loss for the national sports fraternity. He described Guan Chong as an assertive coach who passed on all his knowledge to the national team during their preparation for the 1975 and 1976 editions of the Thomas Cup Finals. “The coach (Guan Chong) guided the men’s doubles squad in 1975 and 1976 and, at that time, I was playing men’s doubles with Moo Foot Lian while the other combination was Dominic Soong-Cheah Hong Chong. “He was very strict to ensure we achieved the best result possible, but he was very nice with us (players) back then,” he said. Guan Chong was the national men’s doubles coach for the 1975 and 1976 editions of the Thomas Cup Finals and, in the 1976 Finals, the national team won silver after losing 9-0 to Indonesia in the final. – Bernama Shot putter missed medal after Tokyo Paralympics fiasco National shot put athlete Muhammad Ziyad Zolkefli. – BERNAMAPIX
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 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2625 Email: [emailprotected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Email: [emailprotected] SCAN ME WEDNESDAY | JUNE 5, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper Injury stricken Joker -Story on page 29 -Story on page 28 Friendly stalemate Perfect warm-up Southgate takes plenty of positives from England’s penultimate match before Euros GARETH SOUTHGATE took plenty of positives from the way England came through their penultimate European Championship warm-up friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Euro 2020 runners-up are among the favourites to become kings of the continent this summer and in the midst of a 10-day training camp featuring two friendlies. Newcastle’s St James’ Park hosted the first of those matches and witnessed a 3- 0 victory, with Cole Palmer marking his first start with a maiden international goal. Trent Alexander-Arnold added to that spot-kick by scoring an outstanding volley and substitute Harry Kane’s late effort completed the scoring as attention turns to Friday (Sat 2.45am Malaysian time). England welcome Iceland to Wembley that evening and then Southgate has to confirm who makes the cut as he whittles his 33-strong training squad to a final 26-man selection for Germany. Asked if he thought it would be a difficult decision, the manager said: “Yeah, of course. “It’s a decision that we understand the significance of for all of the players, so we’re giving it the respect and consideration it deserves, really, to make fair, right decisions. “Of course it’s always going to be subjective and we’ve got to balance what we need in every area of the pitch as well, so that’s the added complication. “It’s not just getting the best individuals in. There’s a positional element to that as well. “But we’ve got really good options and I think we’ve come through tonight without any physical issues, which was really, really important. “Some players needed the game, they needed the minutes and they need the minutes again on Friday. “That’s why we brought Harry Kane on. He needed some match time today and then to back that up. “We’re spinning a lot of plates trying to get individuals into things, manage minutes, perform well and everything else but I think today was a good night for us.” Southgate was pleased by the physical test Bosnia provided, so too the opportunity to practice breaking down a back five – something he expects to face in the group stage. The England boss believes the final “scoreline reflected the performance” on an evening when some individuals impressed. “I think there were numerous good ones,” he said. “Clearly, I would imagine Eberechi (Eze) has caught the eye with the way he started the game and the way he glides past people and the power that he shows. “I thought Conor Gallagher’s was an important performance for us, given how important Declan Rice’s role is. “I think Conor’s work with the ball has improved. We know what he can do without the ball, but I thought he played with real maturity tonight. “Then a first goal for Cole Palmer. I thought Adam Wharton (who came on for his debut) also showed what he’s been doing at the end of the season and in training. “He sees pictures early, he can play forward. It’s obviously very early for him but lovely that he looked as comfortable as he did. “So, a team that didn’t have a lot of caps on the field when we started, but I think it showed the way that we work that people feel comfortable in an England shirt pretty quickly and that was lovely to see.” Alexander-Arnold has not always looked that comfortable wearing the Three Lions shirt but impressed when deployed in midfield. The Liverpool man had reverted to a more familiar rightback role when he scored his superb volley and Southgate believes he can flourish in both roles for England. “Could be either,” he said. “I think in a game like tonight, we felt there was going to be more space where his quality at fullback could help us. “That’s something against a wingback system that could definitely be helpful. “I think in midfield of course he’s still really learning and discovering the role, so it’s positionally at times going to be different for him.” – The Independent █ BY SIMON PEACH Bosnia’s Nikola Katic (left) in action with England’s Harry Kane during a friendly match at St James’ Park yesterday. – REUTERSPIX -Story on page 30 Happy with the Blues
