KUALA LUMPUR: Online businesses have seen a surge in activity in the past few years, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic when people were forced to remain at home due to the movement control order. However, accompanying increased orders, online vendors have also been hit by a new phenomenon called “joy buyers”, those who order products using the COD (cash on delivery) option but reject the items upon arrival, just for fun. In 2023, Malaysia eCommerce Statistics and Trends reported the number of Malaysians buying goods through the internet had grown 10.2% in 2021 to hit 14.43 million. Statistics on the number of transactions made by joy buyers are unavailable as such matters are usually not reported to the authorities, several vendors told theSun. Online cakes and pastries seller Nadia Bakthiar, 37, said: “As more businesses shift their operations online, the competition is becoming fiercer, and the race to stand out in the crowded marketplace has become more challenging than ever. “Once orders are ready to be sent, I will confirm with customers who prefer the COD payment method and the delivery details. Many of the customers promise to make payment upon receiving their orders. “Almost every week, I will receive four to five orders returned by food delivery riders. I lost almost RM2,500 from 38 orders rejected by joy buyers during the Hari Raya festival. The losses include cost of raw ingredients, helpers’ wages and tips for delivery riders.” Nadia said the efforts of business owners like her become pointless when joy buyers order for fun and reject the goods upon delivery. A part-time student selling clothing, Shalaeni Poobalan, 24, said she struggles to deal with joy buyers as she finds ways to provide the same level of customer experience one can get from brick-and-mortar textile stores. “Despite advances in technology, it can be challenging to replicate the in-store experience that many customers crave. Customers cannot touch and feel the products before making an online purchase, leading some to hesitate before completing their COD payments. “The COD concept is becoming popular among consumers as it gives them additional time to fund the full payment. Returning the parcels without providing proper reasons is affecting vendors like me.” Shalaeni said customers should be responsible for their decision to buy online, adding that it would alleviate pressure on online business vendors who are just trying to make a living. Lawyer Joshua K.M. Wu from P.E. Lim Advocates and Solicitors said: “If joy buyers are returning goods fraudulently or dishonestly,, vendors can lodge a police report. “Whoever by deceiving any person – whether or not such deception was the sole or main inducement – fraudulently or dishonestly induces the person so deceived to deliver any property to any person, commits a crime of cheating under Section 415(a) of the Penal Code.” However, Wu said it would not amount to cheating if a buyer genuinely rejects the goods. “Online shopping platforms could bear the cost of shipping to mitigate the issues that arise oShoppers who order products on COD for fun only to reject them upon delivery causing losses, inconvenience to sellers █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [emailprotected] TELLING IT AS IT IS ON FRIDAY MAY 26, 2023 No. 8276 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my PREMIER GREETINGS ... Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh meeting athletes who took part in the recent 2023 SEA Games, at the Parliament Building yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC INSIDE RM1.6b required to implement cooking oil scheme Overcoming ‘world of darkness and gloom’ 2 page 3 page Joy buyer bane from joy buying, or disable or ban the COD payment method for individuals or accounts that regularly or show a pattern of rejecting goods that are to be paid via COD. Turn to — page 5
2 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS RM1.6 billion to implement cooking oil scheme KUALA LUMPUR: A total of RM1.6 billion is needed for the implementation of the Cooking Oil Stabilisation Scheme (COSS) this year, according to Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Fuziah Salleh. She said the updated allocation amount is based on the policy of providing a total of 60,000 tonnes or about 60 million packets of 1kg cooking oil. “In general, the amount of allocation or funds for the subsidised cooking oil is based on the movement of the crude palm oil (CPO) price. Therefore, if there is an increase in CPO prices, the funds needed to implement the programme will also increase. “The allocation, that has been updated to implement COSS in oUpdated allocation amount based on policy of providing 60 million 1kg packets according to movement in CPO prices, says minister ALL SYSTEMS GO ... The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah getting a feel of a fighter jet co*ckpit at the Lima exhibition yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC 2022, is about RM2.42 billion in additional subsidies, while for 2023 the amount (allocation) required is estimated at RM1.6 billion and subject to the movement of the CPO price,” she said. Fuziah was replying to a question from Lim Lip Eng (PH-Kepong), who asked about the amount of funds and capacity of subsidised cooking oil approved in 2022 and 2023 as well as the names of the companies that were given the approval, during the question-andanswer session at the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. Fuziah said previously, the amount of allocation announced through the Budget for the implementation of COSS was about RM400 million for 2022 and RM500 million for 2023, Bernama reported. Touching on the provision of subsidised cooking oil, she said the ministry has appointed 366 packaging companies nationwide to supply subsidised cooking oil to the market. To a supplementary question from Datuk Rosol Wahid (PN-Hulu Terengganu) regarding the delay in payment of claims demanded by the packers, which affected the supply of cooking oil in the market, Fuziah said the ministry had taken proactive steps by introducing the ECOSS system to overcome the issue. “This digital system needs to register all refineries, repackers, wholesalers and retailers so that we can regulate the entire supply chain. So the previous situation involving false claims will no longer happen. “So this process takes a little time and that is one of the reasons for the delay, but the problem has been resolved and Insya-Allah there will be no more payment delays in the future.” Drop in number of hardcore poor over last five months KUALA LUMPUR: The number of households in the hardcore poor category has decreased from 124,744 to 118,217 from Dec 15, 2022 to May 15, the Dewan Rakyat was told yesterday. Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib said according to the eKasih dynamic data managed by the implementation coordination unit under the Prime Minister’s Department, the number of registered household heads in the poor category also dropped from 304,911 to 299,080 during the same period. She also said that based on the Household Income, Expenditure and Basic Amenities Survey Report 2019, the incidence of absolute poverty was 5.6%, while hardcore poverty was 0.4%. “DOSM (Statistics Department) is finalising the findings of the 2022 survey, which are expected to be published in the third quarter of 2023,” she said during the questionand-answer session at the Dewan Rakyat sitting yesterday. She was replying to a question from Mohd Syahir Che Sulaiman (PN-Bachok) about the progress the government has made in reducing the poverty rate and eliminating hardcore poverty over the last six months. Hanifah Hajar said the country’s labour market has also improved since the country entered the transition to endemic phase of Covid-19 as the unemployment rate for March 2023 dropped to 3.5% compared with 5.3% in May 2020. Strong economic growth in 2022 has helped support recovery in the labour market, she added. Furthermore, she said the government is implementing various intervention measures to address poverty, some of which have been announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the tabling of Budget 2023. Among the measures announced are the Rahmah Cash Aid to about nine million recipients, with an allocation of about RM8 billion, various subsidies to padi farmers and smallholders, and the unity package prepaid mobile internet plan. Hanifah Hajar said as of May 22, a total of 82,892 participants have registered for the People’s Income Initiative, which focuses on empowering the B40 group, and RM750 million has been allocated for the purpose this year. – Bernama Ministry takes serious view of ‘sick projects’ LANGKAWI: The Communications and Digital Ministry is taking a serious view of its development projects categorised as “sick” because they could not be completed on schedule. Minister Fahmi Fadzil said there are currently two sick projects under the ministry – construction of the Langkawi RTM building and the Bintulu RTM building in Sarawak. “To me and the ministry, we view seriously any projects which have been given allocations and issued with letters of acceptance but could not be implemented. “This project in Langkawi is one of the two sick projects under the ministry and I will try to visit the project site of the other one in Bintulu later,” he said after inspecting the project site for the Langkawi RTM building in Kampung Buluh Penyumpit, Kuah, here yesterday. He said the Langkawi project should have been completed on Sept 19 last year but had to be re-tendered after the contractor failed to implement it despite being given three extensions. He said the ministry and the Public Works Department finally terminated the contractor’s contract in April this year and would undertake a fresh tender process to appoint a new contractor. “Site works are expected to begin once the project has been tendered out again. We expect the Langkawi RTM project to resume in October or November this year and to be completed about two years later by October 2025.” – Bernama Discuss ‘Allah’ issue privately: Anwar SHAH ALAM: The issue relating to the use of the word “Allah” by non-Muslims should not be discussed openly to the extent of causing confusion among Muslims, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. He also reiterated that the government’s decision to withdraw its appeal in the court case relating to the use of the word “Allah” was made after seeking the views of the muftis and referring to the decrees of the Malay rulers. He said the matter has been repeatedly explained before, including in Parliament. “Meaning that only the Muslims in Peninsular Malaysia can use the word ‘Allah’ to avoid confusion and problems with other religions. So, non-Muslims in the peninsula are not allowed (to use the word). But for Sabah and Sarawak, there are some relaxations with restrictions (for non-Muslims to use it) so as not to cause confusion. “The issue can be discussed and debated, but only behind closed doors. It should not be done openly and confuse the people. However, we are still being accused of betraying the people’s trust,” he said. – Bernama Journalists granted privilege to deliver sermons IPOH: Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah has consented to honour journalists and media practitioners in the state by allowing them to deliver the Friday sermon at several mosques in Perak today, in conjunction with the National Journalists Day (Hawana) on May 29. Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini, in a statement yesterday, said the consent was given as a recognition of the important roles played by the group for the country. “His Highness decreed that the Friday sermon in Perak on May 26 be delivered with a theme Kewartawanan: Menyempurnakan Tugas Berlandaskan Nilai-nilai Islam (Journalism: Accomplishing Tasks Based on Islamic Values). His Highness has consented to honour media practitioners by allowing them to deliver the Friday sermon in mosques in Perak today.” Mohd Annuar said the Sultan also consented to the three names proposed by the Perak Broadcasting Department and Perak Media Practitioners Association to receive temporary accreditation to deliver the sermon. – Bernama M’sian students helping in pilgrimage activities MADINAH: About 60 Malaysian students who are continuing their studies at the Islamic University of Madinah have been engaged by Tabung Haji to become muzawwir (guides) to help out in the pilgrimage activities by Malaysian pilgrims here. A muzawwir will be allocated for each pilgrim bus to explain the history of Madinah and places they visit such as the Quba Mosque and the battlefield of Uhud. Saudi Arabian Malaysian Students Association Madinah branch (Persada) deputy head Ukail Ahmad Sanif, 26, said the involvement of Islamic University of Madinah students is to englighten pilgrims on the pilgrimage. “We bring the story from a different angle, we tell the correct and authentic sirah facts and at the same time use those facts to make us closer to Allah SWT,” he said when met by reporters here. – Bernama
3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 PETALING JAYA: In times of desperation when even close connections cannot be of assistance, seeking medical help might be the only option to save one from the brink of death, said author Salim Ashedoff, also known as Salim Satori. Depression is so Painful, which he wrote and published last year, is about his experience struggling through depression and how he survived. Salim said most people who go through depression will only have one thought, which is to be rid of their pain. “I had this voice in my head constantly telling me to escape from the pain I felt and do something for relief. The pain was not physical, so people couldn’t understand what I was going through. “It was an excruciating torture that continued for a long time. And, when one couldn’t handle it anymore, he would go for the best solution he could think of, which was suicide,” he told theSun. Salim said the funny thing is, people with depression don’t realise they are going through it. “When the movement control order (MCO) was implemented during the Covid-19 pandemic, I was devastated because, as the sole breadwinner in my family, I couldn’t provide them with much. “As a corporate trainer, I couldn’t do my job and the devastation turned into hopelessness, trepidation and fear. “It came to a point that I had panic attacks at 4.30am daily. I couldn’t sleep well, I was sullen and I felt down all the time, and constantly had arguments with my wife and nine-year-old daughter. “Finally, I couldn’t take the pain anymore and went to a clinic accompanied by my wife. Only then I found out I was suffering from the critical stage of depression.” Salim said depression is like being consumed with something dark and gloomy with no way of escape. Depression is not about feeling sad because when you are sad, you can feel it. Even during the day, I felt like I was in a dark blank space and in a gloomy world where only I existed. I didn’t notice anyone or anything around me. “However, while going through this episode, I came to realise who were my true friends and relatives. “Some will not be there for you during the difficult times and I learned that the hard way.” Salim said his book is the story of a common man experiencing depression and is written in a way that could be understood by everyone. “There are numerous articles and books about depression. However, it is not spoken loud enough, as if it is a taboo subject. “My book serves to create awareness and act as support for those who are experiencing the same thing as I did. “I want them to know that help is available, and that there will be someone who would empathise and understand what they are going through.” Salim said he hesitated about publishing his book. “When my friend, Gobinathan Manickam, suggested that I write about my experience, I just said okay. “I was still in the process of recovery, so dark thoughts sometimes put a pause on my initiative to publish the book. “Books that I read as a young boy gave me the confidence and drive to make my publication a reality. “This book is not about earning money. It’s about the painful depression that millions experience each year and is told from my first-hand point of view. “I hope it will create awareness and be of help to those who suspect that a loved one is suffering from depression, and others who are struggling with it.” Army to recruit Perlis varsity students LANGKAWI: The 504th Regiment of the Territorial Army aims to recruit 330 new members from public and private higher education institutions in Perlis every year. Regent of Perlis Brig-Jen Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail said the effort was part of the regiment’s initiative to develop the country’s military reserve force. “The 504th Regiment set this target after signing the memorandum of agreement (MoA) with 11 institutions in Perlis,” the commander said after witnessing the signing ceremony. The institutions involved are Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Islamic University College of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Polytechnic and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Perlis. Deputy commander Lt-Kol Lasahi Laiji signed the MoA on behalf of the Territorial Army. Representing the institutions were UniMAP vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Zaliman Sauli, UiTM Perlis senior lecturer Dr Khairul Afendy Hashim, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Polytechnic director Maj (Honorary) Abdul Malek Hassan and Islamic University College of Perlis rector Prof Dr Muhamad Rozaimi Ramle. Also present was the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Maj (Honorary) Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil. Tuanku Syed Faizuddin said the regiment aims to recruit 30 students from each institution annually. The plan would be implemented through three phases of collaboration, namely with public education institutions (first phase), government and private agencies (second phase) and village development and security committees and mosque committee members (third phase). “This effort is in line with the Territorial Army Strategic Plan 2022-2030 to achieve 80,000 voluntary recruitment by 2025,” he said. Tuanku Syed Faizuddin and Tuanku Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah are in Langkawi for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023. – Bernama Overcoming ‘world of darkness and gloom’ oAuthor expresses painful experiences during period of depression, advises those affected to seek medical help Low carbon emission vans soon for Pangkor IPOH: The previous plan to use electric vans to replace pink vans on Pangkor Island has been changed to low carbon emission vans, which is still in the implementation stage, the Perak State Assembly was told yesterday. State Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin said the Perak State Development Corporation, through its subsidiary Majuperak Holdings Berhad, had carried out a feasibility study and found that support for low carbon emission vans was higher than for electric vans. “This project is in the final stage where the State Executive Council would give its decision and policy approval for the project implementation,” he said at a question-andanswer session at the assembly’s sitting at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan here. Mohammad Nizar was replying to Norhaslinda Zakaria (PN-Pangkor) who wanted to know the status of the initiative to replace taxis on Pangkor Island with electric vehicles, which was announced in June last year with an allocation of RM10 million. Mohammad Nizar said in July 2020, the federal government had allocated RM12 million to supply electric scooters and electric vans for the purpose of promoting Pangkor Island as a “Green and Sustainable Tourism Island”. Of the amount, RM2 million was allocated for the supply of electric scooters and RM10 million for electric vans, he said. However, the State Economic Planning Unit decided to use the entire fund for the supply of electric vans. “Later, the then Pangkor assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir proposed to change the plan for electric vans to low carbon emission vans during the first meeting of the fifth session of the 14th state assembly of Perak Darul Ridzuan,” he said. – Bernama Amanah VP elected senator for Perak IPOH: The Perak State Legislative Assembly yesterday elected Amanah vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Mujahid Yusof as a new senator to represent the state. His name was proposed by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad to fill a vacant seat in the Dewan Negara for Perak following Datuk Iskandar Dzulkarnain Abdul Khalid relinquishing his senatorship in November 2022. Perak State Assembly Speaker Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid said only one candidate’s name was submitted to the assembly’s secretary by the May 15 nomination deadline. “The name of the senator elected by the assembly will be submitted as soon as possible to the office of the secretary of the Dewan Negara for further action,” he said at the assembly sitting at Bangunan Perak Darul Ridzuan. – Bernama █ BYTHARANI NAIR [emailprotected] Matta fair targets RM15 million in sales IPOH: The Perak chapter of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) aims to generate RM15 million in sales through its three-day Matta Fair from July 21. Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association president Law Weng Sum expects the Matta Fair at the Ipoh Parade shopping complex to attract over 20,000 visitors compared with 19,000 last year. “State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee is expected to attend the fair on the first day. A total of 61 exhibition booths are available, involving flight ticket packages, hotels, travel agencies and theme parks,” he said yesterday. – Bernama GOOD OFFERS .... Consumers buying chicken at an Agro Madani Sale in Putrajaya yesterday. The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry aims to implement 900 such programmes nationwide involving about 13,000 traders. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN
4 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME No need to issue daily Covid numbers: MMA chief PETALING JAYA: It is almost impossible to determine the exact number of active Covid-19 cases as a large number of people have stopped reporting infections on the MySejahtera app, said Malaysian Medical Association president Dr Muruga Raj Rajathurai. He said Covid-19 is as normal today as the common flu, as most cases are mild and people are recovering at home, adding that there is no need to issue daily updates on the number of cases. “Moreover, Covid-19 cases will go up from time to time. This is to be expected because many cases are not being reported on the MySejahtera app. But the number of severe cases needing hospitalisation continues to be monitored by the Health Ministry, so there is oInfection now as normal as common flu, with most cases not even reported on MySejahtera app █ BY RAJVINDER SINGH [emailprotected] Telco to sponsor Special Olympics team PETALING JAYA: U Mobile has announced that it is the main sponsor of the Special Olympics Malaysia team. The initiative is in line with the telco’s drive to celebrate the spirit of Malaysians, such as the Special Olympics athletes. U Mobile’s sponsorship will contribute towards sending 39 delegates, consisting of 16 athletes, six Unified partners, 12 coaches, four officials and one healthcare professional to Berlin for the Special Olympics World Games, which will take place from June 17 to 25. The Malaysian athletes will be competing against 7,000 others from 190 countries in six events, namely swimming, bowling, bocce, badminton, athletics and table tennis. As it is important for the delegates to stay connected, U Mobile will also be providing all team members with U Postpaid subscriptions. The contingent will be able to use benefits such as ultra-fast 5G or 4G data and free global roaming when they are away for training or competitions, be it locally or abroad. In addition, the athletes will be enjoying the U Mobile experience with a new 5G device. To mark its patronage, a handover ceremony was held at the telco’s corporate office in Berjaya Times Square on Wednesday. During the ceremony, U Mobile chief marketing officer Navin Manian took the opportunity to mention that the initiative was a natural fit in the telco’s own quest to bring out the “unbeatable” in everyone. “U Mobile is very delighted to be the main sponsor for the Special Olympics Malaysia team that will be participating in the upcoming Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. “This year’s theme for the Special Olympics is #UnbeatableTogether and U Mobile is a strong believer in that ethos. “We also hope that this partnership will help raise awareness of our Special Olympics athletes and foster inclusion. “In the spirit of that, we wish Team Malaysia a great time competing at the Games this year as we will definitely be rooting for them.” no need for panic.” Muruga Raj was commenting on questions on social media on why the Health Ministry was not issuing daily Covid-19 bulletins. “There has been more than enough awareness on steps to take to prevent contracting Covid-19. Everyone knows the drill ... wear masks in public, wash your hands regularly, use sanitisers and generally be careful of your hygiene.” Muruga Raj said what is important is to ensure those with comorbidities and in the high risk category remain protected. He advised the public to use face masks when in the presence of such people. As of May 25, the total number of reported Covid-19 cases stood at 19,122, with 18,367 involving home quarantine, 721 requiring hospitalisation and nine that were in the intensive care unit. Universiti Malaya professor of Epidemiology and Public Health Dr Sanjay Rampal said the weekly reporting of Covid-19 figures is good enough and the estimates are more precise and stable compared with daily reporting. He said this is part of the long-term strategy to deal with the virus and it is better to have accurate figures, adding that like it or not, the public has to live with Covid-19. “It is the duty of the Health Ministry, which has a very important role to play in the fight against Covid-19, while hospitals play a critical role in treating Covid-19 patients. “Hospital staff have a better understanding of how to deal with acute Covid-19 cases. There are also better medicines and vaccines coming for the treatment of Covid-19.” If a person falls ill, he should check if he has Covid-19 and visit a doctor if his condition gets worse. “As the majority of people have taken the Covid-19 vaccine, it has become less infectious and those who get it are less likely to spread it. “The idea of wearing a mask when speaking to someone who has had Covid-19 and has returned to work is not necessary, even the World Health Organisation does not promote the wearing of face masks anymore. “There is no real need for the public to wear masks as the benefits are hardly there. Community transmission is very low and wearing masks are no longer cost-effective.” He added that it is important for every individual to assess their health and be cautious if they feel unwell. Sanjay said older people or those with comorbidities can take additional vaccine doses for enhanced Covid-19 protection, adding that self-determination is the best way to deal with infections at the moment. Vegetables, fruits in short suply in 2021 PUTRAJAYA: Vegetables and fruits such as chili, ginger, cabbage, mango and coconut did not reach the 100% self-sufficiency ratio (SSR) for the year 2021, said Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. He said the vegetables and fruits that failed to make the grade include chillies, which stood at 29.3%, ginger which was at 14.6%, cabbages which stood at 40.3%, mangoes at 16.2% and coconuts, which were at 69.6%. He said policies for the food crops sub-sector would prioritise increasing the output of these and other food items that have yet to reach the 100% SSR to guarantee the country’s food security. “Food production needs has to be improved because the SSR for 2021 shows that there are still some vegetables and fruits that have not yet reached the 100% ratio,” he said in his speech at the opening of the Malaysian Agro-Food Crop Subsector Investment Seminar, which was read out by Agriculture and Food Security Deputy Minister Chan Foong Hin. Mohamad said the balance of trade in the agriculture sector for foodstuff in 2021 recorded a deficit of RM25 billion, with exports at RM39 billion and imports at RM64 billion. Statistics show that Malaysia is still dependent on the import of food items such as vegetables, fruits of moderate and cold climates, as well as animal feed to meet domestic needs. “The high dependence on imported food needs to be minimised in an effort to enhance food security and stabilise supply prices.” He said in Budget 2023, the government extended tax incentives for food production projects until the end of 2025. – Bernama Better connectivity for Orang Asli community KUANTAN: Over 600 villagers in Kampung Orang Asli Kuala Boh, Cameron Highlands will enjoy better communications and internet coverage when the telecommunications tower in the village is fully operational come this July. State Communications and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and NGO Committee chairman Fadzli Mohamad Kamal said the tower, built by Edotco Group Sdn Bhd, was handed over to telecommunications company CelcomDigi Berhad (CelcomDigi) yesterday. “CelomDigi is the company appointed to carry out further work, which includes the installation of electronic equipment, fibre optic connection and electricity supply, and the activation of 4G services.” The unsatisfactory internet and 4G services in the village had captured the attention of Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah during His Majesty’s visit there in January. For the time being, Fadzli said Measat is providing 4G services on an interim basis using satellite technology to meet the needs of the villagers until the tower is fully operational. – Bernama S’wak to plan grand Gawai Dayak event KUCHING: Sarawak is expected to organise a grand 2023 Gawai Dayak Celebration themed “Together in Unity”, that will include a Gawai Parade and Gawai Dayak Bazaar next month. State Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the Gawai Dayak celebration will be held at the Borneo Kuching Convention Centre on June 7, from 6.30pm onwards. He added that the guests of honour for the celebration would be Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg. “This year, the Iban community will organise the celebration. “Therefore, the celebration will have a variety of components featuring Iban cultural and community based presentations.” Uggah said the state government will also organise a Gawai Parade on June 17, with Abang Johari as the guest of honour. – Bernama NATIONAL PRIDE... Visitors queueing up for photographs of the country’s first submarine KD Tunku Abdul Rahman at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC
5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 Argument over pregnancy led to woman’s murder: Cops SUNGAI BESAR: An argument over hiding an out-of-wedlock pregnancy is believed to be the reason a restaurant waitress was brutally murdered by her boyfriend at an oil palm plantation on Jalan Sungai Limau on Monday. Sabak Bernam district police chief Supt Agus Salim Mohd Alias said the suspect, who was a former college student, had taken the victim into a car and argued with the 21-year-old woman before hitting her on the head and then killing her at the location at 10pm. Agus Salim added that his team received a report regarding the discovery of a body of a woman found burnt and lying on the ground at the oil palm plantation at 8am on Tuesday. He said they arrested a 20-year-old local man at a residence around Sungai Besar at 1.45pm on Wednesday. “According to preliminary investigations, the victim’s body is believed to have been burned twice with the aim of disposing of evidence,” he said. Agus Salim also said the suspect allegedly beat and stabbed his lover with a kitchen knife and slashed the victim’s stomach before burning the body and returned to the scene the following day with a container filled with petrol to finish off what he started. He said the man also disposed items belonging to the victim around Jalan Lama in Kuala Selangor. Agus Salim added that checks revealed the suspect had no criminal record. The suspect and victim are believed to have known each other since last year and the victim was around four months pregnant. He said the suspect was remanded for six days from yesterday to assist with investigations according to Section 302 of the Penal Code. The victim’s body, which was 60% burnt, was sent to the Sungai Buloh Hospital for post-mortem. In a separate case, Agus Salim said his team arrested four Indonesian men aged between 25 and 41 who are believed to be involved in trafficking 30kg of syabu worth RM1.08 million at the Sekinchan jetty area at 10pm on May 19. He said the suspects were remanded for seven days. The case is investigated under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 and Section 6 (1)(c) of the Immigration Act. – Bernama ‘Datuk’, MACC officer face RM640,000 graft charges KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officer and a businessman known as “Datuk Roy” were charged in the Sessions Court yesterday with two counts of soliciting and receiving bribes totalling RM640,000 as inducement to ensure former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s son was not remanded by the graft-busting body. Mohd Rasyidi Mohd Said, 43, and Datuk Roy, whose real name is Mohd Hussein Mohd Nasir, 54, pleaded not guilty to the charges before Judge Azura Alwi. oAlleged offence linked to withholding action on remand order against son of former PM Muhyiddin Yassin Man who flung parang at cops shot dead IPOH: An armed man said to be under the influence of drugs was shot dead by police when he acted aggressively and threatened to slash his mother at Hutan Melintang in Bagan Datuk on Tuesday. Perak police chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said yesterday the 44-year-old labourer refused to surrender when confronted by policemen in the incident at 11.30pm. “The suspect threatened to slash his 72-year-old mother. He also asked police to leave the place. “Fearing for the safety of the victim, police tried to persuade the suspect to calm down but he grabbed his mother and a parang and a pair of scissors,” he said. Mohd Yusri added that on realising that police had entered the house, the suspect pushed his mother to the ground, causing her to faint. He also threw a fan and parang at policemen who tried to arrest him. “As their lives were at risk, police fired one shot, which hit the suspect’s left shoulder. The suspect collapsed and the victim was saved.” He said police called an ambulance but the suspect was pronounced dead. Mohd Yusri added that the man had two previous convictions for drug offences. – Bernama Couple denies abusing two underage children KUANTAN: A married couple pleaded not guilty at the Sessions Court yesterday to two counts of causing injuries to their two children. The 29-year-old stepfather to the children and their biological mother, 28, claimed trial when the charges were read before Judge Mohammed Mokhzani Mokhtar. The duo were charged with ill-treating a six-year-old boy and his five-year-old sister under their care, which caused them to suffer physical injuries at a house in Pandan Damai Bukit Rangin in January. The charges were framed under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code, which provides a fine of RM20,000 or imprisonment of 10 years, or both. Mohammed Mokhzani fixed bail at RM12,000 in one surety each. The court set July 4 for mention. – Bernama Sand miners detained for operating illegally SHAH ALAM: The Selangor Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency detained three sand dredgers for operating without permission about 5.6 nautical miles southwest of Pulau Carey in Kuala Langat near here on Wednesday. Its director Kapt V. Siva Kumar said patrolling teams detected suspicious vessels that were carrying out sand dredging and removal activities. “Investigations revealed that the dredgers were operated by a captain and four crew members, believed to be Chinese nationals, aged between 30 and 61, who did not have any identification documents. “The dredgers did not have permission to carry out the activities,” he said. The case is being investigated under the Continental Shelf Act 1966, the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 and the Customs Act 1967. – Bernama MASSIVE HAUL ... Kelantan Customs director Wan Jamal Abdul Salam Wan Long (right) showing contraband cigarettes worth RM2.1 million seized at Senok Beach in Bachok yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC They were jointly charged with corruptly asking for bribes amounting to RM400,000 from Siti Dalena Berhan, 47, as inducement not to remand Datuk Fakhri Yassin Mahiaddin. The offence was allegedly committed at a restaurant in Bangsar between 9pm and 11pm on March 5. The two are also accused of accepting bribes amounting to RM240,000 from Syed Farid Syed Al Attas, 41, as inducement not to remand the same individual, Bernama reported. That offence was allegedly committed at a fast food outlet in Desa Sri Hartamas between 2pm and 4pm on March 6. They were charged under Section 16 (a) (A) of the MACC Act 2009, punishable under Section 24 of the same Act, which carries imprisonment of 20 years and a fine of not less than five times the amount of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher. In another court before Judge Suzana Hussin, Mohd Hussien pleaded not guilty to another charge of soliciting a RM2 million bribe from Siti Dalena and Syed Farid. The bribe allegedly sought was inducement to change the corruption charges faced by one Adam Radlan Adam Muhammad to a lighter one, change his statement to one given as a witness and lower his bail amount. The offence was allegedly committed at a premises in Kampung Melayu Kepong in February, and was filed under section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act 2009. Bail for Mohd Hussein was set at RM15,000 in one surety for all the charges and Mohd Rasyidi at RM10,000 in one surety, with the additional condition that their passports be impounded. They are to also report to the MACC office as ordered. Earlier, the court allowed an application by MACC prosecuting officer T. Armugom for Mohd Hussein’s case to be tried jointly with the other charges he was facing. DPP Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin and Nor Diana Nor Azwa were also part of the prosecution team. ‘Blacklist those who regularly return COD goods’ “Business vendors could also ban accounts that regularly show a pattern of rejecting goods ordered via COD. “Vendors selling on online shopping platforms could consider reporting the accounts to the online shopping platform or removing the option of accepting payment via COD. “Vendors selling outside online shopping platforms could keep a record of individuals who have previously rejected goods to be paid via COD, and blacklist them or not offer such a payment option to those individuals,” he said. Before taking legal action against joy buyers, Wu said vendors should keep records of individuals or accounts that have previously rejected goods to be paid via COD. Vendors should take a screenshot of all communication between them and joy buyers, as the interaction could be useful in proving fraudulent intent. He said if a vendor lodges a police report against a joy buyer and the matter is investigated, both parties could be called up by police to provide a statement. “If the attorney-general decides to charge a joy buyer, the person will have criminal proceedings initiated against him and the vendor may have to be prepared to be one of the prosecution’s witnesses if the case proceeds to trial,” Wu said. From front page
6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Cambodian party loses bid to overturn election ban oCritics say Hun Sen out to crush all opposition PHNOM PENH: Cambodia’s Constitutional Council yesterday rejected an appeal by the sole opposition party against its election disqualification, a decision that means the ruling party will run virtually unopposed in July. The Candlelight Party, a weakened reincarnation of a popular opposition party that was dissolved in 2017, was disqualified from the July 23 election over its registration paperwork, a ban activists dismissed as part of efforts to crush opposition to Prime Minister Hun Sen. Four HK students sentenced over bomb plot Vietnam jails noodle vendor who parodied Salt Bae HANOI: A noodle vendor in Vietnam famous for imitating celebrity chef “Salt Bae” to allegedly mock a top government official was sentenced to five and a half years in prison yesterday after a court found him guilty of anti-state propaganda. A video of Bui Tuan Lam, 39, went viral in November 2021 when it was posted days after a top Vietnamese official was caught on camera eating gold-encrusted steak at the London restaurant of the Turkish chef whose real name is Nusret Gökçe. Lam, who described himself in a Facebook post uploaded alongside the video as “Green Onion Bae”, was arrested last year. He was convicted yesterday of “making, storing, distributing, or disseminating information, documents, and items against the state”, the Danang police department said. Alongside running a beef noodle stall in the city, Lam had publicly advocated democracy in Vietnam and participated in many anti-China and pro-environment protests. The Danang police department also cited Lam’s indictment as saying he had posted 19 articles and 25 videos on social media to “distort and smear the state”. Human Rights Watch deputy Asia director Phil Robertson called on the government to stop prosecuting Lam and others for criticising the Vietnamese Communist Party. “The list of posts and videos listed as ‘evidence’ of Lam’s ‘crimes’ shows the extreme lengths to which the Vietnamese go to block any sort of online criticism.” – Reuters B R I E F SU.S. DENIES THAI REQUEST TO BUY F-35 JETS BANGKOK: The United States has declined to sell its F-35 stealth fighter jets to Thailand over issues with training and technical requirements, the Thai air force said yesterday. Thailand, which was designated a Major Non-Nato Ally by the US in 2003, had last year set aside a 13.8 billion baht (RM1.9 billion) budget for new jets to replace its aging, mostly USmade F-5 and F-16 fighters. It identified up to eight F-35A jets as its target. But sale of the fighters was subject to conditions that included time constraints, technical requirements and maintenance compatibility and the US was therefore unable to offer the sale, Air Chief Marshall Prapas Sornchaidee said in a statement. The F-35 is one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets and is considered a sensitive export sold only to the closest US allies. – Reuters MYANMAR DELEGATION VISITS ROHINGYA CAMPS DHAKA: A Myanmar government team arrived in Bangladesh yesterday as part of a mooted pilot scheme to repatriate around 1,200 of an estimated one million Rohingya refugees living in ramshackle camps. The team of 14 officials, all in civilian clothes, arrived by boat in the border town of Teknaf yesterday but made no comment to reporters. Bangladesh deputy refugee commissioner Shams ud Douza said the delegates would speak to Rohingyas who are earmarked to be repatriated, calling the visit a “confidence-building measure”. The Myanmar junta plans to house them in what experts said is land that for generations belonged to the Rohingyas before being confiscated. – AFP Residents watching the fire in central Sydney in this screen grab from a UGC video taken and posted by Grant Ozolins yesterday. – AFPPIC/TWITTER ACCOUNT @GRANTOZOLINS/GRANT OZOLINS The nine-member council said the National Election Commission’s (NEC) disqualification of the party was constitutional, and the tribunal’s decision was final. “On a legal basis, we looked at the facts,” tribunal deputy secretary-general Prom Vicheth Akara told a press conference. “The NEC decision has complied with the constitution,” he said, adding there were 18 parties that had successfully registered. Hun Sen, 70, one of the world’s longest-serving leaders after nearly four decades in charge, has previously said his Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) would dominate politics for up to a century. Just over a year old, Candlelight was the only party that was running directly against the HONG KONG: Four students, including two minors, were sentenced yesterday over their roles in an anti-government plot to set off bombs in public spaces in the financial hub. A court sentenced the oldest of the four to more than five years in prison and sent the other three to juvenile rehabilitation centres in a case handled under the national security law, which China imposed on Hong Kong in 2020 to quell dissent. The four defendants, now aged 17 to 21, were members of a little-known group called “Returning Valiant”, which promoted independence from China and had called for resistance after the security law was imposed. The group allegedly planned to make bombs using the explosive TATP in 2021, and set them off in public areas including court buildings. Before they could procure the materials, Hong Kong’s national security police arrested them in July of that year. Defendant Alexander Au, now 21, “is obviously more culpable. He was involved in renting the room, planning and preparation, and reconnaissance of targeted buildings,” said senior judge Alex Lee. Lee sentenced Au to five years and eight months in prison. The three others, aged 17 to 20, were “merely foot soldiers in the conspiracy” and failed to procure TATP ingredients, the judge said. They will be sent to training centres – rehabilitation-focused juvenile facilities that can hold 14- to 20-year-olds for up to three years. How long they stay there will depend on evaluations conducted by correctional officers. The group had pleaded guilty this month to one count of “conspiracy to cause an explosion” instead of the primary charge of “conspiracy to carry out terrorist activities”. Further legal proceedings are pending for four other individuals, aged 19 to 26, in the bomb plot case.– AFP 100 firefighters deployed to combat massive Sydney blaze CANBERRA: More than 100 firefighters battled towering flames and thick smoke from a seven-storey blaze in central Sydney yesterday as the fire service warned it was spreading. “The building is starting to collapse, while the inferno is beginning to spread to several neighbouring buildings, including residential apartments,” Fire and Rescue NSW said in a statement. The entire top floor wall leaned over and crashed in pieces into the street below, fire service video showed, as the building glowed orange with flames. Hoses poured water down the building, all of its windows lit by flames. The wreckage of a flaming van was parked in front. Images posted on social media showed flames almost as high as the building itself shooting into the sky. Emergency services said they deployed more than 100 firefighters, with 20 fire trucks, who were “working to contain and extinguish the blaze” on Randle Street near the city’s Central Station. “The public is urged to avoid the area as firefighting operations continue,” the fire service said, as the sound of emergency vehicle sirens echoed through the city streets. – AFP CPP, which has monopolised all levels of politics since the 2017 dissolution of the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP). Scores of former CNRP members have been detained or convicted of serious crimes, many in absentia having fled into exile from Hun Sen’s crackdowns on critics and political opponents. “We’re very disappointed,” Candlelight deputy president Son Chhay said in a text message after the tribunal’s decision. He did not elaborate. The Candlelight Party was disqualified on May 15 for submitting an election registration document that was a photocopy rather than an original. Human Rights Watch said at the time the government was going to “ludicrous” lengths to ensure it was unopposed in the vote, “showing it has no interest in holding a truly democratic election”. Sam Rainsy, the CNRP’s self-exiled co-founder and Hun Sen’s oldest rival, last week dismissed what he said would be a “fake and sham” election. Though Hun Sen has been widely credited with maintaining stability in post-war Cambodia and attracting development aid and foreign investment, his critics accuse him of increasing authoritarianism and of undermining democratic institutions. The government has repeatedly denied that it has a campaign to decimate its opposition and says all action taken has been within the law. – Reuters
7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 China hackers attacking critical infrastructure: US WASHINGTON: State-sponsored Chinese hackers have infiltrated critical US infrastructure networks, America, its Western allies and Microsoft said on Wednesday while warning that similar espionage attacks could be occurring globally. Microsoft highlighted Guam, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean with a vital military outpost, as one of the targets, but said “malicious” activity had also been detected elsewhere in America. The stealthy attack – carried out by a China-sponsored actor dubbed “Volt Typhoon” since 2021 – enabled long-term espionage and was likely aimed at hampering the US if there was conflict in the region, it said. “Microsoft assesses with moderate confidence that this Volt Typhoon campaign is pursuing development of capabilities that oBeijing accuses Washington and allies of ‘disinformation’ DeSantis joins White House race, launch derailed by Twitter glitches WASHINGTON: Florida governor Ron DeSantis’s long-awaited entry into the 2024 presidential campaign descended into a fiasco on Wednesday as the opening of the live Twitter event intended to announce his candidacy was derailed by glitches. The conversation repeatedly crashed as the platform’s servers were apparently overwhelmed, and many of the 400,000-plus users who were hoping to listen in missed the 44-year-old conservative throwing down the gauntlet to Republican primary frontrunner Donald Trump. DeSantis finally began speaking after almost half an hour of confusion and chaos – although what should have been an exultant launch had been thoroughly overshadowed by the time he was able to make his case for the Republican nomination. “I am running for president of the United States to lead our great American comeback,” he told the listeners, although tens of thousands had abandoned Twitter by that point. As the website struggled to get the event back on track, its owner Elon Musk, performing hosting duties, could be heard noting the “massive number of people online” who had caused the servers to begin “straining somewhat”. The conversation eventually went on for more than an hour, but technical gremlins persisted. Long viewed as the most formidable challenger to Trump, DeSantis boasts midwestern roots, a large campaign fund, a list of ultra-conservative legislative wins and an unblemished record of election victories. While Trump has dominated headlines with his legal woes, DeSantis has presented himself as the tip of the spear in the struggle of ordinary Americans against progressive values he sees as authoritarian and divisive. – AFP Paralysed man walks via implants in brain and spine PARIS: A paralysed man has regained the ability to walk smoothly using only his thoughts for the first time, researchers said on Wednesday, thanks to two implants that restored communication between brain and spinal cord. Gert-Jan, who did not want to reveal his surname, said the breakthrough had given him “a freedom that I did not have” before. The Dutchman has been paralysed in his legs for more than a decade after suffering a spinal cord injury during a bicycle accident. But using a new system, the 40-year-old can now walk “naturally”, take on difficult terrain and even climb stairs, according to a study published in the journal Nature. The advance is the result of more than a decade of work by a team of researchers in France and Switzerland. Last year the team showed that a spinal cord implant – which sends electrical pulses to stimulate movement in leg muscles – had allowed three paralysed patients to walk again. But they needed to press a button to move their legs each time. The latest research combines the spinal implant with a brain-computer interface, which is implanted above the part of the brain that controls leg movement. The interface uses algorithms based on artificial intelligence methods to decode brain recordings in real time, the researchers said. This allows the interface, which was designed by researchers at France’s Atomic Energy Commission, to work out how the patient wants to move their legs at any moment. The data is transmitted to the spinal cord implant via a portable device that fits in a walker or small backpack, allowing patients to get around without help from others. – AFP B R I E F SNET MIGRATION TO UK HITS ‘RECORD’ 606,000 LONDON: Net migration to the UK hit a record 606,000 last year, official figures showed yesterday, heaping pressure on the government, which has pledged to cut dependency on foreign labour. “A series of unprecedented world events throughout 2022 and the lifting of restrictions following the coronavirus pandemic led to record levels of international immigration to the UK,” said Office for National Statistics centre for international migration director Jay Lindop. The main drivers were people coming to the UK from non-European Union countries for “work, study and for humanitarian purposes”, he said. The figures included those arriving from Ukraine after Russia’s invasion and Hong Kong after China’s squeeze on civil rights. – AFP THIEVES AGAIN RAM-RAID LUXURY SHOP IN FRANCE PARIS: Thieves yesterday smashed a car into a luxury store for the third time this year in the same French city to steal handbags and other valuables, a police source said. The burglary at dawn from the Hermes shop in the northeastern city of Lille comes just days after another store belonging to Louis Vuitton was targeted 100m down the road on Wednesday last week. The Louis Vuitton shop was itself already burgled in January. The thieves yesterday made off with clothes, jewelry and handbags, but part of the loot was abandoned on site, the source said. They also left behind two cars, including the one used to ram-raid the shop, but police were on the lookout for a third vehicle used, the source said. – AFP could disrupt critical communications infrastructure between the United States and Asia region during future crises. “In this campaign, the affected organisations span the communications, manufacturing, utility, transport, construction, maritime, government, information technology, and education sectors.” Microsoft’s statement coincided with an advisory released by US, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand and UK authorities warning that the hacking was likely occurring globally. “This activity affects networks across US’s critical infrastructure sectors, and the authoring agencies believe the actor could apply the same techniques against these and other sectors worldwide,” they said. China denied the allegations, describing the Microsoft report as “extremely unprofessional” and “scissors-and-paste work”. “It is clear that this is a collective disinformation campaign of the Five Eyes coalition countries, initiated by the US for its geopolitical purposes,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said, referring to the security alliance of the US and its Western allies that wrote the report. “The participation of certain companies shows that aside from government organisations, the US is expanding new channels for disseminating disinformation. “But no change in tactics can alter the fact that the US is a hacker empire.” The US and its allies said the activities involved “living off the land” tactics, which take advantage of built-in network tools to blend in with normal Windows systems. It warned that the hacking could then incorporate legitimate system administration commands that appear “benign”. Microsoft said the Volt Typhoon attack tried to blend into normal network activity by routing traffic through compromised small office and home office network equipment, including routers, firewalls and VPN hardware. “They have also been observed using custom versions of open-source tools.” Microsoft and Western security agencies released guidelines for organisations to try to detect and counter the hacking. – AFP Russia arrests quartet planning nuke plant attacks MOSCOW: Russia has arrested two Ukrainians who had allegedly planned to target nuclear power plants in the country, the FSB security service said yesterday. “A sabotage group from the Ukrainian foreign intelligence service tried to blow up some 30 power lines of nuclear power plants in Leningrad and Kalinin” early this month with the aim of stopping the nuclear reactors at the plants, Russian news agencies quoted the FSB as saying in a statement. The aim was to cause “serious economic harm to Russia and damage its reputation”, it said. The men had brought down “a pylon carrying a high voltage line and planted mines in four pylons carrying high voltage lines from the Leningrad nuclear power station”, it said. Explosives were also planted near seven similar pylons linked to the Kalinin nuclear plant, it added. FSB said it was looking for a third man with Ukrainian-Russian nationality, adding that 36.5kg of explosives and about 60 detonators were found in the homes of the suspects and their alleged accomplices. Two Russians who allegedly helped the trio were also arrested, the FSB said. Meanwhile, the New York Times said US intelligence agencies believe that a drone attack on the Kremlin earlier this month was likely orchestrated by Ukrainian spies or military intelligence. The newspaper said the attack appeared to be part of a series of covert operations that have made officials in the US – Ukraine’s biggest supplier of military equipment – uncomfortable. The American assessment was based on intercepted Russian and Ukrainian communications, the paper said. The US intercepted Ukrainian conversations in which officials said they believed their country was responsible for the attack, and also Artists drawing a mural on the last remaining wall of a collapsed building in the rebel-held Syrian city of Binnish, depicting AFP journalist Arman Soldin who was killed in the Donbas region while covering the conflict in Ukraine. – AFPPIC tapped into Russian communications which indicated it was not some sort of false-flag operation by Russia, it added. US officials said they do not believe Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky signs off on all covert operation, the paper said. It is unclear to what extent he is aware of such operations in advance, the officials were quoted as saying. Moscow accused Ukraine of trying to kill Russian President Vladimir Putin in the attack. Zelensky promptly denied any Ukrainian involvement. – AFP
8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 SPEAK UP /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME Climate change can kill us all THE title of this article may sound alarmist, yet it reflects the grim reality we are facing. Climate change is not a distant concern, it is a pressing issue that demands our attention. The detrimental effects of climate change are already evident in our daily lives, both in Malaysia and across the globe. We are witnessing a world ablaze with environmental crises, yet many people remain apathetic. Hardly a day goes by without news reports and analyses highlighting the devastating impact of catastrophic storms, heatwaves, droughts, floods, rising sea levels, disruptions to agriculture and food production, loss of biodiversity and the surge in tropical diseases as well as the associated health problems, including heart and mental health issues. The images of the devastating aftermath caused by cyclones and tornadoes occurring around the world today are nothing short of shocking. Furthermore, the unprecedented heatwave gripping our country serves as a deadly and cryptic warning of graver things to come. Even the United Nations has issued a cautionary advice that the period from 2023 to 2027 is projected to be the hottest five-year span ever recorded. This is partly attributed to the El Nino effect, which in turn, is also linked to the broader issue of climate change. Beyond the environmental impact, climate change also poses a significant threat to global peace. True harmony and peaceful coexistence among humans and with our natural world – the very essence of world peace – is under siege. Merely complaining about the problem will not yield solutions, it can only deepen disillusionment and despair among many individuals. Even if we have not been adversely affected yet, we cannot afford to be indifferent to its impacts. As responsible citizens of this country and the world, we must take meaningful action. To address the urgency of the situation, we begin by providing a clear and accessible explanation of what climate change entails. Climate change, also known as global warming, is a process characterised by the gradual heating of the Earth’s atmosphere. It occurs due to the “greenhouse effect”, which is caused by the accumulation of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), in the atmosphere. These gases form an invisible layer that acts as a barrier, trapping heat from the sun within the atmosphere. It is important to note that CO2, despite being inert and non-toxic, contributes significantly to this phenomenon. Climate change, arguably the most destructive form of environmental degradation, gained significant global attention during the United Nations Rio Earth Summit in 1992. This landmark event marked the first time in history that world leaders came together in Rio de Janeiro to address critical issues linked to the environment and development from a global perspective. At the conference, the concept of “Sustainable Development” was adopted from the influential Brundtland Report published in 1987. Sustainable development is defined as the responsible utilisation of resources to fulfil current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It became a central pillar of the global environmental agenda. Climate change is the result of unsustainable reliance on fossil fuels, such as coal, shale, oil and gas, since the start of the Industrial Revolution in the West in 1760. The rapid industrialisation, driven by aggressive capitalist forces, caused the release of massive amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Furthermore, the increase in agricultural activities and farming has contributed to elevated methane emissions – particularly from livestock, such as cows – which is another greenhouse gas, thus exacerbating the situation. The other form of air pollution is the local emission of toxic gases that are contaminating air quality, which can be deadly and have an immediate effect, such as the Bhopal Disaster in December 1984, which killed an estimated 8,000 people within two weeks. The rapid progression of global warming is primarily a result of the excessive accumulation of humaninduced greenhouse gases in the atmosphere over a relatively short period since 1760, which is a mere 260 years in the context of the Earth’s 4.5 billion-year history. This unprecedented increase is affecting the delicate balance of the ecosystem and, if left unchecked, can potentially cause the end of humanity. The primary contributors to climate change are the oil and gas industry, which is responsible for the extraction and production of fossil fuels, and the transport and logistics industry, which heavily relies on unsustainable and non-renewable energy sources. A critical question regarding sustainable development remains unanswered: if there are still significant reserves of coal, shale and oil and gas available on Earth, how can the over utilisation of these resources be deemed unsustainable for future generations? The simple explanation is that over utilisation of finite, depleting and Lessons on brand loyalty TWO unrelated events but of importance to different groups are happening this August: elections in six states in Malaysia and the start of the English Premier League. For the first, voters in Kedah, Penang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kelantan and Terengganu will decide who will be leading their respective states for the next five years. It will also be the first poll after last year’s general election, which saw the formation of a unity government, composed of previously warring parties. Halfway across the world, the 32nd season of the English Premier League will kick off on Aug 12 as football fans train their attention on their favourite teams, who will battle it out in one of the most closely watched annual sporting events on the planet. While these two events are seemingly unrelated, they are good case studies about brand loyalty. In football, fans rarely switch team allegiance. If you are a fan of say, Manchester United, it is unlikely that you will wake up one morning and start supporting Liverpool. More likely than not, you will stay a Manchester United fan for life, collecting whatever merchandise you can afford, cheering your team at every match and never missing a chance to run down rival clubs in good fun. No authority can ever tell you to support another club. This brand loyalty is partly due to human’s evolutionary history, where we develop tribal allegiance as a survival mechanism. Just as football fans tend to stay loyal to only one club, voters too are more likely to stick with the political parties or blocs that they can identify with. It is unlikely that a hardcore supporter of say, the DAP, will vote for an Umno candidate in the poll and vice versa. Both parties are, ideologically, poles apart. For decades, the DAP has spoken ill of Umno in the worst possible terms. The reverse is also true. The DAP’s pet peeve with Umno prior to the 15th general election was that the latter was said to be kleptocratic, corrupt, racist and arrogant. On the other hand, Umno leaders back then had accused the DAP of being chauvinistic, anti-Malay and anti-Islam. Having indoctrinated their respective supporters over the decades, it is unlikely that the voters will switch allegiance like flipping a switch, as though the ill will from the past has evaporated into thin air. This is notwithstanding recent pleas from leaders in the unity government that voters in the six states back the bloc in the polls. It is not that voters’ minds are always fixed. Voters do change their minds, otherwise, we would not have had changes in governments. But since the unity government was formed, none of the political parties within it has seen a major ideological shift that would make them appeal to new converts, without losing their traditional base. This, coupled with the prolonged indoctrination by partners in the unity government against each other in the past, make it unlikely for voters to bring themselves to support a party which goes against their cherished values and ideals. In other words, there may be little “votes transferability” between the BN and PH in the upcoming polls, which has been touted as a barometer of support for the Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim administration. Leaders in the unity government have projected that the coalition will win comfortably in the state elections, based on the premise that BN and PH voters will join forces to give the coalition a resounding victory. But as exemplified by the football club loyalty analogy, this is unlikely to happen at a scale that can determine electoral outcomes. With that in mind, the unity government can ill-afford to rest on its laurels and rely on the oversimplified mathematics of “votes transferability”, which is based on flawed assumptions. It needs to sit up and go back to the drawing board. Comments: [emailprotected] The United Nations has warnedthat the period from 2023 to 2027 is projected to be the hottest five-year span ever recorded. – REUTERSPIC Brace for AI-induced job loss impact THE advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been deemed a threat to some people due to its impact on employment. Malaysia has projected an unemployment rate of 3.8% in 2023, but this figure could potentially increase in the future due to the integration of AI. According to a report from investment bank Goldman Sachs, up to 300 million full-time jobs could be replaced by AI in the future. The issue of job displacement, with the presence of AI in the technology sector, has gained traction and is a highly intricate matter. However, it is important to recognise that AI can also offer benefits. As a developing country, Malaysia should embrace the integration of AI and brace for its consequences. Notwithstanding the potential job losses, bear in mind that AI can streamline our daily activities. To ensure the successful adoption of AI and other advanced technologies, educational institutions must play a pivotal role in preparing the future workforce. Schools and universities need to equip students with extensive technical knowledge and skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. Updating the curriculum to remain relevant to evolving technologies is crucial. Diversifying skills that cannot be replicated by machines is of utmost importance. Furthermore, universities should forge partnerships with industries to facilitate knowledge transfer, and offer students valuable real-world exposure. This collaborative approach will bridge the gap between the skills sought by industries and those possessed by students. By working together, students can gain hands-on experience, engage in AI projects and develop relevant skills that are aligned with the demands of an AI-driven job market. The government should play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of AI. It should implement progressive and innovative policies to provide support for individuals who may experience job losses due to AI. Additionally, the government must proactively create new employment opportunities that remain relevant for workers. While AI is sophisticated and advanced, it cannot entirely replace humans. Professions, such as teachers, doctors and lawyers, will continue to remain relevant. However, it is essential to embrace AI as a tool to streamline work processes and enhance capabilities. By integrating AI technologies appropriately, professionals can benefit from increased efficiency and improved outcomes in their respective fields. Dr Mohd Shahidan Shaari Senior Lecturer Faculty of Business and Communication Universiti Malaysia Perlis COMMENT by Lim Soo Kiang LETTERS [emailprotected] COMMENT by Heidi Young and Vanessa Wong non-renewable resources (fossil fuels) can also cause climate change and have destructive consequences. This catastrophic result will undermine the ability of future generations to organise and meet their needs even if there are ample reserves of fossil fuels remaining. Since the Rio Earth Summit, there has been more talk than action by the Western industrialised countries, which are the main polluters of greenhouse gases. The industrialised West should bear a heavier responsibility to mitigate and address the problem, given their significant contribution to CO2 emissions, instead of placing the onus on poorer, developing countries to make sacrifices and curtail their progress. The transition to renewable energy is not cheap and easy. It will require substantial capital investments in new technologies, which poorer nations may not be able to afford. Despite various proposals from developed countries to support these nations in their renewable energy endeavours, proper implementation of these schemes has been lacking. There remains a significant gap between the discussions and actual actions taken by the industrialised West. When it comes to climate change as a global phenomenon that transcends borders, we cannot adopt a self-centred, “not in my backyard” mindset that is often prevalent when dealing with pollution of air, water and toxic waste. The writers are from a think tank unit under the Ipech Museum Group, Kuala Lumpur. Comments: [emailprotected]
ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 Dive into unforgettable bliss at Berjaya Tioman Resort >>> PAGE S4S5
Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 S2 WELCOME to Tioman Island, a true paradise nestled in the crystalclear waters of the South China Sea. If you’re dreaming of a tropical getaway, look no further. With its pristine beaches, verdant rainforests, abundant marine life, and laid-back island atmosphere, Tioman Island has it all. Hence, in this edition of BUZZ, we’ll take you on a tour of the island, sharing all the must-see attractions, thrilling activities, and hidden gems Tioman offers. So put on your sunscreen and let’s dive into the wonders of Tioman Island! Visit stunning beaches Tioman Island is famous for its stunning beaches, and it’s not hard to see why. Picture yourself lounging on powdery white sands, with the gentle breeze caressing your skin and the warm sun kissing your face. There are 11 beaches in total, with Salang Beach, Juara Beach, and ABC Beach being just a few of the idyllic spots to soak up the tropical vibes and work on your tan. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a lively beach atmosphere, Tioman has something for everyone. Take, for example, Juara Beach, located on the east coast of Tioman Island, and worth adding to your list of places to visit on Tioman Island due to its views and sunrises. It is without a doubt one of the best beaches on the island. It’s also a great place to go if you’re looking for more challenging activities, as it has the best surf spots on the island. ATV rides Consider including a thrilling ATV ride on Tioman Island in your itinerary. This activity promises not only an adrenaline rush but also breathtaking views of the lush surrounding jungle, all with minimal exertion required on your end. Both Berjaya Tioman Resort and Paya Beach Resort offer ATV rides through the nearby jungle, so you can opt for whichever accommodation suits you best. It is recommended to embark on this adventure in the late afternoon from Berjaya Tioman Resort, as you can then make your way toward Bunut Beach and witness a stunning sunset, adding an extra touch of beauty to your experience. Explore Asah Waterfall If you have a fondness for nature and a desire to immerse yourself in freshwater surroundings, Asah Waterfall is unquestionably the ideal destination on Tioman Island. Renowned as one of the top attractions there, Asah Waterfall offers not only picturesque scenery but also an opportunity to take a refreshing dip in its non-saline Located in the South China Sea off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, the Tioman Islands are a perfectly balanced island beach destination in Malaysia. – 123RF oThis edition of BUZZ discovers the magic of Tioman Island, your ideal tropical escape █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL This beautiful waterfall is located in the jungle and you can walk to it via a trail from Mukut. – PINTEREST By far the top of the list of the top Tioman Island activities is a snorkeling or diving trip. – 123RF With very little effort on your part, you can experience a surge of excitement and stunning panoramas of the surrounding jungle. – BERJAYA HOTEL & RESORTS waters, or simply admire the captivating view after embarking on a jungle trek to reach the site. Situated in Tioman’s pristine rainforests, getting to Asah Waterfall by hiking is the best way to experience the island’s many delights. On your way to the waterfall, you can see its diverse wildlife and natural ecosystem. Upon arrival, you will be captivated by the falls. There are also several other ways to get there, including by boat ride, or even a taxi. It all depends on your level of comfort. Dive into an underwater wonderland Calling all underwater enthusiasts! Tioman Island is a diver’s paradise. With its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, it offers some of the best diving experiences in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner eager to explore the underwater world, Tioman has dive sites to suit all levels. From the famous Coral Island to the Renggis Island Marine Park, you’ll encounter an abundance of marine life, including colourful coral gardens, turtles, sharks, and mesmerizing tropical fish. Tours for snorkeling and diving are available. This is also a good place to get your PADI Open Water Diver certification. There are also introductory dives available that do not require certification or a course. Go jungle trekking Beyond its beautiful beaches, Tioman Island is home to a dense rainforest that begs to be explored. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure through lush trails that lead to hidden lakes, and breathtaking viewpoints. Immerse yourself in nature’s symphony as you encounter unique flora and fauna along the way. Keep an eye out for the elusive monitor lizards, mischievous macaques, and the mesmerising sound of tropical birdsong. The Panuba Bay Jungle Trek and the Asah Waterfall Trek are just a couple of the many trails waiting to be discovered.
Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 S3 taking the correct path.” Even though he initially faced many challenges, he made every effort to improve. In the beginning, Lee spent much of his time in the library doing research about how to do his job right, and how to manage an academy. Lee claimed that because technology was less developed in those days, Internet access was not even a possibility. The library was the only thing he had to fall back on. Through his studies, he was able to learn about swimming methods and company management. When questioned about his approach to training, Lee explained that it is all about discipline for him and that he encourages all of his students to maintain good discipline and physical fitness as a way to maintain their skill level. One thing that has sustained him over his 25 years as a swimming coach is seeing his pupils improve as swimmers. “It feels fantastic when people truly appreciate us. As though all of my effort over the years has been worthwhile.” Although Lee now works as a professional trainer, he said that he used to make plenty of blunders. However, he added that “failures are the key to achievements.” “We have to acknowledge that we don’t always make the best choices; we just need to take a deep breath, start over, and make the necessary corrections. It’s not that challenging.” As for his accomplishments, one of Lee’s biggest was when he started working as an underwater consultant on TV advertisem*nts and film projects. Being optimistic in all circ*mstances is what drives Lee to do his job even better. In addition to his love of swimming, Lee’s passion for scuba diving, freediving, and mermaid training has had a significant impact on his life. “I will constantly underline to our students that we are all ocean ambassadors and that we must preserve them because I adore our ocean.” Lee also took the chance to thank his wife for being so understanding and supportive, as well as everyone who knew him and supported him during his difficult times. “Without all of you, I would not be here here now. Thank you. I love you all.” For more information, visit dolphinlee.com/home. even though he knew nothing in detail about the sport. “ Ev e r y t h i n g simply occurred at the right moment and location. I wanted to take a chance to do it, even though I was also concerned about what may occur. Now, I have been an instructor for nearly 25 years at this point.” Naturally, when Lee first opened his aquatic academy, things weren’t as simple, but he remarked that he had anticipated all of this. AT the time, it was undoubtedly a major risk to open a school for someone without any professional experience. “I was new and I was concerned about my capacity to teach. I was also afraid of recruiting staff for my academy. I wasn’t certain that I was would spend his days watching swimming contests on television, and his very u n d e r s t a n d i n g father would take him to swimming pools on the weekends to go for a swim. “ W a t c h i n g coaches instruct students in swimming definitely made me consider wanting to do that myself in the future. My enthusiasm for swimming grew despite the fact that I was still learning how to swim at the time.” As a product designer, Lee began his work at a Japanese company. He was working as a pool lifeguard in one of the swimming pool stadiums on the side in addition to his full-time employment. When Lee reached the age of 23, his interest in swimming grew, and he acknowledged he should not disregard it. He took the challenge to learn to swim, and to do it professionally, S WIMMING is beneficial for people of all ages, from all backgrounds, and with various degrees of expertise. Swimming is one of the few activities in which you can participate from a young age; a low-impact activity that offers greater resistance than dryland activities and has a therapeutic cooling effect on the body, which adds to its many health advantages. It is undoubtedly the ideal sport. Lee Boon Leong, often known as Dolphin Lee, recently spoke with theSun about his professional life as a swimming instructor. Lee, 48, is a trainer in Dolphin Lee Aquatic Academy. It is a PADI 5-star licenced dive centre and the only facility offering AIDA Freediving training, and mermaid services. Lee is renowned for his range of abilities. He was a swimmer, scuba diving instructor, freediver, lifesaver and also a mermaid professional trainer, and has been swimming professionally since 1996. When Lee was younger, swimming piqued his curiosity. He oDive into the inspiring journey of Dolphin Lee as he empower swimmers of all ages to conquer the deep end █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Dolphin Lee Aquatic Academy is Malaysia’s first center to provide Mermaids services & AIDA Freediving courses. Dolphin Lee’s underwater encounter with a whaleshark. Lee always reminds his students to keep the ocean clean. Dolphin Lee has been swimming professionally for over 25 years. – ALL PIX BY DOLPHIN LEE Dive into the depths for your PADI licence GETTING a certified diving licence is an exciting way to discover the undersea world’s treasures. The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) provides one of the most well-known certificates. This guide will walk you through each stage of the procedure for earning a PADI diving licence. HERE IS A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO OBTAINING A CERTIFIED PADI DIVING LICENSE: 0 Do your research It’s crucial to do your research and pick a reputable PADI Dive Centre before you start your path to a diving licence from PADI. Look through internet reviews, talk to seasoned divers, and take location, amenities, and instructor credentials into account. For assistance in locating a suitable dive centre close to your selected dive location, find out the listing of associated dive centres on the PADI website. 0 Choose the right course Different diving courses from PADI are designed for divers of all skill levels. The PADI Open Water Diver course is the most popular entry-level certification. This extensive programme gives students the essential know-how and diving abilities they need to dive on their own. Make sure the course you choose is compatible with your current diving objectives and skill level. 0 Study the theory You will get course materials, such as manuals and instructional videos, after enrolling in the chosen course. These publications explain the fundamental concepts of scuba diving theory, including dive planning, equipment use, and safety procedures. To fully comprehend the topics, study the materials in-depth. Your understanding will be tested when you complete knowledge reviews and quizzes, which will also get you ready for the big examination. 0 Practical training Sessions in restricted water and dives in open water are part of the practical training. Sessions in confined water are frequently conducted in shallow water, such a pool. In this location, you will practise important skills under the supervision of a PADIcertified instructor. Open water dives provide you the chance to put everything you’ve learnt into practise in actual diving situations. The PADI Open Water Diver course must be finished with a minimum of four open water dives. 0 Final exam and certification You will take a final test to show that you understand diving ideas and safety procedures once you have finished the theory and practical Certified PADI license that grants you the freedom to explore the ocean depths. – 123RF training. Your PADI diving certification will be given to you once the exam and the necessary number of open water dives have been successfully completed. With this qualification, you may visit diving locations all around the world because it is accepted everywhere. A qualified PADI diving licence is a rewarding accomplishment that provides access to exhilarating underwater excursions. You may get the skills and information required to become a certified diver by choosing a reputable PADI dive centre or resort, picking the appropriate course, studying the theory, participating in practical training, and passing the final exam. Remember that for a lifetime of pleasurable diving, safety and continued practise are essential. – by Thashine Selvakumaran
Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 S4 the evenings, there is also the option to enjoy an outdoor movie night, with a variety of films available for screening. Rooms with a view We were given rooms in the resort’s Garden Premier Terrace, which aside from being spacious, were also located a stone’s throw away from the lobby, making it extremely convenient for us as that was the starting point before we headed for most of our planned activities. The resort has several other room options to suit various budgets and family sizes. For those looking for chalets located in quieter parts of the resort, we were told that the best rooms to pick were the Garden Terrace and Garden Chalets. Meanwhile, those travelling in larger groups or with their families have several options available to them. There are Double or Twin Rooms for all room categories, except for Beach Terrace, as well as a Two Bedroom Chalet, which features adjoining rooms. Those looking to make the most of the beach may prefer the Beach Terrace Chalets. But no matter where your room is located, getting around the resort is a breeze thanks to markers set up along the footpaths which feature QR codes that guests can scan to bring up a map of the grounds. A variety of dining options After settling in our rooms, we immediately headed to the resort’s main dining area, known as Asean All Day Dining, which offers guests three meals a day, mostly consisting of local dishes that offer familiar tastes while also satisfying hungry guests looking to replenish the calories they burnt up during the day. Located right next to the main dining area is the Matahari restaurant, open from 3pm to 11pm, which offers delicious Thai and Indian cuisine. During our stay, we got to try the Shell-Out, of one Matahari’s signature offerings, consisting of a generous serving of lobster, mussels, crab, squid and clams cooked in tom yam sauce together with fragrant white rice. It is definitely one of the must-try dining options at the resort. While we were there we also got to sample some of the dishes that will be served at the recently launched, pork-free Jia Chinese Restaurant, which is managed by Chef Law Heng Juan, an experienced and long-time employee of Berjaya Hotels & Resorts who also oversees the resort’s other restaurants. Jia is set to offer another option for guests who want to sample more varieties of local cuisine. And for those looking for a cool drink, the Pool Bar and the Beach Bar are the perfect spots to stay AFTER hearing so much about Berjaya Tioman Resort’s many charms, in particular, its pristine turquoise waters and sandy beaches, we were thrilled to receive an invitation to visit the resort and experience them ourselves. Getting there The most popular way to reach the island is by ferry, and thus we travelled to Johor to set off from the busy Mersing Jetty, where the ferry departs twice daily. While waiting for your ferry to depart, guests of Berjaya Tioman Resort can rest awhile and grab a hot drink at the newly opened Berjaya Lounge located at Plaza D’Jeti, a mere minute’s walk away from the main ferry terminal. If you decide to explore the town, you can leave your luggage at the Lounge and pick them up before your departure. Also, if you’ve forgotten any essential beach supplies, fret not. Plaza D’Jeti is packed with shops where you can make last-minute purchases, ranging from swimwear to sunblock. The ferry ride itself takes about two hours, with a few stops along the way around the island. Once you reach the Tekek Village Jetty, you can arrange for a shuttle van to greet you at the jetty when you book your stay. For those preferring to arrive in style, there are charter flights via SKS Airways from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang, and Senai Airport in Johor. Peaceful atmosphere Once we boarded our shuttle van, it was a pleasant ride across the island towards the resort. We drove past several smaller kampung areas that were populated with dive shops and homestays. The island has so far managed to avoid the intense overdevelopment that comes with tourism, with its natural rainforests and clear blue waters relatively untouched. We finally reached our resort, with its rustic, recently-varnished chalets glistening under the bright afternoon sun. The resort, and its accompanying 18-hole golf course, sits on a Enjoy a host of water activities provided by the resort, including kayaking on the open sea. The resort has a range of rooms to suit all types of guests. The Beach Bar musicians (from left) Liza, Eugene and Lenglui. (right) Golfers can catch up on their game at the resort’s 18- hole golf course. massive 200-acre plot of land, with a direct view of the sea. We were greeted by a brief musical performed by the resort staff, which is how they welcomed all their newly-arrived guests. We also got the opportunity to meet the General Manager Simon Tan, who helped guide us throughout our stay and made it all the more memorable. Those planning a trip with their families will be pleased to note that there are plenty of options for outdoor activities to suit the whole family. Located right next to the swimming pool, which is always a hub of activity during the weekends, is a huge field with a children’s playground and an archery course. Larger groups can also arrange to host their own games in this space. There is also a football field, as well as a tennis court where you can test your skills. During our stay, we ran into a gentleman who occasionally hosted tennis workshops on the court. For facilities aimed at younger children, the resort’s Kids Club has an array of games that would keep children occupied for hours. And in (left) There’s nothing better than relaxing by the resort’s pool. oOur long-awaited stay at Berjaya Tioman Resort was everything that we had hoped for, and more █ BYANANSA JACOB
Buzz theSun BUZZ ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 S5 Berjaya Tioman Resort sits on a 200- acre plot of land on Tioman Island. The resort offers personalised dining options, including a romantic dinner for two on a pontoon. Resort guests can rest awhile at the Berjaya Lounge located at Mersing Jetty. Here is your chance to win an unforgettable staycation Go on an exciting island getaway in Tioman courtesy of theSun BUZZ and Berjaya Tioman Resort. Just scan the QR Code below and fill in the contest form. and rest while enjoying the view. Fun under the sun One of the things we were looking forward to was the opportunity to go snorkelling, especially since we were told that Tioman had several renowned dive spots where there were plenty of marine creatures and colourful corals. We set off on a chartered boat from the Berjaya Tioman Jetty, located just at the edge of the golf course, and visited three locations – Pulau Tulai, known for its colourful coral reefs and harmless jellyfish; Pulau Soyak, where we saw sea turtles (fulfilling one item on my bucket list) and an array of colourful fish; and Pulau Renggis, the broccoli-shaped islet just a few hundred metres from the resort. Each location is also a popular diving spot, and there were quite a number of other chartered boats alongside ours. Despite this, the sight of healthy corals indicated that the risk of overcrowding was kept in check. For those preferring more land-based activities, the resort lets you rent bicycles which you can ride around the grounds, as well as ATVs that you can ride to a distant beach located on the other side of the golf course. This option is probably more suited to advanced riders, however, as the path takes you across some pretty rough terrain that may be challenging for most newbies. If, however, you are looking for something more low impact, the resort offers daily hourlong yoga sessions at 8am and 4pm. Our instructor for the day, Ong Vern-Tsing, helped us stretch our muscles after long hours tied to a desk. But of course, for the ultimate feeling of relaxation, we booked ourselves a session at the resort’s Ayura Spa. On-duty therapist Rose worked her magic and pretty soon, our worries and stresses fell away. Going above and beyond The resort staff do their utmost to make every guest’s stay feel magical. Aside from the cheery smiles that greeted us almost everywhere that we went, the resort staff also perform a Fire Show every Friday and Saturday night at 8pm, which is a hit among younger guests. We also enjoyed speaking to the trio of musicians who performed nightly at the resort’s Beach Bar, where we stopped by each night after a long day of activities. Lenglui, Liza and Eugene would visit each table to chat in between their sets, and treated everyone like their best friend. It was this personal touch that made our holiday all the more special. One of our party celebrated his birthday during our stay, and they performed several songs for him, including his favourite, The Bee Gees’ How Deep Is Your Love. Besides that, General Manager Simon Tan, who was one of our guides throughout our stay, even took the time to drive us out to Kampung Tekek where we could purchase some dutyfree items to bring home, and even brought us to the Tioman Marine Park, where we spent some time feeding the fish swimming around the jetty. The resort can also work with guests to organise specially curated experiences, including for couples on a romantic getaway. While we were there, we were given a taste of these, including a picnic breakfast by the beach, and two candlelight dinner meals, one located on a pontoon near Pulau Renggis, and the other on the deck by the swimming pool with a beautiful view of the sunset. It’s because of little touches like these that Berjaya Tioman Resort recently won the HAPA Award under the category of “Best In Malaysia Island Discovery 2023/2024” and Resilience Winner. To find out more, or to book your own stay at Berjaya Tioman Resort, You can be sure you are in good hands at this award-winning resort. visit tioman.berjayahotel.com.
Luxury done right WHEN it comes to premium luxury SUV’s, the old guards from Germany and Sweden have been undisputed for eons. The Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5 and the Volvo XC90 are so deeply entrenched in their segments that some blindly swear by them. A quick glance through any car forum will verify that claim, but blind loyalty can be a very bad thing. Take the Lexus RX350 for example – a car so brilliant and so detailed that it makes the Europeans seem like newcomers to the arena. Lexus has been at the premium car game for as long as any of us care to remember. It is Toyota’s luxury division and was formed in the 1980s to compete in the American car market at a time where the perception of Japanese cars was not that great. To tackle that perception, Japanese car makers created subdivisions that focused on luxury and comfort and perhaps even size as well as Japanese cars were cheap and on the smaller side as compared to their American counterparts. To counter this, Japanese car makers needed to create sub divisions that could take on the American establishment. So, Toyota created Lexus, Honda created Acura and Nissan created Infiniti. Lexus took the American market by storm with its attention to detail, craftsmanship and engineering. It created cars that put the American and European companies to shame and the rest as they say is history. The Lexus RX350 is a byproduct of that commitment to perfection that first took the world by storm over 30 years ago. It too features details that others simply do not think or care about. Take the door latches for example. The RX350 features a double latch door system that not only makes the car safer in the event of a side collision but holds the door closer to the body of the car. This in turn creates smoother air flow around the car which in turn reduces turbulent wind that ultimately results in a quieter interior. In a first for its segment in Malaysia, that same door latch is part of a safety system called the “e-latch”. This works in conjunction with a system called Safe Exit Assist. This system detects any oncoming obstacles such as a car, motorcycles, cyclists or even a jogger and prevents the door from opening until the object is safely away from the vehicle, making it safer for the occupant of the car to exit. In terms of design, the RX350 is unmistakably a Lexus. It may look like a bigger NX but that is not necessarily a bad thing because the new NX is a good-looking car from all angles. The design of the new RX though may be similar in proportions but it is a bigger car than its predecessor. Though the overall length of the car remains the same, the wheelbase of the new RX is now longer by 60mm. This was achieved by pushing the rear wheels backwards to give the car a shorter overhang at the back. This resulted in more leg space for the rear passengers as well as more booth space as well. With the rear seats folded down, which can be done at a press of a button, Lexus says the RX is able to accommodate four full sizes golf bags. The car is also wider and taller than before but yet sits 15mm closer to the ground to give it better handling at high speed. In terms of design though, the biggest update is quite obviously the massive front grille. Called the Spindle Grille, it first made its debut 10 years ago and redefined the Lexus design language. Back then, the grille featured a chrome housing that separated the grille from the body. With the new RX, the overall design of the grille remains largely the same but instead of standing out, it merges with the rest of the body and features little hexagonal patterns that seem to simply fade away into the body. If you are thinking that it looks similar to that of the Chery Omoda, some members of the media thought so too. So it beckons the question – who did it first? That would require an entirely different article. Inside the RX350, the co*ckpit is a mixture of awe and subdued luxury. When you first step in, it does not captivate you like its European competitors, but you will notice that everything is angled at the driver. You feel in control and New Lexus R350 ups the ante on Mercedes, BMW and Volvo ON FRIDAY MAY 26, 2023 ► Contributing Editor: KESHY DHILLON / [emailprotected] ► Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 / +6012-580 3470 ► To advertise email: [emailprotected] SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, turbocharged Power: 279PS@6000rpm Torque: 430Nm@1700rpm Gearbox: 8-speed automatic Suspension: Adaptive Variable Suspension Great design, comfortable interior. Dark interior with black trimming. The 2.4-litre turbocharged engine produces 279PS and 430Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 8-speed auto gearbox. █ KESHY DHILLON
part of the car. Having the driver feel as if he were in total control of the car is part of the Lexus concept called Tazuna. Lexus says the Tazuna concept is inspired by the interaction between a jockey and his race horse. This is basically a harmonious connection between man and beast that allows the jockey to be gracefully in control of the horse while looking ahead. In the RX, the Tazuna concept is translated to the co*ckpit where there is an intuitive connection between the driver and vehicle. The design of the co*ckpit places all driving related functionalities within the reach of the driver, while providing excellent forward visibility. So the interior of the RX does not immediately awe you, but take some time to absorb everything and you will appreciate how the RX places the driver at the very core of the Lexus driving experience. Having said that though, the interior does feel a little subdued as there are too many black panels to actually warrant the word luxury. But take a closer look and you will realise the door panels are covered in a suede like material that feels supple. The interior trimming consists of ash open pore wood trim which simply blends into the darkness of the interior rather than standing out. A brighter colour would have offered a welcomed contrast and sparked the imagination a little better. But quality is top notch, just as you would expect of a Lexus. There was no rattling or buzzing over every type of road surface and at high or low speed. There is also very little tyre noise that intrudes back into the cabin. This is kept to minimal levels thanks to the Active Noise Control technology. This tech works in conjunction with the speaker systems and emits noise cancellation frequency which cancels unwanted ambient sound, keeping the interior quiet and fuss free. Dominating the dashboard is a 14-inch centre display that is touch enabled. This replaces the archaic and unloved Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) which basically worked like a mouse pad. The new touch screen is worlds better than the RTI and even offers wireless Apple CarPlay. The software too is easy to use and does not require a degree in computing just to operate the entertainment system. It is through the touch screen system that the driver accesses the three driving modes – Eco, Normal and Sport. Each adjusts the adaptive suspension, steering feel and accelerator sensitivity to either transform the ride into a supple, comfortable one, or a sportier one with a stiffer suspension setting. Driving the RX350 is better done in Normal, though the car does feel more aggressive in sport and the 2.4-litre turbocharged engine feels more alive. It does not have the connectedness that its European counterparts offer. Its 279PS does give it a spirited acceleration and the 430Nm of torque also gives it a proper punch at lower speed, but handling is numb. The eight-speed automatic gearbox downshifts rather slow as it sends power to all four wheels. Even in sport mode, the steering feels like it is better oriented for a laid back drive and does not make you feel connected to the front wheels. It may have the power, but a 0-100kph acceleration figure of 7.6 seconds is hardly inspiring in today’s age of sub-five second acceleration. But this is hardly surprising, the Lexus RX350 Luxury is better oriented for comfort and to bask you in quiet subdued luxury. Driving aggressively is too much to ask of it but that is not what it is made for in the first place. Take it easy and the passengers will thank you as the rear passengers bask in the ventilated and reclinable seats and the front passenger relaxes in the Lexus comfort seat. At RM468,888, it does offer a great alternative to the Mercedes GLE and a brilliant choice for those who do not want the hybrid powertrains of the BMW X5 and the Volvo XC90. And besides, the Lexus aftersales service is legendary and perhaps even better than what the Europeans can muster. 7 MAY 26, 2023 The co*ckpit of the RX350 is angled towards the driver, giving the feeling of maximum control at all times. The 14-inch entertainment system is known as the Electro Multi Vision and houses all the onboard entertainment and GPS systems. The Digital Meter Panel is adaptable to give the driver all the information or minimised to keep it clean and simple. Steering wheel buttons are neatly laid out and easy to use, quality is top notch too. The DRL lights of the RX are similar in design to the NX, making it difficult to distinguish one from another. The rear seats of the Lexus RX350 are reclinable and spacious, making the RX ideal for families. Rear passengers don’t only get their own air-conditioning vents but will also enjoy ventilated as well as heated seats. The updated electronic gear selector is similar to the one in the NX and is easy and intuitive to use.
THE BMW Group presented its BMW Concept Touring Coupe for the first time at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, said to be the most high profile luxury automotive event. The closed two-seater, which was created for a single piece of manufacture, carries on the legacy of iconic BMW classics. From the front, the two-door fastback resembles the recently updated Z4 roadster almost identically. However, the quarter-front perspective reveals a completely different design: sleek and powerful, the restyled silhouette proves to be a classic attention-getter. From the side, the coupe features a long roof that blends with a beautifully sculpted, nearly vertical hatch in place of the customary canvas top. BMW calls its newest product “Touring Coupe” even though it is essentially a shooting brake, in order to pay homage to the very first touring model introduced in 1971, which was based on the 02 series. For added depth and lustre, small glass shards have been blended into the custom paint. It is essentially a Z4 M40i with the electronically retractable fabric roof removed to make place for a hardtop. The visually wellbalanced two-seater nevertheless has a cohesive appearance despite the fact that the display car has been totally redesigned from the B-pillar rearward. The tail of the coupe appears more attractive and useful than the Z4’s short, crowded back end. The kidney grilles and tailpipes are coated in matte bronze, as is the signature BMW Hofmeister kink visible in the side profile. With the bulging hatch below and the full-width drag-cutting and downforce-enhancing spoiler that the progressively descending roofline ends in, the car looks quick even when parked. The 21-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero tyres sit flush with the protruding rear fenders. Up front, it rides on 20-inch wheels. PERFORMANCE Although its chiselled exterior gives the impression that it might eat an M4 for breakfast, BMW’s engineering equipped the coupe with a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine that produces 340 horsepower and is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission for the European market. The suspension is a carryover item from the Z4 that has not changed. INTERIOR The co*ckpit features leather trim on every wall, as you might anticipate. The tri-tone colour combination combines a brownish grey with a saddle-tone ochre in the middle and striking black accents. The soft cowskin was donated by the renowned furniture maker Poltrona Frau, and the leather is braided in a very intricate pattern that is reminiscent of the baseball pattern used on the original Audi TT roadster. The special baggage created by the renowned Schedoni leather workshop in Modena for the BMW Concept Touring Coupe exhibits the same high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The specially constructed set includes a garment bag, two large weekender bags, and one compact weekender bag, and they are all precisely matched to the car. The question now is, is there enough demand in the markets for a new variation of a model that isn’t exactly flying off the shelves? 8 MAY 26, 2023 Eradicating irregularities Daihatsu to fully clarify and identify root cause of Crash Gate scandal THE Daihatsu Crash Gate scandal last month revealed a number of irregularities about the Japanese car maker. The scandal was hugely embarrassing for the company and for its parent company Toyota. But the company is committed to eradicating any and all forms or irregularities from its business, according to a report uploaded to its website which says that Daihatsu has expressed its sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused by its actions, and shipments and sales have resumed at destinations where safety has been confirmed under the supervision of government certification and inspection agencies in each country where the products are to be sold. Daihatsu feels that these procedural flaws in car safety are socially unacceptable. The frontline in this case spoke up in the form of a whistleblowing report. Daihatsu feels that these anomalies happened due to management’s inability to respond to the frontline, jeopardising compliance and the development of a strong corporate culture. As a result, the corporation lost sight of proper automobile manufacturing, resulting in such abnormalities by creating a situation in which the frontline had no alternative. Daihatsu will work tirelessly to change the company so that the same mistakes do not occur again. Daihatsu will ensure that these errors are not just a single business act, but rather a reform that is tied to the corporate group’s concept and action standards. Management will immediately prioritise communication with the front lines and create an environment in which people can speak openly and honestly. Daihatsu announced the formation of an Independent Third-Party Committee comprised of legal and technical experts from outside sources. The following is the outline of the Independent Third-Party Committee, which will be independent and will meticulously explore the underlying cause of the anomalies. Daihatsu plans to fully cooperate with the inquiries of the Independent ThirdParty Committee. Reasons for establishing the Independent Third-Party Committee: » Daihatsu intends to fully clarify the nature of the irregularities, identify their root cause, and implement measures to prevent recurrence. The composition of the Independent ThirdParty Committee: » Committee Chair: Makoto Kaiami, lawyer at Otemachi Law Office (Former President, Tokyo District Court and Presiding Judge, Tokyo High Court); » Committee member: Hidetaka Nishina, partner, lawyer at NAKAMURA, TSUNODA & MATSUMOTO; » Committee member: Kanji Nakayama, director at the Automobile Information Network Association (Former DirectorGeneral, Engineering and Safety Department, Road Transport Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism). Daihatsu has ordered the Independent Third-Party Committee to conduct all necessary investigations, report the findings, and recommend actions to prevent similar irregularities from occurring again. Upon receipt of the reports, the corporation will promptly disclose them and take all other necessary actions. █ TIMOTHY PRAKASH Power-crazed farewell for Audi RS3’s 2.5L five-cylinder engine BEFORE going plug-in hybrid and eventually entirely electric by 2030, Audi plans to deliver a more potent version of its legendary five-cylinder engine. The head of Audi Sport, Sebastian Grams, has disclosed that the company is still working on a final iteration of the engine and will boost its power for the following stage. The 5-cylinder engine will be upgraded in the upcoming years, according to Grams. He did not give any specifics regarding the enhancements, although he did say that the engine does not need to be changed entirely. The 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbo engine is currently only offered in the RS3 in the US. However, in other areas, it is also present in the RS Q3 and the TT RS. It remains to be known how much farther Audi engineers can push the engine, which currently makes 401hp and 500Nm of torque in the RS3. However, it is evident that Audi is dedicated to giving clients sports sedans that are even more potent and thrilling. In addition to the five-cylinder engine, improvements for the RS6 Avant model are also being planned by Audi. According to Grammes, the company is constantly working to get the most out of its technologies and the RS6 Avant might be made even more powerful and performance-focused. Despite the lack of specifics on these improvements, a more powerful RS6 Avant might emerge in 2024. Overall, it appears that Audi is prepared to carry on its tradition of creating highperformance vehicles that are both thrilling to drive and aesthetically stunning with fresh modifications planned for both the five-cylinder engine and the RS6 Avant. BMW’s clown shoe returns Ora Good Cat now available in Pistachio Green THE Ora Good Cat in Pistachio Green was introduced by Great Wall Motor (GWM) during their exhibition in Sunway Velocity Mall recently. The Ora Good Cat in Pistachio Green, a colourful addition to the world of automotive excellence, received 20 bookings on the first day, signalling how well received it has become. This response demonstrates the fascinating allure and attractiveness of this electric vehicle. The whimsical and distinctive pattern of this shade, which is only offered in the 500 Ultra variant, is sure to steal the show and leave a lasting impression. The Pistachio Green exterior and two-tone greenbeige inside of this Ora Good Cat make it unique as compared to the other models. An inviting interior is created by the comfy seats, which have a cute paw-shaped pattern on the middle armrest, the air conditioning vent cover in a bright orange shade, and the pistachio green and beige steering wheel. A Houndstooth pattern is woven into the front and back seats to provide a touch of class. It has a front-wheel drive, a front-axle electric motor, and a 63.1kwh ternary lithium battery at 500km per charge and maximum speed of 152kph. It also comes with six airbags, variable speed control, a panoramic 360° camera for a cat’s eye view, stability control and cutting-edge driving assistance systems, automated cruise control, collision warning, and emergency braking. The new Pistachio Green colour, which is available on the more expensive 500 Ultra variant and costs RM169,800 on-the-road without insurance. The base 400 Pro variant costs RM139,800. New tyres from Toyo for Malaysia! TOYO TYRES MALAYSIA has introduced its latest variant to an already impressive line up of variants. Called the Proxes Sport 2 and OPA/T 3, these cuttingedge tyres were created using the most recent tyre technology to cater to a variety of driving enthusiasts while providing great performance, safety, and longevity. Proxes Sport 2’s precision handling and superb wet grip distinguish it from its predecessor. The tyre manufacturer says drivers can easily traverse turns thanks to the tyre’s precision handling, and its remarkable wet grip offers superior traction on wet roads, offering optimal safety and stability even in inclement weather. This is achieved with a new asymmetrical design pattern that gives it good dry and wet grip. The Proxes Sport 2 is additionally constructed with advanced components that enhance performance. A suitable compound was used in the tyre construction, giving drivers a balanced grip for a secure driving experience. It offers a diverse range of sizes that fit the Csegment (including the small executive category) to the F-segment classes. It is available in 31 sizes. Proxes Sport 2 tyres are available for purchase by Malaysian customers at any Toyo Centre, with pricing per tyre ranging from RM700 to RM1,300, depending on size. Besides the Proxes Sport 2, Toyo Tyres Malaysia also introduced the Open Country A/T III (OPA/T 3), an allterrain tyre with more lateral grooves for greater offroad traction even in difficult conditions. The OPA/T 3 is available in 14 sizes, with prices ranging from RM500 to RM1,200 per tyre, depending on the size.
KLCI 1,402.48 STI 3,207.72 HANG SENG 18,746.92 SCI 3,201.26 NIKKEI 30,801.13 12.76 TSEC 16,292.00 132.68 KOSPI 2,554.69 S&P/ASX200 7,138.20 118.45 FRIDAY MAY 26, 2023 Editorial Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [emailprotected] Advertising Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [emailprotected] 5 MOST ACTIVES May 25, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) VELESTO 100,372,800 22.5 -3.0 BAHVEST 81,023,600 18.5 -0.5 PARKSON 68,744,700 16.0 +1.0 HSI-COO 67,176,300 9.5 -3.5 WIDAD 44,248,800 43.0 +0.5 EXCHANGERATES MAY 25, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.6780 4.5420 4.5120 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0760 2.9530 2.9480 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4640 3.3630 3.3490 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4380 3.3450 3.3320 1 EURO 5.0370 4.8730 4.8460 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.8640 2.7580 2.7620 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4640 3.3630 3.3490 1 STERLING POUND 5.7920 5.6070 5.5960 1 SWISS FRANC 5.1570 5.0360 5.0190 100 UAE DIRHAM 128.9500 122.2200 121.0600 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.4390 4.1630 3.9450 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 66.3000 63.8000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 60.4300 57.4100 56.6900 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.7500 5.4000 5.1500 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0325 0.0294 0.0242 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.3620 3.2550 3.2470 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 16.3000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.6600 1.5500 1.3500 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.5200 8.0300 7.7600 100 QATAR RIYAL 129.8600 123.2700 121.7300 100 SAUDI RIYAL 126.1600 119.7700 118.6400 100 THAI BAHT 14.0900 12.5000 12.0600 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY May 25, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,284.40 -56.07 FBMKLCI 1,402.48 -7.14 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 563.46 -1.77 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 164.14 +0.14 CONSTRUCTION 157.53 -1.49 FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,318.40 -30.90 ENERGY 818.76 -11.38 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 592.55 -3.59 HEALTH CARE 1,850.21 -54.38 TRANSPORTATION 901.36 -5.05 PROPERTY 687.07 +1.14 PLANTATION 6,805.75 -130.90 FBMSHA 10,644.10 -72.69 FBMACE 4,944.19 -3.61 TECHNOLOGY 57.20 +0.23 TURNOVER VALUE 2.360 BIL RM1.627 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS May 25, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM MPI 116,200 25.72 +0.42 SAM 564,500 4.40 +0.41 RAPID 37,800 20.40 +0.28 NVIDIA-C1 6,901,700 1.04 +0.255 HEIM 108,900 26.74 +0.22 5 TOP LOSERS May 25, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM KLK 1,100,400 21.78 -0.76 PETDAG 177,000 22.00 -0.34 HSI-CL1 70,900 0.675 -0.25 KESM 6,400 6.81 -0.25 F&N 57,300 25.98 -0.24 Ministry tells financing, investment bodies to help fund M’sian space-related industries LANGKAWI: The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (Mosti) has called on finance and investment bodies to open their doors to funding space-related industries in Malaysia. Deputy Minister Datuk Arthur Joseph Kurup said the call was made due to limited government financing for the sectors as of now, and other funding mechanisms such as venture capital, public-private partnership (PPP), a competitive financing instruments, and crowdfunding will all be helpful in realising the nation’s space aspirations. “These financial mechanisms can be used to catalyse the local space industry. In 2021 alone, records have shown that the public and private markets put US$10 billion (RM46 billion) of fresh capital to work in space companies. “The growing interest to pursue spin-offs, partnerships, and private-investment rounds are what fuel the interest of the public and private market to fund these companies’ product road map, thus accelerating innovation and providing more competition among companies,” he said in his keynote address at the Langkawi International Space Forum 2023 here yesterday. The forum is in conjunction with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition 2023. Arthur said reports have shown that the global space economy recorded a tremendous growth of approximately US$447 billion, up from US$280 billion in 2010, and is expected to grow to US$1 trillion by 2030. “Therefore, it is time for finance and investment bodies to consider space as the country’s new economic source. Financial innovation is a must for the space industry. “New funding mechanisms such as competitive grants, debt financing, risksharing mechanisms and tax incentives can attract local and foreign players to contribute or establish businesses here,” he said. Commenting on the Space Industry Strategic Plan 2030 launched yesterday, Arthur said the plan has outlined a few initiatives to be implemented with the goal to create a sustainable funding and investment ecosystem to promote space commercialisation. He also urged insurance and lawmakers to catch up with the development to ensure the new era of space innovations reaches its full potential while also stressing the need to have a legal and regulatory framework on the governance of space for safety, political and defence reasons. “The legal framework will also make investors and financial institutions comfortable with lending and get insurers comfortable insuring. It will help to reduce risk in participation.” he said. – Bernama Affin Bank prepares to face global headwinds KUALA LUMPUR: Affin Bank Bhd is strengthening its risk management strategies and optimising asset quality in anticipation of upcoming global headwinds, according to its president and group CEO Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah (pic). Wan Razly said that the bank is aware of significant headwinds coming into this financial year and is actively working to lower its risk appetite. “We see the US and Europe market slowing down, with a strong likelihood of a recession in both regions. This will have a knock on effect on Asia and also Malaysia in the second half of the year. “(To mitigate these risks) we are on a journey to lower our risk appetite. So everything we do is to de-risk the bank,” he told a press conference after its AGM yesterday. Additionally, Affin Bank forecast a slowing down of its loan growth to between 10% and 11% for financial year 2023 (FY23). “We still see a lot of business opportunities in Malaysia. But we will taper down our growth to not as high as 15%, maybe low single digits, within 10%-11% or the highest single digits level, depending on how severe the slowdown or recession will impact the US and Europe,” he said. Wan Razly commented that it will be challenging for Malaysian banks to grow their net interest margin (NIM) this year, and they will need to focus on reducing the cost of funds. The bank anticipates a 7% oLender to focus on strengthening risk management strategies and optimising asset quality █ BY HAYATUN RAZAK [emailprotected] return on equity (ROE) in the near term, with a potential increase of up to 10% by 2025. “I think it will be a long year. Every month we hear news of inflation going up. We hear some countries in the world are increasing interest rates, and so forth. So we must buckle down and strengthen ourselves. And that’s what we’re doing. We’re investing in systems for better service. And we’re preparing the bank and our balance sheet to be resilient,” he said. He said Affin Bank has demonstrated substantial improvement in its asset quality, marked by a significant decrease in gross impaired loans and the bad loans ratio. “You can see our improvement in terms of our gross impaired loans and the bad loans ratio, which has significantly decreased. Currently, we are below 2%, whereas previously it was at three and a half percent. So that is a huge improvement in terms of asset quality. Furthermore, we are tightening our underwriting standards to avoid a repeat of bad loans (like) in the past. “We have also allocated significant reserves in terms of provisions. Currently, our loan loss coverage provision is above 100%, serving as buffers to protect us from any future headwinds,” he said. Wan Razly mentioned that Affin has been working on increasing its Casa ratio and, although they have been lagging behind in this aspect, the bank has been one of the fastest in terms of growth. Currently, their Casa ratio stands at 23.5%, and their goal is to reach 25% by the end of this year and 30% by 2025. “We have a number of plans in terms of Casa. One of them involves basically our mobile banking app. We believe that the new app will be exciting for our customers and they will enjoy using our mobile banking app. That is another customer proposition that will boost our Casa ratio. “All banks are competitive, so you need to have a value proposition. We have three value propositions. One is our unrivaled customer service. So you look at our NPS (net promoter score), you know it has improved tremendously from where we were in the past. We are now at 40 points NPS score, we want to push it to 50 points NPS score. “And we want to be a leader in terms of digital. This is a new area where we aim to establish ourselves and build our brand. We have invested 400 million, with 80% allocated to IT infrastructure, to strengthen our digital position for the future,” he said. 7.14 6.49 369.01 3.49 75.60 Participation 42.8 27.6 29.6 100.0 Institutions Retail Foreign Bought RM m 696.2 463.2 468.4 1627.8 Sold RM m 698.5 435.3 494.0 1627.8 Net RM m -2.3 27.9 -25.6 0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 25/05/2023
10 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 SUNBIZ Ekuinas portfolio companies post impressive FY22 results KUALA LUMPUR: Government linked private equity fund Ekuiti Nasional Bhd (Ekuinas) portfolio companies posted a 30.2% and 31.3% growth in revenue and earnings before interest, tax and depreciation (Ebitda) for financial year 2022 (FY22). The fund which was founded in 2009, released its FY22 annual report yesterday. Through Ekuinas’ investments, bumiputera equity ownership increased to RM6.5 billion, or 1.6 times the capital invested and total shareholders’ value grew to RM8.2 billion, translating to 2.1 times the capital invested. In addition, bumiputera participation in management at portfolio companies grew by 21.9% since Ekuinas’ entry. On fund performance, the private equity firm said its Ekuinas Direct (Tranche II) Fund recorded a Gross Portfolio Return (GPR) of RM716.6 million, and a Gross Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 11.9% per annum (p.a.), which was an increase from RM654.0 million recorded in the previous year. Meanwhile, Ekuinas Direct (Tranche IV) Fund recorded a GPR of 91.1 million and IRR of 77.2%, while Ekuinas Direct (Tranche III) Fund delivered a GPR of RM133.5 million and IRR of 3.1%. As for its outsourced investments, Ekuinas Outsourced (Tranche I) Fund saw improvements with an IRR of 4.1% as compared to 2021 performance of 3.3%. On the other Syed Yasir Arafat (left) and Arshad displaying Ekuinas’ FY22 annual report. oRevenue and earnings before interest, tax and depreciation up 30.2%, 31.3% respectively █ BYRANJIT SINGH [emailprotected] hand, Ekuinas Outsourced (Tranche II) Fund performance remained subdued with a negative IRR of 2.7%, down from negative IRR of 0.8% in 2021. Ekuinas chairman Raja Tan Sri Arshad Raja Tun Uda said the firm encountered headwinds in 2022. “In 2022, especially the second half, saw macroeconomic headwinds and subdued sentiment – a trend we see will sustain well into 2023. While global geopolitical conflict remains unresolved, businesses continue to forge ahead, focussing on operational excellence, resilience, and agility, mindful that disruptions are to be expected and energy shifts, climate change, decarbonising of our economies and food security continue to gain momentum,” said Arshad. Commenting on Ekuinas’ performance, Arshad, commented, “Despite the uncertain economic environment, Ekuinas continued to deliver on our mandate to increase Bumiputera wealth creation through equity and participation and elevate Malaysian companies to their next phase of growth. “Both Ekuinas’ direct and outsourced funds successfully increased bumiputera equity ownership to the tune of RM6.5 billion, the equivalent of 1.6 times the capital invested. There was also an increase of 21.9% in bumiputera management across its portfolio companies since Ekuinas’ entry, while total shareholders’ value increased to RM8.2 billion or 2.1 times the capital invested.” In FY22, Ekuinas acquired a controlling stake in Xenergi Sdn Bhd, as a bolt on investment for portfolio company Davex. Ekuinas also incorporated Dana ASAS, a RM100 million fund with deal ticket size of RM10 million to RM30 million, aimed at high potential mid-market bumiputera companies. Ekuinas CEO Syed Yasir Arafat Syed Abd Kadir said, “Value creation continues to be a core component of Ekuinas’ efforts to deliver value and catalyse growth in portfolio companies through customised approaches that address each company’s unique opportunities and challenges. “Ekuinas leveraged on digitalisation as the backbone for boosting operational efficiency and enhancing innovation. These initiatives have resulted in the rapid growth in revenue and Ebitda for our portfolio companies, strengthening their profitability and competitiveness.” He said that the oil & gas, logistics, retail and healthcare sectors drove Ekuinas’ performance in FY 2022 and that the deals pipeline is expected to be healthy for 2023. Malaysia’s Leading Index slips 1.2% in March from a year ago KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s Leading Index (LI) decreased by 1.2% to 110.1 points in March 2023, from 111.4 points in March 2022, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM). In a statement yesterday, the department said that based on the LI, which shows where the economy is heading in the near term, Malaysia’s economy may grow at a slower pace in the third quarter of 2023. “The LI performance was weighed down by significant decreases in real imports of semiconductors and the Bursa Malaysia Industrial Index. “The monthly LI also weakened by 1.1% in March 2023, compared to 2.9% in the previous month, attributed by expected sales value, manufacturing (- 0.6%) and real imports of other basic precious & other non-ferrous metals (- 0.5%),” it said. Looking at the smoothed long-term trend in March 2023, DoSM said the LI recorded 99.3 points from 99.2 points in February 2023. “Although it remained below the trend of 100.0 points, the economy is anticipated to grow modestly in the near term. “The expectation is in view of global headwinds and domestic uncertainties,” it said. Meanwhile, the coincident index (CI), which reflects the current economic condition, rose 3.4% to 121.9 points in March 2023 (March 2022: 117.9 points). “The increase was contributed by all components except capacity utilisation and manufacturing. “Concomitantly, the monthly CI also recorded an increase of 0.2%, supported mainly by volume index of retail trade (0.3%),” it added. – Bernama Niro Ceramic aims to launch IPO in mid-2024, use proceeds to enhance growth opportunities KUALA LUMPUR: The Niro Ceramic Group plans to launch its initial public offering (IPO) in mid2024 and utilise the proceeds raised for the company’s strategic initiatives to the bottom line and accelerate sales growth. Without disclosing the amount the company plans to raise, managing director Ian Kok said the tile maker and distributor is looking forward to being listed on the main board as it foresees valuable longterm value for Niro Ceramic’s trajectory. “The capital generated from the IPO will primarily be directed towards key areas such as distribution, marketing, and product development. “Our intention is to maximise the value of these funds and strategically allocate them to areas that will supplement our growth, enhance our competitive advantage, and ultimately benefit our shareholders,” he told Bernama. Kok shared that being a listed company would allow Niro Ceramic to boost substantial capital from the public market to help finance and diversify growth opportunities. He said that although the company would be required to comply with stringent regulatory requirements to become a listed company, the steps helped fortify transparency and corporate governance. “As a long-term result, the reputation of Niro Ceramic amplified and helped to draw in more distinguished investors. “The IPO exercise also brings Niro Ceramic to the forefront, enhances brand visibility and industry acknowledgement, strengthening its position as a leading brand in the Malaysian ceramic industry,” he said. As to environmentally, socially, and governance (ESG) compliant Kok said, “First and foremost, it must be a top-down strategy, with leadership taking ownership of this effort. From here, we will get into the finer elements of what we can do to keep in step with ESG criteria.” He added that among the measures Niro Ceramic took towards sustainability is powering its Shah Alam headquarters with solar energy. He said that as ESG requirements get more stringent and demanding, the group is triggering many efforts linked to cost savings and energy efficiency. Research firms maintain ‘outperform’ call on Maybank KUALA LUMPUR: Public Investment Bank (PIB) has retained an ‘outperform’ call on Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank), although it was somewhat wary over the mixed operational performance of the first quarter 2023, despite an economicallystrong quarter for the country, with a target price (TP) of RM7.90. In a research note, PIB maintained its estimates on Maybank but cautioned for potential downward revisions should operating conditions deteriorate in the near term. “Challenges notwithstanding, we continue to like the group’s prospects, underpinned by its M25+ initiatives.” Similarly, Kenanga Research, in its note, also maintained an ‘outperform’ call with a TP of RM10.10. It opined that Maybank will deliver moderate income growth on less aggressive loan growth and interest margin suppression compared with preceding years. “That said, improving asset outlook and the lapse of Prosperity Tax should sustain earnings delivery, barring possible positive surprises should writeback of provisions finally materialise,” it said. Kenanga Research said it expects Maybank to provide the most sustainable returns via its consistent market-leading dividend yields of seven to eight per cent. “This is further secured by the group’s long-term vision to ensure operational sustainability remains in check and affirms its leading position in the market,” it added. – Bernama SKS Airways selects Embraer E195-E2 to propel expansion LANGKAWI: Malaysia’s new commercial carrier, SKS Airways, has entered into strategic partnerships with two leading aviation players, Embraer Commercial Aviation and Azorra Aviation Holdings, to lease 10 Embraer E195-E2s. The deals were sealed at the 16th Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition 2023. Based on the list price of an E195- E2, the 10 jets are worth more than US$840 million and will pave the way for SKS Airways to unlock new growth opportunities in the region. The E195-E2s will form the core of SKS Airways’ expansion plans and will be based at Subang Airport from 2024. The E195-E2 jet is the world’s most efficient single-aisle aircraft with the lowest fuel and noise emissions. It has a range of 2,600nm, the equivalent of about seven hours of flight. The airline’s E195-E2 will be configured with a seating capacity for 136 passengers. The aircraft are scheduled to be delivered to SKS Airways from January 2024. SKS Airways will be the first operator of the Embraer E195-E2 in Southeast Asia. SKS Airways director Datuk Rohman Ahmad (right)a nd Azorra Aviation CEO John Evans signing the aircraft leasing agreement yesterday.
11 * SUNBIZ @thesundaily theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME PETALING JAYA: For the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, Public Bank Group recorded pre-tax profit growth of 10.4% to RM2.21 billion, compared with the corresponding quarter in 2022. Net profit grew at a higher rate of 22.6% to RM1.71 billion during the same period, due to the prosperity tax imposed in the previous corresponding period. Public Bank managing director and CEO Tan Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek (pic) commented, “The Public Bank Group continued to navigate through the challenges in the evolving operating environment and demonstrated resilience in its first quarter 2023 performance, which was mainly supported by commendable net interest income growth and lower loan impairment allowances.” Net interest income increased by 7.4%, mainly led by healthy loans and deposits growth which expanded at an annualised growth rate of 5.0% and 9.1% respectively. Coupled with lower impairment allowances during the quarter, the group sustained a resilient net return on equity of 13.6%. Despite high inflationary pressure, increase in operating expenses was well under control at 4.7%, underpinned by the group’s prudent cost management. As a result, the group continued to achieve an efficient cost-toincome ratio of 33.1% in the first quarter of 2023. Asset quality remained stable with a low gross impaired loans ratio of 0.5%. Loan impairment allowances were lower by 98.5% to RM1.5 million from RM99.7 million in the corresponding quarter of 2022. During the first quarter ended March 2023, the Public Bank Group maintained a healthy loan growth momentum at an annualised growth rate of 5.0% to RM381.6 billion, largely supported by the domestic loan portfolios which grew by an annualised rate of 5.4% to RM356.8 billion. Domestic loan growth was mainly contributed by residential properties financing, hire purchase financing as well as SME financing, which grew at an annualised rate of 6.1%, 11.5% and 2.7% respectively. This has sustained the group’s leading market share in the residential properties financing, hire purchase financing and domestic SME lending, which stood at 20.6%, 30.4% and 19.0% respectively. The group’s funding and liquidity position remained healthy, supported by a commendable growth in customer deposits at an annualised rate of 9.1% to RM403.7 billion. Domestic deposits rose by 10.2% on an annualised basis to RM376.5 billion, attributable to the consistent growth in retail deposits. Reflecting its healthy balance sheet, the Public Bank Group continued to maintain a stable gross loan to fund and equity ratio of 80.4% as at the end of March 2023. In the first quarter of 2023, the Public Bank Group’s overseas operations contributed 8.1% to the group’s profit, mainly attributed to its Hong Kong and Indochina operations. Public Bank Vietnam and Cambodian Public Bank continued to deliver strong profit performance, as reflected in the respective double-digit profit growth of 24.5% and 59.8% year-on-year. Indochina will continue to be the group’s key focus growth area, with continued expansion of branch network as well as broadening of products and services. The group is targeting to open another eight new branches in Vietnam to reach a total of 40 branches by year end. However, the operating environment for the group’s Hong Kong operations remain uncertain and challenging despite the lifting of Covid-19 containment measures. Tan said, “The Public Bank Group is cognisant of the prevailing challenges and evolving landscape. The group will remain focused on cost discipline, preservation of sound asset quality and upholding strong corporate governance to safeguard its resilience against adversity. Notwithstanding, the group will continue to take a proactive approach in embracing growth opportunities arising from the growing economy, digital transformation as well as the growing ESG demand.” Public Bank reports Q1 pre-tax profit of RM2.21b oBetter performance supported by net interest income growth and lower loan impairment allowances LANGKAWI: Malaysia’s Gading Air Services Sdn Bhd has ordered an Airbus H125 helicopter in a contract signed at the ongoing Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023. Known as a multi-mission workhorse, the single-engine H125 will support utility and aerial work in Malaysia. The new H125 will be delivered by the end of 2023 and will join Gading’s all-Airbus fleet comprising an H120 and an H155. “We are impressed with the H125’s versatility and performance. Our new H125 will come with a full fitting of aerial and utility capabilities that will allow us to conduct a diverse range of missions. We are confident that the H125 will be a critical addition to our fleet as we expand our operations,” said its director, Datuk Shamsul Kamar Samsudin. “The H125 is a proven reference aircraft in the industry, with excellent reliability, low maintenance and low operating costs,” said Airbus Helicopters Malaysia managing director Axel de Pascal, adding that they are happy that Gading Air Services has chosen the perfect product to serve its various customers. The powerful, high performance H125 is a member of Airbus’ rugged and proven Ecureuil family. It is designed to carry out the most demanding missions in the most extreme weather and geographical conditions. Its exceptional lift capability, endurance, extended range and fast cruise speed make the H125 the leader in its class. Globally, there are close to 4,200 H125 family helicopters flying around the world in the most demanding conditions. The H125 is the absolute market leader in the intermediate single engine helicopter category, where it achieved a 63% market share in 2022. In Malaysia, more than 20 helicopters in the Ecureuil family are flying for passenger transport, private business aviation and utility missions. B R I E F S BUMI ARMADA’S EARNINGS IN FIRST QUARTER INCREASE TO RM201M PETALING JAYA: Bumi Armada Bhd’s net profit for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023 (Q1’23) rose to RM201.01 million from RM185.76 million in the corresponding period last year. Revenue for the quarter was higher at RM543.99 million from RM529.01 million a year ago, However, it was lower compared with Q4’22 mainly due to lower vessel availability for Armada Kraken FPSO and lower revenue from variation orders for Armada Olombendo FPSO. Operating profit before impairment was higher at RM263.4 million in Q1’23 compared with Q4’22. Cash flows remained robust with RM288.3 million generated from operating activities in Q1’23, which was used to further deleverage the balance sheet and reduce interest costs for the group. The project finance loan for Armada Kraken was fully repaid in March 2023, over three months ahead of schedule. The future firm order book at the end of Q1’23 amounted to RM11.1 billion, with additional optional extensions of up to RM9.3 billion. Commenting on the results, CEO Gary Christenson said, “Whilst this is a solid start to the year, we remain vigilant towards ensuring the stable operation of our vessels which drives our financial performance.” HENG HUAT RESOURCES REGISTERS HIGHER REVENUE, PROFIT IN Q4 PETALING JAYA: Heng Huat Resources Group Bhd posted revenue of RM34.26 million for its fourth quarter ended March 31, 2023, an increase of 12.23% compared with the corresponding quarter a year ago. For financial year 2023 (FY23), the company saw revenue of RM155.3 million, a 50.04% or RM51.80 million increase relative to the previous financial year. Heng Huat’s Q4 net profit jumped by 19.44% to RM9.27 million from RM7.76 million previously. Its net profit for FY23 jumped by 81.07% to RM26.66 million from RM14.73 million in FY22. Gading Air Services orders Airbus H125 helicopter for utility missions DKSH brings Paseo, Nice and Livi tissues to Malaysia PETALING JAYA: DKSH Business Unit Consumer Goods, a partner for companies seeking to grow their consumer goods business in Asia and beyond, has signed an exclusive agreement with Grand Universal Trading Sdn Bhd, a company under the trade name Asia Paper & Pulp Sinar Mas, to become the official distributor for three tissue brands – Paseo, Nice and Livi – in Malaysia. Under the agreement, DKSH Malaysia will provide full market expansion services, including marketing and sales, distribution and logistics, and after-sales services for the Paseo, Nice, and Livi brands across modern and traditional retail channels, pharmacies, and food services channels in Peninsular Malaysia. Grand Universal Trading Sdn Bhd country head, Malaysia, Steve Tan said, “Through our partnership with DKSH, we aim to grow our market share in the tissue category and to make our products more accessible to our target consumers. With DKSH’s expertise and support, we can improve our distribution, visibility, and availability, ensuring that our superior tissue products are made available to Malaysians.” Puneet Mishra, head country management and vice- president, FMCG, DKSH Malaysia, said, “It is our honour to have been entrusted by the largest pulp and paper integrated producer in Asia to accelerate their growth mission. At DKSH, we are fully committed to driving market penetration of the three brands Paseo, Nice, and Livi to Malaysian consumers by leveraging on our local market insights and extensive distribution network, ultimately fulfilling our purpose of enriching people’s lives.” Khazanah prices dual-tranche senior offerings at US$1.5b KUALA LUMPUR: Khazanah Nasional Bhd has successfully priced a US$1.5 billion dualtranche senior offering, comprising a five-year US$750 million (RM3.45 billion) sukuk due 2028 and a 10-year US$750 million conventional bond due 2033. The issuance marked its first US dollarrated sukuk and corporate bond out of its newly established US$5 billion Multicurrency Sukuk Issuance Programme and US$10.0 billion Euro Medium Term Note Programme through its wholly owned special purpose vehicles, Khazanah Global Sukuk Bhd and Khazanah Capital Ltd. Khazanah’s last issuance was the unrated US$1 billion sukuk in 2021. In a statement yesterday, managing director Datuk Amirul Feisal Wan Zahir said the overwhelming and widespread reception of its maiden rated sukuk and bond underlined investors’ continuous confidence in its creditworthiness and long-term strategy, amplifying Khazanah’s standing in the global capital markets. “The issuance, which is carried out amidst volatile market conditions, will be the benchmark for Khazanah’s credit as we continue to rebalance our portfolio and strengthen our balance sheet,” he said. Amirul Feisal said the proceeds will be used for Khazanah’s general investments, refinancing of borrowings and working capital requirements. The securities will be listed on Bursa Malaysia Securities (under an Exempt Regime), Labuan International Financial Exchange Inc and the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Ltd. BofA Securities, CIMB, DBS Bank Ltd, J.P. Morgan, Maybank, MUFG Bank and OCBC Bank acted as joint lead managers and joint bookrunners. – Bernama JAKARTA: The world's two biggest palm oil producers, Indonesia and Malaysia will send top officials to the European Union (EU) next week to voice concern over a new deforestation law they believe could be detrimental to small farming businesses. Indonesia and Malaysia accounts for about 85% of global palm oil exports and the EU is their third-largest market. The European Parliament approved a landmark deforestation law last month to ban imports into the EU of coffee, beef, soy and other commodities unless companies could provide “verifiable” information the products were not grown on land that was deforested after 2020. Those in violation would face hefty fines. Indonesia and Malaysia both confirmed the visit to Brussels would take place on May 30 and May 31. Both have accused the EU of discriminatory policies targeting palm oil and Malaysia had previously said it could stop exporting it to the EU over the deforestation law. Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto said the law would burden smallholders with onerous administrative procedures. Airlangga will make the Brussels trip with Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister and Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. – Reuters M’sia, Indonesia to meet EU on deforestation law
12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 SUNBIZ Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesundaily.my/ Vietnam’s VinFast recalls first batch of US-bound EVs over safety risk B R I E F SGRAB CO-FOUNDER TO EXIT OPERATIONAL ROLES SINGAPORE: Singapore-based Grab Holdings Ltd said yesterday that its co-founder Tan Hooi Ling will step down from her operating roles at the ride-hailing company by the end of this year. Hooi Ling, who co-founded Grab with CEO Anthony Tan in 2012, will transition into an advisory role, the company said. Her succession plan has been in place for a while, Tan wrote in an internal memo to employees, adding that Hooi Ling will also give up her board directorship. Hooi Ling currently leads Grab’s technology division and has served as a board member since its listing in December 2021. – Reuters INVESTMENT IN SOLAR POWER TO OUTSHINE OIL PARIS: Investment in solar power is expected to overtake oil for the first time this year as clean energy spending outpaces that for fossil fuels, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said in a report yesterday. While that is a welcome development, the IEA warned that investment in fossil fuels is rising when it should be falling fast to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. Annual investment in clean energy is expected to have risen by 24% from 2021 to more than US$1.7 trillion in 2023, according to the IEA. The gain for fossil fuels was 15% over the same period. – AFP FITCH PUTS US RATING ON NEGATIVE WATCH NEW YORK: Rating agency Fitch put the United States’ credit on watch for a possible downgrade on Wednesday, raising the stakes as talks over the country’s debt ceiling go down to the wire. Fitch put the country’s “AAA” rating, its highest rank, on a negative watch in a precursor to a possible downgrade should lawmakers fail to raise the amount that the Treasury can borrow before it runs out of money, which could happen as soon as next week. A downgrade could affect the pricing of trillions of dollars of Treasury debt securities. – Reuters Singapore Q1 economic growth beats estimates SINGAPORE: Singapore’s economy posted better-thanexpected results in the first quarter of 2023, official data showed yesterday, but the government warned that the global outlook remains gloomy. The Southeast Asian city-state’s economic performance is often seen as a barometer of the global environment because of its reliance on international trade. Its economy expanded by 0.4% on-year in the quarter starting January, slower than the 2.1% onyear growth in the previous quarter but better than an advance estimate released last month, according to figures released by the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). Quarter-on-quarter, the economy shrank 0.4%, though that too was better than expected. It was a reversal from the 0.1% growth in the final three months of 2022. oGDP expands 0.4% from a year ago but shrinks by the same percentage on a quarterly basis MTI maintained its growth forecast for 2023 at between 0.5% and 2.5%, saying the figure was likely to be in the middle of that range. It warned, however: “Downside risks in the global economy have risen.” Maybank economist Chua Hak Bin said a technical recession, defined as two consecutive quarters of contractions, is possible if the boost from China’s reopening fails to materialise in the second quarter. “The return of China tourists is more a trickle than a flood so far,” he said. In its statement, MTI cited a “sharper-than-expected tightening in global financial conditions” and Germany in recession as inflation, higher rates bite “escalations in the war in Ukraine and geopolitical tensions among major global powers”. Singapore’s trade is three times its gross domestic product, and a slowdown in global demand is quickly reflected in its trade and production data, said Song Seng Wun, a regional economist with CIMB Private Banking. “Singapore is like the canary in the coal mine,” he said. There was a weak reading from the manufacturing sector, which shrank 5.6% on-year in the first quarter, worsening from the 2.6% shrinkage in the fourth quarter last year. “Singapore’s external demand outlook for the rest of the year has weakened,” MTI said. – AFP, Reuters BERLIN: Germany fell into a recession around the turn of the year, official figures published yesterday showed, as inflation and higher interest rates curbed demand in Europe’s largest economy. Over the first three months of 2023, the economy shrank by 0.3%, the federal statistics agency Destatis said, downgrading an initial estimate of 0%. Following a 0.5% contraction in the last three months of 2022, it was Germany’s second consecutive quarter of negative growth – the threshold for a “technical recession”. The slump came as Germany battled a surge in energy prices in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has weighed on households and businesses. The increased cost of energy has driven inflation, which sat at 7.2% in Germany in April, down only slightly from its peak towards the end of 2022. “The persistence of high price increases continued to be a burden on the German economy at the start of the year,” Destatis said in a statement. The impact was felt particularly by consumers who reined in their spending on items such as food and clothing. The negative revision to the growth figure was no surprise following a string of weak economic indicators, LBBW bank analyst Jens-Oliver Niklasch said. “The early indicators suggest that things will continue to be similarly weak in the second quarter” of 2023, Niklasch said. Industrial orders, which give a foretaste of factory output, plummeted in March when compared with the same month last year. Germany, which had long been heavily reliant on Russian energy imports, was left particularly exposed following the Russian invasion in February last year. The slump was “not the worstcase scenario of a severe recession” predicted by some following the Russian invasion, said Carsten Brzeski, head of macro at the ING bank. But mild temperatures, a rebound in key market China and the easing of supply chain problems following the coronavirus pandemic were “not enough to get the economy out of the recessionary danger zone”, Brzeski said. – AFP HANOI: Vietnamese electric vehicle (EV) maker VinFast said it is recalling all of the first batch of vehicles it shipped to the United States last year following a safety warning issued by US authorities. The move came after the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said 999 of VinFast’s VF 8 vehicles suffered a software error in the dashboard display that prevented critical safety information from being shown and “may increase the risk of a crash”. More than 700 of the 999 units are still in VinFast’s hands and have not been delivered to customers or fleet services, the NHTSA estimated. In a statement to Reuters, VinFast said it issued a voluntary safety recall of the VF 8 City Edition on which the dashboard screen goes blank while driving or stationary. “VinFast is not aware of any field reports of incidents. The company is issuing this recall out of an abundance of caution,” it said. The recall statement comes less than two weeks after VinFast announced it would list in the United States via a merger with special purpose acquisition company Black Spade Acquisition Co. In February, VinFast recalled 2,781 VF 8 cars sold domestically over an issue with the front brake of some models. VinFast, which was founded in 2017 and began selling EVs in California this year, has shipped two batches of VF 8 cars to the United States totalling 2,097 units. In documents filed with the NHTSA, VinFast said it first became aware of the dashboard issue on April 27 while reading customer comments and concerns. According to the safety agency, the problem has been documented 18 times. The NHTSA said VinFast will introduce a software update that should fix the issue. The software fix was scheduled to go live yesterday with notification letters being sent out to owners by May 29. – Reuters
13 SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CONFLUX INVESTMENTS SDN. BERHAD { Company No. 196301000219 (5095-D) } (In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(1) of the Companies Act 2016, the Final Meeting of the Contributories of the Company will be held at 12 Jalan SS3/76, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on the 27th day of June, 2023 at 10.00 a.m. for the following purposes :- 1. To consider the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts showing how the winding up has been conducted and to receive any explanation thereon. 2. To resolve under Section 518(3) (b) of the Companies Act 2016 the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company may be destroyed after the expiration of six months from the date of the Final Meeting. DR. OON HONG GEOK Liquidator Dated : May 26, 2023 Note: A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the above meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend on his or her stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the Company. The instrument appointing a proxy must be deposited at 123-O Third Floor, Wisma Lister Garden, Macalister Road, 10400 Georgetown, Penang not less than 48 hours before the time set for holding the meeting. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF LOTUS RICH SDN. BHD. [200601021921 (741674-W)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(1) of the Companies Act, 2016 the Final Meeting of Members of the Company will be held at the Registered Office, No. 7126 (1st Floor), Jalan Bagan Jermal, Taman Bintang, 12300 Butterworth, Pulau Pinang on Friday the 30th day of June 2023 at 3.30 p.m. for the following purpose: 1. To receive the Liquidator’s final accounts showing the manner in which the winding-up has been conducted and of hearing any explanations thereof. 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 the manner and period in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. Dated this 26th day of May 2023 LIM SIN HIN LIQUIDATOR Note: Pursuant to Section 334 of the Companies Act 2016 the members of the Company are entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote. 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT IN MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) WINDING-UP NO. WA-28NCC-439-05/2023 In the matter of HSC Logistics Sdn. Bhd. (Company Registration No.: 202001019206 (1375526-M)); And In the matter of Sections 465(1)(e) and/or 466(1)(a) and other relevant provisions of the Companies Act 2016. BETWEEN TEONG TIEK WAH (NRIC No. 801017-07-5253) … PETITIONER AND HSC LOGISTICS SDN. BHD. (Company No.: 202001019206 (1375526-M)) … RESPONDENT ADVERTIsem*nT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for the winding-up of the abovenamed Respondent by the High Court was, on the 15th day of May 2023, presented by the above-named Petitioner. And that the said petition is directed to be heard before the High Court of Malaya sitting at Kuala Lumpur at 9 o’clock in the morning, on the 9th day of November 2023; AND any creditor or contributory of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; AND a copy of the petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is 8D, Tingkat Kenari, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. The Petitioner’s solicitor is Fahri, Azzat & Co. of 15, Jalan PJU 7/16a, Mutiara Damansara, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Dated this 19th May 2023 Messrs. Fahri, Azzat & Co., Solicitor for the Petitioner. Note: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said petition must serve on or send by post to the above-named Solicitor for the Petitioner notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above-named not later than twelve o’clock noon of the day 8th of November 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the petition). 322 Notices AKTA INSOLVENSI 1967 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG DALAM KEBANKRAPAN NO. PA29NCC-257-06/2022 Per: LEE PING PING (No. K/P: 691127-07-5532/A1441483) .. Penghutang Penghakiman Ex-parte: HONG LEONG BANK BERHAD [No. Syarikat: 193401000023 (97141- X)] .. Pemiutang Penghakiman N O T I S (Dalam Perkara mengenai Petisyen Pemiutang dikeluarkan pada 21-02- 2023) Kepada: LEE PING PING No. 11A, Solok Relau 3, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. Dan/atau LEE PING PING No. 29-17-07, Lengkok Nipah Dua, Sungai Dua, 11900 Bayan Lepas,Pulau Pinang. AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa satu Petisyen Pemiutang telah dikeluarkan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Tinggi Pulau Pinang ini oleh Hong Leong Bank Berhad [No. Syarikat: 193401000023 (97141-X)] yang beralamat di Pungutan Konsumer-Operasi Undangundang, Level 2, Tower A, PJ City Development, 15A, Jalan 219, Section 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Darul Ehsan dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Petisyen Pemiutang tersebut diserahkan kepada kamu secara penyampaian ganti dengan menampalkan satu salinan Petisyen Pemiutang berserta dengan satu salinan Perintah yang dibuat di sini di Papan Notis Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya di Pulau Pinang, di premis alamat terakhir Penghutang Penghakiman di No. 11A, Solok Relau 3, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang dan No. 29-17-07, Lengkok Nipah Dua, Sungai Dua, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang dengan mengiklankan satu Notis sekali di suratkhabar harian tempatan berbahasa Inggeris iaitu The Sun untuk satu terbitan dan penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut disifatkan sempurna dan memadai bagi penyampaian Petisyen Pemiutang terhadap Penghutang Penghakiman tersebut selepas tamat tempoh empat belas (14) hari selepas tarikh akhir penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut. DAN SELANJUTNYA AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa Petisyen Pemiutang tersebut akan didengarkan di Mahkamah ini pada 15-06-2023 pukul 9.00 pagi, dimana kamu dikehendaki hadir, dan jika kamu tidak hadir Mahkamah boleh membuat perintah kebankrapan terhadap kamu dalam ketidakhadiran kamu. Petisyen Pemiutang boleh diperiksa oleh kamu atas permohonan di Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh pada 19 April 2023 ………………t.t……………… Penolong Kanan Pendaftar Mahkamah Tinggi Malaya Georgetown Notis ini dikeluarkan oleh Tetuan Murad & Foo yang beralamat di Suite 10.01, Tingkat 10, MWE Plaza, No. 8, Lebuh Farquhar, 10200 Pulau Pinang Peguamcara bagi Pemiutang Penghakiman tersebut di atas. [No.Ruj : TLN/HLBB/F.109/2017(A)/Aisyah] DALAM MAHKAMAH MAJISTRET DI SHAH ALAM DALAM NEGERI SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, MALAYSIA WRIT NO. BA-A72NCC-96-04/2023 ANTARA SEMUAMAS RESOURCES SDN BHD (No. Syarikat: 201301011288 / 1041126-H) …PLAINTIF DAN 1. ZAMANI BIN ISMAIL (No. K/P: 740122-03-6161) 2. SYARINIZA BINTI SHARIFUDDIN (No. K/P: 820215-05-5548) …DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN NOTIS KEPADA : DEFENDAN PERTAMA ZAMANI BIN ISMAIL (No. K/P: 740122-03-6161) No. 21, Jalan SS18/6 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor Dan/atau DEFENDAN PERTAMA ZAMANI BIN ISMAIL (No. K/P: 740122-03-6161) No. 28, Jalan Lunak 25/118 Taman Sri Muda, Seksyen 25 40400 Shah Alam, Selangor AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa salinan bermeterai Writ bertarikh 03 April 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 03 April 2023 telah dikemukakan terhadap kamu di Mahkamah Majistret Shah Alam dalam perkara Guaman No. BA-A72NCC-96-04/2023 oleh SEMUAMAS RESOURCES SDN BHD yang beralamat di E-11-07, Capital 5, Oasis Square, No. 2, Jalan PJU 1A/7A,Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor dan Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Plaintif diberi kebebasan / kebenaran untuk menyampaikan salinan bermeterai Writ bertarikh 03 April 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 03 April 2023 kepada kamu dengan cara penyampaian ganti, yakni dengan menampalkan satu salinan bermeterai Writ bertarikh 03 April 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 03 April 2023 serta satu salinan bermeterai Perintah Penyampaian Ganti bertarikh 23 Mei 2023 di Papan Kenyataan Mahkamah Majistret Shah Alam dan pada suatu tempat yang mudah dilihat di alamat-alamat terakhir Defendan Pertama di No. 21, Jalan SS18/6, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor dan No. 28, Jalan Lunak 25/118, Taman Sri Muda, Seksyen 25, 40400 Shah Alam, Selangor dan menyebabkan suatu Notis diiklankan dalam akhbar harian “The Sun Daily” untuk sekali dalam Bahasa Malaysia dan penampalan-penampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut hendaklah menjadi penyampaian yang sempurna dan cukup akan Writ bertarikh 03 April 2023 dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bertarikh 03 April 2023 ke atas kamu tujuh (7) hari selepas tarikh akhir penampalan-penampalan dan pengiklanan dibuat. Kos permohonan ini adalah dijadikan kos dalam kausa. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu mestilah dalam tempoh dua puluh satu (21) hari selepas penampalanpenampalan dan pengiklanan tersebut, kamu hendaklah menyebabkan suatu kehadiran dimasukkan untuk diri kamu dalam kausa atas guaman dengan mencatatkan kehadiran samada sendiri atau melalui peguam di Pejabat Pendaftaran Majistret Shah Alam dan ambil perhatian, bahawa dalam keingkaran kamu berbuat demikian Plaintif boleh meneruskan untuk mendapatkan penghakiman ingkar terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 23 Mei 2023. DITANDATANGANI OLEH TETUAN FYIONA, LAI & DENNIS THONG …………………………… PEGUAMCARA BAGI PLAINTIF NOTIS ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Fyiona, Lai & Dennis Thong, peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas dan mempunyai alamat penyampaiannya di No. 13A-3, Menara 1 Mont Kiara, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara, 50480 Kuala Lumpur. Tel: 03-6211 1128 / 017-666 2721 Fax: 03-6211 9393 Emel: [emailprotected] [Ruj: YF.FL.MLA.783.23.SRSB] 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT IN MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) WINDING-UP NO.: WA-28NCC-424-05/2023 In the matter of Heng Seng & Company Sdn. Bhd. (Company Registration No.: 200901009551 (852556-P)); And In the matter of Sections 465(1)(e) and other relevant provisions of the Companies Act 2016. BETWEEN TEONG TIEK WAH (NRIC No. 801017-07-5253) … PETITIONER AND HENG SENG & COMPANY SDN. BHD. (Company No.: 200901009551 (852556-P)) … RESPONDENT ADVERTIsem*nT OF PETITION NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for the winding-up of the abovenamed Respondent by the High Court was, on the 11th day of May 2023, presented by the above-named Petitioner. And that the said petition is directed to be heard before the High Court of Malaya sitting at Kuala Lumpur at 9.30am, on the 6th day of November 2023; AND any creditor or contributory of the said company desiring to support or oppose the making of an order on the said petition may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that purpose; AND a copy of the petition will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is 8D, Tingkat Kenari, Sungai Ara, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang. The Petitioner’s solicitor is Fahri, Azzat & Co. of 15, Jalan PJU 7/16a, Mutiara Damansara, 47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Dated this 19th May 2023 Messrs. Fahri, Azzat & Co., Solicitor for the Petitioner. Note: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said petition must serve on or send by post to the above-named Solicitor for the Petitioner notice in writing of his intention so to do. The notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitor (if any) and must be served, or, if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to reach the above-named not later than twelve o’clock noon of the day 5th of November 2023 (the day before the day appointed for the hearing of the petition). IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KC ENTERPRISE SDN. BHD. Company No: 198901009165 (186466-W) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the FINAL MEETING of the members of the Company will be held at No. 21 (1st Floor) Jalan Chew Boon Juan, 30250 Ipoh, Perak on Monday, 26 June 2023 at 11.00 am for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Final Account of Receipts and Payments and statements of distribution among the contributories and any explanation arising thereon. 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the books, accounts and documents of the Company be disposed off after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of final meeting. Dated this 26 May 2023 Yew Teck Huat Liquidator Note: A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the company. The instrument appointing the proxy must be deposited at No. 21 (1st Floor) Jalan Chew Boon Juan, 30250 Ipoh, Perak not less than forty-eight hours before the time set for holding the meeting. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SUBRA ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALIST CLINIC SDN. BHD. 201401002087 (1078161-H) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF FINAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016, the FINAL MEETING of the members of the Company will be held at No. 21 (1st Floor) Jalan Chew Boon Juan, 30250 Ipoh, Perak on Monday, 26 June 2023 at 11.00 am for the following purposes:- AGENDA 1. To receive the Liquidator’s Final Account of Receipts and Payments and statements of distribution among the contributories and any explanation arising thereon. 2. To determine pursuant to Section 518(3)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the books, accounts and documents of the Company be disposed off after the expiration of three (3) months from the date of final meeting. Dated this 26 May 2023 Yew Teck Huat Liquidator Note: A member entitled to attend and vote at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy may but need not be a member of the company. The instrument appointing the proxy must be deposited at No. 21 (1st Floor) Jalan Chew Boon Juan, 30250 Ipoh, Perak not less than forty-eight hours before the time set for holding the meeting. 322 Notices 322 Notices To the mother, Pham Thi Thu Thao of a child born on 25 July 2018 at 1.10 pm at Hospital Besar Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Klang. Kindly contact our firm, Messrs Ruby Anthoa & Partners at No. 12, Jalan Anggerik Vanilla 31/100C, Kota Kemuning, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan at 03- 51318106 with regards to a matter filed at Kuala Selangor Session’s Court. NOTICE OF REDUCTION OF SHARE CAPITAL IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF FUSHENG COMPRESSOR (MALAYSIA) SDN. BHD. [200001032428 (535035-A)] NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 117(1) of the Companies Act 2016 that the members of FUSHENG COMPRESSOR (MALAYSIA) SDN BHD have passed a Special Resolution on 22nd May 2023 to reduce the issued and paid-up share capital from RM3,916,280.00 to RM916,280.00 by effecting a cancellation of RM3,000,000.00 of the issued share capital of the Company by way of an elimination of the accumulated losses of the Company pursuant to the capital reduction and a cancellation of 3,000,000 ordinary shares out of the 3,916,280 ordinary shares. Tan Kim Hee Director Date: 26 May 2023 To the mother, Pholtee Kritsana of a child born on 26 July 2011 at 1.07 am at Ganesan Medical Centre Rawang Selangor. Kindly contact our firm, Messrs Ruby Anthoa & Partners at No. 12, Jalan Anggerik Vanilla 31/100C, Kota Kemuning, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan at 03- 51318106 with regards to a matter filed at Selayang Session’s Court. 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SALAYAN STEEL WIRE PRODUCTS SDN. BHD. 200101002668 (538424-M) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION) At the Meeting of Members the abovenamed Company duly held at 10A, Jalan Centrepoint 2, Pinji Centrepoint, 31650 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan on Thursday, 19 May 2023 at 3.00 p.m., the following special resolution was duly passed:- Special Resolution Members’ Voluntary Liquidation RESOLVED: 1. “THAT the Company be wound up as Members’ Voluntary Liquidation pursuant to Section 439(1) of the Companies Act, 2016.” 2. “THAT Mr Leong Jia Jien (NRIC No.: 890612-08-5867) of 64, Jalan Kledang Raya 11, Taman Saz, 30100 Ipoh, Perak be and is hereby appointed as the Liquidator of the Company for the purpose of such liquidation with all the powers given by Section 456 (Regulation No. 6 of the Eleventh Schedule) of the Companies Act, 2016.” 3. “THAT the Liquidator be and is hereby authorised to draw his remuneration by reference to the time properly incurred by him in the winding up of the Company in addition to his out of pocket expenses.” 4. “THAT the Liquidator be and is hereby authorised to distribute surplus assets in specie or in kind to the members of the Company in accordance with their respective rights and interest therein.” LEONG JIA JIEN (MIA 38062) Secretary Ipoh 26 May 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SALAYAN STEEL WIRE PRODUCTS SDN. BHD. 200101002668 (538424-M) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY LIQUIDATION) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of Salayan Steel Wire Products Sdn. Bhd. [Registration No. 200101002668 (538424- M)] which is being voluntarily wound-up are required on or before 25 June 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of the solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at 10A, Jalan Centrepoint 2, Pinji Centrepoint, 31650 Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator or by their solicitors or personally required to come in and prove their said 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. LEONG JIA JIEN Liquidator Ipoh 26 May 2023 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424 Brilliant Madhwal knocks Lucknow out of IPL AKASH MADHWAL took five wickets for as many runs to lead Mumbai Indians to a crushing 81-run win in the second IPL playoff game and knock Lucknow Super Giants out of the tournament yesterday. Australia’s Cameron Green (41) and Suryakumar Yadav (33) put on 66 to help guide five-time champions Mumbai to 182-8 after they elected to bat first in the knockout contest in Chennai. Madhwal then returned figures of 5-5 in 3.3 overs to dismiss Lucknow for 101 as Mumbai booked a meeting with holders and regular season table-toppers Gujarat Titans in the next playoff encounter today in Ahmedabad. The winners of that clash will meet Chennai Super Kings in the final on Sunday. “It’s nice that it’s going well at the moment,” Green said. “Our batting’s been really good. Madhwal has been the game changer for us; five today, and got four-for the other day.” Lucknow’s innings imploded as they collapsed from 69-2 to be bowled out in 16.3 overs, losing three key wickets to run outs. Jimmy ready for Ashes opener ENGLAND fast bowler James Anderson says he has recovered from a groin injury and will be fit for the first Ashes Test against Australia next month. England’s leading bowler in Tests with 685 wickets, Anderson suffered the injury playing for Lancashire last week. He is unlikely to play in the one-off Test against Ireland before the Ashes after the uncapped Josh Tongue was added to the squad. “Yes, definitely,” Anderson, 40, told the Telegraph newspaper yesterday when asked if he would be fit for the opener against Australia at Edgbaston on June 16. “I have no issues running and bowling again and just keeping my fingers crossed I can carry on going as I have been and will be ready for the Ashes. “The idea is to try and step it up here at Lancashire over the next couple of days and then meet up with England on Sunday and see where I get to. I am in the squad for the Ireland test but we have to make a call on that nearer to the time.” Sainz somes clean on ‘football injury’ CARLOS SAINZ has clarified that he is “completely well and ready to race” at this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix after rumours he had suffered an injury. Reports this week suggested that the Ferrari driver had hurt himself playing in the annual Monaco charity football match. The Spaniard appeared to have significant strapping on his thigh after being substituted. But Sainz has stressed on social media that he will good to go as the race weekend starts with the opening two practice sessions on Friday. “Hi everyone. Just wanted to let you know that I am well and completely ready to race this weekend in Monaco,” Sainz said. “What happened was simply a contact during the traditional charity football match, but it was not an injury. I enjoyed playing football as I always do and now I am really looking forward to the weekend.” Ecclestone would be surprised if Hamilton leaves Mercedes BERNIE ECCLESTONE has said he would be surprised if Ferrari pulled off the biggest transfer in recent Formula One memory by signing Lewis Hamilton – and believes it is Mercedes or bust for the British driver. Speaking to the PA news agency, F1’s former supremo Ecclestone, who remains well connected in the sport, said: “I would be surprised that Ferrari would want to get rid of Leclerc to sign Lewis because they are very much in love with Leclerc. Lewis has said that when he does decide to stop he would still want to be connected with Mercedes so it would surprise me if he wanted to leave. And if I was Lewis and I saw that Leclerc is happy to leave Ferrari, I would think there has to be a problem there. I also don’t know why Lewis would think he would be better off at Ferrari than where he is at the moment. He knows everything well and truly at Mercedes. They know him, and they have a lot of respect for him so he couldn’t be better looked after anywhere. Ferrari is not a retirement home either. They want to win the world championship more than anyone. So personally, I think he will stay at Mercedes, or he will retire.” BRIEFS
14 theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 SPORTS THE French Open starts this weekend and takes place without Rafael Nadal for the first time since 2004. The Spaniard’s withdrawal through injury opens the door for the rest of the men’s field, while two-time champion Iga Swiatek will look to cement her dominance of the women’s event. Here are 10 players to watch at Roland Garros. Novak Djokovic While the king of clay is absent, title hopefuls will still have to get past another 22-time grand slam champion. Djokovic has lifted the Coupe des Mousquetaires twice and lost in the final on four other occasions. However, his preparation has been far from perfect, with surprise losses and concern over an elbow problem. Carlos Alcaraz While Nadal’s absence undoubtedly leaves a huge hole, Spanish fans have another phenomenon to cheer in the shape of Alcaraz, who has reclaimed the world number one ranking from Djokovic. An early loss at the Italian Open was a shock but the 20-year-old was supreme in winning titles in Barcelona and Madrid and is firmly in the frame for a second grand slam title. Holger Rune If neither Djokovic nor Alcaraz lifts the title then the best bet may be on young Dane Rune. The 20-year-old has soared into the top 10 over the last six months and already boasts two wins over Djokovic. Ambitious and not afraid to rile up opponents or the crowd, Rune looks a slam champion in the making. Daniil Medvedev The mercurial Russian is no lover of clay but the confidence he has carried from an excellent season has translated to the red stuff, bringing him victory in Rome on Sunday. Medvedev has won more matches than any other man so far this year and will be seeded second in Paris. Jannik Sinner Sinner’s emergence at the top of the game was rather overshadowed by Alcaraz’s even more rapid ascent but their rivalry has been a tonic to a sport adjusting to the loss of its aging superstars. This year has seen the big-hitting Italian establish himself in the top 10 and a grand slam breakthrough may not be too far away. Iga Swiatek The Pole strolled to her second Roland Garros title last year as part of a 37- match winning streak. A clay-court natural, Swiatek can appear unstoppable on the surface but the gap at the top of the women’s game has certainly narrowed. Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina have been the players of the season so far while Swiatek has had a couple of injury niggles. Aryna Sabalenka The jocular Belarusian got the grand slam monkey off her back by beating Rybakina in a superb Australian Open final and has continued in the same vein ever since. Defeating Swiatek to win the clay title in Madrid was a big moment, although that is a much faster court. Sabalenka is yet to do well in Paris but she is a different player and competitor to 12 months ago. Elena Rybakina Rybakina may have been a surprise Wimbledon winner for many last summer but the danger caused by her power game is self evident, while she is as cool a customer as they come. The 23-year-old has shown excellent consistency this season and lifting the title in Rome saw her climb to fourth in the rankings. Zheng Qinwen China has been searching for a star to follow in the footsteps of former French Open winner Li Na and, in 20-yearold Zheng, they might just have found it. Athletic and powerful, she has risen steadily up the rankings into the top 20. Zheng reach the fourth round on her Roland Garros debut last year and was the only player to take a set off Swiatek. Marketa Vondrousova Even among the numerous women who have made grand slam finals in recent years, Vondrousova flies under the radar. Beaten by Ashleigh Barty at Roland Garros in 2019 as a teenager, the Czech has struggled with injury since. But she is one of the most naturally talented players on clay and has been showing good signs this season. – The Independent MONACO kicks off Formula One’s flood-delayed European season on Sunday with Fernando Alonso sensing a chance to end dominant Red Bull’s run of success at the most glamorous and historic of street circuits. A home race for Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, Monaco would have been part two of a tripleheader with Italy and Spain but the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix scheduled for Imola last weekend was called off due to devastating floods. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez have won all five races so far this season by some distance, and the last two in Monaco. They will be favourites again but, despite a history of processional races in the principality, the metal-fenced streets of Monte Carlo can bite back – particularly in the wet. Aston Martin’s Alonso, winner in Monaco with Renault and McLaren in 2006 and 2007, will be ready for any opportunity that comes his way after securing four third places so far in 2023. “We seem to have a car that is maybe not the fastest on the straights. We need to improve that, but we are very good on the corners,” he told Sky Sports television when asked where he might win. “I would say that the slowest speeds of the championship, let’s say Monaco, Budapest, Singapore; these kind of circuits, I think we put our main hopes at the moment.” Leclerc has secured pole for the last two years but has yet to stand on the Monaco podium as a Formula One driver. Mercedes are bringing an upgraded car and Monaco is one of seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton’s favourite circuits with three previous wins there. “We are introducing the first step in a new development direction,” said team boss Toto Wolff. “It won’t be a silver bullet; from my experience, they do not exist in our sport. “We hope that it gives the drivers a more stable and predictable platform. Then we can build on that in the weeks and months ahead.” – Reuters @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME Stars to watch in Paris Likely contenders at the French Open with serial winner Nadal not taking part Alonso sees an opportunity on the streets of Monaco IF there was a soft landing spot for Sam Burns after missing the cut at last week’s PGA Championship by nine shots, the Colonial Country Club would be it. Not only is Burns the defending champion at this week’s Charles Schwab Challenge, but he also grew up coming to the event as a young fan. He particularly remembers several shots David Toms hit en route to his win at Colonial in 2011, and the two remain friends to this day. “I think this event is extremely special to me just because I grew up going to this event as a kid and watching so many guys win here,” Burns said yesterday. “I always thought it was such a cool golf course, and I always wanted to be a part of it. I just wanted to play in it. “Then to have the chance to win and be able to do that, it means so much to me and still does. I think about this week often.” Last year’s victory came in dramatic fashion – a playoff victory over then-Masters champ and good friend Scottie Scheffler. It was part of a run in which Burns reeled off two wins and a second-place finish in a sixevent stretch. In Burns’ typically streaky fashion, that stretch also included a pair of missed cuts. He finds himself in somewhat of a similar pattern this year. Burns outlasted an elite field to win the Match Play event on the heels of a sixth-place finish at the Valspar Championship in March. Since then, he has gone T29, T15, T11 and had a pair of missed cuts, including last week’s PGA Championship, where he finished better than only 12 of the 156 players in the field. Burns is seeing the silver lining, banking on the extra rest from missing the weekend at Oak Hill to help him navigate the comforting confines of Colonial. “I love this golf course. It’s very similar to a golf course that I grew up on, kind of small, tree-lined. It’s very penal in certain spots,” he said. – Field Level Media Defending champ Burns relishing Colonial return █ ELEANOR CROOKS Scheffler seeks ‘major’ intensity TWO WEEKS after finishing tied for fifth at the AT&T Byron Nelson in McKinney, Texas, Scottie Scheffler is eager to give the home crowd another strong performance this weekend at the Charles Schwab Challenge. Scheffler, who grew up in Dallas, will be at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, as he tries to build on last year’s runner-up finish. He lost in a playoff to Sam Burns, who earned his fourth career PGA Tour victory. “I’m typically pretty hungry to win whatever event it is. I show up expecting to come here and play well and do my best,” Scheffler said. “I’m hoping for a good finish this week, but I try not to look too far ahead.” Scheffler also finished second in his most recent event, the PGA Championship, on Sunday. “Form feels pretty good,” Scheffler said. “I took two good days of rest. Majors typically wear me out pretty good, so it was nice kind of getting home and just getting to relax a little bit.” Spieth excited for ‘home game’ IF there’s any event where Jordan Spieth feels at home, it’s the Charles Schwab Challenge. Spieth will be making his 11th appearance at the event and looking to add to an already impressive resume when he hits the course at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas. In his previous 10 outings, Spieth has posted nine top-15 finishes, three runner-up finishes and a victory in 2016. “I really enjoy playing this place. It kind of requires – it’s really a course where anyone can win,” Spieth said. “I’ve had some great memories here. This week feels like a home game without maybe the extra that the Byron is for me,” Spieth said. “So I’m able to stay at home, but I also kind of feel – I feel the support without maybe the added-ness that I always kind of felt at the Byron. And it’s a course that’s fit my game really well over the years. So really excited. Game’s been in a really good place this year.” PIN HIGH Elena Rybakina (below), and Novak Djokovic. – REUTERSPIX
15 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | MAY 26, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE PREVIEWS & PREDICTIONS MATCH-BY-MATCH facts and stats ahead of the final round of the English Premier League fixtures on Sunday (all games at 11.30 Malaysian time): Arsenal vs Wolves – Home Win Arsenal have won 25 League games this season, only winning more in the Premier League era in their title-winning campaigns of 2001-02 and 2003-04 (both 26). The Gunners have won their final match of the season more than any other League side (21), with a win rate of 70%. Wolves are winless in their last seven League away games (D2 L5), losing the last three by an aggregate score of 10-1. Aston Villa vs Brighton – Home Win A victory for Villa will see them qualify at least for the Europa Conference League next season, their first appearance in European competition since 2010-11. Brighton’s Danny Welbeck has been involved in five goals in his last four League appearances on matchday 38 (two goals, three assists), scoring in each of his last two games. Brentford vs Man City – Away Win Erling Haaland has scored five of City’s nine League goals in London this season, the joint most for a City player in a single campaign (Sergio Aguero in 2015-16 and Edin Dzeko in 2011-12 also five). City’s Kevin De Bruyne has been involved in nine goals in his last six final-day appearances in the League, scoring three and assisting six. Following their 2-1 win at the Etihad in November, Brentford are looking to complete their second League double over City (previously in 1937-38). Chelsea vs Newcastle – Away Win Chelsea are winless in their last seven home games in all competitions (D3 L4), their longest since a run of 10 between November 1987 and April 1988. Kai Havertz (five) and Raheem Sterling (four) are the only two players to score more than once for Chelsea in the League at Stamford Bridge this season, with 10 players netting one home goal. Defender Kieran Trippier has created 110 chances in the League this season – it’s the most on record (since 2003-04) for a Newcastle player. Crystal Palace vs Forest – Away Win Eberechi Eze has been involved in 14 goals in 37 League games this season (10 goals, four assists), more than any other Palace player. Taiwo Awoniyi has scored in seven League games this season, putting Forest 1-0 ahead every time. Palace have lost just one of their last nine League home games (W3 D5) and are unbeaten in all four since Roy Hodgson’s return (W3 D1). Everton vs Bournemouth – Home Win Dwight McNeil is Everton’s top League goal-scorer this season with seven goals, the lowest top scorer in a single campaign since 2001-02. Bournemouth have conceded 70 League goals this season but are safe from relegation and could finish as high as 13th. Everton are winless in their last four League home games (D1 L3), losing the last three in a row and conceding 10 goals in the process. Leeds vs Tottenham – Home Win Leeds will be relegated to the Championship if they fail to beat Tottenham, their seventh top-flight relegation overall and second from the League after 2003-04. A defeat for Tottenham would ensure no European football for them next season, for the first time since 2009-10. Harry Kane has scored in 25 League games for Tottenham this season, the most of any player in a 38-game campaign. Leicester City vs West Ham – Home Win If Leicester fail to win this game, they will get relegated from the top-flight just seven years after winning the title. James Maddison has been involved in more League goals than any other Leicester player this season (10 goals, nine assists). West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen has been involved in five goals in his five League games against Leicester (three goals, two assists), his most goal involvements against a single topflight opponent. Man United vs Fulham – Home Win Fulham are guaranteed their first top-half finish in the league since 2011-12 (ninth). Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored 14 League goals this season, including three in his two games since returning from suspension. United have won all five of their League games against promoted sides this season, winning all six in a single campaign in 2011-12. Southampton vs Liverpool – Away Win Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has been involved in 17 goals in 14 League games since March (11 goals, six assists), more than any other player in the competition in that time. Liverpool have won their last three League away games, as many as they had in their first 15 on the road this season (D4 L8). Southampton have lost 10 of their last 11 League games against Liverpool, with the exception being a 1-0 home win in January 2021. Reuters Final-day scrap Smith feels Leicester have put pressure on Everton ahead of ‘Survival Sunday’ LEICESTER CITY boss Dean Smith believes his side have piled the pressure onto Everton after seeing his team set up a dramatic final day of the Premier League season with a battling draw at high-flying Newcastle. The 2016 champions will head into Sunday’s home clash with West Ham knowing even victory might not prove enough to keep them in the top-flight, but believe they have piled the pressure on rivals Everton and Leeds. If the Toffees win at home to Bournemouth, both Leicester and Sam Allardyce’s side, who host Tottenham, will be relegated regardless of their results. But a draw at Goodison Park coupled with a Leicester win would see the Foxes survive by virtue of goal difference and Smith believes they have put the heat on Everton. “I think we have because if they draw and we win, we stay up. I did say it might be down to goal difference,” Smith said. “But we’ve got a tough game against West Ham, who have just qualified for a European final and have got a very good manager who’s a friend of mine, David Moyes, who I have got a lot of respect for. “He’ll make it, certainly, a really tough game for us. We hope now that we can get to the King Power and if fortunes go our way… We have taken it to the last game, we’ve made Everton have to win if we win ourselves.” The need to win – something the Foxes have done on only eight occasions to date in the league this season – means there is no margin for error on Sunday with two points currently separating them from the final safe spot in the table. However, Smith will not adopt a gungho approach to the task. “No, because if you chuck everything, they have got good enough players – they’ve just qualified for a European final – that they could open some doors against us, and we can’t allow that,” Smith added. “We have to make sure that we play a balanced performance to make sure we don’t give big chances away, but go and create some.” It was a very different balance on Tyneside, where Smith admitted he had set up simply to avoid defeat by a team chasing and ultimately securing Champions League qualification, although the visitors might have emerged with three priceless points had Nick Pope not made his only save of the game to keep out Timothy Castagne’s stoppagetime volley. “Have I gambled with Leicester’s future? No. I am a bit of a risk-taker, but that wasn’t a gamble,” Smith said when asked about his approach. “If I came here and went at Newcastle, we could have been beaten four or five. It wasn’t a gamble. “We kept a clean sheet, which was what we needed to do. We need to score, which we know we’ve got our problems with.” – The Independent ARNE SLOT claims that he wants to continue as Feyenoord boss next season and he could soon sign a new contract with the club. The Dutchman was expected to be appointed as Antonio Conte’s permanent Tottenham successor, but a surprising turn of events leaves chairman Daniel Levy in an awkward predicament as his managerial hunt drags on. Conte was sacked by Spurs almost two months ago, and the club’s fortunes have hardly improved under interim replacements Cristian Stellini and Ryan Mason. Levy is thought to be hard at work behind the scenes conducting talks with possible long-term solutions. Having flirted with the likes of Julian Nagelsmann and Luis Enrique, Slot emerged as the front-runner in this week after guiding Feyenoord to their 16th Eredivisie title, and their first since 2016/17. However, despite previously explaining that he wanted his next job to be in the Premier League, Slot has now turned his back on the vacancy because of his desire to keep building on his project at Feyenoord. “I have been hearing a lot of rumors going around about other clubs’ interest in me,” explained the 44-year-old. “Although I am thankful, my wish is to stay at Feynoord and continue working on what we created last year.” Slot reportedly held crunch talks over his future earlier this week, although he has since clarified that those talks only surrounded negotiating renewed terms with the Dutch giants. “There is not - and there has not been - transfer conversations,” he continued. “The meeting was exclusively for an extension. All talks with the club have always been only in that sense. I’m looking forward to next season with Feyenoord.” – Express Newspapers Levy back to square one after Slot snub █ DAMIAN SPELLMAN CHELSEA must move beyond football’s tendency to be reactionary if the club hope to create a long-term vision for their future, according to Frank Lampard. Co-owner Todd Boehly has sacked two managers this season in what has been the team’s poorest campaign of the Premier League era, with a record low number of points won and a first bottom-half finish since 1996 now certain. They are one of 11 top-flight clubs to have changed manager at least once this season, with themselves, Leeds and relegated Southampton having dispensed with two, as the average tenure for a Premier League coach has shrunk to just over 18 months. Chelsea’s previously indifferent form has plummeted since Graham Potter was removed on April 2, with one win in 10 games in all competitions. The team has failed to score in six of those matches following Potter’s sacking. With Mauricio Pochettino expected to be confirmed imminently as the manager for next season, the outgoing interim coach suggested a resistance to modern trends must prevail if Chelsea are to challenge once more. “That stat (11 clubs having sacked their manager) says it, I presume it’s a record,” said Lampard. “There are understandable factors, the Premier League brand and what it means to teams to stay in there. “The first person that receives the blame is the coach, if you understand that going into the job that’s probably a good thing. “Or course there’s lots of other factors. You wonder how successful always it is to changes those things. “We’re in a very reactionary world anyway. In years gone by the reaction to one, two, three defeats might have been different. “Now we have this explosion very quickly and you just have to understand it when you’re doing this job. “For Chelsea it has to be a longer picture than that to get us a bit more of a process. People have to stick with that along the way.” – The Independent █ ROBERT O’CONNOR ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE: Brighton 1 (Enciso 38) Manchester City 1 (Foden 25). P W D L F A Pts Man City 37 28 5 4 94 32 89 Arsenal 37 25 6 6 83 43 81 Newcastle 37 19 13 5 67 32 70 Man Utd 36 21 6 9 52 41 69 Liverpool 37 19 9 9 71 43 66 Brighton 37 18 8 11 71 51 62 Aston Villa 37 17 7 13 49 45 58 Tottenham 37 17 6 14 66 62 57 Brentford 37 14 14 9 57 46 56 Fulham 37 15 7 15 54 51 52 Crystal Palace 37 11 11 15 39 48 44 Chelsea 36 11 10 15 36 42 43 Wolves 37 11 8 18 31 53 41 West Ham 37 11 7 19 41 53 40 Bournemouth 37 11 6 20 37 70 39 Forest 37 9 10 18 37 67 37 Everton 37 7 12 18 33 57 33 Leicester 37 8 7 22 49 67 31 Leeds 37 7 10 20 47 74 31 Southampton 37 6 6 25 32 69 24 LA LIGA: Elche 1 Sevilla 1, Villarreal 2 Cadiz 0, Real Madrid 2 Rayo Vallecano 1, Real Betis 0 Getafe 1, Espanyol 3 Atletico Madrid 3. Top 5 P W D L F A Pts Barcelona 36 27 4 5 66 18 85 Real Madrid 36 23 5 8 72 34 74 Atletico 36 22 7 7 66 30 73 Real Sociedad 36 20 8 8 48 32 68 Villarreal 36 19 6 11 56 36 63 ITALIAN CUP FINAL: Fiorentina 1 (Gonzalez 3) Inter Milan 2 (Martinez 29, 37). CHAMPIONS RELEGATED RESULTS & STANDINGS ‘Blues must avoid impulse decisions’ Chelsea’s Frank Lampard. – AFPPIX
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [emailprotected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [emailprotected] MANCHESTER CITY boss Pep Guardiola claimed his newly-crowned Premier League champions “drank all the alcohol in Manchester” ahead of a pulsating 1-1 draw at Brighton. Phil Foden’s early goal was cancelled out by a stunning long-range strike by Julio Enciso. Erling Haaland had a late header disallowed after VAR deemed the Premier League’s top scorer to be pulling on the shirt of Brighton defender Levi Colwill. Guardiola was concerned his treblechasing side may suffer a hangover in Sussex following the jubilation of the weekend’s title celebrations. But the Spaniard was pleasantly surprised by the performance of his players during a gripping southcoast contest. “Forty hours (ago) we drank all the alcohol in Manchester and the way they played was outstanding. I enjoyed it a lot, especially being champions. “You have to come here to win the game, we know it will be tough. They are a fantastic team in all departments, that’s why they are in the Europa League, well deserved. And also we showed why we are the best team in England. “It’s so important (to continue momentum). We couldn’t drop much, but it’s normal to drop off. “Today, I didn’t see it. Against Chelsea, I didn’t see it. It’s normal that we can drop points and a little bit of intensity after being (confirmed as) champions. “During the week, we have to rest and recover mentally. It has been demanding for four, five, six months with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid (in the Champions League), and chasing Arsenal. “The training is just relaxed and there is no energy. That was the same before Chelsea, before today, and before Brentford we will prepare.” City will check on the fitness of Foden and John Stones before Sunday’s final-day clash with Brentford. Foden was substituted after 50 minutes, while England teammate Stones seemed to be struggling in the final few minutes of the contest. Guardiola added: “They feel uncomfortable. Phil, that’s why we did the substitution five minutes into the second half. “John at the end, he felt tight and of course, we have to be careful. The players want to play on the final day as much as possible.” The pulsating encounter was a fitting final home game of an unforgettable campaign for the record-breaking Seagulls and banished the remote chance of them slipping into the Europa Conference League on the final day at seventh-placed Aston Villa. After the match, Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi said Guardiola is “still No. 1” and revealed the City manager inspired him to become a coach. Guardiola had lavished praise on his opposite number in the build-up to yesterday’s game at the Amex Stadium, describing the 43-year-old Italian as “one of the most influential managers” of the last 20 years. De Zerbi responded by saying he still regards the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich gaffer as the world’s best. “I became a coach because of him,” he said to Sky Sports. “I don’t know if it’s a good thing or not, but I became a coach for him because I loved his Barcelona and I studied him a lot. “I don’t love to copy anybody, but I took (things from him) when I started to be a coach, and before, also, when I finished as a player. Pep is still No. 1.” De Zerbi added that was proud of the “courage” his players showed in going toe to toe with Guardiola’s champions. “It was very tough,” he said. “We knew to play against Man City is always tough. We played very well, we deserved to make our point – and we deserve to play in the Europa League. “When the situation was difficult we didn’t lose our style. To press Man City man to man on every side of the pitch, I think that is courage.” – The Independent/Express Newspapers/Agencies or download app from the App Store or Google Play TM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my FREE access Interactive FRIDAY • MAY 26, 2023 Southgate sends Maguire warning over Man United ‘situation’ GARETH SOUTHGATE warned Harry Maguire he may have to leave Manchester United to keep his England place, as he said the centrehalf’s continued sidelining under Erik ten Hag is “not a situation that can continue forever”. The England manager also said that it would be difficult for Jordan Pickford to remain his firstchoice goalkeeper ahead of Euro 2024 if Everton were relegated from the Premier League, due to the different level of football in the Championship. Maguire has posed Southgate with his first real difficulty in this regard, however, as he has been a key centrehalf in an area short of top-level talent. His reduced minutes at United this season have given his international boss more to ponder, as he also pointed to how Kalvin Phillips has not played as much at Manchester City. “Inevitably it’s not a situation that can continue for ever,” Southgate said as he announced his squad for next month’s Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia. “It’s like Kalvin Phillips, they are important players for us and with Kalvin we haven’t got many players who can play as that single pivot. “Of course the longer that situation goes on the more concerning it is and we’ve got in Marc Guehi, Lewis Dunk, Tyrone Mings, players who are playing well without the same experiences of club European football or international football. But we’ve got to keep searching for competition in that area of the pitch.” As regards Pickford, Southgate was a bit more open – but pointed to the differences in speed at the lower level of football if Everton were to go down and the goalkeeper remained at Goodison Park. “That would depend on how well he was playing,” Southgate said. “It wouldn’t be ideal because clearly the level of attacks, finishing, speed of the game would be completely different so I think it would be difficult but let’s see what Sunday brings.” Southgate meanwhile spoke in detail about Raheem Sterling‘s omission from the squad, after the England manager had a conversation with the winger about this summer’s matches. Sterling has endured a difficult first year since joining Chelsea from Manchester City and will instead focus on recuperating his body in preparation for next season. “I found him positive, strong, understanding what’s gone on,” Southgate said. “Difficult for everybody with all the changes this year at the club. “Three different managers, three different ways of training, three different ways of playing, so a lot of upheaval. Clubs have these moments. “If I was looking at him I would always back him to respond strongly and to have the resilience and tenacity to prove himself. “He said himself earlier in the week he has not been happy with how it has been. That would be a temporary thing for sure.” Southgate also acknowledged that Trent Alexander-Arnold could again play in midfield for England, after Jurgen Klopp similarly experimented with the role this season. “All things are possible,” Southgate said. “I don’t think we should rule anything out. I think his ability with the ball we are all aware of, so the opportunity to get him into those areas. “There’s a still a lot to learn in terms of receiving it more under pressure. A lot of the teams they have played so far, there has been time to receive, a couple of the more recent games he has been pressed a lot more and that has been different. “Defending in midfield would be slightly different so there is a new aspect of the game to learn and that’s not going to be perfect to start. “But I think it is really interesting and he obviously has some attributes that are quite unique “He is one that will look forward early and will play passes in behind defences where others maybe don’t have that view first.” – The Independent █ MIGUEL DELANEY Slap-happy Citizens City players ‘drank all the alcohol in Manchester’ celebrating, says Pep after draw against Seagulls Man City’s Erling Haaland (front) in action with Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke during the English Premier League match at The American Express Community Stadium yesterday. – REUTERSPIX Maguire
