KUALA LUMPUR: In a case that has sent shockwaves across the UK education fraternity, a widespread marking and assessment boycott (MAB) has sparked frustration and concern among thousands of Malaysian graduates who are unable to receive their degrees. A UK-based education agent said 6,702 Malaysian students attended UK universities in 2022, 6,373 in 2021, and 3,869 in 2020. Many of them are also affected as strikes by the educators have been going on and off for the past five years. And now, as British universities prepare for the new academic year in January, 145 institutions of higher learning are grappling with the impact of the unprecedented MAB, with students left in the lurch by teachers and lecturers who are members of the University and College Union (UCU). They are in a dispute over pay, working conditions and a lack of investment in the education sector. Last month, BBC News reported: “The boycott began on April 20 and will continue into the new academic year until employers make an improved offer on pay and (working) conditions.” A 23-year-old Malaysian studying economics at the University of Edinburgh, who wanted to be known only as Rina, said the boycott had disrupted classes, exams and graduation. “My university cannot say when the situation will be resolved. It is causing frustration and anxiety. It is also difficult to get job offers or pursue postgraduate studies. “Also, as my international student visa is expiring soon, returning home is inevitable,” she said. Another student from the same university, oUK marking and assessment boycott involving universities disrupt graduation, career plans of Malaysian students █ BY SIVANISVARRY MORHAN [emailprotected] Thousands in limbo TELLING IT AS IT IS ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 No. 8347 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my SPORTING ROYALS ... The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah take aim with catapults while visiting the Kadazandusun Cultural Association Complex in Penampang as part of their Kembara Kenali Borneo tour yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC possible with little disturbance to current and graduating students. “Final-year students affected by the MAB have been given a choice by most institutions to either graduate with a letter of completion of studies, with a full and final degree classification at a later date, or to defer their graduation until they have received their grades,” she said. While expressing concern about job offers to students, Prabha suggested that the letter of completion of studies be provided to potential employers and other institutions instead of a breakdown of marks and a degree classification. She claimed some universities even compensated students for the delay. In response to the ongoing MAB, the British Home Office, which is responsible for immigration, security and law and order, announced graduate visa measures to help minimise the impact on international students, whose exams and graduation have been impacted by the boycott. Prabha said students who are uncertain of when they will receive their exam results due to the MAB can apply to extend their visas. “They will be exempt from meeting the academic progression requirements. Sponsors should include a note on the Conformation of Acceptance for Studies that the extension is due to the ongoing MAB,” she said. INSIDE New council to expedite transition of solid waste management 2 page PAS no longer relevant in Simpang Jeram, says ex-party rep 3 page Jacinta Morais, 22, said the ongoing MAB has impacted the grading of assignments, causing some universities, including hers, to temporarily halt the awarding of degrees. “Some of my friends and I received apology letters from our university instead of our degrees after completing our final year of studies. “It makes us angry and very concerned about job applications and our future as we need to provide for ourselves. “This outcome has serious consequences for affected students like me. We have paid some £77,000 (RM450,000) in tuition fees. Without my degree, I cannot apply for the graduate visa that I require to stay in the UK. Even my job offer as an economic research analyst based in Malaysia is now uncertain.” British Council Malaysia head of education Prabha Sundram said it recognises the impact that the MAB is having on students across the UK. She said the British Council hopes the industrial dispute would be resolved and satisfactory agreements reached as soon as
2 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS @thesundaily FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM SCAN ME King, Queen begin Sarawak tour in Lawas KUCHING: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah’s Kembara Kenali Borneo journey reached almost 1,000km yesterday when they arrived in Lawas, the northernmost town in Sarawak. The town, famous for the production of tahai (smoked tamban fish) is the first stop of the Kembara Kenali Borneo convoy in the “Land of Hornbills”. Al-Sultan Abdullah, Tunku Azizah and their entourage were welcomed by Acting Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar and Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. They were then escorted to the Lawas Waterfront located in the town centre about 33km from Merapok town to give locals the opportunity to meet the royal oKembara Kenali Borneo convoy to proceed next to Brunei capital, Miri, Bintulu and Sibu Council for solid waste management transition PUTRAJAYA: The National Circular Economy Council (NCEC) to manage solid waste has been established to accelerate the transition of solid waste management from a linear economy to a holistic circular economy. Local Government Development Minister Nga Kor Ming said the council’s establishment was approved during a Cabinet meeting on Aug 23 and was a high-impact initiative for the country’s solid waste management. “The transition to a circular economy can optimise the life cycle of products and increase the use of resources to reduce the amount of waste produced,” he said at a press conference here yesterday. Nga added that waste management based on a linear economy, in which raw materials are used to produce a product that is then discarded at a landfill after use, has an environmental impact in addition to depleting existing resources. It is also unsustainable. He said the NCEC would focus on six elements to support the circular economy ecosystem, including developing markets, demand for recycled materials and designing products that can optimise the life cycle through reuse, recycling and environmental friendliness. “Focus will also be given to promoting the segregation of waste at source and improving the solid waste collection system, providing infrastructure facilities and appropriate incentives, developing an integrated data system and creating a public, private and community collaboration platform.” Nga also said the Local Government Development Ministry was formulating a blueprint as the primary reference for stakeholders and the NCEC would be responsible for coordinating and monitoring the implementation of the action plan. He said adopting a circular economy approach to solid waste management also has the potential to boost community economic activities through the creation of new business opportunities when the demand and market for recycled goods increase. “More employment opportunities will also be created in the circular economic value chain, such as in design, recycling activities and remanufacturing,” he said. Nga added that in 2015, the waste cycle rate was only 15% but it has since increased to 33.17% while the National Solid Waste Management Department has set a target of 40% by 2025. “We have yet to achieve the international benchmark, which is between 60% and 70%, and therefore, we want to expedite the implementation of this initiative.” – Bernama couple, Bernama reported. The convoy will next head to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei before continuing to Miri on Sept 9, where Al-Sultan Abdullah will visit the Miri Handicraft Centre and witness a demonstration on traditional Sarawak weaving. Al-Sultan Abdullah and his entourage will then stop at Kampung Pangkalan Lutong, a Malay community village in the northern part of Miri city, to attend a tea reception with the community. On Sunday, the Kembara Kenali Borneo tour is scheduled to start with a visit to Pantai Bungai in Bekenu, about 50km south of Miri, to participate in the bermukun, which involves singing, dancing and recital of pantun accompanied by drums, as well as folk sports and a feast. The journey will continue in Bintulu with a stopover at Kampung Penan Muslim Batu 10 for the handing over of aid to the asnaf in the village. The next day, the Kembara Kenali Borneo convoy is scheduled to visit Rumah Raymond Plen, Sungai Gelam in Sebauh, about 44km from Bintulu. The ninth day of the tour will continue to Tatau, a town located about 53km from Bintulu, before travelling 134km to visit the Yu Lung San Tian En Si Temple, a famous Chinese temple located near Sibu. Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah are scheduled to attend a dinner with the community at the MUC Hall and spend the night in Sibu before continuing the next day’s programme by visiting the Sibu Central Market, which is the largest wet market in Malaysia. The 10th day of the tour on Sept 12 will continue with a short visit to Sri Aman about 224km from Sibu and a stop at Fort Alice, a fortress built during Brooke’s rule in Sarawak. Their Majesties will continue their journey to the city of Kuching and are scheduled to attend the closing ceremony of the programme and a state government dinner. Al-Sultan Abdullah and Tunku Azizah will complete the Sarawak leg of the Kembara Kenali Borneo, which covers a total distance of 1,194km, by travelling 139km to Teluk Melano, the starting point for the Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway, before returning to Kuching and heading back to Kuala Lumpur. PM underscores need for regional financial system JAKARTA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated the necessity of a regional financial system that addresses global economic uncertainties and financial risks while enhancing regional economic independence and safety nets. Speaking at the 26th Asean Plus Three Summit meeting on Wednesday, he also addressed concerns related to food security and called for enhanced cooperation in smart agriculture, especially focusing on smallholders. Anwar also urged for cooperation with China, Japan and South Korea in the development of renewable energy, biodiversity assets, and the application of agritechnology and welcomed the adoption of the Asean Plus Three Leaders’ Statement on Developing the Electric Vehicle Ecosystem. The meeting was attended by China’s Premier Li Qiang, Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, South Korea’s President Yoon Suk Yeol and led by Indonesian President Joko Widodo. – Bernama Anwar and US Vice-President Kamala Harris with Asean leaders during the summit. – BERNAMAPIC Gemas-JB electric rail project 92% complete KLUANG: The construction of the Gemas-Johor Bahru electrified double-tracking rail project is currently 92% complete and expected to be completed by 2025, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke. “This whole project needs time to complete as it has been delayed many times, especially due to Covid-19, but now it’s on track. “We hope this project can be completed as soon as possible so that it can connect Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur and Padang Besar,” he told a press conference after witnessing the signing of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the construction of the Kluang Heritage Railway Linear Park at Tunku Ibrahim Ismail Hall yesterday. The electrified double-tracking project covers 192km of tracks going through 11 stations. Once completed, trains can cover the KL Sentral-JB Sentral route in three hours and 30 minutes at a speed of 140km/h. The MoU between the Railway Assets Corporation, Kluang Municipal Council (MPK), SIPP-YTL JV and Think City Sdn Bhd is for the development of the Kluang Heritage Railway Linear Park, which includes a recreational park that will be built under the railway viaduct here. Loke said the construction of the park had been gazetted in the MPK Local Plan 2030 which aims to change the landscape of the surrounding area, thus creating a green network and supporting lowcarbon development. – Bernama India’s expertise could help Asean: PM JAKARTA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has suggested that India’s phenomenal success in digital penetration be shared to benefit all Asean member countries, especially in digital banking and finance as well as in rural areas. “I would certainly feel this one issue India needs to explore and can contribute immensely to our common success,” he said at the 20th Asean-India Summit yesterday. Anwar also encouraged economic cooperation between Asean and India, especially in concluding agreements such as the Asean-India Trade in Goods Agreement by 2025, and leveraging India’s agricultural expertise for smart agriculture in the region. The prime minister said climate change cooperation is also essential by focusing on renewable energy, water management and biodiversity conservation. On geopolitics, Anwar emphasised using friendly relations to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence amid geopolitical challenges, including the South China Sea issue. He also highlighted India’s vital role as a strategic ally and congratulated the country on its historic lunar landing. – Bernama
3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 MUAR: Former Sungai Abong assemblyman Dr Sheikh Ibrahim Sheikh Salleh has described PAS plans to win back the seat now known as Simpang Jeram as futile because the party is no longer relevant in the constituency. Sheikh Ibrahim, the two-time PAS assemblyman for the constituency, said this is because the party’s slogan of “PAS For All”, which is friendly to non-Muslims, has been nonexistent since the passing of its spiritual leader Tan Sri Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat. “PAS used to resonate with my values. At the time, our struggle was friendly with non-Muslims and the ‘PAS For All’ slogan unexpectedly received overwhelming response from Chinese and Indians. It aligned perfectly with my ideals. “But when Nik Aziz died, the slogan died with him. PAS started to be extreme, and today it appears even more extreme with issues related to the Malays and 3R (religion, race, and royalty) issues being played up. This is not suitable for Simpang Jeram,” he said yesterday, adding that it was also the reason he quit the party and joined Amanah in 2019. Sheikh Ibrahim, who is also Pakatan Harapan (PH) election director for Simpang Jeram, said Amanah’s struggle, which also started in Simpang Jeram in 2015, is more in tune with the current societal situation, more open and more moderate, in line with the concept of Rahmatan Lil Alamin, Bernama reported. “When they can’t secure support from the Chinese community, PAS will bring up 3R issues. I believe that in the future, they will become even more extreme because Barisan Nasional (BN) and PH are part of a coalition that is more moderate, including the more moderate DAP and every other party.” Sheikh Ibrahim said PAS’s desire for a second doctor as a candidate in Simpang Jeram and using the Perikatan Nasional (PN) campaign approach of targeting and reaching out to unwell voters was a gimmick to secure votes. “Because I’m a doctor and a local here, I have been serving since I started my duty in the 1980s. Even though I have retired, I am still a doctor providing healthcare to residents here throughout my tenure as the assemblyman. “But this PN candidate serves only during the campaign. There’s a difference between serving during the campaign to attract voters and serving genuinely. He contested here in 2018, and if he intended to serve here, he would contest again in 2022. After losing, he disappeared.” The by-election in Simpang Jeram and Pulai will witness a three-cornered contest between PN, BN-PH, and an independent candidate, with PH candidate Nazri Abdul Rahman facing competition from PAS Central Committee member Dr Mohd Mazri Yahya of PN and independent candidate S. Jeganathan. The Election Commission has set the by-election for both seats to be held simultaneously tomorrow. More Rahmah Sales sites planned for Pulai JOHOR BAHRU: The Rahmah Sales initiative can be strengthened by having more locations to conduct the programme, especially in densely populated areas, said Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate in the Pulai byelection Suhaizan Kaiat. He said he would propose the matter to the government as an effort to help the people deal with cost of living issues. Suhaizan, who was political secretary to the late Domestic Trade and Cost of Living minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub, said this was among his plans to continue with Salahuddin’s legacy if he was elected as the MP for Pulai. “We see that improvements can be made, such as increasing the types of products sold under the Rahmah Sales to include more items other than necessities,” he said at a Rahmah Sales event in the Perling People’s Housing Project here on Wednesday. “The initial initiative was to hold the Rahmah Sales at one location in each state constituency across the country,” he said. The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry’s plan is to implement the Rahmah Sales twice a month in all 640 state constituencies nationwide, beginning August and targeting 6,400 locations. Suhaizan is in a three-cornered fight with Perikatan Nasional’s Zulkifli Jaafar and independent candidate Samsudin Mohamad Fauzi. The Pulai parliamentary and Simpang Jeram state seats fell vacant after the death of Amanah deputy president Salahuddin on July 23. – Bernama ‘PAS no longer relevant in Simpang Jeram’ oParty today not suitable for constituency as it is extreme and raises 3R issues to gain support: Former assemblyman Businesses ready to hire, train locals KUALA LUMPUR: Barbershop, textile outlet and jewellery shop owners have expressed willingness to train locals to meet labour needs. Malaysian Indian Hair Dressing Salon Owners Association assistant secretary M. Meenaq Kumar said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement on the partial approval for recruitment of foreign workers would greatly facilitate their business operations. “It is a good move. For example, my barbershop needs at least two workers to operate. With the government’s approval, I will be able to hire a local and a foreign worker and provide the necessary training. “For us, it’s not a problem because we used to hire locals and trained them, but as they gained more experience and skills, they would leave for a better offer or made enough money to start their own businesses. “So, we still need foreign workers to help run our business.” Meenaq said the announcement is a huge relief for all affected entrepreneurs, as recruitment of foreign workers for the subsectors has been frozen since 2009. On Monday, Anwar announced that the government had approved part of the applications for the recruitment of foreign workers, involving barbershops, textile outlets and goldsmiths. However, he placed a condition that local youths are to be trained to fill up vacancies in the three subsectors. Malaysian Indian Textiles and General Goods Traders Association secretary-general Maheswary Ramasamy said producing a well-trained local workforce would help the industry reduce dependence on foreign labour. “We are always willing to train local workers. In the textile sector for example, we do not require a high level of skill,” he said. Malaysian Indian Goldsmith Jewellers Association president Datuk Abdul Rasull Abdul Razak said the industry is taking a wait-and-see approach pending the Cabinet decision on the matter. He said this was because the sector required a large amount of capital and a skilled workforce, as well as high salary payments of up to RM15,000 per person. “Anwar’s announcement is timely as it can prevent entrepreneurs from shutting down their businesses due to lack of skilled manpower. “Malaysia’s gold and jewellery industry is in dire need of skilled labour, especially from India or Sri Lanka, to meet the demand of customers who prefer unique designs,” he said. – Bernama More shuttle trips for by-elections KLUANG: The Transport Ministry has approved temporary vehicle licences to increase the number of shuttle bus trips between Malaysia and Singapore for the Pulai parliamentary and Simpang Jeram state by-elections tomorrow. Its minister Anthony Loke said the move was also made to reduce congestion at the Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Complex in the Sultan Iskandar building here and Sultan Abu Bakar Complex in Iskandar Puteri following the school holiday season in Singapore. “More than 10 buses will operate from Singapore to Johor Bahru. We also received applications from bus companies to increase the number of trips and they have been given a temporary operating licence, which was granted through the Land Public Transport Agency,” he said after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding for the construction of the Kluang Heritage Railway Linear Park at Dewan Tunku Ibrahim Ismail yesterday. He advised Pulai and Simpang Jeram voters working in Singapore who want to return to vote in the by-elections to use public transport and the additional bus services provided. – Bernama PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry expects the target ratio of one organ donor per million population to be achieved in the near future, said Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa. “The current ratio is 0.7 donors per million population but various efforts are being taken to encourage more people to pledge as organ donors. The rate of organ donation among Malaysians is still among the 10 lowest in the world,” she said at the launch of National Organ Donation Awareness Week yesterday. Zaliha added that there were 370,130 organ donation pledges, of which 22,268 were registered this year. “There is a significant gap between the number of patients on the transplant waiting list, which is 10,747 people, compared with the number of organ donors after death, namely 845 people,” she said. “In general, all religions recognise organ donation as a noble practice. No religion prevents its adherents from doing good,” she said, adding that for Muslims, the National Fatwa Council had issued an edict of harus (allowed) for organ donation and transplantation since June 1970. – Bernama Govt aims to reach organ donor target COLOURFUL CAKES ... Entrepreneur Siti Nordiana Daud from Samariang in Kuching showing her watermelon-inspired kek lapis at her bakery in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. – BERNAMAPIC
4 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER SCAN ME Festival for plant-based lifestyle community PETALING JAYA: The Malaysia Veg Fest is back and bigger than ever in its third edition. Gulshan Rai, co-founder of Veg-Hub, the nation’s sole vegan, vegetarian and plant-based delivery platform, said the event will be held from 11am until 8pm at Paradigm Mall here from today until Sept 11. She said the festival originated from an idea to bring the community together and provide an option to those looking to make a shift to a plant-based lifestyle. “In the second edition, we maintained the core objective of spreading awareness and inspiring people to lead a greener and healthier lifestyle. Some 30,000 visitors turned oActivities include fitness demo, vegan food preparation, yoga session and waste-to-cash recycling programme █ BYALLEN WONG [emailprotected] Court to hear Rosmah’s bid to strike out money laundering charges KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court yesterday fixed Dec 13 to hear Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor’s application to strike out 12 money laundering charges involving RM7,097,750 and five counts of failure to declare her income to the Inland Revenue Board (IRB). Judge K. Muniandy set the date during case management after Datuk Firoz Hussein Ahmad Jamaluddin, representing Rosmah, informed the court that his client made the application on Wednesday. Rosmah, who is the wife of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak, filed a notice of motion to be acquitted and discharged of all 17 charges against her on Oct 4, 2020. In the supporting affidavit, she claimed all the charges were baseless, defective and did not disclose any offence in law. “(They) are based on the fact that I allegedly failed to file the income tax returns required under Section 77(1) of the Income Tax Act 1967, which is contrary to Section 112 of the same Act. “At the material time, the IRB DG had never submitted to me any assessment, request and demand as provided under the Act, which makes the amounts chargeable.” She added that only the Special Commissioners of Income Tax (SCIT) have the right to decide whether the amount was taxable, not the courts. “If the criminal court should proceed to make any such determination, it will be usurping the SCIT’s function. “I have a substantive and constitutional right to be treated fairly and I have a substantive legal right under Part VI of the Act to submit an appeal against any assessment made by the IRB, which has been denied to me in this case.” She allegedly committed the offences at Affin Bank Berhad, Bangunan Getah Asli branch in Jalan Ampang between Dec 4, 2013 and June 8, 2017 and at the IRB Complex at Bangunan Kerajaan in Jalan Tuanku Abdul Halim between May 1, 2014 and May 1, 2018. Her trial started on Aug 24 and two witnesses have testified. – Bernama up for the first two events.” According to Gulshan, Zero Waste Earth Store has been named as their sustainability partner, while the theme this time is “Planting Seeds of Change: Cultivating a Sustainable Future”. “Simply put, we want to implement sustainability in food choices and the way we look at tackling larger topics such as climate change, waste generation and reducing our carbon footprint.” She added that there will be more than 60 booths promoting vegan and vegetarian food, cosmetics, personal care and groceries. Gulshan also said activities during the three-day fair include a panel talk by sustainability advocates, yoga session, waste-to-cash recycling programme and demonstrations by vegan athletes and fitness gurus on the benefits of following a plant-based way of living. University students will also be participating in a Conscious Fashion Show. “We will be joined by renowned vegan and raw food chefs such as Chef Dave and Chef Yin, who will prepare some amazing food during the event.” She said Veg-Hub intends to take the third edition to a higher level compared with the previous ones. “With each iteration of Malaysia Veg Fest, we strove to bring together the plant-based community and advocate a green, environment-friendly lifestyle through our food, clothing and personal care product choices. “We have been encouraging people to bring their reusable bags and containers to minimise waste. We aim to spread the word via our demonstrations, talks and fun activities and by providing visitors with options to enable green choices.” Duo convicted of drug offences escape gallows PUTRAJAYA: Two men escaped the gallows yesterday after their drug trafficking charges were reduced to drug possession. Chow Kum Yuen, 37, was sentenced to 18 years’ jail and 20 strokes of the cane, while S. Inthiran, 31, was given a 12-year term and 10 strokes. They pleaded guilty to the drug possession charges before a Federal Court three-member panel comprising Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat and judges Datuk Harmindar Singh Dhaliwal and Datuk Rhodzariah Bujang. The duo’s cases were heard separately by the panel. On Nov 22, 2019, the High Court found Chow guilty of four charges of drug trafficking and sentenced him to death. His appeal to the Court of Appeal against his conviction and death sentence was dismissed on March 9 last year. Tengku Maimun sentenced Chow to five years’ jail each for the charges of possessing nimetazepam and ketamine and an 18-year term and 10 strokes of the cane each for the remaining charges. She ordered the sentences to run concurrently from the date of his arrest on April 18, 2017. Inthiran, a lorry driver, pleaded guilty to possessing about 2kg of heroin close to a mini market in Jalan Desa Jaya 1, Kamunting in Perak on March 29, 2017. On April 6, 2018, the High Court found him guilty of trafficking and sentenced him to death. His appeal to the Court of Appeal was dismissed on March 10 last year. Tengku Maimun ordered Inthiran to serve 12 years in jail starting from the date of his arrest on March 29, 2017. – Bernama Cross-border cyber crime panel mulled SHAH ALAM: Police are mulling the establishment of a joint committee with their counterparts in Thailand to tackle cross-border cyber crime. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain said the proposal was among those presented during the 26th Thailand-Malaysia Working Committee Meeting on Criminal Activities yesterday. He added that they were aiming to make it easier for both countries to share information. “I will take the proposal for the establishment of the committee to the inspector-general of police for consideration.” – Bernama Two die in fiery crash KUALA LUMPUR: A man and a woman were burnt to death when their car burst into flames after colliding with a container lorry in Jalan Kuala Garing, Rawang yesterday. Selangor Fire and Rescue Department operations division assistant director Ahmad Mukhlis Mukhtar said in a statement firefighters from the Rawang Fire and Rescue station were deployed to the scene after receiving a call at about 4am. “The male victim was aged 26, while the woman was aged 23. The fire destroyed 70% of their vehicle and 50% of the container lorry,” he said, adding that the other driver escaped unhurt. – Bernama Bung Moktar, wife freed of corruption charges KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court yesterday acquitted and discharged Kinabatangan MP Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin and his wife Datin Seri Zizie Izette Abdul Samad of three corruption charges. Judge Datuk Azhar Abdul Hamid allowed the couple’s applications for a revision against a Sessions Court verdict that ordered them to enter their defence on corruption charges involving RM2.8 million linked to a RM150 million Public Mutual Berhad unit trust investment. He ruled that it was a fit and proper case to exercise revisionary powers under Section 323 of the Criminal Procedure Code. “After examining the records of proceedings, this court finds no evidence that 24th prosecution witness and Public Mutual investment agent Madhi Abdul Hamid and 25th prosecution witness and Unit Amanah consultant Norhaili Ahmad Mokhtar had given money to Bung Mokhtar through his wife. “So, the (verdict) of the Sessions Court to call for their defence is a miscarriage of justice. I hereby invoke Section 325 of the Code to acquit and discharge both of them.” The prosecution was led by DPP Low Chin How, while Datuk K. Kumaraendran and M. Athimulan represented Bung Mokhtar, 63, and Zizie Izette, 44, respectively. – Bernama Bung Moktar and Zizie Izette at the High Court yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC
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6 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Japan boyband agency admits founder’s sexual abuse TOKYO: The president of Japan’s biggest and most successful boyband agency admitted yesterday that its late founder sexually abused young aspiring stars, decades after allegations first emerged. Johnny Kitagawa died aged 87 in 2019, having engineered the birth of J-pop mega-groups including SMAP, TOKIO and Arashi that amassed adoring fans across Asia. Allegations that he abused young men who wanted to be stars surfaced in Japanese media in 1999. But it was not until this year that they ignited full-on soul-searching, following a BBC documentary and denunciations by victims. “Both the agency itself and I myself as a person recognise that sex abuse by Johnny Kitagawa took place,” said Julie Fujishima, a niece of the accused music mogul who died in 2019. “I apologise to his victims from the bottom of my heart,” she told a packed news conference in Tokyo while announcing she was stepping down as head of Johnny & Associates “to take responsibility”. Fujishima, 57, who said she had stepped down effective Tuesday, named singer and actor Noriyuki Higashiyama, a veteran member of the talent agency, as her successor. Kitagawa had successfully sued for defamation over the claims, although the verdict was partially overturned on appeal. He was never criminally charged. A panel of experts last month released the results of its first, in-depth probe, concluding that Kitagawa’s abuse went as far back as the 1950s, even before the company was founded. Over the years, aspiring boyband idols collectively dubbed “Johnny’s Jrs” sought his tutelage, and the panel estimated that at least “a few hundred” of them had been victimised. The report also quoted former recruits alleging in graphic detail how Kitagawa would perform oral sex on them, fondle their genitals or force his way into their beds at night. The panel said Fujishima, who was named Kitagawa’s successor after his death, had been “remiss” in her duties because she failed to probe the allegations despite her knowledge of them. Her attitude perpetuated the leadership’s tendency to look the other way, the report said. – AFPB R I E F S ‘DEMOCRACY HOPES CRUSHED IN MYANMAR’ JAKARTA: Hopes of a return to democracy in junta-ruled Myanmar are being crushed by “systematic repression”, United Nations secretary-general Antonio Guterres said yesterday at a summit in Indonesia with the United States, China and regional leaders. “Brutal violence, worsening poverty, and systematic repression are crushing hopes for a return to democracy,” Guterres said before a meeting with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), of which Myanmar is a member. “The situation is untenable,” he said. The junta was not in attendance after being barred from attending Asean summits until it implements a five-point peace plan agreed two years ago. – AFP CHINESE DELEGATION TO VISIT NORTH KOREA PYONGYANG: A high-level delegation of Chinese officials will visit North Korea this week to attend celebrations for a key national holiday, both sides said yesterday. Pyongyang celebrates the 75th anniversary of the country’s founding day on Sept 9 and the nuclear-armed state has previously indicated it will hold a “militia parade” to mark the event. A delegation headed by China Vice-Premier Liu Guozhong “will visit the DPRK to participate in the celebrations of the 75th birthday”, of the country, the official Korean Central News Agency said, using the country’s official acronym. The visit came “on the invitation” of North Korea’s government, it added. China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the trip. – AFP Australia premier to visit China soon JAKARTA: Australia and China have made progress in returning to “unimpeded trade” and more is needed, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said yesterday as he met Chinese Premier Li Qiang at a regional summit in Indonesia. Albanese, who took office last year at the head of government intent on patching up relations with Australia’s biggest trading partner, also said that he would visit China this year, the first by an Australian leader since 2016, and confirmation of a significant step in stabilising ties. “The progress we have made in resuming unimpeded trade is good for both countries and we want to see that progress continue,” Albanese said in his opening comments at the meeting in Jakarta. Relations between the two countries were virtually frozen for years over various issues including an Australian call for an international inquiry into the origins of Covid-19. China responded with a raft of trade reprisals on Australian exports. But with their interactions warming, China recently lifted tariffs on Australian barley exports. Australia still wants curbs on wine and oBeijing says it is ready to resume economic exchanges with Canberra lobsters and other exports lifted. Albanese said that while Australia’s views would not always align with China they had to talk. “We understand dialogue is absolutely critical.” Li also welcomed the improvement in relations and said China was ready to work with Australia to resume economic exchanges and to safeguard peace and stability in the region. “China-Australia relations have maintained a positive momentum of improvement thanks to the concerted efforts of both sides over the past year.” China hoped Australia would adopt an “objective and fair” attitude towards Chinese firms investing and operating in Australia. In a statement, Albanese referred to the anniversary of the first visit to communist China by an Australian leader, then prime minister Gough Whitlam, in 1973. “I look forward to visiting China later this year to mark the 50th anniversary of prime minister Whitlam’s historic visit.” Albanese said he raised human rights cases in his talks, including detained Australian journalists Cheng Lei and Yang Hengjun, telling reporters he had said Australians “want to see Cheng Lei reunited with her children”. Albanese will travel next to the Philippines, the first bilateral visit by an Australian leader in 20 years, after a period of renewed tension between the Philippines and China in waters they both claim in the South China Sea. Australia last month held military exercises near the South China Sea with the Philippines and has said it planned joint navy patrols. – Reuters Japan launches ‘Moon Sniper’ mission TOKYO: Japan’s “Moon Sniper” mission blasted off yesterday as the country’s space programme looks to bounce back from a string of recent mishaps, weeks after India’s historic lunar triumph. Only the US, Russia, China and India have successfully landed a probe on the Moon, with two failed Japanese missions – one public and one private. Watched by 35,000 people online, the HIIA rocket lifted off early yesterday from the southern island of Tanegashima carrying the lander, which is expected to touch down on the lunar surface early next year. To cheers and applause at mission control, the “SLIM” Moon probe and the XRISM space research satellite developed with the US and European space agencies both separated soon afterwards. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) is nicknamed the “Moon Sniper” because it is designed to land within 100m of a specific target on the surface. That is much less than the usual range of several kilometres. “By creating the SLIM lander, humans will make a qualitative shift towards being able to land where we want and not just where it is easy to land,” Japanese space agency Jaxa said before the launch. “By achieving this, it will become possible to land on planets even more resource-scarce than the Moon.” Globally, “there are no previous instances of pinpoint landing on celestial bodies with significant gravity such as the Moon”, the agency added. – AFP Fiji to deport members of South Korean ‘cult’ SUVA: High-ranking members of South Korea’s “Grace Road Cult” will be kicked out of Fiji, immigration authorities said yesterday, as the government cracks down on the powerful religious sect. Grace Road Church founder Shin Ok-ju prophesied that South Korea would be doomed by famine and disaster, persuading hundreds of followers in 2014 to start a new life in tropical Fiji. The movement quickly established political and commercial clout in its new home, snapping up swathes of agricultural land and building a sprawling network of successful companies. But it was also dogged by claims of bizarre and violent rituals, with Shin being imprisoned by South Korean authorities in 2019 on a string of criminal charges. Home Minister Pio Tikoduadua said Interpol had urged Fiji’s previous government to arrest senior cult members – but this request had been ignored for years. Tikoduadua said seven cult members, including Shin’s son Daniel Kim, had been declared “prohibited immigrants” and would be sent back to South Korea. Two fugitive members had evaded police and “remain at large”, he added. Some ex-followers told journalists that those who attempted to leave the cult were punished with severe public beatings known as “ground threshings”. – AFP MAKESHIFT BOAT ... Rescue personnel evacuating residents from a flooded area following heavy rains caused by Typhoon Haikui in the southern China city of Xiamen. – AFPPIC
7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM SCAN ME PARIS: The United Nations called yesterday for strict rules on the use of AI tools such as viral chatbot ChatGPT in classrooms, including limiting their use to older children. In new guidance for governments, the UN’s education body Unesco warned that public authorities were not ready to deal with the ethical issues of rolling out “generative” artificial intelligence programmes in schools. The Paris-based body said relying on such programmes rather than human teachers could affect a child’s emotional wellbeing and leave them vulnerable to manipulation. “Generative AI can be a tremendous opportunity for human development, but it can also cause harm and prejudice,” said Unesco director-general Audrey Azoulay. “It cannot be integrated into education without public engagement, and the necessary safeguards and regulations from governments.” Generative AI programmes burst into the spotlight late last year, with ChatGPT demonstrating an ability to generate essays, poems and conversations from the briefest prompts. It sparked fears of plagiarism and cheating in schools and universities. But investors poured money into the field and boosters targeted education as a possible lucrative market. The Uneco guidance said AI tools have the potential to help children with special needs, act as an opponent in “Socratic dialogues” or as a research assistant. But the tools would only be safe and effective if teachers, learners and researchers helped to design them and governments regulated their use. The guidance stopped short of recommending a minimum age for schoolchildren but pointed out that ChatGPT had a lower age limit of 13. “Many commentators understand this threshold to be too young and have advocated for legislation to raise the age to 16,” said the guidance. – AFP Freddie Mercury piano sells for £3 million LONDON: The piano Queen frontman Freddie Mercury used to compose almost all of his greatest songs and the original manuscript for Bohemian Rhapsody were snapped up for over £3 million (RM17 million) on Wednesday when they went under the hammer here. The Sotheby’s auction room echoed to the sound of the track We Will Rock You before bidding began at the black-tie evening auction. The items were among over 1,400 lots of Mercury memorabilia up for grabs over the next week, with the auction house’s facade decorated with a huge moustache for the occasion. The 59 lots sold on Wednesday brought in £12,172,290, Sotheby’s said, adding that each one went for more than double the estimated price. Mercury’s Yamaha quarter-tail piano went for £1,742,000, including buyer’s premium and fees, while the manuscript for the epic hit song Bohemian Rhapsody fetched £1,379,000. Auctioneer Oliver Barker called the Bohemian Rhapsody lyrics – contained in 15-pages of pencil and ballpoint pen remarks – a “modern cultural icon”. The manuscript also reveals that Mercury, who died from AIDS in 1991, originally intended to call the song Mongolian Rhapsody. Mercury’s cherished baby grand was purchased by the charismatic star in 1975 after an exhaustive six-month search for “the ideal instrument to bring to life” his compositions. A record 2,000 bidders from 61 countries registered to take part in the sale. Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Mercury Phoenix Trust and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, two organisations involved in the fight against AIDS. – AFP UN calls for strict rules on AI use in schools oPublic authorities not ready to deal with ethical issues of such tools, says Unesco Escaped killer evades American cops in huge manhunt WASHINGTON: The manhunt continued for a sixth day on Wednesday for a convicted murderer who escaped from prison in Pennsylvania, with local schools closed and residents asked to lock their doors. Almost a week after 34-year Brazilian national Danelo Cavalcante slipped away from the Chester County Prison, hundreds of law enforcement officers with helicopters, drones and search dogs were still out in full force looking for the fugitive. “Residents are asked to lock their doors, check their cars and belongings, and to stay aware of their surroundings,” the Chester County District Attorney’s office said in a statement. The fugitive was last spotted on Tuesday. “Last evening, we had another sighting of Cavalcante by a resident in the area,” Pennsylvania State Police official George Bevins told reporters. “The team searched the area for hours but were unable to locate him.” Prison officials on Wednesday released a video showing how Cavalcante, who was sentenced to life in prison for stabbing his girlfriend to death, was able to make his escape. In the clip, the convict, wearing a white tee-shirt, jeans and sneakers, is seen crab-walking up two parallel walls and then climbing to the roof. Bevins warned residents that Cavalcante was likely looking to burglarise their homes looking for food, clothes and other supplies. “Cavalcante has clearly already obtained some clothing and unknown other supplies and we want to minimise any opportunity to obtain anything more. “It is important that we keep pressure on him as we continue the hunt.” Schools were closed as a precaution and police warned the public in areas west of Philadelphia. Cavalcante was sighted on Monday night via trail cameras at a botanical garden near Philadelphia. Footage showed the man carrying a backpack and duffel bag in the dark. Ryan Drummond, who lives nearby, told local ABC News television that Cavalcante had broken into his house on Friday night. “I woke up my wife and said ‘I think there might be someone downstairs’,” he said, describing how Cavalcante stole peaches, apples and green snap peas from the family kitchen, then walked out. Cavalcante escaped from Chester County Prison on Aug 31 after receiving a life sentence the week before for stabbing his girlfriend 38 times in front of her children in 2021. – AFP Russia slams US supply of depleted uranium shells to Ukraine WASHINGTON: The US providing depleted uranium tank ammunition to Ukraine “is a clear sign of inhumanity”, Russia’s embassy in Washington said Wednesday. The ammunition will be among more than US$1 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Ukraine announced earlier by the US. The 120mm rounds are for M1 Abrams tanks that are expected to be delivered to Ukraine before the end of 2023. The US decision “is a clear sign of inhumanity”, the Russian embassy said on Telegram. “Washington, obsessed with the idea of inflicting a ‘strategic defeat’ on Russia, is ready to fight not only to the last Ukrainian but to put a cross on the future generations.” Depleted uranium munitions are controversial due to their association with health problems such as cancer and birth defects in areas where they were used in past conflicts, though they have not been definitively proven to have caused such issues. “The US is deliberately transferring weapons with indiscriminate effects,” the embassy said. “It is fully aware of the consequences: explosions of such munitions result in the formation of a moving radioactive cloud.” “This is very bad news,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. “The use of these shells has resulted in a galloping increase in the number of cancer patients. The same situation will inevitably await those Ukrainian territories where they will be used.” The Russian embassy said that in supplying the rounds, the US was “deeply indifferent to both the present of Ukraine and the future of the republic and its European neighbours”. “The Russian army will continue to methodically grind the weaponry sent” to Ukraine, it added. – AFP B R I E F STOP MEXICAN COURT DECRIMINALISES ABORTION MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s Supreme Court on Wednesday decriminalised abortion across the conservative Latin American country, moving in contrast to the US where federally guaranteed abortion rights were overturned last year. The court said on social media “that the legal system that penalises abortion in the Federal Penal Code is unconstitutional, since it violates the human rights of women and people with the capacity to gestate.” It follows a similar Supreme Court ruling two years ago that abortion was not a crime, de facto authorising it throughout Mexico. That declaration opens the way for women across the country to access the procedure without fear of prosecution. – AFP TEEN DIES AFTER TRAFFIC COLLISION WITH POLICE CAR PARIS: A 16-year-old boy died on Wednesday following a collision between his scooter and a police vehicle west of Paris, just over two months after a teen’s fatal shooting by police sparked a week of riots. The deceased is accused of failing to comply with officers, a police source said, adding that he was being “followed at a distance” by a police car through Elancourt, a town around 30km outside Paris. He collided with “another police vehicle” at an intersection, the source added. The teenager was initially revived from respiratory and cardiac arrest by first responders and brought to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries, prosecutors said. – AFP Firefighters working to put out a blaze that broke out at a building following a Russian strike on the eastern Ukrainian city of Kostyantynivka. – AFPPIC
8 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 SPEAK UP READ OUR HERE /thesundaily SCAN ME Dealing with teenage emotions Q: Reflecting on my tumultuous teenage years, I am concerned about my 12-year-old daughter’s emotional well-being during this difficult phase. As her mother, what steps can I take to support her through this challenging period in her life? Focus on the Family Malaysia: The importance of a mother in a teenage daughter’s life cannot be overstated. Mothers are role models, and they are usually the parent with whom a teenage daughter feels comfortable seeking advice. However, probably the most important thing you can do for her is to be an attentive listener. One of the first steps to take is to ensure that you are available to her as much as you can. Teenagers’ emotions can be quite unpredictable, and your daughter may not always be inclined to talk when it is most convenient for you. She may choose to engage with you either in the morning or later at night, so it is advisable to seize the opportunity when she is ready to talk. Mothers should spare a few minutes from their tasks, establish eye contact and attentively listen to their daughters. Allowing her to speak her mind without interruption is important. She may want to talk about the rough day she had at school or issues with friends. Regardless of the problem, do not finish her sentences or attempt to invalidate her feelings, even if they seem perplexing to you. Such reactions can cause her to withdraw emotionally, making it less likely for her to confide in you in the future. Naturally, you may want to offer advice to your daughter from time to time, which is commendable. However, be sure to listen first before offering advice. In most cases, what she needs more than advice is the opportunity to be heard. Q: My spouse and I have found ourselves in a significant amount of debt. While we know that we need to work out a budget and pay off what we owe, we are not on the same page about the urgency and benefits of becoming debt-free. How can we address this? Focus on the Family Malaysia: Money is generally one of the biggest stressors in marriage. Financial expert Dave Ramsey emphasises that couples must work together on their finances. You are more likely to stay committed to your budget when both of you share common goals. If your spouse is not on the same page, Ramsey suggests honest and open communication. Let your spouse know that you are enthusiastic about becoming debt-free. Encourage your spouse to read articles that highlight the advantages of living on a budget. If your spouse remains hesitant, Ramsey suggests writing down your specific concerns and the reasons they are important to you. Sharing your thoughts and feelings in writing can be an effective way of getting your spouse’s attention. In many cases, it is women who are more eager about becoming debt-free while their husbands may be more reluctant. If you are in this situation, Ramsey has one hard-andfast rule: do not nag. Nagging rarely works and can drive a deeper wedge between you and your spouse. As for husbands, if your wife has resorted to nagging, step up before the situation worsens. Getting out of debt and living on a budget is in both your interests, and you need to do your part to make it happen. Like most aspects of a marriage, getting on a sound financial footing requires a team effort. The article was contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and strengthening the family unit. It provides a myriad of programmes and resources, including professional counselling services, to the community. For more information, visit family.org.my. Comments: [emailprotected] Urgent need for public housing support THE recent report that Kuala Lumpur City Hall had disconnected water supply to residents living in a People’s Housing Project due to unpaid rent raises concerns about the authorities’ approach. This decision reflects the lack of empathy by the authorities and disregard for the hardships experienced by the occupants of the public housing units. The economic repercussions of Covid-19 have affected individuals in lower-income brackets, especially those residing in public housing. Job losses and salary reductions have resulted in instances of unpaid rent due to financial constraints rather than a lack of willingness to meet obligations. Disconnecting water supply to these tenants will not only worsen their difficulties but will also have implications for the government’s reputation, especially the local authorities. This action will compromise sanitation and hygiene standards and jeopardise the residents’ physical and mental well-being. When local authorities resort to such measures, it tarnishes their reputation in the community, portraying them to be insensitive to the tenants and the prevailing pandemic-induced challenges they are facing. Additionally, the local authorities can face legal repercussions for failing to provide essential utilities, which will further harm their standing. Prioritising the tenants’ welfare while finding alternative solutions for rental payment will cast the government in a favourable light. While providing direct financial allowances and subsidies to public housing tenants may offer support, it will not address the underlying issue. Several strategies can be employed to address the challenges faced by public housing tenants. Firstly, implement a comprehensive payment plan that includes rent deferrals to alleviate the financial strain on these residents. S i m u l t a n e o u s l y, e n c o u r a g e tenants to participate in government assistance programmes tailored to their specific needs, which will provide a comprehensive approach to financial relief. Secondly, initiate specialised financial literacy programmes to enhance tenants’ money management capabilities. Providing guidance on financial management will help tenants to budget, educate them about saving and enable them to make informed financial decisions. This approach will empower tenants to improve their knowledge in finance management while also demonstrating the government’s compassionate approach to managing the public housing programme. Finally, offer flexible leasing arrangements and engage with the tenants to reduce instances of unpaid rent among residents. Introducing short-term lease options can help during their changing employment situations, allowing tenants to adjust their lease agreements to fit with their financial conditions. Implementing a work exchange programme, where tenants can contribute their skills in maintenance or administration in return for reduced rent, is another approach to alleviate financial pressure while promoting a sense of community and tenant engagement. During these difficult times, the cooperative spirit reflected in the Malaysia Madani concept is crucial. The proposed solutions emphasise inclusivity and ensure that no one in society is left behind. We should extend our support to public housing tenants and not overlook their needs during these challenging times. Through collaboration and shared responsibility, we can promote a resilient Kuala Lumpur and build a strong and harmonious community. Dr Woon Chin Ong School of Art, Future Cities Research Institute Sunway University Dr Serena Leow School of Art Sunway University Dr Kenneth Leow School of Social Sciences Heriot-Watt University Impose vandalism laws to curb menace VANDALISM poses a serious threat to our social fabric and well-being of the people. Acts of vandalism occur almost every day, targeting various locations, such as lifts at housing flats, public parks, road signs, bus stops and other public amenities. In some areas, even manhole covers and aluminium signs are not spared. These wanton acts are a stark reminder to the authorities that more effective action must be taken to tackle this menace in our midst. Local authorities spend tens of millions of ringgit to repair public amenities and property that have been vandalised. This menace is not only confined to Kuala Lumpur. Cities and towns throughout the country are facing similar problems and have to cope with them. In many ways, Malaysians are a compassionate people. However, when it comes to public property, some individuals abandon good behaviour and leave a trail of destruction. This behaviour is disheartening, especially since it renders public amenities unusable. While vandalism in Malaysia is not as severe as seen in many Western countries, the extent of the damage is still a serious problem that must be tackled effectively. According to psychiatrists, there are several categories of vandals. These include teenagers influenced by negative peer pressure, graffiti crawlers who leave messages, frustrated groups that vandalise to vent their anger, drug addicts who engage in such activities to obtain items for sale and adults who have a history of vandalising since childhood. Vandalism must be tackled via education, inculcation of good values, social responsibility and civic consciousness. However, education alone is not sufficient. It must be backed by stringent legislation and strong enforcement. The existing vandalism by-laws enforced by various local authorities are inadequate to rid the nation of this problem. There is a need for new federal legislation to deal with this problem, which should incorporate compulsory community service to publicly shame culprits and provisions for caning habitual offenders. It is imperative to introduce a Vandalism Act that allows deterrent punishment and mandatory community service. This can be undertaken given the amendment of Article 6 of the Federal Constitution, which formerly prohibited forced labour, several years ago. The proposed Vandalism Act should provide for: i. Those who commit any act of vandalism shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on conviction to compulsory community service in accordance with the number of hours to be determined by the relevant authorities. ii. For habitual offenders (more than three times), those guilty of offences shall be liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years and shall also, subject to section 231 of the Criminal Procedure Code, be punished with caning. While the prevalence of vandalism may not be cause for alarm, it remains a serious concern and warrants stringent laws to deal with the problem. This should complement efforts to raise awareness and discourage vandalism through specific campaigns. Given the challenges authorities face in apprehending vandals in the act, the public can play a role in addressing the issue by making a citizen’s arrest when they catch individuals in the act of defacing public property. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Kuala Lumpur Local authorities spend tens of millions of ringgit to repair public amenities and property that have been vandalised. – REUTERSPIC LETTERS [emailprotected] UNDER ONE ROOF
8 S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3 F R I D A Y Stop the buying Stop the buying and adopt on S2 Saving one stray will not change the world, but for that one stray, the world will change forever The best global street eats that are cheap and amazing Simple pasta recipes anyone can whip up at home See which signs have lady luck smiling for them page S4 page S5 page S3
2 theSun LYFE ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 oThe benefits of adopting a rescue pet I N a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the simple act of adopting a rescue pet can bring profound joy and meaning to our lives. Beyond the heartwarming stories we often see on social media, the decision to welcome a rescue pet into your home comes with a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond wagging tails and purring companions. Let us delve into the transformative power of rescue pet adoption and how it can change both the lives of animals and their human counterparts. Every year, millions of animals find themselves in shelters, desperately in need of a loving home. These animals come from various backgrounds, some abandoned by their owners, others rescued from abusive situations, and many just unlucky enough to have been b o r n without a safe haven. While the stories behind these animals may be heartbreaking, their potential to bring happiness and healing to their new families is immeasurable. Second Chance One of the most significant benefits of adopting a rescue pet is the opportunity to give a second chance to a creature in need. These animals have often experienced hardship, making their resilience and capacity for love all the more remarkable. When you adopt a rescue pet, you become a part of their redemption story, offering them the chance to live a life filled with love and care. This act of kindness not only changes their fate but also transforms your own life in the process. Journey of self-discovery For many individuals, adopting a rescue pet becomes a journey of selfdiscovery and personal growth. The responsibility of caring for an animal can be a profound life lesson in empathy, patience and compassion. Rescue pets often come with their own quirks and challenges, which require understanding and dedication. As you work through these challenges, you learn about the power of unconditional love and the strength of the human-animal bond. Improves well-being The therapeutic benefits of having a rescue pet in your life cannot be overstated. Numerous studies have shown that interacting with animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The simple act of petting a dog or stroking a cat can release endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that boost our mood and overall well-being. Rescue pets, with their extraordinary capacity for forgiveness and love, become healers in their own right, offering solace to those who may be struggling with life’s challenges. Children, in particular, can greatly benefit from having a rescue pet as part of their upbringing. The bond between a child and their pet is unique and powerful, fostering a sense of responsibility, empathy, and companionship. Rescue pets teach children about kindness, respect for all living creatures, and the importance of giving back to their community. Societal benefit Beyond the personal rewards, adopting a rescue pet also contributes to a broader societal benefit. When you adopt, you help reduce the burden on overcrowded shelters, making room for more animals in need. Your adoption fee supports the shelter’s ongoing efforts to rescue, rehabilitate and care for other animals. Moreover, by adopting a rescue pet, you set an example for others in your community, promoting the idea that shelter animals are deserving of loving homes just as much as those from breeders. In recent years, the trend of adopting rescue pets has gained momentum, with celebrities and influencers proudly sharing their adoption stories on social media. This visibility has further highlighted the joys and benefits of rescue pet adoption and inspired countless others to follow suit. Animal rescue organisations and shelters have also played a vital role in this movement, making the adoption process more accessible and transparent, dispelling myths about rescue pets, and promoting responsible pet ownership. While the decision to adopt a rescue pet is undoubtedly rewarding, it should not be taken lightly. Prospective pet owners should consider their lifestyle, living situation, and the long-term commitment required to ensure the well-being of their new furry family member. Proper research, preparation, and patience are essential to a successful adoption experience. In conclusion, adopting a rescue pet is not just about saving a life; it’s about transforming your own life through love, compassion and companionship. These animals, often overlooked or forgotten, have the power to bring joy and healing to their human counterparts. They offer us the chance to become better versions of ourselves, teaching us valuable lessons in empathy and unconditional love. By opening our hearts and homes to rescue pets, we become part of a growing movement that celebrates the incredible bond between humans and animals, a bond that changes the world, one wagging tail and purring heart at a time. █ BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Adopting a pet has numerous health benefits. – FREEPIK You will save money by adopting a rescue pet. – FREEPIK Adopting an animal from a shelter means that your new pet has been spayed and neutered. – PEXELS There are a wide variety of animals waiting to be adopted from shelters. – PEXELS Rescue awards
theSun LYFE ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 3 0 ARIES Mar 21-Apr 19 If you’re not careful, you will get swept into someone else’s web of lies. Someone has great ideas and great promises, but it could turn out to be all talk and no action. Make sure agreements are signed and sealed before starting a new project or partnership. Energy levels may fluctuate, so do bring in some balance in your work-life equation. Moderate your drinking and eating before the medical bills start piling up. It’s never too late to make a beneficial change for your health. 0TAURUS April 20-May 20 Delay after delay after delay. Count to 10 if you haven’t yet, cause this is the week of learning patience. Deadlines may change. People may frustrate you with their attitude and the plane may not take off on time. Beyond your control. No point reacting. How about learning to accept the situation and doing something else in the meantime? Romantically, the person you are eyeing may be playing games with you. Figure out their game plan and make your move before it’s too late. 0 GEMINI May 21-June 20 If you are feeling nervous about something new, don’t. You may discover your natural talent for something you never knew before. People recognise and value you for who you are. Don’t seek approval, go inwards and believe in yourself. A period is about to begin in your life where you will need to reach out to a larger audience. The more self-assured you are, the greater your success will be. A social contact made now will prove to be very valuable later. 0 CANCER June 21-July 22 Stop running away from your fears and take a reality check. Sleep patterns may go haywire. What you fear the most is not going to happen, so breathe easy. Learn to relax in the present moment instead of constantly worrying about the future. At work, a coworker’s sudden resignation or departure may send everyone into a tizzy. It is a good time to hang out with your girlfriends. Women have a lot of positive influence on your life and now’s the time to absorb it all. 0 LEO July 23-Aug 22 You know it’s time for a change when you just don’t feel like going to work anymore. How about polishing your resume or meeting up with some old colleagues? Get the ball rolling. The cards do predict changes coming up for you, but first, you will need to do some work for it. Personally, things run smoothly, there’s peace within you which reflects in your relationships with your closest ones. A wonderful phase to drop an old habit. Your willpower is at its strongest now. 0VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 If there’s anything to say about the week ahead, expect the unexpected. Events may take you by surprise or a sudden decision could change your life forever. A part of you may feel like walking away or forgetting the pain of the past, but it will be hard. Seek help or healing. Travel plans may be sudden and unexpected. Remember the pessimism you feel will be replaced by joy and whatever is happening is only temporary. Hang in there and if what you think or hear is negative, don’t believe it. 0 LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 If money makes the world go round, your world is spinning in the days ahead. Old payments, old dues, sudden windfalls, it may all come together. A good time to invest in something and if you are planning to travel, plans will get finalised. An old friend may want to meet you. Brainstorming leads to a wonderful new direction and you rediscover an old passion or hobby that somehow makes this world a little more interesting again. 0SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov21 Honesty is the best policy. A little white lie can lead to a major misunderstanding. Sometimes, something said innocently escalates into a full-blown argument. Watch your words. Before you shoot out of your mouth, please think. A lover or a mate may act possessive or jealous and it would be best to handle it sensitively. Remember, they aren’t going to change. On the work front, an important decision could bring about sudden changes in the whole company. Be mindful of how you treat your colleagues. 0Sagittarius Nov 22-Dec 21 Ouch, you’re irritable and don’t we all know it? Though you may appear calm on the outside, inside you may be boiling. Before you explode, please introspect. Figure out what’s making you so angry and do something to release the emotion peacefully before you have a scene or a showdown. You may feel treated unfairly at work or discover a friend was actually a rival. Pay attention to your health. Your body has been giving you signals for a while now. 0CAPRICORN Dec 22-Jan19 If something is meant to be, realise that it will come to you when it has to. When you stop expecting or trying too hard, things begin to happen. You may discover that you are not the cause and are truly powerless to change what is happening around you. Let go of something that’s just bringing you down unnecessarily. A relationship that was under strain shows signs of harmony again. If you were worried about any payment, it will be received. 0AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Some things can not be done alone. Ask for help and it will arrive. You will get a job in a dream company because of someone’s recommendation. All the good things you have done for others are returned in the form of praise, help, advice and promotion. Revel in good karma, you’ve earned it! A good time to feel grateful for your blessings and, most importantly, to pay kindness forward with acts of charity. 0PISCES Feb 19-March 20 The ball is in your court and everyone’s waiting for you to decide and choose. One tip, instead of postponing the decision, how about listening to your inner voice? It knows exactly what you should be doing. Avoid critical people like the plague and make sure you’re doing something for yourself. If it gets too overwhelming, tell everyone you need some time and go get it! A lucky week for finding romance and taking a few risks. Your weekend horoscope Baby animal fun facts Baby parrots respond to their names. You may already know that parrots have the ability to talk. (Polly, want a cracker?) But did you know that parent parrots name their chicks, just like us? Scientists call these names “signature contact calls”. Baby parrots receive a name at birth and respond to that call for the rest of their lives! A baby blue whale can gain 250 pounds in a single day. If you thought you put on weight easily, think again! According to US Whales, the calves of the largest animals on earth put on as much as 10lbs (4.5 kg) an hour, or over 250lbs (113.3 kg) each day! That means that the baby blue whale will gain over a tonne within 20 days. Baby turtles speak to each other before they even hatch. Surviving in nature is no easy task. So, animals often work together to make it in this big world. And for baby turtles, that teamwork begins before they hatch. Researchers discovered that turtles make sounds while still inside their eggs to communicate with other babies. Chirps and grunts help to coordinate hatching as a survival mechanism to avoid predators like birds or crocodiles. Puppies can be born as identical twins. What’s better than one puppy? How about two? A vet in South Baby parrot oThese special creatures will never fail to make you smile Puppies Koala joey Piglet Baby panda Baby rabbit Africa discovered that dogs can be born as identical twins, and this was confirmed by scientists. Identical twins are a rare occurrence in any animal species. Baby elephants don’t know how to use their trunks when they are born. Baby elephants grow up into impressive-sized adults. But when they are first born, they can barely use their trunks. Picture a baby elephant stumbling around and tripping over its trunk. These clumsy little creatures also blow lots of bubbles when learning how to drink. It’s too cute not to giggle. Baby pandas are born incredibly small. Although giant pandas can grow up to 300lbs (136 kg) and 5ft tall (1.4m), their cubs are born pocket-sized in c o m p a r i s o n , according to N a t i o n a l G e o g r a p h i c . Baby pandas only weigh about three ounces (100gm) at birth. Baby reptiles have an egg tooth to crack out of their shells when born. Most baby reptiles, including crocodiles, have a special egg tooth. According to Science Direct, they use it to crack the shell of the egg when they are born. Eventually, after birth, the tooth is reabsorbed into the body. Baby macaques make snowballs for fun. Macaques are a monkey species that inhabits ranges throughout Asia, North Africa, and Gibraltar. When it snows, babies get playful and make snowballs. Baby rabbits are also called kittens. Baby cats aren’t the only ones called kittens. Baby rabbits are also called kittens or kits. Another fun fact from the MSPCA is that rabbits typically give birth to litters of four to 12 kittens after only being pregnant for 30 days. Baby blue whale. Baby turtles Baby elephant Baby koalas are called Joeys. Although koalas may look like monkeys or small bears, they are actually marsupials, a type of mammal with pouches to hold newborns. Infant koalas, called Joeys, immediately climb into their mother’s pouch after birth using their natural instincts. Newborn piglets run to their mother’s voice. Pigs are extremely intelligent animals, said to be smarter than dogs. Newborn piglets, scientists say, can even recognise their mother’s voice by the time they turn two weeks old. Sows are also known to sing their little ones to sleep. Baby crocodile Baby macaques
4 theSun LYFE ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 Delicious and easy pasta recipes PASTA is a beloved dish worldwide, with countless variations to suit every palate. From creamy and comforting to light and tangy, pasta dishes offer something for everyone. 0 Spaghetti aglio e olio Aglio e olio is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its simplicity and incredible flavours. The dish features garlic-infused olive oil and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Ingredients: 400g spaghetti 4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference) 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Grated Parmesan cheese (optional) Salt and pepper to taste Instructions Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until the garlic turns golden brown and becomes fragrant. Once the spaghetti is drained, add it to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Toss the pasta well in the infused oil until it’s evenly coated. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving. 0 Creamy Carbonara Carbonara is a rich and indulgent pasta dish with a silky sauce made from eggs, cheese, and pancetta. It’s a favourite among pasta lovers and sure to impress your guests. Ingredients 400g spaghetti 150g sausages, diced 3 large egg yolks 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese 1/2 cup heavy cream Freshly ground black pepper Salt to taste Chopped fresh parsley for garnish Instructions Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. While the pasta cooks, sauté the diced pancetta in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Set aside. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, heavy cream, and a generous amount of freshly ground black pepper. Once the spaghetti is drained, return it to the pot. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta and toss quickly to coat the strands evenly. Add the crispy pancetta and toss again. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired creaminess. Season with salt to taste and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. 0 Pesto Pasta Pesto pasta is a vibrant and refreshing Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – PICS BY FREEPIK oHere are four easy and mouthwatering pasta recipes that will have you and your loved ones coming back for more █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Creamy Carbonara dish that celebrates the flavours of fresh basil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Ingredients 400g of pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well). 2 cups of fresh basil leaves 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup pine nuts 2 garlic cloves 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Cherry tomatoes and additional Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional) Instructions Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. In a food processor or blender, combine the fresh basil, grated Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic cloves. Pulse until the mixture becomes a coarse paste. Gradually add the olive oil while the processor is running until the pesto is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the pasta is drained, return it to the pot. Add the pesto sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the pesto pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and additional grated Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving. 0 Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a light and refreshing option that combines succulent shrimp with zesty lemon and garlic. Ingredients 400g linguine or fettuccine 500g medium shrimp, peeled 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 4 cloves of garlic, minced Zest and juice of one lemon 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Salt and pepper to taste Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional) Instructions Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve one cup of pasta water before draining. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the lemon zest and juice. Stir and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it in the lemon butter sauce until well coated. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve the desired sauce consistency. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving. These four easy and delectable pasta recipes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends. Buon appetito. Pesto Pasta Gelato – PEXELS Banh Mi – VIETNAMNOMAD Churros – FREEPIK Poutine – CHATELAINE Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
theSun LYFE ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 5 0 Banh Mis The Vietnamese sandwich, bánh mì, is a harmonious fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. A crispy baguette filled with various ingredients like grilled pork, cilantro, cucumber and a secret sauce, this dish showcases the vibrancy of Vietnam’s street food culture. 0 Churros Strolling along the lively streets of Spain wouldn’t be complete without indulging in churros. These deep-fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served hot and dusted with sugar. Dip them into thick, velvety chocolate sauce for an irresistible sweet experience. 0 Poutine Canada’s poutine is the ultimate comfort food. Crispy french fries smothered in savoury gravy and topped with cheese curds, it’s a hearty dish that’ll warm your soul on a chilly day. Poutine is a testament to Canada’s unique culinary creativity. 0 Takoyaki In the bustling streets of Japan, you’ll find takoyaki vendors whipping up these delectable octopus-filled dumplings. Cooked in a special griddle pan, they are crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Drizzled with takoyaki sauce and sprinkled with bonito flakes, seaweed and mayo, they’re an umami explosion. 0 Burek The Balkans offer a delightful pastry known as burek. This flaky, golden pie comes filled with various ingredients like minced meat, cheese or spinach. Perfectly portable, burek is a street food sensation across the region, from Sarajevo to Belgrade. 0 Arepa Venezuela’s beloved arepa is a glutenfree cornmeal pocket filled with an array of delicious ingredients, from shredded beef to cheese and avocado. These hearty snacks are a symbol of Ve n e z u e l a n culture and a true delight for any street food enthusiast. 0 Samosa A staple in Indian street food culture, the samosa is a triangular pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes Global street eats Pad Thai – FREEPIK IN a world bursting with culinary diversity, few experiences capture the essence of a destination quite like indulging in its street food. These humble yet flavourful dishes offer a glimpse into a culture’s history, traditions and everyday life. Whether you’re a globe-trotting foodie or an adventurous eater, here are ten iconic street foods from around the world that you simply must try. 0 Pad Thai Bangkok’s bustling streets are adorned with stalls offering this Thai treasure. Pad Thai, a stir-fried noodle dish, combines sweet, sour and spicy flavours with the choice of shrimp, chicken or tofu. The magic happens with tamarind sauce, peanuts, lime and cilantro, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. 0 Tacos Mexico’s gift to street food lovers worldwide, tacos come in endless variations. From the classic carne asada (grilled beef ) to the adventurous lengua (beef tongue) or al pastor (marinated pork), these portable delights are wrapped in warm tortillas and topped with onions, cilantro and salsa. A quick, flavourful bite of history. 0 Gelato While ice cream is celebrated around the globe, Italy’s gelato elevates the frozen treat to an art form. Wander the cobbled streets of Rome, Florence or Venice, and you’ll encounter gelato shops offering a rainbow of flavours, from classic stracciatella to adventurous pistachio and tiramisu. Each scoop is a burst of creamy delight. █ BYTHASHINE SELVAKUMARAN Tacos – PEXELS Takoyaki – FOODPANDA Burek – PINTEREST Arepa – PEXELS Samosa – FREEPIK minced meat. It’s often served with tangy tamarind chutney or mint sauce. The crispy shell contrasts perfectly with the flavourful filling, making it a favourite across India. Each of these iconic street foods tells a unique story of the culture, history and flavours of its origin. Trying them is not just about satisfying your taste buds but also about embarking on a culinary journey around the world, one delicious bite at a time. So, the next time you find yourself in a foreign land, follow your nose and join the locals in savouring these iconic street foods. Your taste buds will thank you for it and you’ll carry the memories of these unforgettable culinary experiences with you forever.
A COUPLE of weeks ago, we reviewed the top-of-the-line Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge. It proved to be a brilliant all-rounder and we even thought it was excellent to either drive or be driven in. Families would love the space, comfort, and safety features that the X90 has to offer, but at RM432,888, it is undoubtedly expensive. After returning the XC90, Volvo Malaysia handed us the keys to the XC60 Recharge T8 Ultimate (the full name of the hybrid variant), and basically told us to go have fun with it and come back in a week. So, we did. Having just stepped out of the flagship XC90, the XC60 feels like an immediate downgrade. But considering that it is priced at RM355,888, which is RM77,000 cheaper, that is not surprising. The XC60 comes with a sportier R-Design exterior package that includes an x-wing profile for the front bumper, square mesh grille and a redesigned rear bumper. The grille is also painted in gloss black to match its sportier appearance. To the untrained eye though, the design of the XC60 looks sedate. It is not particularly bold. It is one of those designs that you accept as being neither over the top nor particularly good looking. Inside, the design and layout of the dashboard is the same as what you see in the XC90. It even has the same “Orrefors” crystal gear knob that is unique to Volvo cars. As a matter of fact, all Volvos come with the same dashboard design which may be a little disappointing for those who pay more for the flagship variant and want some exclusivity. Well, the only exclusivity they can expect to get is the 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system that is offered in the XC90. The XC60 though gets a 15-speaker system, which still sounds fantastic. The seats of the XC60 though are a bit of a letdown – at first glance at least. You would be forgiven for expecting full leather seats in a car that costs over a quarter million ringgit. But instead of full leather seats, you get part leather and part fabric seats which Volvo fancifully calls the “Charcoal Open Grid Textile” upholstery. This is disappointing at first glance, and the first thing that came to my mind was that it would be incredibly difficult to clean if my toddler accidentally spilt his cocoa on the fabric part of the seat. And since Volvos are known as family movers, the chances of that happening are on the high side. ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 ► Contributing Editor: KESHY DHILLON / [emailprotected] ► Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 / +6012-580 3470 ► To advertise email: [emailprotected] Class of its own Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge Ultimate offers supercar power and electric-like efficiency! █ KESHY DHILLON SPECIFICATIONS Engine: 2.0L, turbocharged, 4-cylinder Power: 462PS (Combined) Torque: 709Nm (Combined) Transmission: 8-speed automatic Consumption: 1.6L/100km Build quality, audio system, power. Interior trim tends to glare. TOP: The XC60 is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged engine and an electric motor and has a combined system output of 462PS and 709Nm of torque. RIGHT: Stylish front headlights. LEFT: The gloss black grille is part of the XC60’s R-Design package.
But after spending about an hour driving around, the better part of the seat won me over – the comfort part. Volvo makes some of the best seats in the industry, and the XC60 is no exception – fabric or not. Overall interior quality is top notch. There are soft touch plastics everywhere and because most of the controls, such as air-conditioning controls, are accessed via the nine-inch portrait style touchscreen system, there is very little that can come loose or start to rattle over time. However, because most of the controls are located under multiple layers of software programs, simple things like adjusting the temperature or making phone calls through Apple CarPlay can be a multistep process. The XC60 has a trick around that though, one that all Volvos have – the Google Assistant. Considered as one of the best voice command systems in the industry, Volvo’s Google Assistant can pretty much do it all for you. And its ability to recognize the Malaysian accent also makes it impressively accurate. This is especially important for navigating to areas that have a Malay name such as Kampung Baru or Jalan Semarak where the system has to understand precisely what you want. Parents who have two young kids will also appreciate the fact that the XC60 comes with two integrated booster seats (the XC90 has one). The booster seat works by folding the bottom part of the seat upwards to give the child more shoulder room, so the belt fit properly. This is needed when a child outgrows the regular forward-facing car seat. You usually would have to purchase this separately but not with a Volvo. The only point about the interior that is worth complaining about is the glare from the chrome trimming scattered around the dash as part of Volvo’s “Metal Mesh Decor” interior package. The trim looks great, but it tends to glare when the sun is at the right angle, and this can be rather distracting when driving in the afternoons. It is not a deal breaker, but something to watch out for and for Volvo to take note of for future cars. Driving the XC60 is quite an occasion as well. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces an impressive 317PS and 400Nm of torque from just 3,000rpm. But the powerplant is further supplemented by an electric motor placed at the rear axle similar to the XC90. By itself, the motor produces a further 145PS and 309Nm of torque. When combined, the XC60 produces a gargantuan 462PS and 709Nm of torque; power figures that are not too far off that of a supercar. The XC60 also has a decent 0-100kph acceleration of 4.8 seconds, but it has an electronically governed top speed of 180kph. In fact, since 2020, all Volvos have a limited top speed of 180kph. It is Volvo’s way of promoting safety. Power figures aside, the XC60 excels at efficiency. Volvo claims the XC60 has a combined fuel consumption figure of 1.6-litres per 100km, which it attains via a hybrid powerplant. With an 18.8kWh battery (which is up from the 11.6kWh battery in earlier XC60’s), the current XC60 has an all-electric range of 81km, which technically means you could go about your daily business on electric power alone. And if you need to go further, the engine can take you anywhere you need to go. This is why we believe the plug-in hybrids make better sense than electric cars, but that’s a different topic altogether. The Volvo XC60 Recharge T8 Ultimate can basically do it all, and it is easy to fall in love with it. Even though it loses out on the air suspension of the XC90 which also means ride quality takes a hit, it is cheaper to maintain over the long run than the XC90. We liked the XC60 and even came away wondering if it is a better buy than the MercedesBenz GLC300 which is currently priced at RM429,888 and only has 255hp and 400Nm of torque. Or perhaps even better than the BMW X3 xDrive 30e M Sport, which is priced at RM321,140. Of course, the best way to answer that would be via a wheel-to-wheel comparison, but from a price and features perspective alone, the XC60 seems to be in a class of its own. 7 SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 The XC60 rolls on 19” diamond cut alloy wheels. Ample storage space for the family but the tonneau cover can be flimsy. The XC60 has a claimed all-electric range of about 80km . Steering wheel has minimal buttons that lets you focus on driving. The digital meter panel is minimalistic and doesn’t overwhelm with too much information. The 9-inch portrait style infotainment system has an advanced Google Assistant voice command system. Crystal gear knob and diamond cut start switch. Fifteen-speaker sound system which allows excellent acoustic transparency. The XC60 gets part leather, part fabric upholstery called Open Grid Textile. The XC60 Recharge boost a Bowers-Wilkins sound system. The integrated booster seats means you don’t have to buy one for your toddler.
LAMBORGHINI MALAYSIA has brought the world of thunder and lightning into the Malaysian market with the official debut of its first HPEV (HighPerformance Electrified Vehicle) hybrid super sports car, the Revuelto. Mitja Borkert, Lamborghini’s head of design, openly admits that the design of the Panigale superbike, produced by Lamborghini’s affiliated company Ducati, played a role in inspiring the design of the Revuelto. The Revuelto boasts a remarkable array of features, including a wide selection of 70 different colour options. It showcases distinctive Y-shaped daytime running lights seamlessly integrated into the hood, while sizeable air intakes are positioned strategically behind the doors. Notably, the design incorporates substantial air channels on each side, which are aptly termed “aero wings” by Borkert. The engineering refinements extend to the air intake ducts leading to the cylinders, which have been re-engineered to amplify air supply and ensure optimal airflow within the combustion chamber. In terms of its wheels, the car offers versatility with various specifications. The front wheels come in a standard size of 20 x 9.5j, with an optional upgrade to 21 x 9.5j. The rear wheels are available in a standard size of 21 x 12j, with an alternative option of 22 x 12.5j. The braking system relies on the latest iteration of CCB Plus (Carbon Ceramic Brakes Plus), delivering exceptional stopping power. The rear engine cover offers a view of the V12 engine, adding an enticing visual element. The car also features centre-exit exhaust tailpipes, contributing to its distinctive appearance and sound. The Revuelto takes the lead as the inaugural super sports car to feature a completely carbon fiber front structure, marking a substantial advancement over the Aventador in terms of torsional rigidity, lightweight attributes, and driving performance. The Revuelto incorporates three electric motors alongside its 6.5L V-12 mid-mounted engine. This setup includes two electric motors positioned on the front axle, enabling torque distribution for both power delivery and regenerative braking. Its power is derived from a V-12 HPEV powertrain, delivering a remarkable combined maximum power of 1001hp, accompanied by a substantial torque output of 725Nm. Fueling this performance is a 3.8kWh battery pack, which not only powers the vehicle but also facilitates electric torque vectoring. It has a top speed of 350kph and an acceleration that propels it from 0 to 100kph in just 2.5 seconds. The Revuelto offers versatile recharging options, accommodating both regular domestic alternating current and higher-powered charging columns, with capabilities of up to 7kW in power. The design of the new steering wheel draws inspiration from the pilot-like sensation one can experience while steering a Squadra Corse race car. Although the price is yet to be finalised by Lamborghini, the first two years of production are already fully booked. The price starts from RM2.5 million without taxes. 8 SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 World of thunder and lightning Lamborghini Revuelto officially launched In Malaysia █ TIMOTHY PRAKASH Mercedes-Benz unveils Concept CLA-Class THE Concept CLA-Class electric car, which Mercedes-Benz revealed in Munich, provides a preview of what the next complete redesign of the CLA would look like. The usage of existing elements here suggests that many of the components shown in this idea will probably be included in the followinggeneration CLA. The Concept CLA-Class, built on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), features a sleek and aerodynamic design. Inside, it incorporates sustainable interior materials, reflecting the growing trend towards ecofriendly automotive options. The Concept CLA maintains the distinctive and iconic “four-door coupe” design, a hallmark of the CLA nameplate since its introduction in 2014. However, designers have refined its appearance by elongating the hood and shortening the rear deck, achieving sportier proportions. The concept is adorned in a striking Pomegranate Red paint color, further enhancing its visual appeal. The car embodies Mercedes’ signature Sensual Purity design language, evident in its flowing body contours, as well as its curved rear end. The interior draws inspiration from the Vision EQXX, showcasing a blend of sustainable materials and advanced technology. The most prominent feature in the interior is the expansive Superscreen infotainment system that spans the dashboard, consisting of three separate displays: an instrument cluster, a central touchscreen, and another touchscreen positioned in front of the passenger seat. The turbine-like HVAC vents, often a signature Mercedes design element, serve as dials for the dual-zone climate control, with airflow coming from behind the floating Superscreen. As a concept vehicle, the specifications of the Concept CLA-Class are more conceptual and indicative of what can be expected from the series-production model, which is set to be available by the end of 2024. While these specifications are not finalised, they offer promising insights into the direction of the vehicle. While specific details regarding these MMAbased vehicles have yet to be disclosed, it’s reasonable to anticipate that Mercedes-Benz will introduce the CLA shooting brake, GLA, and GLB variants shortly after the CLA. Regarding pricing, as we all know, EVs are more expensive to produce than their internal combustion engine counterparts. Achieving cost parity between EVs and traditional gasoline or diesel vehicles may take some time. Therefore, pricing for these MMA-based products will likely be determined by various factors, including production costs and market demand. VW introduces the ID GTI Concept THE Volkswagen Golf GTI has a storied history that spans nearly half a century, and it holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. Now, after almost 48 years since the debut of the first Golf GTI model in Germany, Volkswagen is ushering in a new era with the introduction of the first all-electric performance hatchback from the brand. Volkswagen has confirmed that the new ID GTI Concept is built upon the MEB platform, featuring a front-wheel drive layout, and it is slated for eventual production. However, Volkswagen has not announced the exact timeline or the manufacturing location for the production version of the ID GTI Concept. The ID GTI Concept proudly carries the distinctive visual cues that are synonymous with the GTI brand. It features the signature red nose line and GTI badging, instantly recognisable to enthusiasts. To pay homage to the original GTI, the concept incorporates some visual tricks with blackened elements at the rear. These elements evoke the look of the original GTI’s black window surround and bumper, creating a nostalgic and evocative connection to the heritage of the GTI brand. The ID GTI Concept introduces a new augmented reality head-up display (AR HUD) that offers a range of innovative features. This AR HUD has the capability to project information for both the driver and the passenger, enhancing the overall driving experience. The ordinary ID.2 is slated to be on sale in Europe in 2026, while the GTI version is anticipated to arrive the following year. THE Malaysian pricing for the new Tesla Model 3 Facelift, codenamed Project Highland, has been announced. It is available in two variants: the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive and the Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive. The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is priced at RM189,000. It boasts a WLTP range of 513km, with a top speed of 201kph and the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 6.1 seconds. The Long Range Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive variant is priced at RM218,000. It offers a WLTP range of 629km, a top speed of 201kph, and can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in just 4.4 seconds. The car comes in a stylish Pearl White MultiCoat base colour. However, for those who desire a bit more personalisation, there are several additional colour options available, albeit at an extra cost. These include Solid Black and Deep Blue Metallic for RM5,000, Stealth Grey for RM7,500, and the vibrant Ultra Red for RM11,000. These colour choices allow customers to tailor their vehicle to their individual preferences. Each alternative hue comes with its own price tag. The standard interior colour is black, with an optional black and white theme available for RM5,000. Available options include the Enhanced Autopilot, priced at RM16,000, and the Full Self-Driving Capability, available for RM32,000. According to the website, estimated deliveries are slated for late 2023, with a non-refundable order fee of RM1,000. In terms of warranties, the basic vehicle is covered for a duration of 4 years or up to 80,000km. For the critical components, including the battery and drive unit, there is an extensive 8-year warranty or coverage up to 160,000km, providing peace of mind and assurance for the long-term performance of these components. Tesla Model 3 facelift price announced
KLCI 1,460.07 STI 3,226.59 3.71 HANG SENG 18,202.07 SCI 3,122.35 NIKKEI 32,991.08 249.94 TSEC 16,619.14 KOSPI 2,548.26 S&P/ASX200 7,171.00 FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 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 September 7, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) TOPGLOV 213,402,200 84.0 +5.5 CLASSITA 204,829,600 8.0 -0.5 EKOVEST 73,595,600 50.5 -4.0 AIMFLEX 68,675,900 23.0 +1.5 MRCB 53,239,500 44.0 -3.0 EXCHANGERATES SEPTEMBER 7, 2023 Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.7425 4.6095 4.5940 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.0420 2.9220 2.9030 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.4760 3.3770 3.3730 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.4740 3.3820 3.3670 1 EURO 5.0960 4.9330 4.9060 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2.7950 2.6930 2.6810 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.4760 3.3770 3.3730 1 STERLING POUND 5.9380 5.7540 5.7580 1 SWISS FRANC 5.3070 5.1880 5.1780 100 UAE DIRHAM 130.7100 123.9800 123.6500 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 4.4050 4.1190 3.9150 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 64.8000 62.4000 N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 61.1600 58.1400 57.8800 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.8000 5.4400 5.2500 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0321 0.0291 0.0241 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.2150 3.1140 3.1050 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR 15.9000 N/A N/A 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 1.5700 1.4700 1.2700 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.4500 7.9600 7.7600 100 QATAR RIYAL 131.6400 124.9700 124.6400 100 SAUDI RIYAL 127.9500 121.4600 121.1200 100 THAI BAHT 13.9300 12.3600 11.9800 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama KL MARKET SUMMARY September 7, 2023 INDICES CHANGE FBMEMAS 10,774.79 -19.89 FBMKLCI 1,460.07 -0.55 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 558.18 -1.27 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 173.12 -0.34 CONSTRUCTION 177.22 -3.62 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,472.20 -20.33 ENERGY 864.49 -0.54 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 581.55 -1.53 HEALTH CARE 1,702.55 +24.73 TRANSPORTATION 924.81 -12.96 PROPERTY 862.45 -5.63 PLANTATION 6,898.95 +39.99 FBMSHA 10,950.04 -16.56 FBMACE 5,188.57 -41.35 TECHNOLOGY 63.37 -0.29 TURNOVER VALUE 3.208 BIL RM2.024 BIL 5 TOP GAINERS September 7, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM BKAWAN 17,200 20.20 +0.26 NESTLE 32,300 130.00 +0.20 PPB 295,900 15.86 +0.18 PETDAG 970,900 22.80 +0.10 BYD-C19 40,000 0.22 +0.095 5 TOP LOSERS September 7, 2023 STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) +/– RM HEXTECH 4,600 24.36 -0.64 HLFG 121,400 18.00 -0.26 AIRPORT 4,783,900 7.40 -0.20 PANAMY 18,100 19.94 -0.18 HARISON 8,500 8.52 -0.14 0.55 247.91 35.72 119.02 15.08 86.10 M’sian aerospace, aviation industry set to soar higher SHAH ALAM: The Malaysian aerospace and aviation industry is expected to reach greater altitude, driven by higher total trade, increased exports and government efforts through the New Industry Master Plan (NIMP 2030), said Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong. He pointed out that last year, the industry recorded total trade of RM24.04 billion, with exports increasing to RM6.32 billion, compared with RM5.79 billion since the reopening of the economy post-pandemic in 2021. “Exports of Malaysia’s aerospace products are primarily aerospace parts and components for global OEM (original equipment manufacturers) and Tier-1 companies. In 2022, exports were mainly to France, the United States, the United Kingdom, China and Singapore. It is worth mentioning France, as our exports over there have increased by 99.1%, reaching RM1.78 billion,” Liew said during the opening ceremony of Selangor Aviation Show 2023 (SAS 2023) yesterday. Touching on the recently launched NIMP 2030, he said the plan has identified aerospace as one of the key priority sectors for the country and reiterated that the local aerospace industry is on course to achieve expected annual revenue of RM55.2 billion by 2030. “We are on track in our projection of annual revenue of RM55.2 billion and the creation of 32,000 high-income jobs by 2030. From left: Invest Selangor Bhd CEO Datuk Hasan Azhari Idris, Liew, Selangor Menteri Besar Selangor Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari and Ng during SAS 2023’s opening ceremony. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN o On course to achieve expected annual revenue of RM55.2 billion by 2030, says deputy minister █ BYGLORIA HARRY BEATTY [emailprotected] Bank Negara maintains benchmark rate at 3% PETALING JAYA: The Monetary Policy Committee of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) yesterday decided to maintain the Overnight Policy Rate at 3%. In a statement, the central bank said the global economy continues to expand, driven by resilient domestic demand supported by strong labour market conditions. “Global growth, however, remains weighed down by persistently elevated core inflation and higher interest rates. Global trade is also affected by rotation of spending from goods to services, and the ongoing electrical and electronics downcycle. The slower-thanexpected growth in China also weighed on the global economy,” it added. Globally, BNM said, headline inflation continued to moderate. “While core inflation in advanced economies is slowing down, it remains above historical averages. For most central banks, the monetary policy stance is likely to remain tight. The growth outlook remains subject to downside risks, mainly from a slower momentum in major economies, higherthan-anticipated inflation outturns, an escalation of geopolitical tensions, and a sharp tightening in financial market conditions.” In the second quarter of the year, BNM said, growth of the Malaysian economy was affected by slower external demand and a decline in commodity production. Moving forward, the central bank said growth will continue to be driven by resilient domestic expenditure amid the challenging external environment. It said continued employment and wage growth, particularly in the domestic-oriented sectors, remain supportive of household spending. Tourist arrivals and spending are expected to improve further. Investment activity will be supported by continued progress of infrastructure projects and implementation of catalytic initiatives under recently announced national master plans. BNM international reserves at US$112.5b on Aug 30 PETALING JAYA: Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) international reserves rose to US$112.5 billion (RM526.33 billion) as at Aug 30, up from US$112.2 billion on Aug 15. “The reserves position is sufficient to finance 5.2 months of imports of goods and services, and is 1.0 time of the total shortterm external debt,” the central bank said in a statement. The main components of the international reserves were foreign currency reserves (US$100.3 billion), International Monetary Fund reserves position (US$1.4 billion), Special Drawing Rights (US$5.7 billion), gold (US$2.4 billion) and other reserve assets (US$2.7 billion), bringing the total to US$112.5 billion. “With the ratification of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership last year, the government is committed to support the trade and investment effort from the participating countries to further develop the aerospace industry in Malaysia, strengthening the aerospace global supply chain as a whole.” Liew said it is a shared vision between the federal government and Selangor, which houses 67% of the aerospace activities. He added that Selangor is the preferred state for the global aerospace supply chain due to the ease of doing business, infrastructure and skilled workers. “With the First Selangor Plan (RS-1) in place, Selangor is poised to further strengthen the aerospace supply chain, in particular for the manufacturing and (maintenance, repair and operations) MRO sector, increasing our economic resilience as a whole,” he said. Meanwhile, Selangor state executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han said SAS 2023 aims to be the most exciting edition of the series to date. “SAS 2023 expects to have over 20,000 visitors registered, with close to 50 static aircraft display, 33 forums and talks with 65 speakers. We are also anticipating total potential transactions worth up to RM700 million and more to be sealed this week,” he added. Highlights at the show include product, services and technology exhibitions, static aircraft displays, drone displays, networking sessions, talks on hot topics in the industry as well as SAS 2023 Career Fair, which will feature 25 top companies in the aviation industry to provide career opportunities for young and dynamic talent to shape the future of aerospace and aviation in the state. The event, which ends tomorrow, will also showcase memorandum of understanding (MoU) exchanges, which include signings between Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) with six players within the industry, namely SIMAero, Sir Ventures, Dviation Group, Bibus Metals, Aerospace Malaysia Innovation Centre and Subang MRO. The scope of the MoUs is focused on the development of the Selangor Aero Park for the state aerospace industry and the region. Participation 27.1 43.3 29.6 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 548.6 872.1 604.2 2024.9 Sold RM m 549.3 883.2 592.4 2024.9 Net RM m -0.7 -11.1 11.8 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) 7/9/2023
10 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 SUNBIZ MAG, MAHB roll out electric ground power unit PETALING JAYA: Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) and Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) have taken a monumental step forward by introducing the country’s pioneering Electric Ground Support Equipment (eGSE) infrastructure, marking a significant milestone for the local aviation industry. The groundbreaking initiative, known as the Electric Ground Power Unit (e-GPU), promises to play a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions and noise pollution within the aviation sector. By replacing traditional nondiesel-powered GPUs with sustainable electric alternatives, MAG and MAHB are taking substantial strides towards Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari (centre) with senior executives from MAG and MAHB at the launch of e-GSE at Subang Airport. oPioneering infrastructure will play pivotal role in reducing aviation industry’s carbon emissions and noise pollution environmental responsibility and a greener future. MAG and MAHB have joined forces to develop the e-GSE infrastructure in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport), and will soon introduce it at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. In an era when the aviation industry sets its sights on a greener future, the collaboration between MAG and MAHB serves as a beacon of innovation and ecological awareness. The introduction of Malaysia’s first e-GSE infrastructure at Subang Airport signifies a significant leap towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions, ensuring a more sustainable aviation industry for future generations. MAG Group chief sustainability officer Philip See Yew Jin said, “Our innovative e-GSE infrastructure marks a historic milestone, signifying our pivotal role in reshaping Malaysia’s aviation with MAHB. MAG proudly leads sustainability efforts at Subang Airport, focusing on reducing both airborne and ground emissions.” This initiative, he added, will not just impact the environment but also provide an opportunity for better cost management and process improvement. MAHB managing director Datuk Seri Iskandar Mizal Mahmood said the initiative underscores the company’s commitment to advancing sustainability across its airport operations, aligning with its broader mission to adopt eco-friendly infrastructure and practices. “Subang Airport, the business aviation and the aerospace ecosystem as part of the total Subang Airport Regeneration Programme will encompass environmentallyfriendly initiatives and the e-GSE infrastructure announced today aligns perfectly with our sustainability visions for this project and our commitment in sustainable development as we contribute towards the nation’s aerospace ecosystem,” he added. MAG, alongside its regional airline counterparts, is spearheading sustainable practices by investing in an e-GPU and the accompanying infrastructure, developed in collaboration with MAHB. The investment sets the stage for the widespread adoption of e-GSE throughout the aviation industry. Selangor Aviation Show 2023, which opened yesterday and ends tomorrow, not only highlights the remarkable transformation of Subang Airport into Malaysia’s first green airport but also serves as a celebration of the aviation industry’s unwavering commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. SC revises guidelines to allow fractional share trading PETALING JAYA: The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has issued revised Guidelines on Market Conduct and Business Practices for Stockbroking Companies and Licensed Representatives. The revised guidelines, which took effect yesterday, outline the requirements that allow stockbroking companies to offer fractional share trading services for shares listed on Bursa Malaysia. A fractional share is a portion of a stock that is less than one standard board lot. Trading of fractional shares was one of the capital market initiatives announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in June to make share trading on Bursa Malaysia more accessible, affordable and inclusive for retail investors, particularly young investors. The revised guidelines reflect the SC’s continued commitment to enhance market vibrancy and promote greater retail participation in the Malaysian stock market. SC chairman Datuk Seri Dr Awang Adek Hussin said allowing retail investors to trade in fractional shares, individuals particularly the younger generation will now have increased affordability and flexibility to trade and invest in the more expensive blue-chip stocks, at a fraction of the standard board lot value. “In addition, the introduction of fractional share trading will allow retail investors to diversify their portfolio, whilst creating a more inclusive capital market for all Malaysians,” he said in a statement yesterday. To facilitate orderly development of the capital market, it is important for stockbroking companies to have the necessary controls and systems to safeguard the interest of the investors, he added. Among the key requirements outlined under the guidelines is the need for stockbroking companies to implement adequate systems, policies and procedures. This is to ensure fair treatment of customers’ orders, price transparency and proper supervision of the fractional share trading service. Sarawak’s Wondaleaf brand gets RM30m investment boost KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak-based medical device company Twin Catalyst Sdn Bhd has inked a licensing and technology transfer memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Savewo International Ltd, a Hong Kong-based company specialising in health protection gear. In a statement, Twin Catalyst said the MoU will involve an investment worth over RM30 million to license and manufacture Wondaleaf products and distribute them globally. Wondaleaf is the retail brand of Twin Catalyst. Via this cooperation with Savewo, Twin Catalyst foresees Wondaleaf products being present in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Europe, Sri Lanka and other markets by next year, pending a safety assessment by authorities, it said. “A lot of effort goes into bringing a new, high-risk, medical product to the market,” said Twin Catalyst CEO Dr John Tang at the MoU signing ceremony held recently in Beijing, China. The signing was witnessed by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development permanent secretary Azmi Bujang and Sarawak Research and Development Council general manager Peter Morin Nissom. Awang Tengah was quoted as saying that the investment would represent Sarawak’s growing medical innovation and manufacturing industry and demonstrate the efforts by the government to support small and medium enterprises in introducing local products to world markets. Furthermore, Nissom said, the deal indicated the potential of Sarawakian research and development (R&D). He said that last year, the state government announced the establishment of the Sarawak Medical Innovation and Technology Hub in Tanjung Kidurong, adding that research and development was a high priority for the state government and that the council was actively seeking to support local R&D initiatives. “Innovation and new technologies are important on the road to achieving highincome status by 2030. We will assess and support new and emerging technologies developed in Sarawak,” he said. Meanwhile, Savewo co-founder and general manager Harry Wong said the company is keen on investing further in technologies and companies from Sarawak. Twin Catalyst was first supported by Cradle Fund and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation to conduct clinical trials and intellectual property submissions. Subsequently, it was funded by the Sarawak Research and Development Council and the Malaysian Technology Development Corporation to conduct research and commercialisation activities worldwide. – Bernama SkyWorld to acquire land in Vietnam for RM67.9m KUALA LUMPUR: Skyworld Development Bhd’s wholly owned subsidiary, SkyWorld Development (Vietnam) Company Limited, has entered into a share sale and purchase agreement to acquire 0.53 hectare of land in Vietnam for RM67.9 million. In a statement yesterday, Skyworld Development said the proposed land buy in Ho Chi Minh City will be done through the acquisition of a Vietnamese company, Thuan Thanh Trading Production and Real Estate Trading Joint Stock Company (project company). “The acquisition will be entirely satisfied in cash, with a total cash consideration of RM67.9 million. “Upon completion, the project company will become an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWorld Development,” the property developer said in a statement yesterday. The acquisition, which is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2024, will be funded through a mix of internally generated funds, bank borrowings and/or issuance of Islamic Commercial Papers and/or Islamic Medium Term Notes. SkyWorld Development founder and non-independent executive chairman Datuk Seri Ng Thien Phing said, “The strategic location of the land in Ho Chi Minh City makes it an ideal canvas for our innovative and sustainable projects and we are looking forward to developing a 24-storey residential apartment over the said land.” Bernama Enhanced RHB Visa debit card/-i supports 32 foreign currencies PETALING JAYA: RHB Bank Bhd and RHB Islamic Bank Bhd are offering zero percent currency conversion fee for 16 additional foreign currencies with its enhanced RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i. The first 16 foreign currencies include US dollar, euro, yen, pound sterling, Singapore dollar, baht and Saudi riyal. With the enhancement, the RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i now supports 32 foreign currencies. “Since its introduction in 2019, we have had a good response to the RHB Multi Currency Visa Debit Card/-i,” said managing director and CEO Datuk Adissadikin Ali. The card allows holders to convert ringgit into the desired foreign currencies with zero conversion fee through the RHB Online Banking and Mobile Banking platforms. In addition, cardholders can transact up to the available balance in their current or savings account/-i without worrying about exceeding the purchase limit and enjoy attractive interest rates on selected foreign currency account balances.
11 * SUNBIZ theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 Fahmi: Investing in digital infrastructure a priority SEOUL: Investments in digital infrastructure have been a priority in Malaysia, as shown by the significant efforts made to enhance broadband connectivity and the ongoing rollout of 5G networks across the country, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil. The 5G network coverage in populated areas (CoPA) in Malaysia has reached 68.8% as of Aug 31, he said in his keynote address at the GSMA Mobile 360 Apac and Policy Leaders Forum 2023 yesterday. “The digital infrastructure backbone is crucial for supporting the growth of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, cloud computing, internet of things and blockchain,” the minister said. He noted that to fulfill the infrastructural needs of the nation, the National Digital Connectivity Plan, or better known as Jendela, was launched as a platform to ensure Malaysia is prepared for the upcoming transition to 5G technology and continues to have a smooth national digital growth. “The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission takes the leadership role in driving digital transformation through the building of digital infrastructure to provide a conducive environment for the digital economy. “Malaysia is happy to report that as of the second quarter of 2023, approximately 8.03 million premises have access to fibre broadband while 97% of all populated areas have access to 4G network,” he said. oMalaysia enhancing broadband connectivity which is crucial for supporting growth of emerging technologies, minister tells international forum KUALA LUMPUR: HSBC launched its Investment Account Opening service on the HSBC Malaysia mobile banking app, allowing HSBC Premier customers to open investment accounts with the bank from the convenience of their mobile phones. The service is embedded within the Wealth tab in the HSBC Malaysia mobile banking app. With the mobile Investment Account Opening service, HSBC Premier customers can easily open unit trusts, bonds, and sukuk accounts with the bank – all at one go. HSBC is also the first bank in Malaysia to offer customers the option to open bond/sukuk investment accounts via the HSBC mobile banking app. To further transact in bonds/sukuk (trading/buying/selling activities), HSBC Premier customers would still need the assistance of their relationship managers, either face-toface or via remote engagement service, which is an alternate channel for customers to interact with HSBC without the need to be physically present at the branches, and which is supported by Zoom and Live Sign. HSBC Malaysia Wealth and Personal Banking country head Linda Yip (pix) said that digitalisation is a key part of their wealth business, as they continue to put customer convenience at the forefront, and the launch of the digital Investment Account Opening Service is a testament to this. As their customers build their wealth portfolios both in Malaysia and across the globe, she added, they will capitalise on the strength of HSBC’s international network to play an integral part in their journey, by providing their customers access to their market leading products and services. “Our wealth solutions are broad with a comprehensive shelf of unit trusts, bonds or sukuk, structured investments, dual currency investments, foreign currencies and insurance. We use a hybrid model of relationship managers and wealth specialists, supported by digital wealth capabilities to serve our customers holistically,” she said. To accelerate the growth of its wealth business in Asia and drive its ambition to become the leading wealth bank in the region, HSBC announced plans in 2021 to invest over US$3.5 billion (RM16 billion) over a five-year period. HSBC Malaysia has an aspiration to double its Assets Under Management (AUM) by 2025 (from the 2020 AUM position) with a specific focus on areas such as unit trusts and structured investments while also accelerating its mobile wealth and digital capabilities. HSBC enables opening of investment account via mobile app According to Fahmi, the digital economy stands as one of Malaysia’s primary economic pillars, contributing 23.2% to the country’s gross domestic product in 2021. “This contribution is expected to reach 25.5% by the year 2025, or more than RM382 billion,” he said. Meanwhile, Fahmi also highlighted that the path to building inclusive digital nations is not just a matter of technology. “It is a matter of equity, fairness, and social progress,” he said. According to him, it involves crafting policies that promote digital literacy, expanding access to high-speed Internet, and fostering an environment where innovation flourishes. “It means prioritising the needs of the underserved and underprivileged and creating pathways for them to participate fully in the digital economy,” he said. He added that the very concept of inclusivity embodies the Malaysia Madani vision for an equitable society that calls for a fairer distribution of wealth and resources. – Bernama Proton year-to-date sales zoom past 100,000-unit milestone KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd’s (Proton) sales have crossed the 100,000-unit threshold with 13,955 units delivered in August, bringing total sales so far this year to 104,602 units. The year-to-date (YTD) sales represented an increase of 19.6%, or 17,121 units, over the volume recorded for the first eight months of 2022, the car maker said. “With total industry volume (TIV) for the month estimated to be at 74,200 units, Proton’s market share is projected to be at 18.8% for August, with a YTD market share figure of 20.8%. “The company’s volume growth, however, remains ahead of TIV, which is now estimated at 12.2% for 2023,” it said in a statement. Proton Edar Sdn Bhd CEO Roslan Abdullah said the company’s sales growth reflected how its focus on delivering better quality products, along with a premium experience delivered by the 154 3S/4S dealerships in its network, had a positive effect on customers. “Going forward, these efforts towards better products and services will continue and be boosted by the recent announcement of Proton Test Labs receiving ISO 17025 accreditation as well as the company’s impending entry into the electric vehicle space with smart Malaysia,” he said. Proton said the Proton Saga was the bestselling model in August, achieving its highest monthly figure of 2023 with 6,585 units, which placed it second overall for sales in Malaysia for a third consecutive month. “For the first eight months of 2023, a remarkable 45,836 units have been delivered, which is an increase of 34.2% over the same period in 2022,” it said. The company said its newest addition, Proton X90, led monthly and YTD sales for Dsegment sport utility vehicles with the addition of 719 units in August and a cumulative total of 2,944 units thus far, despite having only three full months of sales under its belt. – Bernama Bank Islam launches Be U Visa Debit Card-i KUALA LUMPUR: Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd has launched its new “Be U Visa Debit Card-i” to enhance customers’ payment experience with seamless application and activation designed to cater to their evolving needs. Group chief digital officer Noor Farilla Abdullah said the branchless debit card would allow mobile management of finances, eliminating complicated paperwork or bureaucracy, thereby reflecting the bank’s commitment to accessible and convenient banking. “Besides providing a fast, secure, and contactless transaction at any Visa merchant worldwide, Be U by Bank Islam Visa Debit Cardi also offers cardholders a convenient and advanced banking option to manage their finances. “Through the debit card, cardholders can conveniently keep track of their finances using the built-in expense tracker that can be viewed in the Be U by Bank Islam digital banking application (app),” she said at the launch of the debit card here yesterday. – Bernama airasia Superapp wins online travel agency award KUALA LUMPUR: airasia Superapp clinched the Asia’s Leading Online Travel Agency (OTA) title at the World Travel Awards (Asia) on its first nomination, reflecting its achievements in providing value and convenience to travellers, towards being the region’s leading onestop travel superapp. The World Travel Awards, often dubbed as the “Oscars of the travel industry” are renowned for recognising excellence in the global tourism and travel sector. airasia Superapp emerged victorious among a highly competitive field of nominees, including well-established names such as Agoda, Trip.com, MakeMyTrip and more. airasia Superapp COO Tan Mai Yin said being nominated and recognised as Asia’s Leading Online Travel Agency in the first year of its nomination is a truly significant achievement and this motivates them to push the envelope of innovation to provide all travellers with a new and redefined travel booking experience with them. On that note, she announced amazing deals for Airasia ride, flights (not inclusive of AirAsia flights) and hotels on the Superapp from Sept 7-30 where users can enjoy RM50 off with promo code (BESTINASIAMY) when they book any airlines (not inclusive of AirAsia flights) and any hotels to their desired destinations, with a minimum spend of RM350. Aside from the fly and stay deals, users can also enjoy an extra RM2 off on their next five rides with the same promo code by clicking on the “Ride” icon on the airasia Superapp. airasia Superapp chief business officer Dabraj Sing and Mai Yin at the 30th Annual World Travel Awards.
12 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 SUNBIZ UN chief says global finance system ‘fragmenting’ Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesundaily.my/ JAKARTA: The world risks a “great fracture” of its economic and financial systems, UN SecretaryGeneral António Guterres said yesterday at a summit with Southeast Asia’s Asean bloc, China, the US and others in Indonesia. In a wide-ranging speech that touched on geopolitical tension, multilateral development finance and climate change, Guterres called on world leaders to find peaceful and inclusive solutions to the challenges facing the world. “There is a real risk of fragmentation – of a great fracture in world economic and financial systems; with diverging strategies on technology and AI and conflicting security frameworks,” he said. He called for a mechanism to provide relief for debt-strapped developing economies, to include payment suspensions, longer lending terms and lower interest rates. He also voiced support for rechannelling an additional US$100 billion (RM4676 billion) of International Monetary Fund’s Special Drawing Rights through multilateral development banks to increase liquidity and support developing economies’ needs. Rich countries agreed in 2021 to re-channel the unused funds, an international reserve currency, to poor countries. At a Paris summit in June this year, world leaders backed a push for multilateral development banks like the World Bank to put more capital at risk to boost lending. World Bank president Ajay Banga outlined a “toolkit” at that summit, including offering a pause in debt repayments, giving countries flexibility to redirect funds for emergency response, providing new types of insurance to help development projects and helping governments build advance-emergency systems. Guterres also said he remained “deeply concerned” over the “worsening political, humanitarian, and human rights” situation in Myanmar. – Reuters /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE SCAN ME B R I E F SSEOUL WANTS FOREIGN FIRMS TO BOOST CURBS ON ILLEGAL SHORTING SEOUL: South Korea’s financial market watchdog yesterday urged foreign firms trading on the country’s stock market to strengthen internal controls to prevent illegal naked shortselling. The Financial Supervisory service (FSS) conveyed the message in a meeting with compliance officers from 23 foreign investment banks. Naked short-selling of stocks – in which an investor short sells shares without first borrowing them or determining they can be borrowed – is banned by the Capital Markets Act in South Korea. So far this year, the FSS has counted 24 cases of illegal short-selling, mostly by foreigners, compared with 28 for the whole of last year and 14 in 2021. – Reuters NESTLE BUYS MAJORITY STAKE IN BRAZILIAN CHOCOLATE MAKER ZURICH: Nestle is buying a majority stake in Brazilian premium chocolate maker Grupo CRM, the Swiss food group said yesterday, as it seeks to expand into luxury confectionary. Grupo CRM operates more than 1,000 chocolate boutiques in Brazil under the Kopenhagen and Brasil Cacau brands and has a growing online presence, Nestle said. The acquisition is part of a strategy by Nestle to expand its presence in the super-premium chocolate segment where it has a limited offering that includes Italian brand Baci. – Reuters AIRBUS DELIVERS 433 JETS YEAR TO DATE PARIS: Airbus delivered 52 planes in August to bring the total so far this year to 433 units, company said on Wednesday. It also sold 117 planes to bring the total so far this year to 1,257, or 1,218 after cancellations. Its total backlog of unfilled orders topped 8,000 units for the first time at the end of August following a surge in air travel demand since the pandemic. New business booked in the month included a previously announced order for 75 jets from Wizz Air. – Reuters China’s exports, imports shrink again BEIJING: China’s exports and imports sank again in August, data showed yesterday, adding to growing pressure on authorities to introduce fresh stimulus for the world’s number two economy even as the figures showed some sign of improvement. The threat of recession in Europe and high inflation in many major economies has contributed to a plunge in demand for Chinese goods, which has been compounded by tensions with the US and a move by parts of the West to reduce dependence on Beijing. On top of that, a muchanticipated strong recovery following the lifting of painful zero-Covid rules at the end of last year has run off the tracks, while the gargantuan property sector continues to teeter. All of which has given leaders a headache as they try to reinvigorate growth while at the same time trying to recalibrate the economy from one driven by state investment to one that is consumer-led and more sustainable. oThreat of recession in Europe and high inflation in many major economies contribute to a plunge in demand for Chinese goods in August Customs figures yesterday showed they have a long way to go to achieve the latter, with imports shrinking 7.3% on-year last month as consumers remained reluctant to purchase while prices fell in July for the first time in more than two years. Exports – which have historically served as a key growth engine for China – sank 8.8%. Still, the pace of contraction in both was slower than the previous month and was better than the 9% drop forecast by economists in a survey by Bloomberg News. Shipments to Western countries in August fell significantly on-year, with US-bound goods diving 17.4% and those to the European Union 10.5% lower. At the same time exports to Russia remained robust – surging Tencent claims new AI chat bot skills comparable to ChatGPT’s SHANGHAI: Chinese tech giant Tencent yesterday claimed its new chatbot had some capabilities on par with top US rival ChatGPT, as the global artificial intelligence race heats up. Tencent’s “Hunyuan Aide”, which was released to the public yesterday, follows the similar ERNIE Bot rolled out by Baidu last month. Beijing introduced fresh regulations last month for AI developers, aiming to allow them to stay in the race with the likes of ChatGPT maker OpenAI and Microsoft while tightly controlling information online. Tencent yesterday gave a live demonstration of Hunyuan Aide’s capabilities, with the bot introducing itself in response to questions typed by an employee on a laptop, and solving a simple arithmetic problem. Vice-president Jiang Jie said at the livestreamed summit that the bot outperformed US-based Open AI’s earlier model GPT-3.5 and was on par with GPT-4 in identifying trick questions such as “what is the safe way to speed”. It even exceeded the latter when answering questions from the Chinese university entrance exam, he said. “Compared to the open-source large language models common on the market presently, (our) method effectively reduces the hallucination rate by 30% to 50%,” Jiang said, referring to the false and nonsensical content frequently churned out by AI. Trained on more than two trillion tokens and equipped with more than 100 billion parameters – units of language and the variables connecting them – from up until July this year, Hunyuan Aide’s data set will be continuously updated, Jiang said. Hunyuan Aide has “powerful Chinese language writing ability, the ability to make logical inferences in complicated linguistic contexts, and reliable task execution ability”, Tencent, which owns the WeChat super-app, said in a statement yesterday. – AFP 63.2% – demonstrating the continued strength of economic ties between the neighbours despite Moscow’s war in Ukraine. The drop in trade was “in line with expectations”, given persistently weak external demand, economist Zhiwei Zhang of Pinpoint Asset Management said in a note. “The focus of the policymakers is on the domestic economic challenges, particularly the property market,” wrote Zhang. China’s property sector remains in turmoil, with major developers failing to complete housing projects, triggering protests and mortgage boycotts from homebuyers. Authorities have come under increasing pressure to introduce fresh support after months of debilitating data. Rather than adopt a broad but costly stimulus, Beijing has so far adopted more targeted measures such as easing restrictions on mortgages and cutting key interest rates. But that has left investors and observers frustrated and warning the economy could fall into a period of stagnation similar to that experienced in Japan since an economic bubble burst at the start of the 1990s. – AFP
theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 13 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF AMOTEX TRADING SDN. BHD. 200301010612 (613032-W) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 439(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the Special Resolution set out below was duly passed by the members of the company on 04th September, 2023. “That the company be wound up voluntarily and that LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) (NRIC No.: 661003-10- 6088) of No. 31-3, Jalan Tasik Selatan 3, Metro Centre, Bandar Tasik Selatan, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, be and is hereby appointed liquidator for the purposes of such winding up.” LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) (MAICSA 7000634) Secretary Kuala Lumpur 08th September, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF AMOTEX TRADING SDN. BHD. 200301010612 (613032-W) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovenamed company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 08th October, 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company; and if so required in writing from the said, are by their solicitors or personally to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts are proven. Kuala Lumpur 08th September, 2023 LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) Liquidator Liquidator No. 31-3, Jalan Tasik Selatan 3, Metro Centre, Bandar Tasik Selatan, 57000 Kuala Lumpur IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF KNIGHT CRAFT (M) SDN. BHD. [199301007648 (262385-D)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at a Members’ Meeting of Knight Craft (M) Sdn. Bhd. duly convened and held at Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on 1st September, 2023, the following Special Resolution was duly passed - (a) That the Company be placed in members’ voluntary winding up; (b) That Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be appointed as the Liquidator of the Company for winding-up the Company’s affairs and distributing its assets either in cash or in specie amongst the contributories; and (c) That unless caused by negligence of the Liquidator, the Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by her in the discharge of her duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. Mak Teck Meng Director Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 12th October, 2023 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the Liquidator of the said Company and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Chua Yoke Bee Liquidator Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT KUALA LUMPUR (COMMERCIAL DIVISION) COMPANIES (WINDINGUP) NO. WA-28NCC-438-05/2023 In the matter of Section 465 (1) (e) & Section 466 (1)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016 And In the matter of the Companies (Winding-Up) Rules, 1972 And In the matter of TAIYO RESORT (KL) SDN. BHD. (COMPANY NO.: 198701005699 (164370-X)) BETWEEN NORIYASU SAKAMOTO (PASSPORT NO.: TZ1103729) ... PETITIONER AND TAIYO RESORT (KL) SDN. BHD. (COMPANY NO.: 198701005699 (164370-X)) ... RESPONDENT NOTICE OF WINDING-UP ORDER In the Matter of TAIYO RESORT (KL) SDN. BHD. Winding-Up Order made on 22 August 2023. Name and Address of Provisional Liquidator:- The Official Receiver, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Jabatan Insolvensi Malaysia Tingkat 22-25, Menara TH Perdana, 1001 Jalan Sultan Ismail 50250 Kuala Lumpur Signed Illegible ……………………… Amir Faezal Norzela & Chong Solicitors for the Petitioner This Notice of Winding-up Order is filed by by Messrs. Amir Faezal Norzela & Chong at Unit 9-1, 9th Floor, Wisma Bandar, No. 18, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Solicitors for the Petitioner abovenamed. Tel : 03-2691 5104 Our ref : AFNC/L/33039/23/WU IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF RIGEL MACHINING (M) SDN. BHD. Company Registration No. 200401026027 (664535-V) (In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) At an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Members of Rigel Machining (M) Sdn. Bhd., duly convened and held on Monday, 4 September 2023, the following resolutions were duly passed: 1. That the Company be wound up voluntarily by way of Members’ Voluntary Winding Up pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016. 2. That in accordance with Section 445(1) of the Companies Act, 2016, Chen Kao Sung of 66-9-2, Lintang Delima 4, 11700 Gelugor, Pulau Pinang, be and is hereby appointed as the liquidator for the purposes of the winding up. Chen Kao Sung Director Dated this: 8 September 2023 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being voluntarily wound-up are required on or before the 8 October 2023 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts and claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the abovementioned Liquidator and if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their debts and claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts and claims are proved. Chen Kao Sung Liquidator Dated this: 8 September 2023 DALAM MAHKAMAH SESYEN DI AYER KEROH DALAM NEGERI MELAKA NO.GUAMAN SIVIL: MA-A52NCvC-45-05/2023 ANTARA JUPITER MARK TWO SDN. BHD. (No.Pendaftaran: 565610-M) ... PLAINTIF DAN SB HUAT TRADING (No.Pendaftaran: 002251688-D) .... DEFENDAN PERTAMA GENERASI FOKUS SDN BHD (No.Pendaftaran:1143269-W) .... DEFENDAN KEDUA IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI Berkenaan dengan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan yang bertarikh 31.5.2023 kepada:- SB HUAT TRADING (No.Pendaftaran: 002251688-D) S-8-9, Gamuda Biz Suites, Persiaran Angerrik Vanilla, Kota Kemuning, 40460 Shah Alam, Selangor. Ambil perhatian bahawa suatu Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan telah difailkan terhadap kamu di dalam Mahkamah Sesyen Melaka dalam Guaman Sivil No: MA-A52NCvC-45-05/2023 oleh JUPITER MARK TWO SDN. BHD (No.Pendaftaran: 565610-M). Plaintif yang dinamakan di atas telah mendapat suatu Perintah bahawa Mahkamah telah memerintahkan bahawa Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan dan segala suratcara-suratcara dan dokumen-dokumen yang perlu diserahkan dalam prosiding tersebut disampaikan ke atas kamu secara penyampaian ganti iaitu dengan penampalan sesalinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut dan sesalinan Perintah Penyampaian Ganti di alamat terakhir Defendan Pertama serta mengiklankan Iklan Penyampaian Ganti di dalam akhbar tempatan harian The Sun dan dengan menampalkan sesalinan Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan tersebut dan sesalinan Perintah Penyampaian Ganti di papan kenyataan Mahkamah Sesyen Melaka dan penyampaian tersebut dianggap sebagai sempurna dan mencukupi kepada kamu empat belas hari selepas penyempurnaan penyerahan ganti. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan tersebut, kamu bolehlah hadir sendiri atau melalui Peguam kamu di hadapan Mahkamah Sesyen Melaka pada 26 September 2023 jam 9.00 pagi. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, Perintah Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan boleh diberikan kepada Plaintif. Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan ini boleh diperiksa oleh kamu dengan memohon kepada Mahkamah ini. Bertarikh pada 6.9.2023 …………tt………… Peguamcara Plaintif IKLAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Karthig Shan, Peguamcara bagi pihak plaintif dan alamat penyampaian adalah di No. 103-3, Jalan Haruan 5/4, Oakland Commerce Square, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. [Tel: 06-6307441] [Fax: 06-6317441] [Ruj:KS/L/961/22] 322 Notices IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT ALOR SETAR IN THE STATE OF KEDAH DARUL AMAN, MALAYSIA COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) NO.: KA-28NCC-17-08/2023 In the matter of Section 465 (1)(e) and Section 466 (1)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016 And In the matter of the Companies (Winding-Up) Rules, 1972 And In the matter of JIMAT JIMAT FRESH & FROZEN MART SDN. BHD.(Company No.: 201901016595 (1325923-H)) BETWEEN BABA PRODUCTS (M) SDN. BHD. (Company No. : 199001015110 (206780-X)) …PETITIONER AND JIMAT JIMAT FRESH & FROZEN MART SDN. BHD. (Company No. : 201901016595 (1325923-H)) …RESPONDENT ADVERTIsem*nT OF PETITION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Petition for the Winding-Up of JIMAT JIMAT FRESH & FROZEN MART SDN. BHD. (“the Company”) by the High Court was, on 1 August 2023 presented to the said Court by BABA PRODUCTS (M) SDN. BHD. of Block C, Lot 46911, Taman Perindustrian Selayang, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor Darul Ehsan (“the Petitioner”). AND that the said Petition is directed to be heard before the High Court sitting at Alor Setar, at 9.00 o’clock in the morning on 1 November 2023. AND any creditor or contributory of the 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 Company requiring the same by the undersigned on payment of the regulated charge for the same. The Petitioner’s address is BABA PRODUCTS (M) SDN. BHD. of Block C, Lot 46911, Taman Perindustrian Selayang, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor Darul Ehsan. The Petitioner’s Solicitors is Messrs. Abraham Ooi & Partners of 8th Floor, Wisma Harwant, No. 106, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur. Signed Illegible ……………………………… Messrs. Abraham Ooi & Partners Solicitors for the Petitioner Note:- Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said Petition must serve on, or send by post to, the abovenamed Messrs. Abraham Ooi & Partners, notice in writing of his intention to do so. The Notice must state the name and address of the person, or, if a firm, the name and address of the firm, and must be signed by the person or firm, or his or their solicitors, if any. The notice must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time, to reach the abovenamed not later than 12.00 p.m. of 31 October 2023. This Advertisem*nt of Petition is issued by Messrs. Abraham Ooi & Partners, Advocates & Solicitors, solicitors for the Petitioner, whose address of service is at No. 106, 8th Floor, Wisma Harwant, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 50100 Kuala Lumpur. Tel No : 03-2691 0725 Fax No: 03-2697 0626 Ruj: AW/L/EU/JY/34102/23/IND/WUP DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI DI KUALA LUMPUR DALAM NEGERI WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN KUALA LUMPUR BAHAGIAN DAGANG GUAMAN NO. WA-22NCC-552-08/2023 ANTARA NEC CAPITAL SOLUTIONS MALAYSIA SDN BHD [No. Syarikat: 201301045944 (1075768-V)] …PLAINTIF DAN 1. ODYSSEY GLOBAL MARKETING SDN BHD [No. Syarikat: 200601027483 (747239-P)] 2. SOM KIT A/L EH SOON (No. K/P: 860502-29-5911) 3. VOON CHIEW HIAN (No. K/P: 771012-07-5970) ...DEFENDAN-DEFENDAN PENYAMPAIAN GANTI – BENTUK IKLAN Kepada: SOM KIT A/L EH SOON & VOON CHIEW HIAN 7-0-E, SD Apartment Persiaran Meranti Bandar Sri Damansara 52200 Kuala Lumpur AMBIL PERHATIAN bahawa suatu tindakan telah dimulakan terhadap kamu dalam Mahkamah Tinggi Kuala Lumpur dalam Guaman No. WA-22NCC-552-08/2023 oleh NEC CAPITAL SOLUTIONS MALAYSIA SDN BHD [No Syarikat: 201301045944 (1075768-V)] yang beralamat di Suite 18.01, Level 18, The Gardens South Tower, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur yang mana tuntutan Plaintif ialah untuk jumlah sebanyak RM3,337,335.00 yang merupakan bayaran hutang tertunggak dan faedah seterusnya pada kadar 5% setahun atas jumlah RM3,337,335.00 dari tarikh Writ Saman tersebut sehingga tarikh penyelesaian sepenuhnya dan juga kos dan fee guaman dan bahawa telah diperintahkan penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan kepada kamu dalam tindakan ini hendaklah dilaksanakan melalui iklan ini. Jika kamu berhasrat untuk membela tindakan ini, kamu mestilah hadir sama ada secara sendiri atau melalui peguambela kamu memasukkan Memorandum Kehadiran di Mahkamah Tinggi Kuala Lumpur dalam masa (14) hari selepas penyampaian Writ Saman dan Pernyataan Tuntutan bersama Writ ini. Jika kamu ingkar hadir sedemikian, penghakiman boleh dibuat terhadap kamu. Bertarikh pada 8 September 2023 t.t ……………………… PEGUAMCARA PLAINTIF TETUAN LIM, PHUA & NORAINI Penyampaian Ganti – Bentuk Iklan ini difailkan oleh Tetuan Lim, Phua & Noraini Peguamcara bagi pihak Plaintif yang beralamat di No 49-C, Jalan Alam Jaya 17, Taman Alam Jaya, 43200 Cheras Selangor. 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CHEM FUEL CELL (M) SDN. BHD. Registration No. 201501020166 (1145502-P) (Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at Registered Office at Unit No. 1-2, Residensi Tun Razak, No. 83, Jalan Pekeliling Lama, 50400 Kuala Lumpur on 1st September 2023, the following special resolutions were duly passed :- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1) (b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Chow Yong Zhen @ Kelly of D205, Paradesa Tropika, Persiaran Meranti, PJU 9, Bandar Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur be appointed Liquidator for the purpose of such winding-up. 2. THAT the liquidator be and is hereby authorised to divide all or such parts of the surplus assets of the Company as he think fit in specie amongst the members of the Company pursuant to Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016. CHOW YONG ZHEN @ KELLY Director DATED THIS : 8th September 2023 KUALA LUMPUR. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CHEM FUEL CELL (M) SDN. BHD. Registration No. 201501020166 (1145502-P) (Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of CHEM FUEL CELL (M) SDN. BHD. Registration No. 201501020166 (1145502- P) which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before the 7th October 2023 to send their names and addresses and the particulars of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at D205, Paradesa Tropika, Persiaran Meranti, PJU 9, Bandar Sri Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur and if so required by notice in writing from the 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. CHOW YONG ZHEN @ KELLY Liquidator DATED THIS : 8th September 2023 KUALA LUMPUR IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF JOJEVI SDN BHD (200801014266) (815555-P) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) At a General Meeting of the abovenamed Company held on 04th September, 2023 the following resolutions were passed as special resolutions:- i) That the company will be liquidated by way of members’ voluntary winding up. ii) That Mr. Yapp Hock Hoe and Madam Phoon Lee Meng of No. 25-4-05, Level 4, Plaza Prima, Batu 4 ½, Jalan Kelang Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur be appointed joint liquidators to act for the purpose of winding-up of the company’s affairs and distributing its assets. iii) That the liquidators be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by them in the execution and discharge of their duties as liquidators and in relation thereto. KWAN SWEE KEONG Director Date: 08th September 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF JOJEVI SDN BHD (200801014266) (815555-P) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) Notice is hereby given that the creditors of the abovenamed Company, which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before 13 October 2023 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and their names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned liquidator at No. 25-4-05, Level 4, Plaza Prima, Batu 4 ½, Jalan Kelang Lama, 58200 Kuala Lumpur, and, if so required by notice in writing from the said liquidator, are by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove the said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice, or in default thereof, they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts or claims are proved. YAPP HOCK HOE Liquidator Date: 08th September 2023 LOST CERTIFICATES The following Share Certificates have been reported lost or destroyed Certificate No Name No Of Share LAM SOON (M) BERHAD 17914 ZULKEFLI BIN MOHAMAD 3 x 1000 26857 – 858 19115 – 116 BEH HEAP PHENG @ BEH AH BAA 2 x 1000 20615 - 616 LEE HAU SING 2 x 1000 446720 – 722 SOO CHENG LENG 3 x 1000 7713 SITI ZALEHA BT DUATAR 3 x 1000 30682 – 683 16943 CHUAH LEE LIAN @ LILY 3 x 1000 23631 – 632 10881 CHAN FUNG FAT @ TAN HONG HUAT 3 x 1000 36644 – 645 SCIENTEX BERHAD 65138 CHEAH KOOI LEE 3000 65166 12000 65084 2000 65085 1000 CIMB GROUP HOLDINGS BERHAD 00002440 HASMAHANIZAN BINTI YUSOFF NA 00054897 NA UNITED ENGINEERS (M) BERHAD 10139760 1 x 1000 10199447 1 x 1000 10535535 KLANG EQUITY NOMINEES SDN BHD 1 x 1000 10938511 1 x 1000 10357970 – 992 23 x 1000 10358075 – 124 50 x 1000 10474402 - 478 77 x 1000 MALAYSIA INT SHIPPING CORP BHD - FOREIGN 2000147674 – 691 KLANG EQUITY NOMINEES SDN BHD 18 x 1000 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that if within fourteen (14) days from the date hereof, no claim or representation in respect of such certificates is made to the Directors, they will then proceed to issue replacement certificates and the original certificates will be deemed cancelled and void. REGISTRARS BOARDROOM SHARE REGISTRARS SDN BHD (Registration No 199601006647 )(378993-D) Date: 08.09.2023 322 Notices IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SUN SANG HENG KEE FOUNDRY SDN. BHD. [197701001625 (32648-U)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at a Members’ Meeting of Sun Sang Heng Kee Foundry Sdn. Bhd. duly convened and held at Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on 1st September, 2023, the following Special Resolution was duly passed - (a) That the Company be placed in members’ voluntary winding up; (b) That Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be appointed as the Liquidator of the Company for winding-up the Company’s affairs and distributing its assets either in cash or in specie amongst the contributories; and (c) That unless caused by negligence of the Liquidator, the Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by her in the discharge of her duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. Mak Teck Meng Director Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 12th October, 2023 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to Ms. Chua Yoke Bee of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the Liquidator of the said Company and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Chua Yoke Bee Liquidator Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF CHINA GLAZE MALAYSIA SDN. BHD. Registration No. 201801003620 (1265634-U) (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE OF RESOLUTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at a Members’ Meeting of China Glaze Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. duly convened and held at Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor on 1st September, 2023, the following Special Resolution was duly passed - (a) That the Company be placed in members’ voluntary winding up; (b) That Mr. Chong f*ck Sin of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS 20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor be appointed as the Liquidator of the Company for winding-up the Company’s affairs and distributing its assets either in cash or in specie amongst the contributories; and (c) That unless caused by negligence of the Liquidator, the Liquidator be indemnified by the Company against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred in or sustained by him in the discharge of his duties as Liquidator and in relation thereto. Tsai, Sung-Yu Director Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of the abovenamed Company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 20th October, 2023 to send in their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to Mr. Chong f*ck Sin of Unit No. 203, 2nd Floor, Block C, Damansara Intan, No. 1, Jalan SS20/27, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, the Liquidator of the said Company and, if so required by notice in writing from the said Liquidator, are, by their solicitors or personally, to come in and prove their said debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefit of any distribution made before such debts are proved. Chong f*ck Sin Liquidator Petaling Jaya 8th September, 2023 LOST OF CERTIFICATES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the following certificates have been reported as lost:- SPORTS TOTO BERHAD Name of Shareholder Certificate No No Of Share Kamarudzaman Bin 0000036451 – 0000036453 3 X 1,000 Mahmud NOTICE IS ALSO HEREBY GIVEN that if within fourteen (14) days from the date hereof no claims or representations in respect of aforesaid certificates are made to the respective company directors, they will proceed to issue replacement certificates or any other form of confirmation and the original certificates will be deemed cancelled and void BERJAYA REGISTRATION SERVICES SDN BHD 199401008064 (293743-X) Registrars Date: 08 September 2023 NOTIS DI DALAM PERKARA AKTA SYARIKAT, 2016 DAN DI DALAM PERKARA PITH COMPUTER SDN. BHD. [No. Pendaftaran 200101028882 (564640-T)] (Dalam Penggulungan Sukarela oleh Pemegang Saham) Para Pengarah Syarikat mencadangkan agar resolusi yang dinyatakan di bawah ini diedarkan kepada pemegang-pemegang Syarikat yang layak sebagai resolusi bertulis dan diluluskan sebagai Resolusi Khas (“Resolusi”) pada 08 September 2023. Mesyuarat memutuskan secara sebulat suara agar Syarikat akan digulungkan secara sukarela menurut Seksyen 439(1)(b) Akta Syarikat, 2016 dan Lam Wai Min dari 3-19 Medan Perniagaan Pauh Jaya, Jalan Baru, 13700 Perai, Pulau Pinang dilantik sebagai Pelikuidasi bagi urusan penggulungan tersebut bayaran ke atas pelikuidasi akan ditetapkan kemudian bagi menjalankan tugasnya mengikut Seksyen 456 Akta Syarikat, 2016. Bertarikh 08 September 2023 ..........tt.......... TOO TEAN LAI Pengarah Syarikat NOTIS DI DALAM PERKARA AKTA SYARIKAT, 2016 DAN DI DALAM PERKARA PITH COMPUTER SDN. BHD. [No. Pendaftaran 200101028882 (564640-T)] (Dalam Penggulungan Sukarela oleh Pemegang Saham) Notis juga diberikan kepada pemiutang-pemiutang Syarikat untuk memberi bukti hutang atau tuntutan mereka atau menubuhkan surat ikatan undang-undang yang mereka mungkin mempunyai keutamaan dan perlu diberi keutamaan dengan menyampaikan atau menghantar melalui pos kepada pelikuidasi di alamat dibawah dan afidavit yang mengesahkan hutang atau tuntutan masing-masing sebelum atau pada 08 Oktober 2023 . Sekiranya gagal, mereka akan dikecualikan daripada keutamaan dan tidak boleh membantah mana-mana pengedaran sedemikian. Borang bukti boleh didapati daripada pelikuidasi di alamat yang tertera di bawah. Bertarikh 08 September 2023 ..............t.t........... LAM WAI MIN 3-19 Medan Perniagaan Pauh Jaya Jalan Baru 13700 Perai Pulau Pinang 322 Notices 322 Notices 322 Notices NOTICE IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PITH COMPUTER SDN. BHD. [Registration No. 200101028882 (564640-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) The Directors of the Company propose that the resolution set out below be circulated to the eligible members of the Company as written resolution, and be passed as a Special Resolution (the “Resolution”) on September 8, 2023. The meeting unanimously resolved that the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1)(b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Lam Wai Min of 3-19 Medan Perniagaan Pauh Jaya, Jalan Baru, 13700 Perai, Pulau Pinang be and is hereby appointed as Liquidator to conduct the said winding up and the Liquidator’s remuneration and disbursem*nt thereon be fixed at a later date. Dated this September 8, 2023 ..........tt.......... TOO TEAN LAI Company Director IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF PITH COMPUTER SDN. BHD. [Registration No. 200101028882 (564640-T)] (In Members’ Voluntary Winding Up) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the above-named Company are required on or before October 8, 2023 to prove their debts or claims and to establish any title they may have to priority by delivering or sending through the post to the liquidator at the undermentioned address and affidavit verifying their respective debts or claims. In default they will be excluded from the benefit priority is established and from objecting to any such distribution. Form of proof may be obtained from the liquidator at the address shown below. Dated this September 8, 2023 ..............t.t........... LAM WAI MIN 3-19 Medan Perniagaan Pauh Jaya Jalan Baru 13700 Perai Pulau Pinang IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BFI ASIA HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. 202001017252 (1373572-W) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 439(2)(a) of the Companies Act, 2016, that the Special Resolution set out below was duly passed by the members of the company on 04th September, 2023. “That the company be wound up voluntarily and that LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) (NRIC No.: 661003-10- 6088) of No. 31-3, Jalan Tasik Selatan 3, Metro Centre, Bandar Tasik Selatan, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, be and is hereby appointed liquidator for the purposes of such winding up.” LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) (MAICSA 7000634) Secretary Kuala Lumpur 08th September, 2023 IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF BFI ASIA HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. 202001017252 (1373572-W) (IN MEMBERS’ VOLUNTARY WINDING-UP) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the creditors of the abovenamed company which is being wound up voluntarily are required on or before 08th October, 2023 to send their names and addresses with particulars of their debts or claims and the names and addresses of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned, the Liquidator of the said Company; and if so required in writing from the said, are by their solicitors or personally to come in and prove their debts or claims at such time and place as shall be specified in such notice or in default thereof they will be excluded from the benefits of any distribution made before such debts are proven. Kuala Lumpur 08th September, 2023 LEE SHOOK MUN @ LEE YUE YEE (f) Liquidator Liquidator No. 31-3, Jalan Tasik Selatan 3, Metro Centre, Bandar Tasik Selatan, 57000 Kuala Lumpur 322 Notices
14 theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 SPORTS CARLOS ALCARAZ will take on Daniil Medvedev in a US Open semifinal featuring the last two Flushing Meadows champions after the world No. 1 defeated a drained Alexander Zverev 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 yesterday. There were questions about how prepared Zverev would be to face the energetic Alcaraz after playing the longest match of the tournament on Tuesday – a near five-hour, five-set marathon in punishing conditions against Jannik Sinner. And while the 2020 US Open finalist showed up ready to fight his tank emptied quickly, the 12th seed unable to keep pace with Alcaraz as the defending champion stepped on the gas to pull away for a straightforward win. Alcaraz had only four break point chances throughout the entire contest but made each one of them count against a player starting to hit top gear again after an ankle injury last year. “I remember the last time I played him in Madrid,” Alcaraz said of the clash in May when Zverev lost tamely. “I was sad about it because we’ve played big matches. Seeing him in the quarters of a Grand Slam again playing at his best, I’m so happy for him. “He was struggling a lot, working really hard to come back at his best and finally we all see him showing his best tennis.” Medvedev reached the last four by beating eighth seed Andrey Rublev 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 in stifling heat but by the time Alcaraz and Zverev appeared on Arthur Ashe for the late match much of the sting had been taken out of the brutal conditions. Zverev, with his booming serve finding the mark, was able to keep pace with Alcaraz through the early part of the first set. Alcaraz capitalised on his one break chance of the opener to go up 5-3 and then quickly held serve to take control. As Zverev’s resistance dropped Alcaraz broke again early in second, delighting the crowd with some highlight reel shot-making and twirling his racquet like a baton. “Of course, I’m playing to myself and to my team. But I try to make the people enjoy watching tennis,” Alcaraz said. “Trying to do different shots that probably the crowd are not used to seeing in matches, drop shots, going to the net. I always say ‘put a smile’. I think people enjoy it as well.” Another break to get in front 5-2 and a hold left Alcaraz with a big smile and Zverev calling for a medical time out. He returned for the third set with a heavily strapped groin and fought on bravely until Alcaraz grabbed another late break before serving out for the win. – Reuters IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF OBERG MACHINERY SDN. BHD. Registration No. 199601042973 (415326-K) (Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT at the Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company held at Registered Office at Unit No. 1-2, Residensi Tun Razak, No. 83, Jalan Pekeliling Lama, 50400 Kuala Lumpur on 1st September 2023, the following special resolutions were duly passed :- 1. THAT the Company be wound up voluntarily pursuant to Section 439(1) (b) of the Companies Act, 2016 and that Mr. Wong Ah Kow of No. 15, Taman Nam Fong, Puchong, Batu 6 ¼ , 58200 Kuala Lumpur be appointed Liquidator for the purpose of such winding-up. 2. THAT the liquidator be and is hereby authorised to divide all or such parts of the surplus assets of the Company as he think fit in specie amongst the members of the Company pursuant to Section 456 of the Companies Act, 2016. WONG AH KOW Director DATED THIS : 8th September 2023 KUALA LUMPUR. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF OBERG MACHINERY SDN. BHD. Registration No. 199601042973 (415326-K) (Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the creditors of OBERG MACHINERY SDN. BHD. Registration No. 199601042973 (415326-K) which is being wound up voluntarily, are required on or before the 7th October 2023 to send their names and addresses and the particulars of their solicitors (if any) to the undersigned Liquidator at No. 15, Taman Nam Fong, Puchong, Batu 6 ¼ , 58200 Kuala Lumpur and if so required by notice in writing from the 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. WONG AH KOW Liquidator DATED THIS : 8th September 2023 KUALA LUMPUR 322 Notices 2 The SunMegazine Friday, 8 September, 2023 Clash of champions Alcaraz stops Zverev to set up semifinal date with Medvedev Sabalenka ends Zheng’s charmed New York run SECOND SEED Aryna Sabalenka crushed Zheng Qinwen 6-1 6-4 yesterday to reach her fifth straight Grand Slam semifinal and end the Chinese 23rd seed’s charmed run at the US Open. Sabalenka, who will move top of the world rankings next week, will next face 17th seed Madison Keys after the American powered past Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova. Zheng, in her first Grand Slam quarterfinal, endured a miserable time against the Australian Open winner as she was unable to get much power off her serve and committed a succession of errors. “I’m super happy with the win against her… super happy with the performance,” said Sabalenka, who lost in the semifinals in her previous two US Open appearances. Sabalenka has not dropped a set this year at Flushing Meadows and won the first five games yesterday, dropping only one point on her first serve in the opening set. Zheng improved in the second set, forcing Sabalenka to run back and forth along the baseline and showed finesse to triumph in a 21-shot rally in the fifth game. “In the second set she start playing better, serving better. I kind of expect that, because after first set it was, like, nothing to lose for her, she start playing a little bit more aggressive,” Sabalenka said. “It was a little tricky, and I’m super happy that even though she was serving really well, I was able to break her serve for once, and it was enough for that set,” Sabalenka told reporters. – Reuters AMERICAN Madison Keys rode the home crowd’s support at Arthur Ashe Stadium to swat aside Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova 6-1, 6-4 and reach the US Open semifinals yesterday. Keys, runner-up in 2017, has suffered a handful of early exits at her home Grand Slam in recent years but has excelled in the 2023 edition and is flourishing under the bright lights at Flushing Meadows. She next faces second seed Aryna Sabalenka, who dispatched China’s Zheng Qinwen 6-1, 6-4 in an earlier match to reach her fifth Grand Slam semifinal in a row. “I just love it here. I love playing here. In front of a home crowd you can never feel like you can’t get out of any situation,” said Keys, who fended off all nine break points she faced during the match. “I knew I was going to have to keep trying to get to the net, be aggressive.” Keys spoke last year about a “dark pit of despair” she found herself in after her career stalled due to the pressure of trying to stay in the upper echelons of the sport but acknowledged that playing in the majors usually had a positive impact on her performance. “I think I just find another gear when it comes to Slams,” Keys told reporters. “Part of it is that I put a little bit more pressure on myself, which is a good thing and also a bad thing sometimes. “But I’ve just peaked at the right time, I guess. I haven’t had too many disappointing exits at Slams.” Vondrousova, who served up five double faults in the match, made no excuses for her defeat and told reporters that Keys was simply too good. “I don’t think it was nerves. I played, you know, some good points. It wasn’t enough,” she added. “I think from her side it was so good on the serve. Yeah, was just trying to find a way. Just all credits to her today.” Keys expects a tough challenge from Sabalenka, who beat her in the Wimbledon quarterfinals and is assured of the world No. 1 spot when the rankings are updated after the tournament. “Almost a completely different match tomorrow,” said Keys. “It’s going to be a lot of hard hitting, not a lot of long points.” – Reuters Keys thrives on home support to reach last four Daniil warns about ‘dangerous’ heat DANIIL MEDVEDEV overcame suffocating heat and humidity to win his US Open quarterfinal yesterday and said it could have been “dangerous” if the three-set match had gone on much longer. Medvedev and fellow Russian Andrey Rublev were so drenched in sweat it looked like they had been dunked in the nearby Hudson River amid a punishing heat wave gripping New York. “We left everything out there,” said Medvedev, who claimed the 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 win in just under three hours. “The thing is that even if it would go further, we would still leave even more… and the only thing that is a little bit, let’s call it dangerous, is the question of how far could we go? “Maybe we could go five sets and it would be ‘fine,‘ yeah, we would struggle a little bit next day and it would be fine.” The US Open has no policy allowing for the suspension of play due to extreme heat. Medvedev said he doesn’t have the answers but wanted to be on the record as saying he was concerned. “Probably we cannot stop the tournament for four days because… then it basically ruins everything, the TV, even the tickets,” said Medvedev, the tournament’s third seed and 2021 champion. “I don’t have real solutions but it’s still better to speak a little bit about it before something happens.” – Reuters Haris leads Pakistan in Bangladesh rout PACE bowler Haris Rauf led Pakistan to a seven-wicket rout of Bangladesh in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup in Lahore yesterday. Haris picked up 4-19 while pace partner Naseem Shah finished with 3-34 to bundle Bangladesh out for 193 runs in 38.4 overs to set up an easy win. Opener Imam-ul-Haq struck a brilliant 78 and Mohammad Rizwan an unbeaten 63 to help Pakistan chase down the target for the loss of just three wickets in 39.3 overs. The win gives Pakistan an ideal start ahead of their highlycharged match against India in Colombo on Sunday after the first round group game between the archrivals was rained-off as a no result last week. “I will give credit to all the boys,” said skipper Babar Azam. “We are bowling well and today Haris was the leader of the pack. It’s a very good win.” Meronk sad over Ryder exclusion POLAND’S Adrian Meronk was engaged in a phone call with Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald on Monday, right up to the point when he was told he did not make the European squad. After that, the call was a blur. Despite winning three times on the DP World Tour since July of last year, including a victory in May on the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club course in Rome where the Ryder Cup will be contested from Sept. 29-Oct. 1, Meronk was told his services would not be needed. “On Monday, the first half of the day was just sadness and disbelief and then anger because the last year and a half I spent a lot of time thinking about this and that was my goal,” Meronk said. “Suddenly, I was just realising it’s not going to happen this year. I heard from (Donald) that it was tough for him as well, but to be honest when he said I’m not going I kind of stopped listening,” Meronk said. BRIEFS Madison Keys hits a return to Marketa Vondrousova (not pictured) during the US Open women’s quarterfinals match. – AFPPIX
15 * SPORTS theSUN ON FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK SCAN ME Amrabat hails Ten Hag New signing credits United boss for career development NEW Manchester United signing Sofyan Amrabat has revealed manager Erik ten Hag is one of the most important people in his career after being reunited with the Dutchman at Old Trafford. The 27-year-old, who joined on loan from Fiorentina on deadline day, came through Utrecht’s academy to play 50 times for the senior side during Ten Hag’s spell in charge between 2015 and 2017. “It was very important because I was very young,” he told the club’s website. “I was 18, 19 years old and he gave me the chance to play in the first team with Utrecht. “We had a fantastic time, a really good season. I learned a lot from him so maybe he’s one of the most important people in my career for now. “It’s fantastic because I think Erik ten Hag is a coach who will push always to the limit. “He’s hungry. He wants to win. He’s a winner and I like that. I think I’m also similar, I’m also a winner. I want to win every day so it’s a good match.” Amrabat, one of the best players of the winter World Cup in Qatar for Morocco, has been brought in to bolster United’s midfield. United have paid an £8.6 million (RM50m) loan fee but have an option to make the deal permanent for £17 million (RM99m) plus £4.2 million (RM24m) in addons. His brother, Nordin, previously played for Watford in the top flight and he is looking forward to following in the footsteps of some famous United midfielders. “I think United had so many fantastic players and young midfielders,” he added. “So, in general, I look more to the midfielders like Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, David Beckham. “But there were so many big players. Gary Neville, Rio Ferdinand, Louis Saha, Wayne Rooney, (Cristiano) Ronaldo. I can go on for one hour to say names. “Of course, (my brother and I) spoke about it. He told me that he thinks that I have to go to the Premier League, it is the strongest League in the world so now I’m here, I can’t wait.” After Sunday’s dramatic 3-1 defeat by Arsenal, Ten Hag explained why he decided to bring Amrabat to the club. “It was already, from the start of the season, one of my wishes to get another No. 6, a holding midfielder, in the squad because through the season you need that depth there,” the United boss said during his post-match press conference. “In that position we only had Casemiro who can play really well there. With others we have to make compromises but, with Sofryan Amrabat, we have another one. “Also he can play alongside Casemiro because he can also play a little bit higher on the pitch. So it’s very good to have him and I think he fits very good to Premier League football, to Champions League football. I think the demands are strong. “He is very dynamic, he’s very good in the duels. So we are pleased that we have him at United and I think he will contribute to our high targets we set.” – The Independent/Agencies Pilot error ruled out in Leicester chopper crash THE pilot of the helicopter involved in a crash which killed the owner of Leicester City Football Club said: “I’ve no idea what’s going on” as the aircraft turned out of control, a report revealed. Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, employees Nursara Suknamai and Kavep*rn Punpare, Swaffer and his partner, Izabela Roza Lechowicz – also a professional pilot – were killed in a crash on Oct 27 2018 after their helicopter took off from the club’s King Power Stadium. Swaffer, 53, made the comment seconds before the helicopter hit the ground, a report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) revealed. The Leonardo AW169 helicopter reached an altitude of approximately 130m before plummeting to the ground. Investigators found that the pilot’s pedals became disconnected from the tail rotor. This resulted in the aircraft making a sharp right turn which was “impossible” to control. The AAIB described this as “a catastrophic failure”, causing the helicopter to spin quickly, approximately five times. As the helicopter was turning out of control, a shout of: “Hey, hey, hey!” came from the rear cabin, where Vichai and his employees were seated, the AAIB said. Swaffer, who was a highly experienced pilot, responded by saying: “I’ve no idea what’s going on” and “uttered an exclamation”, according to the report. The crash occurred around an hour after a Premier League match between Leicester City and West Ham United. The 209-page report ruled out drone involvement and pilot error. – The Independent Ronaldo ‘wants more’ with Portugal PORTUGUESE superstar Cristiano Ronaldo said yesterday he wants to go “even further” after becoming the first player to score 850 career goals with Saudi club side Al-Nassr. “I want more,” the forward told a press conference before training with the national side at Oeiras, on the outskirts of Lisbon, ahead of upcoming European Championship qualifiers. “As long as I play I want to set the bar very high, I have to think big,” continued the 38-yearold. The 2016 European champions will play Slovakia in Bratislava tomorrow (2.45am malaysian time) and Luxembourg lext week at the Algarve stadium, in the south of Portugal. “I really want to win these two matches. If we win we will practically qualify,” said the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. Ronaldo this year marks his 20th anniversary in the national side, saying he was “proud” of this “longevity”. “I want to continue, because I feel good and useful but anything can happen,“ he said, adding for now he wanted to “enjoy the moment” and set himself the goal of “having an excellent Euro”. Pressure rising for out-of-form Germany ahead of Japan friendly GERMAN PLAYERS are feeling the pressure ahead of their friendly internationals against Japan and France, midfielder Jonas Hofmann said yesterday, with the team struggling for form eight months before hosting Euro 2024. The Germans have won just one of their last five matches since their shock World Cup group stage exit in December, putting coach Hansi Flick in the spotlight ahead of Sunday’s match against Japan (2.45am) and next week’s match against 2022 World Cup finalists France. “There is always pressure and we create it ourselves as well. This is part of the daily stuff in football,” Hofmann told a press conference. “This time the pressure is maybe a bit more and it is clear to all why.” Their group stage 2-1 shock loss to Japan at the World Cup last year that is more on the players’ minds, Hofmann said. “Now results have to start coming,” Hofmann said. “Everyone would be lying if they said they didn’t think back to that game at the World Cup. “But this time it is a different game and we want to show that what happened (against Japan at the World Cup) was a slipup,” he said. Rubiales could face criminal charges over ‘Kissgate’ SPANISH football star Jenni Hermoso has filed a legal complaint over an unsolicited kiss by football federation boss Luis Rubiales following Spain’s win over England in the Women’s World Cup final, the national prosecutor’s office said yesterday. With the complaint, Rubiales could face criminal charges in addition to the ongoing probe by Spain’s top sport court for “serious misconduct” and an investigation by world governing body Fifa. Rubiales, meanwhile, continues to protest his innocence in the situation, releasing a statement to say “justice will be served” and that “information… is being subjected to numerous manipulations, lies, and censorship”. Devils refuse to reveal Antony selection MANCHESTER UNITED have refused to declare Antony unavailable for selection after releasing a statement in which they said they are taking allegations he attacked his former girlfriend “seriously”. The 23-year-old is being investigated by police in both Brazil and England after Gabriella Cavallin claimed the forward punched and headbutted her and tried to throw her out of a car. United stressed their concern for victims of abuse but did not confirm if they are conducting an internal investigation into Antony’s alleged behaviour. Their statement read: “Manchester United acknowledges the allegations made against Antony and notes that the police are conducting enquiries. Pending further information, the club will be making no further comments. “As a club we are taking this matter seriously, with consideration of the impact of these allegations and subsequent reporting will have on survivors of abuse.” Reds need to strengthen further, says Kuyt LIVERPOOL have been told to head to the Netherlands once again and complete two transfers from Eredivisie clubs, similar to how the Reds pounced to land Cody Gakpo despite substantial interest from Manchester United at the time. Gakpo has become a key figure at Anfield since his arrival, before Jurgen Klopp used the summer window to strengthen his midfield. Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch were all brought in to replace the outgoing Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex OxladeChamberlain, though no more reinforcements were signed in defence or attack. Ex-Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt, who now manages Dutch side ADO Den Haag, has identified two stars of the Eredivisie that the Reds should consider in similar moves to Gakpo for the next transfer window – which opens in January. “We have a lot of talented players,” Kuyt said. “Normally, in Holland, the majority of players coming to the Premier League come from Ajax. “However, my team Feyenoord are doing quite well lately. They managed to win the league last season. They’re also doing very well this season, however, we shouldn’t underestimate PSV. “These two teams have a lot of talent. As far as Feyenoord are concerned, there’s (Lutsharel) Geertruida. He’s a very talented player, and I think he’ll definitely make the step to a big team in Europe next season. “Hopefully Liverpool will look at him as he can play several positions - right back, right centreback, No. 6. “I think at PSV, Noah Lang is one to watch. A great attacking player, playing off the wing. These two, in my opinion, will be the ones to make the next step in Europe. I hope Liverpool sign at least one!” Geertruida came through the Feyenoord academy and is now a full Netherlands international, having also been linked with both Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig throughout the summer but a move failed to materialise. Lang, who is capable of playing across the front three, only joined PSV this summer for a club-record fee of £12.8 million (RM75m) but has impressed in Belgium with Gent, perhaps the next natural step could be to join Gakpo in the Premier League with Liverpool. – Express Newspapers Lutsharel Geertruida SHORTS
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] GARETH SOUTHGATE has told his England squad to set their sights no lower than Euros glory next summer. The Three Lions boss set the bar high in the first squad meeting when met up at St George’s Park earlier this week, insisting more glorious failure was not an option. And he has demanded they show they mean business against Ukraine in Poland on Sunday (12.01am Malaysian time) and again in the supercharged friendly against Scotland in Glasgow three days later. England have hit the bar at two World Cups and the last Euros losing to Italy in the final. But Southgate demanded the change of mindset from his players this week according to defender Lewis Dunk, who is returning to the squad after a five-year break. “We had a meeting the other day and he’s talking about winning the Euros and the whole squad is thinking about winning the Euros,” said Dunk. “That’s the big change in mentality. “It’s not ‘How far can we get in a tournament.’ It’s winning a tournament. So that is probably the biggest change I’ve seen coming back. “We want to win this tournament.’ That’s what we’re going there to do. “Of course it gives you confidence. Being around these top players… I can see why he is saying that and why England can win. “We’ve got a real good squad together and a real good chance. You can see over the past tournaments, the progress there has been.” Dunk added: “I’ve been watching from home and seeing the progress, it’s been incredible. It’s progress that has kept going and now I think it’s got to hopefully be time when one of these days we do win one. “We’ve got a real good squad and have a real good chance. I come up against them week in, week out. I know what sort of players they are – when you see them on the training field, you know how good some of the talents are in this group.” Dunk said he returns to the England fold a “completely different player” after being taught to see the game through different eyes. The Brighton defender, 31, feared his chance for a recall had gone especially when injury cruelly denied him a second call-up in May last year. “I’m completely different person and a different player. I’m five years older, five years wiser and I’ve learnt a lot football-wise and lifewise in those five years,” said Dunk. “I’m a different person now and come here with a different confidence that I probably didn’t come with before.” Arsenal legend turned Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson explained why he felt England would win a major tournament under the stewardship of Southgate. “I don’t get why people keep saying this could be it for Southgate. I never expected us to win a tournament in my lifetime. “Now, I expect us to win every tournament we go to, so Southgate is doing something right. “You really do have to be careful what you wish for. These players like Gareth and you can see they do. There’s a great team spirit in the camp and the players enjoy being there. “Be careful, that’s all I’d say. If you start listening to people and get rid of Gareth with a new manager coming in like a Fabio Capello. “I didn’t hear too many people waxing lyrical about Capello when he was England manager and taking away tomato sauce from the players. “You can see the harmony between the players and the manager in the England camp. I don’t get it when people say this could be Southgate’s last tournament. “We are turning up to the Euros and we have every chance of winning the tournament. We had every chance of winning the World Cup, every chance of winning the last Euros and every chance of winning the World Cup before that.” – Express Newspapers/Agencies Southgate demands change of mindset, targets Euro glory THE Rugby World Cup gets underway tomorrow (3.15am malaysian time) when France take on three-time champions New Zealand at the Stade de France in what could be a dress rehearsal for the final back in the same arena on Oct 28. When their names were drawn in the same group three years ago the idea of using the fixture between them to kickoff the competition was quickly made reality by organisers – tickets were sold out in days. Adding to the buzz around the game is the history between the countries at World Cups. The fact that New Zealand have won three titles and France have lost three finals tells its own story but they have had some monumental clashes. The All Blacks clubbed the French in the inaugural final in 1987, narrowly came out on top in the 2011 championship match and hammered them again in the quarterfinals in 2015. In between, however, the French played breath-taking rugby to stun the Kiwis in 1999 and 2007. This weekend, captaining Les Bleus, unbeaten at home since February 2021, is star scrum-half Antoine Dupont. He has been a key part of France’s impressive performances in recent years but remains respectful about the All Blacks. “They’re surely the greatest team to see playing. They have made generations dream,” said Dupont. “Since the World Cup has existed they are the team that has made their mark the most with extraordinary players and teams. “When I was younger, like a lot who are passionate about rugby, I admired the team, and their players. “All the conditions are in place for a great event,” the 26-year-old added. Dupont’s side have beaten every team they have faced at least once since Fabien Galthie took over as head coach in December 2019. Expectations surrounding the home side are high, with many believing they can beat New Zealand and eventually lift the Webb Ellis trophy for the first time. “Obviously the closer we get, the more we feel the excitement, the enthusiasm, the fervour,” Dupont said. “The supporters, the media, social media, we see it everywhere. I don’t feel negative pressure in the team. “I hope we build up little by little and unite as a 23 to get on the field on Friday,” he added. France will be without bulldozing centre Jonathan Danty with youngster Yoram Moefana deputising in midfield. New Zealand will also be missing their first-choice No. 12 with the experienced Anton Lienert-Brown replacing the injured Jordie Barrett. At the Stade de France, coming up against Dupont, the 2021 World Rugby player of the year, will be Aaron Smith winning his 120th Test cap. “He’s an amazing athlete and an amazing player,” Smith said of Dupont. “He’s proved that over the last few years with all the awards he’s won. “Defensively our game has a big eye on Dupont and what he can do, and about shutting that down,” Smith added. Smith, 34, helped his country to the 2015 World Cup title but was also part of the side to suffer a record defeat to South Africa in their most recent outing late last month. He is expected to retire from Test rugby at the end of the World Cup having also added a host of Bledisloe Cups and Rugby Championships to his trophy haul in a lengthy international career. “When you get to this part of your career, every day’s a special day and it doesn’t get more special than an All Black at a World Cup,” Smith said. “For me, when the game got announced France at home at the Stade de France, I couldn’t help dreaming and visioning being in those moments. “As a competitor, you want these moments.” – AFP Les Bleus and All Blacks light Rugby World Cup touch paper FRIDAY • SEPTEMBER 8, 2023 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . Read iPaper at www.thesundaily.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Failure not an option Carlos Alcaraz celebrates after defeating Alexander Zverev during their men’s singles quarterfinal match of the 2023 US Open in New York yesterday. – AFPPIX FULL STORY ON PAGE 14
