INSIDE page page Growing gains 2 Blessed 4 TELLING IT AS IT IS from discarded Ramadan for durian seeds ex-terror supporter

ON WEDNESDAY APRIL 21, 2021 No. 7766 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my

CURBING COVID ... A security guard putting up a closure notice at SMK USJ 23 in Subang Jaya after the school and 18 others in Selangor were ordered shut to facilitate sanitisation works. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Power play █ BY ALISHA NUR MOHD NOOR leave of absence to deal with his legal troubles. [email protected] “Unlike Muhyiddin, Ahmad Zahid and even oNew battle lines being drawn for GE15 Anwar, Tok Mat does not have any political ETALING JAYA: With Datuk Seri liability,” Jeniri said. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in troubled minister position if Umno-led Barisan Nasional Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and PKR Another political analyst, Khoo Kay Peng, waters, the field is now open for the (BN) wrests power from Perikatan Nasional president Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. said the split within Umno will likely rule out post of Umno president. (PN) in the next general election (GE15). Umno has announced that it will no longer any possibility of early party elections. PThe obvious choice is current deputy Mohamad, popularly known as Tok Mat, is be a part of PN when the nation goes to the “Ahmad Zahid still has very strong president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, but known as a likeable person and is acceptable to polls again. grassroots support and he will put up a fight to Sombrong division head Datuk Seri all races but lacks power, an analyst said. That raises the possibility of three coalitions remain in power,” he said. Hishammuddin Hussein and Ketereh division “Mohamad’s recent statements, particularly – BN, PN and Pakatan Harapan (PH) – jostling While he acknowledged that Mohamad is chief Tan Sri Annuar Musa are also in on the economy and politics, have resonated for power, a first for Malaysia. a “viable challenger”, he believes that Ahmad contention, according to political analysts who well with the people,” said Malaysian Council of There is a high possibility that Muhyiddin Zahid has the edge over his number two in spoke to theSun. Professors senior fellow Dr Jeniri Amir. will seek his first mandate before the next the party. However, it is still too early to rule out He said Mohamad also has better leadership elections are due. He indicated this when he Even within BN, Ahmad Zahid incumbent president Ahmad Zahid. direction and is a potential candidate for the announced on March 1 that elections would be still commands respect. Khoo Despite calls from within Umno for fresh prime minister’s post if BN regains power. held “as soon as the country recovers from the said component parties MCA Turn to party elections, an analyst said he still In Jeniri’s view, that could possibly put him Covid-19 pandemic”. and MIC will continue to — commands very strong grassroots support. in a three-way fight for the country’s top Ahmad Zahid, who is facing a litany of support him, unless Umno elects page 3 More importantly, at stake is the prime leadership position, against incumbent Prime corruption charges, has taken a six-month a new leader. 2 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Talks with Growing gains from Belgian envoy on commodities discarded durian seeds BANGI: Plantation Industries and Commodities Ministry officials are expected to meet the Belgian with failure but he did not allow that to dampen ambassador to Malaysia on oEnterprising businessman produces saplings of D24 and his spirits. He kept going until he succeeded commodity issues early next month. and today, he is earning up to RM20,000 a Its Minister Datuk Mohd Musang King species by bud-grafting choice shoots month from his nursery business. Khairuddin Aman Razali said the The durian saplings are ready for sale when meeting will not necessarily be they are three to four months old. The Musang confined to palm oil issues but could KOTA BELUD: The idiom “one man’s trash is Kampung Rangalau in Sabah since 2017, said King species fetches between RM38 and RM150 also be a platform for discussing another man’s treasure” holds true for Donny the idea of starting his own durian nursery per sapling, depending on the size. matters related to other national Ien, who runs a profitable enterprise growing came when he was working in Penang about Donny’s customers are mainly from Kota commodities, including cocoa. saplings of high-value durian species using eight years ago. Belud and Tawau. He also has customers in “The Belgian ambassador has discarded durian seeds. “I saw a lot of potential in durian cultivation other districts but due to the current requested to meet me but due to time During the fruit season between July and because in Penang then, Musang King was inter-district travel ban in Sabah, he sends constraints, our meeting will be held December when durians are plentiful, he buys priced at up to RM100 a kilogramme,” he told saplings to them via postal service. when I pay a courtesy call on the Yang seeds at about RM3 to RM4 a kilogramme from Bernama, adding that he and his wife later To meet the demand for durian saplings, he di-Pertua Negeri of Malacca in early durian stallholders who collect them after returned to Sabah to learn how to grow durian also procures small durian plants from Pasir May,” he told reporters in customers have finished eating. trees. Mas in Kelantan at RM10 each. conjunction with the pre-launch of He then sows the seeds in his nursery to Donny, who gets his stock of Musang King At his nursery, Donny cultivates the Dalit the Malaysian Palm Oil Board produce rootstock, after which selected buds from his aunt’s orchard, said the bud- durian, which has orange-coloured flesh, and Transfer of Technology Seminar and premium durian species such as Musang King, grafting process, which takes about 21 days to durian Bunga Merah, which is popular in Exhibition 2021 yesterday. Tembaga and D24 are bud-grafted onto them. complete, has to be done carefully to ensure Sabah, as well as fruits such as pulasan, Mohd Khairuddin said what is Donny, 39, who has been operating his success. mangosteen and even avocado and important is that both parties can nursery called Don’s Nursery at his village in In his early days of bud-grafting, Donny met pandan coconut. discuss issues related to Malaysia’s commodities and cooperation that Donny with can be forged. the durian On April 13, the international saplings in his media reported that biofuels made nursery. – from palm oil and soybean will no BERNAMAPIX longer be allowed in the Belgian market, as well as in its transport sector starting next year, as part of its efforts to reduce global deforestation. Commenting on Sri Lanka’s ban on Malaysian palm oil imports, Mohd Khairuddin said Malaysia is always open to talks on the issue. “We have received high demand for palm oil. Our supply is not enough. “So, we are confident that our palm oil market remains competitive and at the same time, we are also exploring new markets, especially in Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and Asean countries.” Meanwhile, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board yesterday signed agreements with four local companies for the commercialisation of technologies it has developed on fertiliser formulations, plantation mechanisation and palm-based polyols. The companies are FGV Fertiliser Sdn Bhd, Palmyra Polyurethane Systems Sdn Bhd, Fulle Technik Sdn Bhd and RZtech Resources Sdn Bhd. The seminar and exhibition, which will be held on July 1, is an important Figures in report misinterpreted, says ministry EPF: Age limit of 75 annual platform to introduce technologies and innovations in the PUTRAJAYA: Reports of 1,684 deaths involving using motorcycles. no longer applicable palm oil industry developed by the p-Hailing riders within nine months of the The post also included Transport Minister board’s researchers. movement control order (MCO) last year had Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong’s quotes during the KUALA LUMPUR: The Employees It is one of the board’s strategies to been misinterpreted, the Transport Ministry campaign, in which he said: “Despite the Provident Fund (EPF) said an old statement increase the commercialisation of said yesterday. implementation of the MCO, deaths (averaged) regarding the maximum age of 75 years for technology. In a post on its Facebook page, the ministry 12 a day, which is not a small number. In contributors to receive dividend payments is The commercialisation rate of said the numbers provided during the general, more than 60%, or almost two-thirds outdated and no longer applicable. patented technology has so far P-Hailing Safety Campaign programme held on involved motorcyclists. The pension fund clarified this yesterday reached 32.4% while the April 9 did not specifically refer to two-thirds of “However, the ones who most used the after a statement on the maximum commercialisation rate is 30.4%. the total 2,576 road deaths involving p-hailing roads during the MCO were those involved in age for dividend payment went viral, So far, 221 technologies have been riders. essential services.” circulating via WhatsApp and other online commercialised, with a market value P-hailing is defined as services involving The ministry expressed hope that inaccurate platforms. of RM3 billion. – Bernama delivery of food, drinks and parcels by riders reports will not be spread. – Bernama “We urge members to be cautious of misleading or unsubstantiated information received through social media platforms and refrain from circulating them. Anwar hints at defending Port Dickson seat in GE15 “Members are advised to always verify the source and date of the information PORT DICKSON: Opposition leader Datuk Anwar, who is also PKR president, said as other contenders with a 23,560-vote majority. obtained,” it said in a statement. Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hinted that he will the elected representative for the The by-election was held after then EPF had on Nov 3, 2016 announced that most likely defend his Port Dickson constituency, he has established good rapport incumbent Datuk Danyal Balagopal Abdullah, effective Jan 1, 2017, members will continue parliamentary seat in the 15th general with the people in Port Dickson and there is 68, vacated the seat on Sept 12 the same year to earn dividends for the remaining portion election (GE15). no longer an issue of him still being to enable Anwar to return to the Dewan of their EPF savings up to age 100. “My heart is now in Port Dickson as it is an “outsider”. Rakyat. This was introduced following an more convenient as I am already familiar “The outsider issue came up (when I first It was the fourth by-election held within amendment to the EPF Act 1991 to ensure with it. won the seat) because they were afraid that I five months after the 14th general election on that members who choose to maintain a “However, the final decision on whether I would not visit them often. Although I have May 9, 2018. portion of their savings after retirement will will contest in Port Dickson will be made by other responsibilities, rest assured, the Previously, Anwar served as MP for continue to benefit from the compounding the party,” he told reporters after presenting constituency will be well cared for.” Permatang Pauh, a seat that his wife Datin Seri effect of annual dividends until their Ramadan aid to mosques and surau in the Anwar won the seat in a parliamentary Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail contested and won savings have been fully withdrawn. constituency yesterday. by-election on Oct 13, 2018, by defeating six after he was convicted and jailed. – Bernama – Bernama theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 3 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Self-help key to success for Indians █ BY SHIVANI SUPRAMANI bumiputras and 44% for Chinese. start to lift themselves out of the AND ELLY FAZANIZA oThe community should make an effort to get Loh blames the income gap on quagmire by being more self- [email protected] historical socio-economic factors sufficient. “Only then can they excel,” out of the rut, say analysts such as ethnic identification with he said. PETALING JAYA: The Indian economic function. The first Indian He said young Indians could start community in Malaysia continues to migrants to Malaya largely worked in by learning various skills and enrol in lag behind the other races, but it will Manimaran Subramaniam agreed, higher risk of falling into the trap of the estates or as labourers. entrepreneurship programmes that be a mistake to place the blame adding that the community should gangsterism. Sociologist Dr Charanjit Kaur said are readily available. squarely on the government. become more self-sufficient. According to Loh, official data those who live in the rural areas are Loh agreed that the key is Many analysts and stakeholders They were commenting on shows that 72% of gang members “notoriously known for their education or technical and who spoke to theSun agreed that questions raised over the RM400 today are Indians, compared with deplorable economic situation”. vocational education and training. there is a high incidence of social million allocation to the Malaysian 25% for Chinese and the Malays, who “Many among the urban poor are “Nurturing and mentoring the problems in the community, and a lot Indian Transformation Unit (Mitra) make up the rest. also Indians,” she told theSun. younger individuals in the of that has to do with historical to help the community. Critics have Indians also face other social As a result, she said, there has community will produce a new factors. said that despite the huge sum of problems. Income disparity is highest been a lack of dedication to finishing generation of Malaysian Indian On the other hand, they believed money, there has been little in the community, data from the school, leading to a higher dropout entrepreneurs,” he said. that the community should make an improvement for Malaysians of Department of Statistics Malaysia rate. “Malaysian Indians have actually effort to get out of the rut. Indian origin. shows. Charanjit, an assistant professor at done pretty well, relatively speaking. There are many very successful Mitra was formerly known as the Indian children account for 13% of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, said They continue to contribute to the individuals in the Indian community, Socio-Economic Development of the all school dropouts, also the nation’s economic factors are the root of the development and well-being of our a strong indication that they have the Indian Community Unit. highest for a single community. problems the Indians face. nation in all fields – from medicine potential to make it like other The Indian community is not According to the Education For instance, she said, 80% of and law to IT and engineering,” he Malaysians, head of social, law and without its problems. Ministry and the Examination those in the B40 or low income group, said. human rights at Emir Research Jason Loh and Malaysian Indian Youth Syndicate, only 5% of Indian children are from the Indian community. As Manimaran put it, “give a man Loh Seong Wei said. Development Foundation Penang whose parents have no formal However, all is not lost for the a fish and he will be fed for a day, but Head of the Department of Indian branch chairman N. Kesavan agreed education are likely to reach community. teach a man to fish and he will be fed Studies at Universiti Malaya Dr that Indian youths are substantially at university, compared with 33% for Manimaran said the Indians can forever”. Penang wants MAHB: Cooking Sufyan uses ciku wood, buffalo horn and epoxy schools closed fibre to make traditional video at KLIA due to Covid bows. – BERNAMAPIX just a gimmick made public SEPANG: Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) has GEORGE TOWN: The Penang clarified the cooking video in an state government has proposed open space at the KL International that the Health Ministry make Airport (KLIA) is just a gimmick or public the names of schools or merely a promotional effort by one educational institutions that are of its food and beverage outlets, required to close due to Covid-19 Eraman Mini Cafe. cases, to stop the public from In a statement yesterday, making speculations. MAHB stressed that no cooking Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow was allowed within the open area said parents are concerned over of the terminal building as per the the detection of Covid-19 cases at regulation in the Airport Fire and educational institutions as this Rescue Service Fire Safety Manual, involves the safety of their which does not allow open-flame children. stove or electrical hot plate to be Currently, he said, the ministry used other than at designated would conduct a risk assessment kitchens within the terminal before deciding to close schools building. or classes in a particular school, “The outlet had featured a once Covid-19 cases are gimmick that simulates the detected. cooking of the Malay traditional “There may be cases detected dish ‘gulai kawah’ by placing a wok in schools or educational on a stove stand without the gas institutions in Penang but as the burner but merely a chafing dish number is too negligible to be heating fuel, known as Sterno gel. defined as a cluster, the schools “All dishes are cooked and are not closed,” he told reporters prepared at a separate location after the signing of a Retired mechanical engineer goes into bow making and brought to the Eraman Mini memorandum of understanding Cafe ahead of the outlet’s opening between Universiti Sains ALOR GAJAH: Two years ago, when “I use ciku (sapodilla) wood, Kampung Pulau, Durian Tunggal. hours,” said MAHB in response to Malaysia, Digital Penang and Sufyan Mohd Salleh retired as a buffalo horn and epoxy fibre in the He said it would normally take the viral video of a Ramadan Angkasa X Innovation here director from a marine engineering making of the traditional bow one hour to finish a bow, but a special bazaar with stall operators yesterday. company, he never expected to because each has its own advantages. order would take at least two days. cooking out in the open area Nevertheless, Chow said, become a bowyer. “For instance, epoxy fibre is highly He said one of his proudest within the terminal building. schools and educational Yet today, the 61-year-old flexible, durable and can handle moments was when a Hungarian The airport operator said institutions in Penang have been Malaccan, who studied mechanical maximum draw weight, while the tourist acknowledged the quality of Eraman Mini Cafe is currently operating in accordance with the engineering at Sekolah Vokasional fine-grained ciku wood and buffalo his bow. “After putting it to the test, holding a Ramadan bazaar-like standard operating procedures Sungai Abong (now known as Kolej horn lend themselves to carving. the tourist bought two bows because experience to attract more (SOP) as set by the ministry. Vokasional Muar), is considered one “After the epoxy fibre is shaped, I they were so skilfully made,” said customers to the outlet. On SOP compliance at of the best in the business locally. make the grip and then the limb tip Sufyan, who makes traditional, horse It said the buffet spread is Ramadan bazaars in Penang, He used his experience from a using either buffalo horn or ciku and children’s bows. contained within the outlet area of Chow, who is also Padang Kota career spanning the aeronautical, wood based on the customer’s Sufyan’s bows cost between about 50ft by 50ft and food bought assemblyman, said the situation marine and oil and gas industries, as specifications. After that comes the RM160 and RM450, while upgrades from the Eraman Mini Cafe can in the state is still under control as well as travels to 40 countries, as bowstring, which is made from a are free. He also holds free archery also be consumed within the the SOP is being adhered to at the inspiration for his archery bow, the special material,” he told Bernama and bow-making classes at his home. outlet itself, which currently offers bazaars. - Bernama Taming Sari. when met at Taming Sari Archery in - Bernama a maximum dine-in capacity of 55 persons at any one time. MAHB said the Eraman Mini Cafe, which opened last October, has ensured that the standard ‘Zahid not likely to win if Umno holds elections now’ operating procedures were in place and all customers were Khoo added he does not political commentator Prof Dr term if party elections are held now. Alliance led by former youth and required to scan their body believe Umno will hold party From Mohamad Tajuddin Rasdi. He “If he does win, BN component sports minister Syed Saddiq Syed temperature and the MySejahtera elections before the term of front said rather than Mohamad, it is parties will likely go their own way. Abdul Rahman, Parti Pejuang Tanah app at the cafe entrance. the current leadership ends. page Annuar or Parti Warisan Sabah No one wants to be with the ‘court Air led by two-time prime minister “The wearing of face masks is “First, the supreme council (Warisan) chief Shafie Apdal who cluster’ (leaders facing charges in Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and the strictly enforced and customers will have to endorse it, but there is are the more likely contenders for the court).” Malaysian Advancement Party, led are each assigned a number to no push factor. Ahmad Zahid will post of prime minister. Tajuddin said the new threat to by former unity minister P. Waytha ensure the cafe’s maximum fight to prevent it.” He said within Umno, Ahmad PN would be an alliance of Warisan, Moorthy, with support from PH and capacity is not breached,” it said. Presenting a contrarian view is Zahid is not likely to win another the Malaysian United Democratic Umno. - Bernama 4 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS 451,237 individuals complete two-dose Ex-inmate glad to spend vaccination KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 451,237 individuals have completed two doses of their vaccine shots as of Monday, under the Ramadan with family first phase of the National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Adham oChe Sabri had observed Baba said during the same period, 726,411 individuals had received the first dose, the holy month in prison bringing the total number of doses of Covid-19 vaccines administered in the for 20 years country to 1,177,648. According to an infographic shared on his official Twitter account yesterday, Adham MACHANG: It is certainly a blessed and happy said that Selangor recorded the highest Ramadan this year for former Al-Ma’unah number of first dose administered at 101,208 member Che Sabri Che Jaafar, 51, because he people, followed by Kuala Lumpur with gets to observe the fasting month with his 80,978, Johor with 70,999, Sarawak with mother, Rohmah Karim, 79, for the first time 70,592 and Perak with 60,384. after spending 20 years behind bars. Selangor also recorded the highest Che Sabri, who was released on Aug 17 last number of individuals who had completed year after Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan both doses at 64,306, followed by Perak with Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah 48,926, Sabah with 43,452, Kuala Lumpur pardoned him, said he was grateful to be able with 40,681 and Sarawak with 35,653. to enjoy the joyous spirit of the holy month, Meanwhile, Adham said as of Monday, a including breaking fast, waking up for the pre- total of 9,048,237, or 37.3%, of those targeted dawn meal (sahur) and performing “tarawih” had registered, with Selangor recording the prayers at home. highest number of registrations at 2,375,926. “After 20 years of spending Ramadan in The implementation period for the first prison, I am thankful beyond words to be back phase of vaccination is from February to with my family, especially my mother,” he said April. The second phase is from April to at his home where he operates his tailor shop August, involving 9.4 million senior citizens in Pekan Pulai Chondong, here. aged 60 and above, as well as vulnerable Che Sabri, the seventh child among 10 Che Sabri hard at work on his sewing machine at his home in Pekan Pulai Chondong, Machang groups and persons with disabilities. siblings, told Bernama he was glad to have the yesterday. – BERNAMAPIX The third phase, scheduled from May to opportunity to cook his favourite dishes, February 2022, is for individuals aged 18 and especially “nasi kerabu”, to break fast with prison and celebrating Hari Raya only with get them ready in time for Raya. I work from above, targeting more than 13.7 million his mother. other inmates, he was always sad when 9am to 4pm daily and I can get two suits ready people. – Bernama Although he had got used to living in Ramadan approached because it was during in a day.” the holy month that he missed his family most. Che Sabri said he obtained his skills Che Sabri runs a men’s tailor shop, CSCJ certificate in tailoring while in prison and he Tailor, which he started in October last year. He hopes to expand his business further in future. said business has since been picking up. He was among 13 convicts who were “Right now, I have almost 100 orders, which granted an early pardon by the King in must be ready before Hari Raya,” he said, conjunction with the 63rd National Day adding that he sews all types of men’s clothing celebration last year. such as baju Melayu, kurta, robes and so forth, Che Sabri was sentenced to life and the price ranges from RM120 to RM150. imprisonment in 2000 on charges of waging 379,473 “I have stopped taking orders since the start war against the King when he was with the of Ramadan as I am afraid I may not be able to Al-Ma’unah organisation. ‘Help boost registration rate’

KUALA LUMPUR: All parties, including relatives, friends and acquaintances. This is elected representatives, employers, the the time for us to be patriotic by promoting 21,268 1,389 community and relevant ministries, must play measures to heal our country,” he said in a a more aggressive role in ensuring that people statement yesterday. register for the Covid-19 vaccine, so that the The relevant ministries should also use country will be able to achieve the target of existing resources to ensure that information 70% immunity. on the benefits of vaccines can be Alliance for Safe Community chairman disseminated well, he added. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said that elected Expertise, in terms of the media, should representatives should intensify efforts and also be mobilised to produce videos to refute make the vaccine registration campaign a purported disadvantages of vaccines, which 2,341 249 1,592 3 major item on the agenda in their are being disseminated by anti-vaccine respective constituencies, as well as use their groups, he said. influence to gain a response from the “We must speed up the country’s population. vaccination rate so that the people’s To ensure more people register, Lee also confidence and trust in the immunisation suggested that employers take the initiative to programme can be achieved immediately.” promote vaccine registration among their As of yesterday, the total number of doses of employees, either through emails or daily Covid-19 vaccines administered in the country announcements, as a reminder. stood at 1,177,648, while a total of 9,048,237 or “We also hope that members of the public 37.3%, of those targeted had registered for the will help promote vaccination among vaccine. – Bernama

95% of frontliners received first jab

MALACCA: At least 95% of the total 571,000 Mariman and Malacca health director Datuk frontline workers have received the first dose of Dr Ismail Ali, at the Dewan Tun Ali Vaccine the vaccine under phase one of the National Centre in Bukit Katil yesterday. Covid-19 Immunisation Programme (NIP). Khairy, who is Science, Technology and Coordinating minister for the programme, Innovation Minister, said 84% or 528 out of 540 Khairy Jamaluddin, said he expects the doses of vaccine were successfully given on the vaccination for all frontliners to be completed first day of phase two of NIP in Malacca by the end of April. yesterday. Citing Malacca, he said all the frontliners The remaining 16% was not administered have received their first dose of the vaccine, because the supposed recipients were not with some only waiting for the second dose to present, he said, adding that he would look into complete the vaccination. the matter. He said this when observing phase two of However, he said he was satisfied with the NIP, together with state Health and Anti-Drug rate of attendance as it reflected the public Committee chairman Datuk Rahmad confidence in the vaccine. – Bernama theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 5 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

Forgery issue not Against all odds relevant: Prosecutor PUTRAJAYA: Ad hoc prosecutor Datuk V. Sithambaram told the Court of Appeal yesterday the defence’s argument on the Standing tall again after use of forged or cut-and-paste signatures by two SRC International Sdn Bhd directors to remit RM42 million into Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak’s personal accounts was not an issue in the case. tragic accident He said if at all there was a dispute, it was between the company and the bank, not Najib. programme with corporate sponsorship. “The defence are merely busybodies. oWheelchair-bound agriculturalist runs successful Recounting the moment that changed his Najib has no privity of contract with the life seven years ago, Tang said he was driving bank. The issue of forged or vegetable business, food programme to aid disabled, poor near a university in Kota Damansara when a unauthorised scan and electronic motorcycle crossed his path. transfer is a non-starter, especially for “In trying to avoid hitting the motorcyclist, I the criminal breach of trust charges. █ BY ELLY FAZANIZA An agriculturalist and a private researcher, swerved and crashed into a road divider. My “The issue raised is a red herring by [email protected] Tang was doing well in his chosen field until an car flipped and hit a tree,” he told theSun. the defence. Who would have the accident left him unable to use his legs. The accident injured his spinal cord that audacity to fix a then sitting prime A POSITIVE attitude goes a long way in Despite that, he found a way to return to eventually rendered him a paraplegic. Tang minister (Najib),” he said. helping one recover from a major personal active life, and today runs a successful also suffered six broken ribs and vision loss in “My Lord, the appellant did not sue setback, as proven by Dr Billy Tang. agricultural project and food advocacy the left eye. the bank for negligence or asked the The six months spent in rehabilitation in financial institution to pay back the Malacca gave him the opportunity to reflect on money. No company will keep quiet if his life and the tragedy while regaining both there is no proper authorisation and physical and emotional strength. withdrawal of money,” he said, adding “It was then that I embraced life as a person that there was evidence that the SRC with disability (PWD),” he said. directors had authorised the bank to Tang, 55, put his experience of more than a conduct an electronic transfer. The bank decade in the agricultural business to good said it had also acted based on the use. mandate of SRC signatories. “Apart from getting back on my feet, so to He submitted this before a speak, I also wanted to help the marginalised three-member bench led by Judge Datuk community, including the poor,” he said. Abdul Karim Abdul Jalil in the hearing of To that end, Tang set up PWD Smart Najib’s appeal against his conviction and Farmability. jail sentence for misappropriation of To help himself manage a vegetable farm, RM42 million in SRC International he came up with a self-watering organic funds. terrarium box. The other two judges on the bench “The box contains nutrient-rich dense soil, were Datuk Has Zanah Mehat and Datuk making it possible for vegetables to grow for Vazeer Alam Mydin Meera. the next three to 12 months,” he explained The Penang-based veteran criminal when theSun visited his farm in Subang Jaya. lawyer said Najib had not returned the “Each box is available for adoption to RM42 million that was deposited into his encourage individuals and businesses to take accounts although he had admitted on the RM150 cost of nurturing the vegetables receiving the money that belonged to in it. It is a low-budget supply of organic SRC. – Bernama vegetables,” he said. “Through corporate sponsorship, we also make available fresh and nutritious vegetables TWO NABBED OVER to the poor,” he added. FALSE TRAVEL PERMIT Tang said more than 2,000 terrariums or KUALA LUMPUR: A man and a boxes of his organic vegetables have already Vietnamese woman were arrested been adopted by businesses and organisations. on Monday for falsifying a police His effort has drawn corporate sponsorship BRIEFSinterstate travel permit at the and a matching grant of RM500,000. Terminal Bersepadu Selatan in Salak Tang’s next target is to help other PWDs South. Cheras police chief ACP through a nutrition security project. Mohamed Mokhsein Mohamed Zon But ultimately, the objective is to ensure said yesterday the 38-year-old man that nutritious food is available to people from had attempted to purchase a ticket all economic backgrounds, he said. for a bus ride to Penang for his Tang shows the terrarium boxes filled with nutritious vegetables that are ready for adoption by “I believe that nutritious food should not be 41-year-old Vietnamese friend at businesses and organisations. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN a luxury but a basic human right.” about 10pm, but a ticketing clerk became suspicious of the permit he produced. He said the clerk then took both of them to a nearby police beat base at the terminal to verify Four arrested over murder of cook Job scam ring rakes the permit. “On checking the form, █ BY CHARLES RAMENDRAN in RM220,000 we found that although it had been [email protected] issued by police, there were several unauthorised changes made on it,” PETALING JAYA: A scam syndicate offering he said. Mohamed Mokhsein said PETALING JAYA: Four men have been arrested apartment, three unidentified men were part-time jobs purportedly with popular the man and the foreigner were on suspicion of murdering a 20-year-old cook in spotted entering the victim’s unit at midnight e-commerce platform Lazada has fleeced arrested for investigations and Subang Jaya and disposing his body at a rubbish on Sunday. victims of about RM220,000 since February. remanded for a day and four days dump on Sunday. About 30 minutes later, the victim was seen Selangor police commercial crimes respectively. The victim, who worked at a restaurant in going into the apartment. On Monday, police investigations department head ACP SS15 Subang Jaya, was strangled with an found the victim’s personal documents, wallet, Muhammad Yazid Muhammad Yew THREE HELD OVER electrical cable before he was stabbed and his a carpet and a piece of cloth under a bridge in yesterday said the syndicate, claiming to be GAMBLING VIDEOS throat slit. SS16, Subang Jaya. an agent for Lazada, had offered part-time KUALA LUMPUR: Two local women His body was found in a large black bag in a He said about two hours later, the victim’s work as an “online purchasing agent” and a man were arrested in rubbish dump at Persiaran Kewajipan near the body was traced to the rubbish dump. through messages sent via the WhatsApp connection with two more Federal highway. “Initial investigations showed that the three application. Aidilfitri-themed videos promoting Among the suspects arrested was the victim’s men, including the victim’s housemate, were at He said victims were sent a link of a online gambling activities. Dang housemate. the house when the victim arrived. product on Lazada where they were Wangi district police chief ACP Subang Jaya police chief ACP Abd Khalid “Police believe the men had attacked the required to pay directly into a bank account Mohamad Zainal Abdullah said in a Othman yesterday said the victim’s 60-year-old victim and about an hour later, the CCTV provided by the syndicate, and not by the statement all suspects, aged 21 to aunt called police after she could not contact recording showed they left the place carrying a usual process of paying through the 42, were detained around the her nephew on Sunday. Her nephew would heavy bag. e-commerce platform. capital after police detected two normally call her daily after work. The suspects fled after dumping his body “The syndicate claimed that this was to more videos promoting online Abd Khalid said the woman contacted the about a kilometre away from the apartment,” increase the ratings of a product. The gambling, lasting 30 seconds and 48 victim’s employer, who told her that the cook he said. victim’s payment would be reimbursed with seconds on Monday. “All suspects did not show up for work. Abd Khalid said by 10.30pm on Monday, a commission of between 8% and 15%.” will be remanded and investigated Together with the employer and police, the four suspects aged between 20 and 25 were The syndicate would pay the victims under Section 504 of the Penal woman went to the victim’s rented service arrested in Kuala Lumpur, Kajang and Port reimbursement and commissions for the Code, Section 233(1) of the apartment in Jalan Kemajuan Subang and Dickson. Two of the suspects were employed as first two assignments. However, it would Malaysian Communications and found the house in a mess. a factory worker and a shop assistant while the delay payment for the next assignment, and Multimedia Act 1998 and Section The victim was not in and there were also other two are jobless. victims would not be able to contact it. 4(1)(g) of the Common Gambling traces of blood in a bathroom. Abd Khalid said two of them also had Muhammad Yew said between Feb 6 and House Act 1953.” – Bernama Abd Khalid said on checking recordings of criminal records. The suspects are being yesterday, police received 23 police reports closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) of the remanded to facilitate investigations. on the scam. 6 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS Asean calls summit on Myanmar crisis on Feb 1. oEU imposes But there have been divergent views among Asean members on sanctions on how to respond to the army’s use of lethal force against civilians 10 junta officials and the group’s policies on non-interference in each others’ affairs have limited its ability to BANGKOK: Southeast Asian act. countries will discuss the crisis in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Myanmar at a summit in Jakarta Philippines and Singapore have on Saturday, the Asean bloc’s sought to ramp up pressure on BALD MOVE... South Korean university students getting their heads shaved in front of the Japanese embassy in Seoul secretariat said yesterday, but the junta. yesterday to protest Japan’s decision to release water from its crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. – REUTERSPIX Thailand’s prime minister said Thailand, Myanmar’s several members will be neighbour, has said it is “gravely represented only by their foreign concerned” about escalating ministers. bloodshed, but close military ties Woman who stormed Tesla booth at car show detained Prime Minister Prayuth and fears of a flood of refugees Chan-ocha said he would not be mean it is unlikely to go further. BEIJING: An unhappy customer who companion – identified only by their “disrupting public order”, while Li attending and Thailand would be Brunei, the current chair of invaded the Tesla booth at the surnames, Zhang and Li – “caused received a warning, police said. represented by Deputy Prime the bloc, said after a meeting of Shanghai auto show by clambering chaos” at the trade fair on Monday Videos that went viral showed Minister Don Pramudwinai, who the group’s foreign ministers last atop a car in protest, creating a social when they arrived at the Tesla display Zhang wearing a T-shirt with the words is also foreign minister. month, Asean expressed concern media stir, will be detained for five “to express their dissatisfaction due to a “The brakes don’t work” and shouting “Some other countries will about the situation in Myanmar days, Shanghai police said yesterday. consumer dispute”. similar accusations while staff also send their foreign ministers,” and called on “all parties to Police said the woman and a female Zhang was ordered detained for struggled to calm the scene. – AFP Prayuth told reporters after a refrain from instigating further weekly cabinet meeting. violence”. A Thai government official Romeo Jr Abad Arca, assistant said on Saturday that Myanmar director of the community junta chief Min Aung Hlaing relations division of the Asean would go to Jakarta, although the Secretariat, said Saturday’s Myanmar government has not summit would take place at its commented. Jakarta headquarters under strict However, this is seen as health and security protocols due unlikely – in previous stints of to the pandemic, confirming an military rule, Myanmar has earlier advisory. usually been represented at In its firmest response yet, the regional meetings by a prime European Union said on Monday minister or foreign minister. nine members of the junta’s State The 10-member Association Administration Council, formed of Southeast Asian Nations the day after the coup, had been (Asean) has been trying to find a targeted with travel bans and way to guide fellow member asset freezes. Myanmar out of the bloody Information Minister U Chit turmoil that it descended into Naing was also sanctioned. The after the military overthrew an decision follows similar elected government, led by measures by the United States. Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, – Reuters Duterte ready to send navy ships to contested waters MANILA: Philippine President our oil, then by that time ... I will Rodrigo Duterte said on Monday send my grey ships there to state he is willing to deploy military a claim,” he said, while also ships to the South China Sea to emphasising his desire “to assert the country’s claim over oil remain friends” and “share deposits in a contested part of the whatever it is”. waterway. Duterte spoke the day after Duterte, who has embraced top military leadership rejected a China since taking power in 2016, rumour that a social media group has faced growing domestic involving members of the armed criticism for his reluctance to forces had demanded the confront Beijing over its activities president denounce China or in Philippine-claimed waters. they would no longer support Tensions spiked last month him as their commander in chief. after hundreds of Chinese vessels Beijing asserts sovereignty were detected at Whitsun Reef in over almost all of the waterway. the Spratly Islands, which are In 2016, a UN-backed tribunal contested by several countries, rejected its claims. including the Philippines and Beijing has ignored the ruling. China. Duterte has repeatedly said Beijing has refused repeated conflict with China would be demands by the Philippines to futile, and on Monday warned of call back the ships, which Manila “bloodshed” if the Philippines says are maritime militia vessels tried to take back the waters. and China says are fishing boats. The dispute comes as Manila “I’m not so much interested receives millions of doses of now in fishing. I don’t think Covid-19 jabs from China’s there’s enough fish really to Sinovac – many of them donated. quarrel about,” Duterte said. The jabs have underpinned “But when we start to mine, the country’s inoculation efforts when we start to get whatever it is as it waits for the delivery of in the bowels of the China sea, vaccines from the West. – AFP theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 7 * NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS

CHAD PRESIDENT DIES ‘ON BATTLEFIELD’ N’DJAMENA: Chad’s President Scores on New Delhi-HK Idriss Deby Itno died yesterday

BRIEFSfrom wounds sustained in battle, the army said. The news came only a day after the 68-year-old career military man was proclaimed the winner of a flight test positive for Covid presidential election that had given him a sixth term in office. The Vistara aircraft can hold 188 against all travel to India because of The army said Deby had been oIndia’s crematoriums buckle passengers but Hong Kong the Covid-19 crisis. commanding his forces at the authorities did not announce how The brutal wave sweeping India weekend as they battled rebels many it had been carrying. has dramatically increased the who had launched a major as coronavirus dead pile up The positive coronavirus results workload for crematoriums and incursion into northern Chad. Deby “breathed his last breath surfaced while the arrivals were gravediggers, with social media and defending the sovereign nation HONG KONG: At least 53 Authorities have now imposed a undergoing Hong Kong’s newspapers flooded with horrifying on the battlefield”, said army passengers on a flight from New two-week ban on all flights from mandatory three-week quarantine images of row upon row of burning spokesman General Azem Delhi to Hong Kong have tested India, Pakistan and the Philippines period, one of the strictest entry pyres. Bermandoa Agouna. A military positive for coronavirus, authorities that began on Monday, categorising regimes in the world. The chimney of one electric council led by the late president’s said yesterday, as the financial hub the countries as “extremely high All travellers flying into the furnace in the western city of son Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, introduced an emergency ban on risk” after detecting the N501Y territory from 25 places deemed Ahmedabad cracked and collapsed 37, would replace him. – AFP arrivals from India over a new wave mutant Covid-19 strain for the first high risk including Britain, South after being in constant use for up to of cases. time in the local community. Africa, India, Pakistan and the 20 hours a day for the past two DOCTORS DENIED The passengers flew into Hong India is battling skyrocketing United States must also provide a weeks. Kong on a flight run by Indian infections, with hospitals running negative test within the 72 hours And the iron frames inside ACCESS TO NAVALNY operator Vistara on April 4. out of beds and the government prior to departure. another in Surat melted because MOSCOW: Alexei Navalny’s The positive tests are significant forced to reimpose economically Several coronavirus cases have there was no time to let the furnaces doctors were again denied as Hong Kong is regularly recording painful restrictions. also been detected on flights cool. access yesterday to the jailed Kremlin critic despite growing fewer daily cases than the total Its capital New Delhi went into arriving in Hong Kong from At a cemetary in New Delhi, concern over his failing health. A detected on the flight since it lockdown from Monday night as Mumbai, authorities said. gravedigger Shamim told AFP: “At team of medics has been brought a fourth wave under control officials scramble to get the surging The US Centres for Disease this rate, I will run out of space in attempting to see the 44-year- in January. cases under control. Control on Monday also advised three or four days.”– AFP old since early this month, after President Vladimir Putin’s most outspoken opponent launched a hunger strike on March 31 demanding proper medical treatment for a litany of ailments. Russia’s prison service said on Monday that he had been moved from his penal colony in the Vladimir region 100km east of Moscow to a medical facility at another colony in the same region. A team of physicians travelled early yesterday to the new colony and was once again barred from seeing him. – AFP

CAPE TOWN BLAZE ALMOST CONTAINED PRETORIA: A sweeping fire on South Africa’s iconic Table Migrant workers Mountain that choked Cape arriving at a bus Town with smoke and destroyed station in several historic sites including a Ghaziabad on university library was almost fully the outskirts of contained yesterday, officials said. High winds had the Indian strengthened the blaze that was capital yesterday first spotted on Sunday but to board buses calmer weather conditions to return to their yesterday allowed for fire crews villages after to ramp up their aerial attack Delhi with five helicopters, said Rey government Thakhuli, spokesman for South ordered a Africa National Parks. six-day “Approximately 90% of the fire has been contained,” he said in a lockdown to statement to AFP. At least 600ha limit the spread of land were charred, according of the virus. to the parks agency. – AFP – REUTERSPIX Thailand says has enough hospital space BANGKOK: Thai health authorities in infections in many countries, New Zealand confirms airport virus case yesterday assured the public there including the Philippines, where WELLINGTON: New Zealand “We accept there will be cases them, and tracing their contacts and were sufficient hospital beds for the hospitals are struggling. authorities revealed an Auckland and that is part of our journey movements is under way”. rising number of coronavirus patients, Of the more than 15,000 Thai cases airport worker had tested positive together, for both sides,” she told In Australia, Health Minister amid a new wave of infections this this month, 223 have severe for Covid-19 yesterday, although reporters. Greg Hunt said the government had month that has spread fast across the symptoms and 55 of those were using Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Ardern played down concerns “full confidence” in New Zealand’s country. ventilators, said Taweesin it would not affect a newly opened the cleaner contracted the virus ability to contain small outbreaks of Thailand’s policy of hospitalising Wisanuyothin, a spokesman for the travel bubble with Australia. despite being fully vaccinated, Covid-19. all those who test positive for government’s Covid-19 taskforce. Confirmation the cleaner at New pointing out the Pfizer jab used in “The New Zealand system has Covid-19, even those without The Health Ministry has asked all Zealand’s largest airport had New Zealand was 95% effective in picked up a case and we know that symptoms, has prompted concern hospitals to increase by 50% or double contracted the virus came barely 24 reducing symptomatic onset of we have a highly infectious disease, about its capacity in the event of a their intensive care capacity to hours after the transport hub hosted coronavirus. but highly developed containment surge in the number of patients with prepare for a possible rise in more joyful scenes as families reunited She said that meant some people systems in both New Zealand and severe symptoms. severe cases. following the launch of the could still become infected but Australia.” Authorities reported 1,443 new There are currently more than quarantine-free bubble. would experience milder symptoms The bubble, which followed coronavirus cases and four new 9,000 hospital beds available Ardern said the cleaner worked than those who had not received the months of negotiations between the deaths yesterday, bringing total nationwide, up from 7,000 last week, on planes arriving from “red zone” vaccine. largely coronavirus-free neighbours, infections to 45,185 with 108 fatalities officials said. countries deemed high risk, not “We entirely expect that people allowed their borders to reopen to overall. Thailand has been credited Thailand saw record cases on most Australia, which like New Zealand who are vaccinated will get each other after almost 400 days. for its swift containment of earlier days last week. has largely contained the virus. Covid-19, it just means they won’t It means that for the first time outbreaks, but has yet to start mass Authorities are also drawing up a She said both Australia and New get sick and they won’t die.” since Covid-19 closed borders vaccinations. plan to allow patients with less serious Zealand expected to handle border New Zealand health department worldwide, passengers can fly The current wave includes the symptoms to self-quarantine at home, cases, and had systems in place to released few details about the case, between Australia and New Zealand highly transmissible B.1.1.7 variant, but said this would not be do that without closing the saying “the usual protocol of without undergoing mandatory which has been blamed for big jumps implemented immediately. – Reuters long-awaited travel bubble. isolating the case, interviewing quarantine on arrival. – AFP 8 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 SPEAK UP RUKUN NEGARA: THE PRINCIPLES THE OBJECTIVES BELIEF THE SUPREMACY OF TO achieve greater unity TO maintain a TO create a just society in which IN GOD THE CONSTITUTION among Malaysians democratic way of life the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared LOYALTY TO KING THE RULE COURTESY AND TO ensure a liberal approach to her rich TO build a progressive society which shall be AND COUNTRY OF LAW MORALITY and diverse cultural traditions oriented to modern science and technology

COMMENT by Meenakshi Raman

‘Net RUKUNzero’ NEGARA: emissions THE PRINCIPLES THE OBJECTIVES an inconvenient truth BELIEF LOYALTY TO KING TO achieve greater unity TO maintain a TO create a just society in which AND COUNTRY among Malaysians democratic way of life the wealth of the nation shall be equitably shared N the internationalIN GOD climate “Far from signifying climate implications for developing countries, Global South were within their discourse,THE SUPREMACY the goal ofOF countries THE ambition, RULE the COURTESY phrase ‘net AND zero’ is TO ensure a liberal approachincluding to her in rich generating TO conflicts build a over progressive boundary society of which fair shall shares, be including embracingTHE CONSTITUTION net zero emissionsOF beingLAW used by MORALITYa majority of polluting and diverse cultural traditionsland use, as well as oriented among to local modern India science and and China technology (although China will reductions by 2050 has been governments and corporations to communities and indigenous peoples, overshoot soon). Iheralded as showing high ambition. orchestrate escape clauses so as to whose lands and forests are being Instead of focusing on what the Coming from the highest official in evade responsibility, shift burdens, sought to solve the emissions problem emission reductions ought to be from the United Nations, viz secretary- disguise climate inaction, and in some of the rich nations. a fair-share perspective in order to general António Guterres, the public cases even to scale up fossil fuel Climate justice groups have keep within the remaining carbon can be forgiven for thinking that net extraction, burning and emissions. referred to this as “carbon budget left in an equitable way, the zero emissions reductions by the The term is used to greenwash colonialism”. net-zero mantra allows developed world’s major “emitters” will save us business-as-usual or even business- Limiting temperature rise to 1.5°C countries to get away with targets from a planetary climate crisis. more-than-usual. At the core of these requires the sharing of the remaining which amount to doing too little too Nothing can be further from the pledges are small and distant targets carbon budget in an equitable late, and passes on the responsibility truth and requires deeper scrutiny as that require no action for decades, and manner. to developing countries to do the to why such net zero pledges will not promises of technologies that are Net zero is For a 50% probability of keeping heavy lifting, without commensurate be able to limit temperature rise to unlikely ever to work at scale, and warming below the limit, the carbon finance and technology transfer. 1.5°C since pre-industrial levels. which are likely to cause huge harm if indeed a budget remaining is 480 gigatonne The Paris Agreement does call for a While efforts to goad governments they come to pass,” say these climate CO2 equivalent (GtCO2eq). balance between human emissions to initiate more climate action are justice groups. mirage to At the current rate of emissions of and removal by sinks by 2050, but this laudable, net zero emission targets by Much of these net-zero pledges are 42 GtCO2 eq per year, the budget is to be on the basis of equity and in 2050 for rich countries and their not grounded in deep decarbonisation delay further would be exhausted in about 12 years! the context of sustainable corporations will not be enough as and rely heavily on nature-based With a shrinking carbon budget, the development and efforts to eradicate they are not ambitious enough. solutions (NbS) as sinks, to sequester action by the right approach ought to be one where poverty. What is needed to avert a the carbon emissions. the rich developed world takes the lead This is a global aspiration, and is permanent catastrophe is urgent and Much of them rely on carbon- rich nations in much deeper cuts in their emissions not a country-wise aim. It cannot be rapid action on the part of rich markets to deliver carbon offsets based on a fair-share approach, that country-wise, as this would lead to developed countries to get to “real mainly in developing countries. What most takes into account their historical and inequity. zero” emissions now and not “net offsetting means is for developed current cumulative emissions, The fallacy of net-zero emissions zero”, as this delays action for another countries not to reduce their responsible for including on a per capita basis. needs to be exposed for what it is. It is three decades! This delay, the planet emissions domestically, but to pay Such equity-based proposals never no panacea in solving the climate cannot afford. developing countries to do the the crisis in the saw the light of day, due to crisis. In recent months, some northern emissions reductions, as it is seen as tremendous resistance from The rich North cannot run away governments and several big being more “cost-effective” to buy the developed countries, especially from from what they must do today, which corporations, including major fossil carbon credits to offset the emissions first place the US, on the grounds that no is to go to real zero and assist fuel companies have announced net- generated in the developed world. international agreement can dictate a developing countries to do their fair- zero targets. With or without carbon offsetting, top-down approach to emissions shares, through the finance and Analyses by major civil society such pledges create a huge demand reductions for countries. technology transfer needed, as well as groups, including ActionAid for sinks mainly located in the forests, In fact, analyses by serious to build their capacities so that they do International, Friends of the Earth wetlands and grasslands in academics and progressive civil society not repeat the mistakes of the North. International and Third World developing countries. groups have pointed out that rich Net zero is indeed a mirage to delay Network, have shown that such net- There is no known published countries are not doing enough at all. further action by the rich nations most zero announcements are research yet that add up the quantities For instance, one recent analysis responsible for the crisis in the first unambitious, do not go far enough of carbon removal which make up the “rooted in the principle of equal per place. The sooner we realise this, the and even dubious for some. net-zero pledges of these countries capita access to atmospheric better, for the sake of the planet and These pledges have been viewed as and corporations. commons” by Dr Jason Hickel from the poor. not being enough in terms of what What seems clear though is that the the University of London reported in should be the fair and equitable effort quantity of sinks needed would The Lancet, pointed out that as of 2015 Meenakshi Raman is president of needed by rich countries, within a exceed the sequestration capacity of the Global North was responsible for Sahabat Alam Malaysia. shrinking carbon budget to limit the planet by several fold. 92% of excess emissions. Comments: [email protected] temperature rise to 1.5°C. This will have negative By contrast, most countries in the

LETTERS [email protected] Why destroy a 122-year-old educational legacy? 90-year-old thanks govt THE Convent Bukit Nanas (CBN) all- learning. Why? Why destroy a school nestled in an for aid during pandemic girls school, which clocked 122 years of To even let the school that was built enclave of greenery, rolling hills existence, is now being forced to go to in 1899 be forced into taking the punctuated with two other legendary MY 90-year-old father has from In fact, my father has since court to save one of the country’s oldest painful, arduous route to seek justice schools, a cathedral and the seat of the day one had his reservations become a spokesman for his school. through the courts raises numerous Catholic Church? about getting the Covid-19 group of old friends and has been What has come of this nation’s ethical and value-centric questions. Are we so blinded that we cannot vaccine after hearing all kinds of sharing his experience with them. penchant and obsession for new and Where is our conscience? And we see and acknowledge the glorious stories from his friends. The reason I am writing this is commercial developments? cannot blame concerned citizens from perspective of the segment of Bukit He was determined not to take actually to convey his thanks to Do we not value history? Is there no even asking, is there a hidden agenda Nanas? the vaccine, but at last agreed the prime minister and the more obligation towards thriving on at work? And once you buldozz the convent after much persuasion from all government for looking after the proven legacies? Do we not respect and The esteemed Society of Saint Maur what is stopping the demolition of the his children and grandchildren. welfare of the elderly. cherish legendary institutions like CBN that governs the well-known convent other two schools under the claims of Yesterday, we took him for his He cannot write well in that is iconic and has continued to play definitely does not deserve such progress and development? first dose of vaccination in English, but wanted to personally formative roles in educating punishment. In a climate where we face Penang. He was terribly nervous convey his gratitude and Malaysians? The various Lady Superiors who numerous challenges with our and was still a little apprehensive appreciation. We are talking about a school that served without salary or material gains education why can the authorities not about it. Apart from the Covid-19 successfully produced many of our nor vested earthly interest for more learn to treasure the great When we reached the vaccine, my family also benefited country’s women leaders and than a century, providing effective achievements of this precious CBN vaccination centre, I must say I from the aid offered by the professionals who went to walk the talk leadership, definitely should be convent and let it continue its was impressed. The staff were government to assist small in their respective callings, bearing revered, encouraged and given all the contribution to nation building? very professional and took time to industries. testimony to the values instilled in support to continue leading this To forcefully subject the school to talk to my father and answer all Despite all the criticisms and them by this convent. established hallway of learning. ultimately challenge the government’s his questions. negative comments, my family We can preserve pre-war Any amount of justification veiled decision not to renew the school’s land After speaking to the staff on and I are grateful to the present commercial blocks at huge costs and behind claims of development and lease, which is due to expire on Sept 6 duty at the centre, my father felt government for all their turn them into thriving eateries and progress or a seeming claim of wanting will be yet another major dent on the much better and proceeded to get assistance during these trying businesses but we do not seem to be to cater to the well-being of Kuala country’s reputation. his jab. times. able to stop greedy developers from Lumpur’s choking population cannot He later told us that he felt land grabs that can bulldoze the hide our lack of integrity as well as the J. D. Lovrenciear nothing at all and till today, feels M. Sivaraman Kandiah pride and glory of institutions of grossly misplaced foresight. Kuala Lumpur no side effects whatsoever. Penang PICTURE COURTESY OF VOXSCAPEMY dream dream Living Living Singer-songwriter Eleena Harris Singer-songwriter Eleena Harris reflects on her journey in the reflects on her journey in the local music scene local music scene >>>Page 3 >>>Page 3 her her

LIFESTYLE YOUTH FASHION ENTERTAINMENT WEDNESDAY | | APRIL APRIL 21, 21, 2021 2021 blocks of happiness Izza offers timeless collections share their Raya 7 designer brands TELLING IT AS IT IS >>> Page 4&5 >>> Page 7 ENTERTAINMENT 2 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021

Like any employee, Melisa has gone In the name of equality through periods of burnout due to her job oNews anchor and editor and the gravity of news that she covers. – Melisa Idris speaks about PICTURES COURTESY OF MELISA IDRIS The Future is Female

█ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR

ANTING Despite the to feature different ambitious mediums, w o m e n Melisa Wwho were working to believes make a difference in working in their chosen fields TV is not and industries, that Astro AWANI dissimilar to senior editor working in Melisa Melina radio. I d r i s conceptualised the network’s The her by other women. “One of the ways (the show) hopes to Future is Female in “I love that this show is built on women contribute to achieving true gender equality is 2019, that has now lifting other women”. in increasing the frequency in which we see a returned after a brief woman on our TV screens being asked about hiatus. A step in a different direction herself, her accomplishments, struggles and Melisa said she has Despite her long tenure in journalism, it was not opinions,” Melisa said, adding that research noticed that despite how something Melisa initially pursued. done in 2015 showed that just 24% of news well women advocate “I was very single-minded about studying sources (people seen, heard or read about in the issues and raise other economics at university, it was the only course I news media) were women. women, they are oddly uncomfortable with applied for. I’d fallen in love with the subject, “A show like The Future is Female, which doing the same when it comes to their own from the very first lesson I had in Form 4. I almost entirely features women, helps to accomplishments. found it fascinating. It’s a discipline that amplify women’s voices and gender “I think gender roles play a part in the combines behavioural psychology, politics, representation, and I truly believe small wins lack of self-advocacy in women compared history and math, with a real-world like that can make a big impact on gender to men. We worry about being judged as application,” she explained. equality”. ‘arrogant’ or ‘bragging’, so many of us rely on Further along her studies, Melisa said with Looking at the diverse series of women who letting the work speak for itself. But when we better understanding of markets and have been on the show, there is truth in what women don’t actively advocate to make our economies, came a sense of growing frustration Melisa said, as The Future is Female has seen work more visible, our voices are lost,” she towards economic inequality and social topics and guests ranging from women in added. injustice that stemmed from what she read. cancer research to women in bartending. This is something she seeks to address “That, quite naturally I think, led me to the “I believe every woman has an extraordinary through The Future is Female, which turns two doorstep of journalism”. story to tell, even in the most seemingly next month. ‘ordinary’ acts. I would say my only criteria for The show receives a lot of guest Perpetual battle the show is that my guest is passionate about nominations, but Melisa pointed out that Rooted in female empowerment, The Future is making a positive social impact. I’m hoping the almost all the guests who have been on the Female is expected to accelerate the process show can eventually feature every woman and show were recommended and introduced to towards gender equality. help make her story more visible”. Paul Pogba featuring in new documentary POGBAMANIA is set to arrive on of the remarkable moments from the Fans eager to watch the new Prime Video. The Amazon journey that led him to be one of the series on Amazon Prime Video will streaming platform has just greatest footballers of his have to remain patient. The announced a forthcoming generation. documentary, which will be documentary series on the French “Paul Pogba is one of the most available in the US and the rest of the footballer. The Pogmentary promises prominent talents of his time, so we world, will not be streamed until to reveal hidden facets of the world are thrilled to be collaborating with 2022. champion. However, Paul Pogba him with an overall deal and his Paul Pogba is not the first football (pix) enthusiasts will have be series The Pogmentary,” said the idol to feature in his own patient, the unprecedented head of European Originals for documentary series on Amazon immersion in the life of the Amazon Studios, Georgia Brown. Prime Video. In 2019, the streaming Manchester United player is not She further added: “We all know platform released Raphael Varane : about to drop before 2022. Paul for what he can do on a football Destin de Champion, which was In The Pogmentary, the pitch, but his influence reaches devoted to the French national team platform’s subscribers will discover much further and he is without defender. More recently, Amazon Benigni is known for his irreverent, clownish antics. the story of Paul Pogba’s childhood doubt an icon for an entire Studios announced a new from previously unreleased footage generation. Through the documentary series on Serena and conversations with his family unprecedented access afforded to Williams. The documentary on the Italy’s Benigni to receive Venice and friends. The documentary will us, Prime Video will show the man life and career of the tennis also show the Manchester United behind the fame, delving into his life champion, which has yet to be given cinema career award player’s life, passions and off the pitch and letting him tell his a title, is currently in production. – accomplishments along with some story in his own words.” ETX Studio ITALIAN actor and director the passionate joyfulness that is Roberto Benigni, who won an perhaps the most original Oscar for Life is Beautiful, will be hallmark of his opus”. honoured with a career award at As well as starring in and this year’s Venice Film Festival, directing Life is Beautiful, a organisers said Thursday. Holocaust tragi-comedy which Known for his irreverent, won Oscars for best actor, best clownish antics, but also for his musical score and best foreign public readings of Dante’s Divine language film in 1999, Benigni Comedy, the 68-year-old Tuscan is worked with several cinema big- one of Italy’s most popular film hitters. stars. These include directors He has directed nine movies Federico Fellini, Woody Allen, and acted in dozens more. Blake Edwards, and Bernardo “My heart is full of joy and Bertolucci. His wife, the actress gratitude. It is an immense Honor Nicoletta Braschi, has been the to receive such an important female lead in all his movies since recognition of my work,” Benigni 1987. said in a statement released by the The Venice Film Festival is one Venice festival. of the most prestigious in the Festival director Alberto world, rivalling with Cannes and Barbera paid tribute to Benigni’s Berlin, and the oldest. Its 78th “exuberance and impetuosity, his edition is scheduled for Sept 1-11, generous way with the public, and 2021. – ETX Studio ENTERTAINMENT theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 3 Living her dream How would you describe your songwriting oSinger-songwriter Eleena process? I prefer to start with the melody. Humming and Harris reflects on her journey strumming the guitar randomly until I get some nice melodies. Then I will record it on my in the local music scene phone. Once I have the melody, I will think of a flexible storyline or mood for the song. Sometimes, it starts as a sad song but ends █ BY JOHN TAN up as a cheeky one. I have also written ROWING up in a household of s o n g s musicians, the art of playing music based on comes as second nature to Eleena movies I Harris. By the time she turned 14, she h a v e Ghad already taught herself to play the piano and compose her own music. “It was just something natural to do. And I think it is because of my mother’s side of the family, who is very music orientated. Whenever we have gatherings, we would always end up singing and playing the guitar. I guess it is clear to say that it is in our genes!” said the newlywed songstress. This gift for music motivated her to participate in various school performances and local competitions. One of which was HELP University’s Finding Amazing Talents, where she won first place with her original song Terlalu Rindu, which she sang in English. “I won a contract with Mixology Music, which released my debut album. That was how my career started in the Eleena scored a contract with Mixology Music after winning a singing competition in early music industry.” Aside from her 2014. – PHOTO COURTESY OF VOXSCAPEMY music, Eleena has also been keeping herself busy with her seen and current situations in except my friends. He is my backbone and my new online food business, my life. That makes the true supporter. We help each other achieve our Terlalu Sedap. songwriting process a little goals. We are so used to doing things together. easier. Only now, we live under the same roof and I How was Terlalu Rindu have to cook for him. produced? What was your favourite It was a very long but reaction to your music? Any new music in the works? worthwhile process. The I honestly did not expect I just bought a new mic and I am in the midst of first step was translating my music to go public, setting up my own home studio. You guys can its lyrics to Malay. That especially on radio. It was expect more covers and surely more original was done by Al-Abbas a blessing to see people songs. Stay tuned. and Muariffah and then enjoying my music. But producer DJ Fuzz. He there are still a lot more to What are your plans for the future? added a little spice that achieve, many more For now, I am focused on expanding my online made it the song it is artistes to collaborate with. business, Terlalu Sedap, online and physically. I today. After the song It would be amazing if I started it last year and we are already seeing was released, I was could release more many regular customers this year. I also have a surprised by the feedback. English songs. new project, Online Menu, that was created to It was overwhelming for help SME companies. It is a system to reduce me dealing with the How has married life been paper and also a way to prevent the spread sudden attention. Some for you? of Covid-19. As for my music, I am working to hated the song but ended Great! I had been dating my grow my music on YouTube and plan up singing it because it was husband since I started in the to collaborate with local and international catchy. industry. But I never told anyone artistes. Oscar-nominated songs to be performed from LA museum and Iceland THE five songs nominated at this This year’s Oscars are following an year’s Oscars will be performed from “awards-show-as-a-movie” theme, the top of the Academy’s gleaming and will primarily be held, with social new film museum – and a tiny fishing distancing de rigueur, at Union town in Iceland – as producers aim to Station in downtown Los Angeles. shake up the format of the pandemic- Harrison Ford, Brad Pitt and hit ceremony. Reese Witherspoon are among the A- Hamilton star Leslie Odom Jr will list lineup of presenters, marking the be among those performing from the first time Tinseltown’s biggest names roof terrace of Los Angeles’ still- will gather on the red carpet since last unopened Academy Museum of spring. Motion Pictures, which has been in Venues in Britain and France will development for years but, like the also be set up for international Oscars, saw its launch delayed due to nominees unable to travel to Los Covid-19. Angeles. His song Speak Now from civil Musical pre-show Oscars: Into the rights drama One Night in Miami will Spotlight will also feature form part of a special Oscars pre- performances from multiple show – as will the ballad Husavik Grammy winner H.E.R. and 12-time Odom Jr will from the Will Ferrell comedy Oscar song nominee Diane Warren, be among Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of who have nods this year for “Judas those Fire Saga, performed from the and the Black Messiah” and “The Life performing Icelandic port of the same name. Ahead,“ respectively. from the roof “We’ve come up with some Producers also announced a post- terrace of Los serious pre-game and post-game show dubbed Oscars: After Dark, Angeles’ still- action to enhance our main event,” which will feature the night’s big unopened Oscar-winning director Steven winners having their golden Academy Soderbergh and his fellow gala co- statuettes engraved, along with star Museum of producers said in a statement Friday. interviews. Motion “Our suggestion is just tune in for The 93rd Academy Awards take Pictures. the whole shebang, otherwise you’ll place on April 25, while the group’s miss something really unexpected museum will open on Sept 30. – ETX and fun.” Studio FASHION 4 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021

█ BY JASON LIM Ezzati ARI RAYA AIDILFITRI may Amira. be pared-down this year but dressing up for the festivity will certainly enliven the Hcelebration with much fun and excitement to keep you in the mood. Choose among traditional clothing and contemporary ensembles, then switch from breezy daytime separates when at home to dressy evening wear for formal affairs – there is something for everyone and all occasions.

1. Ezzati Amira When designer Ezzati Amira discovered a photograph of her great grandmother draped in an easy-fitting kebaya with a lace shawl, she could feel the movement of the garment and with it, a sense of air and light. This became the inspiration of not just the brand’s Raya 2021 collection and also serves as the embodiment of the new Ezzati Amira woman. Ezzati reimagines modern baju kurung with her signature design elements in soft fabrics to make light silhouettes appear even more graceful and delicate, in memory of her great grandmother. Floral prints in neutral colourways evoke tranquillity, while the other plain dresses that echo sublime elegance are elevated with hints of pearl embellishments.

2. Hanya This festive season, Hanya co-founder Tan Veen Dee collaborated with bridal designer Fuzana Mokhtaza to release their Raya collection, aptly dubbed Lucid Dreams, inspired by the sentiment to distinguish the current global bad dream from reality. The creative duo combined their styles and imagination, turning dreams into reality through Hanya’s minimalistic charm and Fuzana’s graceful flair. The collection of baju kurung crafted in glistening dreamlike fabrics are softened with feminine touches, from laced and pleated necklines to puffed and ribboned sleeves with Flaunt your style subtle embellishments – it’s all in the details. oHari Raya would not be complete without local designer brands to gear us up

3. Khoon Hooi In classic Khoon Hooi fashion, the kebaya in his Raya bespoke collection features the body-hugging kebaya 4. FERN pigment and symbolism to evoke a eponymous designer rekindles the filled with a sumptuous mixed of Nyonya and relaxed fit kurung Celebrating Raya this year with sense of awe. artistry and beauty of the traditional colours and prints to add a adorned with lace embroideries, delicate petals and vibrant colours of Signature jungle orchids are contemporary spirit to traditional diamante brooches and crochet orchids is local batik brand FERN. reimagined in whimsical and dressing. medallions. Designer Fern Chua created a festive contrasting colours on kaftans, baju Among the 10-piece collection Elsewhere in the capsule collection collection that is meaningful and while kebayas and kurungs, then elevated decked in floral brocade, lace and fil still being in one’s element, she with soft ruffles, structured pleats, coupe jacquard, Orientalism meets designed the pieces to be elegant and classic cuts and exaggerated sleeves traditional Malay clothing by way of a versatile enough for any occasion. for a contemporary makeover. kebaya-kimono hybrid and through Titled The Orchid Series, the the incorporation of mandarin band collection encapsulates the allure of 5. Alia Bastamam collars and jade buttons. fresh blooms in their structure, This year’s Raya will be unlike any

FERN.

Alia Bastamam FASHION theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 5

Hanya. Secondhand is increasingly an obvious choice for Gen-Z consumers in the US

The secondhand market, notably in the US, is attracting more and more teenage consumers.

IN recent months, enthusiasm for sportswear- environmentally conscious and inspired looks. Three of the top-5 politically committed members brands favoured by American of Gen-Z, who are quite happy teens have very clear links to with the principle of sport: Nike (27%), Lululemon secondhand, having been buying (4%) and adidas (4%). This trend and selling more and more used is even more pronounced when goods in the US. The global it comes to shoe brands with market for secondhand items Nike (56%), Vans (12%), adidas Bellapizo. could well enjoy explosive (9%), Converse (6%), and Foot growth in view of its popularity Locker (2%) all highly placed in with this highly influential age the footwear ranking. 6. Bellapizo 7. Anaabu group, which contributes an Another noteworthy Inspired by the beauty of the morning Founder Ana Abu transposes the annual 830 billion dollars to phenomenon is this generation’s sun, co-founders Ayenn Jamal and mellow and meaningful emotions retail sales in the USA. penchant for 1990s fashions, other for Alia Bastamam as the Sheila Salleh remind us that life is a experienced during Eid from the Although they are keen to which, as Piper Sandler has designer celebrates the brand’s 10th cycle, for after day there is night, and past to the brand’s Eid 2021 support the preservation of the reported, has resulted in anniversary. “In commemoration, I’ve after darkness there is light. collection Rindu. environment on social networks, booming sales for certain pieces revived some of my signature designs The brand’s Lebaran 2021 collection The 25-piece collection revisits are teenagers really ready to identified with that decade, from over the past decade,” she said. Matahari Pagi celebrates the bright side some of her memories through the demonstrate their commitment notably flannel shirts, baggy She revived 14 designs from the during troubled times in the theme of earthy colour palettes reminiscent to the cause when acting as pants, and mom jeans. past with five new looks in her Eid 2021 wildflowers, for their nature of being of nostalgic moments in a village consumers? The question is not collection featuring formal ensembles tiny yet blossoming through the and traditional Malay garments as an easy one, giving the difficulty Teen spending on skincare and casual wear in various soft and wilderness and reaching out for homage to the elderly. of analyzing such a complex overtakes makeup streamlined silhouettes. sunlight. Each piece is designed to generation, as Eric Briones, co- Say goodbye to makeup, the Pieces such as tunic, pantsuit and Lilies, daffodils, edelweiss and reflect versatility and functionality founder of the Paris School of health crisis has completely kaftan exude an air of quiet dandelions are scattered on the baju – clean silhouettes with minimal Luxury and the author of the overturned the beauty habits of confidence, while their beadwork kurungs, kebayas and kimonos’ modern adornment are light as air, stripes book “Le choc Z” pointed out in this generation, which now has a embellishment and lace carefully and loose silhouettes, featuring bishop and plaids become the central March. Now a new Piper Sandler growing interest in skincare. dotted with sparkles and pearls ooze a sleeves, puffed shoulders, floral pattern of the festive season and study of 7,000 Americans with an “Spending on skincare products sense of sophistication. embroideries and pearl buttons. beyond. average age of 16.1 years has for women has overtaken revealed that buying spending on makeup,” reveals secondhand is becoming the survey. An interesting aspect “second nature” for Gen-Z teens. of this change is that teenagers Among the those questioned are increasingly turning to online Anaabu. by the Spring 21 survey, no less influencers when seeking than 47% had already bought information on current trends and 55% had already sold and new beauty brands (86%). secondhand goods. Not Dermatologist- surprisingly then, the survey also recommended products are very notes that teenagers conduct 8% much in vogue with Gen-Z, a fact of their purchasing on the reflected in the ranking of the secondhand market. Another agegroup’s favorite brands: important development is the CeraVe (35%), Cetaphil (10%), Khoon Hooi. growing popularity of thrift Neutrogena (8%), The Ordinary stores and secondhand outlets, (7%), and Curology (3%). which were placed 10th in the ranking of preferred brands and A committed and socially retailers for this generation, as aware generation opposed 23rd in a previous As everyone knows, teenagers iteration of the study last year. are keen to rally in support of a However, the study does not wide variety of causes on social explain why teenagers are buying networks. This has been more secondhand goods. Price confirmed by the survey which could be the main motivating ranks racial equality (20%), the factor - more than commitment environment (12%), the Black to the environment - especially Lives Matter movement (6%), when you consider that Amazon and the coronavirus (5%) high on remains the online shopping site the list of Gen-Z’s societal most commonly cited by young concerns. Americans (56%), ahead of Shein Piper Sandler Companies (7%), Nike (5%), and PacSun conducted this 41st semi-annual (3%). “Taking Stock With Teens” survey, in partnership with A definite taste for sportswear DECA. The survey questioned and 1990s fashions 7,000 teenage respondents with Times may be changing, but the an average age of 16.1 years in 47 members of Gen-Z are U.S. states between February 19 remarkably constant in their and March 24. – ETX Studio TECH 6 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021

█ BY AZIZUL RAHMAN ISMAIL schedule as in, if you sleep late, a little early or later, adjust your schedule accordingly HE pandemic forced a without losing sleeping hours. And the fundamental change upon the discipline to stick to it, of course. world. In response, most of humanity changed the way they When counting Wind down to music Tlived in solidarity. One of the best ways to fall asleep at a We started juggling our responsibilities, consistent time is to create a routine, and from working at home to homeschooling, one of the best ways to relax is to listen to all in the hope of saving lives and curbing music. If you have “active noise cancelling the spread of Covid-19 infections. over the ear” headphones like an Airpods With sudden changes comes stress and sheep does not work Max or earbuds, even better. anxiety, and with hardships comes stress- Open your favourite music streaming related insomnia, compounded by social oUsing technology you own to relax and deal with service and search for music for relaxation and economic effects of the pandemic. and sleep. The playlist will differ from Being stuck indoors, working from stress-induced insomnia service to service. For example, on Apple home and isolation changes us and our Music, it will be something like Sleep sleep cycles. The lack of sleep, in turn, Sounds, Piano Chill, Bedroom Beats, In My harms our health causing such as like any good habit, it takes consistency to There are usage of the phone in different ways. Room or Pure Focus. worsening cardiovascular and metabolic develop. ways you can Downtime limits you to select apps and Then lay back, close your eyes and float issues, including increased risk of weight Small changes like setting a Downtime use smart phone calls while the Sleep Schedule will away. Be mindful of your preferences gain, diabetes and high blood pressure. on your Screen Time setting or a Sleep devices to put your device in a “do not disturb” mode. though. Some folks prefer acoustic music, “If I’m tired, I’m going to be less likely to Schedule in your Health app can not only help as well But do not worry, important messages and without the lyrics to relax. exercise and I’m going to be less likely to do remind but enforce your desired sleeping phone calls will still go through. things that actually enhance my mood. And schedule. Both settings will limit your The key here is to be flexible with your What if you wake up or cannot go back to it compounds those other anxieties and sleep? stressors – and even depression – that If you find yourself laying in bed, unable to people might already be experiencing,” said sleep or go back to sleep, do not fret or force sleep psychologist Michelle Drerup in an it. Get out of bed and do something else. interview with CleavelandClinic.org. The key is to do something relaxing, like Of course, there are steps that can be stretching or reading a book or building a taken to regain your sanity and have a plastic kit. But whatever it is, do not do it in normal sleep, and there are ways you can bed or if possible, in the same room. And use smart devices to help as well. avoid screens. Give yourself some time before trying to go back to sleep. Stop doomscrolling To paraphrase a particular reverse talking Apps for all wrinkly Muppet: Doomscrolling leads to There is a plethora of apps, each promising fear, fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, results. Here is a shortlist of a few you can hate leads to stress and stress leads to try based on what you want to do. insomnia. For apps that focus on getting better Doomscrolling is defined as consuming sleep, there is SLEEP by Max Richter and large quantities of negative online news. Endel. However, if scrolling through social media Need to track and monitor your sleep? A adds to your anxiety, include that in your smart wearable helps. You can then pair it definition as well. Avoid these especially in with Autosleep, Sleeptown or Snorelab to the evenings. see how well you slept. Go to the settings on your smartphone Changing the mood through and look for Screen Time. It differs from meditation, mindfulness and ambient maker to maker but on iOS, this feature lets sounds help. For that try Headspace: you see and limit your app usage, and even Meditation & Sleep, Calm; Relax Melodies: let syour devices share your Screen Time Sleep Sounds; or Breethe: Meditation & data so you cannot cheat and doomscroll Sleep. on a tablet instead. To build a good sleeping habit, try Fabulous – Daily Self Care or Mindvalley – Be consistent Learn and Evolve, a Malaysian-developed Keeping a sleeping schedule is difficult but app.

when typewriter makers started using it. lacks the basics, such as proper finger The demand for typewriters and skilled placement. What it has instead is a practice Mastering touch typing individuals solidified QWERTY as the algorithm that can infinitely generate a █ BY AZIZUL RAHMAN ISMAIL a few things you should know to get default keyboard layout. random string of practice letters based on started. English words according to your skill THE ability to quickly and accurately type Taking the first taps level. on a keyboard used to be an asset, The QWERTY keyboard Interested in learning touch typing? Here Its usage of an English word structure for especially in certain professions. But now, This keyboard layout gets its name from the are some online sites to help you develop practice instead of key placement gives when more and more people use the first six letters in the top row of keys. It is so your skill. keybr.com an edge. Charts, graphs and data keyboard, the skill seems to have fallen out ubiquitous that it even appears in places TypingClub.com offers a structured let you check your progress after each of favour. And yet, knowing how to touch such as the screen keypad on a lesson. It starts off like any other typing practice session. type would give anyone, from a student to a smartphone. lesson website, with fun videos and games You can further tune the practice professional, a better edge. There are many theories on why peppered throughout. Also like other sites, a algorithm to your liking or to your skill level Being able to let words flow from the usage of this keyboard layout is free account is needed to save progress. by adding elements such as lengthening the thoughts to fingers to keyboard and having so widespread. Some say it was designed to TypingClub.com is recommended as it practice generated or by using capital it appear on a screen can be a magical prevent the typewriter key strike bars has a simple interface, wide range of lessons letters. experience. Imagine, having the ability to from getting stuck together when typing that goes beyond basic typing, and it has a sit in front of a keyboard and putting words fast. rigid lesson structure. Keyboard into a post, email, essay, novel, We know two things. If you are overwhelmed by its various Having problems upgrading your skills? programming language, journal, chat or First, the QWERTY keyboard layout offers, you can start with the default “Typing Maybe you need to find the right keyboard. whatever application, effortlessly and with was developed for the typewriter Jungle” lesson plan. For a quicker lesson, Once you have developed your skills, it is speed. in the early 1870s by Christopher you can choose the “Typing Basics” course. recommended you get the best equipment It is never too late or too early to Latham Sholes and he filed a patent for it in There is even a course on how to become a to practise on. learn touch typing to develop the skill 1876. responsible internet citizen designed as a Here are a few pointers for beginners of being a fast and precise typist. Here are Second, it became the standard layout typing practice module. when choosing a suitable keyboard. Another site you can try is Typing.com. The goal of touch typing is to type It is never too Here, you can go straight to the level you without looking at the keyboard. So, there is late or too want. There are even lessons on digital no need for a keyboard with RGB lights. early to learn literacy and coding. Even backlighting is optional once you have touch typing. Typing.com is recommended for its mastered the skill. In other words, do not approach as it is designed to teach and spend too much on looks. encourage. It has a practice area where you Mechanical keyboards are the can pick a subject of your choice, such as fountain pens of typing. If you are English, that is designed to help you practise just starting out, look for a keyboard with routines for any keys you might have trouble Cherry MX Brown (quiet) or Cherry MX with. Blue (clicky) switches. These switches You can also set your daily practice feature tactile and audible feedback goal. that may help some people with their typing. Pick brown switches if sound is an Practise, practise, practise issue. Like any other skill, the key to mastering Get a keyboard with double shot PBT touch typing is practice. To hone your keycaps. Ever notice how the keys of the skills to the next level, you can opt for most often used letters of a keyboard turn keybr.com. shiny or illegible after some time and under Although it could be used as a starting heavy use? These keycaps are made to solve point to learn touch typing, the website that problem. FEATURE theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 7

Timeless blocks of happiness Izza says flowers oPerpetuate the memory of precious preserved inside a flower block will moments by preserving blooms from the last forever. – PHOTOS occasion COURTESY OF NUR IZZA MOHD EZANI █ BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI The flowers are arranged creatively and elegantly inside a LOWERS always make block. This style of preservation people feel better, happier seems to be a better idea than the and more helpful. They are old method of pressing the flowers sunshine, food and flat or hanging them upside down Fmedicine for the soul, according to for days to dry naturally into an method that I have explored is to “It was challenging American botanist Luther unattractive dark brown. create flower blocks by because the peony refused to Burbank. With Izza’s method, the blocks preserving flowers in epoxy bloom!” While flowers are symbols of are perfect as display or decor resin,” said 37-year-old Izza. Apart from flower blocks, Izza love and affection when given to items in homes as they bring back The process starts with drying also creates colourful coasters, loved ones, they also serve as memories of moments in life such flowers in silica beads. place cards with dried flowers. reminders of as weddings, “After they have dried, I will She also has plans to work with s p e c i a l engagements, give one or two options of flower event planners. occasions. birthdays, arrangements for my clients to “Since the Covid-19 situation Although a graduations select. Then, I will proceed to seems to be under control, I hope bouquet of or other preserve the flowers in epoxy there will be more opportunities flowers is f e s t i v e resin,“ said Izza, who works as an for me to explore and introduce lovely, it does occasions. architect. Flowerpaperwork to others. not last “Instead of The flower arrangements also “I hope I can reach out to more f o r e v e r . keeping a depend on the type of flowers. brides out there, to let them know W e d d i n g bouquet for a “Mostly, I would work with that Flowerpaperwork can help b o u q u e t s , few days until roses, carnations, hydrangeas preserve their bouquets,” said especially, it dries, why and mathiolas. I found they are Izza. will wilt not preserve easy to work with. within days. some of the “I receive a lot of red roses, Nur Izza f l o w e r s especially during Valentine’s Mohd Ezani, from the Day.” who goes by special day Many people would send just Izza, as a in their wedding bouquets, found a keepsake, or flowers from their first unique method f o r e v e r ? ” Valentine’s Day or to preserve flowers that will make said Izza, who specialises in anniversary, and request to your loved ones smile. flower art and preservation create a flower block. She turns beautiful blooms into through her business “Flower preservation and gorgeous resin-based flower Flowerpaperwork creating a flower block takes blocks, resin letters to spell out (@flowerpaperwork on two to three weeks, but the names or words and even cute Instagram). flowers preserved inside the paperweights. This new 3D flower “Flower preservation is not block will last forever.” preservation method retains the new. A potpourri contains Izza recounted a shape, texture, colours and the preserved flowers, which are somewhat humorous aesthetics of flowers in their dried initially, before turning it challenge she once faced original form. into a fragrant potpourri. The when preserving a peony. How we could soon catch up on landmark art exhibitions online THERE are some exhibitions that are exact replicas of the museums’ theVoV’s virtual are must-sees for art fans. But fear physical galleries, while others are presentation of not if you don’t manage to catch “fantastical otherworldly spaces ‘Untitled them all, a new platform will soon that couldn’t possibly exist in the (Mangbetu)’ by be reviving them online. This latest physical realm,” the platform’s Shannon Bono initiative could help generate press release explains. The and ‘Seeping Out further revenues for what is now a inaugural season on theVoV will Skybox’ by Sian struggling sector. feature exhibitions staged in the Fan, as part of Guardian art critic, Tim Adams, last 20 years in the UK, such as Sarabande’s gave a five-star review to “Ibrahim “Hurvin Anderson: reporting back”, digital exhibition Mahama: Parliament of Ghosts” “Art Now: Lisa Brice”, “Chris ‘Corpus Mentis’, when it ran at the Whitworth Art Burden at the South London curated by Hikari Gallery in Manchester in 2019. Gallery”, “Katie Paterson & JMW Yokoyama and Now the exhibition will soon be Turner: A place that exists only in Trino Verkade revived on theVoV, a new online moonlight” and “Jan Svoboda: (2021). platform launched by the charity, Against the Light”. Outset Contemporary Art Fund and the London collective, The phygital era Visualogical. “The effects of the pandemic have The digital portal recently been devastating on the cultural launched on April 19 with a 10- sector, but an increased appetite week programme of exhibitions for exploring the digital realm and live events. Outset offers new opportunities to open Contemporary Art and up the arts to truly global Visualogical have teamed up with audiences, making culture 15 of the UK’s leading museums unprecedentedly accessible. We and galleries, including Hayward believe that if harnessed flourish far beyond the pandemic. donation in a bid to raise funds for philanthropic model, inviting Gallery, Yorkshire Sculpture Park, sensitively and ethically, online Welcome to the ‘Phygital Era’ ...” the participating institutions. users to donate to support the arts, Tate, South London Gallery and experiences, and the communities said Visualogical co-founders “theVOV unlocks new streams of with funds raised being distributed Turner Contemporary. generated through them, can not Natasha Hersham and Victoria income for public arts equally between the participating Working in close collaboration only complement the physical art Westerman. organizations, helping them institutions, reinforcing the ethos with these institutions, theVoV has world but actually further enrich it, All content on theVoV will be navigate the new challenge of of unity,” explain Outset created bespoke virtual galleries leading to a cyclical, symbiotic, available free, but visitors to the monetizing digital content. Season Contemporary Art et Visualogical. for the exhibitions, some of which and sustainable ecosystem set to portal will be invited to make a One debuts a pioneering micro- – ETX Studio MEDIA & MARKETING 8 theSun LYFE ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021

Sunway Pyramid won Gold for Best Managed Property - Retail Above 10 years. Sunway Velocity Mall won Gold for Best Managed Property - Retail Below 10 years. Shared prosperity, shared burden oSunway Malls emerges as Malaysia’s best managed malls

DESPITE the challenges from the Covid-19 group are located in the affected states. pandemic, Sunway Malls reveals that the mall “Given the weak start to 2021, Sunway Malls group has been enjoying higher traffic and sales began re-strategising to deal with the recovery since the easing of restrictions from repercussions of MCO2.0. Having gained a the Lunar New Year period onwards. According significant amount of insights on behavioural to the latest March 2021 figures, both traffic and economics, behavioural psychology, travelling sales had achieved 90% and 95% normalcy pattern and spending pattern enable better respectively in comparison to the same period intervention strategies to be deployed,” said HC in March 2019. Chan, CEO of Sunway Malls & Theme Parks The success is largely attributed to the mall One focus area had been to concentrate in group’s expertise in mall property management driving returning traffic particularly capitalising across the dimensions of financial, operations, on revenge spending, deferred festive buying leasing and marketing in responding to the and pent-up demand for F&B dining. Similarly, Covid-19 crisis. Bearing recognition to that, emphasis was given to value-retailing amidst Sunway Malls recently emerged a big winner as the weak consumer sentiments and sluggish two of its malls bagged gold awards as economy. Malaysia’s best managed malls. “Due to economic uncertainties, many Sunway Pyramid won EdgeProp’s best consumers today are quick to accept value- managed property in retail category 10 years an retailing and have a strong tendency to be above, whilst Sunway Velocity Mall won best attracted to rewards that give them more value. managed property in retail category below 10 We saw the upward trajectory of our tenant years. sales since we ran value-retailing campaigns As a group, Sunway is a triple gold winner and we double up the effort, resulting in higher (from left) Sunway Velocity Mall GM Phang Sau Lian, Sunway Malls & Theme Parks CEO HC Chan and with Sunway Geo Tower also recognised as a recovery of tenant sales and traffic,” added Sunway Pyramid GM Jason Chin with their Best Managed and Sustainable Property Awards. best managed property in Malaysia. The office Chan. building won gold in the single-owned office in Sunway Malls and its retailers had invested adapt very quickly. By adopting the maxim of boost sales. Sunway Malls was again the first to a mixed strata below 10 years category. An MSC RM1 million as prizes and cash vouchers in its shared prosperity and shared burden with our announce a flexi operating hour option for status premise, the office building is located March one-month long sales driven campaign. retailers, we have certainly built a stronger retailers, to allow better optimisation of staffing directly opposite Sunway City Kuala Lumpur’s “Having gone through the experiences of relation with our retailers and other arrangement and enable retailers to cut down (SCKL) education and healthcare precinct, and MCO1.0, the impact of MCO2.0 was definitely stakeholders to go through the MCO2.0 again,” their operating costs. connected by a solar-powered canopied more balanced and not as detrimental as MCO he continued. Since MCO1.0 till date, the mall group has walkway. 1.0. It was better thought off to strike a balance Apart from spend and redeem campaigns, reported less than 1% of its retailers shutting Though malls in Malaysia generally enjoyed between lives and livelihood. MCO1.0 was since the pandemic began, Sunway Malls has down their operations. On contrary, Sunway strong traffic every festive season, this year’s predominantly skewed towards protecting lives supported its retailers through various Malls welcomed 200 new shop opening with a festive season got off to a muted start when with limit on economic activities,” he initiatives. The mall group was the first in the NLA of 700,000 sq ft across its malls last year Malaysia saw six of its states re-entered the highlighted. country to announce a 14-day rent-waiver in equivalent to a normal size mall with 100% Movement Control Order (MCO2.0), namely “We had certainly grown in experience and March, followed by further rent rebates, rental occupancy, a healthy retail space demand Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor, Melaka tested both our capability and resolve. We are assistance programmes, and RM15 million driven by the growing emergence and and Sabah, in mid-January. All malls under the also fortunate that businesses were able to marketing campaigns throughout the year to expansion of Asian retail brands. theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 9 WEDNESDAY SECURITIES SDN. B HD. 197201001092 (12738-U) APRIL 21, 2021 A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad Editorial: Tel.: 03-7784 6688 20/04/2021 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Participation Bought Sold Net Email: [email protected] % RM m RM m RM m Advertising: Tel: 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 46.4 Institutions 1874.1 1911.3 -37.2 Email: [email protected] 38.1 Retail 1561.3 1551.6 9.7 15.5 Foreign 646.4 618.9 27.5 Sun7.28 17.55 29.58 BIZ4.61 584.99 60.59 21.86 47.80 100.0 4081.8 4081.8 0 KLCI STI HANG SENG SCI NIKKEI TSEC KOSPI S&P/ASX200 Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia 1,607.57 3,192.17 29,135.73 3,472.94 29,100.38 17,323.87 3,220.70 7,017.80

KL MARKET SUMMARY April 20, 2021

INDICES CHANGE Petronas Gas bumps up FBMEMAS 11,825.10 +37.93 FBMKLCI 1,607.57 +7.28 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 630.97 +2.34 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 195.08 -1.12 CONSTRUCTION 184.64 +0.34 2021 capex to RM1.2-1.3b FINANCIAL SERVICES 15,093.10 +65.65 ENERGY 915.10 +5.74 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 734.35 +8.42 █ BY AMIR IMRAN HUSAIN SAFRI HEALTH CARE 3,122.67 -31.60 [email protected] oRevenue not expected to change much as its gas TRANSPORTATION 834.12 +14.75 PROPERTY 756.13 +7.02 PETALING JAYA: Petronas Gas Bhd processing and transmission operations are on PLANTATION 6,880.03 +13.80 (PetGas) has allocated a RM1.2-1.3 billion FBMSHA 13,232.00 +21.15 capital expenditure (capex) for 2021, long- term contracts FBMACE 8,592.66 +22.48 slightly higher than RM1.1 billion reported TECHNOLOGY 87.30 -0.61 for the previous year, according to CFO climate change concerns. However, we do not expect the Shariza Sharis Mohd Yusof. “As far as the energy transition is contribution to be a lot compared to 2020.” TURNOVER VALUE “The higher level is in line with all the concerned, it will not affect the PetGas The CEO affirmed that PetGas will 8.164 BIL RM4.081 BIL planned activities, should there will be new because more than 90% of the group’s continue to support the gas industry projects being announced, that figure may revenue is fixed under our long term liberalisation through Third Party Access and rise,” she told the media after the group’s contract arrangements. Hence, there is no it is exploring various opportunities to evolve 5 MOST ACTIVES AGM yesterday. variability in there, and it is by the booked with the changes and growth of the business. April 20, 2021 Shariza elaborated that some activities capacity.” “We will be focusing on three key in the previous year were affected by the Looking ahead, PetGas managing growth areas namely to position PetGas in STOCK VOL CLSG (sen) +/– (sen) Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting director and CEO Abdul Aziz Othman providing integrated solutions for power UCREST 989,089,100 59.5 +16.0 movement control order (MCO) projected that there won’t be much and utilities in the new industrial zones in KEYASIC 603,657,900 20.5 +3.0 restriction. variation in the group’s revenue this year as Malaysia. FOCUS 355,384,900 13.0 +0.5 This year, she pointed out that PetGas’ its gas processing and transmission “We also want to explore opportunities CENSOF 325,403,000 48.0 +10.0 42km new lateral gas pipeline project or business operates on a long term contract. to grow in Malaysia and regional power SEDANIA 220,878,900 26.0 -14.0 the gas turbine power plant in Pulau Indah, He pointed out that its utilisation rate is generation and regasification capacities Selangor contributed to the slightly higher quite high and demand is expected to including operation and maintenance capex. remain stable in line with what it has seen services, leveraging on our experience and 5 TOP GAINERS Moving forward, the CFO stated that the this year. expertise,” he said. April 20, 2021 group’s capex allocation would not be “On top of the capacity of our plants, Moving forward, chairman Adnan deterred by Petronas’ aspiration of there have been efforts to maximise the Zainol Abidin said it has some projects in STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) RM achieving a net zero carbon emission by capacity we have installed. We are not the framing stage at the moment, which NESTLE 84,100 136.40 1.10 2050, which was announced in November making efforts to sweat the assets,” said are in the area of integrated utilities F&N 47,200 30.78 0.62 last year. The national oil company outlined Abdul Aziz. solutions for industrial parks that are being TOCEAN 878,700 1.98 0.45 the net zero carbon emissions commitment As for electricity generation, he developed in the Southern Economic AXIATA 3,749,200 4.00 0.21 that will steer the organisation towards observed demand saw some drop in the Corridor as well as the Northern Economic AMTEL 6,305,500 1.38 0.20 providing cleaner energies as part of a first three months of the MCO but had Corridor. holistic approach to sustainability. rebounded in the later part of the year. “Another focus area for us is to increase On the whole, the oil and gas upstream “On the whole, we do not expect a lot of the capacity of our power generation 5 TOP LOSERS sector has seen significant capex cuts with variations to revenue, while on the utility capacities that we have. These are the April 20, 2021 the transition towards clean and side we expect some improvement on the projects that are still at the assessment sustainable sources of energy driven by electricity demand compared to last year. stage today,” said Adnan. STOCK VOL CLSG (RM) RM MPI 139,000 38.70 0.38 HEIM 51,600 25.04 0.26 FANG-2XL 1,200 14.38 0.24 GREATEC 4,464,600 5.89 0.23 HARTA 4,673,800 9.87 0.17

EXCHANGE RATES APRIL 20, 2021

Foreign currency Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 4.1815 4.0565 4.0465 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3.2660 3.1380 3.1220 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 3.1430 3.0520 3.0440 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3.3360 3.2470 3.2350 1 EURO 5.0420 4.8790 4.8590 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 3.0190 2.9080 2.8920 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 3.1430 3.0520 3.0440 Oil & Gas upstream sector has seen significant capex cuts with the transition towards clean and sustainable sources of energy driven by climate 1 STERLING POUND 5.8560 5.6730 5.6530 change concerns. – PETRONAS GAS WEBSITE 1 SWISS FRANC 4.5540 4.4510 4.4360 100 UAE DIRHAM 115.1600 109.2000 109.0000 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 5.0290 4.7010 4.5010 PKNM-Kenteam JV to create 7,000 jobs in Jasin 100 CHINESE RENMINBI N/A N/A N/A 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 54.4000 51.7000 51.5000 MALACCA: The development of the nitrile agreement for the proposed sale of land creating new business opportunities in the 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5.6800 5.3300 5.1300 butadiene latex processing plant project for owned by PKNM measuring 38.4ha on Plot future, as well as generating economic 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0.0297 0.0269 0.0219 the production of gloves, costing RM1.5 14, Elkay Industrial Area, Lipat Kajang in spillovers for Melaka and the country,” 100 JAPANESE YEN 3.8720 3.7510 3.7410 billion in Lipat Kajang, Jasin, has the Jasin to Kenteam. Sulaiman said. 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 2.7900 2.5900 2.3900 potential to create more than 7,000 job “I understand that the total sale price of Meanwhile, Lim said the investment in opportunities for local residents. the land is RM10.7 million,” he said after Malacca presents a good opportunity and 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 8.7800 8.2800 8.0800 Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri witnessing the signing ceremony yesterday. one of the efforts to boost investments in the 100 QATAR RIYAL 116.1100 110.2300 110.0300 Sulaiman Md Ali said the joint-venture The agreement was signed between state amid the Covid-19 pandemic. 100 SAUDI RIYAL 112.7200 107.0100 106.8100 project between Perbadanan Kemajuan PKNM CEO Datuk Azmi Hussain and “We hope this project can bring more 100 SOUTH AFRICA RAND 30.5200 27.5600 27.3600 Negeri Melaka (PKNM) and Kenteam Sdn Kenteam CEO Datuk Seri Justin Lim. investments to Malacca in the future in view Bhd would start in May and was expected to “The state government is also optimistic of the strategic location of the plant, with 100 THAI BAHT 13.9800 12.4000 12.0000 be fully completed by 2022. that the project that will be implemented access to highways and various other Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama “Therefore, today we signed a heads of would give positive impact in terms of facilities,” he said. – Bernama theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 11 * SUNBIZ Indian Muslim restaurants go digital with 7-Eleven’s proposed RM600m TFP Solutions’ help PETALING JAYA: ACE Market-listed MTN rated ‘AA-/stable’ financial technology (fintech) solutions provider TFP Solutions continue its rapid pace of expansion Caring Pharmacy had 144 stores Bhd’s 80%-owned subsidiary oReflects group’s strong and established with a target of opening 100-150 as at end-2020, growing organically OneCent Sdn Bhd yesterday entered stores annually for which it has by utilising internal funds for store into a memorandum of agreement position in convenience store segment: MARC earmarked a capex of RM70.0 expansions, as reflected by a low with Persatuan Pengusaha Restoran million. The expansion has provided leverage level of about 0.04 time at Muslim Malaysia (Presma), making an extensive geographical reach end-2020. Capex has ranged OneCent the exclusive provider of PETALING JAYA: Malaysian Rating investment holding company with throughout the country, further between RM4.1 million and RM8.3 innovative fintech services to all Corp Bhd (MARC) has assigned a two major subsidiaries: 7-Eleven entrenching its position. million between 2017 and 2020 and Indian Muslim restaurants registered preliminary rating of ‘AA-’ to 7- Malaysia Sdn Bhd (7-Eleven Operating under a long-term is expected to be maintained within with Presma. Eleven Malaysia Holdings Bhd’s Malaysia) which operates the exclusive licence from the US-based this range in the medium term. TFP Solutions group executive proposed RM600 million medium- convenience store chain under the 7-Eleven Inc, 7-Eleven Malaysia’s 7-Eleven Malaysia funded the director Datuk Indera Puteri term notes (MTN) programme with 7-Eleven brand; and Caring licensing risk is mitigated by its acquisition of the 75.0% stake in Munawarah Syammiyah Munir said a stable outlook. Pharmacy Group Bhd which lengthy operating track record. Caring Pharmacy for RM259.4 million OneCent will provide a complete “The assigned rating mainly operates the retail Same-store sales with bank borrowings, resulting in digital customer loyalty ecosystem to reflects 7-Eleven’s strong and pharmacy chain growth, however, has leverage of 3.31 times, from 1.46 a total of 4,500 members and 12,000 established market position in the under the Caring weakened, partly due to times. Group borrowings stood at restaurants under Presma. Moreover, convenience store segment, gained brand. Acquired in the increased RM533.1 million. The high leverage the 40,000 foreign workers employed from a long operating track record June 2020, Caring competition in the position is due to a reduced equity by the restaurants will also be with a wide store network that has Pharmacy is expected convenience store base, which was at RM161.2 million at provided with the OneCALL Mobile supported stable earnings to contribute about segment. This is being end-2020, by a reorganisation deficit FinTech for their use. generation. Moderating the rating 31.3% annually to addressed by of RM1.3 billion that arose from a “OneCALL Mobile FinTech’s SIM are the prevailing competition group operating profit increasing product and listing exercise in 2014. card comes with an approved e- within the convenience store over the next three service differentiation Without the reorganisation deficit, wallet powered by MobilityOne that segment, particularly in the urban years. in its stores, and by group leverage would be a moderate can support employee salary areas, and high operating cost 7-Eleven Malaysia has about refurbishing up to 450 others annually 0.35 times. Operating profit before disbursement via SmartHR & Payroll inherent in the convenience store 2,400 stores nationwide, accounting and shuttering underperforming interest, tax, depreciation and system, provide convenience of bill business model that has weighed on for about 64.9% of the total of stores. These efforts have resulted in amortisation interest coverage payments, purchase prepaid top-up, operating margins,” MARC said. number of convenience stores held improved operating margins to above (excluding lease liabilities) remained subscribe to data plan, and workers 7-Eleven is a non-operating by major operators. It is expected to 4.0% since 2019. strong at above 5.30 times. can send money back home to their families using OTR (OneTransfer Remittance). Besides that, we expect Presma to benefit tremendously by tapping into our retail network, e- M’sian bosses, workers receptive to Covid vaccinations commerce, order & delivery PETALING JAYA: Some 70% of the subject, it revealed that employees and 31% of Malaysian continue working remotely or platform.” Malaysian businesses will mandate Malaysian employers show the employers expecting to return to the flexibly, and just as many said they According to Presma president Covid-19 vaccinations for all their highest level of compulsory office in the next six months. will allow more geographic and Datuk Jawahar Ali, the association staff, according to a survey by people, vaccination intent, versus Given the circumstances, work hour flexibility. aims to upgrade the “digital capacity” payroll and benefits solutions employers in Australia (33%), the Employment Hero noted that Given that the future of work of its Indian Muslim restaurant provider, Employment Hero. UK (33%), and New Zealand (35%). Malaysian employers are remains uncertain, the survey found members, in line with the Likewise, employees are on Despite high levels of acceptance considering long-term remote or stress levels among Malaysian government’s objective to get all board with the decision, with 76% of vaccinations among the country’s flexible working models to employees (61%) and Malaysian businesses to adopt cashless agreeing to accept the vaccine, workforce, uncertainty over vaccine safeguard their workforce from employers (58%) have risen, but transactions by 2022. while only 7% surveyed said they rollout timelines leaves many hesitant continued restrictions and risks. 47% of employees do not feel “We will transform our members will refuse to take the vaccine. about returning to the office anytime It found that 32% of Malaysian comfortable discussing their mental and their employees by adopting a Of all the countries surveyed on soon, with only 29% of Malaysian employers anticipate their teams to health with superiors. fintech lifestyle by enlisting them in OneCent’s digital community, which offers a holistic lifestyle ecosystem SIP a boost for with spending rebates that are Bina Puri wins RM183m building job in Nepal shared within the group”. He added that Presma aims to be PETALING JAYA: Bina Puri (mechanical, plumbing and hydropower, construction, software sustainable and a role model for all other restaurants Holdings Bhd has secured an electrical works along with outsourcing, international trading responsible to go digital, in line with the international contract worth 5.2 firefighting) works. and FM radio/media. Kalika Group government’s MyDigital aspiration. billion rupees (RM183 million) for Bina Puri has been actively is one of Nepal’s largest and most investment agenda the construction of the Supreme participating in tenders for local respected business conglomerates. Court Building Complex at and overseas projects to replenish Samanantar Nirman Sewa was PETALING JAYA: Capital Markets YINSON LAUNCHES Ramshahpath, Kathmandu, a its order book. With the latest founded in 1993 and is one of Malaysia (CMM) and the GREEN TECH DIVISION project funded by the government award, the group’s project book Nepal’s growing and most reputable Institutional Investors Council PETALING JAYA: Yinson Holdings of Nepal. order will increase to RM1.9 billion. construction companies, delivering Malaysia (IIC) have jointly launched Bhd launched its green A filing with Bursa Malaysia Kalika Construction is a leading a range of projects for the the Sustainable Investment Platform technology division yesterday, yesterday showed that Bina Puri A-class construction company in government and other market (SIP) to support institutional

BRIEFSmarking the group’s foray into together with Kalika Construction Nepal with more than 40 years of sectors. The works completed by investors and fund managers build technology sectors that drive the Pvt Ltd and Samanantar Nirman experience in all types of building the company comprise government depth in sustainable and global transition to a net carbon- Sewa Pvt Ltd had entered into a works. It was founded in 1976 and buildings, hospitals, water supply responsible investment (SRI) zero future. The division will focus joint venture agreement to form its parent company, Kalika Group, systems, river protection, roads and strategies. on driving decarbonisation efforts Bina Puri-Kalika-Samanantar JV to operates in five infrastructure development in The SIP will carry out capacity within the region’s maritime construct the complex. b u s i n e s s different sectors. building for data collection, tools segment as well as investing in The 36-month contract was sectors: Bina Puri’s affiliation with Kalika and methodologies that will support clean energy initiatives within the awarded by the Supreme Court of is through both countries’ innovation in sustainable transport and energy segments. Nepal. The project consists of a membership in the International investment strategies. Its activities Green technology is Yinson’s seven-storey building, including Federation of Asian and Western will also include advocating newest business division, two basements, reinforced Pacific Contractors’ sustainable investing practices established in September 2020 to sit alongside the offshore cement concrete framed Associations represented by amongst Malaysia’s institutional production, renewables and structure building with the Master Builders investors and fund managers, offshore marine divisions. c o m p l e t e Association Malaysia and facilitating the exchange of finishing, Federation of Contractors international best practices and landscaping Associations of Nepal. positioning Malaysia’s sustainable GRABPAY ACCEPTED AT and MEP capital market leadership. SHELL PETROL STATIONS CMM, an affiliate of the PETALING JAYA: GHL Systems Bhd Securities Commission Malaysia has collaborated with GrabPay to (SC), will provide strategic support enable the acceptance of the and funding for the SIP. latter’s e-wallet at Shell petrol “The SC is wholly supportive of stations across Malaysia to this collaboration to build private encourage the participation of sector awareness and commitment cashless payments. Its CEO Sean S towards sustainable and green Hesh commented that the Artist impression of the collaboration will provide the practices, which closely align with Supreme Court Building our Sustainable and Responsible corresponding infrastructure to Complex in Ramshahpath, accommodate the demand of Investment Roadmap for the Capital convenience of consumers. Kathmandu. Market,” SC chairman Datuk Syed Zaid Albar said. 12 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 SUNBIZ

BANK INDONESIA HOLDS POLICY RATE, CUTS GROWTH OUTLOOK Meituan raises US$10b in JAKARTA: Indonesia’s central bank kept its main policy rate at a BRIEFSrecord low yesterday and trimmed its 2021 growth forecast for Southeast Asia’s largest economy, while pledging to stock, convertible bond sale strengthen measures to keep the rupiah currency stable. Bank Indonesia (BI) left the benchmark 7-day reverse repurchase rate at oChina food delivery giant 3.5%, where it has been since February and as expected by all to invest in autonomous 27 analysts in a Reuters poll. Governor Perry Warjiyo said a vehicles and aerial drones, global economic recovery had been stronger than initially and cutting-edge technology anticipated, underpinning demand for Indonesia’s exports, but warned that domestic HONG KONG: Food delivery behemoth Meituan consumption remained muted has raised US$10 billion (RM41 billion) in a stock due to mobility restrictions to and convertible bonds sale, underscoring strong control the coronavirus outbreak. investor faith in the growth prospects of some BI’s forecast for economic growth Chinese tech firms despite a regulatory this year was trimmed to 4.1-5.1% clampdown on the sector. from 4.3-5.3% previously. – The Tencent-backed firm with a market Reuters valuation of US$220 billion said it plans to use its new warchest to invest in autonomous delivery SUBARU TO SUSPEND vehicles, delivery drones and other cutting-edge OUTPUT IN INDIANA, technology. In a record fundraising for the company, Meituan sold US$6.6 billion in shares and gained roughly US$3 “Meituan will use most of the capital in billion in two-tranche convertible bonds. – REUTERSPIX CITES CHIP SHORTAGE updating its delivery system which currently TOKYO: Japanese automaker relies on human drivers and will soon be Most demand came from global long-only Meituan, which competes with Alibaba- Subaru Corp said yesterday that unaffordable for the company as labour costs funds, hedge funds and Chinese investors, said backed Ele.me among others, had an estimated it was suspending production at its plant in Indiana through continue to rise in China,” said Zhang Yi, head of the source, who declined to be named as the deal 68.2% of the Chinese food delivery market in the the end of April due to a global consultancy iiMedia Research. details were not public. second quarter of 2020, according to Trustdata. shortage of semiconductors. Analysts also expect the company to shore up Meituan declined to comment. Food delivery in China, which brings in more Automakers from Ford Motor to its community group bulk buying service, The robust demand comes as Chinese than half of Meituan’s total sales, has grown by Nissan Motor have cut Meituan Select, which has been growing in regulators crack down on technology giants for a more than five times since 2016 to be worth over production due to the shortage popularity. The service is part of its new range of violations from monopolistic behaviour 650 billion yuan (US$100 billion), according to of chips, used extensively in initiatives division which has been reporting to flouting rules for handling customer data. iResearch. Meituan’s services also include new cars for automatic operating losses and is expected to continue to do These include a record US$2.8 billion fine this restaurant review sites and bike-sharing. windows, parking assistance so for the next few quarters. month on Alibaba Group Holding Ltd for The company sold 187 million shares at and entertainment systems. A In a record fundraising for the company, antimonopoly violations, while Meituan Select HKUS$273.80 each, near the top end of the Subaru spokesman said 15,000 Meituan sold US$6.6 billion in shares and gained was among five platforms fined by China last indicative range set on Monday. At US$7 billion vehicles for North America roughly US$3 billion in two-tranche convertible month for improper pricing behaviour. in equity sales, the deal is the sixth largest follow- would be affected. She said that bonds. Another US$400 million was raised by “Chinese regulators ... just intend to regulate on share sale by a Hong Kong-listed company, a continued global shortage for selling more shares to Tencent Holdings Ltd, its them as per the law,” said Zhang. “Financing according to Dealogic data. chips, rather than a recent fire largest shareholder whose stake now stands at access, for both giants and startups, hasn’t The convertible bond offers a zero coupon rate, at Renesas Electronics Corp’s around 17%. changed and will keep being available.” meaning investors buy to secure future equity chip-making factory, was the At least 300 investors placed orders to buy the Tencent last week raised US$4.2 billion in a gains when it converts into stock. They would have main factor behind the stock with the top 20 orders taking up about two- bond offering that was the company’s second in a their principal repaid at maturity if the option to suspension. Increased demand for video games from people thirds of the offer, said a source. year. convert into shares is not exercised. – Reuters staying at home amid a global pandemic has also led to the scarcity, analysts say. – Reuters

DBS, Standard Chartered among potential CHINA PLANS US$3B SUPERCOMPUTING bidders for Citi’s Asia consumer business HUB IN WENCHANG BEIJING: China’s southern space SINGAPORE: Banks including DBS Group, to lenders with existing presence in these consumer portfolio, according to the sources. port of Wenchang will build a Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), OCBC countries, the people said. DBS, the only big foreign bank with a fully US$3 billion (RM12.4 billion) and Standard Chartered are set to bid for parts of “Asia is critical to our firm’s strategy, and we owned Indian subsidiary, is eyeing Citi’s India supercomputing centre by year- Citigroup’s consumer business in Asia, people will allocate resources to drive profitable growth business, which is also set to attract StanChart, end to analyse data obtained with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters. for our franchise,“ a Citi spokesman in Hong Kong and local lenders Kotak Mahindra Bank and Axis from space, according to state The sale process will start within a couple of said, declining to comment on the sale process. Bank, they said. media yesterday. With a weeks, the people added, declining to be named Representatives at Japanese lender MUFG SBI Cards and Payment Services Ltd, a unit of planned investment of 20 as they were not authorised to speak to media. and StanChart, and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial the country’s top public lender State Bank of billion yuan (US$3.1 billion), the The move comes after Citi said that it would Group, which the sources said was another India, is also weighing a bid for the US bank’s supercomputing centre will exit from its consumer franchises in 13 markets, potential bidder, declined to comment. credit card portfolio in India, two of the sources provide big data services for 10 of which are in Asia, as it refocuses on its more “DBS has always been open to exploring said. industries including the aerospace and marine sectors lucrative institutional and wealth management sensible bolt-on opportunities in markets where Kotak Mahindra declined to comment. Axis starting in 2022, state-backed businesses in these markets. we have a consumer banking franchise (China, Bank and SBI Cards did not immediately respond Hainan Daily said. In the next The businesses Citi is exiting had US$82 India, Indonesia and Taiwan),“ the bank, to a request for comment. decade, China envisions billion (RM338 billion) in total assets and were Southeast Asia’s biggest lender, said in a Citi’s consumer banking business in the 13 massive constellations of allocated US$7 billion in tangible common equity statement. markets accounted for US$4.2 billion of the commercial satellites that can last year, Citi has said. Citi’s sprawling India consumer business, bank’s US$74.3 billion revenue in 2020. All the offer services ranging from As Citi is not giving up its banking licences in comprising retail deposits, mortgages and credit markets it is exiting made a combined loss of high-speed internet for aircraft most of these markets, the sale of the consumer cards, as well as its Taiwan business would be US$40 million in the consumer banking business to tracking coal shipments. – banking portfolios and branches will only appeal among the most valuable parts of its Asian in the same year. – Reuters Reuters Britain’s unemployment rate surprisingly shrinks for second month running LONDON: Britain’s unemployment rate a rise during the first lockdown of last year. work for a year or more but with a similar business last week. unexpectedly fell for a second month in a row to There was another reminder of the number in the six-to-12-month bracket, that Finance minister Rishi Sunak in March 4.9% in the December-to-February period, most precarious state of the labour market in figures figure could soon rise sharply. extended his furlough scheme – which pays the of which the country spent under a tight Covid- from Britain’s tax office which showed the Britain’s economy shrank by almost 10% in wages of around one in five employees – until 19 lockdown, official figures showed yesterday. number of employees on company payrolls fell 2020, a bigger slump than almost all its the end of September although employers will Economists polled by Reuters had largely by 56,000 between February and March, the European peers, after it locked down later and have to start contributing towards some of its forecast that the jobless rate - which has been first decline in four months. for longer than many of them. costs from July. held down by the government’s huge jobs That pushed up the total number of jobs lost But helped by the fast rollout of Covid-19 Without the scheme, the jobless rate would subsidies programme – would edge up to 5.1% since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic to vaccinations, it is in the process of lifting its be far higher - a year ago, Britain’s budget from 5% in the three months to January. 813,000 – more than half of which were held by third lockdown while other countries in Europe forecasters said it could hit 10%. The ONS linked the fall to a large volume of people aged under 25, with hospitality-heavy have recently tightened their restrictions. The Bank of England will be watching how men leaving the jobs market altogether. The so- London the hardest-hit region, the ONS said. The ONS said there was a marked rise in job many jobs are lost when it expires as it considers called inactivity rate rose by 0.2 percentage Some 363,000 people are classed as long- vacancies in March, especially in sectors such as how long it needs to keep its huge economic points in the three months to February, echoing term unemployed after having been out of hospitality which reopened for outdoor stimulus programme in place. – Reuters theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 13 * SPORTS

322 Notices 322 Notices Russell makes Emotions got the

NOTIS JUALAN SECARA LELONG AWAM IN THE MATTER OF Akta Pemegang Pajak-Gadai (81) 1972 better of me, says Sandaran-sandaran yang tidak ditebus Pemegang Pajak Gadai yang tersebut dibawah ini THE COMPANIES ACT, 1965 Akan Di-jual Dengan Lelong Umum AND Di-6 Tingkat 1 Lrg 1 Tmn Ria 08000 Sungai Petani Pada Hari 04hb Mei 2021, IN THE MATTER OF Williams driver Waktu 02.00 Petang PAN MALAYSIAN PORT NEGERI KEDAH Bottas U-turn OPERATORS SDN. BHD. NAMA PAJAK GADAI ALAMAT PAJAK GADAI (198901011836) (189141-X) EROGE RUSSELL has sent a have ever made the move. responsibility for that. Having had Pajak Gadai EMJ Sdn Bhd 12 Lorong 1 Taman Ria 08000 Sungai Petani (In Members’ Voluntary full and frank apology to Asked specifically about Russell’s time reflect on what happened Pajak Gadai Kah Yuit Sdn Bhd 15 Taman Cenderawasih Jalan Kelang Winding Up) Lama 09000 Kulim Valtteri Bottas, after Bottas theory, Wolff said he felt that afterwards, I know I should have

Pajak Gadai Kah Yong Sdn Bhd 6A Jalan Kampung Baru 08000 Sungai Petani NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING Mercedes chief Toto Wolff was “bulls***” adding that the crash handled the whole situation better.

Min Seng Pawnshop 7 Jalan Raya 09300 Kuala Ketil Gbranded his post-race comments as could limit their ability to carry out “Emotions can run high in the heat NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN Pajak Gadai San Heng Loong Sdn Bhd LC 1203 Jalan Baling 09400 Padang Serai “bulls***”. necessary upgrades in the coming of the moment and yesterday mine got that pursuant to Section Pajak Gadai Sin Yit Foh Sdn Bhd 23-B Main Road 06300 Kuala Nerang 272 of the Companies Act, The Brit suffered a violent crash weeks. the better of me.” Pajak Gadai Sing Lee Seng Sdn Bhd 5 Jalan Semiling 08100 Bedong 1965, a Final Meeting of the during Sunday’s Emilia Romagna “The whole situation is absolutely He continued: “I apologise to abovementioned Company Pajak Gadai Sungai Petani Sdn Bhd 174 Jalan Kuala Ketil 08000 Sungai Petani Grand Prix, with the two coming not amusing for us, to be honest,” he Valtteri, to my team and anyone who will be held at UOA Business Sandaran-sandaran tersebut boleh diperiksa dengan Pemegang Pajak Gadai berkenaan diatas 26hb together after he attempted to told motorsport.com. felt let down by my actions. APRIL 2021 sehingga 28hb APRIL 2021, pukul 10.00 pagi sehingga 4.00 petang sebelum tarikh jualan Park, Tower 3, 5th Floor, K03- lelong itu. 05-08, 1 Jalan Pengaturcara overtake the Finn. And now Russell has backtracked “That’s not who I am and I expect U1/51A, Section U1, 40150 Iklan Bertarikh 21-04-2021 CHONG KIAN CHONG Russell lost control of his Williams, on his original view, claiming he takes more from myself, as I know others Pelelong Berlesen Shah Alam, Selangor Darul 04-5792628 Ehsan on Friday, 21 May 2021 but claimed that Bottas “squeezed full responsibility, while apologising to expect more from me. I’ve learned at 10.30 a.m., for the following him” and may not have carried out the Bottas. some tough lessons this weekend and 322 Notices 322 Notices purposes:- manoeuvre had he been a different “Yesterday wasn’t my proudest will come out of this a better driver 1. To receive and consider driver. day,” he wrote on social media. and a better person for the experience. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT, 2016 the Liquidator’s account of Wolff took a very different view of “I knew it would be one of our best “Now it’s full focus on Portugal and winding up of the Company AND the incident claiming Russell, who is opportunities to score points this a chance to show what I’m really and any explanations the final year of his season and, when those points matter about. Thanks for all the messages, IN THE MATTER OF arising thereof. PRESTARIANG TECH SERVICES deal with as much as they do to us right now, both positive and negative. They will SDN. BHD. 2. To resolve that under W i l l i a m s , sometimes you take risks. all help me to grow.” – Express (IN CREDITORS’ VOLUNTARY Section 284(3)(b) of the WINDING UP) s h o u l d n ’ t “It didn’t pay off and I have to take Newspapers (CO. REGISTRATION NO. Companies Act, 1965, all 201501015323 (1140656-M)) books and papers of the SECTION 449 AND 450 Company be destroyed upon the dissolution of the NOTICE OF MEETING OF CREDITORS Company. Moeen shines for Super Kings NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 449(4) of the Companies Act MOEEN ALI starred with bat and ball in MS bowler,” Dhoni, who completed another 2016, a meeting of the creditors of the Dated this above Company will be held pursuant to 21st day of April, 2021 Dhoni’s 200th game as captain of Chennai landmark after his 200th appearance for the Section 449(1) of the Companies Act Super Kings who thrashed Rajasthan Royals by three-time IPL winners in their previous win, 2016 on 3 May 2021 at Securities Jason Sia Sze Wan Services (Holdings) Sdn. Bhd., Level 7, Liquidator Moeen 45 runs in the Indian Premier League said of his wrecker-in-chief. Menara Milenium, Jalan Damanlela, yesterday. “It was good to have him. It (the pitch) was Pusat Bandar Damansara, Damansara Ali Heights, 50490 Kuala Lumpur at 10.00 The England all rounder scored a 20- turning a bit and stopping a bit.” a.m. for the purposes mentioned in Sections 449 and 450 of the Companies ball 26 in Coming in to bat at No. 3, Moeen took the Act 2016. Chennai’s 188 attack to the opposition bowlers as he hit two The purposes of the meeting are:- for nine and sixes and a boundary. • To lay out the Statement of Affairs of then claimed “My job here is to try and score as many the Company pursuant to Section 449(5)(a) of the Companies Act 2016. 322 Notices three runs for the team and get a good start,” said • To appoint a Liquidator for the wickets to man of the match Moeen. Creditors’ Voluntary Liquidation of the restrict On his bowling part for Chennai, Moeen Company pursuant to Section 450 of IN THE HIGH COURT OF MALAYA AT SHAH ALAM Rajasthan to 143-9 said, “I have a rough idea (when Dhoni is going the Companies Act 2016. IN THE STATE OF DR. ABU HASAN BIN ISMAIL SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN, in Mumbai. Moeen, to give me the ball). Once the left-hander Director MALAYSIA Dated this 21 April 2021 COMPANIES (WINDING-UP) who was bought for came in, I thought I’d be bowling. I’m always NO: BA-28NCC-104-03/2021 US$950,000 (RM3.9m) ready.” In the matter of Mureka Resources Sdn. in February’s auction, Left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja also Bhd. (Company No.: 1197031-V) returned figures of played a key role with his two wickets in one AND 3-7 from his three over including opener Jos Buttler for 49. He

In the matter of Section 464 & 465(1) overs of off spin. also took four catches. (e) of Companies Act, 2016 Rules of It was Chennai’s England’s Sam Curran returned impressive Court 2012 302 Jobs AND second successive win figures of 2-24 with his left-arm pace. of this season of the Twenty20 But it was Moeen’s crucial strikes off David In the matter of Companies (Winding-Up) Rules 1972 tournament after they lost their first Miller, for two, and then two in three balls

BETWEEN game. including Chris Morris, for nought, that “It is important to have that sixth flattened Rajasthan’s chase. – AFP POTENSI TERUS INDUSTRIES SDN BHD (Company No: 567307-P) … PETITIONER IS HIRING AND Thiem in pandenic rut but plans for Madrid MUREKA RESOURCES SDN. BHD. (Company No: 1197031-V) DOMINIC THIEM is struggling with Austrian newspaper Der Standard published SENIOR MANAGER / MANAGER … RESPONDENT pandemic-related “emptiness”, but plans to yesterday. Advertising Sales & Marketing ADVERTISEMENT OF PETITION return to the clay court in Madrid once a He said that while rivals such as Daniel knee pain dissipates, he told an Austrian Evans or Alexander Bublik may thrive without Requirements: NOTICE is hereby given that a petition for the winding-up of the abovenamed newspaper yesterday. distractions, he suffers with the restrictions • Minimum Diploma/Bachelor degree qualification or equivalent company by the High Court was on After winning the US Open against on movement during quarantines and the 22nd day of March 2021 presented • Minimum 5 years of experience in sales and marketing in print by Potensi Terus Industries Sdn Bhd Alexander Zverev in September, Thiem said empty stadiums. and digital media (Company No: 567307-P). And that the said petition is directed to be he was full of “euphoria”, but “in preparing for “It was extreme in Dubai,” he said. “We • Good communication, presentation, problem solving and heard before the Court sitting at Shah this season, I fell into a hole.” were locked in, while outside life was normal. organizational skills Alam High Court at 9.00 a.m. on the 23rd day of Jun, 2021 and any creditor “There is a certain emptiness, though it’s You were allowed to leave the hotel at 9pm • Possess own transport and willing to travel or contributory of the said company not dramatic. Last week, I didn’t even watch and enter an empty stadium. That’s not desiring to support or oppose the • Able to start immediately if successfully chosen making of an order on the said petition the football Champions League because it’s great,” Thiem said of his last match in March • Successful candidate(s) will be based in Petaling Jaya office may appear at the time of hearing by himself or his counsel for that such a tragedy,” he said, adding that he in Dubai, where he lost to Lloyd Harris. purpose; and a copy of the petition “barely followed” the tennis tournament in “If you aren’t 100% fit, you’ve already lost,” EXECUTIVE Advertising Sales & Marketing will be furnished to any creditor or contributory of the said company Monte Carlo, which he had decided to sit out. he said, referring his defeat in the last 16 of requiring the same by the undersigned The world No. 4 spoke of the mental strain the Australian Open in February and early Requirements: on payment of the regulated charge for • Minimum Diploma/Bachelor degree qualification or equivalent the same. of the pandemic in an interview with exits in both Doha and Dubai. – AFP • Minimum 1 year of experience in sales and marketing in print The Petitioner’s address is at Potensi Terus Industries Sdn Bhd of No 11A and digital media Jalan SS26/15, 47301 Petaling Jaya, BRIEFS • Good communication, presentation, problem solving and Selangor Darul Ehsan. Ko tips hat to Matsuyama, Speith organizational skills The Petitioner’s solicitor is Messrs A. • Fresh graduates are welcomed to apply Baskaran & Co of Unit 2-1 The Cube Fresh start in Paris for Barty LYDIA KO is back into the world's top 10 for Jalan 6/18A Taman Mastiara Jalan Ipoh the first time since February 2018 after her • Possess own transport and willing to travel 51200 Kuala Lumpur. AS former champion Ashleigh Barty dominant seven-stroke victory at the Lotte • Able to start immediately if successfully chosen Dated this 06th day of April, 2021 • Successful candidate(s) will be based in Petaling Jaya office prepares for Roland Garros on May 30, the Championship ended a 1,084-day winless run. ……………………………. Australian brushed off any regrets about The former teen prodigy’s last few rounds Messrs A. Baskaran & Co ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE/AGENT Solicitor for the Petitioner missing the French Open last year. She won made for some eye-watering statistics. From her only major singles title in Paris in 2019 her incredible record-equalling 62 on the (FREELANCE) Note: Any person who intends to appear on the hearing of the said but after the 2020 event was postponed to Sunday of the first major of the year, the ANA petition must serve on or send by post Requirements: to the abovenamed Solicitors, Messrs September/October she chose not to attend Inspiration, Ko has been untouchable. The New • Minimum 1 year sales experience in newspaper and digital A. Baskaran & Co notice in writing of his due to issues related to the pandemic. “It’s a Zealander’s last five rounds have been 62, 67, intention so to do. The notice must state advertising the name and address of the person, or long time since I’ve played at the French 63, 65 and 65 – a jaw-dropping 38-under-par if a firm, the name and address of the Open,” she said in Stuttgart yesterday, ahead with just one bogey in 90 holes. Up to seventh • Attractive commission package and incentive firm and must be signed by the person • Able to start immediately. or firm or his or their solicitor (if any) of her first match on European clay in in the world, Ko talked about how she’d been and must be served, or if posted, must be sent by post in sufficient time to almost two years. “It’s a fresh start, a fresh inspired by Jordan Spieth (1,351 days without reach the abovenamed Solicitors not start for everyone at that event.” She made a victory before the Texas Open) and Hideki Send in your application with your photo to later than twelve o’clock noon of the day of 22rd day of June, 2021. clear that her approach was also practical. Matsuyama (1,344 days until he won The [email protected] {Ref: ABC.1963/P.1.62/BAS/L/ “It’s a fresh tournament, and it’s a new Masters) ending similar droughts this month as CWU/2021} opportunity.” 2021 shapes up as the year of the comeback. 14 theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 SPORTS

“They don’t give me privacy. Even my SIDENETTING friend Gary is disturbing me. That’s my life!” Images from Sky Sports also emerged, with Rooney questions the 58-year-old getting items out of his car Coincidence or ‘crazy’ decision including large photographs from his career. TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR’S decision to sack manager Jose Mourinho just days before … and Spurs begin search their League Cup final against Manchester City is “crazy”, former England skipper for successor Levy master plan Wayne Rooney said. Rooney, who played TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR are in need of a under Mourinho when the Portuguese was new manager with just four days to go until █ VITHUSHAN EHANTHARAJAH Mourinho discarded after in charge at Manchester United, said Spurs the Carabao Cup final after Jose Mourinho should have waited until after Sunday's was sacked on Monday. Though Spurs’ THERE are in my mind two top, top coaches in Spurs’ seal ticket to the big final to pull the plug on the 58-year-old's involvement in the hugely controversial the world. One of them is at another Premier tenure. “I think it’s crazy doing it before a European Super League proposals may League club. And the other one is Jose.” It is a time via ESL Cup final. It’s strange timing anyway. Surely soon render the point meaningless, bit fiendish to bring up Daniel Levy’s doe-eyed they could have waited until after the Cup Mourinho paid the price for Spurs’ fall away “comments to the Amazon cameras when Jose might be a few hundred words on another example of final if that’s the direction they wanted to from the Champions League places during Mourinho first walked into the Hotspur Way Training Mourinho’s methods turning to dust within his go in. Mourinho is a manager who loves a poor second half of the season. The Ground so soon after he left for good. clenched firsts. winning trophies, that’s quite clear to see,” announcement came three days after a 2-2 After all, what else is a chairman to say at the start A continuation of a theme of encouragement, Rooney told reporters. He’s won a lot of draw at Everton. Academy coach Ryan of a new managerial era? Particularly after someone improvement, disillusionment and minor civil war trophies throughout his career… I’m sure Mason took training yesterday, but nothing so popular in Mauricio Pochettino had led the club to for his third successive sacking. (Spurs chairman) Daniel Levy could have has been said with regards to tomorrow’s regular top-four finishes and a first Champions But it is hard not to think, now, that the game is not waited until the day after the game. If there match, or Sunday’s final. Mourinho left with League final. changing, but has already changed. That Mourinho, was one manager to set up a team to play his coaching staff but Ledley King, who was As we sit here 17 months on, with Mourinho for all his self-worth, may reflect that he was merely a against City in a Cup final it’s Mourinho. a defensive coach, remains at the club. RB sacked over results that place Tottenham seventh and vessel. Tottenham haven’t had the best of seasons, Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann is the a broader sense of philosophical disarray among the Not for Spurs fans but the powers that be, who so from that point of view it’s crazy and a early favourite to replace Mourinho, though squad, we can say things have not worked out. knew, worst comes to worst, he could keep them on massive risk.” the German coach has also been linked Yet that does not necessarily make Levy’s course to the garish promised land. with Bayern Munich. assertion back in November 2019 all that foolish. Because the identity of football’s true elite … as Jose breaks silence Spurs had never employed someone as decorated has been revealed. A Forbes Messages from stars as Mourinho, with his eight League titles and two assessment in April valued Spurs JOSE MOURINHO has spoken out for Champions League wins among 25 trophies. at £2.3 billion (RM12.7b) – a the first time since his Tottenham after sacking That they could was a sign of their elevated status, 42% increase over the last sacking – by ranting at media JOSE MOURINHO has shared several and the belief was his fingers contained enough two years. outside his house. The messages he received from his former magic to reclaim glory for himself and in turn lift A period that Portuguese manager shared Tottenham players following his sacking on Spurs further up the food chain. encapsulates all of footage on his Instagram Monday. But the former Chelsea and The irony now is that by sacking Mourinho, Spurs Mourinho’s time in north channel moaning at the Manchester United boss has shared have improved their chances of a first piece of London, along with the media outside his London separate messages he received on his silverware since 2008 ahead of Sunday’s Carabao Cup reasons why he and home yesterday. The Instagram. Spurs captain Harry Kane was final. Spurs were able to meet former Spurs boss one of the first to reach out to the sacked While many dreaded the prospect of Manchester in the middle thanks to panned the camera Mourinho. Alongside a picture of them City picking apart a squad whose character had the fall of a manager and around the pavement both, he shared: “Thank you for everything consistently been called into question these last few rise of the club. outside his house, where Boss. A pleasure to have worked together. I months, suddenly, things seem that little bit clearer. From afar, the nature of cameramen and Sky Sports wish you all the best for your next chapter.” Besting the Premier League’s champions-elect his appointment and timing reporter Gary Cotterill were Forward partner Son Heung-min appeared remains a challenge, but the hope is the environment might lead us to wonder if seen. Speaking during the clip – to be even more devastated by the news is more conducive to a positive result in a one-off Mourinho was merely a pawn which gained more though. “I have no words to describe game just four days away. in Levy’s grander plan. than 500,000 how I’m feeling, it’s been a pleasure However, the Sunday that has just passed and the Probably not, but rarely will views within to work with you,” he wrote. seismic footballing shifts contained within it perhaps a decision better represent a half an hour of “I’m sorry things didn’t work show what Levy truly needed from Mourinho. tangible power shift within the publishing – out and truly grateful for the Because for all the talk of on-field success, the game. Mourinho time we’ve had together. announcement of Spurs as one of the founding clubs A manager history will recognise as says: Good luck and all the best of the European Super League was confirmation of one of Europe’s elite, surplus to for the future. Meanwhile, status. requirements by a club who never Mourinho signing Pierre- And to step back and look at what has become of were before one fateful Emile Hojbjerg wrote: Spurs over the last two seasons, its internal Sunday. – The “Thank you Mister, it was a machinations and external coverage, it is hard not to Independent great honour. I wish you all see Mourinho as an accessory. A glitzy bit of bling to the best.” Seventeen year- help an organisation feel like it belongs in this old striker Dane Scarlett, company. who recently made his The one-man ratings-booster, social media Premier League wrote algorithm buster, making any media appearance on Instagram: “I will appointment-to-view, no matter how inane. forever be grateful He was given a round of applause when he that you brought me walked into his first Champions League post- into the first team match press conference as Spurs manager and believed in me after they had beaten Olympiakos 4-2 at enough to give home. me my With the press auditorium packed, and Tottenham favourable European coverage guaranteed debut. Thank as the charismatic column grabber you for returned, it’s not hard to imagine Levy everything in there clapping with them. and good luck The irony of his sackind is that if it for the had taken place a week ago, there Daniel Levy (left) and Jose Mourinho. future.” Tuchel’s tactical nous takes Chelsea to brink of silverware █ MELISSA REDDY City’s expense at Wembley on Saturday, the control games, the habit of not conceding high- at bringing in silverware. That seemed eight-time winners of the tournament offered quality chances, a surety about their defensive inconceivable at the turn of the year. Chelsea WHEN Thomas Tuchel declared Chelsea would more evidence of why they hold status as the structure and a ridiculous collection of gifted were too open, too easy to break through under “hunt” Manchester City next season, eradicating team to fear in the new campaign. emerging talent that is complemented by Frank Lampard. the 20-point distance currently separating the Chelsea comfortably outplayed their pedigree and experience. At the end of his first season in charge, they teams by transforming Chelsea into certified title opponents, crushing their quadruple ambitions. Mason Mount, Kai Havertz, Ziyech and others had conceded 54 goals in the League, the club’s rivals, there was no sniggering in the North West Their superiority would have been emphasised in are nowhere near their ceiling. The chemistry worst record in 23 years. of England. the scoreline had Ben Chilwell and Hakim Ziyech between the players and the manager is still in its Lampard’s team were continuously undone on Instead, there was an acknowledgement from been more clinical. infancy, yet continues to produce intelligent the counter and via set-plays. Pep Guardiola’s staff that the Stamford Bridge A genuine, guaranteed goal machine remains performances and big results. At the point of his sacking, they had made side represent an increasingly formidable the only missing element from their make-up, Since Tuchel’s opening fixture in charge at the more errors leading to goals than any other team challenge. which is why Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland end of January, they have ousted Tottenham, in the division this season. This sentiment was echoed at Manchester will be heavily pursued no matter the cost and Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Everton, Porto and No Chelsea manager since Ruud Gullit, who United, while Jurgen Klopp has been quite vocal regardless of the queue of clubs attempting to now City – reaching the Champions League departed in February 1998, had overseen a worse about the marriage of Tuchel’s tactical nous and recruit him. semifinals and the climax of the FA Cup. record of successful efforts conceded per game. Chelsea’s overflow of supreme talent: great news Timo Werner has proved more of a creator At the moment, there is no great reason to Tuchel’s work in such a short space of time has for them, a gutting development for their with 12 assists this season rather than the man to disbelieve that Chelsea will have a sizeable say at been remarkable. And it could be crowned by a traditional foes. torment opposition goalkeepers. the top-flight summit next season. major trophy soon, while promising much more By deservedly reaching the FA Cup final at Chelsea have everything else: the ability to For now, however, they have two mega bites for the immediate future. – The Independent theSUN ON WEDNESDAY | APRIL 21, 2021 15 * SPORTS

ANCHESTER UNITED legend Gary Neville has issued a heartfelt apology to Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp over his European Super MLeague comments. Neville says sorry to Klopp The former defender was left “disgusted” when the two sides were announced along with Football pundit issues heartfelt apology to Reds’ boss after ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ jibe Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham in a breakaway league. manager said: “We have to stick together, and everyone understands that.” are at the front of this. And it saw him lay into both his former side when other people from other clubs use our And Neville put his club allegiances aside to “There was no sort of point scoring for me and former rivals, saying at Old Trafford anthem against us, I don’t like that as well. make an apology to the Liverpool boss in last night when I mentioned Liverpool and if I yesterday: “I’m disgusted with Manchester “We can show that nobody has to walk alone response to the pre-match interview. came across that way to Jurgen Klopp I United and Liverpool the most. in these moments. He said on Sky Sports: “When I was initially apologise. “Liverpool say they’re the people’s club, “There are things we have to sort, obviously, reacting last night, I mentioned ‘You’ll Never “He’s done the most incredible job. If I take ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’, the fan’s club. but it has nothing to do with the football and Walk Alone’. It wasn’t in a disrespectful way to allegiances away, I’ve absolutely loved watching “It’s pure greed, they’re imposters, the nothing to do with the relationship between the Liverpool and maybe in the past I’ve done that, his football team over the last four years – more owners of this club, the owners of Liverpool, the supporters and the team. but not last night. than the City one. They’re electric, they’re owners of Manchester City, the owners of “For me, that’s really important because you “My intentions last night were around the fact everything I want in a football team. Chelsea, they have nothing to do with football in have to show in tough times, you really stick that the two most successful football clubs in this “He’s everything I want in a manager, he’s this country.” together. country should have high standards of integrity. decent, his players are decent, I know some of And Klopp appeared to allude to the “That doesn’t mean you have to agree to “And for all of the rivalry, there is a respect. A them. The fans behind the goal are connected to comments ahead of the Reds’ Premier League everything, but, again, the boys didn’t do respect that you do the right things, a respect those players and to that manager. clash against Leeds. anything wrong apart from not winning all that you defend your club. But both clubs have “What’s happened, is they’ve been basically Speaking before the Elland Road fixture, the football games. I just want to make sure done great things and the shock that these two divided.” – Daily Star

SIDENETTING European football set for radical overhaul ‘Madrid will not be ‘FSG will be ‘run out’ Twelve of Europe’s top football clubs have agreed to join a new midweek kicked out of of Kop if Klopp departs’ competition, the European Super League – plotting a collision course with UEFA and its planned revamp of the Champions League by 2023-24 LIVERPOOL’S owners Fenway Sports Champions League’ Group (FSG) will be “run out” of the REAL MADRID president Florentino Perez said KEY MEN club in a week if they lose manager New elite European competition yesterday that no club will be thrown out of the Jurgen Klopp over the breakaway established by breakaway teams Champions League for joining a proposed European Super League, former from English Premier League, European Super League (ESL). defender Jamie Carragher said. “If Spanish La Liga and Italian Serie A UEFA said sides in the tournament will be Liverpool lose their manager on the unable to compete in their future competitions, back of this in the next 12 months, FOUNDING MEMBERS with Perez’ Madrid as well as City through to this then the owners will be run out of year’s Champions League last four. that club in a week. I can assure you of Arsenal ENG “They are the threats of someone who confuses that.” Liverpool have been owned by Chelsea ENG 1 2 3 monopoly with property,” Perez, who has been FSG since 2010 when they completed named ESL president, said on television a £300m (RM1.65b) deal. The takeover Liverpool ENG (1) Florentino Perez, chairman programme El Chiringuito. came after the club’s previous Manchester City ENG (2) Andrea Agnelli, vice-chairman “Madrid will not be kicked out of the American owners, Tom Hicks and (3) Joel Glazer, vice-chairman Champions League, definitely not. Nor City, nor George Gillett, had presided over a Manchester Utd ENG anyone else.” Teams from German period of decline. “It hurts me more Tottenham ENG He added: “It’s not going to happen. I don’t because this ownership bought Bundesliga and French want to get into the legal reasons but it’s not going Liverpool on the back of other Atletico Madrid ESP Ligue 1 – including giants to happen. It’s impossible.” American owners who ran the club European football’s governing body also said Barcelona ESP Bayern Munich and PSG – badly and the fans got them out,” refuse to sign up to proposal players could be stopped from featuring for their Carragher added. “These (owners) got Real Madrid ESP countries too. the club for a steal. It’s now six or “Any player can be totally calm because that is AC Milan ITA Plans have prompted widespread seven times bigger, they’ve made condemnation – vehemently not going to happen,” 74-year-old Perez said. their money and they won the lottery Internazionale ITA “UEFA is a monopoly and it also has to be with Liverpool.” opposed by sport’s governing transparent. UEFA does not have a good image in Juventus ITA bodies and football associations its history. It has to be open to dialogue and not Outrage can bring threatening,” he added. European Super League format UEFA Champions League format Earlier Perez claimed the move had been made unity: Parish to save the sport. CRYSTAL PALACE chairman Steve Three further founding members Introduction of expanded 36-team “Football has to keep changing and adapting to Parish joined in the condemnation of anticipated to join – all 15 teams will one-league format, with four teams the times. Football is losing interest. Something plans for a breakaway Super League qualify automatically each year added. Group stages abolished must be done,” Perez said. by some of Europe’s top clubs but said “Football is the only sport that is global. the turmoil could benefit football in Five teams will qualify annually Each team plays 10 matches, Television has to change to adapt to the times. We the long-run by uniting the based on previous season’s results based on seeding structure have to think about why 16-24 year-olds are no government and fans against it. Parish longer interested in football. told Sky Sports that the issue had 20 teams, divided into two groups Top eight qualify for Last 16 – “There are poor quality matches and there are been threatening to boil over for of 10, play each other home and teams finishing 9th-24th play off for other platforms for entertainment. Football has to years. “We all know it’s been brewing away. Top eight qualify for knock-out remaining eight places. Number of change. for a long time… We might look back stages, before single-match final matches increased from 125 to 225 “A group of clubs from some European on this and think it’s quite a good day countries want to do something to make this sport for football. We’ve seen people Super League: Potential sanctions UEFA Champions League winners more attractive worldwide,” Perez added. massively overplay their hand. They currently earn around €80m – He said the coronavirus pandemic had were getting their way on so many accelerated the need for change and clubs cannot Clubs banned from topped up by coefficient ranking. things… They’ve been chipping away existing competitions afford to wait for UEFA’s proposed Champions in the background and it’s difficult to Founding teams of European League reforms. “The new Champions League is get people to pay attention. So it feels Players denied opportunity Super League would share supposed to start in 2024. In 2024, all the clubs will like this was a bit of a gift. To unite to represent national teams upfront payment of €3.5bn, be dead,” said Perez. every fan in the country, on a Sunday before any seasonal benefits Perez claimed the new league would also help afternoon is quite a talent. We might Other legal measures smaller clubs. “They have said it is a league for the get into a very good place after all Sources: Super League, UEFA, AP Pictures: AP, Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS rich and it’s not true. It’s a league to save football,” this.” he said. – AFP Super League’s unprecedented conflict in European football PLANS for a Super League announced start their new tournament “as soon as conceived to placate the continent’s “all united against this nonsensical Bayern have distanced themselves by 12 of European football’s most possible”, with plans for three more biggest clubs. project” and said players involved from the project, with chairman Karl- powerful clubs plunged the game founding members to join and five European football’s governing would not be allowed to play for Heinz Rummenigge saying: “We are into an unprecedented crisis other clubs to be invited annually. body is pressing ahead with the new national teams, effectively banning convinced that the current structure yesterday. The competition threatens to format from 2024 onwards, which will them from taking part in European in football guarantees a reliable Six Premier League teams – completely upturn the world’s biggest see the number of clubs involved Championships and World Cups. foundation.” Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, sport and leaves the prestigious increase from 32 to 36 with each team However, organisers of the Super However, a source close to the 12 Chelsea, Manchester City and Champions League – itself the fruit of guaranteed 10 games. League said they would file a motion founding clubs told AFP “at least two Tottenham Hotspur – joined forces the last major shake-up in European UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin “before the relevant courts” to stop French clubs” are set to be involved with Spanish giants Real Madrid, football in 1992 – facing an uncertain lashed out at the breakaway plan, players being banned and “ensure the every year. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid as well future. calling it a “disgraceful self-serving seamless establishment and World governing body FIFA as Italian trio Juventus, Inter Milan and The breakaway announcement proposal from a select few clubs operation” of the competition, expressed its “disapproval” and called AC Milan to launch the competition. came just hours before UEFA purely fuelled by greed”. according to a letter seen by AFP, on all parties “to engage in calm, They plan to leave the UEFA- announced a new format for the The Slovenian added that addressed to Ceferin and FIFA chief constructive and balanced dialogue”. – sanctioned Champions League and Champions League, which had been European member associations were Gianni Infantino. AFP QUOTE OF THE DAY When I was initially reacting last night, I mentioned ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’. It wasn’t in a disrespectful way to Liverpool and maybe in the past I’ve done that, but not last night. My intentions last night were around the fact that the two most successful football clubs in this country should have high standards of integrity.” WEDNESDAY • APRIL 21, 2021 Gary Neville Klopp left ‘angry’ after Reds fail to find desired response

LIVERPOOL failed to issue the perfect on and poured forward in search of an response after Jurgen Klopp was left “angry” equaliser, with Patrick Bamford close to by the way Leeds United stars protested getting on the end of a couple of chances against plans to form a breakaway European while Jack Harrison forced a save from Alisson. Super League. And the goal Leeds had been threatening Leeds players warmed up for the 1-1 came when Llorente headed home from a Premier League draw at Elland Road Harrison corner. wearing T-shirts bearing the slogan “We played a really good game in the first “Champions League, Earn It” in protest at the half, a really good game. If you saw Leeds controversial scheme. more often maybe then you know how tricky Before the game, Jurgen Klopp became it is to play against them. We did really well,” the first manager of a “Big Six” club to speak Klopp told liverpoolfc.com after the match. out against the plans, with Gary Neville “They make the pitch big, they want to saying the Reds manager’s comments had play in different areas, are pretty direct, “destroyed” the club’s owners. running in behind, all these kind of things. He said neither he nor his players knew “We controlled that quite well, caused about the club’s plans to become a “founder them a lot of problems, scored a wonderful member” of the European Super League goal (and) could have scored others, should until Sunday – the days the news broke and have scored in the second half with the sent shockwaves around the football world. counter-attacks – didn’t do that and then you But he was angered by the T-shirts worn keep the game open. by Leeds players in the warm-up to the “Then we got step by step a bit deeper, clash, saying: “I heard already there are defended deeper, and that makes no sense. warm-up shirts or whatever. We will not That doesn’t help. But it’s an intense game to wear them because we cannot. play against them so we dropped deeper, it “But if somebody thinks they have to was not right but it happened, so they remind us you have to earn the Champions created, especially with set-pieces, big League, that’s a real joke. chances. “It makes me angry as well, they were in “Ali (Alisson) made two really good saves. our dressing room. If it was a Leeds idea, But, with the number of set-pieces and the thank you very much. Nobody has to remind size we had tonight – we obviously didn’t us, they should remind themselves.” have the tallest team – we were in danger Liverpool’s performance initially there so they scored the goal. appeared to back up their manager’s claim “Yes, when you are that long 1-0 up, it’s that they were determined to qualify for the quite frustrating when you don’t get it over Champions League on merit – with Sadio the line.” Mane’s first-half goal looking to propel them The draw left Liverpool two points outside back into the top four until it was cancelled the top-four places, with Klopp’s men having out late on by Diego Llorente’s equaliser. six games left to qualify for next season’s The Reds went on the front foot against Champions League – if they’re allowed to Leeds, and were rewarded for a positive, compete in it. energetic first-half performance when Mane And games like this – which could have fired home just past the half-hour mark, fed gone either way in the end – are an excellent by a cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold after advert for why football has to remain the right-back was picked out by a long ball competitive and open, regardless of the from Diogo Jota. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (left) in action with Leeds United’s Diego Llorente desires of billionnaire owners. – Express Leeds improved as the second half wore during the English Premier League match at Elland Road yesterday. – REUTERSPIX Newspapers/Agencies Owners go AWOL … as Premier League managers forced to bear brunt of European Super League furore

█ MELISSA REDDY Manchester City and Tottenham in the hyper-capitalist house they weren’t the ones to “The most important part of football are the breakaway tournament. build. supporters and the team. We have to make sure N 83 days as Chelsea manager, Thomas The first four questions of his pre-Brighton Klopp was up next to face the scrutiny, with nothing gets between that.” Tuchel had removed their continued media briefing focused on this development. the stakes considerably higher in his case. It is FSG creating the gap in that bond. The susceptibility on the counter and at set- Tuchel clearly didn’t know how to answer Tuchel is new to Chelsea, to the League, to owners knew there would be a sharp backlash to pieces. them and Chelsea didn’t want him to. Journalists having to take a solid position with wider Liverpool’s involvement, but didn’t care. IHe eliminated their habit of making more were being cut off and implored to ask about the ramifications. Money and the chance to milk new, tech- errors leading to goals than any other side in the match instead. He aggressively slid in on the Super League in savvy and cash-heavy fans have been carefully division. But that’s the whole point: the Super League 2019, hoping “it will never happen.” Naturally, prioritised over the lifelong supporters. Tuchel had outwitted Pep Guardiola, Jurgen renders such games insignificant. Such a there was interest in whether Klopp would water The ones that have created the identity and Klopp, Jose Mourinho, Diego Simeone and Carlo landscape-shifting situation can’t be sidelined. down that take and align with the club’s owners, history they happily market as special to sell, sell, Ancelotti, overcoming their teams without “There are a lot of comments, arguments and Fenway Sports Group. sell. conceding once during those fixtures. opinions out there,” Tuchel said. “I absolutely “My feelings didn’t change. My opinion This, the Super League, means more. The German guided Chelsea to the FA Cup don’t want to get involved in it because I don’t didn’t change,” he said. “People are not happy Klopp was forced to speak about these issues final and Champions League semis, with the know the details.’ with it, I can understand it. just before Liverpool lined up yesterday against only blot of his tenure being the shock surrender “Clearly I was not involved, and my players “I can’t say a lot more because we were not Leeds in a pivotal fixture for their top-four hopes to West Bromwich Albion. were not involved in this decision-making.” involved in the process – not the players, not me – just another meaningless match if FSG and the It has been quite the transformation at Tuchel had only been made aware of the – we didn’t know about it. other billionaires get their way. Stamford Bridge that Tuchel has overseen news on Monday and not the right person to “I like the competitive aspect of football. I like The owners are letting their managers and almost perfectly in taxing circumstances, field the Super League probing on Chelsea’s that West Ham might play in the Champions players go mercilessly into a battle they weren’t without ever seeming out of his depth. behalf, but Roman Abramovich and Bruce Buck League. I don’t want them to, because we want privy to, didn’t want and still don’t understand. That was until yesterday when he became the were never going to avail themselves. to, but I like they have the chance. Remember that when they spin the “best first manager in the division to be interrogated The owners and highest-ranking officials of “I’ve heard a few things but what I really don’t interests of the game” line – they aren’t even about the Super League, with Chelsea joining the Big Six have cowardly fallen silent, leaving like, Liverpool Football Club is much more than protecting their own employees let alone the Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, their managers and players to take the hits for a some decisions. pyramid. – The Independent

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