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1,374,670 | PM hosts luncheon in honour of visiting China premier Li Qiang | PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hosted an official luncheon in honour of visiting China Premier Li Qiang at Seri Perdana on Wednesday (June 19).
Li, who is here for a three-day official visit, arrived at the Prime Minister’s official residence at 12.38pm Wednesday.
ALSO READ: Malaysia and China ink 14 MOUs
Apart from the Chinese delegation, the luncheon was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
Also present were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
ALSO READ: Li Qiang accorded official welcome at Dataran Perdana
Earlier, Li and Anwar held a meeting at Perdana Putra to strengthen bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of several memorandums of understanding and agreements in various areas of cooperation including digital economy, green development, tourism, housing and urbanisation development, higher education, science and technology and the export of agricommodities to China.
ALSO READ: Chinese premier Li's visit celebrates 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties
This marked Li’s first trip to Malaysia since assuming office in March last year.
His visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Statement between second prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then Premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
In 2023, China remains Malaysia's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009, with a trade volume of RM450.84bil (US$98.90bil).
Malaysia's diplomatic relations with China have strengthened since the upgrading of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013. - Bernama | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Anwar Ibrahim,Li Qiang,China,visit,luncheon | PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hosted an official luncheon in honour of visiting China Premier Li Qiang at Seri Perdana on Wednesday (June 19). | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/pm-hosts-luncheon-in-honour-of-visiting-china-premier-li-qiang | |
1,374,669 | FBM KLCI falls as investors take profit | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI descended into negative territory as the domestic market continued to consolidate amid an absence of fresh leads.
At 12.30pm, the key index was down 3.76 points to 1,608.47 as investors took profit on blue chips following the recent strong rally.
The broader market was also notably negative with the number of decliners dwarfing gainers 835 to 280, while 444 shares were unchanged.
The total turnover was 3.37 billion shares valued at RM1.91bil.
Declining shares included Telekom down six sen to RM6.75, Press Metal falling nine sen to RM5.79 and PETRONAS Dagangan sliding 28 sen to RM17.50.
Banks were mixed, with laggards comprising CIMB down eight sen to RM6.75 and RHB falling two sen to RM5.51.
Of actives, JCY fell 3.5 sen to 79.5 sen, JAKS was flat at 18 sen and MYEG was unchanged at RM1.07.
Regionally, markets were mixed with Hong Kong's Hang Seng being the best performer, rising 2% to 18,264.
The Straits Times Index also gained 0.43% to 3,315.
Japan's Nikkei was little changed at 38,470 and China's composite index fell 0.33% to 3,020. | Business | Markets | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Markets,Bursa Malaysia,FBM KLCI,equities,trading,investor,commodity,stocks | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI descended into negative territory as the domestic market continued to consolidate amid an absence of fresh leads. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/19/fbm-klci-falls-as-investors-take-profit | |
1,374,667 | Patients left stranded as South Korea clinics shut down amid doctors’ strike | SEOUL: Choi Jung-hwa, a woman in her 30s, discovered a notice of service suspension on Tuesday (June 18) at the internal medicine clinic she regularly visited in Nowon-gu, northern Seoul, for heartburn treatment.
Although she was aware of the ongoing months-long confrontation between the government and doctors over expanding medical school quotas, she had not anticipated it would disrupt her access to medical care.
“I didn’t expect that even this local clinic where I have been treated would be closed,” she said while reading the notice that the clinic would be closed in the afternoon of June 18.
“I heard about the doctors’ strike in the media, but I didn’t think it was relevant to me,” she said, adding that she came to the clinic after checking online that it was operating.
On the day the nation’s largest doctors’ group went on strike, the health ministry said only 4.02 per cent of the nation’s 36,371 community hospitals, excluding dental and traditional Korean medicine clinics, reported to authorities that they would close their clinics.
However, the actual number of striking doctors would be likely higher, as some may reduce business hours or simply give no notice of service suspension, according to officials.
The clinic in Nowon where Choi visited was not on the list of medical institutions that reported to the government that they would be closed.
As of June 13, the last day the government allowed community doctors to report their plans to take a day off on June 18, no clinics in Nowon-gu had reported.
Out of 40 community hospitals in Nowon-gu The Korea Herald visited on June 18, six were either closed for the entire day or in the afternoon.
Of the six clinics, three were paediatric ones, two were psychiatric and one was for internal medicine.
None of the notices mentioned the strike; instead, they cited reasons such as air-conditioning failure and changes in personal schedules for the closure.
Those reasons are stated to avoid facing legal punishment, according to local reports.
Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong said on June 18 that the government ordered community doctors who joined the one-day walkout to return to work, warning that they would face legal repercussions if they did not comply.
Four months into the prolonged medical stand-off, the one-day walkout occurred a day after about 55 per cent of medical professors at four major hospitals affiliated with Seoul National University began an indefinite walkout, further raising concerns about public health services.
Patients in other districts also expressed concerns.
A woman who identified herself by her surname of Shin, who lives in Gangseo-gu and has a three-year-old son, said she and the other mothers in her community were very concerned about the situation.
“Children have weak immunity (systems) and always deal with infectious diseases such as colds,” she said.
“I am worried that my child will not be able to go to the hospital when he has a high fever due to the prolonged medical disruption. If people can’t get the medical care they deserve, I think society should disqualify doctors who put people’s lives at risk.” - The Korea Herald/ANN | AseanPlus | South Korea | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | South Korea,Patients,stranded,clinics,shut down,doctors,strike | SEOUL: Choi Jung-hwa, a woman in her 30s, discovered a notice of service suspension on Tuesday (June 18) at the internal medicine clinic she regularly visited in Nowon-gu, northern Seoul, for heartburn treatment. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/patients-left-stranded-as-south-korea-clinics-shut-down-amid-doctors-strike | |
1,374,665 | Singapore’s domestic recycling rate stalls at 12%, the lowest in over a decade | SINGAPORE: The household recycling rate in 2023 stagnated at its lowest point in over a decade, with just 12 per cent of all rubbish thrown out recycled – the same as in 2022.
The low recycling rate in 2023 comes even as households threw out less waste that year. In 2023, each person in Singapore threw out 0.88kg of rubbish a day, down from the 0.9kg generated per person per day in 2022, and the 1.08kg figure in 2013.
Singapore’s domestic recycling rates typically hover around 20 per cent, but fell to an all-time low in 2022 because less paper, cardboard, textile and leather were exported for recycling.
The National Environment Agency (NEA) revealed the waste statistics for 2023 on Wednesday (June 19), on the sidelines of the CleanEnviro Summit Singapore sustainability conference.
The low domestic recycling rate comes despite findings from an NEA survey in 2023 which showed that 72 per cent of households recycled, up from 64 per cent in 2021.
Conducted from April to June 2023, the survey of 2,180 respondents also found that 89 per cent of respondents were aware that common items such as rinsed shampoo or detergent bottles can be deposited into recycling bins and chutes, up from 71 per cent in 2021.
Still, having more households participate in recycling did not translate to an increased recycling rate in 2023.
Contamination remains a major challenge for domestic recycling in Singapore.
When non-recyclables such as food are thrown into the commingled recycling bins, they contaminate the lot, which must be thrown out.
The NEA estimates the contamination rate of domestic recyclables to be about 40 per cent.
Speaking at the joint opening of the 2024 Singapore International Water Week and the CleanEnviro Summit Singapore, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu said that as Singapore’s domestic recycling market is small, the Republic is reliant on other countries offtaking its recyclables.
This depends on factors such as freight costs and commodity prices, she said.
But Fu added that there has been a heartening shift towards “reduce” and “reuse”.
“Despite steady growth in Singapore’s population and economy, domestic waste generated per capita has dropped by more than 15 per cent over the past decade, while non-domestic waste generated per dollar gross domestic product has dropped by 30 per cent over the same period,” she added.
Overall, the domestic and non-domestic sectors in Singapore generated about 6.86 million tonnes of waste in 2023 – 7 per cent lower than the 7.39 million tonnes produced in 2022.
Domestic waste refers to waste generated from households, shophouses, petrol stations, hawker centres, educational institutions and places of worship. The non-domestic sector includes commercial and industrial premises.
The NEA said the lower amount of waste generated indicated that households and companies have taken positive steps to reduce and reuse.
Recycling, however, remains a perennial challenge for the Republic.
Under the Singapore Green Plan 2030, a national blueprint that sets out sustainability targets, the nation aims to achieve a 70 per cent overall recycling rate by 2030.
But the overall recycling rate – which includes figures from both domestic and non-domestic sectors – in 2023 was 52 per cent. This is down from the 57 per cent overall domestic recycling rate in 2022.
The NEA said the drop was due to the “significant decrease” in the amount of construction and demolition waste collected from commercial premises such as factories and construction sites.
Construction and demolition waste – a key industrial waste stream that is generated in large amounts – decreased by more than 40 per cent in 2023 compared with 2022, because there were fewer demolition projects.
Significant year-on-year variations in the volume of construction and demolition waste would thus result in huge fluctuations of the non-domestic and overall recycling rates, NEA added. - The Straits Times/ANN | AseanPlus | Singapore | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Singapore,domestic recycling,rate,12%,lowest,decade | SINGAPORE: The household recycling rate in 2023 stagnated at its lowest point in over a decade, with just 12 per cent of all rubbish thrown out recycled – the same as in 2022. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/singapores-domestic-recycling-rate-stalls-at-12-the-lowest-in-over-a-decade | |
1,374,661 | Pilots fear collisions as staffing crisis leaves Australian control towers empty | CANBERRA: Concerns among pilots about a possible midair collision are spilling over in Australia as a shortage of air traffic controllers leaves airport towers unmanned, forcing passenger jets to fend for themselves.
There are currently no overnight air traffic control services at Darwin, a northern gateway for carriers including Qantas Airways and Virgin Australia.
Schedules show that at around midnight almost every day, more than a dozen flights have to arrive or depart with almost no guidance from the ground.
On Australia’s north-east coast, the airport at Townsville – a popular jumping-off point for the Great Barrier Reef – does not staff its control tower at weekends. Almost 50 commercial services have to coordinate their own landings or take-offs on Sunday (June 16) alone.
The labour crisis on the ground is adding risk in the air during the post-Covid-19 travel boom, with members of flight crews taking on the task of distancing their planes from other air traffic – a responsibility that ordinarily lies with air traffic controllers.
Pilots say landing without direction from a tower removes an important layer of security at a critical period of the flight.
Concerned crew members are blowing the whistle after a surge in passenger traffic. Airlines have scheduled 866 flights into Darwin in June, the most in 2024, up from a pandemic-era low of 171 in May 2020, according to Cirium data.
Runway construction work at the airport that restricts plane movements is making landing and taking off without help even more complicated, pilots say.
In a statement, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority said it is “satisfied that the arrangements between 10pm and 6am are safe for the anticipated traffic mix” at Darwin. The regulator said it is working with the Defence Department, which is responsible for air traffic control at Darwin, to “support a return to the previous service levels”. The department did not respond to a request for comment.
A spokesperson for Airservices Australia, the government agency that manages airspace, said “rosters are tight in some areas” but “safety is never compromised”.
The organisation has recruited and trained 100 new air traffic controllers since 2020 and more than 70 others will join in the 2025 fiscal year, it said.
Like the rest of the aviation industry, air traffic controllers worldwide took a blow during the pandemic, with many laid off when international travel ground to a halt.
Employment levels in a sector that is essential in keeping aviation safe have failed to keep pace with the swift recovery in air travel.
The depleted ranks have been in the spotlight globally after a spate of close calls on runways in the US, including a near collision at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in April between a JetBlue Airways flight and a Southwest Airlines plane. In January, a fiery crash on the tarmac in Tokyo killed five people.
Safety concerns among air traffic controllers themselves in Sydney – Australia’s main aviation gateway – emerged early in 2023 when employees submitted at least 15 confidential reports to the transport safety investigator. Some warned that an accident was almost inevitable unless the manpower deficit was addressed.
As recently as last week, flight planning notices for pilots warned that control tower operating hours at airports across Australia were subject to “post-Covid Airservices staffing shortages”.
The list included the airports of the nation’s capital, Canberra, and Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania.
“Without air traffic control, the chance of errors by any one aircraft or pilot increases, and the ability to identify and correct those errors is dramatically reduced,” said Mr Tony Lucas, a senior Qantas pilot who is also president of the Australian and International Pilots Association.
“We want to see normal operations resume as soon as possible.”
In Australia, a vast country where air travel is just about unavoidable, it is common for small aerodromes or remote airstrips to operate on their own.
But pilots converging on Darwin, where there is no air traffic control from 10pm until 6am most nights, describe a late night airspace busy with commercial flights, military aircraft and small medical evacuation planes.
One Boeing 737 captain, a 20-year Qantas veteran, said he was relieved to land safely there in early April shortly after midnight without air traffic control.
He spoke anonymously because of the sensitivity of the subject. Under those conditions, said the pilot, an accident would come as no surprise.
That same month, the Australian Airline Pilots’ Association was so concerned that it issued a safety bulletin on the matter.
The body warned there is a higher risk of a midair collision in areas of uncontrolled airspace because not all aircraft are equipped with crash avoidance systems. The alert was distributed to professional pilot bodies worldwide.
Qantas declined to comment, but pointed to its recent submissions to an Australian parliamentary transport committee.
In a May 14 letter to the committee, Qantas said that “for safety reasons” its jets avoid uncontrolled airspace unless there is no other option.
Making pilots responsible for so-called self-separation in the air “was once an extremely rare event – almost unheard of in Australian airspace and even in a global context”, the airline said.
Now, it is commonplace.
Some 1,600 Qantas group flights in 2023 were delayed because normal air traffic services were unavailable, the carrier told the committee.
Almost 400 flights ran late in the first four months of 2024 for the same reason. The airline called for “additional regulatory oversight” of Airservices Australia.
Virgin Australia declined to comment, but it told the same parliamentary transport committee in May that air traffic control was withdrawn on 810 occasions between Jan 1, 2022, and April 24, 2024.
Those incidents occurred both mid-flight and as aircraft were approaching Australian airports.
At Darwin International Airport, there will be no overnight service until at least November 2024, according to instructions for pilots on the Airservices Australia website. The restrictions were put in place in July 2022.
The dense cluster of flight arrivals and departures at Darwin either side of midnight points to the challenges of maintaining midair separation.
As many as 16 flights operated by Qantas, Jetstar and Virgin land or depart inside a window of about two hours, well after Darwin’s control tower has closed, according to the airport’s flight timetable.
The Qantas pilot who spoke anonymously said the last time he approached Darwin airport, he received an overview of nearby flights from an area controller, allowing him to build a picture of the situation in the air.
He then contacted other aircraft to ensure they were distanced – vertically and horizontally – and would not be landing at the same time.
He touched down without incident after getting on the plane’s Wi-Fi and checking Flightradar24, a site more typically monitored by aviation enthusiasts on the ground. Many jets do not have Wi-Fi.
It is not as if government bodies are not aware of longstanding concerns among pilots and air traffic controllers.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau in March 2023 published an anonymous confidential submission, apparently from an air traffic controller, which highlighted a lack of understanding among controllers and flight crews about what to do in uncontrolled airspace. The situation was “an accident waiting to happen”, the person said.
In June 2023, the safety bureau said air traffic controllers had made “a large number” of confidential reports in the preceding four months. Fifteen of them related to operations in Sydney. There had been just one in the previous five years.
Excerpts from those submissions, published by the bureau, point to widespread concerns about staffing levels and procedures in Sydney.
One controller warned it was “only a matter of time before the current practices at Airservices result in a major aviation incident”.
Another said it would take years to fix the labour crisis. At that time, Airservices denied there were shortages in Sydney.
Meanwhile, another Boeing 737 pilot familiar with the current restrictions at Darwin says the airport is too busy to run without full-time air traffic control.
Airservices Australia has had ample time to fill holes in its workforce, the Australian airline pilot said, speaking anonymously because he is not authorised to speak to the media.
The situation at Darwin is as bad as he has known, said the pilot, who has flown for around two decades. - Bloomberg | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Long | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Australia,Pilots,fear,collisions,staffing crisis,control towers,empty | CANBERRA: Concerns among pilots about a possible midair collision are spilling over in Australia as a shortage of air traffic controllers leaves airport towers unmanned, forcing passenger jets to fend for themselves. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/pilots-fear-collisions-as-staffing-crisis-leaves-australian-control-towers-empty | |
1,374,656 | Malaysia and China ink 14 MOUs | PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China have exchanged 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) through which both countries will share expertise and best practices, and collaborate in various fields.
The exchange of MOUs was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese Premier Li Qiang here on Wednesday (June 19) during the latter’s three-day official visit to Malaysia.
Among the highlights was the Protocol Between the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China and Malaysia's Agriculture and Food Security Ministry covering phytosanitary (plant health) requirements for exporting fresh durians to China.
ALSO READ : Li Qiang accorded official welcome at Dataran Perdana
Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu exchanged the MOU with Chinese Ambassador Ouyang Yujing.
This means that Malaysian durian farmers will be able to export fresh durians instead of frozen fruit to China starting this year.
The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) exchanged three MOUs with China: the Second Cycle of the Five-year Programme for Economic and Trade Cooperation (2024-2028); Strengthening Investment Corporation in Digital Economy; and Promoting Investment and Cooperation in Green Development.
Its Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz exchanged the MOUs with his counterpart Wang Wentao, the Commerce Minister of China.
ALSO READ : Chinese premier Li's visit celebrates 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties
The Home Ministry also exchanged two MOUs with China, the Agreement on Cooperation in Preventing and Combating Transnational Crimes; and the Letter/Note of Intent on Visa Exemption between Malaysia and China.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail exchanged the MOU with Ouyang and China’s Vice-Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and Ouyang exchanged the MOU on Cooperation in the Field of Housing and Urban Development.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, represented by its Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, also exchanged two MOUs with Ouyang: the Executive Programme for the Implementation of the Agreement on Cultural Cooperation; and Cooperation in the Field of Tourism.
The Communications Ministry, represented by Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, exchanged two MOUs with Ouyang: one with China Media Group of the People’s Republic of China on Cooperation in the Field of Media; and the other on Strengthening Cooperation in the Postal Field between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the China State Postal Bureau.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang exchanged an MOU on Science and Technology, People-to-People Exchange Programme with Ouyang.
Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan also exchanged an MOU on the Joint Statement on National Single Window for Cross-Border Trade Initiative.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir exchanged the MOU on Cooperation in the Field of Higher Education.
Li arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday (June 18). His official visit will conclude on Thursday (June 20).
ALSO READ : China ready to work with Malaysia to build China-Malaysia community, says Li Qiang
This is his first trip to Malaysia since assuming the post in March last year.
Li’s visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Communiqué between then prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then Chinese premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
Li is expected to have an audience with his Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia on Wednesday after departing Seri Perdana.
Li and Anwar are also expected to attend a dinner to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in the evening.
The Chinese Premier is also expected to attend the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) groundbreaking ceremony in Gombak in the evening and a luncheon with the business communities of both countries on Thursday.
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 years since 2009, with trade amounting to RM450.84bil last year. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Malaysia,China,MOUs,Exchange,Fresh Durians,Agriculture Ministry,Export,Miti,Economic Cooperation,Digital Economy,Green Development,Premier,Li Qiang,Official Visit | PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China have exchanged 14 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) through which both countries will share expertise and best practices, and collaborate in various fields. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/malaysia-and-china-ink-14-mous | |
1,374,653 | Govt agrees to three-day cloud seeding operation for K'tan, says Zahid | PUTRAJAYA: The government has agreed to carry out a cloud-seeding operation in Kelantan from June 21 to 23 to address the depletion of the Kelantan River and to mitigate the impact of the hot weather phenomenon and the Southwest Monsoon, which is expected to persist.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also chairman of the Central Disaster Management Committee (JPBP), said this follows a request by the Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA), coordinated through the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma), the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
He also approved the use of RM5mil from the National Disaster Relief Trust Fund to ensure the success of the operation.
"The three-day operation is aimed at increasing the water level of the Kelantan River to irrigate the affected agricultural areas.
"Cloud seeding is an initial measure taken by the federal government to address the depletion of the Kelantan River and to mitigate the impact of the hot weather phenomenon and the Southwest Monsoon, which is expected to continue until the end of September this year,” he said in a statement Wednesday (June 19).
Ahmad Zahid said the low rainfall recorded from February to April this year had contributed to the depletion of the Kelantan River's water level and disrupted the operation of pumps across the KADA area.
According to him, for the Kemubu pump house to operate fully, the Kelantan River needs to reach a water level of 4.90m, but KADA recorded only 2.19m in the second week of April.
"This effort is hoped to promptly provide sufficient water resources in the catchment areas during the hot and dry weather, particularly in Kelantan.
"I also hope that this integrated effort can help increase the water capacity in the catchment areas and subsequently ensure that the water supply can be delivered to users without any disruption,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid also urged Nadma and ministry to report the details of the results of the cloud-seeding operation on June 23. - Bernama | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | cloud seeding,operation,Kelantan,river,Ahmad Zahid Hamidi,Kada,Nadma | PUTRAJAYA: The government has agreed to carry out a cloud-seeding operation in Kelantan from June 21 to 23 to address the depletion of the Kelantan River and to mitigate the impact of the hot weather phenomenon and the Southwest Monsoon, which is expected to persist. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/govt-agrees-to-three-day-cloud-seeding-operation-for-k039tan-says-zahid | |
1,374,635 | Curb fee splitting to keep healthcare affordable | PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) warns that the cost of healthcare in the country may rise if practices such as fee-splitting by third-party administrators (TPAs) are not regulated.
The association's president, Dr Azizan Abdul Aziz, said in a statement on Wednesday (June 19) that regulating TPAs to curb unethical practices would protect the healthcare system against commercialism.
"We call on MPs to address the matter in the upcoming Parliamentary session," she urged.
Dr Azizan defined TPAs as privately owned managed care organisations hired by companies to manage their employee health benefits.
"These middlemen earn from providing managed care services to employers and from charges to private general practitioner (GP) clinics to be listed as a panel clinic.
"The majority of private GPs rely on TPAs for the network of clientele (companies) they provide and administrative services managing the various employers (companies).
"Private GPs will not be able to sustain their practice from solely relying on out-of-pocket paying patients, she said.
Dr Azizan added that 50% of private clinic patients come under managed care.
She said that in fee-splitting, TPAs take a percentage of the total bill charged to patients. This leads to increased costs incurred by private GPs and specialists. This could compromise patient care.
"Over time, this can affect the sustainability of the private clinic and the quality of patient care being provided," she said.
She added that fee-splitting is unethical under the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) guidelines.
"If left unchecked, it will further escalate healthcare costs, particularly private primary care services.
"Since the Health Ministry claims that it does not regulate TPAs, we urge the government to take action against private medical practitioners involved in fee-splitting," she said.
Dr Azizan said several key issues with the absence of regulation and oversight of TPAs include high registration fees for GP clinics, delayed payments and claim rejections, operational inefficiency, a lack of transparency, and issues involving pricing and fee caps.
In the statement, MMA also proposed establishing an authoritative body to regulate TPAs, enforce ethical practices, and standardise processes to create a unified clinic registration system.
It also urged the Health Ministry to oversee the matter. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | MMA,TPA,Fee-Splitting,Unethical Practices,Azizan Abdul Aziz,Private GP | PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) warns that the cost of healthcare in the country may rise if practices such as fee-splitting by third-party administrators (TPAs) are not regulated. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/curb-practices-of-fee-splitting-to-keep-healthcare-affordable | |
1,374,633 | Kelantan Speaker declares rogue Bersatu rep's Nenggiri state seat vacant | PETALING JAYA: Kelantan state assembly Speaker Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah has declared that the Nenggiri state seat is vacant effective Wednesday (June 19).
The Nenggiri seat was held by rogue Bersatu assemblyman Mohd Azizi Abu Naim (pic).
Mohd Amar announced this at a press conference in Kota Baru on Wednesday.
He said that the decision was made after the Kelantan State Legislative Assembly received a written notice of Azizi's termination from Bersatu on June 13, Malay language daily Berita Harian reported.
“With this, I announce the unexpected vacancy of the Nenggiri seat represented by Azizi. The seat needs to be filled within 60 days of the Election Commission’s acknowledgement of the vacancy notice,” he said.
Mohd Azizi, who is also Gua Musang MP, was among the six Bersatu MPs and one assemblyman who had declared their support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last year.
MORE TO COME | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Politics,Nenggiri,Mohd Azizi Abu Naim,Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah | PETALING JAYA: Kelantan state assembly Speaker Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah has declared that the Nenggiri state seat is vacant effective Wednesday (June 19). | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/kelantan-speaker-declares-rogue-bersatu-rep039s-nenggiri-state-seat-vacant | |
1,374,624 | Insufficient infrastructure, lack of promotion holding back Brunei's tourism, says economist | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam is facing a host of challenges to its tourism industry, including insufficient infrastructure and lack of promotion, said an economist from the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO).
Country economist for Brunei Darussalam at AMRO Vanne Khut noted hard infrastructure such as airport connectivity, ground and tourist service infrastructure such as accommodation and car rentals appear to be insufficient.
There is also limited ‘soft infrastructure’ such as skilled workers and the labour market conditions which trail behind regional peers, reflecting some challenges when attracting and retaining skilled talent in the sector.
“Over the years, there has been also a lack of marketing and promotional campaigns to help drive the tourism sector’s growth.
"Furthermore, the strength of the local currency vis-a-vis regional peers’ can make Brunei look more expensive to foreign tourists and influence their decision to visit,” he said.
Khut said investing in both hard and soft infrastructure is thus necessary to foster growth in the tourism sector.
“The planned establishment of a new Brunei-based airline, which is expected to enhance Brunei’s connectivity with several Chinese cities, bodes well for tourism.
"Enhancement of infrastructures, such as equipping hotels with better facilities and Internet connection, should also be a priority,” he added.
“Given the competitive tourism landscape in the region, Brunei should also focus on establishing niche markets for its tourism sector by leveraging its rich culture and biodiversity.
"The establishment of ecotourism resorts in Temburong District is a step in the right direction,” he said.
Khut said another viable option to spur growth of the tourism industry is to promote the country as a premier destination for Islamic tourism.
“Brunei has the potential to further develop this niche market, given the extensive availability of prayer facilities, halal dining and Muslim-friendly hotels and resorts in the country,” he said.
“With clear directions in place, Brunei has a good opportunity to eventually become a top niche tourism destination in the region.” - Borneo Bulletin/ANN | AseanPlus | Brunei | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Brunei,insufficient,infrastructure,lack,promotion,tourism,economist,AMRO | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei Darussalam is facing a host of challenges to its tourism industry, including insufficient infrastructure and lack of promotion, said an economist from the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO). | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/insufficient-infrastructure-lack-of-promotion-holding-back-brunei039s-tourism-says-economist | |
1,374,613 | Brunei court dismisses sexual offender’s appeal for reduced sentence | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal of a sexual offender who took advantage of three pupils while he was a school teacher.
The appellant, 27, pleaded guilty on July 20, 2022 to three charges of outraging the modesty of his victims, one aged six and the other two aged seven.
He was caught after one of the victims told her parents, which led to a police investigation.
The appellant contended that the sentence is “too long”, considering his guilty plea and previously clear record.
Chief Justice Datuk Seri Paduka Steven Chong, along with Justices Conrad Seagroatt and Edward Timothy Starbuck Woolley, noted that the sentencing judge considered a deterrent sentence was necessary having regard to the repulsive nature of the appellant’s acts; the young age of the victims, and the offences were committed “openly” in the classroom.
The Court of Appeal said, “This was an egregious violation of trust by the appellant being the teacher of the victims. The aggravating factors collectively warranted a severe sentence.
“First, the sexual assaults were of a serious nature. Second, the victims were young and vulnerable girls. Third, the victims were targeted by the appellant.
"Fourth, the sexual assaults occurred in the classroom during a lesson when the victims should have been safe,” the court pondered.
“In the circumstances, notwithstanding the appellant’s guilty plea and clear record, we find no arguable basis for contending that the sentence is too harsh,” the court stated on dismissing the application. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN | AseanPlus | Brunei | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Brunei,court,dismisses,sexual offender,appeal,reduced sentence | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal of a sexual offender who took advantage of three students while he was a school teacher. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/brunei-court-dismisses-sexual-offenders-appeal-for-reduced-sentence | |
1,374,610 | Alert bank officials prevent Rs 120 cr fraud, 7 arrested in Uttar Pradesh | UTTAR PRADESH (India): A joint team of the Cyber Cell and Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested seven members of a gang that had siphoned Rs 120 crore off the bank account of the APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), the police said.
According to police, while posing as AKTU officials, the fraudsters first opened an account in the university’s name at a branch of a nationalised bank where the varsity already had an account.
Thereafter, they tricked the bank officials into transferring Rs 120 crore in five instalments to the new account and from there the money was transferred to an account of a Gujarat-based charitable trust in another nationalised bank.
This transaction raised doubts in the minds of bank officials who got an audit done and discovered the fraud.
The officials then informed police which arrested seven men on Tuesday (June 18), alleged to be involved in the crime.
Police say that the gang had procured a letter required for the transfer of funds from the public sector bank’s branch manager, Anuj Kumar Saxena, and impersonated AKTU’s authorised signatory to open the second bank account.
They then procured cheque books and transferred the money to the Gujarat-based company’s bank account.
Those arrested were identified as Devendra Prasad Prabha Shankar Joshi and Uday Patel from Gujarat, Rajesh Babu of Unnao, Girish Chandra and Shailesh Kumar Raghuvanshi of Lucknow, Dastgeer Alam of Amethi and Krishna Kant of Basti district.
The police also succeeded in recovering Rs 119 crore from the accused by getting the payment stopped.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (East), Prabal Pratap Singh, said the miscreants procured the email ID of the bank by contacting the bank’s branch manager who was on vacation.
The miscreants sent a fake letter to the Jankipuram branch in which AKTU has a bank account, asking them to transfer the money in AKTU’s FD account at the Vidhan Sabha Marg branch.
“The miscreants had opened a fake FD account in the name of AKTU. They then transferred the money in a company’s account and withdrew around Rs 1 crore,” the DCP added.
In his complaint on June 12, bank manager Anuj Kumar Saxena had said that during his outing in Manali on June 3, he got a call from a man who introduced himself as Shailesh Kumar Raghuvanshi, who asked him to share his visiting card as he needed to make a fixed deposit.
Saxena added that he sent Raghuvanshi to the bank and asked a bank official to take up his case.
“On the next day, I got a call from one Jai Singh who introduced himself as the finance officer of AKTU, asking for the FD rate at the bank. The next day they got Rs 49 crore, Rs 49 crore and Rs 22 crore transferred to the Vidhan Sabha Marg branch from the Jankipuram branch,” he said.
He also added that the bank sensed the foul play and requested the Gujarat bank in which the trust has a bank account to stop the payment. - The Statesman/ANN | AseanPlus | India | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | India,Uttar Pradesh,bank,prevent,fraud,seven,arrested | UTTAR PRADESH (India): A joint team of the Cyber Cell and Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested seven members of a gang that had siphoned Rs 120 crore off the bank account of the APJ Abdul Kalam Technical University (AKTU), the police said. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/alert-bank-officials-prevent-rs-120-cr-fraud-7-arrested-in-uttar-pradesh | |
1,374,608 | Anti-graft group urges govt to be careful with using its resources in Sg Bakap | PETALING JAYA: An anti-graft group says recent contributions announced for houses of worship in Sungai Bakap, the construction of a fire station, and the upgrading of a market may constitute elements of bribery and corruption.
#RasuahBusters said such contributions also violated the mandate and trust of the people.
"Any form of promises and gifts leading up to elections not only creates negative interpretations and perceptions among the people but also poses a significant threat capable of undermining the democratic system in this country.
"The actions demonstrate hypocrisy towards the nation's aspirations and commitment to combating corruption and are regressive to the recovery of governance and integrity in the country," it said in a statement Wednesday (June 19).
On June 11, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim extended donations totalling RM290,000 to nine mosques and 20 surau in the Sungai Bakap state constituency for Hari Raya Aidiladha.
On the same day, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming also announced almost a RM18mil allocation for various projects, including the construction of the new Permatang Tinggi fire station at RM13.7mil, the upgrading of the first floor of the Bukit Panchor market and contributions for six non-Muslim houses of worship.
#RasuahBusters said such perceptions also tarnished the government's efforts to combat corruption.
"A just and fair election should not be tainted with old vote-buying practices by distributing incentives that should rightfully be allocated fairly to those who deserve them, regardless of time and place.
"The government must always be careful on the use of its resources during sensitive periods around any elections," it said, adding that while the government should function as usual, it must avoid actions that were clearly seen to influence the election process.
"At #RasuahBusters, we focus on what is right, not who is in power. Such a contribution is wrong; we will maintain this stance regardless of who leads the country.
"No matter who is in power, right is right. Wrong is wrong!" the group said in its statement. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Sg Bakap Polls,Rasuah Busters,Contributions,Upgrading,Projects,Corruption,Hypocrisy | PETALING JAYA: An anti-graft group says recent contributions announced for houses of worship in Sungai Bakap, the construction of a fire station, and the upgrading of a market may constitute elements of bribery and corruption. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/anti-graft-group-urges-govt-to-be-careful-with-using-its-resources-in-sg-bakap | |
1,374,604 | Woman passenger booked for biting crew member in Lucknow, India | NEW DELHI: A woman passenger, who was supposed to board a flight for Mumbai, has been booked by the Lucknow police after she allegedly attacked and bit an airline ground crew member at the Lucknow airport, the police said.
The incident happened on Tuesday (June 18) evening when passengers of flight QP 1525 were boarding the plane, which was scheduled to take off at 5.25pm.
The FIR was lodged at Sarojini Nagar police station.
Shailendra Giri, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Sarojini Nagar, said, “The woman was stressed and not in sound mind.
"She had engaged in a heated argument with fellow passengers after boarding the flight.
"When the flight crew attempted to calm her down, she again lost her temper.
"Later, the ground staff was called to deboard her.”
“While being deboarded from the aircraft by airline ground crew, the woman bit a male crew member on the wrist, after which the CISF was called and she was brought to the police station for legal action,” the SHO added.
The woman was booked under IPC Sections 324 (voluntarily causing hurt) and 504 (breach of peace).
The woman passenger, who hails from Agra, but lives in Mumbai, had come to Lucknow to meet her sister, the police said.
Following the lodging of the FIR, the woman was sent to her relatives. - The Statesman/ANN | AseanPlus | India | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | India,woman,passenger,booked,biting,crew member,Lucknow, | NEW DELHI: A woman passenger, who was supposed to board a flight for Mumbai, has been booked by the Lucknow police after she allegedly attacked and bit an airline ground crew member at the Lucknow airport, the police said. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/woman-passenger-booked-for-biting-crew-member-in-lucknow-india | |
1,374,597 | China-US cooperation: Case involving illegal forex transactions under probe | BEIJING: Following a United States clue on drugs and money laundering, Chinese police have launched an investigation into a case involving illegal foreign exchange transactions, China's Ministry of Public Security said Wednesday (June 19).
The investigation has found that, since 2017, the suspect surnamed Tong started a car dealership in the United States and offered exchange services between Chinese yuan and US dollars.
The operation later evolved into criminal activities including the illegal trading of foreign exchange.
Tong has already been arrested, and further investigations are underway, said the ministry.
The ministry noted that the case is a prime example of recent China-US anti-drug cooperation. - Xinhua/ANN | AseanPlus | China | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | China,US,cooperation,case,illegal,forex transactions,probe | BEIJING: Following a United States clue on drugs and money laundering, Chinese police have launched an investigation into a case involving illegal foreign exchange transactions, China's Ministry of Public Security said Wednesday (June 19). | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/china-us-cooperation-case-involving-illegal-forex-transactions-under-probe | |
1,374,594 | Puchong drug raid leads cops to modified car with high-tech hidden compartment | SERDANG: A police narcotics raid led to the discovery of a modified car that used a locked compartment to store drugs.
The raid on June 17 in a rented house in Puchong was conducted by both the Bukit Aman and Kelantan Narcotics Crime Investigation Department (NCID).
Bukit Aman NCID director Comm Datuk Khaw Kok Chin said that during the raid, police discovered the car that was believed to be used to transport the drugs discreetly.
“A keycard is needed to open the compartment and it can only be opened when the car has been started,” he said, adding that the compartment was further obscured by “speakers” in the trunk.
“During the operation, a 36-year-old man was nabbed on suspicion of being involved in drug trafficking.
“The house was used as a storehouse and the police discovered around RM13.5mil worth of illicit drugs,” Comm Khaw told a press conference at the Serdang police headquarters Wednesday (June 19).
He said about 73.15kg of ketamine and 308.69kg of syabu were seized.
“It is estimated that the drugs could have been used by up to 1.8 million addicts,” he said.
Comm Khaw also said that other syndicate members were believed to still be free and that police are currently tracing them down.
“We are also urging the house owner to come forward to assist investigations,” he said.
The suspect has been remanded until June 24 to assist investigations. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,Police,Raid,Drugs,Modified,Car,Khaw Kok Chin,Narcotic Crime Investigation Department | SERDANG: A police narcotics raid led to the discovery of a modified car that used a locked compartment to store drugs. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/puchong-drug-raid-leads-cops-to-modified-car-with-high-tech-hidden-compartment | |
1,374,593 | Most Asian markets advance after latest Wall St record | HONG KONG: Equities rose across most of Asia on Wednesday (June 19) following yet another record day in New York fuelled by data that boosted US interest rate cut hopes, though expectations were tempered by cautious comments from Federal Reserve officials.
The below-forecast May retail sales figures pointed to signs of fatigue among American consumers -- a crucial driver of growth -- suggesting the world's number one economy was slowing and giving the central bank room to ease monetary policy.
The reading helped to slightly offset a surprisingly large jump in US jobs creation that pointed to a still-resilient labour market despite a long-running campaign of rate hikes and stubbornly high inflation.
The S&P 500 and Nasdaq clocked up more records, driven again by a surge in demand for Big Tech, with Nvidia overtaking Microsoft to become the world's most valuable publicly traded company.
Chip giant Nvidia, a titan in the artificial intelligence sector, hit a market capitalisation of $3.349 trillion after cruising nearly 3,500 percent higher in the past five years. And one analyst predicted it could even hit $5 trillion in the coming year, according to Bloomberg News.
The rally on Wall Street spilled over into Asia, with tech firms among the big winners.
Hong Kong piled on more than one percent after a recent run of weakness, while Tokyo, Singapore, Seoul, Manila and Taipei also rose.
Shanghai, Sydney and Wellington edged down.
"The data clearly reflects a shift in US consumer behaviour, which is becoming more conservative, feeling the pinch from higher interest rates, curbing wage increases and a depletion of savings," said Rodrigo Catril of National Australia Bank.
"Importantly, too, we expect more of the same over coming quarters."
The Fed's so-called "dot plot" guidance to interest rates showed officials see just one cut before January, down from three predicted in March, and while some observers are optimistic for two, or even three, decision-makers remain reluctant.
On Tuesday, Fed governor Adriana Kugler said the policy was "sufficiently restrictive to help cool the economy and bring inflation back toward 2 percent without a sharp contraction in economic activity or a significant deterioration of the labour market".
And St. Louis Fed boss Alberto Musalem added that he needed to see a "period of favourable inflation, moderating demand and expanding supply" before he could consider easing.
"These conditions could take months, and more likely quarters to play out," he warned. - AFP
MICROSOFT
NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK
INDEX CORP. | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Hong Kong,Asian market report June 19 2024 | HONG KONG: Equities rose across most of Asia on Wednesday (June 19) following yet another record day in New York fuelled by data that boosted US interest rate cut hopes, though expectations were tempered by cautious comments from Federal Reserve officials. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/most-asian-markets-advance-after-latest-wall-st-record | |
1,374,592 | CCUS bill not needed for Sabah and Sarawak, says Kitingan | KOTA KINABALU: The proposed Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Bill is not necessary for Sabah and Sarawak, as these two states have separate land and forestry laws, says Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan (pic).
The Sabah Deputy Minister said the CCUS, which is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year, does not apply to the Borneo States and should not cover Sabah and Sarawak.
“There is a clear constitutional separation of jurisdiction in that both land and forestry matters are state matters under the State List and under the purview of the Sabah government,” he said in a statement on Wednesday (June 19).
Kitingan, who is state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry minister as well as Chairman of the State Carbon Steering and Monitoring Cabinet Committee, said this intention was made known to the National Climate Change Council meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in Putrajaya last Friday (June 14).
He said Sabah has arrangements to sell carbon credit sales from its two million hectares of tropical forests under the Nature Carbon Agreement (NCA).
“With its own carbon reduction program, Sabah will take responsibility for its carbon credit potential under its own Sabah land and forestry laws with or without the Federal government’s proposed new CCUS laws,” he said.
Kitingan said that, as recognised under Article 1(3) of the Federal Constitution, Sabah’s land includes land under water, and its boundaries have extended to the continental shelf since 1954.
He said Sabah is in the process of enacting its own carbon capture and utilisation laws and updating the Forest Enactment 1968, including making “carbon” a forest product.
“Thus, there is no necessity for the CCUS to be extended to Sarawak and Sabah,” Kitingan stated. | News | Sabah & Sarawak | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Sabah & Sarawak,CCUS,Jefferey Kitingan,Borneo States,Jurisdiction,Carbon Credit,NCA, | KOTA KINABALU: The proposed Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Bill is not necessary for Sabah and Sarawak, as these two states have separate land and forestry laws, says Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/2024/06/19/ccus-bill-not-needed-for-sabah-and-sarawak-says-kitingan | |
1,374,589 | New agreement allows Cambodia to implement Singapore’s digital govt products | SINGAPORE: The Cambodian public service is set to get Singapore-made digital tools to carry out its work, with an agreement signed between Singapore and Cambodia on Tuesday (June 18).
The memorandum of understanding on digital government will allow Cambodia to implement Singapore’s open-source digital government products.
Examples include verification tools for government-issued certificates, an electronic form builder and a URL shortener with anti-phishing and anti-tracking capabilities
The agreement was signed by Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information Janil Puthucheary and Cambodian Minister of Post and Telecommunications Chea Vandeth at the Istana on June 18.
It was witnessed by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
The Cambodian leader is in Singapore from June 18 for a two-day official visit.
This is the latest high-level exchange involving Singapore’s newly minted leader, who also met Bruneian and Malaysian leaders in the past month.
In conjunction with Hun Manet’s visit, the Monetary Authority of Singapore and the National Bank of Cambodia announced the start of the Financial Transparency Corridor Initiative.
The agreement on the initiative was signed in July 2023, and aims to catalyse increased cross-border-related financial services between small and medium-sized enterprises of both countries.
The initial batch of participating financial institutions is currently being onboarded, with the first live financing transactions set to begin in the second half of 2024.
Earlier in the day, Hun Manet received a ceremonial welcome at the Istana and called on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
During their meeting, President Tharman and Hun Manet reaffirmed the warm and longstanding ties between Singapore and Cambodia, as both countries look towards the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year.
They discussed strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade and investment, financial transparency, and food and water security.
Hun Manet also met Wong, who then hosted an official dinner for him.
In his speech at the dinner, Wong welcomed growing economic ties between Singapore and Cambodia.
He pointed out that Singapore is one of Cambodia’s top investors, with investments in key sectors like real estate, logistics, agribusiness and finance.
Economic cooperation between both countries has expanded to new areas like renewable energy and carbon credits, said Wong.
He cited examples like the conditional approval to export one gigawatt of electricity from Cambodia to Singapore, an agreement on carbon credits transfer, and a regional working group to facilitate cross-border electricity trade.
“Such bilateral and multilateral cooperation between our countries contributes to our respective energy transitions and economic goals. They also form an important component of our shared vision of an integrated Asean Power Grid, which will strengthen energy resilience and security for the region,” said Wong.
Wong said that while Cambodia and Singapore are at different stages of economic development, both countries face common challenges and share similar perspectives and interests on many issues.
Wong said: “We both have to navigate a more dangerous and troubled geopolitical environment. We both have a stake in making Asean a strong and robust grouping in the international arena.
“I firmly believe that our two countries can benefit tremendously from greater cooperation. Through Asean, we can also work together to maintain stability and peace in the region, and to ensure continued progress and prosperity for our countries and our peoples.”
Wong also added that Singapore stands ready to support Cambodia’s development priorities as it puts in place a long-term socio-economic plan to become a high-income nation by 2050.
Hun Manet said in his speech: “Singapore has been a pivotal partner of Cambodia across various sectors, including trade, economy, infrastructure, development, and people-to-people linkages. Moving forward, we aim to deepen this partnership by exploring new avenues in human capital development, food security, energy security and other vital areas aligned with shared priorities and future aspirations.”
Hun Manet will meet Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong on June 19.
He is also scheduled to attend the Cambodia-Singapore Business Forum, organised by the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce, the Singapore Business Federation, the Singapore Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia and the Singapore Alumni Association of Cambodia, and visit Nanyang Polytechnic and Keppel Infrastructure@Changi. - The Straits Times/ANN | AseanPlus | Cambodia | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Cambodia,Singapore,agreement,digital govt,products | SINGAPORE: The Cambodian public service is set to get Singapore-made digital tools to carry out its work, with an agreement signed between Singapore and Cambodia on Tuesday (June 18). | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/new-agreement-allows-cambodia-to-implement-singapores-digital-govt-products | |
1,374,582 | Ulu Tiram attack: Slain suspect's family members face nine charges including supporting terrorism | JOHOR BARU: Five family members of the Ulu Tiram police station attacker have been charged at the Sessions Court here on Wednesday (June 19) with a total of nine charges between them.
They are Radin Imran Radin Mohd Yassin, 62; his Singaporean wife, Rosna Jantan, 59; and their children Radin Romyullah Radin Imran, 34, Farhah Sobrina Radin Imran, 23, and Mariah Radin Imran, 19.
ALSO READ: Ulu Tiram attack: Injured cop maintains fighting spirit, to continue serving
All five were brought to the Johor Baru Court Complex using separate vehicles on Wednesday (June 19) under heavy police security.
The family, who are not represented, were charged before Sessions Court Judge Datuk Che Wan Zaidi Che Wan Ibrahim.
Radin Imran faces four charges. He was first charged with allegedly encouraging terrorist acts by incorporating the Islamic State's ideology into his family, including the attacker Radin Luqman, aged 21, between the end of 2014 and May 17, 2024, at a house along Jalan Rabani in Kampung Sungai Tiram.
ALSO READ: Ulu Tiram Attack: Two policemen killed promoted to corporal posthumously
This offence is under Section 130G(a) of the Penal Code (Act 574), which carries a 30-year imprisonment and fine upon conviction.
His second charge alleges that he supported terrorism by storing four homemade air rifles for Islamic State activities at the same location at around 10.45am on May 17. This offence falls under Section 130J(1)(b) of the Penal Code (Act 574), which carries life or up to 40 years imprisonment or a fine, with properties used or intended for carrying out the offence seized upon conviction.
The third charge states that Radin Imran pledged loyalty (baiah) to Islamic State head Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi, at the same location at the end of 2014. This is under Section 130J(1)(a) of the Penal Code (Section 574), which carries life or up to 40 years imprisonment or a fine, with properties used or intended for carrying out the offence seized upon conviction.
ALSO READ: Ulu Tiram shooter’s family of five rearrested under Sosma
For the fourth charge, Radin Imran was alleged to possess a book titled “Hakikat Islam & Hakikat Syirik” by Abu Sulaiman Aman Abdurrahman, linked to Islamic State, at the same location on May 17 and May 19 between 10.45am and 2.30pm. This charge is under Section 130JB(1)(a) of the Penal Code (Section 574), which carries seven years imprisonment or a fine and seizure of the material.
Radin Romyullah was charged with two offences, including swearing allegiance to Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi and possessing an external hard disk containing materials related to the Islamic State and its activities. He allegedly committed these acts at the same location between the end of 2014 and May 17.
He was charged under Section 130J(1)(a) and Section 130JB(1)(a) of the Penal Code (Act 574). He faces life imprisonment or up to 40 years imprisonment with a fine, and up to seven years imprisonment with a fine.
ALSO READ: Ulu Tiram Attack: Johor religious department steps up monitoring of deviant teaching
Rosna and her daughters, Farhah Sobrina and Mariah, were charged with deliberately omitting to provide information regarding crimes related to the ideology of terrorism. They allegedly committed this offence at the same location between April 2017 and May 17. They face a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine.
All five understood the charges against them, and Che Wan Zaidi set July 31 for the case remention. No bail was offered, and Che Wan Zaidi advised the family to appoint a lawyer or represent themselves.
Putrajaya Attorney General's Department serious crimes unit Deputy Public Prosecutors Mohamad Mustaffa P. Kunyalam and Fazeedah Faik prosecuted the cases.
In the Ulu Tiram police station attack on May 17, two policemen, Constable Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, 22, and Constable Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, were killed. Another police officer, Corporal Mohd Hasif Roslan, 38, was injured by two gunshots to the shoulder and hip. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,Charged,Ulu Tiram,Police,Station,Attack,Family Members | JOHOR BARU: Five family members of the Ulu Tiram police station attacker have been charged at the Sessions Court here on Wednesday (June 19) with a total of nine charges between them. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/ulu-tiram-attack-slain-suspect039s-family-members-face-a-total-of-nine-charges-including-supporting-terrorism | |
1,374,561 | Govt readies measures to boost liquidity of Thai economy | BANGKOK: After an underwhelming economic expansion in the first half of 2024 due to both internal and external factors, the government is planning to increase the liquidity of the Thai economy during the rest of the year by accelerating disbursement of the government’s budget and providing loans for entrepreneurs, the Finance Ministry said this week.
During an interview with Krungthep Turakij newspaper on Monday (June 17), Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul (pic) said that the Thai economy is currently suffering from a chronic problem: Lack of liquidity.
“The main reason behind the sluggish economic expansion is that most of the government's expenditure has yet to enter the economy, due to delays in disbursement of FY2024 budget,” he said. “This has resulted in no new investment and a lack of funds to stimulate the economy.”
He said the fact that the current policy rate is too high for the economic climate did not help the situation.
With potential investors all waiting for positive signs, the Thai manufacturing sector is suffering from a halt in the expansion of production and recruitment, he said.
Paopoom pointed out that the high interest rate has also prompted state and commercial banks to tighten their loan criteria for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are “the backbone of the economy due to high employment”.
To remedy this, he said, the cabinet has approved an “Ignite Thailand” loan of 5 billion baht, to be distributed by the Government Savings Bank.
The bank is also considering offering another batch of soft loans worth 100 billion baht to SME clients, although this portion will not come from the government's budget, said Paopoom.
Furthermore, the Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation also receive the greenlight with a budget of 50 billion baht to offer loan guarantees to eligible SMEs under the 11th edition of Portfolio Guarantee Scheme (PGS), he added.
“More loan schemes are being considered to increase SMEs’ liquidity,” said Paopoom.
As for concerns about increasing non-performing loans and debt defaults among SME operators, Paopoom said the two phenomena are not the result of providing more loans but rather of the bank’s stringent loan considerations.
“More loans will enable everyone to stand on their feet, not just SMEs but also supply chain providers, preventing the domino effect of one business’ downfall affecting another,” he said.
The deputy finance minister said that plans are in the pipeline to establish a public organisation to provide loan guarantees for SMEs as an alternative to the Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation.
The organisation, which will issue loan guarantee certificates for a fee, will help share the risk with loan applicants, similar to the business model of insurance.
“With an affordable fee, this model of business has proven to be highly successful in foreign countries,” he added.
Paopoom said the Finance Ministry is hopeful that the economy in the second half of the year will bounce back, thanks to the acceleration in FY2024 budget disbursement in government and state enterprises’ projects, the digital wallet scheme, and other financial measures.
“We are still targeting 5% economic expansion annually as a long-term target. This can be achieved through continued policies in economic development and a variety of financial measures that the ministry is working on,” he said. - The Nation/ANN | AseanPlus | Thailand | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Thailand,liquidity,economy,Finance Ministry,Soft Loans,SMEs,Thai Credit Guarantee Corporation (TCGC),Fiscal Budget | BANGKOK: After an underwhelming economic expansion in the first half of 2024 due to both internal and external factors, the government is planning to increase the liquidity of the Thai economy during the rest of the year by accelerating disbursement of the government’s budget and providing loans for entrepreneurs, the Finance Ministry said this week. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/govt-readies-measures-to-boost-liquidity-of-thai-economy | |
1,374,552 | Xi urges all-out response to floods, drought in China | BEIJING: President Xi Jinping has urged an all-out response to the recent floods and drought conditions that have hit different regions across the country, saying that utmost efforts must be made in the search for and rescue of missing and trapped individuals and the resettlement of affected residents.
Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, highlighted in an instruction published on Tuesday (June 18) the importance of maintaining normal production and daily routines and minimising disaster losses to the greatest extent possible.
He noted that heavy rainfall has recently hit many regions in southern China, triggering floods and geological disasters in provinces including Guangdong and Fujian and leading to casualties and property damage.
Meanwhile, drought conditions in parts of North China have become more severe, he said.
As China is set to face more challenges in flood control with the start of the main flood season, Xi urged authorities at all levels to strengthen their risk awareness, think about worst-case scenarios and ensure that their responsibilities are fulfilled and make solid work in disaster relief.
He also stressed the need to strengthen disaster monitoring and early warning, identify and eliminate potential risks, stock up on equipment and supplies, improve contingency plans, and effectively respond to various emergencies to ensure the safety of people and their property.
The nation has ramped up its flood control and disaster relief measures as floods triggered by rainstorms wreaked havoc in southern China.
Meanwhile, scorching heat is baking central and northern China, with many national weather stations registering record-breaking daily high temperatures.
On Monday, the national commission for disaster prevention, reduction and relief responded to the severe rainstorm and flood disasters in Fujian and Guangdong provinces by initiating a Level 4 emergency response, the lowest in a four-tier system.
Task forces were deployed to the disaster-affected regions to assist relief efforts and ensure that the basic living needs of residents are met.
Five people died and 15 others were missing after heavy rainfall hit multiple areas in Meizhou, Guangdong province, starting on Sunday, and led to power outages, internet disruptions and waterlogging.
Rainstorms have also resulted in four deaths and two people missing in Wuping county, Fujian province, as of Monday. In the province's Shanghang county, rain-triggered floods killed four people as of Tuesday.
Chen Tao, chief forecaster at the National Meteorological Centre, said that because the western Pacific subtropical high-pressure system gradually strengthened and moved northward starting on Tuesday, precipitation in Fujian and Guangdong will significantly decrease.
However, from Tuesday through the end of the month, the central and lower reaches of the Yangtze River will experience concentrated rainfall.
Parts of the region will receive precipitation of more than 300mm, which is more than twice the usual amount for the same period in a typical year, Chen said.
Jia Xiaolong, deputy director of the National Climate Center, said the lagging effect of the El Nino phenomenon may result in comparatively bad summer climate conditions, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent and floods being more prevalent than droughts.
Precipitation levels in the eastern monsoon region are expected to be higher than usual, and regional and episodic flooding disasters will be prominent.
The Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs announced on Tuesday the allocation of 443 million yuan ($61 million) to seven provinces in northern, central and eastern China — Hebei, Henan, Shandong, Shanxi, Shaanxi Jiangsu and Anhui — in response to drought-induced damage to crops caused by prolonged heat and insufficient rainfall.
The funds will be primarily used to provide subsidies for agricultural drought-resistant measures such as watering, soil moisture replenishment, crop conversion and additional fertilization to ensure the successful completion of the critical summer sowing stage.
Wang Weiyue, a meteorological analyst at Weather China, warned of a sudden shift between drought conditions and flooding.
As the rain belt moves northward, some areas in southern China will experience less precipitation and hotter temperatures.
Meanwhile, areas of southern and eastern Hubei, central and northern Anhui and Jiangsu, which were previously affected by drought conditions, will see frequent rainfall in the next two weeks, Wang said.
Preparations should be made in these areas to prevent secondary disasters such as mountain floods, landslides, debris flows, and floods in small and medium-sized rivers, he added. - China Daily/ANN | AseanPlus | China | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | China,response,floods,drought,President Xi Jinping | BEIJING: President Xi Jinping has urged an all-out response to the recent floods and drought conditions that have hit different regions across the country, saying that utmost efforts must be made in the search for and rescue of missing and trapped individuals and the resettlement of affected residents. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/xi-urges-all-out-response-to-floods-drought-in-china | |
1,374,550 | Li Qiang accorded official welcome at Dataran Perdana | PUTRAJAYA: China's Premier Li Qiang, who is on a three-day official visit to Malaysia, was given an official welcoming ceremony at Dataran Perdana, here Wednesday (June 19).
Li, who arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday (June 18) for his maiden visit to the country since assuming the post in March last year, was received by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim upon his arrival at the venue at 9.30am, before the national anthems of both countries were played.
Li then inspected a guard of honour mounted by three officers and 103 members of the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment.
Also present at the ceremony were both Deputy Prime Ministers, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Cabinet ministers, foreign diplomats and senior government officials.
Li and Anwar then held a meeting to discuss bilateral relations between Malaysia and China and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.
The two leaders will also witness the exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding and agreements in various areas of cooperation including digital economy, green development, tourism, housing and urbanisation development, higher education, science and technology and the export of agri-commodities to China.
Li arrived at the Bunga Raya Complex in KL International Airport (KLIA), Sepang at 8.44pm Tuesday night.
In 2023, China remained Malaysia's largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009, with a trade volume of RM450.84bil (US$98.90bil). - Bernama
China's Premier Li Qiang inspecting the guard of honour. — Photo: GLENN GUAN / The Star | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | China,Li Qiang,official welcoming,Anwar Ibrahim,official visit | PUTRAJAYA: China's Premier Li Qiang, who is on a three-day official visit to Malaysia, was given an official welcoming ceremony at Dataran Perdana, here Wednesday (June 19). | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/li-qiang-accorded-official-welcome-at-dataran-perdana | |
1,374,546 | Perak govt to curb misinformation on diesel subsidy implementation | IPOH: The state government will ask relevant agencies to monitor social media platforms following the implementation of the targeted diesel subsidy to ensure that no false information is disseminated.
Perak Communications, Multimedia and NGO Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi said it was a reminder to ensure that the people are not misinformed.
"Strict action will be taken," he said.
He said this after officiating at the International Muaythai Competition at Huat Tian Keong Temple Hall on Tuesday night (June 18).
About 1,000 spectators attended the competition, which included 14 participants from Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Iran, Singapore, and South Korea.
Meanwhile, Mohd Azlan said the state government is also advising the public to be careful and make appropriate judgments in understanding the government's actions regarding the subsidy.
"What this government is actually doing is to prevent smuggling and return the subsidy to more important areas, especially in the aspects of development, health and education," he said.
Meanwhile, he said any individual who is eligible but fails to get the diesel subsidy can submit an appeal with evidence to the relevant agency.
On June 9, the government announced that the retail price of diesel would be RM3.35 per litre starting June 10 in the Peninsula, while in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, it will remain at RM2.15 per litre. – BERNAMA | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Mohd Azlan Helmi,Muaythai,Diesel,Social Media Monitor | IPOH: The state government will ask relevant agencies to monitor social media platforms following the implementation of the targeted diesel subsidy to ensure that no false information is disseminated. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/perak-govt-to-curb-misinformation-on-diesel-subsidy-implementation | |
1,374,544 | Japan govt to urge social media operators to strengthen screening of Ads following rapid rise in online scams | TOKYO: In response to a sharp increase in fraudulent advertisements on social media using the names and images of prominent figures without their consent to solicit investments or for other purposes, the government intends to urge social media operators to strengthen their screening of ads to be posted.
The move is the main part of comprehensive measures across government ministries and agencies.
The decision was made Tuesday (June 18) at a ministerial meeting on measures against crime.
Fake ads on social media have become a gateway to investment fraud, causing harm.
The government is considering urging social media platforms, such as Meta Platforms Inc., which operates Facebook, to enhance their screening of ads, with the aim of working with the public sector to deter harm.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said at the meeting, “I hope you will make thorough efforts with strong determination to protect the public from fraud.”
According to the National Police Agency, damage caused by fraud doubled last year from the previous year to about 163 billion.
Damage due to social media-related fraud from January to April this year totaled about 33.4 billion, exceeding the about 27.8 billion during a one-year period last year.
The comprehensive measures include requesting social media operators to formulate and publish their screening standards for ads to be posted.
Operators are also requested to improve their screening systems by assigning to the task a sufficient number of personnel who understand the Japanese language and Japanese laws and regulations, and to strengthen the identification of advertisers.
The government is also requesting operators to promptly remove ads that have been used in fraudulent ways.
In addition, since there have been many cases of people being deceived after being led to group chats with limited users, operators are requested that ads that are set up to lead users to such chats not be adopted, in principle.
In addition to Meta, the request is expected to be directed at other operators, including Line operator LY Corp.
Meanwhile, the harm of so-called romance fraud, in which victims are tricked into having romantic feelings over social media so the perpetrator can swindle them out of cash, is also a serious problem.
The comprehensive measures request that the operators of dating apps, which are the main means of contact in the fraud, strictly verify the identity of users when they open accounts.
In addition, as a measure against special fraud, the means of identification when signing a mobile phone contract will, in principle, be unified to My Number personal identification cards.
Since counterfeit My Number cards have been misused for fraudulent contracts, the government will promote an electronic verification method that reads IC chip information.
The ministerial meetings on measures against crime were established in 2003 to address the deteriorating public security situation, and Tuesday’s meeting was the 39th. - The Japan News/ANN | AseanPlus | Japan | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Japan,govt,social media,screen,advertisements,rise,online scams | TOKYO: In response to a sharp increase in fraudulent advertisements on social media using the names and images of prominent figures without their consent to solicit investments or for other purposes, the government intends to urge social media operators to strengthen their screening of ads to be posted. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/japan-govt-to-urge-social-media-operators-to-strengthen-screening-of-ads-following-rapid-rise-in-online-scams | |
1,374,542 | Ulu Tiram attack: Five of slain suspect's family members to be charged in court today | JOHOR BARU: Five family members of the suspect in the shooting incident that killed two policeman at the Ulu Tiram police station on May 17 will be charged on Wednesday (June 19).
The Johor police contingent, in a statement Tuesday (June 18) night, said the five would be charged at the Sessions Court here.
On May 24, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said the five, aged from 19 to 62 years old, were detained under the Security Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012 (Sosma) after their remand ended.
On Friday (June 14), the two policemen killed in the attack on the Ulu Tiram police station on May 17 were posthumously promoted to the rank of Corporal.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said constables Ahmad Azza Fahmi Azhar, 22, and Muhamad Syafiq Ahmad Said, 24, were given posthumous promotions and their families each received compensation of RM216,632 and RM213,586, respectively, which includes funeral assistance, the government's share of Employees Provident Fund contributions, and other benefits.
Saifuddin said three other policemen from the Ulu Tiram police station involved in the incident received field promotions - Corporal Mohd Hasif Roslan was promoted to Sergeant, while Constable Mohd Khairul Azhar Abbi Paisa and Lance Corporal Muhammad Aznel Salleh were each promoted to Corporal.
Saifuddin Nasution said the brave actions of the officers involved in the incident showed the effectiveness of the training received by policemen. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | JOHOR BARU: Five family members of the suspect in the shooting incident that killed two policeman at the Ulu Tiram police station on May 17 will be charged on Wednesday (June 19). | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/ulu-tiram-attack-five-of-slain-suspect039s-family-members-to-be-charged-in-court-today | |
1,374,532 | Putin arrives in Pyongyang for summit with Kim | PYONGYANG: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang on Wednesday (June 19) in his first trip to North Korea in 24 years as he is set to hold a summit with leader Kim Jong-un in a show of their deepening relations.
Putin began his state visit to Pyongyang early Wednesday morning (Korea time), amid growing concerns that burgeoning bilateral defense cooperation would help prop up Russia's war operations in Ukraine and enhance North Korea's weapons programs to the detriment of regional and global peace.
Kim and the Russian leader greeted each other with a hug at the airport, photos carried by North Korea's state media showed -- a spectacle underscoring their growing bond that has jelled in the midst of crippling international sanctions against their countries and their diplomatic isolation on the global stage.
Hours after his arrival, the North's official Korean Central News Agency said Kim "shook hands with Putin and embraced him warmly, expressing his joy and gladness to meet him again" following their summit at the Vostochny spaceport last September.
The two leaders rode together in Putin's vehicle to Kumsusan State Guest House. On their way there, the leaders exchanged their "pent-up inmost thoughts and opened their minds to more surely develop the DPRK-Russia relations," the KCNA said.
DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
"Putin's visit to the DPRK at a remarkable time, when the traditional relations of friendship and cooperation between the DPRK and Russia have surely entered a course of new comprehensive development, is of great importance in reliably promoting the strategic and future-oriented development of the DPRK-Russia relations," the KCNA said.
Putin last visited Pyongyang in July 2000, when he met with then North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, the late father of the current leader. This week's visit comes nine months after the current North Korean leader had a summit with Putin in Russia's Far East in September.
Yuri Ushakov, Putin's foreign policy aide, has told TASS that the summit between Kim and Putin may produce a treaty on a "comprehensive strategic partnership," a document expected to accelerate and broaden the two countries' cooperation.
Since the summit in September, Pyongyang and Moscow have been strengthening their security partnership in ways reminiscent of their countries' Cold War-era camaraderie.
Washington has revealed that the North has supplied Russia with dozens of ballistic missiles and more than 11,000 containers of munitions for use in Ukraine.
In return, the North has been seeking assistance from Moscow, including fighter aircraft, surface-to-air missiles, armored vehicles and ballistic missile production equipment, according to US officials.
As Putin arrived in the North, the White House reiterated concerns about military ties between Pyongyang and Moscow.
"Deepening cooperation between Russia and the DPRK is a trend that should be of great concern to anyone interested in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, upholding the global nonproliferation regime, abiding by the UN Security Council resolutions and supporting the people of Ukraine as they defend for their freedom and their independence against Russia's aggression," White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre told a press briefing.
DPRK stands for the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
Analysts said Kim and Putin may adopt a joint declaration that calls for both sides to elevate the level of military, security and economic cooperation, but they saw a low possibility of them clinching a treaty akin to a military alliance.
The two sides are also expected to highlight cooperation in the economic sector, as their arms deals and military cooperation constitute a violation of UN Security Council resolutions banning Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, according to observers.
In an article published Tuesday by the Rodong Sinmun, the North's main newspaper, Putin said Russia has a plan to build trade and settlement systems with North Korea that will not be controlled by Western countries.
Following his trip to Pyongyang, Putin will fly to Vietnam for another state visit. - The Korea Herald/ANN | AseanPlus | North Korea | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | North Korea,Putin,arrives,Pyongyang,summit,Kim Jong-un | PYONGYANG: Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Pyongyang on Wednesday (June 19) in his first trip to North Korea in 24 years as he is set to hold a summit with leader Kim Jong-un in a show of their deepening relations. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/putin-arrives-in-pyongyang-for-summit-with-kim | |
1,374,524 | Ringgit gains against US$ in early trade | KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit extended its gains to open better against the US dollar in early trade today as the greenback weakened amid growing anticipation of a global interest rate cut this year, an economist said.
At 9 am, the ringgit rose to 4.7080/7130 versus the greenback from yesterday’s close of 4.7110/7155.
Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the ringgit is likely to strengthen on the chance that a lower US interest rate will reduce rate differentials between the Fed Fund Rate and overnight policy rate.
It was reported that Federal Reserve governor Adriana Kugler in her speech on Tuesday noted that it will be appropriate for the central bank to lower its interest rate later this year as economic conditions are moving in the right direction.
On that note, Afzanizam said the local currency has trended upwards against other regional currencies.
"Perhaps, the policy reform such as the diesel subsidy rationalisation may have contributed positively to the ringgit’s strength," he told Bernama.
Meanwhile, the ringgit was traded lower against a basket of major currencies in early trade.
The local unit decreased versus the Japanese yen to 2.9818/9852 from Tuesday’s close of 2.9798/9828, depreciated vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.9810/9874 from 5.9750/9807 and weakened against the euro to 5.0555/0608 from 5.0492/0541 previously.
The local unit traded mixed against its ASEAN peers.
It was better vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah at 286.8/287.2 from 287.0/287.3 at Tuesday’s close and strengthened against the Philippine peso to 8.02/8.04 from 8.03/8.05.
It went down against the Singapore dollar to 3.4838/4878 from 3.4793/4829 yesterday and fell versus the Thai baht to 12.8322/8507 from 12.7874/8048. - Bernama | Business | Forex | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Forex,Ringgit,US dollar,Bank Muamalat,Afzanizam Abdul Rashid,Federal Reserve | KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit extended its gains to open better against the US dollar in early trade today as the greenback weakened amid growing anticipation of a global interest rate cut this year, an economist said. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/19/ringgit-gains-against-us-in-early-trade | |
1,374,517 | Think you saw a police car? Nah, it’s a ‘polite’ car | SINGAPORE: From a distance, the multipurpose vehicle (MPV) is easily mistaken for a police patrol vehicle or an ambulance, but on closer inspection, the words on the vehicle say “polite”, not “police”.
Scan the QR code printed on the walls of the MPV, and you are taken to the website of an ice-cream shop.
The MPV has caught the eye of motorists, who put up photos of the “Polite Car” on the SG Road Vigilante Facebook page on June 15.
Netizens were divided in their views of the initiative, with some in the comments section suggesting that it is a good idea, while others say it is “intentionally misleading” because it looks like a police car.
Speaking to The Straits Times, the owner of the vehicle, businessman Goh Yong Wei, 32, said that since he pasted the decal on his Toyota Alphard in May, other motorists have been slowing down to give way to him on the road.
He said: “As a driver and motorbike rider in Singapore, I find that the driving culture here is not gracious, especially during peak hours.
“I want to be noticed, I want the attention, I want people to see me and slow down to avoid a collision.” Goh said this is not the first time he has decorated his vehicle with decals.
He previously owned a motorbike that sported white fairings – a protective shell placed over the frame of a motorcycle that also aids with aerodynamics – with blue and red stripes.
Goh said he has been involved in more than 10 car and bike accidents in the past four years, and he added that these decals help him prevent another accident.
He said: “I feel safer, and find it easier to drive around now. A lot of people in their cars giggle and show me a thumbs up. It makes for a very positive driving experience for me.”
A QR code was added to direct people to his ice-cream shop’s website, and he records about 20 scans daily.
According to information found on the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) website, the LTA does not object to sticker advertisements or decals being displayed on vehicles – as long as they meet a list of requirements.
These include graphics and words that are not pornographic, obscene or vulgar, nor should they be seditious or offensive to any religion.
In response to queries, the police said a report was lodged and investigations are ongoing. - The Straits Times/ANN | AseanPlus | Singapore | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Singapore,polite car,MPV,vigilante | SINGAPORE: From a distance, the multipurpose vehicle (MPV) is easily mistaken for a police patrol vehicle or an ambulance, but on closer inspection, the words on the vehicle say “polite”, not “police”. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/think-you-saw-a-police-car-nah-its-a-polite-car | |
1,374,513 | S’pore reclaims top spot in world competitiveness ranking after three years | SINGAPORE: After being adrift for the past three years, Singapore climbed three rungs and regained the top spot in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking in 2024 against a field of 67.
“Singapore’s performance marks a return to form; last occupying first place in 2020, it then fell to fifth, third, and finally fourth in the following years, while Denmark and Switzerland performed a tussle for power over the top spot,” said the Switzerland-based International Institute for Management Development (IMD), which produces the benchmark based on 333 competitiveness criteria.
Coming in ahead of Switzerland and Denmark, the Republic posted robust performances across all four categories that comprise economic performance, government efficiency, business efficiency and infrastructure.
Among these, Singapore stood out for business efficiency by clinching the top spot among its peers on the index for the underlying factors of labour market – up three spots – and attitudes and values with a 12-position climb. It also shot up 21 rungs to the No. 2 spot in terms of management practices.
The Republic also took pole position in technological infrastructure, boosting its standing to No. 4 in the overall infrastructure category, from No. 9 previously.
It ranked No. 2 in terms of government efficiency after climbing five spots from seventh place, boosted by societal framework (up nine spots to No. 11) and public finance (up five to No. 4).
On the flip side, the Republic’s economic performance stagnated at No. 3, dragged down by an 11-rung decline by prices to 62, and a three-spot fall in employment to No. 5.
Associate Professor Jamus Lim from Essec Business School noted that Singapore’s traditional strengths lie in “an efficient government, ease of doing business, and world-class infrastructure also continued to propel its overall performance”.
However, he said the high costs of living here is specifically an area of concern, “where Singapore placed 62nd out of the 67”.
“Many other areas where Singapore exhibits weaknesses – such as rental prices, cost of transport, compensation of management and employees, and health expenditures – are directly or indirectly linked to it,” Prof Lim said.
“This becomes the primary challenge for policymakers, not only because high prices and costs weigh on Singapore’s competitiveness, but also because of its implications on people’s confidence in the economy.”
On Singapore’s high prices, NUS Business School professor in strategy and policy Lawrence Loh said: “This is expected of a land-scarce country.”
With price levels just one of the inevitable constraints on the economy and with regional economies relentlessly continuing to advance and narrow the Republic’s lead, “Singapore cannot rest on its laurels”, he added.
IMD’s ranking analysed survey responses from more than 6,600 C-suite executives and mid-level managers from the 67 economies polled between March and May 2024, and 164 pieces of statistical data.
A key finding was that size did not matter in economic competitiveness, with the top 10 spots dominated by smaller economies.
Notably, second-placed Switzerland rose one rank from its third placing in 2023 amid better economic performance and business efficiency as well as its continued lead in government efficiency and infrastructure.
It was followed by Denmark, which slipped to third in 2024, down from first following a decline in economic performance, but researchers said the shift was “insignificant” as the country remained a poster child of competitive economies.
Ireland was No. 2 in 2023, but fell to fourth spot in 2024.
NUS’ Prof Loh noted that Singapore stood out on sub-factors “related to policy and cultural aspects”. For example, Singapore’s labour market shines in aspects such as remuneration management, worker participation and foreign talent attraction, he said.
“The country also does extremely well in terms of attitudes and values, which include accommodating views on globalisation, flexibility and adaptability, along with a value system that supports competitiveness.”
Prof Lim noted: “Wage growth has barely kept pace with overall inflation, and if anything, I would like to see real wages continue to rise this year and next, to offset the loss in purchasing power of the population.
“But productivity needs to pick up the slack, hopefully from gains that emerge from a wider roll-out of artificial intelligence into the economy.”
He cautioned that the takeaway from this report should not be to conclude that the solution to keeping costs down is by suppressing wages. - The Straits Times/ANN | AseanPlus | Singapore | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Singapore,reclaims,top spot,world competitiveness,ranking | SINGAPORE: After being adrift for the past three years, Singapore climbed three rungs and regained the top spot in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking in 2024 against a field of 67. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/spore-reclaims-top-spot-in-world-competitiveness-ranking-after-three-years | |
1,374,510 | Industry players gave assurances of sufficient egg supply before price drop, says Fuziah | PETALING JAYA: The government received assurances from industry players that the supply of eggs in the market was sufficient before announcing the reduction of egg prices by 3sen for Grades A, B and C, says Fuziah Salleh.
The Deputy Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister told Malay language daily Sinar Harian that the production of eggs has been stable.
"Before the announcement was made, we met with industry players and receives assurances that there were enough eggs in the country.
"That was their promise to the government," she told Sinar Harian on Tuesday (June 18).
She was responding to Bumiputera Retailers Association president Datuk Dr Ameer Ali Mydin who was reported as saying that the government should increase the supply of subsidised eggs on the market, and not reduce its retail price.
Fuziah also said that Malaysia had achieved 100% self-sufficiency in terms of egg production in the country.
"Some 60% of production involves Grade A, B and C eggs, while the rest involves eggs such as Omega," Sinar Harian reported her as saying.
On Monday (June 17), the retail price of Grade A, B, and C eggs across the country was reduced by 3sen as part of the government’s new subsidy initiative.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the new prices for Grade A, B, and C eggs was set at 42sen, 40sen, and 38sen per egg, respectively.
He noted that the subsidy provision would involve government expenditure of around RM100mil, covering as much as 10sen per egg. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Eggs,Supply,Prices,Subsidy,Fuziah Salleh,Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry | PETALING JAYA: The government received assurances from industry players that the supply of eggs in the market was sufficient before announcing the reduction of egg prices by 3sen for Grades A, B and C, says Fuziah Salleh. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/industry-players-gave-assurances-of-sufficient-egg-supply-before-price-drop-says-fuziah | |
1,374,509 | FBM KLCI to continue consolidation, oil and gold counters rally | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI could be seeing further consolidation above the 1,600 psychological level in the absence of fresh catalysts, said Apex Securities Research.
As for the lower liners, the research firm anticipates a similar pattern although bargain-hunting activities may take place over the near term.
It said investors will be looking ahead to key economic announcements including US industrial production data, manufacturing production and retail sales data as well as EU inflation rate to gauge any weaknesses within the economy.
"We expect trading interest to flow towards oil and gas stocks with Brent oil prices rising above US$80/bbl.
"Meanwhile, the firmer gold prices due to expectation of reduce interest rate may warrant a look onto gold-related stocks," said the research firm in its outlook.
Meanwhile, it said the technology sector may also mirror the positive performance on Nasdaq overnight.
At the open, the FBM KLCI was up 2.34 points to 1,608.47, as the index continued to move closely to the 14-day simple moving average.
Blue chips with an early lead included Telekom up 16 sen to RM6.97, PPB gaining 12 sen to RM14.62 and PETRONAS Chemicals rising five sen to RM6.56.
Gold-related counters were also on the rise, including Poh Kong up six sen to RM1.23 and Tomei gaining four sen to RM1.80.
Hibiscus Petroleum climbed four sen to RM2.48 on the back of the increase in crude oil prices.
Of actives, KTI was flat at 30 sen, Ingenieur unchanged at seven sen and Dnex up 0.5 sen to 50.5 sen. | Business | Markets | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Markets,Bursa Malaysia,FBM KLCI,equities,trading,investor,commodity,stocks | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI could be seeing further consolidation above the 1,600 psychological level in the absence of fresh catalysts, said Apex Securities Research. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/19/fbm-klci-to-continue-consolidation-oil-and-gold-counters-rally | |
1,374,346 | Caterer queried over fatal food poisoning | KUALA LUMPUR: Police have recorded statements from 15 people, including the caterer, in its investigation into the deaths of a 17-year-old boy and a two-year-old girl, suspected to be due to food poisoning on June 8.
Gombak police chief Asst Comm Noor Ariffin Mohamad Nasir said those called to assist in the investigation were family members, a pathologist, food provider and supplier, Bernama reported.
“This brings the total number of individuals whose statements have been recorded so far to 15, and statements from other food poisoning victims will be recorded on Tuesday,” he said in a statement.
Previously, the Selangor Health Department said 82 out of 247 people were found to have symptoms of food poisoning after eating food at the Gombak district-level ‘Kemahiran Amal Islami’ programme involving 30 primary schools. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Police,Gombak,Food Poisoning | KUALA LUMPUR: Police have recorded statements from 15 people, including the caterer, in its investigation into the deaths of a 17-year-old boy and a two-year-old girl, suspected to be due to food poisoning on June 8. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/caterer-queried-over-fatal-food-poisoning | |
1,374,347 | Sabah closer to having smart meters | SESB: Tender applications being studied, decision on supplier soon
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) is a step closer to implementing smart meters to record the use of electricity in business premises and houses here.
Its chairman Datuk Seri Madius Tangau (pic) said a tender was opened on April 16 and closed on June 12 for companies wanting to supply smart meters.
“The tender applications are being analysed before they are tabled at the tender management committee and then at the procurement and finance committee of the SESB board,” he said yesterday.
Prior to this, National Consumer Foundation Sabah chairman David Chan said SESB should start using smart meters as this is a more efficient and convenient way of tracking and recording power usage, as opposed to conventional methods.
He said smart meters provide real-time data on energy consumption, allowing consumers to monitor their usage more effectively and make informed decisions about their energy use.
This convenience helps consumers manage their energy bills better and avoid unexpected high charges, he added.
Chan said smart meters can ensure more accurate billing by providing precise and timely data, reducing the likelihood of billing errors, thus building trust between consumers and utility providers.
This can also encourage more efficient energy use, potentially leading to lower overall consumption and cost savings if consumers were given detailed insights into their energy consumption patterns, he added.
“The environmental benefits are reduced energy consumption, which also means a lower environmental impact and contributing to sustainability efforts,” he said.
It would also enhance grid management for utility companies as smart meters facilitate better demand management and quicker identification of issues such as outages or faults, improving overall service reliability, said Chan.
He said implementing smart meters in Sabah would likely involve a significant investment in infrastructure and technology, but the long-term benefits for both consumers and the environment would be substantial.
“This reflects the potential advantages and the growing demand for modernisation in utility services,” he added.
Meanwhile, Tangau urged consumers to download the mySESB mobile application to not only get access to their billing details, make online payments, and get latest updates and notifications, but to also file complaints or reports and get updates on their complaint status. | News | Sabah & Sarawak | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Sabah & Sarawak | KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) is a step closer to implementing smart meters to record the use of electricity in business premises and houses here. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/sabah-closer-to-having-smart-meters | |
1,374,349 | RCI presents report on sovereignty issue to King | KUALA LUMPUR: The latest report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to study the sovereignty issues over Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and South Ledge was presented to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
A post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s Facebook page stated that the report was presented by RCI chairman Tun Md Raus Sharif to His Majesty at Istana Negara yesterday during an audience lasting nearly an hour, Bernama reported.
In February, the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department announced that Sultan Ibrahim had consented to the immediate establishment of the commission.
The RCI’s formation was carried out under the Commissions of Enquiry Act 1950 (Act 119).
On May 23, 2008, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that Singapore has sovereignty over Batu Puteh, while Middle Rocks, located less than 1km away, belongs to Malaysia.
The ICJ also ruled that ownership rights over South Ledge, approximately 4km from Batu Puteh, would be determined according to the maritime boundaries of the controlling country.
On Feb 2, 2017, Malaysia applied for a review of the ICJ’s decision of May 23, 2008.
However, in May 2018, the Pakatan Harapan government under Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad withdrew the application just two weeks before the scheduled hearing on June 11, 2018.
On Feb 27, this year, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said the establishment of the RCI was aimed at finding a resolution and moving forward with improvements regarding issues involving national sovereignty, rather than assigning blame to any party.
She emphasised that Malaysians, especially in Johor, deserve an explanation of the reasons and factors behind the decision not to pursue the Application for Review and Request for Interpretation at the ICJ concerning the sovereignty over Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and South Ledge.
On June 12, Dr Mahathir testified during the closed-door proceedings of the RCI. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | King,Sultan Ibrahim,RCI,Batu Puteh,ICJ,latest report | KUALA LUMPUR: The latest report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) to study the sovereignty issues over Batu Puteh, Middle Rocks and South Ledge was presented to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/rci-presents-report-on-sovereignty-issue-to-king | |
1,374,363 | Driver denies molesting woman | KUALA LUMPUR: A man whose video went viral for allegedly touching a woman’s buttocks at a home improvement store in Selayang last week has been charged in the Magistrate’s Court.
Irwan Iesa, 38, an ehailing driver, pleaded not guilty after the charge was read out to him before Magistrate Aina Azahra Ariffin yesterday.
He was accused of using criminal force to outrage the modesty of a 38-year-old woman by touching and poking her buttocks with his finger at the shop in Selayang around 2pm on June 4, Bernama reported.
If convicted, the offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine, whipping, or any two of such punishments.
Deputy public prosecutor Izzat Amir Idham proposed bail of RM7,000 with one surety, while Gan Sing Gee from the National Legal Aid Foundation, representing the accused, requested a lower bail as the accused’s wife is heavily pregnant.
The court granted bail at RM5,000 with one surety and set Aug 10 for re-mention. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,court,outrage modesty,criminal force,e-hailing driver | KUALA LUMPUR: A man whose video went viral for allegedly touching a woman’s buttocks at a home improvement store in Selayang last week has been charged in the Magistrate’s Court. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/driver-denies-molesting-woman | |
1,374,358 | SLS gets nod for judicial review | Sabah state’s constitutional rights to receive 40% of its special grant revenue
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Law Society (SLS) has been allowed to proceed with a judicial review on the state’s constitutional rights to receive 40% of its special grant revenue.
In dismissing an appeal by the federal Attorney-General against a lower court’s decision to grant leave for a judicial review to the SLS, a three-member Court of Appeal panel decided that the SLS had the locus standi for the judicial review.
Justice Datuk Ravinthran Paramuguru said the main issues raised by the Senior Federal Counsel (SFC) lacked merit given the factual and legal matrix of this unprecedented judicial review application.
“We unanimously dismiss the appeal. If this matter is not taken up further by the appellant, we direct the High Court to fix a date for the full hearing of the judicial review application,” he said via Zoom yesterday.
He gave no order as to costs, seeing that this is a public interest case.
Prior to handing out the decision, Ravinthran said the SLS had, at the very least, established a threshold locus standi.
He said the instant judicial review application was clearly a public interest litigation meant for the benefit of a section of the public, and not taken to seek redress for a personal wrong or grievance of the SLS.
“It is taken to purportedly vindicate a constitutional right accorded to Sabah and therefore by extension, for the benefit of the people of Sabah.”
Whether there was merit in the application or not, he said that it was a matter that should be addressed in the full hearing.
Ravinthran said it would be a retrograde step to shut out SLS from voicing the issue on the grounds of locus standi.
On the SFC’s issue about justiciability of the case, Ravinthran said the Court of Appeal is not persuaded by their arguments that the matter of the judicial review application is not justiciable.
The case revolves around Kota Kinabalu High Court’s decision to grant SLS the right (locus standi) to apply for judicial review against both the federal and Sabah governments in the lawsuit, which seeks to compel the return of 40% of federal revenue earned from Sabah.
On Nov 11, 2022, Justice Ismail Brahim granted SLS application for leave for the judicial review. The judge ruled that SLS had the locus standi to do so as it was a public interest litigation.
Justice Ismail also found that the SLS case concerned a breach of constitutional duty to pay the 40% entitlement for the “Lost Years” (1974-2021).
It seeks to declare that the new 2022 order agreed to by the Sabah government is unconstitutional and to compel both the federal and state governments to hold another review to include the 40% special grant paid to Sabah.
The Attorney-General at federal level was represented by SFCs Shamsul Bolhassan, Ahmad Hanir Hambaly @ Arwi and Krishna Priya Veenagopal @ Venugopal.
SLS was represented by David Fung Yin Kee, Jeyan Marimuttu and Janice Junie Lim.
Counsel Datuk Nor Asiah Mohd Yusof (Sabah Attorney-General) and Datuk Brenndon Keith Soh represented the state government. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Law Society (SLS) has been allowed to proceed with a judicial review on the state’s constitutional rights to receive 40% of its special grant revenue. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/sls-gets-nod-for-judicial-review | |
1,374,361 | Goldsmith shop loses millions to armed robbers | KUALA LUMPUR: A goldsmith shop at a shopping centre in Kajang has suffered losses of around RM3.2mil after being hit by armed robbers.
Kajang deputy police chief Supt Mohamad Nasir Drahman, who confirmed the incident, said seven people, including employees of the shop, have been questioned in the investigation so far.
“We will summon several other witnesses to provide statements soon,” he said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported.
Media reports said four masked men dressed as security guards and wearing gloves entered the shop at 3.17pm.
They smashed glass display cases using a hammer to steal the jewellery. They are also believed to have been carrying two pistols and a shotgun.
The suspects were also said to have fired a warning shot at a wall inside the shop before fleeing through the basement parking area. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime | KUALA LUMPUR: A goldsmith shop at a shopping centre in Kajang has suffered losses of around RM3.2mil after being hit by armed robbers. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/goldsmith-shop-loses-millions-to-armed-robbers | |
1,374,350 | Halim appeals decision to strike out suit against Dr M and govt | PUTRAJAYA: Businessman Tan Sri Halim Saad has filed an appeal against the High Court’s decision last month to dismiss his lawsuit against the government, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and former finance minister II Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop.
The lawsuit pertains to alleged losses he incurred following the government’s 2001 acquisition of shares in Renong Bhd and United Engineers Malaysia Bhd (UEM).
Halim Saad’s lawyer A. Surendra Ananth confirmed the filing of the appeal when contacted by Bernama.
According to the notice of appeal, Halim submitted the appeal on June 11 through his solicitor Messrs Surendra Ananth.
Meanwhile, a June 16 notice by the Court of Appeal notified parties that the court had scheduled Sept 9 for case management of the appeal via e-Review.
On May 9, the High Court allowed the applications by Dr Mahathir, Nor Mohamed and the government to strike out the lawsuit filed by the 71-year-old business tycoon.
Judicial Commissioner Dr Suzana Muhamad Said had held that Halim’s suit was time-barred and that its subject matter had been decided in a previous case.
On April 17, 2013, Halim filed a similar lawsuit against Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Nor Mohamed and the government seeking more than RM1.8bil in damages for selling his shares in Renong.
However, on Oct 31, that same year, the High Court allowed an application by Khazanah Nasional, Nor Mohamed and the government to strike out the suit on the grounds that Halim had filed it after a six-year time frame.
In 2014, Halim lost his appeal in the Court of Appeal. He then failed to reinstate the lawsuit following the Federal Court’s dismissal of his application to obtain leave to commence his appeal in the Federal Court in 2015.
In his statement of claim for the lawsuit against Dr Mahathir, Nor Mohamed and the government, Halim, the former executive chairman and director of Renong, asserted that he intended to make a general offer to privatise UEM as a subsidiary of Renong, which would have allowed him to gain full control and ownership of UEM.
Halim claimed that Dr Mahathir and Nor Mohamed instructed him not to proceed with the general offer because the government wanted to take over all the shares in UEM through a designated entity, namely Khazanah or a party to be nominated by Khazanah.Halim alleged that he was instructed to relinquish his positions as shareholder and director of UEM and Renong, as well as their subsidiaries, requiring him to hand over control of Renong and UEM to the government and sell his Renong shares at a loss.
He claimed that Khazanah had acquired all of UEM’s shares through its subsidiary, Danasaham Sdn Bhd, thereby gaining control over UEM, which at the time owned 32.6% of Renong shares.
Halim is claiming, among other things, compensation for the government’s forced takeover between July and October 2001 and a declaration that he is a Renong shareholder.
In their statement of defence, the defendants denied forcibly taking over the shareholding of the two companies. They asserted that the takeover was approved by Halim, who received RM165mil in compensation. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,Halim Saad,Mahathir Mohamad,Mohamed Yakcop,Government,Lawsuit,Renong,UEM,Court of Appeal | PUTRAJAYA: Businessman Tan Sri Halim Saad has filed an appeal against the High Court’s decision last month to dismiss his lawsuit against the government, former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and former finance minister II Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/halim-appeals-decision-to-strike-out-suit-against-dr-m-and-govt | |
1,374,348 | Li’s visit to enable deeper cooperation, says Tok Mat | SEREMBAN: The three-day visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Malaysia will further cement ties between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing and pave the way for both countries to better resolve outstanding issues, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (pic).
He said the visit would allow both countries to explore areas for collaboration and to further build on the 50 years of diplomatic ties established since 1974.
“Although this year marks the 50th anniversary of the two nations establishing diplomatic relations, we already had ties with China hundreds of years ago since the times of Hang Li Po and Admiral Cheng Ho.
“So, this is not new to us. What we need to work on is to see how we can further strengthen bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of the peoples of both countries,” he told reporters after launching the Kampung Angkat Madani programme at Kampung Kanchong in Rantau near here.
Mohamad said it was important for both countries to bolster cooperation as China was Malaysia’s biggest trading partner.
“China is also the world’s second largest economy and there are many areas that we can explore and discuss for mutual gain,” he said.
Li is scheduled to meet representatives from the business community and the chambers of commerce during his visit that ends tomorrow.
On another matter, Mohamad urged Malaysians abroad to register with Malaysian missions to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
He said this could be done online without having to be physically present at the mission.
“In some countries, we have more than one mission so it is good if you register so that we can contact you.
“If Malaysians do not register, then it can be difficult to trace them in the event there is an emergency,” the Foreign Minister said.
Wisma Putra, he said, would also seek the assistance of foreign missions, the police and Interpol to help Malaysians in predicaments abroad. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | SEREMBAN: The three-day visit by Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Malaysia will further cement ties between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing and pave the way for both countries to better resolve outstanding issues, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/lis-visit-to-enable-deeper-cooperation-says-tok-mat | |
1,374,380 | Priyanka Gandhi to make electoral debut in by-election | Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a scion of India’s Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, will make her electoral debut in a constituency recently won by her brother, Rahul Gandhi, a top leader with the opposition Indian National Congress party.
Vadra, 52, will contest the by-election in Wayanad in the southern state of Kerala to try and retain a parliamentary seat for the Congress party. Her brother, Rahul, won Wayanad and also Raebareli in the key northern state of Uttar Pradesh, in the recently concluded national elections. Indian political leaders often contest elections from more than one constituency but can represent only one in parliament.
“In the last five years, the people of Wayanad stood with me and gave me energy to fight in a very difficult time,” Rahul said.
He went on to express confidence in his sister’s ability to win the election, and said she would “be a very good representative for the people of Wayanad”.
While Vadra has been a star campaigner for the Congress party over the years, she has refrained from contesting elections. She was appointed as the Congress party’s general secretary in 2019.
Her electoral debut could reinforce the Gandhi family’s hold on the Congress party and further buoy an opposition that performed better than expected in the recent national elections.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party failed to win an outright majority for the first time in a decade and will have to rely on a coalition of parties to govern. The Congress party nearly doubled its tally of seats in parliament, winning 99 seats compared with 52 in 2019.
Should Vadra win Wayanad, all three key family members would hold seats in India’s parliament for the first time.
Vadra’s mother, Sonia Gandhi, is a member of the upper house of parliament. Vadra’s great-grandfather, grandmother and father were all prior prime ministers of India. — Bloomberg | AseanPlus | India | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | India | Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, a scion of India’s Nehru-Gandhi political dynasty, will make her electoral debut in a constituency recently won by her brother, Rahul Gandhi, a top leader with the opposition Indian National Congress party. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/priyanka-gandhi-to-make-electoral-debut-in-by-election | |
1,374,351 | M’sia and China to sign pact on housing, urban planning | PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China will sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in the fields of housing, urban planning, and smart cities, says the Housing and Local Government Minister.
Nga Kor Ming (pic) said the exchange of the MOU between his ministry and China’s Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development will be witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese Premier Li Qiang during the latter’s official three-day visit that begins today.
Following the signing of the MOU, Nga said the two countries would explore potential cooperation in smart housing, urban redevelopment, urban mobility, urban liveability, urban sustainability, and smart city profiling.
The countries are also expected to explore smart solutions and services for urban operations and management, smart construction and adaptation, and partnerships in the certification of smart cities, he said, reported Bernama.
“Through this MOU, both countries will benefit from expertise sharing, best practices, and collaboration in significant initiatives and projects,” added Nga.
He said Malaysia stands to gain the latest technology and expertise in housing and urban development from China.
This partnership has the potential to boost investment value, stimulate economic growth, and create new job opportunities while strengthening bilateral relations between Malaysia and China, he added. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and China will sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in the fields of housing, urban planning, and smart cities, says the Housing and Local Government Minister. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/msia-and-china-to-sign-pact-on-housing-urban-planning | |
1,374,356 | Ending subsidy abuse by foreigners | PM: Diesel price reform needed to save nation from financial drain
BUKIT MERTAJAM: The rise in fares by Singapore tour agencies has shown their long-standing reliance on Malaysian diesel subsidies, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said the diesel subsidy rationalisation was needed to save the country in preventing financial drain from misuse.
“Tour buses and travel companies from Singapore raised prices because they said they could not get diesel subsidies.
“This meant that they had been benefiting from our diesel subsidies for decades. Not only them, there were foreign fishermen and others at the country’s borders making use of our subsidies.
“Plenty of funds were leaking over the years,” he said during the Aidiladha Korban Perdana sacrificial ceremony at Masjid Jamek Cherok Tokun Bawah here yesterday.
The subsidies, said Anwar, were benefiting 3.8 million foreigners.
“It (diesel) was taken out to Thailand and used by Thai fishing boats.
“This is Malaysian taxpayers’ money but foreigners were reaping the benefits.
“The number of cars produced from 2012 to 2020 was small compared to the skyrocketing increase in diesel consumption because the fuel was enjoyed by foreigners,” he said.
Anwar also said there were bound to be teething problems in any subsidy rationalisation when first rolled out.
“If there are weaknesses, inform us and we will correct them. Those who have concerns or issues with it, let us know so that we can improve.
“When we start something, there will be flaws. Tell us so we can correct it rather than saying cruel things (about it),” he said.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, acknowledged that the move did affect the people but assured the Madani government would do its best to continue to provide subsidies to those deserving.
He said detractors had been attacking the government for implementing the diesel rationalisation instead of giving constructive criticisms.
“These subsidies are for the poor, the deserving. Those who deserve to get subsidies can apply for them.
“Those who use diesel, like fishermen, farmers, public transport operators, all of them can apply for subsidies.
“My duty is to safeguard the interests of the M40 and B40, so subsidies are for them only,” he added.
Later, when approached by the press, Anwar noted that the move affected companies bordering Malaysia which had illegally benefited from the diesel subsidies over the years.
“It will save us funds that have been misused by others.
“The savings from the diesel subsidy rationalisation would be returned to the people,” he reiterated.
On Monday, the Prime Minister said the government was still bearing around RM7bil in subsidies related to diesel in Peninsular Malaysia. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | diesel subsidies,fares,singapore tour agencies,prime minister,anwar ibrahim | BUKIT MERTAJAM: The rise in fares by Singapore tour agencies has shown their long-standing reliance on Malaysian diesel subsidies, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/ending-subsidy-abuse-by-foreigners | |
1,374,367 | Sacrificial buffalo runs ‘amok’, injures woman | KOTA KINABALU: A buffalo that was to be sacrificed in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha in a town outside the state capital broke free and started charging at people.
A woman, in her 40s, suffered a fractured leg during the incident that happened in Kampung Tobur in Rampayan, Menggatal, at 9.30am on Monday.
Earlier, villagers had gathered at the Ar-Rahman Surau for the celebration, with several mosque officials preparing for the sacrificial slaughter of five buffaloes when one managed to escape.
“As some villagers were moving the cattle for slaughter, one of the ropes snapped, causing the buffalo to break free.
“It then ran and circled the slaughter area, charging at villagers who were in the vicinity,” said the surau deputy chairman Ali Osman Ismail.
The injured victim was trying to shield her child when she was rammed by the animal, he added.
Earlier, two videos went viral, with one showing panicked villagers attempting to avoid the charging buffalo. | News | Sabah & Sarawak | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Sabah & Sarawak,sabah,menggatal,aidiladha,buffalo,slaughter | KOTA KINABALU: A buffalo that was to be sacrificed in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha in a town outside the state capital broke free and started charging at people. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/sacrificial-buffalo-runs-amok-injures-woman | |
1,374,382 | Striking doctors ordered to return to work | The South Korean government issued a return-to-work order for doctors as more doctors including medical professors join the months-long strike to protest increasing medical school admissions.
Around four percent of some 36,000 private clinics notified the government of plans to be closed yesterday to take part in the protest, Health Minister Cho Kyoo-hong said.
“To minimise the medical gap, the return-to-work order will be issued,” Cho told a briefing yesterday.
The government previously issued a return-to-work order to striking trainee doctors before withdrawing it earlier this month as an olive branch.
Under the law, doctors defying the return-to-work order can face suspension of their licences or other legal repercussions.
President Yoon Suk-yeol said the doctors’ strike was “regretful and disappointing”.
“(The government) has no choice but to sternly deal with the illegal acts neglecting patients,” Yoon said during a cabinet meeting, while offering to work together if the doctors return to work.
According to a survey by local pollster nownsurvey conducted last week, nearly eight in 10 South Koreans oppose the doctors’ strike.
Some doctors and medical staff have openly criticised the collective action in response to the government’s push for an increase in medical school admissions to address the shortage of doctors in the country.
Others have argued that increasing the number of doctors alone will do little to shore up essential services and rural areas grappling with a deepening shortage of doctors. — Reuters | AseanPlus | South Korea | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | South Korea | The South Korean government issued a return-to-work order for doctors as more doctors including medical professors join the months-long strike to protest increasing medical school admissions. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/striking-doctors-ordered-to-return-to-work | |
1,374,383 | Step up in rare earth race | Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited a lithium processing plant in resource-rich Western Australia state yesterday, highlighting China’s push to secure critical minerals as Washington tries to break Beijing’s supply dominance.
Western Australia supplies more than half of the world’s seaborne iron ore, with China its top customer, and half of its lithium used in electric vehicles, smartphones and other electronic devices.
Li’s visit to Australia, which began Sunday, is the first by a Chinese premier in seven years and marks a stabilisation in ties between the US ally and the world’s second-biggest economy.
While China has largely lifted suspensions imposed on US$20bil worth of Australian exports in 2020, it continues to express concerns about obstacles to Chinese investment in Australia’s vast resources industry.
Critical minerals including rare earths have become an area of intense competition between China and the US, which sees Australia’s deposits as a way to break China’s grip on global supply.
Australia last month blocked several Chinese investors from increasing stakes in a rare earths miner on national interest grounds, and last year blocked the acquisition of a lithium mine by Chinese interests.
The US this year extended its support for the first time to back two Australian-listed rare earths projects to help build out the supply chain.
Li said on Monday that China hoped Australia would provide “a fair, just and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises”, and told the business roundtable the two countries benefit from each other’s development.
Cooperation was important for stabilising industrial supply chains and boosting economic growth, Li said, according to Chinese state news agency Xinhua.
Albanese told the Australian and Chinese executives that three-quarters of Australia’s exports to China come from Western Australia.
He also said his government wants to create jobs in critical minerals processing, refining and manufacturing, and sell to a broader range of markets.
“Our commitment to investing in local manufacturing doesn’t mean cutting trade ties or pulling-up the economic drawbridge. Far from it,” he said. — Reuters | AseanPlus | China | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | China | Chinese Premier Li Qiang visited a lithium processing plant in resource-rich Western Australia state yesterday, highlighting China’s push to secure critical minerals as Washington tries to break Beijing’s supply dominance. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/step-up-in-rare-earth-race | |
1,374,373 | S’pore second most expensive city for expats, says global report | Regional finance hubs Hong Kong and Singapore have topped a new global list of the world’s most expensive cities for expatriates, keeping Swiss destinations from the top spots for the second year in a row.
High rental costs saw the rival cities beat Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Bern to the top of the table, according to Mercer’s 2024 Cost of Living report.
New York fell one spot to land in seventh place. London took eighth place, rising nine spots since last year’s ranking.
Mercer’s report said rising housing costs and “volatile inflation trends” were putting pressure on expat workers’ compensation packages.
“Cost-of-living challenges have had a significant impact on multinational organisations and their employees,” said Yvonne Traber, Mercer’s global mobility leader, in a press release.
“High living costs may cause assignees to adjust their lifestyle, cut back on discretionary spending or even struggle to meet their basic needs,” Traber said.
“To offset these challenges, employers can offer compensation packages that include housing allowances or subsidies or provide other support services.”
Mercer measured the comparative cost of more than 200 items and services – including housing, transport, food, clothing and household goods – to come up with its ranking of 226 cities. — Bloomberg | AseanPlus | Singapore | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Singapore | Regional finance hubs Hong Kong and Singapore have topped a new global list of the world’s most expensive cities for expatriates, keeping Swiss destinations from the top spots for the second year in a row. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/spore-second-most-expensive-city-for-expats-says-global-report | |
1,374,340 | Man sells underage daughter off for marriage | Compiled by C. ARUNO, BENJAMIN LEE and R. ARAVINTHAN
A MAN in Pakistan sold his 12-year-old daughter for 500,000 rupees (RM8,453) to a 72-year-old senior citizen who wanted a wife, Malaysia Nanban reported.
But when the elderly man asked for the girl’s hand in marriage, the police intervened and put a stop to it.
The old man was arrested and charged along with an accomplice who was apparently officiating the marriage. The girl’s father ran away.
Child marriages are against the law in the South Asian nation, but many such nuptials are still occurring.
Authorities in Pakistan have cracked down on at least three cases of child marriages in recent weeks.
These involved a 40-something man trying to marry an 11-year-old girl in Punjab, a 50-year-old businessman who wanted to wed a minor in Sindh, and a 70-year-old man in the Swat district who intended to have a 13-year-old girl as his wife.
These men were all arrested.
No coercion was reported in any of the cases. The father of the 13-year-old girl in the third case was also nabbed.
The above articles are compiled from the vernacular newspapers (Bahasa Malaysia, Chinese and Tamil dailies). As such, stories are grouped according to the respective language/medium. Where a paragraph begins with a >, it denotes a separate news item. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Found in Translation,Other news and views | A MAN in Pakistan sold his 12-year-old daughter for 500,000 rupees (RM8,453) to a 72-year-old senior citizen who wanted a wife, Malaysia Nanban reported. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/man-sells-underage-daughter-off-for-marriage | |
1,374,376 | Heavy floods, landslides kill at least nine | THE south reeled from heavy rains that triggered landslides that killed at least nine people, knocking out power for entire villages and burying crops.
Meanwhile, northern parts of the country are battling drought as the country faces two extremes of severe weather.
Four people were killed and two others are missing in Wuping county in the province of Fujian due to landslides caused by torrential rain that began on Sunday, with authorities measuring 37.2cm of rainfall over a 24-hour period.
At least 378 houses collapsed in the county, and 880ha of crops were damaged, amounting to economic losses of at least 415 million yuan (RM270mil) in Wuping, according to the official Xinhua news agency.
In the southern Guangdong province, bordering Hong Kong, landslides triggered by severe flooding killed at least five people in the city of Meizhou.
Three helicopters and more than 200 teams of rescuers have been searching for survivors and delivering aid to the affected areas.
More than 11,000 people were moved after the Hanjiang River in south China’s Pearl River basin flooded, drowning crop fields and inundating homes. — AP | AseanPlus | China | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | China | THE south reeled from heavy rains that triggered landslides that killed at least nine people, knocking out power for entire villages and burying crops. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/heavy-floods-landslides-kill-at-least-nine | |
1,374,374 | Indicted for insulting monarchy | Prosecutors formally indicted influential former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra (pic) under the kingdom’s strict royal insult laws over comments he made nearly a decade ago.
The case against the 74-year-old billionaire, twice elected premier and ousted in a 2006 military putsch, is one of four before the courts that could unleash fresh political instability in the coup-prone kingdom.
Thaksin, the patriarch of the Pheu Thai party that leads the coalition government, appeared at Bangkok’s Ratchada Criminal Court accused of lese-majeste over an interview he gave to South Korean media in 2015.
“Today a state prosecutor indicted Thaksin Shinawatra and the court accepted the case,” the attorney general’s office said in a statement.
Thaksin was granted bail on a 500,000 baht (RM64,000) bond and ordered not to leave the country without permission, court officials said.
Thailand has some of the world’s strictest royal defamation laws protecting King Maha Vajiralongkorn and his close family, with each charge bringing a potential 15-year prison sentence.
Critics say the laws are misused to stifle legitimate political debate, and there has been a spike in their use since youth-led anti-government street protests in 2020 and 2021.
Thaksin is the biggest name among the more than 270 people charged under the laws since the protests, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, a legal group that handles many cases.
Thaksin’s case comes on the same day the Constitutional Court continues deliberating on three other cases that could spark a political crisis.
One seeks the ouster of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin under ethics rules, over the appointment of a Cabinet minister with a criminal conviction.
In another, the election commission is seeking the dissolution of the main opposition Move Forward Party (MFP), which won most seats at last year’s general election but was blocked from forming the government.
The court was not expected to give a judgement in those cases yesterday, but was due to rule in a third case on whether the ongoing election for a new senate is lawful.
If the court decides to halt or even cancel the election, the current senators – appointed by the last junta – would continue in their role for the time being.
For two decades, Thai politics has been dominated by a struggle between the conservative military pro-royalist elite and progressive parties – first those of Thaksin and his allies and now the MFP.
Thaksin returned to Thailand last August from 15 years in self-exile on the same day Srettha took power in an alliance with pro-military parties previously bitterly opposed to Thaksin and his followers.
The timing seemed to suggest a truce in the long-running tussle as both sides sought to see off the threat posed by MFP.
But the Constitutional Court cases could rip any such deal apart, and Thaksin has hinted that he believes the lese-majeste allegations are an establishment ruse to undermine him and Srettha’s government.“I think the latest developments signal that he is still somewhere between a political mastermind and a hostage,” political analyst Napon Jatusripitak of the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore said. “He still finds being used as a buffer by the establishment against popular pro-democracy movements coming from below.”
“The political parties and representatives that voters have chosen are being systematically and repeatedly stymied,” Thitinan Pongsudhirak, a political scientist at Bangkok’s Chulalongkorn University, said.
A single petition can bring down a sitting, elected government or oust a prime minister, he said, outlining the power of the country’s courts.
“There’s a judicial assertiveness that has been damaging to Thailand, subverting popular will and popular mandates.”
Such tensions have previously triggered violent street protests, dissolutions of political parties, airport closures and military coups that have hamstrung the economy.
Thai stock markets have been rattled by the spectre of a political crisis. The main stock index dropped to its lowest level since November 2020 on Monday, but gained more than 1% yesterday morning before trimming gains. — AFP | AseanPlus | Thailand | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Thailand | Prosecutors formally indicted influential former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra (pic) under the kingdom’s strict royal insult laws over comments he made nearly a decade ago. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/indicted-for-insulting-monarchy | |
1,374,435 | No price too high for animal lover with RM5,000 cat | GEORGE TOWN: When Marshy the eight-year-old street cat had diarrhoea, her mistress Rahula Loh, 29, took her for a full check-up that cost about RM500.
The good news was that Marshy was physically healthy; with careful care, the ageing cat was defecating normally again.
“I saved her from the streets when she was five days old. She grew into a beautiful cat. There is nothing we will not do to keep all our cats healthy,” said Loh, who is a home-maker with five cats.
Loh said she took her cats to the vet four to five times a year.
ALSO READ: Furore over fur baby healthcare fees
Oftentimes, the visits are for symptoms like flu or diarrhoea, aside from the usual vaccination shots.
“It is not a waste of money. Our cats are like our children and frankly, it is still a lot cheaper than human healthcare,” she said.
She admitted, though, that pet healthcare in Penang was more economical than in the Klang Valley.
Loh has a pedigree cat breed called a Ragdoll, which she bought for about RM5,000.
ALSO READ: Pet care can go up to thousands of ringgit
Ragdoll cats are docile and have a tendency to go limp when anyone picks them up, making them perfect as “cuddly cats”.
Loh recently spent about RM200 to neuter her Ragdoll cat called Koda and she knows that in the Klang Valley, neutering a tomcat would cost over RM300.
“There is such a thing as pet medical insurance. For cats, it will be about RM300 a month each. Since my husband and I have five cats, the price can be a bit stiff so we did not opt for it.
“I have friends with cat medical insurance. When you go to the vet, you pay first and then you claim from the insurance companies. But there was so much hassle with paperwork that my friends gave up on the insurance,” she said.
That is not the end of it for Loh because she has a rare red-footed tortoise named Truffles that she bought for RM650 and it developed a respiratory infection some time ago.
“We called so many vets and only one was willing to treat our tortoise,” she said, adding that the treatment cost was about RM100.
Loh counts herself lucky so far because she has a friend with a dog that suffered from an auto-immune disease.
Every one or two months, the dog had to go for an injection that cost RM500.
Another friend’s cat is suffering from diaphragmatic hernia, and the surgery alone had cost RM4,000, not including the cost of recuperation.
“We will never put our pets to sleep as long as there is treatment to save them. They are a part of our family,” Loh asserted. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | GEORGE TOWN: When Marshy the eight-year-old street cat had diarrhoea, her mistress Rahula Loh, 29, took her for a full check-up that cost about RM500. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/no-price-too-high-for-animal-lover-with-rm5000-cat | |
1,374,433 | Giving back to Malaysia from afar | MyHeart connects with overseas-based M’sians to support their growth
Despite being thousands of kilometres away from Malaysia, academic Prof Dr Ainurul Rosli, who is based in the United Kingdom, continues to affect schools in rural Sabah.
Through Social Value Malaysia (SVM), Prof Ainurul, who co-founded the two-year-old social impact enterprise with Dr Jane Chang, provides upskilling training for teachers and students in primary and secondary schools with artificial intelligence (AI) and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education through its Invest4Good programme.
"The expected outcome of the project is the increased level of confidence (among teachers and students),” said Prof Ainurul, professor of enterprise and entrepreneurship at Brunel University in London.
“Instead of being an additional activity via clubs or extracurricular activities, the project is embedded into the curriculum.
“Regardless of whether you’re teaching art or STEM, AI can be embedded into the classroom, and students are much more motivated to learn in general.
“I think that’s the key point here. It’s also a collaborative element where communities also come together to chip in and support each other.”
Following the conclusion of SVM’s pilot project in Kota Kinabalu, the Human Resources Ministry, through its agency TalentCorp Malaysia Bhd, is partnering with it for its second project in Lahad Datu, Sabah, in August.
The upcoming programme is expected to involve 60 teachers and enable them to train 120 students.
Describing Prof Ainurul as an asset to the country, Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said TalentCorp “knocked on her door” to support her visions.
“Prof Ainurul is a Malaysian talent in the United Kingdom. She’s doing a lot of good work, so we want to support her development and growth.
“We are also (creating) a channel for her to contribute back to Malaysia, and for SVM, we are going to put in £10,000 (RM60,000) to support her work in Lahad Datu,” he said after attending TalentCorp’s “Malaysia at Heart (MyHeart) Salam Dari Malaysia” event in London last Saturday.
Prof Ainurul is just one of many talented Malaysians who are based overseas whose skills the government aims to leverage on, he added.
Sim said while the government continues to welcome Malaysians returning home through the Returning Expert Programme (REP), his ministry also acknowledged there are various reasons why some Malaysians decided to stay overseas.
“For the longest time, our priority is on the human capital in our country. When I came into the ministry, I realised that perhaps not every Malaysian in the diaspora is ready to come home, for various reasons, and we have to respect that,” he said.
Sim added that despite their decision, the government will continue to support their growth and enable them to contribute to Malaysia despite being far from home.
“This is where the MyHeart programme comes in, which is to provide a platform for overseas Malaysians to continue to connect with Malaysia, especially in the area of human capital development.
“In other words, we want to develop Malaysian talent not just domestically, but to also support the growth of Malaysian talent overseas.
“There are many Malaysian professionals and academicians who are contributing, whether directly or indirectly, to Malaysia via their work in their host countries. It is important for us to support their growth and let them know that it is still possible for them to continue to serve Malaysia wherever they are,” he said.
During the first leg of MyHeart event in Tokyo, Japan, last month, Sim announced a grant of ¥1mil (RM30,000) to support the upcoming Malaysia-Japan Visionaries Conference 2024.
The conference is being organised by 45 Malaysian and Japanese researchers led by Dr Amy Poh Ai Ling.
TalentCorp will also allocate a RM50,000 bursary to assist up to 20 Malaysian researchers to participate in the conference in Tokyo, Sim said.
“There’s a win-win situation where we are supporting a Malaysian talent overseas and we are also allowing her to use her networking in Japan to benefit Malaysians at home,” he added.
Also present at the event in London were Malaysian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Datuk Zakri Jaafar, TalentCorp’s newly-appointed chairman Wong Shu Qi, its board member Raja Hamzah Abidin Raja Nong Chik and group chief strategy officer Nazrul Aziz.
To learn more about the MyHeart initiative, go to myheart.my. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | TalentCorp,MyHeart,HR Ministry,Steven Sim,Social Value Malaysia,London,Malaysian Diaspora | Despite being thousands of kilometres away from Malaysia, academic Prof Dr Ainurul Rosli, who is based in the United Kingdom, continues to affect schools in rural Sabah. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/giving-back-to-malaysia-from-afar | |
1,374,366 | Aerotrain replacements to roll ahead of schedule | KUALA LUMPUR: The Aerotrain Replacement Project at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is slated to be completed by Jan 31, 2025, two months ahead of its original planned completion date of March 31, 2025, says Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB).
The airport operator said this expedited timeline was finalised through a contract signed on June 14 between Malaysia Airports (Sepang) Sdn Bhd (MA Sepang), Alstom Transport Systems (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd and IJMC-Pestech JV, a joint venture between IJM Construction Sdn Bhd and Pestech Technology Sdn Bhd.MA Sepang is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MAHB.
“Alstom will oversee the delivery of three new trains, the upgrading of two lines and the overall comprehensive testing required for safe operations,” MAHB said in a statement.
The aerotrains are expected to arrive in Malaysia from China by the end of the third quarter of this year, Bernama reported.
In March 2022, MAHB said it had awarded the KLIA Aerotrain Replacement Project, which has a three-year completion timeline.
However, the project encountered delays, which resulted in a new project award in January 2024 to a consortium comprising Alstom, the aerotrain’s original equipment manufacturer, and IJMC-Pestech JV to steer the project back on track.
MAHB acting group chief executive officer Mohamed Rastam Shahrom said the early project completion was a testament to the relentless commitment to improving passenger experience.
Meanwhile, the Immigration Department said it is committed to improving the autogate service at main entry points to the country, including at KLIA. Its director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said the department would study and clean up the work process to boost the quality of service.
“With the cooperation of the Home Ministry, we plan to increase the number of autogates to cater to the rising demand from foreign visitors,” he said in a statement.
“The department is always committed to providing the best service and welcomes suggestions as a continuous effort to improve movement at key entry points in the country.
“This is the department’s commitment to supporting the national economic development without neglecting facilities for Malaysian citizens,” he added.The use of autogates by foreign visitors began on June 1, in line with the government’s announcement that its use be expanded to 63 countries to meet the rising number of foreign visitors.
The Immigration Department recorded foreign visitor arrivals of over 30 million people, Ruslin said.
“Foreign visitor arrivals have risen with over 13 million entering Malaysia and the higher number of arrivals requires an efficient and quick process that doesn’t compromise national security,” he said.
Ruslin added that the autogate service proved to be effective and managed to speed up the process to 10 to 15 seconds compared with 30 minutes of waiting at manual counters. The service is capable of reducing congestion at the KLIA arrival hall significantly by settling 85% of arrivals within 25 minutes. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | KUALA LUMPUR: The Aerotrain Replacement Project at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is slated to be completed by Jan 31, 2025, two months ahead of its original planned completion date of March 31, 2025, says Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB). | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/aerotrain-replacements-to-roll-ahead-of-schedule | |
1,374,434 | Tourism players: Early move on QR code clearance makes sense | JOHOR BARU: The implementation of the QR code immigration clearance system at the land checkpoints here was timely, with Visit Johor Year 2026 programme kicking off in 18 months, say tourism industry players.
They said ensuring smooth traffic at the border between Johor and Singapore would be crucial for the state to hit its target of attracting over 12 million visitors in 2026.
Johor Tourist Guides Association chairman Jimmy Leong said implementing the QR code system early would make it easier for the government to fix issues that could arise from the new clearance method.
“This is definitely a good move. By implementing the system before Visit Johor Year 2026, the government and its relevant departments would have more time to improve it if needed.
“If there are any issues and glitches with the system, they can be able to fix it early and ensure that such problems do not arise once we start the tourism campaign,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Leong added that what made would make it better was that Singapore also started implementing such a system this year.
“With the implementation of the QR code system on both sides of the Causeway, we may be able to see smoother traffic, which is important for travellers,” he said.
Echoing his sentiment was Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Johor chapter chairman Ivan Teo, who said the move would benefit both Malaysia and Singapore.
“There is competition from other South-East Asian countries that are also working hard to attract visitors and improve their tourism sector.
“As such, we need to have something extra in order to compete, and smooth traffic between the two countries is something that we can really benefit from.
“Not only will this be good for Johor and Malaysia, but also Singapore as those visiting Malaysia could easily cross over to the island republic,” he said.
On June 1, Malaysia kicked off the proof-of-concept (POC) period for the implementation of the QR code immigration clearance system.
During the POC, Malaysians travelling via bus and motorcycles can try out the new system at the two land border checkpoints.
The implementation of the QR code is expected to be expanded to all modes of transport in stages.
Singapore has taken a similar approach for those travelling by car since March this year. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | QR Code,Tourism,Visit Johor 2026 | JOHOR BARU: The implementation of the QR code immigration clearance system at the land checkpoints here was timely, with Visit Johor Year 2026 programme kicking off in 18 months, say tourism industry players. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/tourism-players-early-move-on-qr-code-clearance-makes-sense | |
1,374,345 | Major drug pipeline busted | Penang police seize 100kg of ganja worth RM309,000
GEORGE TOWN: Police have crippled a major drug pipeline capable of feeding the habits of more than 200,000 addicts with the seizure of almost 100kg of ganja worth RM309,000.
Penang police chief Comm Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said following a tip-off, a state narcotics team and its George Town counterparts stopped a 46-year-old motorcyclist at a parking area at about 1pm last Friday.
“The team inspected the machine and found two compressed blocks of ganja, weighing close to 2kg.
“The suspect then led police to a car nearby where a similar substance in 98 compressed blocks, weighing 97.9kg, was seized.
“The car was used to store drugs meant for the local market,” he told a press conference here yesterday.
Comm Hamzah said police also seized another car registered under the suspect’s sibling under the Dangerous Drugs (Forfeiture of Property) Act 1988.
“Investigations showed the suspect has been active since last month.
“He also tested positive for amphetamine and ganja,” he said, adding that background checks also revealed the suspect has 12 prior criminal and drug-related records.
Comm Hamzah added that the suspect has been remanded for a week to assist investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act, which carries a death sentence or life imprisonment and a minimum of 12 strokes of the rotan.
“We are also intensifying our efforts against drug distribution activities by collaborating with other agencies and sharing of information to combat the menace effectively,” he said.
Those with any information regarding drug abuse or drug-related activities can call the hotline at 012-208 7222.
In KUANTAN, the Pahang Narcotics Crime Investigation Department arrested a man and seized 56.22kg of marijuana worth an estimated RM173,600, marking this year’s largest drug bust in the state so far.
Pahang police acting chief Deputy Comm Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said the 39-year-old man, believed to be a major drug trafficker, was arrested at Lorong Seri Mahkota Permai last Saturday at around 1.30pm following a two-month surveillance operation.
He said 54 compressed packages of greenish-dried marijuana leaves were found in a car, where the man was suspected to be waiting for customers, Bernama reported.
“The suspect operated independently, sourcing the drugs from neighbouring countries and distributing them in Pahang for nearly a year.
“This is the largest seizure in the state for the first six months of this year.
“With the arrest of this suspect, Pahang NCID has successfully dismantled the distribution network of marijuana in Kuantan,” DCP Noor Hisam told a press conference at the Pahang police headquarters here yesterday.
The suspect has 13 previous criminal offences related to drugs.
He also tested positive for methamphetamine and is currently remanded for seven days to assist in investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,drug bust,police | GEORGE TOWN: Police have crippled a major drug pipeline capable of feeding the habits of more than 200,000 addicts with the seizure of almost 100kg of ganja worth RM309,000. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/major-drug-pipeline-busted | |
1,374,359 | The Star, most trusted brand | The daily is the highest ranking among English news portals
PETALING JAYA: The Star is still the top English-language news portal in terms of brand trust scores in Malaysia, according to an annual study of news trends.
For brand trust scores, news channels Astro Awani and The Star scored 64% and 58%, respectively, as reported in the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2024.
The report added that The Star was the top English daily for weekly offline reach among TV, radio, and print and the top English language portal for weekly online reach.
In an overview of the report, Reuters Institute senior research associate and Digital News Report lead author Nic Newman shared key findings: “In many countries, especially outside Europe and the United States, we find a significant further decline in the use of Facebook for news and a growing reliance on a range of alternatives including private messaging apps and video networks.”
Video is also becoming a more important source of online news, especially with younger groups.
According to the report, worries about distinguishing between trustworthy and untrustworthy content on online platforms are highest for TikTok and X compared with other online networks.
“Both platforms have hosted misinformation or conspiracies around stories such as the war in Gaza and the Princess of Wales’ health, as well as so-called ‘deep fake’ pictures and videos,” it said.
On the subject of artificial intelligence (AI), Newman noted: “Our research also indicates that people who tend to trust the news, in general, are also more likely to be comfortable with uses of AI where humans (journalists) remain in control, compared with those that don’t.”
The survey showed that respondents are more comfortable with the use of AI in behind-the-scenes tasks, such as transcription and translation, to support rather than replace journalists.
“As publishers rapidly adopt AI, to make their businesses more efficient and to personalise content, our research suggests they need to proceed with caution, as the public generally wants humans in the driving seat at all times,” he added.
In his concluding remarks, Newman said: “In a world of superabundant content, success is also likely to be rooted in standing out from the crowd, to be a destination for something that the algorithm and AI can’t provide while remaining discoverable via many different platforms.”
The 13th edition of the Digital News Report is based on data from nearly 100,000 respondents from six continents and 47 markets.
The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism is part of Oxford University’s Politics and International Relations Department and is affiliated with Green Templeton College.
Their core funding comes from the Thomson Reuters Foundation.
Their work is also supported by many other funders, including academic funding bodies, foundations, non-profits and industry partners.
The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism is dedicated to exploring the future of journalism worldwide through debate, engagement and research. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | PETALING JAYA: The Star is still the top English-language news portal in terms of brand trust scores in Malaysia, according to an annual study of news trends. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/the-star-most-trusted-brand | |
1,374,368 | New three-tier category for MM2H here to stay | PETALING JAYA: The new three-tier category for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, announced last Friday, is here to stay, assures Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (pic).
He said that the category, along with the requirements and conditions for issuing the MM2H visa, have been endorsed by a special committee on MM2H as permanent features and integral parts of the programme.
“The programme will not see changes in the coming years, regardless of the government or ministers,” he said.
“We don’t want flip-flopping on MM2H,” he added.
Tiong emphasised that the Malaysian government assures participants and guarantees the MM2H programme for the long term.
Under the newly announced MM2H programme, applicants are divided into three tiers: Platinum, Gold and Silver.
The Platinum category requires a fixed deposit of US$1mil, the Gold category requires US$500,000, and the Silver category requires US$150,000, along with specific criteria and conditions.
The Platinum category also has to pay a one-off RM200,000 fee, which allows them to work and invest in Malaysia, while the Gold and Silver categories have fees of RM3,000 and RM1,000, respectively. However, Gold and Silver MM2H visa holders are not allowed to work.
The MM2H visa is valid for 20 years for Platinum, 15 years for Gold and 5 years for Silver.
After the term expires, participants are required to renew it every five years.
MM2H by candy
According to Tiong, the renewal fees are RM5,000 for Platinum, RM3,000 for Gold and RM1,500 for Silver. Only the principal holder of the MM2H visa is required to pay these fees.
Introduced in 2002, the MM2H programme allowed foreigners to purchase property and reside in Malaysia before it was temporarily frozen in August 2020 so that the Home Ministry and MOTAC (Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture) could review the programme comprehensively.
The MM2H programme was reactivated on Aug 11, 2021, with revised conditions, after being put on hold for a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Under the 2021 conditions, participants must spend at least 90 cumulative days in the country annually, have an offshore income of at least RM40,000 per month (increased from RM10,000), and maintain a fixed deposit account of at least RM1 million.
In 2021, there was criticism of how the programme worked.
Tiong also said that MM2H applicants cannot sell their property within 10 years of purchase.
However, if the applicant wishes to purchase a new property within that period, the original property must be sold, and the new property’s value must be higher than the original property’s value at the time of purchase.
“For instance, if the property purchased by a Platinum Category applicant is valued at RM2mil, the new ‘upgraded’ property must be higher than RM2mil,” he pointed out.
“Regardless of whether they are MM2H participants in the Platinum, Gold or Silver categories, their children cannot enrol in primary or secondary schools under the government system,” he said.
“However, they can continue their studies at Malaysian Higher Education Institutions certified by the Malaysian Government.” | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | MM2H,Cabinet,Tiong King Sing,Property | PETALING JAYA: The new three-tier category for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, announced last Friday, is here to stay, assures Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/new-three-tier-category-for-mm2h-here-to-stay | |
1,374,436 | Pet care can go up to thousands of ringgit | CLICK TO ENLARGE
PETALING JAYA: Treatment for dogs and cats can go up to thousands of ringgit, especially for serious cases, pet shelters and owners reveal.
However, they also said these prices are to be expected, and most vets charge reasonable prices.
Furry Friends Farm president Myza Nordin said a quarter of the shelter’s operational cost goes to veterinary care.
Specialist procedures are particularly expensive, she said especially for heart, brain and bone diseases.
ALSO READ: Furore over fur baby healthcare fees
The more expensive treatments are surgery for twisted stomach, which is between RM500 and RM1,000 and for snake bites which cost a few thousands.
Fortunately, the shelter has a panel vet which provides them subsidised rates, but she has been to other vets which could cost three to four times more.
“Some vets also charge arbitrary consultation fees, and even for taking medication without any treatment, they charge consultation fees,” she said.
However, for normal procedures, such as tick fever treatment, vaccinations and neuter, prices are reasonable.
Homeless Paws of Manjung coordinator Joanne Low said the shelter has recently paid RM10,000 for spaying and treatment for May and June for about 12 dogs.
ALSO READ: No price too high for animal lover with RM5,000 cat
“Every month we usually spend RM6,000 to RM7,000 on vet procedures for about 25 dogs, with the bulk of it for spaying,” she said.
However, this is dependent on the season, sometimes there are fewer or more sick dogs, she said.
She acknowledges that veterinary prices are increasing every year, however, it is expected with the country’s increasing cost.
“Some regulation of the veterinary fees would be helpful to control prices of vets,” she said.
Although government vets are cheaper, Low said she only brings her pets to private vets.
“The government vets in Manjung do not spay or neuter dogs, and they only do certain procedures,” she said.
Selangor SPCA chairman Christine Chin said for regular check-ups vet care can cost four to five times more than humans.
“Vet charges are expensive, and many people underestimate the cost of having pets.
“Some who can’t afford or choose not to pay for that healthcare would abandon their pets. More awareness about the responsibility of having pets is needed,” she said.
M. Devika, 57, said from 2010 until 2021, she had five cats and incurred more than RM100,000 in vet fees and special diet. This includes treatment for several rescued cats.
“I no longer have pets and have stopped rescuing. It is just too expensive. I hope the government will intervene to regulate vet fees and look into the cost involved in procedures carried out at vet hospitals and clinics,” she said.
Even for a general check-up, she would take at least RM500 with her.
The treatments for her cats included teeth scaling, ultrasound, blood and urine tests as well as spaying and vaccinations. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | vet,cat,dog,shelter,prices | PETALING JAYA: Treatment for dogs and cats can go up to thousands of ringgit, especially for serious cases, pet shelters and owners reveal. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/pet-care-can-go-up-to-thousands-of-ringgit | |
1,374,437 | Furore over fur baby healthcare fees | High bills and vastly different pricing for veterinary care have owners growling
KLANG: As pet ownership increases, the cost of veterinary care has come under the spotlight, with complaints that it has become ludicrously expensive.
Pet lovers also want to know why the cost of veterinary care can differ so much between clinics.
They said as opposed to the cost of medical care, which is regulated by the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services (Private Hospitals and other Private Healthcare Facilities) (Amendment) Order 2013, there is nothing that controls the cost of veterinary care.
Hence, they allege, some veterinarians who own and manage small animal practices are imposing unreasonable charges.
ALSO READ: Pet care can go up to thousands of ringgit
(Small animal practices are veterinary establishments that treat cats and dogs as well as other animals that are not wildlife or poultry and livestock.)
When contacted, a unit head from the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) said the department did not have the jurisdiction to control pricing as there was no relevant legislation.
“We can only control the pricing if laws have been passed. Without any legislation in place, we cannot interfere in the operations of private veterinary clinics.
“And if we were to regulate the clinics and their pricing, we have to do it through the Malaysian Veterinary Council (MVC), which is not prepared for the task,” he said.
Dr Saravanakumar S. Pillai, a former DVS senior deputy director, said veterinary care pricing has yet to be legislated because the industry is still in its infancy.
“It is only in recent times that veterinary clinics had started mushrooming and veterinarians began treating all kinds of illnesses and diseases.
“Before that, it was just minor treatments such as spaying, castration and vaccination.”
Dr Saravanakumar, who is now with Humane Society International, said pets were now cherished family members and owners would go all-out to get them treated, unlike in the past.
ALSO READ: No price too high for animal lover with RM5,000 cat
He added that the demand for sick pets to be kept alive for as long as possible had also spurred veterinary practices to get high-end diagnostic equipment.
“Veterinarians are now treating ailments that they never had to treat before such as cancer, diabetes, kidney and liver problems, heart disease and many other illnesses,” he said, adding that veterinarians were also carrying out spinal and various other orthopaedic surgeries.
Dr Saravanakumar said veterinary practices also need to make money to cover staff salaries, high rentals, and fat utility bills.
To make matters worse, fresh veterinary graduates are in high demand as the DVS, veterinary clinics, pet food industry, pet vaccine manufacturers and big-scale farms are rushing to hire them as soon as they finish their studies.“So, unless veterinary clinics pay them competitive salaries, they won’t be able to hire them,” he added.
Another reason for the high bills is the decline in the ringgit’s value, given that drugs for animals have to be bought from overseas.
“Many of the drugs that we need to treat animals are not available nor registered here. The generic variations are also not available in Malaysia,” said a senior veterinarian who declined to be named.
“So, we are left with no choice but to order them from Singapore,” he said.
He explained that besides paying for the drugs in Singapore dollars, transportation costs can come up to S$150 (RM522) for each trip.
He added that foreign veterinary drug manufacturing companies were not keen to register their drugs here due to the conditions set by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA).
“They feel it is not worth the trouble adhering to the NPRA conditions, such as having labels in Bahasa Malaysia as well as inserting a security hologram, because our market is too small for them,” he said.
Malaysian Small Animal Veterinary Association (MSAVA) president Dr Tan Check Nam said the main reason for the disparity of pricing between clinics was the unequal standard of veterinary practices.
“Some clinics are well-equipped and the clinicians there go all-out to diagnose, while other clinics do not have much equipment and are one-man shows where medicines may be dispensed with little or no examination.”
MSAVA executive council member and veteran veterinarian Datuk Dr Vellayan Subramaniam said his organisation had drawn up a pricing guideline to be agreed on by all its members some years ago.
“We are relooking and adjusting the pricing guidelines for our members currently,” he added.
However, he said it would still not help much as not all small animal practice veterinarians are MSAVA members and they could not be expected to follow the pricing guide. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | KLANG: As pet ownership increases, the cost of veterinary care has come under the spotlight, with complaints that it has become ludicrously expensive. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/furore-over-fur-baby-healthcare-fees | |
1,374,364 | Analysts: BRICS could increase FDIs, strengthen M’sia’s global voice | PETALING JAYA: Joining intergovernmental organisation BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) can attract more foreign investments to Malaysia amid the intensifying economic race among global superpowers, say analysts.
Experts also said that by being part of BRICS, Malaysia could make its voice louder at the global stage.
Principal adviser for the Pacific Research Centre of Malaysia Dr Oh Ei Sun said trade and investments are urgently needed by Malaysia to boost its economy and it is only natural to join BRICS for that purpose.
“The US and other Western powers are always welcome to double their investments and trade volumes with Malaysia in order to achieve their desired goal of prying Malaysia away from China,” said Dr Oh.
Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said when BRICS was first established in 2006, it was to counter and balance decisions made by the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and the Group of 7 (G7).
ALSO READ: Malaysia bids to join BRICS alliance
“These three bodies are basically controlled by developed nations from mostly the northern hemisphere and the West. Therefore, Malaysia has no say in decisions made by these organisations.
“It is not that we are siding with China or Russia, but we need a platform where we can voice our opinions,” said Dr Azmi.
Malaysian Institute of Economic Research head of research Dr Shankaran Nambiar said joining BRICS augurs well for Malaysia in the long run because the new economic narrative for the next generation will be set by this intergovernmental organisation.
“As the PM mentioned – to have a global economy with a greater diffusion of power,” said Shankaran.
Institute of Strategic and International Studies (Isis) analyst Yanitha Meena Louis said the participation in BRICS is a good sign of how Malaysia views itself in the emerging regional order, as it shows the ability to balance relations with multiple regional stakeholders and partners.
What is BRICS? by candy
“Malaysia joining BRICS sends a key message that Putrajaya is ready to tackle the challenges of the day head on, on its own terms,” added Yanitha.
Asian Financial Cooperation Association Think Tankers fellow Mohd Sedek Jantan said BRICS enables its member countries to align their positions on specific topics such as economic and climate policies, as well as infrastructure development in accordance with the Belt and Road Initiative model.
Economist Prof Geoffrey Williams said BRICS offers a wide portfolio for trade and investment, as well as access to conventional and non-conventional trading blocks, which is crucial to Malaysia.
Williams acknowledged the shift in economic balance of power following Malaysia’s membership into BRICS, but said Putrajaya must respond positively.“The recent foreign direct investment deals are with independent minded American companies and not with the US government so this is what matters,” he said.
Chief economist at Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said BRICS would offer further diversification for Malaysia in respect to trade, investment as well as access to broader markets.
He said joining BRICS would also help to reduce over-concentration on the usage of the US dollar in trade settlement and effectively insulate the country and the region from the changes in the US monetary policy and currency volatility.
“The government would need to perform a cost and benefit analysis as the prevailing condition is quite fluid, especially in areas relating to geopolitics among the bigger nations.”
As such, he said the risks of economic sanction is something that Malaysia needs to be aware of.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said Malaysia is currently analysing the feasibility of becoming a BRICS member.
Mohamad told reporters in Seremban that joining BRICS would strengthen Malaysia’s voice on various international issues. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | PETALING JAYA: Joining intergovernmental organisation BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) can attract more foreign investments to Malaysia amid the intensifying economic race among global superpowers, say analysts. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/19/analysts-brics-could-increase-fdis-strengthen-msias-global-voice | |
1,374,379 | Gate installed on Mount Fuji trail to control crowds | A crowd-control gate was installed halfway up Mount Fuji ahead of the July 1 start of this year’s climbing season, but the governor of Yamanashi, one of the two prefectures that are home to the mountain, said additional measures are needed to control overcrowding on its lower slopes.
The gate was completed as part of a new set of rules that Yamanashi is introducing this year to address growing safety, environmental and overcrowding problems on the mountain.
The newly-installed gate will be closed between 4pm and 3am to lock out those who have not booked an overnight stay at a hut along the Yoshida trail, which is used by most climbers, mainly to stop “bullet climbing,” or rushing to the summit without adequate rest, considered a major safety risk.
A maximum of 4,000 climbers will be allowed to enter the trail per day.
“The restrictions that will take effect this year are measures to address the problems that are putting climbers’ lives at risk,” Yamanashi Gov Kotaro Nagasaki said at a news conference in Tokyo.
He said the number of climbers on the trail this year is expected to surpass last year’s 137,236.
“Overcrowding near the summit could lead to a major disaster, like people falling in a domino effect,” he said.
Under the new system, climbers must make reservations and choose between a day hike or an overnight stay at one of several huts along the trail.
Nagasaki said he is confident that the new measures will ease overcrowding on the upper reaches of Mount Fuji, but that problems remain lower down.
He pledged to ease over-tourism on the lower levels and their surroundings, possibly by introducing a mountain railway to the fifth station, which currently can be reached by cars and buses, while promoting traditional climbing routes from the mountain’s foot. — AP | AseanPlus | Japan | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | Japan | A crowd-control gate was installed halfway up Mount Fuji ahead of the July 1 start of this year’s climbing season, but the governor of Yamanashi, one of the two prefectures that are home to the mountain, said additional measures are needed to control overcrowding on its lower slopes. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/gate-installed-on-mount-fuji-trail-to-control-crowds | |
1,374,283 | China ready to work with Malaysia to build China-Malaysia community, says Li Qiang | KUALA LUMPUR: China is ready to work with Malaysia, taking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as a new starting point, to further synergise development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and increase exchanges and mutual learning between civilisations, said Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Li, who is on a three-day official visit to Malaysia, said China is also ready to promote the building of a China-Malaysia community with a shared future and make a greater contribution to peace, stability, development and prosperity of the region and the world at large.
"Currently, China is advancing Chinese modernisation on all fronts through high-quality development. Malaysia, on its part, is promoting national development under the vision of Malaysia Madani. China is ready to work with Malaysia,” he said in his arrival statement, which was made available to Bernama after he arrived at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on Tuesday (June 18).
This marked Li’s first trip to the country since assuming the post in March last year.
His visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Communiqué between then prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then-Chinese Premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
According to Li, over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, China and Malaysia’s relations have maintained a sound momentum of growth.
"We have consolidated strategic mutual trust, strengthened people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and achieved fruitful results in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.
"Malaysia is a major emerging economy in Asia, a key member of Asean, and an important force for regional prosperity and stability,” said Li.
The premier said the growth of China-Malaysia relations has brought tangible benefits to the people of both nations and made positive contribution to peace and development in the region.
Li said it was a great pleasure for him to pay an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations.
"On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I wish to convey cordial greetings and best wishes to the government and people of Malaysia,” he said.
Li said last year, President Xi Jinping and Anwar reached important common understandings on building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future, ushering in a new chapter of bilateral relations.
On his current official visit, he "looks forward to meeting with His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim King of Malaysia and Prime Minister Anwar for an in-depth discussion on building a China-Malaysia community with a shared future and deepening our all-round comprehensive strategic cooperation”.
"I will also attend the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations and the Year of China-Malaysia Friendship,” he said.- Bernama | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | Santhakumar a/l Mahalingam | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Malaysia,China,anniversary,Li Qiang,visit | KUALA LUMPUR: China is ready to work with Malaysia, taking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations as a new starting point, to further synergise development strategies, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and increase exchanges and mutual learning between civilisations, said Chinese Premier Li Qiang. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/china-ready-to-work-with-malaysia-to-build-china-malaysia-community-says-li-qiang | |
1,374,259 | Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Tuesday (June 18, 2024) | Malaysia:
* Malaysia has 89 companies in first Fortune 500 list of South-East Asia’s largest companies; Maybank is country's top brand
* Chinese premier Li's visit celebrates 50 years of Malaysia-China diplomatic ties
* Govt to study implications of proposal to place MACC under Parliament, says PM Anwar
* Importance of eggs in M'sian diet main reason for price cut, says Anwar
* China's Premier Li Qiang arrives in Malaysia for three-day official visit
* Malaysia-China to ink MOU on housing, urban planning, smart cities, says Nga
* Halim Saad appeals High Court decision dismissing lawsuit against Dr M and others
* Food poisoning in Gombak: Cops record statements from 15 including caterer
* Open AP policy from July 1, 2024 to benefit more bumiputera entrepreneurs
* Sabah's 40% revenue rights: SLS to get its day in court after AG's appeal dismissed
* KLIA Aerotrain to be completed by Jan 31, 2025, says MAHB
* Nine arrested after foreigner found dead with stab wounds, head injury in Ipoh
Workers clean up an oil slick at Tanjong Beach in Sentosa, Singapore on TUesday, June 18, 2024. - Reuters
Singapore:
* Over 2.4 million travellers clear Woodlands, Tuas checkpoints over Hari Raya Haji long weekend
* Singapore ranked second most expensive city for expats by Mercer
* Hong Kong ranks fifth in world’s most competitive economies, Singapore jumps to top spot
* Probation for teen who threatened boy with parang and forced him to drink urine
* Singapore’s new cat licensing rules will weed out backyard breeders
* 100kg grouper caught off Indonesia sliced up for eager supermarket shoppers in Ang Mo Kio
* Singapore's new avian attraction is for visitors of all ages
* Oil spill incident: Singapore expands cleanup effort to more areas, including eastern end of island
* Singapore's May exports down 0.1% y/y, better than forecast
* Shell to acquire Singaporean LNG firm Pavilion Energy from Temasek
Indonesia:
* Indonesian govt rushes to finish new airport ahead of Nusantara launch
* Ex-governor upbeat about East Java becoming Indonesia's economic centre
* Ministries request more funds for relocation to Nusantara
* Malaysian Embassy in Jakarta hosts Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration
* Joko calls for water pumps to shield crops from heat wave
* Oil edges down amid cautious demand outlook
* Most Asian shares rise on Wall Street boost, currencies mixed
Indonesian Muslims offer mass prayers at Baitul Makmur Grand Masque during Eid al-Adha celebrations in Meulaboh, West Aceh regency, Indonesia. - Photo: Antara Via Reuters
Thailand:
* 'Victory for the people', say activists after Thailand approves same-sex marriage
* Thailand passes landmark Bill approving same-sex marriage
* Thailand looks to maritime tourism connectivity with Vietnam, Cambodia
* Thaksin indicted as Thailand braces for court cases amid risk of political crisis
* Thailand arrests 26,000 undocumented workers in a week
* Thai court grants Thaksin bail, other politically charged cases to be heard in July
Philippines:
* Philippines says sailor sustained serious injury in South China Sea collision
* Guo’s lawyer writes to Palace: Mayor innocent; has no Pogo link
* China and Philippines spar over details of latest ship collision
* Court finds four Philippine police guilty in drug war killings
* External debt up in 1Q, say Philippine government officials
* Huge rice imports won’t burden weak peso - Central bank reveals it has sufficient forex reserves
Philippine police officers attend their trial in Manila on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at a court where they were found guilty of killing a father and son in a rare case of members of law enforcement being prosecuted for taking part in former president Rodrigo Duterte's drug war that claimed thousands of lives. - AFP
Vietnam:
* China accuses US of ‘malign intention’ to discredit its Covid-19 vaccines
* Landslide kills four including one-month old baby in Vietnam's northern mountainous region
* Online scams a growing threat in Vietnam
* Vietnam extends tax payment deadline for domestic cars
* US rebukes Hanoi ahead of expected Putin visit
* Elderly population offers economic opportunity for Vietnam govt
Myanmar:
* UN rights chief: Rohingya have 'nowhere to flee' in western Myanmar fighting
* Three killed in car fire after power line falls in Yangon
* Thousands of Rohingya feared trapped in fighting in western Myanmar
Tourists take selfie photos in front of a monument of Soviet founder Vladimir Lenin in Hanoi on June 18, 2024. Russia's President Vladimir Putin is set to travel to Vietnam, Kremlin officials said, following a visit to North Korea starting on Tuesday, June 18. - AFP
Cambodia:
* Cambodia’s economy on growth track, all sectors recovering fast, says PM Hun Manet
* Repatriated artefacts on display at Cambodia's National Museum
* Cambodia arrests 9 for drug trafficking, seizes over 60kg of narcotics
Laos:
* Laos to hold festival to promote handicrafts and tourism
* Laos, Hungary to enhance bilateral cooperation
* Laos strives to promote tourism
Brunei:
* Brunei school unveils major solar PV project with aims of reducing carbon footprint and promote renewable energy usage
* Brunei company joins tech talk in Singapore
A man walks past a fountain as temperatures soar in Beijing, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. As southern China is reeling from heavy rains that triggered landslides, much of northern China, including the capital, Beijing, has endured high temperatures in recent days. - AP
AseanPlus:
* Malaysia set to join BRICS, says Anwar / An explainer on BRICS
* Malaysia and Turkiye agree to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, says Anwar
* HK superstar Andy Lau to stage four shows in KL in October, one date clashes with Jay Chou
* Australia uneasy over China diplomats who shadowed journalist who was once held in China
* Heavy rains, landslides in China's Guangdong and Fujian kill nine
* Priyanka Gandhi to make ellectoral debut in India by-election
* China’s next-gen sexbots powered by AI are about to hit the shelves
* Ahead of Paris Olympics, China takes steps to curb unruly sports fans
* India to probe railway collision that killed nine, injured dozens
* Huawei considers app store fees as it surpasses iPhone in China
* Japan reports record spike in flesh-eating bacterial infections
* Chinese Premier Li targets clean energy in Australia visit
* S. Korean doctors set for mass walkout over med school seats
* China dismisses EU comments on human rights crackdown
* Two injured after Air New Zealand flight encounters severe turbulence
* New Zealand will increase its military contribution to N. Korea sanctions monitoring
* China’s south bears brunt of rains with at least nine dead and hundreds homeless
* Soldiers cross border, landmines explode as N. Korea reinforces border: Seoul military
* And the Hong Kong Oscar for best train food goes to ... kitchen to station platform delivery
* Hong Kong airport urged to review contingency plans after eight-hour runway closure
* Cricket-Pooran turns on the power as West Indies pummel Afghanistan
* Asian markets rise with Wall St as traders eye latest US data / Asia shares push higher; RBA stands pat on rates
* Date my cat: China youth host matchmaking events for pets to relieve stress, pressure to get married, sparks online discussions | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Long | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Asean,News,Headlines | Here's a look at the news highlights from Asean countries in the Star-AseanPlus section for Tuesday (June 18, 2024) | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/asean-news-headlines-at-10pm-on-tuesday-june-18-2024 | |
1,374,258 | China accuses US of "malign intention" to discredit its Covid-19 vaccines | MANILA/HANOI (Reuters): China's embassy in the Philippines accused the US military of "hypocrisy, malign intention and double standards" in response to a report of secret US campaign to undermine confidence in a Chinese vaccines and other aid during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The remarks made by the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Manila on Tuesday were in response to a Reuters investigative report that said the US military launched a clandestine programme during the Covid-19 pandemic to discredit China's Sinovac inoculation in the Philippines.
The investigation found the US military aimed to sow doubt about the safety and efficacy of vaccines and other life-saving aid supplied by China. Through phony internet accounts meant to impersonate Filipinos, the military's propaganda efforts morphed into an anti-vax campaign, according to the report.
"People around the world are indignant about the U.S. military's actions which lay bare the hypocrisy, malign intention and double standards of the United States," an embassy spokesperson said in a statement.
"While talking about respecting human rights, the United States does just the opposite regarding the fundamental human rights of life and health of the Filipino people."
The US Embassy in Manila referred a request for comment to its Department of Defense.
In the Reuters report, a senior Defense Department official acknowledged the U.S. military engaged in secret propaganda to disparage China’s vaccine in the developing world, but the official declined to provide details.
A Pentagon spokeswoman was cited in the report as saying the US military "uses a variety of platforms, including social media, to counter those malign influence attacks aimed at the US, allies, and partners."
She also said China had started a "disinformation campaign to falsely blame the United States for the spread of Covid-19."
(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema; Editing by Ed Davies) - Reuters | AseanPlus | China | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | China,US,Vaccine,Covid-19,Issues Arising | China's embassy in the Philippines accused the US military of "hypocrisy, malign intention and double standards" in response to a report of secret US campaign to undermine confidence in a Chinese vaccines and other aid during the Covid-19 pandemic. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/china-accuses-us-of-malign-intention-to-discredit-its-covid-19-vaccines | |
1,374,255 | Over 2.4 million travellers clear Woodlands, Tuas checkpoints over Hari Raya Haji long weekend | SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): More than 2.4 million travellers cleared the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints over the recent Hari Raya Haji long weekend between June 13 and June 17.
More than 530,000 travellers crossed on June 14 alone, a record number of people passing through the land checkpoints in a single day, the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) said in a Facebook post on June 18.
The figure exceeds the previous record, set a day earlier on June 13, when more than 510,000 travellers crossed the two land checkpoints.
“The record number of travellers, coupled with more car travellers, resulted in prolonged traffic tailbacks extending from Malaysia,” added ICA.
ICA said it monitors traffic conditions in real time and deploys officers accordingly to manage the changing traffic situation.
Traffic is expected to remain “very heavy” at both land checkpoints throughout the rest of the June school holidays, which end on June 23.
ICA advised travellers to check the traffic conditions before embarking on their journey and to factor in more time for immigration clearance. - The Straits Times/ANN | AseanPlus | Singapore | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Singapore,Malaysia,Long Holiday,Border,Major Movement | More than 2.4 million travellers cleared the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints over the recent Hari Raya Haji long weekend between June 13 and June 17. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/over-24-million-travellers-clear-woodlands-tuas-checkpoints-over-hari-raya-haji-long-weekend | |
1,374,254 | Indonesian govt rushes to finish new airport ahead of Nusantara launch | JAKARTA (Jakarta Post/ANN): The government is rushing to finish a new airport for the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) ahead of the city’s inauguration, but experts warn the breakneck pace could compromise safety and quality.
Nusantara Airport, initially designated to serve only important guests of the state, is slated for completion by Aug. 1 with a trial run in July, according to Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, just in time for an inauguration that will coincide with Independence Day on Aug 17.
However, the operational certification is still outstanding. “This is indeed a rush job,” Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI) deputy chairman Djoko Setijowarno told The Jakarta Post on Friday.
“[But] quality control should not be violated, even though the construction process is racing against time and high rainfall.” Technical limitations, particularly with regard to runway paving, require time for proper settling, he explained.
Rushing these stages could lead to future issues and costly repairs, similar to highway projects that deteriorated shortly after being inaugurated. “If [the airport’s construction] can’t be expedited, I suggest to just say so.
The President’s activities [in the IKN] aren’t so frequent that we need to force this and risk problems later,” said Djoko, who has visited the airport site several times.
Nusantara Airport, construction of which began in November last year, sits on a 347-hectare plot and features a 7,350-square-meter terminal.
While the originally planned 3,000-meter runway could accommodated large commercial aircraft, the current focus is on completing a shorter, 2,200-m runway by July to meet the August deadline, according to Danis Hidayat Sumadilaga, who heads the IKN infrastructure development task force.
The completed airport will have the capacity to accommodate three large commercial aircraft, one small aircraft and three helicopters.
“It is promised that work on the runway will reach 2,200 meters by July 2024, and that the work will be 100 percent complete by the end of December 2024,” Danis was quoted as saying by news agency Antara on April 21.
The project, estimated to cost Rp 4.3 trillion (US$261 million), is funded entirely from the 2023 state budget. Aviation expert Gerry Soejatman considers the timely completion and certification “very possible”, given the airport's limited scope.
Since it was not designed for commercial use, only essential public facilities need to be operational initially. This focus on a smaller, noncommercial airport allows for faster construction than what would be required for a full-fledged commercial facility.
“The airport is not designed for commercial flights, and investors saw no guaranteed return on investment,” Gerry told the Post on Thursday. However, this might not necessarily spell the end for the airport’s commercial viability.
“There’s no firm stance from the government that the airport will be VVIP only,” he added, using an acronym for individuals deemed very important. “We know the IKN needs private investment for its development.”
Public Works and Housing Minister Basuki Hadimuljono previously noted the possibility of Nusantara Airport becoming a commercial facility in the future, as reported by Detik.
Commercial viability in question
Experts say uncertainty regarding the new capital's role, specifically whether it will serve solely as an administrative center or also as an economic hub, has created doubts about the airport’s viability for commercial flights.
Djoko of MTI advised against using Nusantara Airport for commercial purposes, emphasizing its initial purpose to serve guests and the fact that it only has one runway, akin to Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport in Jakarta.
Aviation expert Alvin Lie stressed that Nusantara Airport was not designed to handle intensive public traffic and logistics, making its operational and maintenance costs unfeasible for commercial use.
“It was built to accommodate a limited number of high-ranking officials with low utilization rates,” Alvin said on Thursday. “Nusantara’s design as an administrative hub does not support commercial viability.”
Gerry highlighted the lack of a clear designation for Nusantara as either an economic or administrative hub: “If the plan is to create a major metropolitan city, why build such a small airport? This just confuses investors.”
Investors, he pointed out, looked at potential traffic, possibilities for expansion and financial returns, all of which remain unclear for Nusantara Airport.
The government had initially hoped to fund Nusantara Airport through a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme, according to Gerry, but the lengthy process and noncommercial nature of the airport deterred investors.
“We need clarity on what [Nusantara] aims to become, because uncertainty is deterring investor interest in airports across Indonesia.”
The Transportation Ministry did not respond to the Post’s request for comment, while the IKN Authority declined to comment.
Nearby airports stand ready
Experts have suggested that, if the future capital remains solely an administrative hub as initially designed, passengers should use existing commercial airports in nearby cities, such as Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Sepinggan International Airport in Balikpapan and Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport in Samarinda.
“The important thing is [to have] quick access to airports,” emphasized Djoko, advising the government to improve infrastructure to connect these airports with the IKN’s city center.
Gerry concurred, noting that expansion plans were more feasible for these neighboring airports.
“Sepinggan Airport is closer to Nusantara's city center, [but] it is already busy and has expansion limitations. Pranoto Airport, on the other hand, has significant expansion potential but is slightly farther,” he said.
However, Gerry expressed skepticism about Balikpapan’s potential to serve 30 million passengers annually, as may be necessary depending on the city’s development. “That's half of Soekarno-Hatta International Airport’s 2022 figure, which took decades to achieve.” - Jakarta Post/ANN | AseanPlus | Indonesia | Complimentary | Long | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Indonesia,Nusantara,New Capital,Major works,Launch,Independence Day,Aug 17 | Nusantara Airport, initially designated to serve only very important guests of the state, is slated for completion by Aug. 1 with a trial run in July, just in time for the country’s Independence Day flag ceremony, which is also the capital’s inauguration day. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/indonesian-govt-rushes-to-finish-new-airport-ahead-of-nusantara-launch | |
1,374,252 | 'Victory for the people', say activists after Thailand approves same-sex marriage | BANGKOK (AFP): Thailand on Tuesday became the first country in South-East Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, in a historic parliamentary vote hailed as a "victory" by campaigners.
The upper house Senate gave final approval -- by 130 votes to four, with 18 abstentions -- to changes to the marriage law allowing same-sex couples to tie the knot.
The new legislation will now go to King Maha Vajiralongkorn for royal assent and come into force 120 days after publication in the official Royal Gazette.
Thailand will become only the third place in Asia where same-sex couples can get hitched, after Taiwan and Nepal, and activists are hoping the first weddings could be celebrated as early as October.
"We are very proud of everyone involved in this historic moment. You have helped to bring about a massive change," Plaifah Kyoka Shodladd, an LGBTQ activist and member of the committee that scrutinised the law, told senators after the vote.
"Today love wins over prejudice."
Ahead of the vote, Tunyawaj Kamolwongwat, an MP with the progressive Move Forward Party, said the change in the law was "a victory for the people".
The new legislation changes references to "men", "women", "husbands" and "wives" in marriage laws to gender-neutral terms.
It also gives same-sex couples the same rights as heterosexual ones when it comes to adoption and inheritance.
"My partner has one boy and I want to have legal rights to formally adopt him as my child and to have a say about his well-being. This bill will allow it," Kevin Pehthai Thanomkhet, 30, told AFP.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ community and the bill, opened his official residence to activists and supporters for a celebration after the vote.
"We have fought a long time because we believe in all equal rights," Srettha wrote on his X account after the vote.
"Today is our day. We celebrate to 'diverse' love, not 'different'. Love is beautiful and powerful."
In central Bangkok, a crowd of activists celebrated the news by watching a drag show and decorating the grounds of the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre with a giant rainbow flag.
"As a Thai person, I am very proud," Korakoch Jeumsanga, a 23-year-old a 23-year-old spectator, who was watching the event, told AFP at the celebration.
"This bill benefits both straight and gay people. I had goosebumps when the bill passed."
Miles Enriquez-Morales, a tourist from California, said he hoped more countries would follow Thailand's example.
"With all the anti-LGBTQ sentiment in US and Europe, I hope that more countries will follow suit in legalising same-sex marriage in different parts of the world," he said.
Joe Yang, 32, a tourist from Guangzhou in China who attended the event with friends, said the outcome of the vote was "great news" for Thailand.
"This would not happen in China," he said.
"You know given the reputation of Thailand I thought that you guys would have legalised it already. I am happy for Thai people."
- Long struggle -
Thailand has long enjoyed a reputation for tolerance of the LGBTQ community, and opinion polls reported in local media show overwhelming public support for equal marriage.
More than 30 countries around the world have legalised marriage for all since the Netherlands became the first to celebrate same-sex unions in 2001.
But in Asia only Taiwan and Nepal recognise marriage equality. India came close in October, but the Supreme Court referred the decision back to parliament.
"I am so happy to see how far we have come," said Chotika Hlengpeng, a participant in the Pride march that drew thousands of enthusiasts in Bangkok early in June.
Tuesday's vote is the culmination of years of campaigning and thwarted attempts to pass equal marriage laws.
While the move enjoys popular support, much of Buddhist-majority Thailand still retains traditional and conservative values.
LGBTQ people, while highly visible, say they still face barriers and discrimination in everyday life.
And some activists have criticised the new laws for failing to recognise transgender and non-binary people, who will still not be allowed to change their gender on official identity documents. - AFP | AseanPlus | Thailand | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Thailand,Same Sex,Marriage,Bill,Approved,Activists,Claim,Victory,For People | Thailand on Tuesday became the first country in South-East Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, in a historic parliamentary vote hailed as a "victory" by campaigners. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/039victory-for-the-people039-say-activists-after-thailand-approves-same-sex-marriage | |
1,374,251 | Philippines says sailor sustained serious injury in South China Sea collision | MANILA (Reuters): A Philippine navy sailor suffered "serious injury" after what the country's military called on Tuesday "intentional-high speed ramming" by the Chinese coast guard during a resupply mission in the South China Sea.
The Philippine military said in a statement the Chinese coast guard's "continued aggressive behavior and unprofessional conduct towards a legitimate humanitarian mission is unacceptable."
China and the Philippines have accused each other of being at fault for Monday's collision near a disputed atoll in the South China Sea.
Philippine officials said China disrupted a military mission to resupply sailors stationed in Second Thomas Shoal in a rusting navy ship BRP Sierra Madre that Manila deliberately beached in 1999 to bolster its maritime claim.
China's coast guard disputed this and said the navy vessel deliberately and dangerously approached a Chinese ship in an unprofessional manner, forcing it to take control measures such as "warnings and blockades, boarding inspections, and forced evictions."
The Philippines said China's account was "deceptive and misleading".
The Philippine military said on Tuesday the injured sailor had been successfully evacuated and was being treated. It did not specify the nature of the injury.
Second Thomas Shoal has been a flashpoint in recent months between the countries. The atoll lies within Manila's 200-nautical mile maritime zone, which China also claims as its own.
China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei.
A 2016 arbitral ruling rejected China's historical claims to the resource-rich waterway, a decision Beijing has rejected.
The U.S. State Department called the incident the latest in a series of Chinese "provocations" to impede supplies from reaching Philippines personnel stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre.
Canada and United Kingdom also condemned China's actions, while France and Japan have expressed concern over the incident.
(Reporting by Mikhail Flores and Karen Lema; Editing by Ed Davies) - Reuters | AseanPlus | Philippines | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Philippines,Govt,Claim,Sailor,Badly Injured,South China Sea,Collision,China Navy | A Philippine navy sailor suffered "serious injury" after what the country's military called on Tuesday "intentional-high speed ramming" by the Chinese coast guard during a resupply mission in the South China Sea. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/philippines-says-sailor-sustained-serious-injury-in-south-china-sea-collision | |
1,374,250 | Landslide kills four including one-month old baby in Vietnam's northern mountainous region | HANOI (Xinhua): A landslide on a hill slope left four people dead in Vietnam's northern province of Bac Kan early Tuesday morning, local media reported.
Five people in a family were sleeping in their house located on a hillside in Pac Nam district when the incident occurred at around 0:30 a.m. (1730 GMT Monday).
The landslide completely buried their house. Four of them including a one-month-old baby were buried. One could escape.
The volume of rainfall in the region amounted to 90 mm from 8 p.m. on Monday to 6:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Vietnam News Agency reported.
Natural disasters left 39 people dead and missing in Vietnam from January to May, according to the country's General Statistics Office. - Xinhua | AseanPlus | Vietnam | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Vietnam,Four People,Dead,Baby Included,Lanslide,mountainous region | A landslide on a hill slope left four people dead in Vietnam's northern province of Bac Kan early Tuesday morning, local media reported. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/landslide-kills-four-including-one-month-old-baby-in-vietnam039s-northern-mountainous-region | |
1,374,247 | Microsoft has limited exposure to China, but US lawmakers still raise questions | American tech giant Microsoft has come under the spotlight amid rising geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington, as US lawmakers questioned the company over its ties to the world’s second largest economy.
Brad Smith, Microsoft president since 2015, disclosed that China only accounted for around 1.5 per cent of its global revenue, but said there are reasons for the company to stay even as the size of its mainland-based engineering team has been reduced.
The reasons for Microsoft to continue its China operations were “to protect American information and trade secrets of American companies who are doing business in China” and to “ensure that [it is] always learning from what’s going on in the rest of the world”, Smith said last week during congressional testimony over computer hacks last year that were linked to China.
Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.
The hearings, where Smith had to assure lawmakers that US national security was being protected as part of its involvement in China tech development, reflect how growing bilateral tensions are impacting American businesses.
The tensions are “likely to continue for a long time, which will be a tremendously negative backdrop for US tech companies investing in China”, said He Jun, senior researcher at Beijing-based think tank Anbound.
During the testimony, Smith was asked about his promise to “actively participate in the digital transformation of China’s economy”, an indirect quote published by China’s commerce ministry and attributed to Smith during his visit to the country in December. Smith told the hearings that the words were “not [his] statement”.
Smith said there were areas in China deemed by Microsoft as “appropriate and important” to participate in, but that he did not use the words in the quote.
However, the quote and Smith’s visit to China were widely reported by local media as Beijing seeks to lure more foreign investment in the country.
“It’s been increasingly hard for American companies to operate in China given the rising geopolitical tension between the two countries,” said Thomas Liu, founder and CEO of the consultancy Policy Nexus. “But in the long run, China and the US will benefit from cooperating with each other rather than a conflict.”
Even while maintaining its presence on the mainland, Microsoft has been reducing its China-based engineering team. Smith confirmed that the company is offering to relocate 700 to 800 employees from it China operations overseas. The Post reported in May that some local staff, including those from the Azure cloud computing unit, were offered new work locations such as the US, Australia and Ireland.
Separately, Microsoft announced plans last week to invest US$7.2 billion to develop new data centres in Spain, making it a major cloud computing hub in Europe.
Anbound’s He said Microsoft still has advantages in staying in China. “When [Microsoft founder] Bill Gates came to China [last June], the nation’s president [Xi Jinping] met him. Will Microsoft give up this good ‘soft power’ and reputation to dance to the demands of American politicians?”
More from South China Morning Post:
For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2024. | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | SCMP | Microsoft president Brad Smith said there are reasons to stay in China, although the company has been reducing is engineering team there | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/microsoft-has-limited-exposure-to-china-but-us-lawmakers-still-raise-questions | |
1,374,246 | Three-tier MM2H to be a permanent feature, says Tiong | PETALING JAYA: The new three-tier category system for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme will be a permanent feature, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister said the programme would remain unchanged to bolster the country's reputation, a decision endorsed by the MM2H Special Committee.
"Many people are concerned about whether the new MM2H framework will undergo further adjustments, causing confusion among applicants.
"The Special Committee has clarified that the newly implemented MM2H framework and regulations will not be modified after changes to the political landscape or Cabinet reshuffles," he said.
He explained that the ministry had taken a considerable amount of time to review and rectify shortcomings of the previous MM2H application conditions.
"The programme will not see changes in the coming years. We don't want flip-flopping on MM2H," he said in an interview on Tuesday (June 18).
Under the newly announced MM2H programme, applicants are divided into three tiers: Platinum, Gold, and Silver. The Platinum category requires a fixed deposit of US$1mil, the Gold category requires US$500,000 and the Silver category requires US$150,000, alongside specific criteria and conditions.
Tiong also said that MM2H applicants are not allowed to sell the property within 10 years of its purchase.
However, if an applicant wishes to do so, the original property can be sold but the value of the new property must exceed that of the original.
"For instance, if the property purchased by a Platinum category applicant is valued at RM2mil, the new 'upgraded' property must be higher than RM2mil," he said.
He also pointed out that MM2H participants' children are not allowed to enrol in primary or secondary schools under the government system but can continue their studies at Malaysian higher education institutions certified by the Malaysian government.
Introduced in 2002, the MM2H programme allowed foreigners to purchase property and reside in Malaysia before it was temporarily frozen in August 2020 for the Home Ministry and the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry to be comprehensively reviewed.
The MM2H programme was reactivated on August 11, 2021, with revised conditions after being put on hold for a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Under the 2021 conditions, participants must spend a minimum of 90 cumulative days in the country annually, have an offshore income of at least RM40,000 per month (increased from RM10,000), and maintain a fixed deposit account of at least RM1mil, a requirement described by many as too restrictive. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Malaysia My Second Home,MM2H,Property,Three-Tier | PETALING JAYA: The new three-tier category system for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme will be a permanent feature, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/three-tier-mm2h-to-be-a-permanent-feature-says-tiong | |
1,374,244 | China's Premier Li Qiang arrives in Malaysia for three-day official visit | SEPANG: China’s Premier Li Qiang arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday (June 18) to begin his three-day official visit, marking his first trip to the country since assuming the post in March last year.
The Air China aircraft carrying Li and his delegation touched down at the Bunga Raya Complex of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) at 8.44pm.
Among those who welcomed him were the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Malaysia’s Ambassador to China Datuk Norman Muhamad.
Upon arrival, Li inspected a static guard of honour mounted by 28 officers and personnel from the First Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Ceremonial), led by Captain Nur Ahmad Zaim Zahari.
Li’s visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, following the signing of the Joint Communiqué between then prime minister Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and then Chinese premier Chou En Lai on May 31, 1974.
During his visit, Li is scheduled to hold a meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to discuss bilateral matters and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Both leaders will also witness the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding and agreements in various areas of cooperation, including the digital economy, green development, tourism, housing and urban development, higher education, science and technology and the export of agricultural commodities to China.
They will also attend a dinner in celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Li will also have an audience with His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
The Chinese premier is expected to attend the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) groundbreaking ceremony in Gombak and a luncheon with the business communities of both countries.
China has remained Malaysia’s largest trading partner for fifteen consecutive years since 2009, with total trade amounting to RM450.84bil (US$98.9bil) in 2023.
Malaysia’s ties with China have grown from strength to strength since the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2013.- Bernama | News | Nation | Complimentary | Medium | Santhakumar a/l Mahalingam | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | China,PM,Li Qiang,visit,arrival,ECRL,luncheon,bilateral,relations,economy | SEPANG: China’s Premier Li Qiang arrived in Malaysia on Tuesday (June 18) to begin his three-day official visit, marking his first trip to the country since assuming the post in March last year. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/china039s-premier-li-qiang-arrives-in-malaysia-for-three-day-official-visit | |
1,374,243 | Cambodia’s economy on growth track, all sectors recovering fast, says PM Hun Manet | PHNOM PENH (Khmer Times): Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced that the Cambodian economy will grow in 2024 and achieve even higher growth in 2025, with all sectors showing fast recovery.
Hun Manet was speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the twin flyovers at Samdech Techo Hun Sen Blvd, on the border between Phnom Penh and Kandal province.
“We need to think in advance about transportation and roads for people to walk on, and these twin bridges that we are going to build are for the future,” the Prime Minister said.
He added that the bridges will connect Kandal with Phnom Penh and will greatly boost the growth of the surrounding areas.
“Our economy slowed due to the impact of Covid-19, global economic problems and wars but in 2023 Cambodia grew by five percent. In 2024, this will go up to six percent, and next year it may rise even more,” Hun Manet noted.
“All sectors are recovering, so overall growth will increase even more,” he said.
Socio-economic research and development expert Dr Chey Tech of Dynamic Alliance Consulting (DAC) told Khmer Times yesterday that the Prime Minister’s remarks regarding economic growth match that of the forecast of Cambodia’s major development partners such as IMF, ADB and the World Bank.
He added that Cambodia’s economy is growing from year to year due to the right policies and strategies of the Royal Government in creating an attractive investment environment.
“The government has made efforts to attract foreign investment to Cambodia, facilitated trade, improved tax laws, and brought in other service sector reforms,” he noted.
Tech said that to reach the targets of becoming an upper middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2050, Cambodia needs to reform further, including in the short-term, medium-term and long-term.
Aun Pornmoniroth, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Finance, said at an event on June 12 that the Cambodian economy is predicted to grow by six percent in 2024, up from five percent in 2023. - Khmer Times | AseanPlus | Cambodia | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Cambodia,economy,growth,on track,PM announcement | Prime Minister Hun Manet has announced that the Cambodian economy will grow in 2024 and achieve even higher growth in 2025, with all sectors showing fast recovery. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/cambodias-economy-on-growth-track-all-sectors-recovering-fast-says-pm-hun-manet | |
1,374,239 | Laos to hold festival to promote handicrafts and tourism | VIENTIANE (Xinhua): The 23rd Lao Handicraft Festival will be held in capital Vientiane, to promote traditional handicraft products as well as to create a festive atmosphere in the city for tourists during the Visit Laos Year 2024.
The event will be held from Oct. 26 to Nov. 3, to celebrate the Lao National Handicraft Day on Nov. 1, Lao national TV reported on Tuesday.
The festival will also celebrate the recognition of Laos' traditional craft of Naga motif weaving by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
The festival will create an opportunity for local communities and buyers to visit, purchase, and experience the diversity of Lao handicraft products, showcasing the skills of Lao artisans as well as promoting products of local artisans and handicraft entrepreneurs from all over Laos.
In addition, the festival will support the Lao government policy to alleviate poverty and create more linkages with other ASEAN members in terms of handicraft. Enditem | AseanPlus | Laos | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Laos,Festival,Arts and Craft | The 23rd Lao Handicraft Festival will be held in capital Vientiane, to promote traditional handicraft products as well as to create a festive atmosphere in the city for tourists during the Visit Laos Year 2024. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/laos-to-hold-festival-to-promote-handicrafts-and-tourism | |
1,374,234 | Malaysia has 89 companies in first Fortune 500 list of South-East Asia’s largest companies; Maybank is country's top brand | SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): The first South-East Asian edition of the Fortune 500 list, a ranking of the largest companies by revenue, features 89 companies based in Malaysia and 84 companies in Singapore. Indonesia tops the list with 110 while Thailand is close second with 107 companies.
According to Fortune 500, Malaysia's Maybank was seen as the most valuable brand in the country. Mybank was placed 11th in both the Top 20 companies by revenue and the Top 20 by profits lists.
The Straits Times has reported, in a strong showing, five of the top 10 companies ranked by revenue in the fiscal year ending Dec 31, 2023, are based in Singapore.
They include commodities trader Trafigura, which came in first, as well as 10th-ranked DBS Group.
Agribusiness groups Wilmar International and Olam Group as well as manufacturing services provider Flex were the three other top firms from Singapore.
In a statement on June 18, Fortune said that Trafigura dominated the rankings with sales of US$244 billion (S$330 billion).
“The privately held commodity trader in minerals, metals and energy had the fewest employees among the list’s top 10 companies by revenue and is the second most profitable amongst this group,” added the global business media firm.
Trafigura’s sterling result comes even as it grapples with a surge in overdue debts and the fallout of a bribery probe. In March 2024, the trader pleaded guilty in the United States to a decade of oil bribery in Brazil and agreed to pay about US$127 million.
Fortune, which publishes a much-watched annual list of the 500 top-grossing US companies as well as global, Europe and China rankings, said its focus on South-East Asia comes amid the rapid development of the region’s economies and its growing significance in the global economy due to shifting supply chains.
Singapore-headquartered companies make up the largest share of the top 10 and top 20 lists among the South-East Asian countries, whether ranked by revenue or profitability.
As is the case with the top 10 by revenue, five companies figured in the top 10 by profitability.
Singapore contributed nine firms in the top 20 list by revenue, and eight when ranked by profitability.
The inaugural rankings include companies from seven nations in this region - Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Cambodia.
Indonesia contributed the most companies to the overall list with 110 entries. Thailand came in a close second with 107, followed by Malaysia with 89 companies and Singapore with 84.
Meanwhile, Vietnam is home to 70 companies on the list; the Philippines, 38; and Cambodia, two.
The top 10 firms by revenue hailed from an eclectic range of sectors.
While the energy sector held three of the top 10 spots, fast-moving consumer goods, financial services and commodities were represented as well.
The 10 largest companies on the list reported a combined revenue of US$650 billion.
“That accounts for more than a third of the revenue for fiscal year 2023 across all South-east Asia 500 companies which reported total revenues of US$1.8 trillion.
“The minimum revenue threshold to be included on the list was US$460.8 million,” Fortune noted.
(Clockwise from top left) DBS Group, Wilmar International, Flex and Olam Group were among the companies from Singapore in the Fortune list. PHOTOS: ST FILE, FLEX, BT FILE
It also said the energy sector was the region’s largest, with collective revenues of US$590.7 billion, while banking was second largest at US$242 billion.
When ranked on profitability, commercial banks dominated the top 10, accounting for six of the top 10 most profitable companies on the list, Fortune noted.
It added that DBS came out tops among banks in both revenue and earnings. It is also one of only three companies that ranked in the top 10 both in terms of revenue and profits.
The other two are Trafigura and Indonesian state-owned energy firm Pertamina.
Overall, revenues and profits shrank over the past year for companies on the South-east Asia 500 list, Fortune said.
However, these changes, which it said were driven by weak energy markets, “masked impressive growth stories” in multiple industries.
Fast growers included Indonesian miners Harita Nickel and Merdeka Battery Materials, travel companies like Thai Airways, and a range of insurers and banks, it said.
“The Fortune South-east Asia 500 reflects a dynamic and fast-changing region – one whose core economies are growing notably faster than those of Europe or the US,” said Clay Chandler, Fortune’s executive editor for Asia. | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Malaysia,Myabank,Top Brand,Fortune 500,South-East Asian List | The first South-east Asian edition of the Fortune 500 list, a ranking of the largest companies by revenue, features 89 companies based in Malaysia and 84 companies in Singapore. Indonesia tops the list with 110 while Thailand is close second with 107 companies. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/malaysia-has-89-companies-in-first-fortune-500-list-of-south-east-asias-largest-companies-maybank-is-country039s-top-brand | |
1,374,219 | TM, Singtel’s Nxera form JV to develop next-gen data centres | KUALA LUMPUR: Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) is partnering Nxera, the regional data centre arm of Singapore’s Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit, to develop data centres in Malaysia starting with a sustainable, hyper-connected artificial intelligence (AI)-ready data centre campus in Johor.
The data centre campus in Iskandar Puteri - 16 kilometres from Singapore - would be the largest to date for both TM and Nxera.
The initial phase of the data centre is planned for 64 megawatts (MW) and could be scaled up to 200MW in response to market demand, the telecommunications service providers (telcos) said in a statement today.
According to the statement, the strategic partnership aims to serve the needs of hyperscalers, next-generation AI application providers, and enterprises pursuing accelerated digitalisation and cloud in the region.
"This high-power density campus will be able to host large computing and AI capabilities such as requirements by cloud hyperscalers, graphics processing units (GPU)-as-a-service providers and features advanced technologies such as liquid cooling to support high-power density workloads and operations efficiently.
"The data centre will be a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified green building, emphasising its commitment to greater energy efficiency and sustainable practices,” it said.
TM group chief executive officer (CEO) Amar Huzaimi Md Deris said the collaboration of two main telcos in the region is unique and has a positive impact on the development of a digital ecosystem that not only benefits businesses but also nurtures future talent.
"Establishing a hyperconnected AI-ready data centre marks the next phase in our long-standing partnership with Singtel, leveraging our strengths and commitment to elevate ASEAN as the preferred digital hub destination.
"TM brings the largest domestic network infrastructure, extensive international subsea cable systems, and the largest interconnected data centre in Malaysia, a solid backbone for this project,” he said.
Amar Huzaimi noted that the data centre would catalyse high-performance computing and lay a solid foundation for the future advancement of cloud and AI applications.
He also said that through the partnership, TM continues to demonstrate its dedication to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions, marking a pivotal step in its aspiration to become a digital powerhouse by 2030.
Meanwhile, CEO of Nxera and Singtel's Digital InfraCo unit Bill Chang said the collaboration advances its vision to be the region’s leading sustainable, hyperconnected AI-ready data centre platform, supporting businesses with the digital infrastructure needed for the growing demand for cloud, digitalisation and AI.
"The first data centre campus development in Johor, which can be expanded in phases, demonstrates our ability to scale quickly in markets that are important to our customers.
"With our joint industry expertise and strong track record, we will build and operate one of the most efficient, sustainable and connectivity-rich data centres in Malaysia,” he said.
In addition to data centres, Chang said the company would be expanding the submarine cable connectivity between Singapore and Johor to enhance digital connectivity.
He said the joint venture would also partner with institutes of higher learning in Malaysia to nurture talent for projects and the industry. - Bernama | Business | Technology | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Technology,Corporate News,TM,Data Centre,AI,Singapore,Nxera | KUALA LUMPUR: Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) is partnering Nxera, the regional data centre arm of Singapore’s Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit, to develop data centres in Malaysia starting with a sustainable, hyper-connected artificial intelligence (AI)-ready data centre campus in Johor. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/18/tm-singtels-nxera-form-jv-to-develop-next-gen-data-centres | |
1,374,211 | Proton achieves five million vehicle units produced in 41 years | KUALA LUMPUR: National carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd (Proton) today hit another historic milestone in its 41-year history when it broke through the five million units produced barrier.
The company said in a statement today that the Proton X90 Flagship was revealed as the five millionth unit produced during a visit to the company headquarters at the Centre of Excellence (COE) complex, Subang Jaya by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Chinese Minister of Industry, and Information Technology Jin Zhuanglong.
Proton chief executive officer Dr Li Chunrong said the revelation of the Proton X90 Flagship symbolises the company's progress since the beginning of the partnership with Geely Group in 2017.
"Just last week, we confirmed e.MAS as the brand name for future Proton electric vehicle (EV) products and today as we set yet another milestone, the future is ripe with opportunities for Proton to continue to provide sustainable mobility for Malaysians and our export markets," he said in a statement today.
Meanwhile, the company said Proton has launched four all-new models jointly developed with its shareholder, upgraded its locally designed models, and introduced intelligence and connectivity to its entire lineup since the collaboration with Geely.
It said together with improvements in product quality, investments in after sales and parts management as well as the establishment of a dealer network with the highest number of 3S/4S outlets, these activities have led to five consecutive years of sales growth with a corresponding increase in production.
"From the introduction of the Proton X70 on Dec 12, 2018, more than 217,000 units of the company’s X-series of sports utility vehicle (SUVs) have been sold thus far to local and export market customers.
"This makes Proton far and away the overall leader for SUV sales in Malaysia during that time period," it said.
Sales of the Proton Saga have surpassed two million units, allowing it to keep its position as the most popular Malaysian-made car of all time, the company added. - Bernama | Business | Auto | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Auto,Automotive,Proton,Proton X90,Li Chunrong,e.MAS,EV | KUALA LUMPUR: National carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd (Proton) today hit another historic milestone in its 41-year history when it broke through the five million units produced barrier. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/18/proton-achieves-five-million-vehicle-units-produced-in-41-years | |
1,374,195 | Ringgit ends higher against US dollar | KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit was higher against the American dollar at the close on Tuesday ahead of fresh US economic data later tonight, said an analyst.
At 6 pm, the ringgit advanced to 4.7110/7155 versus the greenback from Friday’s close of 4.7190/7225.
The market was closed yesterday for the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration.
ActivTrades trader Anderson Alves said market players are awaiting fresh leads with the US retail sales report due later today. He added that investors are also cautious ahead of a series of US Federal Reserve (Fed) speeches by senior officials, also later today.
Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid noted that the US Dollar Index (DXY) has continued to hover above 105 points as the euro, which is a major component of DXY, fell against the US dollar on concern over the snap election in France which will be held this month.
At the close, the ringgit was traded mostly higher against a basket of major currencies.
The local unit appreciated against the Japanese yen to 2.9798/9828 from last Friday’s close of 3.0046/0072, strengthened vis-a-vis the British pound to 5.9750/9807 from 5.9955/9999 but slid versus the euro to 5.0492/0541 from 5.0418/0455 previously.
The ringgit traded higher against its Asean peers.
It went up vis-a-vis the Indonesian rupiah to 287.0/287.3 from 287.5/287.8 at last Friday’s close, inched up versus the Thai baht to 12.7874/8048 from 2.8328/8475 and edged up against the Singapore dollar to 3.4793/4829 from 3.4857/4886. It was higher against the Philippine peso at 8.03/8.05 from 8.04/8.05. - Bernama | Business | Forex | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Forex,Ringgit,US dollar,ActivTrades,US DXY,Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid,Anderson Alves | KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit was higher against the American dollar at the close on Tuesday ahead of fresh US economic data later tonight, said an analyst. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/18/ringgit-ends-higher-against-us-dollar | |
1,374,176 | Fahmi: Malaysia ready to roll out dual 5G network | KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian government remains committed to implementing a dual 5G network policy, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
He said telecommunications companies involved in the dual network model will complete the equity holding process in Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) on June 21.
"Immediately after that, the process of identifying the telco that will develop the second 5G network will begin," Fahmi stated on his Facebook page after a courtesy visit from China's Minister of Industry and Information Technology, Jin Zhuanglong.
During the meeting, which lasted over 40 minutes, Fahmi said they discussed various telecommunications issues, including the implementation of the second 5G network.
Fahmi said the development of the second network will only be open to telcos that have completed equity holdings in DNB.
He said while the implementation of the second 5G network is commercial in nature, the government, through the Ministry of Communications, has decided on a dual network policy to drive competition and ensure the sustainability of the telecommunications ecosystem in Malaysia.
"In addition, our discussion also focused on efforts to strengthen the relationship between the two ministries," he added.
Fahmi also said the potential of "direct-to-cell" technology involving low earth orbit satellites to help address internet connectivity issues in remote areas and places with no internet access. - Bernama | Business | Business | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | 5G,Fahmi Fadzil,dual network,DNB,Jin Zhuanglong | KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian government remains committed to implementing a dual 5G network policy, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/18/fahmi-malaysia-ready-to-roll-out-dual-5g-network | |
1,374,164 | Brunei school unveils major solar PV project with aims of reducing carbon footprint and promote renewable energy usage | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/ANN): The Jerudong International School (JIS) on Tuesday became Brunei’s first school to undertake a major solar installation and integrate a comprehensive solar energy system, according to a press release.
The school installed over 600 solar panels, expected to produce nearly 600,000 KWh of energy annually. This initiative aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint and promote renewable energy usage within the JIS campus community.
The solar panels are strategically placed on the roofs of several key buildings: 99 panels on the eLearning Centre (eLC), 88 panels on the lecture theatre (LEC), 88 panels on the D&T Block (Q Block), and 336 panels on the Sports Complex.
With the support of Berakas Power Company Sdn Bhd and Serikandi Group of Companies, the school is utilising a highly efficient solar PV system with an expected lifespan of 25 years, ensuring long-term benefits for the school.
The launch ceremony, held at the JIS Arts Centre during the school’s Earth Week, began with opening remarks by Principal Nicholas Sheehan and a presentation by JIS students showcasing various green initiatives around the school.
The ceremony featured insightful speeches from prominent figures in the energy sector. Executive Director and Group Chief Strategy Officer of Solarvest Holdings Bhd Leon Liew Chee Ing discussed energy innovation and economics towards a greener world.
Drone photo of the Solar Panels on top of the Sports Complex.- PHOTO: JIS via Borneo Bulletin/ANN
Head of the Energy Transition Division at the Prime Minister’s Office Shirley Sikun highlighted energy efficiency and conservation, while Technical Director of Serikandi Group of Companies Dato Paduka Awang Jamain Julaihi explored the prospects of solar energy and career options in Brunei.
Supported by the Ministry of Education (MoE), around 100 students from local schools were invited to attend the event, encouraging a passion for sustainability and innovation among the younger generation.
JIS said that the Solar PV Project was initiated in the JIS Academic Year 2021-2022, with a formal contract starting in 2023. This aligns with Brunei’s recent increase in renewable energy efforts. During the Energy Seminar in July 2023, it was stated that Brunei aims to advance its national solar energy target to 200 megawatts by 2025, with solar power comprising at least 30 per cent of the overall power generation mix by 2035.
To keep the school community engaged and informed, JIS will display a public user interface on screens around the school, providing daily data on the performance of the solar PV panels. This information includes the amount of energy conserved, power produced, and CO2 emissions reduced. Additionally, the screens will present various equivalency metrics, such as the amount of coal saved in tonnes, the number of lightbulbs saved, and the number of trees needed to absorb the same amount of CO2.
JIS said it is also proud to hold the Global Eco Schools Green Flag Award for its outstanding environmental initiatives. These include the Outdoor Discovery Centre (ODC), a 10,000m² space being reforested on campus, the creation of rainwater harvesting tanks across campus, and a paper recycling initiative in collaboration with EnEvo Sdn Bhd.
“This latest initiative underscores the school’s commitment to educating students on adopting more sustainable practices by modeling environmentally friendly behavior and leading by example,” the school added in the press release.
“As schools worldwide increasingly prioritise sustainability, we aim to stand as a beacon of environmental leadership, advocating for eco-friendly practices on campus and beyond,” said Principal Nicholas Sheehan. “Protecting our planet is a global issue that affects us all. There is too much at stake if we don’t start taking action through environmental initiatives now.” - Borneo Bulletin/ANN | AseanPlus | Brunei | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Brunei,Jerudong International School,Solar Panels,New Project,First In Country | The Jerudong International School (JIS) on Tuesday became Brunei’s first school to undertake a major solar installation and integrate a comprehensive solar energy system, according to a press release. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/brunei-school-unveils-major-solar-pv-project-with-aims-of-reducing-carbon-footprint-and-promote-renewable-energy-usage | |
1,374,149 | China dismisses EU comments on human rights crackdown | BEIJING/BRUSSELS (Reuters): China on Tuesday dismissed European Union calls for it to stop alleged human rights violations and said it opposed "double standards" and interference in its internal affairs.
The EU said on Monday after an EU delegation visited Tibet and met with Chinese officials last week that it was concerned about what it called the "very serious" human rights situation in China, in particular in Xinjiang, Tibet and Hong Kong.
This included a crackdown on human rights defenders, lawyers and journalists in China. The EU urged China to investigate any rights violations and expressed concern about cases of unlawful detention, enforced disappearance, torture and ill-treatment, the EU said in a statement.
In response, Chinese officials said the EU should "stop interfering in China's internal affairs under the pretext of human rights issues".
Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told reporters at a briefing that China was willing to cooperate with the EU on the issue on a basis of equality and mutual respect.
"At the same time, China firmly opposes politicizing the human rights issue and double standards, and opposes imposing one's own model on others. We are opposed to...engaging in microphone diplomacy in the multilateral arena," Lin said.
Lin said both sides believed the dialogue was "frank and in-depth", and said that China was willing to explore further multilateral human rights cooperation in areas including rights of women, children and the disabled.
The EU also raised the case of the detained Swedish citizen Gui Minhai as well as the imprisoned Uyghur intellectuals Ilham Tohti, Gulshan Abbas and Rahile Dawut, the EU statement said.
Chinese #MeToo activist and independent journalist Huang Xueqin was sentenced to five years in prison for subversion on Friday, which supporters called arbitrary and politically motivated.
(Reporting by Marine Strauss in Brussels, Laurie Chen in Beijing and Beijing Newsroom, Editing by Angus MacSwan) | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Chinam EU,Comments,Crackdown,Interference,double standards | China on Tuesday dismissed European Union calls for it to stop alleged human rights violations and said it opposed "double standards" and interference in its internal affairs. | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/china-dismisses-eu-comments-on-human-rights-crackdown | |
1,374,132 | Nine arrested after foreigner found dead with stab wounds, head injury in Ipoh | IPOH: Police have arrested nine foreigners comprising eight men and one woman, after a foreign man was found dead with stab wounds and a head injury at a construction site in Taman Menglembu here early Tuesday (June 18) morning.
Ipoh district police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said the nine foreigners, aged 21 to 41, were arrested at 5am.
Preliminary investigations revealed the body of the man was found at 1.23am.
"The victim was a foreigner in his 20s to 30s. His identity is still being ascertained pending confirmation from his employer," he said in a statement on Tuesday.
He also said checks revealed blunt force trauma to the left side of the victim's face and six stab wounds and scratches on the body.
An autopsy conducted at 11am confirmed that death was caused by blunt force trauma to the head.
"The police are urging those with information on the case to come forward and provide their statements to investigating officer ASP Chua Sze Yuan at 012-619 5312 or any nearby police station," he said.
The nine foreigners have been remanded for a week till June 24 to facilitate the murder investigation, he added. – Bernama | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Courts Crime,Murder,Foreigner,Arrests,Ipoh,Taman Menglembu | IPOH: Police have arrested nine foreigners comprising eight men and one woman, after a foreign man was found dead with stab wounds and a head injury at a construction site in Taman Menglembu here early Tuesday (June 18) morning. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/nine-arrested-after-foreigner-found-dead-with-stab-wounds-head-injury-in-ipoh | |
1,374,120 | Hong Kong paraglider who went missing for six hours dies after being found unconscious | A 74-year-old Hong Kong paraglider who went missing for more than six hours while flying on Lantau Island has died after being found unconscious.
The police said on Tuesday morning the man was certified dead at North Lantau Hospital, adding that the cause of death could only be confirmed after autopsy.
The man, reportedly a retired police officer with years of paragliding experience, took off on Monday afternoon from eastern Sunset Peak, the third-highest in Hong Kong.
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Due to foggy weather, he was said to have lost his way and contact with his teammates, according to Anson Cheng, founder of the Hong Kong Guardians volunteer rescue group.
The man and five friends went to Pak Kung Au with walkie-talkies to paraglide on Sunset Peak, according to a police source.
At about 2.30pm, the man was the first in the group to take off. But shortly after, his peers saw him being blown towards clouds by a sudden gust of wind and heading in the direction of Pui O, also on Lantau.
The group tried to contact him by walkie-talkie and phone but received no response, and he was also out of sight.
At 3pm, when they called out his name, the man managed to communicate through his walkie-talkie, saying he had landed on a tree, and was trapped and injured.
He also said his mobile phone was in his backpack and he could not reach it. He then became uncontactable.
A group member called police for help at about 3.20pm, a spokesman for the force said.
At about 9.25pm, firefighters located the paraglider but could not reach him until 9.50pm, the Fire Services Department said.
A spokeswoman said efforts were under way to move him down the hill, and an ambulance was ready at Pak Kung Au.
More from South China Morning Post:
For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2024. | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | SCMP | Police say man who was said to have lost his way due to foggy weather was certified dead at hospital, adding cause of death to be confirmed after autopsy | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/hong-kong-paraglider-who-went-missing-for-six-hours-dies-after-being-found-unconscious | |
1,374,107 | FBM KLCI reverses early gains to end at intraday low | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI pared its gains and settled in negative territory on Tuesday, following a long weekend, as the market's earlier positive momentum faded with shifting investor sentiment.
At 5pm, the 30-stock index fell 1.19 points, or 0.07% to 1,606.13, its intraday low.
On Bursa Malaysia, there were 766 losers, 480 gainers, and 455 counters that remained unchanged. Turnover stood at 5.93 billion shares valued at RM4.14bil.
The top decliner was PIE Industrial, which lost 33 sen to RM6.75. Kuala Lumpur Kepong fell 28 sen to RM20.22, Chin Hin declined 24 sen to RM3.34 and YTL Power gave up 21 seb to RM5.07.
Meanwhile, the top gainer on Bursa Malaysia was Mercury Industries, which gained 30 sen, or 34.88% to RM1.16 with 586,100 shares traded. Telekom Malaysia rose 29 sen to RM6.81, PETRONAS Gas added 24 sen to RM17.90 and KESM closed up 21 sen to RM7.62.
On the forex market, the ringgit was up[ 0.16% against the greenback to 4.7133 and up 0.17% against the Singapore dollar at 3.4811.
Elsewhere in the region, Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index closed down 0.11%, South Korea’s Kospi added 0.72%, Shanghai’s Composite Index gained 0.48% and Singapore’s Straits Times Index rose 0.1%. | Business | Markets | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Markets,FBM KLCI,KLCI,Bursa Malaysia | KUALA LUMPUR: The FBM KLCI pared its gains and settled in negative territory on Tuesday, following a long weekend, as the market's earlier positive momentum faded with shifting investor sentiment. | https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2024/06/18/fbm-klci-reverses-early-gains-to-end-at-intraday-low | |
1,374,099 | Importance of eggs in M'sian diet main reason for price cut, says Anwar | BUTTERWORTH: The government was prompted to lower the price of eggs as they are the most commonly consumed food by Malaysian families, especially lower-income households, says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said a study found that Malaysians can consume four eggs a day on average, which was the reason for the government’s decision to use savings from subsidies to lower the price by three sen.
"We called the (egg producers) and asked them to lower their profits to help ease the people's burden.
ALSO READ: Egg prices cut across peninsula
"We did not ask them to run at a loss, just to lower their profits," he said in his speech when visiting the Aidiladha Korban Perdana sacrificial ceremony at Masjid Jamek Cerok Tokun Bawah, Bukit Mertajam here on Tuesday (June 18).
“If there are other ways to help with subsidies and saving money, I will make the effort," he added.
On Monday (June 17), the retail price of Grade A, B and C eggs across the country was reduced by three sen as part of the government’s new subsidy initiative.
Anwar said the new prices were set at 42 sen (Grade A), 40 sen (Grade B) and 38 sen (Grade C).
ALSO READ: Tackle egg prices as a supply issue, govt urged
He noted that the subsidy would involve government expenditure of around RM100mil, covering up to 10 sen per egg.
Retail prices for eggs in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan will be adjusted according to the respective zones and districts, he added. | News | Nation | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Anwar Ibrahim,Prime Minister,Price,Eggs,Subsidy,Common,Consumption,Lower Income Group | BUTTERWORTH: The government was prompted to lower the price of eggs as they are the most commonly consumed food by Malaysian families, especially lower-income households, says the Prime Minister. | https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/importance-of-eggs-in-m039sian-diet-main-reason-for-price-cut-says-anwar | |
1,374,093 | Japan reports record spike in flesh-eating bacterial infections | TOKYO: Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal illness caused by a "flesh-eating" bacterium, is increasing notably across Japan, with cases in the first half of this year already exceeding last year's record, local media reported on Tuesday (June 18).
There have been 977 confirmed cases of the disease caused by the bacterium called streptococcus pyogenes which is often associated with strep throat but occasionally leads to limb necrosis and multiple organ failure, Kyodo News reported, citing a national infectious disease institute.
The figure in the first six months of 2024 already surpassed last year's 941, the highest annual number of cases tallied since mandatory reporting began in 1999, the report said.
Tokyo logged the highest number of cases at 145. Infections of more virulent and contagious strains of the bacterium are increasingly being reported, particularly in the Kanto region centering on Tokyo, it added.
Ken Kikuchi, a professor specialising in infectious disease at Tokyo Women's Medical University, said foot wounds are particularly susceptible to streptococcal bacterial infection, and small injuries like blisters and athlete's foot can be entry points, adding it can take as little as 48 hours from infection to death in elderly patients.
"High fever accompanied by delirium or rapid swelling of wounds are dangerous signs," and immediate medical attention should be sought, he said. - Xinhua | AseanPlus | Japan | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Japan,flesh-eating,bacteria | TOKYO: Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal illness caused by a "flesh-eating" bacterium, is increasing notably across Japan, with cases in the first half of this year already exceeding last year's record, local media reported on Tuesday (June 18). | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/japan-reports-record-spike-in-flesh-eating-bacterial-infections | |
1,374,089 | Hong Kong airport urged to review contingency plans after eight-hour runway closure | The Hong Kong Airport Authority has been urged to review its contingency procedures after hundreds of passengers’ travel plans were thrown into turmoil on Monday amid an eight-hour closure of a runway triggered by a cargo plane bursting a tyre during an emergency landing.
The call by a legislator came as an aviation expert also said the authority should have notified the public and other airlines sooner, but he appreciated the long time taken to resume full operations of the runway given the safety concerns involved.
The north runway at the airport was forced to close shortly after 7am after a cargo plane made the emergency return landing when its hydraulic system failed and it burst a tyre upon landing.
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The runway did not resume normal operations until 3.45pm. Nearly half or 450 of the 932 flights handled at the airport between 7am and midnight were delayed as a result, according to the authority.
Only Hong Kong International Airport’s south runway was operating as a result of the emergency. One runway closed for modification works in 2022 and will reopen this year.
Passengers said their itineraries were severely affected, with some missing their onwards connections.
Legislative Council transport panel chairman Chan Han-pan said the authority should review its contingency plans and procedures.
“It has taken too long to resolve the issue. The authority should have a thorough review of their contingency plan to see if there are other ways to speed up the clearance of the runway,” Chan said.
“I am not suggesting the authority should rush and compromise safety. But with the closure of one runway, not only departing flights are affected, so are arriving flights. Those delays could have had a knock-on effect on other flights. Many passengers with connecting flights could have their itineraries completely ruined.
“It is not yet the peak holiday season and passenger traffic has not returned to pre-Covid level either. Otherwise, we could be in big trouble. The authority should not take it too lightly.”
But Ng Kam-hung, an assistant professor at the department of aeronautical and aviation engineering of Polytechnic University, said the time taken to resume full operations was not unreasonably long.
“The incident does not reflect a deficiency in airdrome operations, as its primary concern was safety,” Ng said. “First, brake and tyre replacement at the airdrome requires time. Engineers must inspect for potential defects and assess both the aircraft and runway conditions before proceeding with operations such as cargo offloading and tyre replacement.
“Meanwhile, the aircraft encountered additional issues, including a reported problem with the hydraulic system after it landed on the north runway.
“And also for safety reasons, foreign object detection is necessary, as the airport received an FOD report on the south runway. Handling and removing FOD is crucial to aviation safety or else it could lead to severe consequences.”
But Ng agreed the authority could have done better in the handling of information, arguing it should have released more frequent updates about the incident to the public and other airlines.
“This can allow airlines to use their platforms like mobile apps or text messages to notify their passengers sooner before they go to the airport,” he said. “Although this might not speed up the recovery process, it would give passengers a heads-up.
“For example, those heading to mainland China could then consider alternative transport options, such as the high-speed railway. And passengers travelling overseas could revise their flight plans or mentally prepare themselves for delays.”
He added that the practice of sending flight delay notifications via text message was well-developed on the mainland.
The authority said on Monday it had implemented multiple measures to ease passenger arrivals, including increasing baggage handlers and extending the opening hours of customer service counters.
“[The] airport operation remained generally smooth,” a spokesman for the authority said, adding that public transport companies had also stepped up services between the airport and the city
Monday’s eight-hour closure turned out to be the worst in recent years. Last June, a Cathay Pacific Airways flight to Los Angeles aborted take-off at the airport after an overheated tyre was believed to have burst. The aircraft returned to the gate and evacuated passengers, 11 of whom needed hospital treatment.
There were reports that the south runway had to be briefly closed, resulting in delays to some flights for 30 minutes.
In September 2019, a Hong Kong Airlines flight departing to Bali, Indonesia, suffered hydraulic failure after taking off and had to make an emergency return, followed by a stop on the runway due to a burst main tyre.
The runway was then closed for more than an hour until all 280 passengers disembarked, the tyre was replaced and the aircraft towed off the runway.
In April 2012, a runway was also closed for about four hours after an Emirates flight from Bangkok burst a tyre while landing. The aircraft was damaged after landing, and passengers disembarked on the taxiway using mobile stairs.
More from South China Morning Post:
For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2024. | AseanPlus | AseanPlus News | Complimentary | Long | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | SCMP | Hundreds of passengers’ plans thrown into turmoil after closure of runway triggered by cargo plane bursting tyre during emergency landing | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/hong-kong-airport-urged-to-review-contingency-plans-after-eight-hour-runway-closure | |
1,374,087 | Guo’s lawyer writes to Palace: Mayor innocent; has no Pogo link | MANILA: Suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo (pic) is innocent and ready to cooperate with the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC).
Guo’s representatives from David and Jamilla Law Office delivered a letter to Malacanang addressed to Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who chairs the PAOCC.
In an ambush interview, a member of Guo’s legal counsel, Lorelie Santos, reiterated her client’s innocence.
“It is simply a letter addressed to the Executive Secretary as the Chairman of the PAOCC, just expressing the mayor’s intention that she is one with the commission to uncover the truth and for justice to prevail,” said Santos.
Pressed if Guo is asserting her innocence, Santos responded, “Yes.”
“She is one with the commission and even the Senate to uncover the truth,” said Santos.
In the letter to Bersamin, Guo said the accusations of owning Baofu Land Development Inc., engaging in money laundering, and maintaining Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (Pogo) businesses were baseless.
Guo likewise denied running for mayor of Bamban to protect Baofu.
She also refuted allegations of human trafficking and kidnapping pinned on her by the PAOCC.
The letter to Bersamin comes a day after the PAOCC announced that the commission would file human trafficking charges against Guo. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN | AseanPlus | Philippines | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-18 00:00:00 | Philippines,Guo,Pogo,mayor,Bamban | MANILA: Suspended Bamban Mayor Alice Guo is innocent and ready to cooperate with the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC). | https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/18/guos-lawyer-writes-to-palace-mayor-innocent-has-no-pogo-link | |
1,375,320 | Tennis-Andy Murray forced to retire at Queen's due to injury | LONDON (Reuters) - Record five-times Queen's champion Andy Murray was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury after trailing 4-1 in the opening set of his second-round match against Australian Jordan Thompson on Wednesday.
The former world number one, a three-times Grand Slam champion, had celebrated his 1,000th tour-level singles match by beating Alexei Popyrin 6-3 3-6 6-3 in the first round.
The 37-year-old Murray, who considered retiring in 2019 due to a hip injury, is hoping to win his third Wimbledon next month.
"That's no way to go out, especially for a great champion. I hope that's not his last match (Queen's) but I'm sure it won't be. I'm sure we can hang around one more time," Thompson said.
Murray has said it would be a fitting end to his career if he bowed out at this year's Wimbledon or the Paris Olympics. The Scot, twice Olympic gold medallist, said in February that he was unlikely to continue playing next season.
Wimbledon runs from July 1-14.
(Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru, editing by Ed Osmond) | Sport | Tennis | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | LONDON (Reuters) - Record five-times Queen's champion Andy Murray was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to injury after trailing 4-1 in the opening set of his second-round match against Australian Jordan Thompson on Wednesday. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/tennis/2024/06/20/tennis-andy-murray-forced-to-retire-at-queen039s-due-to-injury | |
1,375,306 | Soccer-A crazy game to remember forever for Albania, says Sylvinho | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Albania's 2-2 draw with Croatia is a match they will never forget, said manager Sylvinho, after his side scored deep in added time to secure a point in their second game of Euro 2024.
Both sides came into the game in desperate need of points having lost their openers, but in the end they shared the spoils - to the Albanians' delight and the Croatians' despair.
"To be honest, when you equalise, I think you deserve the last two or three minutes even to win the game," Sylvinho told reporters.
"But it doesn't matter, it doesn't matter. It was an amazing sensation. We're going to remember this game for all our lives.
"Even I think in the country, in Albania, we are very proud about the supporters, even they come here to help us."
Klaus Gjasula came off the bench with less than 20 minutes to go, but it was enough time for him to score an own goal which put Croatia ahead and then grab an equaliser at the death.
"The game was crazy. The pace of the game, so hard, so difficult. But you decide to put him in the pitch. Unfortunately, he was trying to get up to the pace of the game," the manager said.
"It was difficult for him. But in the end of the game, it was a present for everyone when he scored. What I have to tell you, it's very difficult to come in the game, when you have this kind of game, open and high quality.
"But I have to say 'Thank you'. At the end of the game, he scores and helped us a lot."
That late goal keeps Albania's hopes of progressing in the tournament alive. They will take on Spain in their final Group B game, and the manager promised another battle all the way.
"You have to try to enjoy this kind of tournament. It's very hard, it's difficult. What I promised for the players and for the people, we are fighting for every single point," he said.
"But I think we deserve to win the game. No worries about it, it doesn't matter. We have to go forward. But we have to fight for every single point. It's important for our life, and the life of the (Albanian Football) Federation."
(Reporting by Trevor Stynes; Editing by Hugh Lawson) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Albania's 2-2 draw with Croatia is a match they will never forget, said manager Sylvinho, after his side scored deep in added time to secure a point in their second game of Euro 2024. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-a-crazy-game-to-remember-forever-for-albania-says-sylvinho | |
1,375,305 | Soccer-Denmark still dreaming of glory ahead of England showdown | FRANKFURT, Germany (Reuters) - Denmark have long lost the bitter taste of defeat from three years ago and are not fuelled by thoughts of revenge as they face England in European Championship Group C on Thursday in search of a repeat of their 1992 continental triumph.
The Danes were furious following a 2-1 Euro 2020 semi-final loss to England at Wembley after a spot-kick awarded to the hosts in extra-time led to Harry Kane's winner as he knocked in the rebound after his initial effort was saved.
Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand described it at the time as a "penalty which should not have been a penalty".
"It took me a while to digest it. I carried it for a while," he told reporters on Wednesday. "Those kinds of defeats make us learn and grow, but they also make you believe you can do it, because we were so close (to a final)."
Denmark were disappointed they let a lead slip in a 1-1 draw with Slovenia in their Group C opener, and Hjulmand says there are no thoughts of settling for a point against one of the tournament favourites.
"We are going to go out with the mindset to win the game," he said. "We are going to be fighting for the ball, England have a lot of quality and are good at controlling possession.
"We have had some good results against England when we had control over the ball. So we are going to try do what we are best at. But nothing is gifted, we have fight for it."
Captain Simon Kjaer will be fit to start if selected.
"He could play, he has been doing better. He had a good training session and his numbers look good," Hjulmand said.
Denmark's former Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, whose father Peter lifted the European Championship in 1992, is full of praise for Thursday’s opponents.
"They were a world-class side when they made the final (in 2021) and when you look at the additions that have come in and the experience they have gained, I think this is the best England team since I started watching them," Kasper Schmeichel said.
"I don’t think anyone comes to the Euros without dreaming of a gold medal. We have done it before as a country, my generation was inspired by that win in 1992.
"The standards (to win it) are high and that is how it should be. But if you don’t have dreams, life is not fun."
(Reporting by Nick Said, editing by Ed Osmond) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | FRANKFURT, Germany (Reuters) - Denmark have long lost the bitter taste of defeat from three years ago and are not fuelled by thoughts of revenge as they face England in European Championship Group C on Thursday in search of a repeat of their 1992 continental triumph. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-denmark-still-dreaming-of-glory-ahead-of-england-showdown | |
1,375,221 | Soccer-Sore at lost points, Croatia gun for Italy | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Disappointed at squandering a lead to Albania in the dying seconds of a pulsating Euro 2024 match, Croatia's focus turned straight to beating Italy in their final group game to secure a place in the knockout stages.
Croatia reached the World Cup final in 2018 and the semi-finals in Qatar two years ago, but are again struggling to reproduce that form at the European Championship despite boasting such talents as Luka Modric and Josko Gvardiol.
"The most important thing is that we’re still alive. We have to go for the win against Italy," coach Zlatko Dalic said after his side's 2-2 draw in Hamburg left them with one point and bottom of Group B on goal difference.
Against Albania, ranked 56 places lower, they were shocked by an early goal and did not recover until the second half when they flooded forward and scored twice in quick succession - before Klaus Gjasula snatched a stoppage-time equaliser.
"First half we played badly. We were very slow. In the second half we played a lot better, a lot more decisive," added Dalic.
"We gave our all to get to 2-1 and for 45 minutes our opponent couldn’t pass the half-way line, and then in extra time we allowed them to come at us and we conceded this goal."
DIFFICULT STORY
Dalic, whose team lost their opening game 3-0 to Spain, said he had not expected the tournament to be so hard for Croatia but noted other teams with big pedigree had struggled too.
"We didn’t expect to have such a difficult story in these two matches, it has been a struggle," he said.
"The World Cup was two years ago and slowly our players are getting older, and this whole tournament has shown us that everyone is having a hard time ... It is very open and the teams are pretty equal."
His players acknowledged they must improve.
"The disappointment is huge. Something like this must not happen to a team like us. We were leading and should have ended this calmly, but this is a lesson to learn," midfielder Luka Sucic said.
"The second half was better, it shows how to start against Italy ... If we play like in the second half we will surely get through this group."
Man of the match Andrej Kramaric, who scored Croatia's first goal, was philosophical.
"This is why everyone loves football. In the last seconds, sometimes you score a winner, sometimes you concede, unfortunately that is what happened to us," he said.
"We should have won. But that’s football. Croatia can't do anything the easy way. Everything is still open. We are well aware we are playing against a top team Italy. We have to win, we have to give our all."
(Reporting by Andrew Cawthorne and Daria Sito-Sucic, Editing by Ed Osmond) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Disappointed at squandering a lead to Albania in the dying seconds of a pulsating Euro 2024 match, Croatia's focus turned straight to beating Italy in their final group game to secure a place in the knockout stages. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-sore-at-lost-points-croatia-gun-for-italy | |
1,375,220 | Analysis-Soccer-Croatia just can't seem to get it right at the Euros | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Croatia's fans have been spoiled for success in recent years, but they could be forgiven for wondering whether the side that turns up at the European Championships bears any resemblance to their World Cup overachievers.
Their Euro 2024 hopes were left hanging by a thread after another sleepy display against Albania on Wednesday in which they switched off at key moments and failed to put their opponents to the sword in a 2-2 draw.
For a brief time in the second half, they played with the same style and thrust as the teams that reached the World Cup final in 2018 and the semis four years later.
But for all of the first half and the final 10 minutes of the second they resembled the Croatia that has never been past the quarter-finals at the European Championship and fell in the last 16 at the previous two editions.
After their 3-0 defeat by Spain in their Group B opener, Croatia needed a fast start. Instead they produced the opposite, falling behind after 11 minutes when Qazim Laci ghosted in and glanced home a header that Croatia keeper Dominik Livakovic should have kept out.
What followed was a soporific display of the art of passing for passing's sake. If passing teams to death was a successful strategy then Croatia would be football's most lethal executioners. But hogging the ball in the first half with over 60% possession got them nowhere.
It was a similar story in their opener when they had more possession than Spain - the first team to do so in 136 competitive matches since the Euro 2008 final - but ended up losing 3-0.
Like a medieval army picking an elevated spot to engage in battle, Albania were happy to concede territory up the field in favour of packing the final third, safe in the knowledge that Croatia would not hurt them.
That strategy fell apart in the second half, however, after Croatia brought on substitutes Luka Sucic and Mario Pasalic in the break and looked almost unrecognisable as they tore into their opponents.
They levelled when Andrej Kramaric shot through the legs of Elseid Hysaj into the bottom corner in the 73rd minute and took the lead when Albania's Klaus Gjasula saw the ball bounce off him into his own goal.
That should have been the cue for Croatia to twist the knife or at least shut up shop. Instead they seemed to slacken off and invite the Albanians back into the match.
It was deep in stoppage time when Albania drew level, with Gjasula drilling his finish hard and low into net to make up for his earlier own goal.
Croatia's fans were silenced and no doubt thinking they had seen this all before at the Euros.
At Euro 2020, Zlatko Dalic's side conceded twice in extra time in a 5-3 last-16 defeat to Spain, while in 2016 they conceded with three minutes left of extra time against eventual champions Portugal at the same stage.
In 2012 they didn't escape the group stage after Spain bagged an 88th-minute winner in their final game and there was a similar tale of woe in 2008 when they lost on penalties in the quarters.
They will now almost certainly need to beat Italy in their final group game on Monday to have any chance of reaching the knockouts.
Croatian fans will be hoping it's their World Cup side who turn up in Leipzig rather than the Euros one that just can't seem to get it right.
(Reporting by Toby Davis; Editing by Hugh Lawson) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - Croatia's fans have been spoiled for success in recent years, but they could be forgiven for wondering whether the side that turns up at the European Championships bears any resemblance to their World Cup overachievers. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/analysis-soccer-croatia-just-can039t-seem-to-get-it-right-at-the-euros | |
1,375,219 | Soccer-Reaction to the 2-2 draw between Croatia and Albania at Euro 2024 | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - The following is reaction to the 2-2 draw between Croatia and Albania in Euro 2024 Group B on Wednesday.
Albania manager Sylvinho: "I am very happy with the team, I think we have deserved (the result). We played with heart. We fought with heart and it is exactly what represents this nation.
"This point will serve this team for the rest of their life. We are a young national team, this is only the second time being in this competition, we have to enter the pitch and use every moment to fight with heart and to take lessons from Euro.
"This is a game that I will remember all my life."
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic: "This was a difficult match, with two totally different halves. A lot of energy was invested to lead 2-1 and then we get goal in added time. It is difficult to get a goal in the last minute.
"The first half was very bad and the second much better, which is encouraging for the match with Italy, the victory over Italy will take us further. We are still in game, we shall prepare and do all in our power to go on."
Croatia's Andrej Kramaric, player of the match: "In the first half, we couldn't create anything. In the second half, of course it was a different image. We were much more aggressive, dominant.
"What I want to say is that this is football, this is why everyone loves football. In the last seconds, sometimes you score a goal to win, sometimes you concede, unfortunately that is what happened to us."
Albanian midfielder Qazim Laci who opened the scoring in the 11th minute: "This result will give us a confidence to move forward, to believe in ourselves.
"The game with Spain will be more difficult but we will give the maximum to have a victory."
Albanian midfielder Klaus Gjasula, whose own goal put Croatia ahead before he netted the added time equaliser: "2-2 is okay. With a little luck we could had scored the third one also.
"We know that the game with Spain is very difficult but in football everything is possible. If we will play like today everything can happen."
Luka Sucic, Croatian midfielder: "The disappointment is huge, something like this must not happen to a team like us, we were leading and should have ended this calmly, but this is a lesson to learn.
"The second half was better, it is a direction how to start against the Italians. I believe in our qualities, I am an optimist, if we play like in the second half we will surely pass this group."
(Reporting by Trevor Stynes; Editing by Toby Chopra) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) - The following is reaction to the 2-2 draw between Croatia and Albania in Euro 2024 Group B on Wednesday. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-reaction-to-the-2-2-draw-between-croatia-and-albania-at-euro-2024 | |
1,375,217 | Soccer-Serbia will start with confidence against Slovenia, coach says | MUNICH, Germany (Reuters) - Serbia will not repeat the mistake of their Euro 2024 opener against England by showing Slovenia too much respect, manager Dragan Stojkovic said on Wednesday, adding that he plans to make two changes to the starting lineup for his side's next game.
Stojkovic brushed aside reports of a bust-up with the influential Dusan Tadic, saying the player had apologised after criticizing the coach publicly for leaving him out of the starting line up in the 1-0 Group C loss to England.
"Whatever he said, he said," Stojkovic said, who told a news conference he plans to return Tadic to the starting lineup against Slovenia. "He apologised. We are moving on. Now the most important thing is to play against Slovenia."
"Against England we started playing with too much respect," he added. "We started playing football against them and that's how we're going to play this match."
With Juventus player Filip Kostic ruled out of the tournament with injury, Serbia will nevertheless look to repeat their second-half display against England when they ratcheted up the pressure as they searched for an equalizer.
Serbia sit at the bottom of Group C behind Denmark and Slovenia on one point each, with England in first place on three points. This makes a Serbia win critical, Stojkovic said.
"We'll do all we can to win against Slovenia," he said. "We're not going to go into this match thinking about any other result."
An estimated 30,000 Serbian supporters are expected to travel to Munich for the match at the Munich Football Arena on Thursday, something Stojkovic said would provide extra motivation for the players.
Serbia forward Aleksandar Mitrovic said he didn't expect any surprises from Slovenia and underlined his manager's desire to approach the match like the second half against England, with every player who enters the pitch ready to give their all.
"If you ask me I'd like to attack and keep the ball for 90 minutes," Mitrovic said. "I'd like to keep attacking."
"This is the match we are living for. Good opponent. Full stadium. Whoever is going to come on to the pitch will do the maximum."
(Reporting by Michael Kahn, Editing by Hugh Lawson) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | MUNICH, Germany (Reuters) - Serbia will not repeat the mistake of their Euro 2024 opener against England by showing Slovenia too much respect, manager Dragan Stojkovic said on Wednesday, adding that he plans to make two changes to the starting lineup for his side's next game. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-serbia-will-start-with-confidence-against-slovenia-coach-says | |
1,375,216 | Soccer-Germany stick with winning lineup, Hungary make two changes | STUTTGART (Reuters) - Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann made no changes to the lineup that beat Scotland 5-1 in their Group A opener, keeping faith with midfielder Robert Andrich for his side's second group match against Hungary on Wednesday.
Andrich was taken off at halftime in the first game to make way for Pascal Gross, but Nagelsmann is sticking with his midfield trio of Andrich, Toni Kroos and Ilkay Gundogan.
Hungary head coach Marco Rossi has made two changes to the lineup that lost to Switzerland, fielding Bendeguz Bolla in the place of Adam Lang and Marton Dardai instead of left back Attila Szalai.
Germany: Manuel Neuer, Antonio Ruediger, Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich, Kai Havertz, Toni Kroos, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Maximilian Mittelstaedt, Ilkay Gundogan (C), Robert Andrich
Hungary: Peter Gulacsi; Willi Orban, Attila Fiola, Marton Dardai; Milos Kerkez, Andras Schafer, Adam Nagy, Bendeguz Bola, Dominiki Szoboszlai; Roland Sallai, Barnabas Varga.
(Reporting by Karolos Grohmann; Editing by Toby Chopra and Hugh Lawson) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Short | null | 2024-06-20 00:00:00 | null | STUTTGART (Reuters) - Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann made no changes to the lineup that beat Scotland 5-1 in their Group A opener, keeping faith with midfielder Robert Andrich for his side's second group match against Hungary on Wednesday. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/20/soccer-germany-stick-with-winning-lineup-hungary-make-two-changes | |
1,375,160 | Soccer-Albania score stoppage time equaliser to hold careless Croatia | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) -Albania snatched an equaliser in added time for a stunning 2-2 draw against Croatia in a thrilling European Championship contest on Wednesday, but the result left both countries with a tall order if they are to progress to the last-16.
Klaus Gjasula proved both hero and villain, bagging the added time leveller after having earlier netted an own goal that saw Croatia go 2-1 up in the Group B clash at the Volksparkstadion.
Both countries now have a single point after their opening two matches and are left effectively needing to win their last group games on Monday if they are to progress into the knockout stage.
No team has made the next round with just two draws since the Euro finals expanded to 24 teams in 2016 -- offering a place in the last-16 to the four best third-placed finishers.
Albania had taken an early lead but the Croats scored twice in the space of two minutes to revive their hopes in a match full of twists and turns and played to a backdrop of ear-splitting noise.
Andrej Kramaric grabbed a 74th minute equaliser and then followed an own goal from Gjasula 120 seconds later as an increasingly dominant Croatia, who lost 3-0 to Spain in their opening game, clawed their way back.
They had pounded away at the Albania goal in the second half after looking anxious and frustrated at halftime as their unfancied opponents went into the break ahead.
Qazim Laci’s 11th minute header put Albania in an early lead, as had been the case against Italy in their opening game when they scored after just 23 seconds.
This time they were a touch tardy, weathering early pressure before Jasir Asani whipped in a cross from the right that Laci got a glancing head to before it slipped under goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
The Croat keeper could have done better but made up for the slip with two key saves later in the first half, denying Kristjan Asllani and then stopping Rey Manaj’s diving header as Albania came close to doubling their lead.
Albania’s gritty determination - and the speed with which they seized counterattacking opportunities - belied their lowly ranking, some 56 places below 10th placed Croatia.
A double change at the break for Croatia was followed by intense pressure on the Albania goal with Thomas Strakosha saving from Luka Sucic and Mateo Kovacic to keep the lead intact right until the 74th minute when Kramaric, on his 33rd birthday, netted from close range.
He shot through the legs of Elseid Hysaj while wrongfooting Strakosha.
Then came the own goal as Ante Budimir’s shot, set up by Mario Pasalic's pull back from the byline, was blocked by Berat Djimsiti only for the rebound to hit Gjasula and go into his own net.
But Albania were not to be outdone and Gjasula sidefooted into the net with five minutes of additional time already played for a dramatic conclusion to the contest.
"This is why everyone loves football. In the last seconds, sometimes you score a goal to win, sometimes you concede," said Kramaric.
Albania finish their group schedule against Spain in Duesseldorf on Monday and Gjasula said they held out hope.
"We know that the game with Spain is very difficult but in football everything is possible. If we will play like today everything can happen,” he told reporters.
Croatia will meet Italy in Leipzig at the same time with the odds against them.
"The first half was very bad but the second much better, which is encouraging for the match with Italy," added Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic. "We are still in the game, we shall prepare and do all in our power to go on."
(Additional reporting by Andrew Cawthorne; Editing by Toby Chopra) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | HAMBURG, Germany (Reuters) -Albania snatched an equaliser in added time for a stunning 2-2 draw against Croatia in a thrilling European Championship contest on Wednesday, but the result left both countries with a tall order if they are to progress to the last-16. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/19/soccer-croatia-and-albania-draw-2-2-in-thriller | |
1,375,156 | Soccer-We are like Armani but we can get dirty too, Italy coach says | GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (Reuters) - Italy go into Thursday's Euro 2024 encounter with Spain hoping to play as elegantly as if they were dressed in their Giorgio Armani suits but they are ready to get themselves dirty if required, coach Luciano Spalletti said.
"We wear Giorgio Armani and Giorgio Armani is known around the whole world," Spalletti told reporters on Wednesday when asked if the Group B game with Spain would test his ability to give Italy a new identity, less than a year into the job.
"We will wear the same suit, we will try to be the same. Of course we really want to play the game our way and to measure ourselves against one of strongest teams...We will be there, well dressed but ready to get our clothes dirty if needed."
Both sides won their opening Euro 2024 games, Spain cruising past Croatia 3-0 while Italy had to overcome the shock of conceding the fastest goal in the history of European Championship tournaments to beat Albania 2-1.
Italy are the defending European champions but they failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup - their second such failure in a row - and Spalletti is building a new-look side after his predecessor Roberto Mancini walked out to coach Saudi Arabia.
Spain under Luis de la Fuente are looking for revenge for their elimination by Italy at Euro 2020, the latest twist in a long European Championship history involving the two countries.
The outcome of contest in the Arena AufSchalke will be crucial in determining who comes top of what is considered the toughest group in this year's tournament, a position that will probably offer an easier tie in the first knockout round.
Spalletti said Croatia were punished by Spain for lapses in concentration and it was crucial that his players kept focused, with Spain's experienced centre-forward Alvaro Morata and 16 year-old sensation Lamine Yamal so lethal on the counter-attack.
Pressed by Spanish reporters about his views on Spain's free-flowing attacking style, Spalletti said his main concern was making sure his side stuck to their approach.
"We have total respect for Spain's history and the quality of the team but you must not think that you are stronger than you actually are," he said. "We have a chance to play the game our way. We will see whether we can do that."
(Writing by William Schomberg; Editing by Toby Chopra) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | GELSENKIRCHEN, Germany (Reuters) - Italy go into Thursday's Euro 2024 encounter with Spain hoping to play as elegantly as if they were dressed in their Giorgio Armani suits but they are ready to get themselves dirty if required, coach Luciano Spalletti said. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/19/soccer-we-are-like-armani-but-we-can-get-dirty-too-italy-coach-says | |
1,375,133 | Soccer-Slovakia aim to back up Belgium shock, Ukraine seek redemption | DUESSELDORF, Germany (Reuters) - Slovakia pulled off the biggest statistical shock in European Championship history when they stunned Belgium in their opening match at Euro 2024 but know there is still work to be done if they are capitalise on their sensational start.
Ivan Schranz's early goal earned Slovakia - 48th in the world rankings - a 1-0 victory over the third-ranked team, the biggest rankings gap ever overcome by an underdog, according to Opta.
It also blew Group E wide open ahead of their clash with Ukraine on Friday in Duesseldorf.
Ukraine, meanwhile, were taken apart in a 3-0 defeat by Romania and will be desperate to make amends.
A fifth successive victory in competitive matches for Francesco Calzona's Slovakia on Friday would guarantee them a place in the last 16 -- equalling their run of 2016.
But midfielder Tomas Suslov, whose father is Ukrainian, warned that they must not get too far ahead of themselves.
"I'll tell the truth, I was surprised by Ukraine's result," he said at a media conference on Tuesday.
"Certainly, we know that three points will not be enough for us. Yesterday we already talked about the fact that we cannot underestimate anything, since we have not yet progressed.
"We don't expect an easier game than in the match against Belgium. If we want to succeed, we will have to do at least the same thing again."
Complacency is unlikely from a vastly-experienced Slovakia team whose starting line-up against Croatia had an average age of 31 with three players -- right back Peter Pekarik, midfielder Juraj Kucka and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka -- over 35.
"It was huge to beat the third country in the world," Dubravka said. "But we are not calculating anything. The next game is vital and we have to prepare for the next opponent."
While Slovakia will be buoyed by their run of good form, Ukraine's hopes of reaching the knockout rounds were dealt a cruel blow as they dominated possession against Romania but managed only two shots on target and were picked off.
Ukraine, however, have not lost consecutive matches since 2020 and they will need to at least keep that run going to ensure they go into their final game against Belgium with hope.
Coach Serhiy Rebrov said before the Romania game that his players were all receiving personal messages from soldiers fighting on the frontline against Russia.
And while his young team failed to rise to the challenge in their opening game, Rebrov expects a reaction against Slovakia from the likes of Mykhailo Mudryk and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
"They know their performance was poor. We represent a great country that has been fighting for its own freedom for two years. They disappointed our fans," he said.
"Against Slovakia, we have to show a completely different Ukraine."
(Reporting by Martyn Herman; Editing by Toby Chopra) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | DUESSELDORF, Germany (Reuters) - Slovakia pulled off the biggest statistical shock in European Championship history when they stunned Belgium in their opening match at Euro 2024 but know there is still work to be done if they are capitalise on their sensational start. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/19/soccer-slovakia-aim-to-back-up-belgium-shock-ukraine-seek-redemption | |
1,375,131 | Soccer-Germany and Hungary fans bask in Stuttgart sunshine ahead of crunch clash | STUTTGART, Germany (Reuters) -Overnight storms cleared and the sun was shining on Stuttgart on Wednesday as thousands of fans arrived in the city centre ahead of one of the most anticipated matches of Euro 2024's group stage between Germany and Hungary.
Hosts Germany will be looking to reach the knockout stage with a second successive win in Group A while Hungary need at least a point to have any real hope of extending their stay at the tournament.
The game, a rematch of the 1954 World Cup final when Germany won their first international title, was designated high risk by security services and Stuttgart police had prepared a large presence to deal with any possible disturbances.
However, there were no signs of animosity at the city's main fan park in Schlossplatz with supporters from both nations drinking in the sun, waving huge flags and exchanging chants in a friendly fashion hours ahead of kickoff.
Many Hungarian fans sported national team shirts with the name of their young captain Dominik Szoboszlai on the back, with the 23-year-old already have drawn comparisons as a team leader to the great Ferenc Puskas.
Thousands of Hungary fans gathered at the Mittlerer Schlossgarten near the Stuttgart Arena for a specially choreographed display, organised by supporter group Carpathian Brigade '09. Fans chanted while holding banners, lit flares and smoke bombs as they slowly marched in unison to the stadium.
As kickoff approached, the focus quickly turned to who would come out on top.
"There is no other option. We believe in this. We travelled 1,000 kilometres. We're here. We have to win," Hungary fan Istvan, from near the northern city of Eger, told Reuters.
Hungary coach Marco Rossi said on Tuesday his side needed to play a perfect game to get at least a point against the three-time European champions and supporter Lajos agreed.
"We wish that we will win, (but) the Germans are a lot better," he said. "The Hungarians started badly against Switzerland (but) there is a chance here, if they want to go further, only victory or a draw is acceptable."
Germany fans who saw their side smash Scotland 5-1 in the opener could afford to settle back, perhaps with a few steins of beer, and be a little more relaxed about the match.
"We all have a very good feeling. I hope Germany is the winner," supporter Juergen said.
(Reporting by Christian Radnedge; Editing by Toby Chopra) | Sport | Football | Complimentary | Medium | null | 2024-06-19 00:00:00 | null | STUTTGART, Germany (Reuters) -Overnight storms cleared and the sun was shining on Stuttgart on Wednesday as thousands of fans arrived in the city centre ahead of one of the most anticipated matches of Euro 2024's group stage between Germany and Hungary. | https://www.thestar.com.my/sport/football/2024/06/19/soccer-germany-and-hungary-fans-bask-in-stuttgart-sunshine-ahead-of-crunch-clash |