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Over 20 NATO allies to spend at least 2% of GDP on defense in 2024, says Stoltenberg

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -More than 20 NATO members will meet the alliance's target of allocating at least 2% of GDP to defense this year, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday, highlighting how allies have raised military spending since Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Stoltenberg told U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House that the number of NATO allies now meeting that spending target compares to less than 10 members five years ago. "Across Europe and Canada, NATO allies are this year increasing defense spending by 18%, that's the biggest increase in decades, and 23 allies are going to spend 2% of GDP or more on defense this year," he said. Speaking earlier at the Wilson Center think tank, Stoltenberg said the increase in defense spending by the allies "is good for Europe and good for America, especially since much of this extra money is spent here in the United States." Stoltenberg was in Washington for preparations for next month's NATO summit in the U.S. capital, a topic that he and Biden discussed as well. Biden said the alliance is facing one of the most consequential moments for Europe since World War Two as Ukraine battles Russian forces. "We've strengthened NATO's eastern flank making it clear that we'll defend every single inch of NATO territory," said Biden. Stoltenberg said that when NATO leaders set the 2% of GDP target at their summit in 2014, only three members - the United States, Greece and Britain - met that target. At that time, there were 28 members. NATO now has 32 members. Meeting with reporters after his appearance, Stoltenberg said the trend in increased military spending by NATO members was triggered by Russia's seizure of Crimea in 2014. NATO defense spending has become highly contentious in recent years, particularly as former U.S. President Donald Trump has accused Europeans of spending too little on their own security and relying on the United States for protection. Earlier this year, Trump - the presumptive Republican candidate in this year's U.S. presidential election - sparked outrage by suggesting he would not protect NATO members that failed to spend enough on defense and would even encourage Russia to attack them. Defense spending by many European nations has risen sharply since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and NATO officials have been keen to stress that its European members are now stepping up to the plate. NATO defense spending will be a major topic at next month's alliance summit in Washington, Stoltenberg said, followed by Russia's war against Ukraine. He warned that the delay in the provision of U.S. military aid to Ukraine that occurred earlier this year cannot be allowed to happen again. (Reporting by Jonathan Landay, Daphne Psaledakis, Trevor Hunnicutt and Kanishka Singh; Editing by Susan Fenton and Deepa Babington)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -More than 20 NATO members will meet the alliance's target of allocating at least 2% of GDP to defense this year, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said on Monday, highlighting how allies have raised military spending since Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/over-20-nato-allies-to-spend-at-least-2-of-gdp-on-defense-in-2024-says-stoltenberg

Russian official says Ukraine pouring troops into contested Kharkiv region

(Reuters) - A Russian official said on Monday that fighting was gripping parts of Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region which Moscow has been trying to seize and added that Ukraine's military was pouring men and equipment into the contested area. Ukrainian President Voldodymyr Zelenskiy said Kyiv's forces were gradually pushing Russian troops out of the contested area. His top commander predicted that Moscow would try to press forward pending the arrival in Ukraine of sophisticated Western equipment, including U.S-made F-16 fighter jets. Russian forces crossed into parts of Kharkiv region last month and officials say they have seized about a dozen villages. Vitaly Ganchev, Russia-appointed governor of the areas of Kharkiv region controlled by Moscow, said Russian forces were beating back Ukraine's latest counter-attacks in areas near Vovchansk, five kilometres (three miles) inside the border. "There is fighting still going on in the Kharkiv sector. The fiercest clashes are in Vovchansk and near Lyptsy," Ganchev told Russian news agencies. "The enemy is sending reserves and trying to counter-attack but is meeting a fierce response from our armed forces." Russian President Vladimir Putin said the incursion sought to create a "buffer zone" to prevent Ukraine from shelling border areas, including Belgorod region, opposite Kharkiv. Over the past week, Ukrainian officials have said the Russian advance is firmly under control. Zelenskiy, in his nightly video address, said Ukrainian troops were "gradually pushing the occupiers out of the Kharkiv region". The military's General Staff reported 10 Russian attacks were repelled near Vovchansk and Lyptsi. Ukraine's top military commander, Oleksander Syrskyi, said on Telegram that Moscow's commanders "were building intensity and expanding the geography of military activity. "The enemy clearly understands that the gradual arrival of weapons and equipment from our partners, the arrival of the first F-16s, strengthens our air defences," he wrote. "Time is one our side and their chances of success will diminish." Ukrainian military bloggers said Kyiv's forces were holding positions around Vovchansk and trying to break through Russian lines to consolidate units around the town. Russian forces seized much of Kharkiv region in the early weeks of the February 2022 invasion, but Ukraine recaptured large swathes of territory later that year. Kharkiv, Ukraine's second largest city, 30 km (18 miles) from the border, stayed out of Russian hands, and months of Russian attacks have eased, Ukrainian officials say, thanks to the arrival of new weaponry. (Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksander Kozhukhar; Editing by Bill Berkrot)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

(Reuters) - A Russian official said on Monday that fighting was gripping parts of Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region which Moscow has been trying to seize and added that Ukraine's military was pouring men and equipment into the contested area.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/russian-official-says-ukraine-pouring-troops-into-contested-kharkiv-region

Mexico's Sheinbaum says polls show support for judicial reform

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Polls commissioned by Mexico's ruling MORENA party show support for a proposed reform of the country's judiciary, including support for the popular election of Supreme Court judges, President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday. "These polls are information, they don't have another objective," Sheinbaum told a press conference. "This is just information to be considered in the discussions that will start in the coming days." She is scheduled to hold talks with senators and lower house lawmakers on Tuesday, and has pledged public forums to discuss the plan more widely. According to three polls commissioned by MORENA, which won a landslide victory in the June 2 general elections, around 80% of people believe it is necessary to reform the judicial system. According to the three polls, some 70% backed the popular election of Supreme Court judges and nearly 90% supported an independent judicial watchdog to probe possible misdeeds or corruption. Around 40% said they believed most judges, magistrates and ministers were corrupt. The polls jointly surveyed some 3,855 people between June 14-16 with margins of error of just under 3%. Sheinbaum, who is set to take over from her mentor and outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador in October, added that she would announce the first nominees to her cabinet on Thursday. Lopez Obrador had proposed the reform prior to June 2 but reiterated calls following the landslide election of Sheinbaum. The peso briefly dipped after Sheinbaum's poll announcement, before stabilizing at around 18.5 pesos to the U.S. dollar. "Investors don't need to worry, this is a survey and after this there will be dialogue and debate," Sheinbaum told reporters at the conference. "The peso is a strong currency and it will continue to be under my mandate." Sheinbaum reiterated pledges to responsibly manage the public debt and budget, as well as conserve the autonomy of the Mexican central bank. (Reporting by Lizbeth Diaz, Raul Cortes, Noe Torres, Ana Isabel Martinez and Sarah Morland in Mexico City; Editing by Kylie Madry and Aurora Ellis)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) -Polls commissioned by Mexico's ruling MORENA party show support for a proposed reform of the country's judiciary, including support for the popular election of Supreme Court judges, President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum said on Monday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/mexico039s-sheinbaum-says-polls-show-support-for-judicial-reform

Estonia's Kallas, fierce Russia critic, tipped as new EU foreign policy chief

VILNIUS (Reuters) - Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas is tipped to become the European Union's next foreign policy boss, but her tough stance on Russia may raise doubts as to whether she can represent views from across the bloc. EU leaders' informal talks on Monday, their first since the European Parliament election, focus on the appointments for the bloc's top jobs, with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen expected to secure a second term and EU diplomats saying Kallas is in line for the foreign affairs role. Kallas, who turns 47 on Tuesday, has made her name as an eloquent critic of neighbouring Russia and its expansionist aims since she became Estonian prime minister in early 2021. An uncompromising voice in the EU and NATO for unconditional support to Kyiv and for containing Moscow, she led her country of 1.4 million people to become among the highest per-capita military donors to Ukraine. Kallas has been wanted in Russia since February for her role in removing Soviet-era monuments in her country. Born in Tallinn, she is the great-granddaughter of the first Estonian chief of police as the newly independent country emerged from the Russian Empire after the First World War only to be absorbed into the Soviet Union in 1940. Kallas' mother was only six months old when her family was forcibly relocated to Siberia in 1949 along with 20,000 other Estonians. "Russia hasn't changed," she said last year on marking an anniversary of her mother's exile. "This evil lives on in Russia." Unassuming and open, Kallas is well regarded abroad, though not all of the bloc's countries share her dogged defiance of Russia. Above all, Hungary's Viktor Orban has maintained friendly ties with Moscow even after its invasion of Ukraine. However, her popularity at home suffered when local media revealed last year that her husband was involved in a business which continued its operations in Russia even as Kallas publicly criticised all who did so. Her government also raised taxes shortly after the 2023 elections and legalised same-sex marriage, which almost half of the country opposes. Kallas is a second-generation politician. Her father was the governor of the newly independent Estonia's central bank, established the liberal Reform Party in 1994, which he led for a decade, and served as Estonia's prime minister and later vice president of the European Commission led by Jose Manuel Barroso. In 2011, Kaja Kallas left a career as a partner at a major Tallinn law firm to run, successfully, for the Estonian and then European parliaments on a Reform Party ticket. After leading the Reform Party from 2018 she became Estonia's first female prime minister in 2021. Kallas, known for her uncompromising drive in pushing through policies, has been accused of arrogance by some of her detractors. Kallas has no doubt her small country's security depends on Brussels. "If Europe is united and strong, Estonia will also be strong," she told the Estonian parliament in 2022. (This story has been refiled to fix typographical errors throughout) (Reporting by Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; editing by Niklas Pollard and Tomasz Janowski)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

VILNIUS (Reuters) - Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas is tipped to become the European Union's next foreign policy boss, but her tough stance on Russia may raise doubts as to whether she can represent views from across the bloc.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/estonia039s-kallas-fierce-russia-critic-tipped-as-new-eu-foreign-policy-chief

Train crash in eastern India kills 15, injures dozens

KOLKATA (Reuters) - A freight train smashed into the rear of a stationary passenger train in India's West Bengal state on Monday, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens, police said, in an accident that railway authorities blamed on driver error. Media showed images of the pile-up, with containers from the goods train strewn nearby, and one carriage left nearly vertical after the accident, which comes just over a year after a signalling error caused one of India's worst rail crashes. Fifteen bodies were pulled from the mangled carriages, Abhishek Roy, a senior police official in the eastern state's district of Darjeeling, the site of the accident, told Reuters. Fifty-four people were injured and rescue teams from the police and national disaster response force were working to clear debris from the derailed carriages, Roy added. The goods train hit the Kanchanjunga Express travelling to Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, from the northeastern state of Tripura, driving three carriages of the passenger train off the rails. It was not immediately clear how many passengers were on board at the time. Rescuers used iron rods and ropes to work free one carriage of the passenger train that had been swept upwards to lodge on the roof of the freight train by the impact of the collision. The dead included the driver of the freight train and a guard on the passenger train, Jaya Varma Sinha, the head of the railway board that runs the countrywide network, told reporters. The accident happened after the driver of the freight train disregarded a signal, Sinha added. Rescue work has been completed, Sinha said, and authorities are working to restore traffic, with the damage less extensive than initially feared. "The guard's compartment in the passenger train was badly damaged," she added. "There were two parcel vans attached ahead of it which reduced the extent of damage to passengers." Nearby residents heard a loud crash and saw the pile-up upon going to investigate, several told the ANI news agency, in which Reuters has a minority stake. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences on the loss of life and said Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw was on his way to the site. About 288 people died a year ago in the neighbouring state of Odisha, in India's worst rail crash in more than two decades, caused by a signal failure. Opposition parties criticised Modi's government for its record on rail safety. "The increase in railway accidents in the last 10 years is a direct result of the mismanagement and negligence of the Modi government, which results in loss of lives and property of passengers on a daily basis," Modi's main opponent and Congress party leader Rahul Gandhi said in a post on X. (Reporting by Subrata Nag Choudhary and Sudipto Ganguly, writing by Shilpa Jamkhandikar; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Mark Potter)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

KOLKATA (Reuters) - A freight train smashed into the rear of a stationary passenger train in India's West Bengal state on Monday, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens, police said, in an accident that railway authorities blamed on driver error.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/train-crash-in-eastern-india-kills-15-injures-dozens

Canada defends sending ship to Cuba as vital to deterring Russia

OTTAWA (Reuters) - The Canadian Liberal government, criticized by opposition legislators for sending a patrol ship to Havana while Russian vessels were there, on Monday said the visit was meant to send a message of deterrence to Moscow. The Canadian navy patrol ship sailed into the harbor early on Friday, two days after the arrival of a Russian nuclear-powered submarine and a frigate. Canada and the United States said they were closely monitoring the vessels. "The deployment ... sends a very clear message that Canada has a capable and deployable military and we will not hesitate to do what is required to protect our national interest," Defence Minister Bill Blair told reporters. "Canadian Armed Forces will continue to track the movements and activities of the Russian ships," he added. "Presence is deterrence. We were present." Both the U.S. and Cuba say the Russian warships pose no threat to the region. Russia has also characterized the arrival of its warships in allied Cuba as routine. Canada has traditionally been one of Cuba's closest Western allies and maintained ties after the 1959 Cuban revolution. Relations though tend to be better under Liberal governments, since the official opposition right-of-center Conservatives are more staunchly anti-Communist. "Why is the Trudeau government sending a Canadian warship to 'celebrate' relations with a communist dictatorship at all - let alone while Russian warships are docked there? Cuba and Russia are not allies of Canada," Conservative foreign affairs spokesman Michael Chong said in a social media post. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid an official visit to Cuba in November 2016. When former leader Fidel Castro died a few days later, Trudeau referred to him as a "remarkable leader", prompting Conservative unhappiness. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Bill Berkrot)

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

OTTAWA (Reuters) - The Canadian Liberal government, criticized by opposition legislators for sending a patrol ship to Havana while Russian vessels were there, on Monday said the visit was meant to send a message of deterrence to Moscow.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/18/canada-defends-sending-ship-to-cuba-as-vital-to-deterring-russia

Serbia's parliament speaker seeks debate over Rio Tinto's lithium project

BELGRADE (Reuters) - Serbia's parliament speaker and former prime minister Ana Brnabic on Monday sought a debate and approval in the assembly for a contested Rio Tinto lithium project in the Balkan country. Regarded as a critical material by the EU and the United States, lithium is used in batteries for EVs and mobile devices. In 2022, the Serbian government revoked licences for Rio's $2.4 billion Jadar lithium project near the western town of Loznica after massive environmental protests. Brnabic, also a ranking official of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) loyal to President Aleksandar Vucic, said the Jadar project requires "responsible and serious" parliamentary debate". "We will defend the interests of Serbia in every way, both economic and in terms of wealth and higher wages, pensions and everything that the project can bring to Serbia," she said in a TV broadcast. Brnabic did not say when the 250-seat Serbian parliament in which the SNS-led coalition has a majority of 183 deputies, could start the debate. Her remarks came a day after Vucic told the Financial Times that Belgrade is preparing to give Rio Tinto the green light to develop Europe's largest lithium mine. If completed, the Jadar project could supply 90% of Europe's current lithium needs and help to make the company a leading lithium producer. Last week Rio published environmental studies which showed that its Serbia lithium project would be safe for the environment. In 2021 and 2022 Serbian environmentalists collected 30,000 signatures in a petition demanding that parliament enact legislation to halt lithium exploration in the country. Radomir Lazovic, a leader of the opposition Green-Left Front, said his party would oppose Rio's project in the parliament and through protests. "We are ready to fight this idea through actions, protests, all legal avenues and by seeking international support," Lazovic told Reuters. (Reporting by Aleksandar Vasovic; Editing by Angus MacSwan)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

BELGRADE (Reuters) - Serbia's parliament speaker and former prime minister Ana Brnabic on Monday sought a debate and approval in the assembly for a contested Rio Tinto lithium project in the Balkan country.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/serbia039s-parliament-speaker-seeks-debate-over-rio-tinto039s-lithium-project

Russia in contact with U.S. over possible swap for WSJ reporter Gershkovich, Kremlin says

MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Monday that contacts had taken place with the United States over a possible prisoner exchange involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich but that they should remain far from the media. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov quoted President Vladimir Putin's remarks earlier this month at a meeting with senior international news agency editors. Putin said then that Russia and the United States were in contact on the issue. "I want to remind you again of the president's conversation with the heads of information agencies in St. Petersburg - he confirmed that there are such contacts," Peskov said. "They go on but should continue to be conducted in complete silence... Therefore, no announcements, statements, or information on this matter can be provided." When asked why the espionage trial of Gershkovich was to be held behind closed doors, Peskov said that he was unable to comment on such matters as it was a decision made by the court. "This is a court decision. We cannot comment on it," Peskov said. Gershkovich, 32, was detained by the Federal Security Service (FSB) on March 29, 2023, in a steak house in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, 1,400 km (900 miles) east of Moscow, on charges of espionage that carry up to 20 years in prison. The first American journalist to be detained on spy charges in Russia since the Cold War more than three decades ago, Gershkovich has repeatedly denied the charges. (Reporting by Dmitry Antonov; editing by Guy Faulconbridge)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Monday that contacts had taken place with the United States over a possible prisoner exchange involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich but that they should remain far from the media.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/russia-in-contact-with-us-over-possible-swap-for-wsj-reporter-gershkovich-kremlin-says

Campaigning takes off in France for snap election in two weeks

PARIS (Reuters) - Campaigning kicked off on Monday for France's snap parliamentary election, which opinion polls suggest the far-right National Rally will win ahead of a left-wing alliance, with President Emmanuel Macron's centrist group trailing in third. Political uncertainty has triggered heavy selling of French bonds and stocks since Macron unexpectedly called the election after Marine Le Pen's National Rally (RN) trounced his ruling centrist party in European Parliament elections. Macron's gamble that he could catch other parties off-guard with just a few weeks to prepare for the vote, may backfire, the latest survey by Ifop for LCI suggested. The poll suggests the eurosceptic, anti-immigration RN will get 33% of votes in the first round on June 30. That is down two points from Ifop's previous poll, but with the share of the conservative Republicans willing to form an electoral alliance with the RN, the total reaches 37%. The alliance of left-wing parties now stands at 28%, up two points, whereas Macron's camp is a distant third at 18%, down one point. The second round will take place on July 7. "We're going into uncharted territory and, in my opinion, we are going to move towards an ungovernable Assembly," 60-year-old voter Maxime Chetrit said. Marie Balta, a retiree from Nimes in southern France, shared this concern but said the election could give parliament more power over what the president and government do. "It's going to be very difficult, to have a tripartite Assembly with two strong blocks and a much smaller middle, but it's perhaps a chance to return to more democracy," she said. STARTING GUN Official campaigning began on Monday after a week in which parties scrambled to field candidates and strike alliances. Macron's allies repeated assertions that a victory for RN, or for the left, could create a financial crisis. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal told RTL radio that a victory for either would be catastrophic for France, its economy and jobs. But Clementine Autain, a leading MP for the hard-left France Insoumise, said the damage has already been done by Macron's successive governments. "They have left us with whole piles of debt without improving the life of the French people. It is outrageous that they should lecture us," she told a meeting of the united left just outside Paris. France's budget deficit came in well above target at 5.5% of economic output in 2023, rising from the year before in contrast to other major euro zone economies. Even the captain of France's national soccer team, Kylian Mbappe, has weighed in, urging young people to "make a difference" at a time when "extremes" were knocking on the door of power. Some far-right politicians said the French player was out of touch with reality. Macron gathered key ministers and aides on Sunday evening to discuss the election, a person who took part said, adding that Macron's party had decided not to field any candidates in about 60 constituencies - out of 577 - where they considered that another mainstream candidate was in a better position to win. But some in Macron's camp expressed doubts publicly about the snap election. "This is the decision of the president, it's his prerogative," Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told France Inter radio on Sunday. "What I observe is that it has created in our country, among the French people everywhere, worries, incomprehension, sometimes anger. That's what I see among our voters." The RN, which has already said it would slash the tax on energy and lower the retirement age, is set to detail its economic programme in the coming days. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank's chief economist Philip Lane said there was no need for the ECB to come to France's rescue by buying bonds because recent market turmoil fuelled by political uncertainty was "not disorderly". (Reporting by Yiming Woo, Ingrid Melander, Elizabeth Pineau, Layli Foroudi, Sudip Kar-Gupta, Manuel Ausloos and Benoit Van Overstraeten; editing by Christina Fincher, Kevin Liffey and Tomasz Janowski)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

PARIS (Reuters) - Campaigning kicked off on Monday for France's snap parliamentary election, which opinion polls suggest the far-right National Rally will win ahead of a left-wing alliance, with President Emmanuel Macron's centrist group trailing in third.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/campaigning-kicks-off-in-france-for-snap-election

Taking aim at UK's Sunak, Nigel Farage pledges border control, tax cuts

MERTHYR TYDFIL, Wales (Reuters) -British Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage pledged on Monday to get migration under control and cut taxes for smaller businesses, using the unveiling of his Reform UK's policy plans to try to poach support from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives. Farage, whose entry into the campaign before a July 4 election dealt a further blow to the Conservatives, who are badly trailing the Labour Party in the polls, said only his right-wing party could offer the kind of robust opposition to a government likely to be led by Labour's Keir Starmer. And while he knew his young party could not win the election this time round, he said the unveiling of his policies was the first step in winning over traditionally Conservative voters to finally overtake the governing party and bring about its demise. It was a bold play by Farage, one of Britain's most recognisable and divisive politicians, who has pressured governments into more aggressive stances on immigration and helped bring about Britain's 2016 vote to leave the European Union. While he might finally succeed in his eighth attempt to become a lawmaker if he wins in Clacton-on-Sea, southeast England, his party is unlikely to take more than a handful of seats. "We are not pretending that we are going to win this general election," Farage said at the launch of a 24-page policy document, which he described as a "contract" with voters for the next five years. "Our aim and our ambition is to establish a bridgehead in parliament and to become a real opposition to a Labour government," he told an audience in Merthyr Tydfil, a venue chosen to highlight what Reform says is Labour misrule in Wales. Farage's unexpected entry into the election race - having initially said he would not run and wanted to concentrate on campaigning for Donald Trump in the United States - has split support among Britain's right-of-centre voters. 'SUMS DO NOT ADD UP' Reform's policies were designed to suck support from Sunak's Conservatives, focusing on immigration, which has divided the governing party. Reform promised to immediately freeze "non-essential" immigration, to leave the European Convention on Human Rights, and push migrants arriving by small boats back to France before they land on British shores. It also proposed an extra payroll tax on companies who employ foreign workers. That tax was one of a raft of measures, including shaving 15 billion pounds ($19.04 billion) off the benefits bill to raise money that would be spent on tax cuts elsewhere, such as increasing the income tax threshold to 20,000 pounds from 12,570, slashing fuel duty by 20 pence per litre and freeing more than 1.2 million small and medium sized businesses from corporation tax. Carl Emmerson, deputy director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, said even with the extremely optimistic assumptions about how much economic growth would increase, "the sums in this manifesto do not add up". Farage dismissed any criticism, saying: "We're unashamedly radical, we want change, this isn't working." But to supporters waiting for Farage to leave a community centre in a deprived part of Merthyr Tydfil, Farage spoke their language - a feeling shared by some voters in Clacton. With the Labour Party around 20 points ahead in opinion polls, Farage said his focus was now on the election after this one, and that his contract was showing his party's direction of travel to win over more voters. In one poll last week, Reform overtook the Conservatives, and Farage has set a target of winning six million votes at the July 4 election. Other polls put Reform far behind the governing party. Since announcing his return, the Reform campaign has made much of Farage and his populist appeal. The 60-year-old received an expensive private education and worked as a commodities trader but has successfully styled himself as a man of the people taking on an out-of-touch political establishment. "We want real, genuine change to give us a better, brighter and stronger future and I promise you all this is step one," he said. "Our real ambition is the 2029 general election." ($1 = 0.7878 pounds) (Writing by William James in London; Editing by Angus MacSwan and Susan Fenton)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

MERTHYR TYDFIL, Wales (Reuters) -British Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage pledged on Monday to get migration under control and cut taxes for smaller businesses, using the unveiling of his Reform UK's policy plans to try to poach support from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/039join-the-revolt039-uk039s-farage-to-lay-out-election-policies

In a Greek jail, inmates find freedom in theatre

KORYDALLOS PRISON, Greece (Reuters) - On a stifling summer evening, the actors took to the stage: a grassy courtyard enclosed by towering prison walls, topped with barbed wire and lit by a floodlight. The performers were inmates at Greece's maximum-security jail, and so was the audience. The play - ancient Greek tragedy 'Antigone', a story about free will, disobedience and authority - spoke to their hearts. For a short hour, they felt free. Dressed in cream-coloured costumes, the men, aged between 24 and 63, had been practicing for this moment for months. "Tomorrow is not a dead-end," they shouted in chorus as they took a bow, hand in hand, in the final act. For two dozen inmates, the theatre workshop at Korydallos prison, a sprawling complex in an impoverished part of Athens, had been a respite from the mundane and often gruelling routine of daily prison life and their crammed, rowdy cells. "You forget you're in prison," said 37-year-old Konstantinos Bougiotis, who played King Creon, the antagonist. "You stop being in this misery, looking only at bars and walls," he said. Every rehearsal was a taste of freedom, said another inmate, 54-year-old Dimitris Kavalos, who never imagined he could stand before his fellow inmates and read lines. "I felt freedom in my soul," Kavalos said. Around 250 inmates have taken part in the prison's workshop since it launched in 2016, and more than 1,800 have watched the shows. One man came back to take part in the performance despite being recently released so as not to disappoint the other inmates. For this year's play, director Aikaterini Papageorgiou said she was looking for something a person in confinement could identify with. In Antigone, the most political of plays written by Greek tragedian Sophocles around 441 BC, the titular character disobeys her uncle, King Creon, to bury her brother, while grappling with life's written and unwritten rules. Even the more sceptical among the inmates were forced to tackle life's big philosophical questions. "In real life too, we put on a show," Bougiotis said. "Life is theatre too." Papageorgiou said directing the group through the toughest period of their life was a huge source of hope. "For those of us who are not in this world, to see this fervour that their minds cannot be imprisoned even though their bodies are is very inspiring," she said. "It's very hopeful for humankind, for its strength... and for redemption." (Writing by Karolina Tagaris; Editing by Peter Graff)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

KORYDALLOS PRISON, Greece (Reuters) - On a stifling summer evening, the actors took to the stage: a grassy courtyard enclosed by towering prison walls, topped with barbed wire and lit by a floodlight.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/in-a-greek-jail-inmates-find-freedom-in-theatre

Russia sets closed espionage trial for US reporter Gershkovich

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's espionage trial of detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who denies charges of collecting secrets for the U.S. CIA, will be held behind closed doors, the trial court said on Monday. Gershkovich, 32, was detained by the Federal Security Service on March 29, 2023, in a steak house in the Urals city of Yekaterinburg, 1,400 km (900 miles) east of Moscow, on charges of espionage that carry up to 20 years in prison. The first American journalist to be detained on spy charges in Russia since the Cold War more than three decades ago, Gershkovich has denied the charges. The Journal says Gershkovich was doing his job and denies he is a spy. The FSB, the main successor to the Soviet-era KGB, said Gershkovich was trying to collect secrets about Uralvagonzavod, a Russian defence enterprise that is one of the world's biggest battle tank producers, for the CIA. "The process will take place behind closed doors," the Sverdlovsk Regional Court in Yekaterinburg said. "According to the investigation authorities, the American journalist of The Wall Street Journal, Gershkovich, on the instructions of the CIA, in March 2023, collected secret information in the Sverdlovsk region about the activities of the defence enterprise JSC NPK Uralvagonzavod for the production and repair of military equipment." The first hearing is scheduled for June 26, the court said. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters the U.S. was concerned that the trial was to be held behind closed doors. "We have a concern about that. We are going to attempt to attend the trial - don't know if that will be possible," he said. The White House has called the charges "ridiculous" and President Joe Biden has said Gershkovich's detention is "totally illegal". Russia said Gershkovich was caught "red-handed". President Vladimir Putin has said there has been contact with Washington about potentially swapping Gershkovich but that such negotiations should be held away from the media. The Journal said Gershkovich was on a reporting assignment when detained and that his fate illustrates the threats journalists face trying to report on the front lines of major global stories. It has demanded his release. "This latest development means a sham trial is imminent. We expect that all parties will work to bring Evan home now. Time is of the essence," the Journal said. "The Russian regime’s smearing of Evan is repugnant and based on calculated and transparent lies. Journalism is not a crime, and Evan’s case is an assault on free press." SWAP FUND? Gershkovich's arrest illustrated how far relations between Russia and the West have deteriorated over the Ukraine war since hopes of friendship were raised after the Cold War ended with the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991. There are now almost no U.S. reporters in Russia. U.S. diplomats say that Gershkovich was not a spy and was detained by Russia's FSB to build up a store of arrested U.S. citizens who could later be swapped for Russians detained in the West. Among the detained Americans is Paul Whelan, an ex-Marine arrested in Moscow in 2018 and sentenced to 16 years in prison on spying charges in 2020. Putin suggested in February that Gershkovich could be swapped for Vadim Krasikov, convicted of the 2019 murder of a Chechen dissident in Berlin, although he did not mention Krasikov by name. Putin said in March he had agreed the idea of potentially swapping Alexei Navalny a few days before the opposition leader died in unexplained circumstances at a Russian prison on Feb. 16. A fluent Russian-speaker born to Soviet émigrés and raised in New Jersey, Gershkovich moved to Moscow in late 2017 to join the English-language Moscow Times, and subsequently worked for the French news agency Agence France-Presse. It was unclear whether Gershkovich, on his reporting trip to the Urals, was planning to report on Uralvagonzavod, based in Nizhny Tagil. The enterprise sits at the heart of the Urals region, where Russia conducts some of its most secret weapons production and research. It is part of Rostec, Russia's vast defence corporation run by Putin ally Sergei Chemezov. (Additional reporting by Humeyra Pamuk in Washington; Editing by Bernadette Baum, Alex Richardson, Timothy Heritage and Alison Williams)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia's espionage trial of detained Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who denies charges of collecting secrets for the U.S. CIA, will be held behind closed doors, the trial court said on Monday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/russian-espionage-trial-of-us-reporter-gershkovich-to-be-closed-to-public

As Thailand moves to pass same-sex marriage law, couple wait to tie the knot

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thai lesbian couple Vorawan "Beaut" Ramwan and Anticha "An" Sangchai are patiently waiting for the passage of their country's same-sex marriage law so that they can cement their relationship after four years together. "Once the law comes into effect, we will sign our marriage license," said Anticha, a university lecturer. "We've been waiting for this for a long time." The marriage equality bill is expected to pass through its final reading in Thailand's upper house of parliament on Tuesday, said Wallop Tangkananuruk, chairman of the senate committee for the bill. It will then be sent to the king for approval and come into force 120 days after being published in the Royal Gazette, making Thailand the third territory in Asia after Taiwan and Nepal to legalise same-sex marriage. The Southeast Asian nation, known for its vibrant cultural scene and tolerance, has long been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. Thousands of LGBTQ+ revellers and activists gathered for a parade through the streets of Bangkok this month, joined by Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who came dressed in a rainbow shirt to celebrate Pride Month. For Anticha and Vorawan, marriage equality represents more than a ceremony. It is a marker that their relationship is recognised and granted the same legal protections as heterosexual couples, they said. "The passage of this law is a (social) movement, pushing the boundaries by acknowledging our existence, " Anticha said. The law also formalises their ability to look after one another legally, said Vorawan. "It would give us a more sense of security for our lives," said the 32-year-old nurse. "It's something that we've never had before." (Additional reporting by Panarat Thepgumpanat; Writing by Chayut Setboonsarng, Edited by Devjyot Ghoshal and Gerry Doyle)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thai lesbian couple Vorawan "Beaut" Ramwan and Anticha "An" Sangchai are patiently waiting for the passage of their country's same-sex marriage law so that they can cement their relationship after four years together.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/as-thailand-moves-to-pass-same-sex-marriage-law-couple-wait-to-tie-the-knot

These AI-enabled recycling robots are helping businesses be more sustainable

Despite good intentions to make changes that support the environment, companies are still sending items to the landfill that could otherwise be recycled. While the world is producing nearly twice as much plastic waste as it did two decades ago, just 9% of it is being properly recycled, according to a report from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development. Glacier, a company that uses AI-enabled robots to help companies better handle the messy and tedious job of sorting through trash, is hoping to change that. The San Francisco-based company, which was founded by Rebecca Hu, a former Bain consultant, and Areeb Malik, a former Meta software engineer, says its robots can sift through 45 items per minute, including more than 30 different materials, to find items that are recyclable and might otherwise be missed by human detectors. “Today, when you go into a facility that’s using a Glacier robot, you’ll see a conveyor belt, which typically exists in these facilities, and then the robot has two parts to it. The first is our AI vision system, and that’s literally a camera that’s taking 24/7 footage of all the items passing underneath it,” Hu says. “And then the robot has these arms that can know where to pick an item, and then it knows what that item is, so it knows where to actually sort it. In doing so, it’s able to automate that sortation process at a very high degree of accuracy.” That’s where Glacier’s computer vision technology and sorting robots really shine. The company’s analytics advise customers on how many and what types of items they’re missing. According to Glacier estimates, one robot can help prevent more than 10 million items per year from ending up in landfills. “We usually recommend that customers start on what’s known as the last-chance line, or the residue line,” Hu says. “In other words, after all of the sorting has happened, there’s usually one conveyor belt, and it’s the very last one in the facility. Everything on that belt is supposed to be trash, and it’s all going to landfill now because the sortation process is so difficult. You can imagine there’s a lot of really good stuff that ends up on that line as well.” While public awareness and action around recycling continues to get better, there’s still plenty of room for improvement. The current recycling rate in the United States is around 32%, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The goal of the agency is to get to at least 50% by the end of the decade. In March, Glacier received a crucial vote of support from Amazon, which invested in the company as part of its Climate Pledge Fund. Glacier also holds the distinction of being the second woman-led climate tech company to receive support from Amazon, which previously committed to investing US$53mil (RM249.78mil) in climate tech ventures led by women. For Hu, being a part of the solution felt personal. “I often say it’s the first time in my life where I felt like an idea was so compelling that I was willing to take this type of early stage startup risk on it,” she says. As a first-generation American and the daughter of Chinese immigrants growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, Hu says her family was always resourceful when it came to finding different ways to reuse materials. “One of the really interesting idiosyncrasies about growing up in that way was at home having this constant mantra of reduce, reuse, recycle, waste nothing. All these yogurt tubs were always getting used as storage containers for something else,” she says. “More broadly speaking, I was getting the sense that I was in a very consumerist society where people just tossing things out, so that was kind of this cognitive dissonance that I always thought about growing up.” With backing from Amazon and attention from companies eager to improve their eco footprints, Hu says Glacier is focused on bringing its technology to more people and building on its AI capabilities. For example, Glacier is working on developing computer vision technology that can identify recycling waste from broader categories, from broad cardboards to more specific items, like cat food cans. “One thing there is no shortage of is items that are coming through these facilities, and so you can imagine if our fleet is taking images constantly, we have access to hundreds of millions of these types of images of recycled items to work off of as our training and validation set,” she says. “Now, the challenge is not collecting those images, but actually figuring out what types of items you should be detecting. We have started collaborating very closely with our recycling facility customers to understand where most of the value sits.” While Hu is proud of the results Glacier robots are already demonstrating, she says humans are still an important part of the process. “I think the jury is still out on whether we will ever have a truly lights out recycling facility” she says. “But I think the trend that we’re already seeing and expect to continue over the next many years is that there’s already a significant labor shortage in this industry. And so if we can get robots to do truly the most dull, dirty, dangerous jobs in these facilities, a lot of the existing labour force is being upskilled and trained to do things like maintenance and repair and monitoring, which I think is a much better use of those precious human resources.” – Fortune.com/The New York Times

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AI

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2024-06-14 00:00:00

AI,Technology,Environment,Recycling

Despite good intentions to make changes that support the environment, companies are still sending items to the landfill that could otherwise be recycled.

https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2024/06/14/these-ai-enabled-recycling-robots-are-helping-businesses-be-more-sustainable

EU leaders to discuss top jobs with line-up seemingly set

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union leaders will debate policy goals for the next five years from defence to the economy, and who to place in top EU jobs, when they convene in Brussels on Monday. The informal meeting will be the first leaders gathering since the European Parliament election, which proved good for the centre-right and right-wing nationalists, but humiliating for French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The leaders are to discuss who should be the next presidents of the European Commission and European Council, and the foreign policy chief, but their minds seem already made up. Germany's Ursula von der Leyen is in prime position to secure a second term as head of the EU executive, buoyed by gains for her centre-right European People's Party. Thirteen of the 27 EU leaders are from parties belonging to the EPP. With French and German support too, she would have the qualified majority she requires to be nominated. France had previously weighed alternatives to von der Leyen, but with a snap parliamentary election called by Macron from June 30, the government now prefers EU stability. Former Portugal Prime Minister António Costa is set to become the next president of the European Council, which would see the socialist chair summits from December. Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, a liberal, is then in line to be nominated high representative for foreign affairs, ensuring a balanced geographical and political spread of jobs across the bloc. The leaders' are due to confirm their choices at an EU summit on June 27-28. Von der Leyen would still then need backing from the European Parliament, which votes in its first session from July 16. The full 27-member Commission, including the foreign policy chief, also needs parliamentary support. EU leaders are also expected to discuss the next five-year legislative cycle, with a stress on common values, defence and economic competitiveness. They are due to confirm their "strategic agenda" guidance at the end-June summit. The leaders should shortly have a report by Mario Draghi, former Italian premier and president of the European Central Bank, on boosting the EU's economic prospects. In a speech on Friday, he said the bloc needed cheaper energy and a capital markets union to steer private savings towards investment. (This story has been corrected to fix the first name of former Portuguese prime minister to 'António', from 'Alberto', in paragraph 7) (Reporting by Philip Blenkinsop; Editing by David Holmes)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union leaders will debate policy goals for the next five years from defence to the economy, and who to place in top EU jobs, when they convene in Brussels on Monday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/eu-leaders-to-discuss-top-jobs-with-line-up-seemingly-set

Two in three Americans believe that social networks encourage overspending

You've probably noticed that when you spend time on social media, it's impossible not to come across an advert for a new dress or gadget. While shopping on social networks has become popular, users are nonetheless wary. In fact, according to one survey, two in three Americans think that social networks promote overspending. Social networks have revolutionised the way we communicate, but they're also changing our shopping habits. While more than four in ten Gen Z consumers and Millennials make a purchase via Pinterest Shopping at least once a month, it would seem that some don't necessarily see social media shopping in a positive light. According to a survey by WalletHub, two in three Americans believe that social networks encourage them to spend more online. From scams to regrets Social networks have become a platform of choice for brands and influencers wishing to promote their products and services. Users are constantly exposed to targeted advertising and sponsored content, which can encourage them to buy products they don't really need. In fact, almost three in four users claim to have made unnecessary purchases on social networks. While some are wary of social media advertising, nearly one in five Americans would describe their social network purchases as "scams”, and 63% regret some of their social media purchases. Despite these concerns, one in two Americans still find shopping on social networks more convenient than traditional shopping websites. However, 36% of those surveyed believe they would spend less if they deleted their social media accounts. Social networks also have an impact on our perception of success and happiness. Influencers and celebrities often share images of their luxurious lifestyles and extensive purchases, which can create a sense of frustration and dissatisfaction among users. Almost two in five Americans try to portray a more positive image of their financial situation on social media than is really the case. According to the same survey, for 36% of people polled, social networks are a source of frustration when it comes to their financial situation. – AFP Relaxnews *This report reflects the results of a nationally representative online survey of over 200 people. After collecting all responses, WalletHub normalised the data by age, gender and income to ensure that the sample reflected US demographics.

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Social media

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Social media,Retail,e-Commerce

While shopping on social networks has become popular, users are nonetheless wary. In fact, according to one survey, two in three Americans think that social networks promote overspending.

https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2024/06/17/two-in-three-americans-believe-that-social-networks-encourage-overspending

US soldier held in Russia pleads not guilty to threat charges, RIA reports

(Reuters) - U.S. serviceman Gordon Black, detained in the Russian city of Vladivostok, has pleaded not guilty to charges of threatening to kill his girlfriend and partially guilty to theft charges, RIA news agency reported on Monday. The state Russian agency, reporting from Black's second court hearing in Vladivostok, in Russia's Far East, said the U.S. soldier, who was stationed in South Korea but detained in Russia on May 2, spoke in court through an interpreter. "No (I don't plead guilty to threatening to kill)," RIA cited Black as saying. "Partially (to the theft), there was no intent." Black was detained on suspicion of stealing from his Russian girlfriend. Citing local prosecutors, Russian independent media reported he had also subsequently been charged with threatening to kill her. RIA reported that Black pleaded guilty to theft charges in May but would enter a plea later and that he was co-operating with the investigators. (Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne. Editing by Gerry Doyle)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

(Reuters) - U.S. serviceman Gordon Black, detained in the Russian city of Vladivostok, has pleaded not guilty to charges of threatening to kill his girlfriend and partially guilty to theft charges, RIA news agency reported on Monday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/us-soldier-held-in-russia-pleads-not-guilty-to-threat-charges-ria-reports

South Korea's loudspeakers face questions over reach into North

SEOUL (Reuters) - The loudspeakers deployed by South Korea to wage psychological warfare against North Korea faced audits and legal battles claiming they are too quiet, raising questions over how far into the reclusive North their propaganda messages can blast. South Korea resumed loudspeaker broadcasts directed at North Korea on June 9 for the first time since a now-defunct inter-Korean agreement banned them in 2018. The current speakers were among 40 systems purchased in 2016 after the two Koreas exchanged artillery fire in a 2015 dispute over the broadcasts. The military says the systems were designed to blare pop music and political messages as far as 10 kilometres (6.21 miles), enough to reach the city of Kaesong and its nearly 200,000 residents. But audits released at the time, seen by Reuters, showed the new speakers did not meet those standards and were not as powerful as the military called for. According to former navy officer Kim Young-su, although the speakers passed two out three initial tests in 2016, the trials took place in the morning or at night, when sound travels furthest. South Korea rarely operates the speakers during those times now, so as not to disturb nearby South Korean residents as much, said Kim, who investigated and raised the issues to government corruption watchdogs and the police. The issues led the Ministry of National Defence to sue the manufacturer, but a court dismissed the case, saying that too many environmental factors can affect the performance. Tests in 2017 showed that messages or songs from the speakers could not be understood further than 7 kilometres, and more often closer to 5 kilometres, according to the audit and Kim, not enough to reach a city such as Kaesong. The ministry told Reuters in a statement that performance may vary depending on conditions such as temperature, humidity, and terrain, but that it did not consider the loudspeakers' performance to be restricted. Kim Sung-min, who defected from the North in 1999 and runs a Seoul radio station that broadcasts news into North Korea, said the mountainous border terrain and North Korea’s own loudspeakers in the area further diminish the reach of South Korea’s psychological warfare. North Korea's broadcasts are less aimed at winning over people in the South and more at "suppressing" the South's broadcasts by overpowering or muddling the message, he said. Still, for North Koreans who hear the South Korean messages or catchy K-pop tunes that are banned in the North, the broadcasts can have a significant psychological impact, Kim Sung-min said. "These broadcasts play a role in instilling a yearning for the outside world, or in making them realize that the textbooks they have been taught from are incorrect," he said. At least two North Korean soldiers from the frontlines defected to the South in 2017 after listening to loudspeaker broadcasts, local media reported, citing South Korean officials. The angry North Korean reaction to the broadcasts also suggests the loudspeakers strike a nerve with the authoritarian country, said Steve Tharp, a retired U.S. Army officer who spent years working along the border. "We know that the North Koreans find them partly effective because they have spent a lot of time getting them turned off," he said. (Reporting by Hyun Young Yi; Additional reporting by Josh Smith; Writing by Josh Smith. Editing by Gerry Doyle)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

SEOUL (Reuters) - The loudspeakers deployed by South Korea to wage psychological warfare against North Korea faced audits and legal battles claiming they are too quiet, raising questions over how far into the reclusive North their propaganda messages can blast.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/south-korea039s-loudspeakers-face-questions-over-reach-into-north

In every palm, a potential boombox

Hang out anywhere there are people – the LRT station, fast food restaurants, the ICU – and it can feel as if there’s no escape from their noise. A football game, the Beyoncé discography, FaceTime conversations about nothing: Thanks to the unfettered use of speakerphones, other people’s business is now yours too, loudly. To be fair, not using headphones may have nothing to do with disrespect. Many smartphones don’t have traditional headphone jacks. Bluetooth headphones can be pricey. Sometimes you just forgot to bring earbuds, and it’s your mom’s birthday. But on Reddit recently, the second most popular answer to the question “What do you secretly judge people for?” was “When they watch TikToks loud in a quiet room without headphones.” Cellphones make it easy to aggravate an entire subway car, but this isn’t a 21st-century issue; ask anyone who remembers boombox-era New York City. But there’s a difference between having a conversation on the phone and having your speaker on. For some people, going sans headphones doesn’t register as a problem. For others, it’s an affront – in some cases, debilitatingly so. According to etiquette expert Myka Meier, the issue is a clash over what constitutes civic pollution. “On our phones, we selfishly have interests that we are able to tap into any second of any day, and we are so used to it that we forget other people are around us,” said Meier, who shares tips on removing tea bags and answering text messages with her 640,000 Instagram followers. “I get embarrassed if I cause somebody to feel uncomfortable or if I take up someone else’s space. A lot of people don’t feel that anymore.” Who’s to blame for this frequently transgressed violation of our shared social contract? The answer comes in three. Explanation No 1: It’s not me, it’s you Christine McBurney, an actor and director, was recently at a cafe in Montreal when a family with children plopped down at a table next to hers. “They have an iPad, and they’re watching a game show – a game show – at full blast,” said McBurney, 58. “Because it was Montreal and I wasn’t afraid of getting shot, I said very nicely to the grandmother – I figured I’m almost her age, she’ll understand – ‘Do you have headphones for the kids?’” Wrong question. “She went ballistic,” McBurney recalled. “She was like, ‘No, you put on headphones.’ I said: ‘This is a public space, all the more reason you should be respectful. People are here to have their own conversations or work quietly.’ She kept mumbling under her breath and saying people have the right to do what they want in public.” If this had been New York, McBurney said, she might not have said anything out of fear that even someone’s granny might respond violently. “Your life isn’t worth a temporary inconvenience,” she said. Jay Van Bavel, a professor of psychology at New York University, calls this a COVID-era “norm erosion” that can change only if there’s sufficient norm enforcement. “People have to be comfortable to say, ‘Please put your headphones on’,” said Van Bavel, the director of NYU’s Social Identity & Morality Lab. But for many people, that’s hard to do. He pointed to one famous demonstration from the 1970s, when social psychologist Stanley Milgram had his students ask New York City subway riders to give them their seat. Most of the students had a lot of trouble doing it. “It seems easy to ask,” Van Bavel said, “but at the moment, you are violating a norm, and it’s hard.” Absent relief at the cafe, McBurney sat and suffered. (She had headphones, but she was writing and didn’t want to listen to music, nor did she feel like being bullied into putting them on.) The incident still nags, she said – an ominous sign “that our boundaries must be deteriorating.” “We can’t solve the jackhammer or noisy neighbors, usually,” she said. “But you can put on a pair of headphones. There are so many social contracts that we all agree to, and this should be one of them.” Explanation No 2 : It’s me, but also you Cris Edwards doesn’t go to the movies anymore. Not because of the price of popcorn, but because of the sound of it. “Eating sounds – gum smacking, dinner scenes with loud eating – it drives me insane,” he said. “Pen clicking, keyboard typing, people talking with wet mouth sounds or smacking lips: Those are triggering for me.” Edwards is the founder of soQuiet, a nonprofit advocacy group for those with misophonia, a sensory disorder in which people experience an unusually strong aversion to everyday sounds. “It overwhelms you, and it’s hard to talk about when you’re in this angry panicked state,” Edwards said. “It overwhelms your nervous system. It’s maddening.” M. Zachary Rosenthal, director of the Center for Misophonia and Emotion Regulation at Duke University, recalled a time when he and a family member who has misophonia were at an airport lounge when “this bro gets a big bowl of pita chips”. “He’s 10 feet away and he’s, like, opening up his mouth to the sky as wide as possible, and crunching as loud as humanly possible; the whole place could hear it,” Rosenthal said. “It’s like he was trying to generate the most abrasive sound.” His relative “had a fight-flight reaction,” so they moved to another part of the lounge. Rosenthal said that almost everyone is bothered by sounds of some kind, but what bothers me may bother you less or not at all. Misophonia, which is on the extreme end of what he calls the “sound sensitivity spectrum”, has no official diagnosis, but there are clinical treatments available. Roughly 5% of Americans have moderate or severe impairment caused by misophonia, he said, but almost everybody has the technological capability to bug others within earshot. “Maybe we’re not more rude than ever,” he said. “We just have new ways of being rude.” But as Edwards noted, one solution costs nothing. “Do people not realise they can put the phone to their ear?” he said. Explanation No 3: It’s something or someone else About three decades ago, Cristina Bicchieri, a professor of philosophy and psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, was on a plane with smokers. “I remember telling my friend, ‘Oh my god, can we tell them to stop, please?’” she said on a video call from Tuscany. “He said: ‘Cristina, we are in America. No’.” Bicchieri, the director of Penn’s Center for Social Norms and Behavioral Dynamics, said that in Italy she felt “a greater sense of kindness” rooted in a strong and enforced social contract that forbids uncivil behavior toward strangers. Contrast that with America, she said, and its more “extreme idea of freedom from constraint”. Money may have something to do with it, too. Most people would never listen to a phone at a Broadway show. “In a theater, you pay for the fruition of something, and somebody would be impinging on that,” Bicchieri said. “That’s well understood. But on the train, you don’t pay for the fruition of quiet time.” In Italy, she added: “The rule is, ‘Wait, you are impinging on my wanting to read quietly.’ People would understand that.” So what to do? Meier said compassionate negotiation might work. “If I’m making something a big deal by embarrassing someone, that person may become instantly embarrassed and offended,” she said. “Maybe they were unaware and they will apologise.” If that doesn’t do the trick, bring your kid. Or a doll. “You could always say, ‘My baby is sleeping’,” Meier added. “‘Do you by chance have headphones?’” – The New York Times

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Smartphones

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Smartphones

A football game, the Beyoncé discography, FaceTime conversations about nothing: Thanks to the unfettered use of speakerphones, other people’s business is now yours too, loudly.

https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2024/06/17/in-every-palm-a-potential-boombox

New Zealand Prime Minister's plane breaks down on way to Japan

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - The New Zealand defence force plane flying New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Japan broke down on Sunday, forcing the Prime Minister to take a commercial flight, his office confirmed on Monday. Luxon is spending four days in Japan, where he is expected to meet with Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and spend time promoting New Zealand business. New Zealand media reported that the Boeing 757 broke down during a refuelling stop in Papua New Guinea, leaving the business delegation and journalists stranded in Port Moresby, while Luxon flew commercial to Japan. The New Zealand Defence Force's two 757s are more than 30 years old and their age has made them increasingly unreliable. New Zealand Defence Minister Judith Collins told radio station Newstalk ZB on Monday that the consistent flight issues were "embarrassing" and that the ministry was looking at flying Luxon and his delegation commercially from now on. New Zealand's defence force is struggling with ageing equipment and retaining sufficient personnel. The government has said it would like to spend more on defence but is also trying to reduce spending as the country faces economic headwinds. (Reporting by Lucy Craymer. Editing by Gerry Doyle)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

WELLINGTON (Reuters) - The New Zealand defence force plane flying New Zealand's Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to Japan broke down on Sunday, forcing the Prime Minister to take a commercial flight, his office confirmed on Monday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/new-zealand-prime-minister039s-plane-breaks-down-on-way-to-japan

Factbox-What is the Muslim Haj pilgrimage?

DUBAI (Reuters) - Here is a look at the haj, one of the largest mass gatherings in the world, which starts in Saudi Arabia on Friday. * The haj is an annual pilgrimage that millions of Muslims make to Mecca with the intention of performing religious rites as taught by the Prophet Mohammad to his followers 14 centuries ago. * The fifth pillar of Islam, the haj is mandatory once in a lifetime for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it and is the most significant manifestation of Islamic faith and unity. * The haj begins in the 12th month of the Islamic year, which is lunar, not solar, meaning the haj and the fasting month of Ramadan can fall at different times of the solar calendar each year. * A quota system for visitors to Mecca was introduced in 1987, agreed by member countries of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, to limit the number allowed by each country to 0.1% of its population. * Stampedes, tent fires and other accidents have caused hundreds of deaths over the past 30 years, forcing the Saudi government to build new infrastructure. In 2011, Saudi Arabia began the biggest expansion yet of the Grand Mosque of Mecca to increase its capacity to 2 million. A new railway will link the holy sites around Mecca. * Eid al-Adha, one of Islam's two main festivals, marks the climax of the annual haj pilgrimage, when Muslims slaughter animals - to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim, or Abraham, to sacrifice his son on God’s command - often distributing meat to the poor. (Reporting by Tala Ramadan and Michael Georgy; Editing by Bernadette Baum)

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

DUBAI (Reuters) - Here is a look at the haj, one of the largest mass gatherings in the world, which starts in Saudi Arabia on Friday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/factbox-what-is-the-muslim-haj-pilgrimage

Explainer-Four Thai court cases that could unleash political crisis

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand faces a critical week of court cases that could trigger a political crisis in Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, with the fate of the prime minister and the main opposition hanging in the balance. Four cases before the courts on Tuesday involve the country's most powerful politicians: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, former prime leader Thaksin Shinawatra, the popular opposition Move Forward party and upper-house lawmakers. For decades, Thailand's politics has been shaped by a struggle between its conservative-royalist establishment, supported by the military, and populist parties such as those backed by Thaksin and the current opposition Move Forward party. "These cases highlight the fragility and complexity of Thailand's political climate," ANZ Research said in a note. "On the economic front, the immediate concerns are the potential for disruptive protests and delays to fiscal policy implementation." HOW IS THE PRIME MINISTER INVOLVED? Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, a political novice who took office last August, has been accused by a group of conservative senators of breaching the constitution when he appointed a former lawyer with a conviction record to his cabinet. Srettha, who denies any wrongdoing, could face dismissal if the Constitutional Court rules against him. If Srettha is removed from office, a new government must be formed and his ruling Pheu Thai party would need to put forward a new candidate for premier to be voted on by parliament. The court will likely announce the next hearing or verdict date on Tuesday. WHAT IS THE CASE AGAINST THAKSIN? Thaksin, the influential former premier who was ousted in a 2006 military coup, is to be formally indicted in a criminal court in Bangkok for allegedly insulting the royalty and other charges linked to a 2015 media interview on Tuesday. The court will then decide whether or not to grant bail to the billionaire politician, who has said he is innocent. "This case has no merit at all," he told reporters earlier this month. Thailand's lese-majeste law, one of the world's toughest, carries a maximum jail sentence of up to 15 years for each perceived royal insult. The 74-year-old returned to Thailand to a rock star's reception last August after 15 years of self-imposed exile. Hours after his arrival, Shinawatra family-backed Pheu Thai and Srettha sailed through a parliamentary vote to pick the prime minister, fuelling speculation that Thaksin had struck a deal with his former enemies in the conservative establishment. Thaksin and the Pheu Thai party have denied this. IS THE OPPOSITION UNDER THREAT? Another case could lead to the dissolution of the progressive Move Forward party, which has 30% of seats in the lower house after winning last year's closely-fought election but was blocked by conservative lawmakers from forming a government. The dissolution of Move Forward's predecessor party, Future Forward, in 2020 over a campaign funding violation was among the factors that triggered massive anti-government street protests. The Constitutional Court is considering an Election Commission complaint that alleges the Move Forward party breached the constitution with an election campaign to reform the country's royal insult law. Move Forward, which denies any wrongdoing, ceased efforts to change the law following a January verdict from the same court that ruled the party's plan to amend the law was a hidden effort to undermine the monarchy. The court is expected to announce the next hearing or verdict date on Tuesday. WHAT ABOUT THE SENATE ELECTION? The Constitutional Court will also deliver a verdict on Tuesday on the ongoing selection of a new 200-member Senate, after accepting a petition questioning whether parts of the complex, three-tier process were lawful. If the process is cancelled or delayed, it would temporarily extend the term of military-appointed lawmakers who have been central in determining government formation, including last year's manoeuvre to block Move Forward from forming a government. The current upper house was hand-picked by the military following a 2014 coup that ousted an elected Pheu Thai government that had been led by Thaksin's sister, who still lives in self-imposed exile. (Reporting by Devjyot Ghoshal and Panu Wongcha-um; Editing by Michael Perry)

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BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand faces a critical week of court cases that could trigger a political crisis in Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, with the fate of the prime minister and the main opposition hanging in the balance.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/explainer-four-thai-court-cases-that-could-unleash-political-crisis

Austrian minister defies coalition ally to back EU nature restoration law

VIENNA (Reuters) - Austria's environment minister, Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, defied her conservative coalition partners on Sunday by pledging to cast Austria's vote in favour of adopting a European nature restoration law, potentially tipping the balance in Brussels. European Union countries' environment ministers will discuss the bloc's flagship policy to restore damaged nature at a meeting in Luxembourg on Monday and potentially hold a final vote on whether to enact it. The law would be among the EU's biggest environmental policies, requiring member states to introduce measures restoring nature on a fifth of their land and sea by 2030. "The time for decisiveness has come. I will vote in favour of the EU Nature Restoration Law on Monday," she told a news conference called at short notice. EU countries had planned to approve the policy in March but called off the vote after Hungary unexpectedly withdrew its support, wiping out the slim majority in favour. Austria's change of position would give the policy enough support to become law if no other countries switch. Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, Finland and Poland have previously said they will not support the policy but without Austria they would be one country short of being able to block it. "This law is on a knife-edge. A majority at the European level is in no way certain," Gewessler said, adding that some countries were hesitating to support it. Gewessler's announcement angered Chancellor Karl Nehammer's conservative People's Party (OVP), which opposes the law. It controls the Agriculture Ministry and says that since that ministry is partly responsible for this issue, Gewessler needs its backing. The OVP minister for EU and constitutional affairs, Karoline Edtstadler, said that if Gewessler voted in favour without the Agriculture Ministry's approval it would be unconstitutional. "That must and will have legal consequences," Edtstadler said on X. (Reporting by Francois Murphy; Additional reporting by Kate Abnett in Brussels; Editing by Peter Graff)

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VIENNA (Reuters) - Austria's environment minister, Leonore Gewessler of the Greens, defied her conservative coalition partners on Sunday by pledging to cast Austria's vote in favour of adopting a European nature restoration law, potentially tipping the balance in Brussels.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/austrian-minister-defies-coalition-ally-to-back-eu-nature-restoration-law

Former South African leader Zuma's party says it will join opposition in parliament

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -South Africa's uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party will join an alliance of smaller opposition parties in parliament in a bid to take on the African National Congress and Democratic Alliance-led coalition government, it said on Sunday. The ANC and its largest rival, the white-led, pro-business Democratic Alliance, agreed on Friday to work together in a coalition it called "government of national unity", a step change after 30 years of ANC rule. Former president Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto we Sizwe party came in a surprisingly strong third in the May 29 election which saw the ANC lose its majority. MK won 14.6% of the vote which translated into 58 seats in the 400-seat National Assembly. However, MK lawmakers boycotted the first sitting of the National Assembly on Friday after filing a complaint at the country's top court alleging vote-rigging, which the court dismissed as without merit. Reading a statement on behalf of Zuma, spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela told reporters that the MK party will join the alliance called the "Progressive Caucus", which includes the Marxist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the centre-left United Democratic Movement. This alliance commands close to 30% of the seats in the National Assembly, Ndhlela said, sitting next to Zuma - who had a cough but answered questions after the statement - and the leaders of a number of small parties. "This united effort is necessary because the 2024 election has also resulted in the consolidation of right-wing and reactionary forces who are opposed to economic freedom, radical economic transformation, racial equality and land repossession," he said. Ndhlela said that MK had decided to take up its seats in the National Assembly after receiving legal advice and that it would continue to raise its allegations of a rigged election in parliament and in courts. The Independent Electoral Commission has said the election was free and fair. Zuma also slammed the unity government - which includes two smaller parties, the socially conservative Inkatha Freedom Party and the right-wing Patriotic Alliance - calling it "meaningless" and a "white-led unholy alliance". (Reporting by Nellie Peyton;Writing by Nqobile Dludla; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

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JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) -South Africa's uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party will join an alliance of smaller opposition parties in parliament in a bid to take on the African National Congress and Democratic Alliance-led coalition government, it said on Sunday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/ex-leader-zuma039s-party-says-it-will-join-opposition-in-south-africa039s-parliament

Cambodia records over 2.5 mln air passengers in first 5 months: minister

PHNOM PENH, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia reported more than 2.5 million air travelers during the first five months of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 22 percent, Mao Havannall, minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said on Sunday. Thirty-one international and domestic airlines have operated flights to the kingdom's three international airports, he said. Havannall added that currently, Cambodia has direct flights with eight ASEAN member countries, as well as China, South Korea, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, among others. "Overall, we can assume that the aviation industry in Cambodia has gradually recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic," he said in a speech during the launching ceremony of the first Phnom Penh-New Delhi direct flight held at the Phnom Penh International Airport. Officials hope that the Chinese-invested Siem Reap Angkor International Airport (SAI), which was put into official use in November 2023, will help attract more international airlines and travelers to Cambodia.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Cambodia,air,travel

PHNOM PENH, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia reported more than 2.5 million air travelers during the first five months of 2024, a year-on-year increase of 22 percent, Mao Havannall, minister in charge of the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, said on Sunday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/17/cambodia-records-over-25-mln-air-passengers-in-first-5-months-minister

Fourteen Jordanians die during haj in Saudi Arabia, some succumb to heat

(Removes extraneous 'of' from second paragraph.) CAIRO (Reuters) -Fourteen Jordanians have been reported dead during the annual Muslim haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, some of them due to heat stroke, while 17 others were reported missing, the Jordanian foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday. At least six of the fatalities were heat related, the ministry said on Saturday, with temperatures predicted to reach 47 degrees Celsius (116 Fahrenheit) in Mecca on Monday. It didn't specify on Sunday whether the higher death toll was also due to the heat. The haj, which will end on Wednesday, is one of the largest mass gatherings in the world, with more than 1.8 million pilgrims expected to take part this year, according to the Saudi General Authority for Statistics. Stampedes, tent fires, heat and other factors have caused hundreds of deaths at the event over the past 30 years. The Saudi health ministry issued an advisory on Thursday warning of soaring temperatures and advising pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during the hottest hours of the day between 11 a.m. (0800 GMT) and 3 p.m. The Jordanian foreign ministry was coordinating with Saudi authorities on procedures to bury or transport the bodies of the deceased according to their family's wishes, it said on Sunday. In 2015, a deadly crush at the haj near Mecca killed at least 2,070 people, according to a Reuters tally at the time. (Reporting by Jaidaa Taha and Pesha MagidEditing by Bernadette Baum)

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(Removes extraneous 'of' from second paragraph.)

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/fourteen-jordanians-die-during-haj-in-saudi-arabia-some-succumb-to-heat

Hamburg police shoot hammer-wielding man ahead of Euro 2024 match

FRANKFURT (Reuters) -German police shot at a man who threatened officers with a sledgehammer and an incendiary device on the sidelines of a Euro 2024 soccer fan parade in central Hamburg on Sunday, police said. The attacker was injured in the leg and was receiving medical care but his condition is not life-threatening, a police spokesperson said. "He apparently tried to set fire to this Molotov cocktail and then approached several people including police officers, and the police officers then had to make use of their firearms," said Hamburg police spokesperson Sandra Levgruen. The man is a 39-year-old German, and may have been acting in a state of mental agitation as he emerged from a snack bar brandishing the weapons, police said in a press release. The police investigation is ongoing. There was no evidence that the man had any connection to the football tournament, Levgruen said, while the motive for his attack was not clear. "We assume that this is an isolated case, that is, disconnected from football... I don't see any threat at all or any impact on the game today," Levgruen said. The incident occurred in the St Pauli district of the city ahead of Poland and the Netherlands' afternoon match at Hamburg's Volksparkstadion, which began on schedule. Fan marches have been planned ahead of Euro 2024 games, and the parade for Dutch supporters was drawing to a close around the time of the incident. Fans were directed away from the area by police towards the stadium. Germany is hosting the month-long tournament that began on Friday night. (Reporting by Emma-Victoria Farr and Klaus Lauer, editing by Kirsten Donovan, Hugh Lawson and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

FRANKFURT (Reuters) -German police shot at a man who threatened officers with a sledgehammer and an incendiary device on the sidelines of a Euro 2024 soccer fan parade in central Hamburg on Sunday, police said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/german-police-fire-shots-at-axe-wielding-person-at-hamburg-soccer-fan-parade

Swiss right-wing leader calls Ukraine summit an 'embarrassment'

BUERGENSTOCK (Reuters) - A leading Swiss right-wing nationalist panned a summit his country was hosting in a bid to pressure Russia to end its war on Ukraine as an "embarrassment", reflecting the view that the talks are damaging for Switzerland's traditional neutrality. The right-wing Swiss Peoples' Party (SVP), the biggest group in the lower house of parliament, says neutrality is an integral part of Switzerland's prosperity, and it has initiated a referendum to embed the principle in the constitution. Leading figures in the party have argued Switzerland should not have hosted this weekend's summit without Russia, and Nils Fiechter, chief of the SVP's youth wing, delivered a damning verdict on the talks to Russian broadcaster RT. "The conference will achieve nothing," Fiechter told RT on the eve of the talks, in comments picked up by Swiss media on Sunday. "The whole thing is an absolute farce and an embarrassment for our country." The summit being held at the Buergenstock luxury resort has sparked heated debate over whether Switzerland should abandon its neutrality, a position deeply rooted in the Swiss psyche. Western powers and other nations at the conference were on Sunday seeking consensus on condemning Russia's invasion and underscoring the war's human cost. Fiechter said the Swiss government had "blindly" bowed to international pressure by not inviting Russia. "Switzerland is ... allowing Ukraine to dictate who may or may not be invited to this conference and it is allowing it to turn into a Zelenskiy show," he told RT. "Now we are in danger, and it's a great danger, of Switzerland allowing itself to be drawn into a world war." Switzerland agreed to host the conference at the behest of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Bern says Russia must be involved in the process but justified not inviting it on the grounds that Moscow had repeatedly said it had no interest in taking part. The Kremlin has described Switzerland as "openly hostile" and unfit to mediate in peace-building efforts, in particular because of its adoption of EU sanctions against Moscow. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, two of Europe's other historically neutral states, Sweden and Finland, have both joined NATO. (Reporting by Sabine Siebold; Editing by Dave Graham and Hugh Lawson)

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BUERGENSTOCK (Reuters) - A leading Swiss right-wing nationalist panned a summit his country was hosting in a bid to pressure Russia to end its war on Ukraine as an "embarrassment", reflecting the view that the talks are damaging for Switzerland's traditional neutrality.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/swiss-right-wing-leader-calls-ukraine-summit-an-039embarrassment039

Ukraine says peace summit communique takes Kyiv's positions into consideration

KYIV (Reuters) - Kyiv's positions have been taken into consideration in the final communique for a summit of world leaders convened to pursue peace in Ukraine's war with Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Sunday. More than 90 countries took part in the two-day event at the Buergenstock resort in central Switzerland aimed at uniting global opinion on how to end Moscow's 27-month-old invasion. "The text is balanced, all of our principled positions on which Ukraine had insisted have been considered," he told reporters. The final communique from the summit has yet to be officially released. Kuleba also hinted that Russia could be involved in a future summit but dismissed Russian President Vladimir Putin's demand on Friday that Kyiv cede four regions of Ukraine that Russia has occupied and drop its goal of joining NATO. "Of course we...understand perfectly that a time will come when it will be necessary to talk to Russia," he said. "But our position is very clear: We will not allow Russia to speak in the language of ultimatums like it is speaking now." Kuleba added that no alternative peace plans had been discussed at the summit. (Reporting by Dan Peleschuk; Editing by Tomasz Janowski and Hugh Lawson)

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KYIV (Reuters) - Kyiv's positions have been taken into consideration in the final communique for a summit of world leaders convened to pursue peace in Ukraine's war with Russia, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Sunday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/ukraine-says-peace-summit-communique-takes-kyiv039s-positions-into-consideration

Former French President Sarkozy flags chaos risk as election looms

PARIS (Reuters) - Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy warned on Sunday that President Emmanuel Macron's unexpected decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call for snap legislative elections could backfire and plunge the country into chaos. Macron called the snap vote, to be held in two rounds on June 30 and July 7, after his centrist alliance was trounced by the far-right National Rally (RN) in last Sunday's European Parliament ballot. Sarkozy, the conservative former president who was in office from 2007 to 2012 and remains an important political figure, said possible chaos triggered by the dissolution of the assembly might be challenging to get out of, according to a report in the Journal du Dimanche. "Giving the floor to the French people to justify the dissolution is a curious argument since this is precisely what more than 25 million French people have just done at the polls", Sarkozy, who is on friendly terms with Macron, said in reference to the European elections on June 9. "The risk is great they confirm their anger rather than reverse it," he said. A poll on Saturday appeared to support his concerns. The OpinionWay-Vae Solis poll conducted for Les Echos and Radio Classique forecast RN would lead in the first round of the parliamentary election with 33% of the vote, ahead of the Popular Front, the alliance of left-wing parties, with 25%. Macron's centrist camp had 20%. Thousands marched in Paris and cities across France on Saturday to protest against the far-right National Rally (RN) ahead of the upcoming elections. (Reporting by Dominique Vidalon; Editing by Bernadette Baum)

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PARIS (Reuters) - Former French President Nicolas Sarkozy warned on Sunday that President Emmanuel Macron's unexpected decision to dissolve the National Assembly and call for snap legislative elections could backfire and plunge the country into chaos.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/former-french-president-sarkozy-flags-chaos-risk-as-election-looms

Russian forces kill Islamic State-linked hostage takers at detention centre

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian special forces freed two prison guards and shot dead six inmates linked to the Islamic State militant group who had taken them hostage at a detention centre in the southern city of Rostov on Sunday, Russian media said. State media said that some of the men had been convicted of terrorism offences and were accused of affiliation with the Islamic State militant group, which claimed responsibility for a deadly attack on a Moscow concert hall in March. The six hostage takers, one of whom wore a headband with the flag used by the Islamic State that bears an Arabic inscription, knocked out window bars and climbed down several floors by rope before taking the guards hostage with a knife and fire axe. In video published by the 112 Telegram channel, one was shown brandishing a knife beside one of the bound guards in Rostov-on-Don. In negotiations with the authorities, they demanded free passage out of the prison. But Russian special forces decided to storm the prison. Intense automatic gunfire could be heard in footage published on Russian Telegram channels. Video published by the 112 Telegram channel showed the six dead men in pools of blood. "The criminals were eliminated," Russia's Federal Penitentiary Service said in a statement, which said a "special operation" had taken place to free the hostages. "The employees who were being held hostage were released. They are uninjured," the prison service said. Ambulances were seen entering the complex. Islamic State, a Sunni Muslim militant group, was defeated in Iraq and Syria by a combination of U.S.-led forces, Kurdish fighters, and Russian, Iranian, Syrian soldiers. It splintered into different regional groups that have claimed a number of deadly attacks across the world. Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K), named after an old term for the region that included parts of Iran, Turkmenistan and Afghanistan, claimed responsibility for the March attack on the Crocus City Hall outside Moscow in which 145 people died. According to Russian media, the hostage takers were from Russia's southern republic of Ingushetia and three of them had been detained in 2022 for planning an attack on a court in another Russian republic, Karachay-Cherkessia. (Reporting by Guy Faulconbridge in MoscowEditing by Frances Kerry)

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MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian special forces freed two prison guards and shot dead six inmates linked to the Islamic State militant group who had taken them hostage at a detention centre in the southern city of Rostov on Sunday, Russian media said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/prisoners-with-isis-links-take-guards-hostage-in-russian-detention-centre-media-report

Singapore intensifies oil spill clean up after it spreads along coast

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - An oil spill off southern Singapore has spread to other areas of the island's coast and is threatening a marine reserve, government agencies said, adding that authorities were intensifying efforts to mop up the fuel. The oil spilled into Singaporean waters after a Netherlands-flagged dredger struck a stationary Singapore-flagged bunker vessel on Friday afternoon in the southern port of Pasir Panjang. Authorities had said the vessel was no longer leaking oil, but added in a statement late on Saturday that "due to the tidal current, the treated oil has landed along shorelines including Sentosa, Labrador Nature Reserve, Southern Islands, Marina South Pier, and East Coast Park". An oil sheen was also seen in the waters surrounding Sister's Islands Marine Park, a 400,000 square meter marine protected area, the statement added. Singapore is a global shipping and fuel bunkering hub. The environmental impact of the oil spill remains unclear, but local newspaper The Straits Times reported that fishermen were on alert for a spike in the number of fish deaths over the next few days. (Reporting by Xinghui Kok; editing by Miral Fahmy)

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SINGAPORE (Reuters) - An oil spill off southern Singapore has spread to other areas of the island's coast and is threatening a marine reserve, government agencies said, adding that authorities were intensifying efforts to mop up the fuel.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/singapore-intensifies-oil-spill-clean-up-after-it-spreads-along-coast

Ukraine summit strives for broad consensus to lean on Russia to end war

BUERGENSTOCK, Switzerland (Reuters) - Western powers and countries from the rest of the world will use the second day of a major summit in Switzerland on Sunday to pursue a consensus on condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraineand underscoring concerns about the war's human cost. A draft of the final summit declaration seen by Reuters refers to Russia's invasion as a "war" - a label Moscow rejects - and calls for Ukraine's control over the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant and its Azov Sea ports to be restored. Moscow casts what it calls its special military operation in Ukraine as part of a broader struggle with the West, which it says wants to bring Russia to its knees. Kyiv and the West say Russia is waging an illegal war of conquest. World leaders including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron gathered this weekend at a mountaintop resort in a bid to bolster international support for ending the war. Many Western leaders voiced forceful condemnation of the invasion, invoking the U.N. Charter in defense of Ukrainian territorial integrity, and rejecting Russian President Vladimir Putin's demands for parts of Ukraine as a condition for peace. "One thing is clear in this conflict: there is an aggressor, which is Putin, and there is a victim, which is the Ukrainian people," Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said. Some leaders are expected to depart early, and talks on Sunday will turn towards pursuing a joint position on the need for nuclear and food security, and the return of prisoners of war and children removed from Ukraine during the conflict. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters Qatar had helped to mediate the return from Russia of 30 or more Ukrainian children to their families. "It's going to take international pressure. It's going to take a spotlight from the international community – and not just from the voices from the United States or Europe – but from unusual voices, as well, to say what Russia has done here is morally reprehensible and must be reversed," he said. Kyiv says about 20,000 children have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied territory without the consent of family or guardians since the war began. Moscow rejects this, saying it has protected vulnerable children from the war zone. The draft communique, dated June 13, calls for all illegally deported children to be returned. FOLLOW-UP Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy hailed the participation of more than 90 countries at the Buergenstock resort overlooking Lake Lucerne as a show of international support for Kyiv, even as some European allies said a broader outreach was needed to build a lasting peace plan. One central ambition of the Swiss and Ukrainian organisers is to announce on Sunday the host country for a follow-up conference meant to build on the Swiss momentum. Saudi Arabia is one of the favourites, and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said the kingdom was ready to assist the peace process, but warned that a viable settlement would hinge on "difficult compromise." Striking a balance in the summit's final declaration between forthright condemnation of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and wording that commands the broadest possible support has been part of the diplomatic tug-of-war at the event, sources say. It remains to be seen how many countries will back a final joint declaration, and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer on Saturday sought to temper hopes somewhat. "Just to manage expectations, please: the crucial take-away is that we've all come here, that we're talking, that many different nations and continents are talking to each other ... This is the essence of this conference," he said. "Peace and peace processes take time, working millimetre by millimetre." (Reporting by Steve Holland, Thomas Escritt, Sabine Siebold, Dave Graham; Editing by Matthias Williams and Mark Potter)

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BUERGENSTOCK, Switzerland (Reuters) - Western powers and countries from the rest of the world will use the second day of a major summit in Switzerland on Sunday to pursue a consensus on condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraineand underscoring concerns about the war's human cost.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/world/2024/06/16/ukraine-summit-strives-for-broad-consensus-to-lean-on-russia-to-end-war

Noam Chomsky discharged from hospital in Brazil after false death reports

Noam Chomsky's wife, Valeria Wasserman Chomsky, says reports on Tuesday that the famed linguist and activist had died are untrue. "No, it is false,” she wrote on Tuesday in response to an emailed query from The Associated Press. Noam Chomsky, 95, had been hospitalised in Brazil while recovering from a stroke suffered a year ago, Valeria Chomsky told the AP last week. But the Beneficencia Portuguesa hospital in Sao Paulo said in a statement that Chomsky was discharged on Tuesday to continue his treatment at home. Earlier Tuesday, Chomsky was trending on X as false reports of his death abounded. Jacobin and The New Statesman published obituaries for Chomsky, though the former changed its headline from "We Remember Noam Chomsky” to "Let's Celebrate Noam Chomsky.” The New Statesman took its essay by former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis down altogether. Brazilian news site Diario do Centro do Mundo also took down its story announcing Chomsky’s death and issued a correction. The Chomskys have had a residence in Brazil since 2015. Noam Chomsky, known to millions for his criticisms of US foreign policy, taught for decades at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In 2017, he joined the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences at the University of Arizona in Tucson. - AP

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American intellectual, linguist and dissident Noam Chomsky was discharged from a hospital in Sao Paolo on Tuesday

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/19/noam-chomsky039s-wife-says-reports-of-famed-linguist039s-death-are-false

Actor Huang Xiaoming puts on 15kg for new movie, where he plays intellectually disabled man

Is that Chinese actor Huang Xiaoming? That was the question on many netizens’ minds after photos from the actor’s new movie Mostly Sunny, in which Huang appears noticeably heavier, were released on Chinese social media on June 16 and went viral. Huang appears to have shed his idol image and is gunning for awards glory with his latest role. The 46-year-old plays an intellectually disabled man in the film helmed by Chinese director Wei Shujun. It also stars Taiwanese actress Lu Hsiao-fen, Chinese actor Zu Feng and Chinese actress Yang Caiyu, with Chinese director Jia Zhangke making a special appearance. Mostly Sunny premiered at the ongoing Shanghai International Film Festival in the Main Competition section of the Golden Goblet Award. It has been praised by critics, with some describing it as the Chinese version of the 1994 Hollywood comedy-drama Forrest Gump, starring Tom Hanks. At a press conference on June 16, Huang – the first person to win Best Actor twice at China’s Golden Rooster Awards, for American Dreams In China (2013) and The Bravest (2019) – said he had gained 15kg and a bigger tummy for his latest role. He also stayed at a charity organisation in Hangzhou for one month to learn more about people with special needs. However, he added that he went on a diet soon after filming wrapped. He sometimes ate only one sugar-free biscuit for breakfast, as he joked that he could gain weight just by drinking too much water. Huang – who has a seven-year-old son with his former wife, Hong Kong actress Angelababy – said: “I never hesitated taking up the role and even looked forward to it.” – The Straits Times/Asia News Network

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Huang appears to have shed his idol image and is gunning for awards glory with his latest role.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/19/actor-huang-xiaoming-puts-on-15kg-for-new-movie-where-he-plays-intellectually-disabled-man

Taiwanese actor Wang Po-chieh arrested for drink-driving, crashing into tour bus

Taiwanese actor Wang Po-chieh’s acting career and image have taken a further hit after he was arrested for drink-driving on June 18. The 34-year-old was involved in a traffic collision on the afternoon of June 18 when his car collided with a tour bus. The car belongs to Wang’s girlfriend, actress Nikki Hsieh, and he was taking his dog to a pet grooming shop. No one was injured in the accident. Police who arrived at the scene found Wang reeking of alcohol and conducted a breathalyser test on the spot, Taiwanese media reported. His blood alcohol content was 0.44 mg/l, almost three times the legal limit of 0.15 mg/l in Taiwan. Wang was arrested by the police and released on bail of NT$50,000 (RM7,280) early on June 19 after 10 hours of questioning. The actor has issued a public apology. He admitted going drinking after watching a basketball match in Xinzhuang district in New Taipei City with Hsieh on June 17 night, and said they returned home after midnight. “I woke up the next morning in a good state of mind,” Wang said. “I drove later as I didn’t know the alcohol content would remain in my body after more than 10 hours and the test result would be so high.” Wang said he did not know that he was suspected of drink-driving and had even blown hard into the device during the breathalyser test. “Actually, I hate drink-driving too and took a ride to watch the basketball match in Xinzhuang,” he said. “I really didn’t expect this outcome.” Wang said he was not making excuses for his behaviour and that he would accept any penalties coming his way. Fans have flocked to his social media accounts to criticise him, with some even calling for him to quit the entertainment industry. Wang said he had not thought about quitting as he was still in shock over the incident, adding that he would not be drinking in the short term. The backlash to Wang’s alleged drink-driving has been swift. He was due to attend a jewellery event on June 19 as a guest, but was dropped by the brand and replaced by Taiwanese actor Kent Tsai. Wang won Best Actor for his role as a thoracic surgeon in the medical drama Eye Of The Storm at Taipei Film Festival in July 2023. He was also nominated for Best Leading Actor for the role at the Golden Horse Festival in November 2023. He was due to be a presenter at Taipei Film Festival’s prize presentation ceremony on July 6, but the gig has since been cancelled. The actor’s recent TV credits include Light The Night (2021 to 2022) and Women In Taipei (2022). He was questioned by the police in March after getting involved in a fight at a KTV lounge with his Light The Night co-star Hsiu Chieh-kai. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network

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The 34-year-old was arrested by the police and released on bail of NT$50,000 (RM7,280) early on June 19 after 10 hours of questioning.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/19/taiwanese-actor-wang-po-chieh-arrested-for-drink-driving-crashing-into-tour-bus

Learn how to make samurai katana blades in this Japanese forge

Situated in a nondescript yet picturesque spot in Kyotongo City in Japan’s coastal region of Tango, is a forge or smithy that makes traditional katana by hand. These are the kinds of swords that were carried by the samurai back in the day. The Nihon Genshosha forge is the collaborative venture of Tomoki Kuromoto, Tomoyuki Miyagi, and Kosuke Yamazoe – three friends who met in Tokyo some years ago, as apprentices of Yoshindo Yoshiwara, a renowned master sword maker. To become a swordsmith in Japan, one needs to complete a training course offered by the government’s Agency For Cultural Affairs, and undergo an apprenticeship for at least four years with a licensed swordsmith. Although the trio didn’t envision “swordsmithing” as their vocation when they first started their training, they confess to truly falling in love with the ancient craft during their apprenticeship with Yoshindo. Of course, they were also inspired by the samurai movies and period dramas they watched in their childhood which, they said, made them curious to learn more about the history and meaning behind the weapon. Their goal is to breathe new life into the ancient art of katana-making and celebrate its heritage. The workshop looks like a barn, complete with a large, heavy sliding door that is almost always shut. As soon as we arrived at the place, our group of curious visitors was directed to a small hill that would then lead us to the Nihon Genshosha. We were greeted by Yamazoe at the top of the hill (okay, it was really more like a steep slope), who then led us into the workshop. Tamahagane, which means 'precious steel' in Japanese and is prized for its strength, sharpness and beauty. As he slid open the doors of the warehouse, we felt like we were entering a sort of sacred space: It was almost pitch dark, except for the fire from the furnace (and some dim lighting dotting the high ceilings), and very quiet. In pride of place was the furnace with the roaring pine charcoal fire spitting some serious heat. Kuromoto and Miyagi were hard at work pounding a piece of steel, while Yamazoe explained their work to us. The two men, he said, were executing a process called “tanren”, one of about 15 steps involved in the making of a katana blade. Tanren, or forge folding, involves heating a special type of steel called tamahagane, and repeatedly pounding it with large hammers (weighing about 7kg each), to remove impurities from the steel, thus making it stronger, Yamazoe explained in Japanese. Thankfully, we had an interpreter along with us. Leading the work for the day was Kuromoto: As the “yokoza” (person managing the flame), he was the head of the day’s production. In the tanren stage, his job was to heat the tamahagane until it is red hot – about 1,300°C –before taking it out of the flame (using a super long pair of pliers) for Miyagi and Yamazoe to swing their hammers and pound repeatedly. Sparks flew with each resounding clang of the hammer. The pounding continues until the steel reaches its optimal strength, which can sometimes go on for days. The sword-making process is indeed a laborious one. Once the tanren is done, another process takes over where the hard steel is wrapped with a softer one to protect the integrity of the blade. This is followed by “hizukuri”, which involves shaping the sword with a single hammer, and “yaki-ire”, a process that further enhances sharpness by heating the blade to 800°C before quenching it in cold water. “It is a very long process. Making one sword can take months which is why we only produce a limited number of swords a year,” Yamazoe said. The samurai sword is beautifully curved and extremely sharp, with a single-edged blade that is made with the same techniques used centuries ago. The blade is curved for a rather practical reason. According to a website called Kyoto By The Sea, the Japanese curved sword was born during the Heian period (794-1185). Until then, swords made in Japan were straight, most likely inspired by those made and imported from the Eurasian continent. But as fighting styles changed, Japanese swords became curved to make it easier to access while one is riding horseback. ‘Making one sword can take a few months which is why we only produce a limited number of swords a year,’ explains Yamazoe. — Photos: S. INDRAMALAR Later, improvements were made to swords in accordance with the time periods. For example, during the period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties when the idea of meritocracy prevailed, Japanese swords were made long and grandiose in order to show off one’s skills. Then came the early modern age of the Muromachi period (1336-1573), when society became stable, and elegant shapes were preferred. Although sword forging is one of Japan’s world-class traditional crafts, its value is not well understood and the demand is shrinking. As a result, the number of swordsmiths who pass on the tradition to the next generation is also decreasing. We were each given a turn at hammering the red-hot tamahagane that day. It took a lot of effort to lift the wooden hammer even a little bit, but the encouraging cheers of the three artisans made it impossible for us to give up. Actually, it was quite a fun and fulfilling experience: nothing quite like hammering something to get rid of any pent up anger or frustration, after all. The three smiths met while they were apprentices in Tokyo and formed a bond. Sharing heritage It is not uncommon for tourists to find their way to the workshop for a tour. After all, it is one of the most authentic Japanese experiences that you can find today. This is especially intriguing for travellers who prefer an off-the-beaten-track adventure, opting for trunk roads instead of the highways. The Tango province is located north of Kyoto and is slightly mountainous, with scenic views of the coast and the Japanese countryside. It’s really quite an idyllic spot for creative ventures of artisans. It fact, it was one of the reasons the three metropolitan boys (who hail from Osaka and Tokyo) decided to build their business in Tango. The land on which they built their warehouse was formerly the home of Yamazoe’s grandparents. The trio set up shop there for many reasons, but a main one was because of the area’s ancient iron-making history. Apparently, a sword from the Kofun period was excavated in town of Kumihama, which is part of the city of Kyotango. Meanwhile, in the nearby town of Yasaka there are said to be archaeological remains of an ancient iron manufacturing complex. Apart from the workshop, there is also a showroom where visitors can view some of the swords the young men have produced, as well as other products they have crafted out of the tamahagane. Travel notes Getting there: From Kuala Lumpur, fly to the Kansai International Airport, the nearest airport to Kyoto. Take a bus or train to the Kyoto Station. From there, take the limited express train to Amanohashidate Station (about two hours), then change to the Kyoto Tango Railway for Mineyama Station (25 minutes). Finally, take a taxi to Nippon Genshosha (20 minutes). Alternatively, get a local travel agency to make all the necessary ground transport arrangements for you. What to see and do: Check out the San’in Kaigan Geopark and Kotohira Jinja Shrine (the only shrine in Japan with Komaneko or guardian cats), Kotohikihama Singing Sand Museum, soba noodle making workshop, Kyotango guided walk and more. Websites: gensho.jpn.com and visitkyotango.com

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Three friends in Japan discover their love for making the katana the traditional way.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/19/learn-how-to-make-samurai-katana-blades-in-this-japanese-forge

'The world is yours': Fashion week runway show takes over Unesco headquarters

Paris Fashion Week kicked off on Tuesday (June 18) with hip-hop mogul Pharrell Williams putting on his latest branding event for Louis Vuitton at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) headquarters. Williams took over the historic Pont Neuf bridge for his lavish debut as creative director a year ago. He changed styles for his follow-up in January, with an ode to Americana that looked like a carefully staged tie-in with Beyonce's new cowboy-themed album. For his latest, the Happy singer is taking over the home of the Unesco, a symbol of international diplomacy in Paris. Under the theme of "the world is yours", a teaser on Instagram featured children as diplomats being encouraged to work for a more unified world – with Louis Vuitton-branded briefcases, naturally. Read more: Ahead of the Olympics, fashion week brings another layer of chaos to Paris The label's parent company, LVMH, announced a strengthening of its partnership with Unesco on environmental projects in April. That cannot come too soon for campaigners. Louis Vuitton, the world's most profitable fashion brand, scored just 29 out of 100 in the most recent Fashion Transparency Index by Fashion Revolution, which monitors areas such as environmental impact and labour rights. It scored just one out of 100 for "supply chain traceability", referring to its openness about how and where its products are made. Williams has a busy supply chain of his own since he is also preparing the release of a Lego biopic of his life and contributed a song to the soundtrack of Despicable Me 4. This week is devoted to menswear in Paris, followed immediately by the haute couture shows until June 27. Read more: Milan Fashion Week Men's seeks reassurance in nostalgia and artisanal craft It offers some light relief to the city, currently in turmoil over snap elections called by president Emmanuel Macron after a surge by the far right in European polls, as well as preparations for next month's Olympic Games. The Olympics Games have brought fashion week forward from July, forcing some houses to abandon this season, including Balmain, Valentino and Givenchy. A key highlight for fashionistas will be Vogue World, a mega-party organised by the magazine on Sunday (June 23), bringing together the doubly lucrative worlds of sports and luxury clothes. The industry is also preparing to say farewell to one of its most lauded designers, Belgium's Dries Van Noten, who is retiring after his show on Saturday (June 22). – AFP

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Paris Fashion Week kicked off with hip-hop mogul Pharrell Williams putting on his latest branding event for Louis Vuitton at the home of Unesco.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/19/039the-world-is-yours039-fashion-week-runway-show-takes-over-unesco-headquarters

Blackpink’s Lisa confirms new solo single ‘Rockstar’ will be released June 27

Blackpink’s Lisa (pic) has confirmed she will release her upcoming single Rockstar on June 27. The new track was confirmed by Lisa’s management company Lloud Co on its social media accounts on Tuesday, June 18, which showed a black and grey clip containing the song’s title. Lisa also shared a snippet of the track on her Instagram Stories with the same teaser. The upcoming single is Lisa’s first release since opening her management company Lloud Co in February, then signing with RCA Records to claim ownership of her music two months later. Before the confirmation, the Money hitmaker dropped hints of her new single on TikTok, where one of them contained the lines, “Baby, I’m a rockstar.” Lisa debuted as the main dancer and lead rapper of the K-pop female quartet Blackpink in August 2016. She made her solo debut in September 2021 with the single album Lalisa. – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network

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The upcoming single is Lisa’s first release since opening her management company Lloud Co in February.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/19/blackpinks-lisa-confirms-new-solo-single-rockstar-will-be-released-june-27

Striking dress worn by Fan Bingbing in Melaka is a Bernard Chandran design

Chinese actress Fan Bingbing was recently appointed as Melaka Friendship Tourism Ambassador 2024. She paid a visit to the city for the occasion – and during the trip, it was her dress that caught attention. The beautiful and striking design is by renowned Malaysian designer Datuk Seri Bernard Chandran. It comprised a loose cheongsam-inspired top and voluminous skirt. The red pleated fabric added a little extra pizzazz to the overall look. Fan Bingbing strikes a pose wearing a Bernard Chandran design. Photo: Bernard ChandranBernard posted up a photo on Instagram showing Fan dressed in his stunning creation last night (June 18). He also shared several stories on the social media platform to express his pride. He is known for designing beautiful clothes. His grand runway shows often stun and impress with elaborate setups. Read more: Bernard Chandran on fatherhood and how he keeps it 'real' with his kids Fan was appointed to the ambassador role to promote Visit Melaka Year 2024. Fan, who has 63 million followers on Weibo (a social media platform in China similar to X) and 4.1 million followers on Instagram, is often portrayed as the face of Chinese culture on the global stage. She has starred in the Hollywood superhero movie X-Men: Days Of Future Past, as well as French and South Korean films. In 2017, Fan graced the cover of Time magazine and was named one of the 100 Most Influential People.

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Chinese actress Fan Bingbing was spotted in a voluminous pleated design during her recent trip to Melaka. The dress caught attention for its bold colour.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/19/striking-dress-worn-by-fan-bingbing-in-melaka-is-a-bernard-chandran-design

Ex-TVB star Lee Lung-kei’s fiancée jailed for 25 months; he will ‘wait and marry her after’

The fiancée of former TVB actor and singer Lee Lung-kei has been jailed for 25 months after being convicted of five charges related to overstaying in Hong Kong and forging university certificates to obtain an entry permit. Wang Qingxia, 36, appeared in Sha Tin Court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching her conditions of stay, one of using a false instrument, another of making false statements to obtain her entry permit and a final charge of making a false declaration to immigration officers.

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Wang Qingxia convicted of five charges related to overstaying in Hong Kong and forging university certificates to obtain entry permit

https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/ex-tvb-star-lee-lung-keis-fiance-jailed-for-25-months-he-will-wait-and-marry-her-after

Slain Hong Kong model Abby Choi’s ex-husband jailed for 3½ years for HK$6.3 million gold theft

The former husband of slain Hong Kong socialite Abby Choi Tin-fung has been sentenced to 3½ years in jail for stealing HK$6.3 million (US$806,860) worth of gold and jewellery and escaping before his trial began in 2015. The District Court on Wednesday jailed Alex Kwong Kong-chi on seven charges, including six counts of theft arising from a fraudulent scheme in which he lured investors into buying a variety of jewellery, then persuaded them to hand the items over so he could use them to speculate in the gold market.

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Alex Kwong, 29, also jumped bail just before his 15-day trial began in November 2015

https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/19/slain-hong-kong-model-abby-chois-ex-husband-jailed-for-3-years-for-hk63-million-gold-theft

Smile without fear: Why a child's first trip to the dentist should be pleasant

WHEN it comes to oral care in children, dentists are unanimous: One of the biggest mistakes parents make is not bringing their toddlers and children in for regular check-ups early. Most of the time, they say, a child's first trip to the dentist happens only when they complain of a toothache or dental discomfort and more often than not, this is too late. "When a child comes in for treatment or extraction due to dental caries, the experience will be unpleasant and he or she will develop a fear of dentists," says Malaysian Society of Periodontology (MSP) president Dr Mohd Faizal Hafez Hidayat, adding that "... this trauma can be lifelong. "Also known as tooth decay or dental cavities, the World Health Organisation (WHO) characterised the condition as "the most common noncommunicable disease worldwide." Severe dental caries will affect health and cause pain, and may result in tooth extraction. Dr Mohd Faizal, who is also the head of Centre of Periodontology Studies at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) says the issue can also be generational. "Young parents don't bring their young children early because their parents didn't being them early either," he says. Dr Mohd Faizal says losing milk teeth too early could lead to misalignment of permanent teeth. — Photos: Systema Breaking the cycle Dentist Dr Kayla Teh says this cycle needs to be broken if parents want the younger generation to have excellent dental health which will help delay tooth decay and its complications, including gum disease. "In urban areas, kids are exposed to ultra processed foods, including gums and sweets. This, coupled with ineffective dental care, fast-tracks tooth decay. I see kids as young as four needing tooth extraction," she says. The ideal age of losing milk teeth, she says, begins around six and seven years old, when the front teeth start becoming loose as the permanent teeth push their way up to replace milk teeth. Dr Kayla says ultra processed foods coupled with ineffective dental care, fast-track tooth decay. "This replacement process continues until the child is 12 or 13 years old, with wisdom tooth being the last one to be replaced, between the age of 18 to 25," she adds. Dr Faizal says another factor that delays dental visit is the myth surrounding milk teeth. "Some parents believe losing milk teeth is fine because the kids have another set of teeth. But what some of them fail to realise is that when you lose a milk tooth before the permanent tooth is ready to come out, the space might be filled by the two flanking milk teeth and the permanent tooth won't have adequate space for itself," he says. "This results in teeth misalignment when the child is older and this takes effort and cost a lot to fix," he says. Dr Teh says there are gaps in-between milk teeth. "This is normal because permanent teeth are wider. The milk teeth's role is to retain the position for permanent teeth so you need to look after milk teeth the best you can," she says. Sem arranges dental appointments for her children when they were between one and one-and-a-half years old. — SEM XIAO HUI Very early start Dr Teh says good dental care starts at infancy, with adults wiping babies' gum with gauze and water after bottle feeding. "This is especially important if the baby is fed with formula milk, which is sweeter than breast milk," Once the first tooth is out, parents need to brush their child's teeth with an age-appropriate toothbrush. Between the ages of three and six, children can use pea-sized toothpaste and they should be taught to gargle and spit out the excess toothpaste after brushing. When the child is six, he or she can start using fluoridated toothpaste. "During this time, the child can brush his or her own teeth but parents should closely supervise to make sure the child brushes properly, especially his or her back teeth," she says. Global public health researcher Sem Xiao Hui, 40, understands the need for early dental exposure for her children Yee Chern, eight, Yee Faye, five, and Yee Hann, one. "I arrange their dental appointments as early as when their first few tooth have appeared and when they understand instructions," she says, adding that this took place when her children were between one to one-and-a-half years old. To ease any apprehension each child may have, Sem either looked for a kids dental clinic or a clinic which is kid-friendly. "I also prepare them by reading to them picture books depicting dental visits and why they should not be afraid of it," she says. With her preparation, all her children had a very pleasant first visit, which laid the good foundation for future dental check-ups. None of her children has lost any of their milk teeth and Sem attributes this to regular check-up. "If anything was wrong, I would have known early before any dental issue causes pain in my kids," she says. "The other benefit of having regular check-up is that kids tend to look after their teeth better because if they don't, then the dentist would know a few months down the road. "Parents should not be misinformed and a lack of awareness and dental education have led parents to believe that it's okay if a child loses milk teeth prematurely. If milk teeth drop prematurely, this will cause more problems when adult teeth sprout," she says. Cham with her daughter Foong. — CHAM YIN HWA Childhood practice Policy analyst Cham Yin Hwa, 38, has her mother to thank when it comes to her dental habits and how she is shaping the habits of her family. "I have always had my regular dental check-up every six months since my school days. When I was small, I was always afraid of the dental nurses who would come to school for students' dental check-up," she says. "But I credit my mother, who despite her working schedule, still made time to bring my siblings and I for regular check-up," she adds. From then on, she said, Cham and her siblings always made sure they flossed their teeth daily before bed. "It is that habit that I have cultivated that helps me establish an oral care routine for my kids," she says, When her daughter, Foong Chin Wen, 15 months, had her first tooth, Cham took her for a dental check-up. "That's in accordance to the guidelines by the Ministry of Health (MOH) on its website under 'Pertumbuhan Gigi Si Comel Anda'. I did the same for my older son too," she says. "While many people feel that it's weird or too 'kiasu' to bring your baby to the dentist that young, but going to the dentist shouldn't happen only when you face issues or have problems with your teeth. It could also uncover other underlying dental issues so preventive measures could be taken," she adds. Regular dental check-up allows kids to associate dental visit positively. — Filepic Food for teeth Dr Teh says fibrous foods are good for teeth. "When you eat, an apple, for example, or other hard fibrous fruits, salivation is increased which helps clean your teeth and neutralises the acids left in your mouth," she says. "Drinking apple juice, on the other hand, may contribute to tooth decay as there is no chewing involved," she says. As the place on which teeth grow, gum health is directly correlated to tooth health. When you don't brush, floss and use mouthwash – the three steps for holistic at-home dental care – a food residue and bacteria combination called plaque builds up around your teeth. The plaque's acids attacks the teeth and causes decay. Over time, the plaque hardens top become tartar and consequent buildup inflames your gums."This is why you need to regularly see the dentist; so any dental issues can be nipped in the bud," Dr Mohd Faizal says, adding that for this year's Gum Health Day 2024 celebration on May 12, the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) launched its Gums Rock! Keep Them Safe! campaign, targeted at Gen Z with TikTok being the main platform to disseminate information. Dr Mohd Faizal and Dr Teh were at Systema's #GumHealthFirst campaign launch, with MSP and the Health Ministry to help tackle the country's gum disease issue and raise awareness about the critical role healthy gums play in a person's overall wellness. "Gum disease was once a problem of the elderly, but with a less tooth-friendly diet coupled with a lackadaisical attitude in dental care, the condition is affecting younger people," Dr Mohd Faizal adds. Dr Mohd Faizal says a reversal of this trend requires everyone's efforts. "It all goes back to knowing the importance of early dental care and this starts from home, with parents taking a proactive measure for the toddlers' dental health long before they complain of toothache," he concludes.

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When a child comes in for treatment or extraction due to dental caries, the experience will be unpleasant and he or she will develop a fear of dentists.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/19/smile-without-fear-why-a-child039s-first-trip-to-the-dentist-should-be-pleasant

Tony Bennett’s daughters sue their brother over his handling of the late singer’s assets

Tony Bennett’s two daughters are suing their brother, alleging he mishandled and failed to disclose some of their father’s assets in his role as trustee of the late singer ‘s estate. The lawsuit filed Wednesday in New York by Antonia and Johanna Bennett accuses D’Andrea “Danny” Bennett of not accounting for all of the proceeds from this year’s sale of Tony Bennett’s catalogue and certain image rights to the brand development firm Iconoclast. The court filing claims that “it remains unclear what music assets (and other property) were or were not sold as part of the deal” because the sisters “have not been provided with various details of the transaction despite repeated requests.” Danny Bennett, who was the singer’s manager and runs the family trust, didn’t respond Thursday to an email and phone message seeking comment on the lawsuit. Another brother, Daegal “Dae” Bennett, and Tony’s widow, Susan Benedetto, were also named in the lawsuit. The lawsuit further alleges that Danny Bennett “obtained personal benefits for himself and his company” from transactions, including the sale of memorabilia, made on behalf of Tony Bennett, the family trust and Benedetto Arts LLC. The sisters are seeking unspecified “equitable relief” as well as a full accounting and inventory of the trust. It demands Danny Bennett turn over receipts, disbursements, expenditures and tax returns. “Although Danny and his counsel have provided piecemeal information and produced some documents to petitioners’ counsel, the information provided raises more questions than answers and fails to provide anything close to an accounting of Tony’s assets and financial affairs,” the court filing said. Tony Bennett, a legendary interpreter of classic American songs who created new standards such as I Left My Heart In San Francisco, died last July at age 96. There was no specific cause, but Bennett had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016. Bennett released more than 70 albums, bringing him 19 competitive Grammys. – AP

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Tony Bennett’s two daughters are suing their brother, alleging he mishandled and failed to disclose some of their father’s assets in his role as trustee of the late singer ‘s estate.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/tony-bennetts-daughters-sue-their-brother-over-his-handling-of-the-late-singers-assets

Men are upping the ante in style stakes when it comes to their dressing

Red carpet fashion is no longer just for the ladies, men now put extra effort to stand out at high-profile events too. Traditionally, it is only the women who are asked, “Who are you wearing?” That is because guys attending film premieres or awards shows tend to opt for non-descript tuxedos and suits. At the recent Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, Met Gala and more, male celebrities can be seen embracing daring outfits. “What’s happening is the deconstruction of the black-tie dress code. It’s very interesting,” says Aizat Aidid, creative director of Glam and Glam Lelaki. He points out that men, especially younger ones, are taking the formal elements of traditional red carpet dressing and changing it to be more fashionable. According to him, their outfits are becoming much more out-there, as well as a lot less classic. “I find that bell bottom pants are making a comeback. Loose fitting suits can also be seen frequently on the red carpet. It’s a more relaxed vibe now,” Aizat notes. One such man who is not afraid to really go all out when dressing up is Joshua Benedict. As Mister World Malaysia 2022, he is frequently seen out and about town. At a recent press conference, Joshua wore a bold, patterned suit jacket. He was shirtless (this is a trend adopted by male Hollywood stars too). “Celebrities like Harry Styles can be seen embracing flamboyant looks, and it works!” Joshua enthuses. “At the end of the day, if you are able to carry a certain look confidently, then that is fashion. There is nothing right or wrong to it.” At last year’s Cannes Film Festival, loose shirts were a big hit among men there. Actors Manu Rios, Jason Fernandez, Jose Condessa and George Steane wore Saint Laurent designs. The chic and billowy tops (worn with several buttons undone and some, without sleeves) drew all eyes. Even Vogue praised the trend, describing it as “totally refreshing”. Joshua however feels that you should not lose yourself when dressing up. He explains that celebrities may always feel the need to be among the best-dressed at an event, but there is no point to it if they then feel uncomfortable. “I’m the type of man who makes bold fashion choices, but there is still a limit to it,” he relates. “Too much is when people don’t look at you, and instead your clothes become the full focus. Think of it as the outfit wearing the person – instead of the other way around, which is what we should always aim for.” Harry Styles is a male celebrity who has somehow changed the perception of how men should dress. Photo: Instagram/Harry Styles Read more: Double-breasted suit jackets are having a fashion moment on the red carpet Daringly smart choices Commenting on the evolution of men’s dressing, Joshua believes that it is a cycle. He insists that men were already peacocking on the red carpet back in decades like the 1970s and 80s – and certain trends are coming back. He cites examples of how the double-breasted suit is popular this year, or that bell bottoms are becoming acceptable again. “Guys used to wear really bold outfits, really colourful outfits, back then,” he says. Aizat likes how the new-gen celebrities will always dress similarly to their film characters during promotional tours. “Like Timothee Chalamet, for the Dune: Part 2 red carpet events he would dress like a space age modern man. It’s not a suit-and-tie kind of thing for him,” he explains. Actor Jeff Goldblum wears a black tuxedo jacket at the Met Gala, which he accessorises with three brooches. Photo: AFP“And his chosen brands also play a big role to set him as a new ‘red carpet king’. We see him wearing niche brands like JunnJ and Haider Ackermann. “This shows that he – or his stylist – is very smart. I believe it was a choice made to capture the fashion world’s attention. These smaller brands are actually more daring when it comes to showcasing different looks.” On the subject of stylists, Aizat says that they play a big role in developing and curating the perfect style for each of these celebrities. “You can say that a stylist is like a somebody who connects celebrities with designers or brands – in the best way possible.” Zendaya, who is currently the fashion world’s darling, has celebrity stylist Law Roach to thank for when it comes to her winning red carpet looks. Roach has styled the actress for over a decade, and is the person credited for putting together her fierce and fabulous outfits for film premieres and other events. Aizat points out how there are certain male celebrities in Malaysia who are catching the eye in terms of fashion – just because they are working closely with good stylists. To him, there is still room for improvement when it comes to our local scene, but it has been improving and certain celebrities are getting noticed for their dressing. “Hael Husaini, Syafiq Kyle, Fattah Amin and Awal Ashaari, to name a few, these are the men here who are conquering the red carpets.” Read more: As seen at this year's Oscars, brooches a must-have fashion accessory for men Putting a pin in it At this year’s Oscars, a key trend that emerged among men there was the use of brooches. “It was notable, if not surprising, to see a sudden proliferation of this year’s male stars wearing baubles more often associated with granny’s jewel box than Hollywood heartthrobs,” wrote The New York Times. Tony Eusoff wears a brooch for a recent film event in KL. Brooches are now seen as the go-to accessory for men on the red carpet. Photo: Amee PhilipsBrooches were pinned to the lapels of Cillian Murphy, Teo Yoo, Ke Huy Quan, Robert Downey Jr, Tatanka Means, Mark Ruffalo and Jeffrey Wright. They were stylishly fastened to Colman Domingo’s bow tie. Malaysian men also adopted the accessory. At a gala night for local film The Experts, which took place last month in Kuala Lumpur, actors Tony Eusoff, Jay Iswazir and Shah Reza Mohd Shah were spotted looking sharp in suits – but what really elevated their look were the brooches they wore. “Today, jewellery has become a powerful means of self-expression for men,” says jewellery designer Amee Philips. “High-profile male celebrities and fashion icons have played a pivotal role in breaking down these gender norms, showing that jewellery can enhance masculinity and style.” She says that her namesake brand is indeed seeing a growing interest from men looking to make a statement with bold designs and extraordinary gemstones. Like how men are not just playing it safe with their outfits, the way they accessorise for the red carpet is also changing. You may think that all a male celebrity has got to play around with is a statement wristwatch, but that is in the past. Bling is not just a woman’s best friend too. “Current trends in men’s jewellery include bold statement pieces like brooches and rings, often featuring gemstones or intricate designs. Bangles, bracelets, and even pearls are becoming more acceptable and fashionable for men,” Philips reveals. “Layering different pieces, such as bracelets and necklaces, is also popular, allowing for a more personalised look. Additionally, there’s a growing appreciation for bespoke and custom-made jewellery, as men have been seeking pieces that reflect their individual style and personality.” This really says a lot about the changing perception of men’s dressing – especially for red carpet events. It seems that ladies no longer have the sole monopoly of being the main focus, and gents are now not afraid to take risky style choices.

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BERVIN CHEONG

2024-06-19 00:00:00

fashion,menswear,trends,red carpet,accessories

As seen at red carpet events in Malaysia and around the world, it is the male celebrities who are taking risks with their fashion choices.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/19/men-are-upping-the-ante-in-style-stakes-when-it-comes-to-their-dressing

Your pet: When it's time for a checkup

Spring – or midyear – is a great time of year to get your pet’s annual wellness exams done. These exams are great to see if your pet gained (or lost) any weight over the past few months, discuss with your veterinarian the development of any medical or behavioral trends, and focus on keeping your dog as healthy as possible so you and your dog can enjoy the outdoors during summer and the rest of the year. Now is also a great time of year for your dog to get up to date on their vaccines and to get medication to help protect them from those parasites such as worms, fleas and ticks that become more prevalent when the weather becomes warmer. What is a wellness exam? A wellness examination is a routine medical examination or checkup of your dog who appears healthy as opposed to an examination of a dog who presents for illness or accidents. Why are wellness exams important? Dogs can’t communicate their feelings and owners are often unaware of hidden or subtle changes occurring in their dogs, such as weight loss, dental disease or development of heart conditions and murmurs. A health condition may become advanced before a dog shows obvious signs that an owner recognises. Regular wellness exams can help your veterinarian detect signs earlier so prompt medical attention can be focused to manage or correct a problem before it becomes severe enough to affect a dog’s quality of life. Are wellness exams only necessary once a year? No. The frequency of wellness exams depends on a dog’s individual age and health status. Puppies should get examined while they are getting their series of vaccines, often starting around seven to eight weeks of age, and finishing up at 16-20 weeks of age. After that, if they are healthy, once a year should be sufficient unless any medical issues arise. With an average adult dog, annual wellness exams are usually sufficient until they become senior or geriatric dogs. At that point, a wellness exam every six months is usually recommended. The exact age when a dog becomes “senior” varies but is usually around seven to nine years of age, depending on the size and breed of dog. Large and giant breed dogs age more quickly than toy and small breed dogs. Your veterinarian is in the best position to recommend how often your dog should have a wellness examination.Is there anything I need to do to prepare my dog for a wellness examination? Prepare yourself with some basic information, such as knowing the brand and type of food that your dog eats, any supplement you may be giving, and a list of questions or concerns that you have regarding your dog’s behaviour or health. If your dog is a recent acquisition or adoption, bring in any past medical and vaccine records. What will my veterinarian check during a wellness examination? Your veterinary clinic will usually request that you bring in a fresh sample of your dog’s faeces collected prior to the wellness examination. This sample will be processed and microscopically evaluated for the presence of parasite eggs. This is important for all dogs but especially important for puppies since many puppies have intestinal parasites. Faecal samples should also be brought in to your veterinarian if your dog is having bouts of loose stool or diarrhoea. During a routine wellness examination, your veterinarian will get a history by asking you questions about your dog’s diet and appetite, exercise, how much they’re drinking, urinating, bowel movements, and if there have been any changes in your dog’s typical habits or behaviour. Your veterinarian will then perform a thorough physical examination of your dog. Based on your pet’s history and physical examination, your veterinarian will then make recommendations for specific preventive treatments. In some dogs, especially older dogs, additional diagnostics may be recommended such as radiographs of the chest or abdomen to assess organ shape and size. – Tribune News Service/American Kennel Club/Dr Jerry Klein For more information about responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC at akc.org.

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2024-06-19 00:00:00

Pets,dogs,dog health,annual checkup

Here are some important tips for your pup’s annual wellness visit.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/19/your-pet-when-it039s-time-for-a-checkup

Remembering the once quiet streets of Melaka

For many, the historical city of Melaka is an ideal spot for a quick weekend getaway. However, for Lee Wee Xian, who spent his formative years in the heart of the city, Melaka is more than just a tourist destination – it’s home. Despite having lived and worked in Kuala Lumpur for nearly 15 years, he feels a constant yearning when away and a deep sense of belonging whenever he returns to his hometown. “My family ran a shop on Jalan Tokong near Jonker Street, selling things used for prayer, like joss sticks. It was the family business for three generations,” says Lee during a recent interview in Petaling Jaya. “Sadly, it closed down two years ago, and that was one of the things that motivated me to paint my neighbourhood and other places that hold a lot of memories for me,” he adds. Lee’s 'Morning Ride (Jalan Hang Kasturi)', a glimpse of Melaka without the weekend tour buses. Photo: Lee Wee Xian Lee, 34, works as a lecturer in biomedical science for a local college by day, but at night, he lets his creative side loose through watercolour paintings, his medium of choice. “Of course, oil and acrylic also have their own beauty, but personally, I prefer watercolour – especially the ability to play with light and shadow by combining water and pigments. “If you make a mistake, you can’t correct it. But sometimes the mistake can be an unexpected surprise, adding value to the painting,” he shares. Five years ago, Lee decided to sign up for a watercolour workshop by Brian Tai, a self-taught artist known for his watercolour paintings of landscapes and cityscapes. ‘I don’t paint those famous or iconic scenes of Melaka that usually come to mind,’ says Lee. Photo: Samuel Ong/The Star “Before then, I had been dabbling in watercolour, but what he taught us in that workshop was an eye-opener for me. It was my first time being exposed to fine art, and after that, I called him up and said I wanted to learn watercolour from him,” says Lee. What started as weekly classes with Tai led to several group shows and joining the Malaysian Watercolour Society. Now, Lee is finally unveiling his solo debut, Overture, taking place at Awegallery, Petaling Jaya until the end of this month. From day and to night The show features 25 pieces that capture nostalgic scenes of Melaka – a mix of present day Melaka and the Melaka of Lee’s memories when he was growing up. “My memories of Melaka have always been a source of inspiration in my art. I knew from early on that if I were to ever do a solo show, I wanted it to be about Melaka. 'With Quiet Steps' (watercolour on paper, 2024). Photo: Lee Wee Xian “I don’t paint those famous or iconic scenes of Melaka that usually come to mind. What I paint here is basically my perspective, my vision of Melaka from 15 years back, before I moved away. The city itself has changed so much over the years, so through my paintings, I’m able to keep those memories alive,” he adds. The Melaka town postcards of the past bear little resemblance to the modern city today. Like an urban sketcher, Lee approaches this old city, designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008, with a contemporary painter’s perspective rooted in local insight. Each time Lee returns home, he acknowledges that the city’s landscape is evolving rapidly, for better or for worse. In addition to old shophouses being repurposed for modern businesses, heritage preservation continues to be a contentious issue in Melaka. This is underscored by recent developments like the installation of “giant fans” in the historic Dutch Square. In 'Watching People' (watercolor on paper, 2024), Lee captures a rare, leisurely scene in the touristic town centre of Melaka. Photo: Lee Wee Xian In his paintings, he opts to depict the bustling Jonker Walk devoid of crowds. For example, in Blue Night, one of the pieces featured in the exhibition, Lee paints Jalan Hang Lekiu on a quiet week day evening, without the Jonker night market that you’d normally encounter on the weekends. The scene is painted in a yellow-orange hue to capture the the soft glow of the warm streetlights. “Jalan Hang Lekiu is lined by shophouses that used to house long-established businesses, some of which have since closed. One of them is the cafe where me and my brother used to have breakfast in the morning with my late grandfather. Painting these scenes allows me to preserve those precious memories and the serene beauty of the nights I cherish,” he shares. With a full-time job as an educator on his plate, Lee has to put a concerted effort into his art practice. There is no shortage of independent cafes in Melaka, and Lee rolls out a lazy day scene in 'A Place For Espresso' (watercolour on paper, 2024). Photo: Lee Wee Xian “During the daytime, I give my all to teaching – it’s very tiring, but at the same time, it’s also very rewarding. But the nighttime is dedicated to my art practice. I make it a point to finish at least one painting a week, though usually I’m able to complete more than that,” says Lee, who has been teaching since he was 23. Overture is divided into two themes: day and night. “The paintings are arranged so that it starts off with lively day scenes and progresses into more relaxed, contemplative night scenes; almost like a metaphor for my own daily life,” says Lee. Whenever he’s home, he enjoys leisurely strolling around his neighborhood, capturing photos on his smartphone for future inspiration. “I also like having a focal point or a ‘main character’ in my paintings, because I feel that it helps tell a story, which has more impact,” says Lee, adding that painting watercolours has taught him to live in the moment. 'A Scene From Geographer Cafe' (watercolour on paper, 2024). Photo: Lee Wee Xian “Let’s say today I wanted to start a painting. I will make sure to finish it in one go. You can’t leave it and come back to it days later, because it dries up very quickly, and once it does, it’s hard to maintain homogeneity of the colour in your piece. “So for me, it ties back to how time keeps marching forward and changes will come, whether we like it or not, so we should capture the moments that matter to us and honour them, but we also need to continue moving forward.” “I chose to name my debut solo exhibition Overture because in music, an overture is a musical introduction to an opera or play, so I felt that it fits perfectly, as this show marks the official beginning of my artistic journey, featuring places from Melaka, where it all started,” he concludes. Overture is showing at Awegallery, Petaling Jaya until June 30.

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2024-06-19 00:00:00

Arts,Lee Wee Xian,Overture,watercolour,exhibition,Awegallery

Artist Lee Wee Xian paints a watercolour tribute to forgotten and vanishing scenes of Melaka in his debut solo exhibition 'Overture'

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/19/remembering-the-once-quiet-streets-of-melaka

Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn's LA home broken into twice in 4 months

Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn had two break-ins within a four-month span at their Los Angeles home, the Death Becomes Her star has revealed. The couple discovered the first incident, which occurred in 2020, after coming home from dinner. "We were gone maybe two hours and 20 minutes or something," Hawn told Kelly Ripa on the Let's Talk Off Camera podcast. The two turned on the TV and Hawn called it a night. Upon entering her bedroom, though, she came across a well-rummaged site. "They had broken in from the balcony to our bedroom, our closets, and they completely knocked down my door, which was a safe door, so they're very, very sophisticated," Hawn said. "They got a lot of my goodies, if you know what I mean. So I'm thinking, 'Oh, my God. Well, the chances are, I guess that's it'." Hawn, 78, assumed that would be the first and only time, because "odds are that's not gonna happen again." Four months later, though, she was home alone with her dog when she heard a "big thump upstairs," leaving her to wonder, "What the hell was that?" "Was that a sonic boom?" she said. "Did somebody jump somewhere? I mean, and as it turned out, the next day, we discovered that they were trying to get in my bedroom while I was in the house." Now, Hawn has amped up security. "I'm never without a guard," she said. Hawn and Russell have been together since 1983 but have not married. Their blended family consists of sons Oliver Hudson, Wyatt Russell, Boston Russell and daughter Kate Hudson. – Los Angeles Times/Tribune News Service

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

The couple discovered the first incident, which occurred in 2020, after coming home from dinner.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/kurt-russell-and-goldie-hawn039s-la-home-broken-into-twice-in-4-months

How China wheelchair users claim the outdoors with hand-cranked bikes

Speeding along crumbling roads past dusty villages and herds of sheep, a team of cyclists turns heads in China’s Inner Mongolia with their unusual equipment. Most of the people in the group were wheelchair users, and were strapped into low-slung, three-wheeled handcycle bikes instead of the two-wheeled mountain bikes more commonly seen on the challenging terrain. Dodging trucks and car-sized potholes, they barrelled down country roads towards the regional capital Hohhot, frequently greeted with excited shouts by groups of villagers. The cyclists are members of Krankin’ Thru China (KTC), formed over a decade ago to promote wheelchair users’ participation in open-air sports. Adaptive bicycles alow disabled cyclists to safely ride alongside vehicles on highways. China passed an accessibility law last year aimed at creating a “barrier-free” society but everyday life for people with disabilities can still be challenging in many parts of the country. “From the very start we wanted to use handcycle bikes as a way to encourage injured friends to come outdoors,” said Wang Feng, who discovered adaptive bikes years after losing the use of his legs because of a childhood illness. KTC has embarked on multiple long-distance trips in remote parts of the country, including a three-month journey in 2017 from the mountainous southwestern province of Yunnan to the capital Beijing. They have also collaborated with a Shanghai-based university to help build a prototype aimed at making handcycle bikes more affordable and widely available, one of which they tested on the odyssey through rural Inner Mongolia. With adaptive bicycles, people with disabilities can conquer new paths and embrace the thrill of cycling with confidence. So impressive Wang and teammates Pan Yifei and Joshua Dominick set off in early May from Qahar Right Rear Banner, a sparsely populated area known for its mines and a nearby volcano park. Wang said he often meets people who don’t realise the bikes are designed with disability in mind. “When I tell them this is a hand-cranked bike for disabled people, they’re shocked... they think it’s so impressive,” he said. Wang (left) and Pan preparing to ride their handcycles by the roadway. In Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, the group met a disability association who took turns trying out the bikes. The locals propelled themselves rapidly around a running track as curious children and retirees looked on. “I saw this before in videos but I never tried it myself,” said Di Wenke, 36.” I felt as fast as a machine... and I felt like onlookers envied me.” Di said that adaptive sports - including wheelchair dancing and handcycling – helped tackle some of the social stigma surrounding disability. “Compared to my previous closed-off mindset, my heart has opened up,” he said. “Having a hobby of your own can be a very nurturing thing.” As well as bike trips, KTC hosts regular adaptive swimming and horseback riding events. “Among the injured friends that I know, they have experienced a change in their attitude,” Wang said, with many asking him for advice on becoming more involved. Pan (second from left) Dominick (second from right) and Wang (right) preparing to ride their handcycles by a roadway in Hohhot, China's northern Inner Mongolia region. Frequent obstacles Many challenges remain. As the team approached Hohhot, they relied on word of mouth and trial and error to find country inns that could accommodate their wheelchairs. The riders needed assistance to climb the front steps of one place, and stairs and elevated bathroom floors were frequent obstacles. While China’s largest cities are making progress in building accessible infrastructure, smaller towns and rural communities are largely constructed without wheelchair users in mind. And when it comes to mountain biking, most adaptive bikes on the market are prohibitively expensive and constructed out of specialised parts that are difficult to replace. “It happened before, where we were on the road in Yunnan... that there was a breakdown, so this was quite a big safety risk,” Wang said. “A lot of assistive equipment has to be custom-made, causing it to be very expensive or for there to be very few (options)... so there are also very few people who can access these sports,” teammate Pan said. Thanks to his special bicycle, Pan experiences freedom and independence, making every journey possible. The prototype bike tested on this trip - designed by researchers from New York University (NYU) in the United States, and built by the team alongside lecturer Noel Joyce and students at NYU’s Shanghai campus – is an attempt to change that. It is constructed of standardised parts available at most machine shops and based on an open-plan blueprint. Joyce hopes the new model can lower the barriers to enjoyment of outdoor sports. “Anyone with a disability should be able to repair a bicycle in the same amount of time that anyone that’s able-bodied,” Joyce said. “It’s the start of trying to create scenarios where people with disabilities are more frequently out in the world and enjoying the world.” – AFP Relaxnews

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Living

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Long

2024-06-19 00:00:00

Disability,Transportation,Adaptive bicycles

In Inner Mongolia, wheelchair users on three-wheeled handcycle bicycles from Krankin’ Thru China promote outdoor sports for the disabled.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2024/06/19/how-china-wheelchair-users-claim-the-outdoors-with-hand-cranked-bikes

Actor Joe Alwyn breaks silence on Taylor Swift split for the first time

In a rare move, Joe Alwyn has spoken about his six-year relationship with American pop star Taylor Swift, which began in 2016 and ended in April 2023. The break-up made headlines at the time, but in a new interview with British newspaper The Sunday Times published online on June 15, the 33-year-old British actor – who is notoriously guarded about his personal life – acknowledged it for the first time publicly. In the interview – which was to promote his new film Kinds Of Kindness directed by Greek auteur Yorgos Lanthimos and co-starring Emma Stone – Alwyn lamented the public nature of the end of the relationship. “I would hope that anyone and everyone can empathise and understand the difficulties that come with the end of a long, loving, fully committed relationship of over six-and-a-half years. That is a hard thing to navigate. What is unusual and abnormal in this situation is that, one week later, it’s suddenly in the public domain and the outside world is able to weigh in,” he says. Even while they were a couple, Swift, 34, and Alwyn rarely spoke about their relationship. In the 2020 documentary Miss Americana, the singer shared that this was because of a mutual decision to keep things private. Nevertheless, fans have feverishly speculated on why the couple called it quits, particularly after Swift released her 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department (TTPD), in April 2024. But in the new interview, Alwyn cautioned Swifties against making assumptions, saying: “You have something very real suddenly thrown into a very unreal space: tabloids, social media, press, where it is then dissected, speculated on, pulled out of shape beyond recognition. And the truth is, to that last point, there is always going to be a gap between what is known and what is said.” He also seemed to shoot down theories that the TTPD track, The Black Dog, is about him, saying that he has never been to Vauxhall. Some fans had deduced that the song is about a pub called The Black Dog, located in the south London neighbourhood of Vauxhall, based on lyrics such as “I watch as you walk into some bar called The Black Dog, and pierce new holes in my heart”. In any case, anyone hoping that Alwyn will continue to shed more light on his relationship with Swift will be disappointed. “As everyone knows, we together – both of us, mutually – decided to keep the more private details of our relationship private. It was never something to commodify, and I see no reason to change that now... And, look, this is also a little over a year ago now, and I feel fortunate to be in a really great place in my life, professionally and personally,” he said, though he declined to clarify if he is still in contact with Swift or if he is dating again. For her part, Swift has kept to her vow of secrecy about her time with Alwyn even after their “love story” came to a close. But in an interview with Time magazine in December 2023, while talking about her current boyfriend, American football star Travis Kelce, she said: “When you say a relationship is public, that means I’m going to see him do what he loves, we’re showing up for each other, other people are there and we don’t care... The opposite of that is you have to go to an extreme amount of effort to make sure no one knows that you’re seeing someone.” Swift is in the midst of the European leg of her record-breaking Eras Tour. She recently told crowds in Liverpool, England, that the tour will come to a complete end in December, presumably after a final stretch of shows in North America. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

Alwyn has spoken about his six-year relationship with the American pop star, which began in 2016 and ended in April 2023.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/actor-joe-alwyn-breaks-silence-on-taylor-swift-split-for-the-first-time

Debunking male misconceptions about sex

Whether it’s searching for “sketchy” things at the back of the computer lab or picking up clues from friends or movies, curiosity has always driven us to explore and learn about sex and its mysteries. However, many men struggle with misunderstandings and confusion regarding this topic due to a lack of reliable information and open discussion. In a society where talking about sex remains shrouded in embarrassment and euphemisms, Malaysian boys may often find themselves navigating their sexual development with misconceptions and misinformation. Consultant clinical andrologist Dr Mohd Ismail Mohd Tambi notes that: “Men don’t talk about it because it’s very private, which leads to them not knowing what is really happening.” According to a online poll conducted by StarHealth in May (2024) to find out how men first learn about sex: 37.7% first learnt about sex through friends 32.8% through pornography 12.7% through school lessons 1.6% through their father, and 15.3% through other ways. Some of the alternative methods included through books, magazines, TV shows, the Internet, other family members and self-exploration. Indeed, college student Claarence Christopher shares that his early knowledge of sex was primarily influenced by his peers and online exploration during his childhood years. “For me, I learned about sex when I was around 10 or 11 years old. “And it was mostly from friends, because I don’t think the sexual education system here in Malaysia is actually that extensive. “From what I remember, when I was still studying in secondary school, all we had was a chapter on sex,” says the 23-year-old. However, he opined that the approach to the lesson was lacking, with a focus on the anatomical aspects and a reluctance to address the emotional and relational aspects of sex. Unsurprising then that many men have an unrealistic perception of what is deemed sexually normal, with their knowledge gleaned from unreliable internet sources, friends who may themselves have the wrong ideas about sex, or the exaggerated portrayals seen in pornography. These misconceptions about sex not only create confusion, but may also have a serious negative impact on their self-confidence, relationships, and even efforts at conception. Unrealistic endurance Dr Mohd Ismail points out that Asian men have an average erection size of about 12.5cm, debunking the misconception of extreme large sizes perpetuated by pornography and digital manipulation. — KEVIN LEE/The Star According to Dr Mohd Ismail, one major misunderstanding among men is the expected duration of sexual activity. Some men believe that prolonged intercourse, sometimes lasting hours, is normal and sexually desirable. Dr Mohd Ismail debunks this myth by explaining the practical and physical implications of such prolonged activity. “Your partner will definitely have very severe pain in the vagina. “Her vagina will not secrete any lubrication – it will be painful,” he explains. Many men mistakenly believe that women are always ready for penetrative sex and that they will naturally produce enough lubrication to facilitate comfortable intercourse. However, the vagina only produces sufficient lubricant as a natural sexual reflex when the woman is aroused. In addition, factors such as hormonal fluctuations, stress, medications and age can affect a woman’s natural lubrication levels. Without lubrication, sex can be uncomfortable, painful, and even result in injury for the woman. Claarence, who is often a point of reference for sexual matters among his friends, recalls how a friend confided in him about the distressing ordeal she faced during sexual intercourse. “She went through a lot of pain, and even when she asked to stop, this guy did not want to stop. “Guys assume that you can just put it in and be done with it – I feel that that is wrong. “Just because their partners are moaning, doesn’t mean that they are enjoying it. “You need to be respectful of your partner’s feelings and how they receive it as well,” he says. Dr Mohd Ismail agrees, stressing that sex is intended to be a mutually-pleasurable experience, not one that causes pain. “Isn’t it supposed to be pleasant for both of you? “Lovemaking is not supposed to be painful,” he points out. He notes that misconceptions about the duration of sexual performance contribute to unrealistic expectations, which can also lead to issues like pain, difficulty ejaculating and distress among men. Size and stimulation Many men also tend to believe that they need to have a larger penis in order to be sexually adequate – a perception often influenced by friends, pornographic depictions and digital manipulation. Misconceptions around penis sizes can lead to significant psychological distress, causing men to feel inadequate and insecure. This can lead them to trying out unproven methods for penile enhancement. Dr Mohd Ismail shares that: “I’m getting all kinds of patients coming to see me, who say ‘I bought the stuff, I applied it, but nothing happened.’” He points out that the average erect penis size for Asian men is around 12.5 centimetres. “Penis size is determined by your genes, your chromosomes, your ethnicity – and this comes from your parents,” he says. Another misconception relates to ejaculation difficulties. He shares that a patient came to see him because he was unable to ejaculate during intercourse, despite being able to do so through masturbation. “He was so tuned to visually enjoying masturbation in his own style of stimulation that he could ejaculate only with that specific type of stimulation.” As such, Dr Mohd Ismail emphasises the importance of understanding penile sensitivity. “Men need to understand the sensitivity of their penis: which part is sensitive, and how to tune it to get the proper sensitivity to be able to ejaculate in their partner.” Simple ways to help fix ejaculation difficulties and respond to gentler stimulation can include loosening your grip during masturbation, alternating sex positions during intercourse, and using lubricant, he says. Claarence shares that his early knowledge of sex was mostly gleaned from friends and the Internet. — CLAARENCE CHRISTOPHER Learning the right way Dr Mohd Ismail explains that the process of understanding one’s sexual orientation begins early in life. “The process of sexual orientation, knowing about oneself, what we’re feeling, our needs, our fear and our delights – all this starts from childhood itself,” he says. This developmental journey is encapsulated in what is known as the Freudian cycle. The Freudian cycle outlines the stages of psychosexual development that shape an individual’s understanding of sexuality from a young age. “During this stage, children start to recognise what gives them pleasure and satisfaction,” Dr Mohd Ismail explains. “This knowledge is intertwined with their developing sense of self and their emerging sexual identity and knowledge. “Knowing oneself and particular things that give you pleasure and satisfaction is crucial.” However, Claarrence notes that the taboo nature of sex education in Malaysia often hinders the natural sexual development of many young people. “I feel that the way we approach sexual education itself is already something of a red flag for me. “Even if it’s not about pleasure or general education, it should be in a way where they educate you for your own safety,” he says. He believes that sexual education should encompass more than just the mechanics of sex, extending to crucial topics like consent, respect and understanding one’s body. “I’m pretty sure my teacher never talked about these topics,” he says. Claarence also emphasises the importance of men having an open mind and being willing to challenge notions, particularly those derived from sources like pornography. “What you see in pornography – given that that is where most people get their know-ledge from – is not always real.” Dr Mohd Ismail stresses that men should “look for a source where you know you can get proper information”. “Make sure the website is a medical website,” he says. And if you have doubts that go beyond what available reliable sources can answer, do seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.

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Wellness

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Long

2024-06-19 00:00:00

Wellness,Sex,sex education,men's health

Sex is a topic often shrouded in taboo and misunderstanding, including among Malaysian boys and men.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/2024/06/19/debunking-male-misconceptions-about-sex

76yo Dutchman spends 34 years building a Roman castle in his garden

Meet Lord Gregorious, a 76-year-old Dutchman who has single-handedly built a five-storey Roman-style castle in his back garden, complete with knights, damsels and a shimmering dragon fashioned from recycled metal. The towers of the Olt Stoutenburght Castle (“Old Naughty Citadel”) rise unexpectedly from the flat fields around the tiny village of Blesdijke in the northern Dutch countryside. The pensioner, real name Gerry Halman, has spent 34 years on his labour of love, painstakingly sourcing materials from dozens of countries, drawing inspiration from China, the Roman Empire and ancient Egypt. “One morning in 1990, I said to my wife, ‘I’m ready. I have a complete picture. I know what the building looks like, from the bottom to the flag’,” the moustachioed Halman said, resplendent in a jaunty fur hat. Since then, constructing and furnishing the castle has been his “passion”, travelling all over the world to source materials that do justice to his vision. Above the vaunted main hall hangs a metal chandelier from Istanbul and ornate Jugendstil iron railings from Libya. Halman in his Olt Stoutenburght Castle that he single-handedly built. The room is equipped with a wooden bar taken from the Orient Express dining wagon, embossed with signs entreating gentlemen not to urinate on the floor. Hundreds of books about art and history adorn the walls of the library, with a duelling pistol and Indonesian ritual suicide dagger strewn casually across the desk. For 35 years, Halman ran a costume shop in nearby Zwolle and has populated his castle with a cast of characters including knights in shining armour, damsels in distress and a statue of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. On top of the 26m-high building coils a dragon made from hundreds of pieces of recycled metal – a nod to the Chinese tradition of protecting the home. Next to the dragon lies a cobra, also made of glittering metal and a symbol of the pharaohs of ancient Egypt. A mediaeval helmet inside the castle. ‘I’m not mad’ What drives someone with no architectural or building experience to start such a project? “What drives people to cycle for three weeks through France or go to the gym?” a good-natured Halman replied to this question, describing the urge to create the castle as an “obligation”. “I’ve always been a fan of the fantasy world since I was a kid, not the real world.” But he ran up against the real world when he took his plans to the local authorities for planning permission. “The mayor said: ‘He’s crazy. He is not a builder. He has no architecture experience and he wants to build a castle’.” A terrace decorated with statues and models at the Old Naughty Citadel. However, he eventually won planning permission after much back-and-forth with the authorities, so long as the castle was lower than 28m. Most of the materials are recycled or sourced from Halman’s trips around Europe’s antique markets. It’s all self-financed but he has no idea what the total bill is – “Don’t ever ask how much it costs, otherwise you would never dare do it.” Like the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, the Olt Stoutenburght is “never finished”, he said. “I have a motto. You can always improve on beauty.” His three children will carry on his life’s work when he dies. His granddaughter, 16-year-old Sara van den Kamp, recalled frolicking in the castle grounds as a little girl and family Christmas feasts in the grand hall. Halman has always been a fan of the fantasy world since he was a kid. “It’s pretty cool. Not many people can say their grandfather owns a place like this and has built a place like this. It’s very unique,” she said. Halman’s wife of 50 years “likes” the project but “stays away”, he said. “I do my own thing... this is for me. We have the perfect marriage.” Tourists come from all over to admire the castle. Monique Meijer, a 55-year-old nurse, gasped when she entered the hall. “It’s just fantastic,” she gushed. “I find it bizarre how he did this on his own. Very beautiful inside. Lots of arches and beautiful brickwork. Lots of imagination,” she said. Halman says that many people walk away from a visit thinking he’s crazy, but he cites a line from Spanish artist Salvador Dali, another inspiration. “The only difference between me and a madman is that I’m not mad.” – AFP Relaxnews

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2024-06-19 00:00:00

Design,StarExtra

Gerry Halman painstakingly sourced materials from dozens of countries to build the structure, drawing inspiration from China, the Roman Empire and ancient Egypt.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2024/06/19/76yo-dutchman-spends-34-years-building-a-roman-castle-in-his-garden

Paris revamps tourist landmark to attract locals

The Champs-Elysees, the iconic avenue sweeping through central Paris, France, dotted with cafes and shops, connects the Place de la Concorde in the east with the Arc de Triomphe in the west in a single, breathtakingly straight line. But one thing seems to be missing amid the throngs of tourists – Parisians themselves. A true Parisian is rare on the Champs-Elysees, and as one local said, that is not really surprising. “There’s no place for us – no garden, nowhere to sit,” said Xavier LeBrun, 35, as he watched tourists stream past on the almost 2km avenue during his cigarette break. The Champs-Elysees is “... where Parisians cross to get from one place to another, and that’s it”, he said. A top tourist attraction, locals have gradually abandoned the Champs-Elysees over concerns that it is too noisy, dirty and expensive, with luxury brands replacing smaller, independent shops. But that could change if a committee, eager to make the Champs-Elysees attractive to Parisians again, can make its voice heard. After five years of work the “Champs-Elysees Committee”, endowed with a budget of €5mil (RM25.5mil), recently listed 150 proposals including adding green spaces, reducing pollution, and organising cultural events to “revive” the famed avenue. The starting point for the Champs-Elysees Committee, an association of business and culture representatives, was the “alarming” realisation that the world-famous street was “no longer loved, no longer likeable, deserted by Parisians, and feared by foreigners”, reads the committee’s report. “Everyone was fleeing,” they wrote. A giant open-air picnic held on the avenue at the weekend was an example of how the committee plans to address the issue. “It’s a way of telling Parisians: Come back to the Champs-Elysees,” committee chairman Marc-Antoine Jamet said. With stores and historic cinemas closing along the avenue due to rising rents and falling sales, “innovation is an absolute necessity”, he said. The 1,800-page plan seeks to reverse the decline while balancing the needs of locals and tourists. The committee estimates the cost will be €250mil (RM1.275bil), but Jamet said the additional tax revenue generated by the changes would be enough to finance all or some of the project. “These are not costs but investments.” A self-proclaimed Paris “superfan” who has visited from Pakistan 22 times, 33-year-old Jawwad Channa said he always visits the Champs-Elysees, this time bringing along four friends looking forward to hitting the stores. “It’s very crowded, but the shopping is amazing,” said his friend Ali Syed, 32. Shopping will remain a mainstay, but central to the committee’s plan is adapting the avenue to global warming and reducing its carbon footprint by a third over 50 years, with plans to reduce traffic by increasing pedestrian space and doubling bike lanes. The committee also aims to lower the avenue’s average temperature by 1°C to 7°C, creating a “climate sanctuary” during the city’s increasingly common heatwaves. Proposals include planting 160 trees, installing seating and fountains, and transforming 20ha of unkempt gardens into a “true Parisian park”. Symphony concerts, a “quality” Christmas market and flower stalls are also part of a push for “year-round” cultural offerings to “revamp the neighbourhood”. Sunday’s picnic, at which thousands turned out on the “world’s largest tablecloth”, came after an event last year when France’s brainiest bookworms battled it out in a mass spelling test at 1,779 desks set out along the avenue. With France’s presidential palace and National Assembly nearby, security remains a concern, though the proposal includes plans to increase the police presence and establish a 24-hour “health and safety” watch. “We are going to discuss this with all partners,” said Paris’s deputy mayor Emmanuel Gregoire, adding that discussions would first take place with the police. “The idea is Paris’s mayor could announce a broad outline in the second half of 2024,” Gregoire said. Gabin Contentin, 21, said big changes were needed for him and other locals to be lured back. But if all goes well, he predicted, the Champs-Elysees can “once again be the most beautiful avenue in the world”. – AFP Relaxnews

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2024-06-19 00:00:00

Europe,Paris,Champs-Elysees,Arc de Triomphe,National Assembly,France,Tourists,Parisians,Picnic,Park,Symphony,Concerts

French authorities want more local Parisians to hang out in tourist-heavy areas in the city.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/19/paris-revamps-tourist-landmark-to-attract-locals

Singer Justin Timberlake arrested for drunken driving

When stopped by police, Justin Timberlake's eyes 'were bloodshot and glassy, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath, he was unable to divide attention, he was unsteady afoot and performed poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests,' documents said. Photo: AFP Pop singer Justin Timberlake was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after failing to obey a stop sign and twice veering from his lane in the upscale Hamptons seaside area of New York, authorities said on Tuesday. Timberlake was arrested on Long Island in the town of Sag Harbor on Tuesday morning, according to a statement from the local district attorney's office. The 43-year-old was arraigned in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court and released, the statement said. His next court date will be a virtual appearance on July 26, the statement said. According to court documents, police spotted Timberlake driving a 2025 gray BMW shortly after midnight. The documents said Timberlake failed to stop at a stop sign and twice failed to keep to the right side of the road. When stopped by police, Timberlake's eyes "were bloodshot and glassy, a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath, he was unable to divide attention, he was unsteady afoot and performed poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests," the documents said. Representatives for Timberlake did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The singer's attorney, Ed Burke, told Us Weekly that the charge was a single count because he refused the breath test." "Mr. Timberlake was also charged with two other court citations, running a stop sign and not traveling in the correct traffic lane," Burke told the outlet. People magazine reported that Timberlake was taken into custody after he left a dinner at the American Hotel. Timberlake rose to fame as a member of 1990s boy band 'N Sync before starting a solo career. His hits include Can't Stop The Feeling!, Suit & Tie and SexyBack. In 2004, Timberlake infamously ripped off part of Janet Jackson's garment during their Super Bowl halftime show in Houston and briefly bared her breast in what was blamed on a "wardrobe malfunction." He returned to headline the Super Bowl halftime show in 2018. The singer currently is in the middle of his Everything I Thought It Was Tour. He has two concerts scheduled in Chicago this weekend and two shows in New York City next week. – Reuters

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2024-06-19 00:00:00

Timberlake was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated after failing to obey a stop sign and twice veering from his lane in the upscale Hamptons seaside area of New York, authorities said on Tuesday.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/19/singer-justin-timberlake-arrested-for-drunken-driving

Fans say they can't recognise HK star Moses Chan in anniversary photo with wife Aimee

Hong Kong stars Moses Chan and Aimee Chan celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary on June 11. The celebrity couple, who went to Seoul last year for a vacation, decided to visit the capital of South Korea again as they loved their time there. To commemorate their anniversary in Seoul, Moses and Aimee booked themselves a photo session... not just any kind but a K-style portrait shot. Aimee, 43, shared two photos on her social media account with the caption: "I'll always love you. Happy Anniversary, my dearest." Netizens have a lot to say about the two photos of the power couple wearing matching white-and-khaki outfits, one gazing into each other lovingly and another looking into the camera. Most of the comments are directed at Moses, 53, who looks different in the photos after being given the "K-treatment" with fairer skin, "Oppa" hairstyle, lighter brows and a clean-shaven look. Quite a contrast to the Moses his fans are familiar with. Will the real Moses Chan please stand up? Photos: Aimee Chan/Instagram, Moses Chan/Instagram Comments such as "Moses looks weird", "I really can't recognise him", "Strange look" are left on Aimee's Instagram. "Honestly speaking, the editing is overdone," said one fan. "Happy anniversary! But the Korean style photography a bit weird," added another. "Super cute and blessed anniversary but I giggle a little looking at how different your husband look," a netizen commented. But if it is the K-drama look they are going for, then Moses and Aimee did get what they want as one fan summed it up: "You both look so Korean suddenly." Earlier this year, Moses hit a career high when he won the Best Actor gong at the 2023 TVB Anniversary Awards. It is the actor's first win in 16 years; he last won the Best Actor award in 2007. One of the most beloved actors in TVB, Moses has been with the Hong Kong broadcaster for the past 23 years. In 2013, he married Aimee who is a former Miss Hong Kong and fellow TVB colleague. The couple have two sons and one daughter.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Netizens have a lot to say about the actor's 'K-drama' transformation.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/17/fans-says-they-can039t-recognise-hk-star-moses-chan-in-anniversary-photo-with-wife-aimee

HK actress Claire Yiu reveals she's been divorced for several years

Hong Kong actress Claire Yiu has announced her divorce from entrepreneur Thomas Lam Cho Fai after almost two decades of marriage, China Press reported. In a recent interview with Hong Kong media, the TVB star revealed that she has been single for several years but clarified that no third party was involved in their separation. Despite the divorce, Yiu, 45, said she still considers Lam, 60, as family and would continue to co-parent their two children together. Lam, who’s a former ATV actor, confirmed that he and Yiu have been divorced for some time but emphasised that they still maintain a good relationship. When asked about the reason for the divorce, Lam declined to share much, saying: “I don’t want to comment on personal matters. “There’s nothing that can be done when a couple can’t continue together. The most important thing is to move forward,” he said. Yiu and Lam, who tied the knot in 2006, have two children together – Kyra, 15, and Kyros, 12. The former couple were heavily involved in the children’s clothing business in their earlier years and have introduced several major brands to Hong Kong.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

The 45-year-old says she still sees her ex-husband as family and would continue to co-parent their two children together.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/hk-actress-claire-yu-reveals-she039s-been-divorced-for-several-years

Milan Fashion Week Men's seeks reassurance in nostalgia and artisanal craft

Amid ongoing wars, hardening political divides and accelerating climate change, Milan designers made a play for escapism on the second day Saturday (June 15) of Milan Fashion Week, mostly menswear previews for Spring/Summer 2025. Many took inspiration from decades that now seem more reassuring, when the future brimmed with possibility. That future is now, and reality has hit. The message of climate change has penetrated the style studios: Men are offered thigh-baring shorts, open-weave tops and shoes, and inventive construction that permits ventilation on demand. Despite the seriousness of it all, fashion houses seemed to be saying: "Have fun.” The missing ingredient: exuberance. Dolce & Gabbana’s collection for next summer was as smooth as a saxophone solo on the runway soundtrack. Loose silhouettes and artisanal weaving spelled summer ease. Designers Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana created looks for the toniest Italian seaside destinations, from the Amalfi Coast to the Venetian Lido and Liguria’s Portofino. The designers said in notes they took inspiration from "Italy’s golden period”, of the 1950s, epitomised by Marcello Mastroianni. The runway star this season were the weaves: woven raffia jackets, shirts and tunics in summer shades of tan-and-black, echoed in the footwear and bags, that played well against pretty scalloped crocheted knitwear and leather weaves. The silhouette had a strong supporting role, harkening to a bygone era with ample pleated trousers rolled to a casual cuff. Boxy tops balanced with shorter shorts. Bold diagonal stripes hit a nostalgic chord. Read more: How fashion houses are inspired by heritage for their Cruise 2025 collections Clean linens and suedes maintained the collection’s quiet tones, broken up by occasional bursts of coral beading and sequins. The nature-inspired colour palette included soothing juxtapositions of eggplant and wine, forest green and olive. Models strolled through a path created by six spinning mirrored pillars offering a kaleidoscopic view of a Fendi’s menswear collection that waxed nostalgic with mixed plaids, stripes and geometric prints. The menswear silhouette by artistic director Silvia Venturini Fendi spoke to a yesteryear when shirts-and-ties were de rigueur, but not only. The bygone staples were updated with oversized shirts sticking out beneath light-weight bombers, paired with straight trousers or Bermuda shorts. Garment architectures gave an inventive edge, in asymmetric knitwear that buttoned down the shoulder for a peek-a-boo effect, or sleeves that slashed open at the elbow to convert from long to short, warm to cool. Broad diagonal stripes on plaid recalled the 1970s, while a new, invented Fendi crest repeated for a geometric print. The soothing colour palette of khaki, lime and sand, with pops of peach, provided monochrome palate cleansers from the busy patterns. Leather slip-on footwear or paneled sneakers finished the looks, accessorised with soft shoppers or a tidy patchwork bag made from leather cutoffs from Fendi workshops. The runway show this season moved from the brand’s intimate showroom to a new 7,000sqm (75,000sqft) space that show notes say has been recognized for its energy and environmental design. Despite the change in locale, hundreds of screaming, eager K-pop fans managed the trek to greet artistes like Stray Kids’ Bang Chan. Wild horses galloped on a video playing above the Emporio Armani runway, for a Spring/Summer 2025 collection meant to convey freedom. Everything about the collection was organic: the colours, the soft silhouette and the natural stone necklaces worn against bare chests. Pleated trousers gave movement to the looks, worn with silky blousons open to the waist, net tops or belted suit jackets. Woven cowboy hats completed the mood, along with sure-footed moccasins or boots. "This collection takes the Emporio Armani man out of his usual metropolitan habitat,” the show notes said, "Leading him on horseback across sunny rises, expanses of lavender and wheat fields stretching into the distance, pervaded by a sense of overwhelming independence.” Shades of sage, wheat, mustard and ochre fade into the landscape. Only at the end do vibrant colours emerge: lavender and bougainvillea pink, worn against forest green. To close the show, Armani sent out bare-chested models in leather shorts carrying sacks of fragrant lavender, accompanied by well-heeled women in big brim hats and flowing chiffon or silk dresses. The crowd erupted in applause. Read more: Double-breasted suit jackets are having a fashion moment on the red carpet Armani, who turns 90 next month, took a bow flanked by his long-time partner Leo Dell’Orco and his niece Silvana Armani. MSGM brand founder Massimo Giorgetti woke up the fashion crowd with loud bursts of paintballs splattering colours on glass walls, his way of spreading positive energy. As his brand celebrates 15 years, Giorgetti said the new collection – Spring/Summer 2025 for men, Resort 2025 for women – aims "to ask everyone to reflect on now and look to a new horizon, hoping that it will be better than today”. The collection projects optimism with bold stripes, big collars, daisy prints, intarsia knitwear and playful illustrations by British artist Luke Edward Hall. The looks are youthful, with full short skirts and mariner T-shirts for her, or a knit vest with a sun sail and sea motifs worn with khakis for him. But there is also a sophistication, for example, in a long knit dress accented by a yellow wave down the side, or a bright red suit made youthful with a peek of colourful boxer waistband. "It is not an easy moment,’’ Giorgetti said. "I really hope this collection is an escape.” – AP

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

fashion,trends,runway,fashion weeks,menswear,Milan Fashion Week,Spring/Summer 2025

Amid ongoing wars, hardening political divides and accelerating climate change, Milan designers made a play for escapism with their Spring/Summer 2025 collections.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/18/milan-fashion-week-men039s-seeks-reassurance-in-nostalgia-and-artisanal-craft

Malaysian video artist highlights his medium's societal, cultural impact

To kick off its 40th anniversary, Five Arts Centre is presenting a contemporary “wayang pacak” experience with multidisciplinary artist Gan Siong King’s My Video Making Practice (MVMP) opening on June 20. This unique “mash-up video” event will take place at the long-standing arts collective’s indoor venue at the GMBB creative mall in Kuala Lumpur. The programme, tied to the video screening, will also engage both the arts community and the public, offering an innovative and collaborative experience. “As a project, MVMP is actually a screening plus a dialogue. It is not just a video essay, and it doesn’t work if it’s only a screening. The video essay serves as a catalyst for the post-screening dialogues. The video and dialogue cannot be separated,” says Gan, 49, a painter and video artist, in a recent interview. “MVMP is my attempt at community engagement. It’s a project that is actively looking for a collaborating host to reach different communities,” he adds. In MVMP (83 minutes), Gan expands his research-driven practice by remixing seven videos of Malaysian artists at work from the past decade. By combining these with his personal materials and memories, he critically and humourously reflects on the pleasures and pressures of making art in Malaysia and growing up in the 1990s. His video essay works include contemporary Chinese calligrapher Ong Chia Koon, graphic designer and cycling activist Jeffrey Lim, electric guitar amplifier maker Nik Shazwan, the team behind filmmaker Liew Seng Tat’s 2007 feature film Flower In The Pocket, and indie musician Takahara Suiko. Together, these essays offer intimate insights into the artists’ work, lives, and motivations, highlighting different creative directions, while not forgetting to entertain the viewer. The post-screening dialogue at Five Arts Centre will feature a different arts practitioners each night. ‘A career in the arts is no longer a fool’s errand. Everyone has become a brand,’ says Gan. Photo: Chuah Chong Yong This Thursday, the dialogue session begins with producer/director Mark Teh; June 21 features filmmakers Rahmah Pauzi and Chloe Yap; June 22: Five Arts Centre members Faiq Syazwan Kuhiri, Lee Ren Xin and Syamsul Azhar; June 23: curator and educator Roopesh Sitharan; June 27: Five Arts Centre members Janet Pillai and Marion D’ Cruz; June 28: art curator Beverly Yong; June 29: filmmaker Sharifah Aleysha, theatre practitioner Ali Alasri and Yangon-based curator Diane Hwte; and finally, June 30: Singaporean visual artist Yeo Tze Yang. “The dialogue component can range from the technical to the philosophical side of art and art-making. And I work with the host to decide on a specific topic of discussion that is meaningful for the host’s community. Basically, they have a big say in what the focus should be. They are equal partners,” says Gan. “Put simply, I make the art, they do the staging. MVMP x Five Arts has (a personal record of) eight dialogues. These dialogues are programmed mainly by Mark Teh, a member of Five Arts, and my former frequent collaborator. So, you can expect a Five Arts spin, which I welcome, especially because 2024 is the collective’s 40th anniversary,” he adds. From a Five Arts Centre standpoint, MVMP resonates very much with its programme this year of artists opening up their practice and methodologies, and engaging in dialogue with fellow arts practitioners. "As far as starting off Five Arts' programme this year with MVMP - it's really more serendipity than anything else. The collective tends to be quite atypical in how we mark major anniversaries. We're quite resistant to the sentimentalist 'greatest hits' retrospective typical of such milestones," says Teh. "At a time when there are more productions than ever before in the Klang Valley, we felt it was important to focus this year on sharing, exploring and highlighting art-making processes instead," he adds. While Gan thrives behind the camera or in solitary artistic pursuits, his ability to engage and captivate audiences through public speaking is equally impressive. In early 2022, he presented his “video exhibition” titled All the Time I Pray To Buddha, I Keep On Killing Mosquitoes, which featured insightful dialogue sessions. The well-received pandemic-era exhibition at PJPAC, supported by Japan Foundation, KL, featured Gan’s residency series in Yokohama, and also a love letter to Tokyo. Talking video art Gan, who has been making videos since 2009, remembers working on his first few Five Arts Centre projects nearly 30 years ago. “Technically, I became an artist when I graduated with a diploma in fine arts, majoring in oil painting from Malaysia Institute of Arts (in 1996). Or I should say, I learned how to make art there. But being an artist is something that involves the community and is a role or identity that’s constantly evolving,” says Gan. From the start, his career wasn’t strictly art gallery-based. Instead, it included theatre- based works, community engagement initiatives and writing. The ideas behind MVMP can be linked back to some of those early projects at Five Arts, reflecting similar aspirations and inspirations. “A part of my practice has been shaped by and benefited from my work on those Five Arts projects,” Gan reflects, reminiscing about the friendships he has forged in the Malaysian arts and culture scene over the years. “Technicalities aside, there’s also an emotional dimension that is hard to describe. My last project with Five Arts was 20 years ago. So, enough time has passed. Yet, certain ideals and aspirations remain. Working on something together again feels like meeting an old friend. So, there is much to say,” he says. Gan's return to showcase his works is especially meaningful, given his contributions to the history of Five Arts Centre. "Gan worked with Five Arts Centre several times over the years, particularly between the late 1990s to the mid-2000s, and there is excitement to reconnect with him and his practice via MVMP," says Teh. MVMP has been showcased in Singapore and Bandung (Indonesia), but to date, it has only been presented in Malaysia to limited audiences at the SeaShorts Festival 2022 at Multimedia University, as well as at Sunway University. From previous screenings of MVMP, Gan noted that audience feedback, both local and regional, resonated deeply. Questions arose about sustaining a career in the arts and the categorisation of artists like Gan himself. Gan (centre) discussing his 'My Video Making Practice' project with an audience at the Singapore Art Museum in early 2022. Photo: Singapore Art Museum “People are generally curious about how MVMP is put together. I think it’s because MVMP looks and sounds fairly complex, although it’s not. People are also curious about what I’ll be making next which is a welcome question because it denotes interest in process or the long view which I think is important in art appreciation. “There are also many discussions about how to sustain a creative practice. A career in the arts is no longer a fool’s errand. Everyone has become a brand. In that sense, MVMP can be seen as a very elaborate business card." To Gan, there is less space to make “useful mistakes” in the arts world these days. The discussion about strategies on navigating the push and pull between commerce and creativity is also common. “But there’s also confusion and puzzlement. What is this? Is MVMP a documentary, video art or experimental film? And what are you? An artist, video artist or filmmaker? Which is always something fun to discuss because so much of our perception of reality is based on convenient classifications or visual cues,” says Gan. “But these classifications are not precise although they work in most situations. Unpacking these visual cues can reveal our biases and blind spots. A big part of MVMP is to serve as a catalyst for these unpacking,” he adds. Between two mediums Gan seamlessly manages both painting, typically a lone pursuit, and video-making, known for its collaborative nature, without any compromises when asked about the differences between the two. “My paintings and videos are counterpoint to each other in my practice. I don’t think one can exist without the other. They serve different purposes and have different functions,” says the artist, born in Segamat, Johor, who preferred BMX bikes and sports, notably tennis, during his teenage years. "The arch from a beautifully executed single-handed backhand, cross-court passing shot with just the right amount of topspin was more important to me than the quality of a hand drawn line. I wanted to be (tennis player) Stefan Edberg,” recalls Gan. A scene from Gan’s video essay, featuring contemporary Chinese calligrapher Ong Chia Koon. Photo: Chuah Chong Yong Interestingly, his last painting exhibition in KL last year, titled Pictures Of Things, saw him reconnecting with grids and lines. In contrast, Gan's videos have consistently involved collaborations with a diverse array of individuals. “My paintings are reserved mainly for ideas and concepts. It’s something I do when I want to be alone with my thoughts. It’s appealing to a side of my personality. They reference slightly different sources and require the audience to have a different visual vocabulary. "I have no qualms selling them. In fact, the sales of my paintings have been funding my video-making,” he says. The screening of MVMP at Five Arts Centre, known for its commitment to cultural representation, authenticity, and inclusivity in addressing the Malaysian identity, provides the ideal platform for Gan to showcase the breadth of his video work. “They (his collaborators) are often foreground stories not concepts. There’s also a more evident sense of place. They are Malaysian pictures. "Part of the appeal is being outside with others, negotiating and improvising so it does require a desire to engage because it’s about finding overlaps in perspectives or meaningful differences with others. I suppose, it’s a way to locate myself in this place we call home,” he concludes.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

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Gan Siong King, a video artist, presents his 'My Video Making Practice' series to a wider audience at Five Arts Centre in Kuala Lumpur

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/18/malaysian-video-artist-highlights-his-medium039s-societal-cultural-impact

Singer Moby says his job now is animal rights, not music

Moby (pic) is touring Europe for the first time in more than a decade and donating all the proceeds from his concerts to animal rights, which he says has become his real job. There is no doubting the electro star's commitment -- the words "ANIMAL" and "RIGHTS" are tattooed in huge letters up his arms and "Vegan for Life" on the side of his neck. "I've been vegan for 37 years," he told AFP. "Working on behalf of animal rights is my life's purpose. "I don't think of music as my job any more. Music has become a joyful, calm refuge." Moby, real name Richard Melville Hall, made an era-defining record 25 years ago in Play and has sold more than 20 million records worldwide. Now 58, he is returning to Europe for seven dates, with the money divided between eight or nine animal rights and climate organisations. The names are due to be announced in the coming weeks. Moby says he is dedicated to playing the hits -- mostly from Play and 18. "It's what the audience is paying to hear. When I go see my favourite bands, it's very sad when they don't play the songs I know and love. It seems selfish to me," he said. He takes issue with Radiohead, who famously refuse to play its biggest hit, Creep. "That's a great song. People like it. If you can make someone happy, why not play it?" That attitude comes from clear memories of his scrappy start in punk bands around New York. "I remember one show in a Chinese restaurant and there were four people in the band and two people in the audience... I never expected to have music that people knew or liked." Most of his time these days is spent lobbying politicians on behalf of animals. There are many well-intentioned people in the current government in Washington, he said, but in an election year they are terrified of doing anything that can help Donald Trump win. "Donald Trump is a true sociopath. He famously hates animals. His ex-wife says she brought home a dog and he threatened to kill it. "He hates animals because they can't do anything for him," he said. Moby dates his veganism back to his troubled childhood -- his father's drink-driving death, being sexually abused as a young child, his shame at growing up poor. "I learned from an early age not to trust humans, whereas animals were very predictable," he said. There was a time when he would get even more directly involved, visiting animals as they were being taken to the slaughterhouse -- "bearing witness", offering moments of kindness before their deaths. He says the meat companies got round them by shifting their animal deliveries to the middle of the night. "Very few people are willing to get up at 2.30am to drive across town and be one of three people standing in the freezing cold. They won that round." Now he tries to approach his activism "in a very strategic way". "It involves working in politics, philanthropy, venture capital for young vegan companies, media," he said. "I try to identify all the things that are moving the needle away from the status quo and figure out how I can help them." – AFP

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2024-06-12 00:00:00

Moby, real name Richard Melville Hall, made an era-defining record 25 years ago in 'Play' and has sold more than 20 million records worldwide.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/12/singer-moby-says-his-job-now-is-animal-rights-not-music

These dads always find a way to make travelling fun for their little ones

Often, we hear of dads who travel for work. They kiss their kids goodbye, they jet off, they return; rinse and repeat. But what about dads who travel – with their kids in tow? By that we mean either fathers who’ve made travelling their job and could bring their family along for the ride, or fathers who carve out time to travel often with their little ones. In celebration of Fathers Day, let’s take a look at dads who have made it their mission to make travel fun for the whole family. But before that, a brief history lesson: 1910 was the year that Fathers Day was held for the first time in the United States, where the “holiday” originated. It was held on June 19, specifically, as proposed by Sonora Smart Dodd who originally wanted it to fall on her father’s birthday (June 5) but postponed it to allow more time for preparation. Dodd, who was inspired by a sermon about Anna Jarvis’ effort of establishing Mothers Day, suggested a Fathers Day celebration to her pastor because she wanted to honour her own dad, a single parent who raised her and her siblings. It took decades, but finally Fathers Day was officially recognised in 1972 as a national holiday by then US president Richard M. Nixon. After that, Fathers Day was celebrated in other countries too. In Malaysia, we also dedicate the third Sunday of June to celebrate our fathers. This year it falls on June 16. Here are several dads who prove that travelling with kids is awesome (and doable). Eric Stoen (@travelbabbo) A decade ago, Eric Stoen decided to quit his job in healthcare to focus on his blog, Travel Babbo. A good decision, judging by the various accolades the California-based dad has amassed since, including being named the World’s #4 Travel Influencer in 2017 by CNN/Forbes. Regarding the blog’s name, which is also the handle of his social media channels, it was an award he won prior to becoming a full-time “travel dad” that inspired it. Having won the Photo Of The Year contest by Conde Nast Traveller in 2012, Stoen and his family were awarded with a two-week trip to Florence, Italy where his kids picked up the word “babbo”, meaning “dad”, and began addressing him by it. (Funnily enough, in certain parts of Italy the word also means “idiot”.) Hoping to encourage other parents to take their kids travelling, Stoen has been actively documenting his family’s adventures for the past 10 years. His travel list spans 30 years, however, as he started travelling even before he was a family man. Of the 100-plus countries he’s been to across all seven continents, over half were with his children – who are now aged 18, 16, and 14. Their destinations included places like Fiji, Laos, and the Antarctica. Bayes (far right) travels the world with his wife and four kids. – SHAUN BAYES/Instagram Shaun Bayes (@travelmaddad) Even when his firstborn, Esme, was only a baby, Shaun Bayes was already taking her backpacking throughout Asia. He and his wife, Karen, took her on the trip during Karen’s maternity leave that lasted a year. Another year-long maternity leave following the birth of their second child, Quinn, allowed the then-family of four to embark on a road trip from Canada to Argentina. Bayes’ job as a London-based builder who flipped houses at the time, and his wife’s job in healthcare, gave the couple the flexibility to do these long travels. Having moved from London to Abu Dhabi for Karen’s job during the pandemic – at which time they also welcomed twins Fionn and Fern – and then later relocating to Sri Lanka, the Bayes family continue to travel every chance they get. From Switzerland and New Zealand (his homeland) to India and South Korea, Bayes loves sharing the many fun adventures that he has with his little family via photos and reels on his Instagram, Travel Mad Dad. A blog and a YouTube channel, both named Travel Mad Mum, serve as the counterpart to it, where he and his wife also share tips on making travelling with kids easier. Ng and his son visited Mount Fuji in Japan recently. – JASON NG/Instagram Jason Ng (@daddy.xj) As indicated on his social media pages, Singapore-based Jason Ng goes on worldwide adventures with his six-year-old son Zash. Young Zash has stepped foot in countries like Australia, Thailand, Malaysia and Japan during their travels in the past two years. Prior to kicking off their adventures abroad, Ng and his wife would often take little Zash on weekly outings in Singapore – to the museums, parks and other fun places. Ng took Zash on his first proper vacation in 2022, when the little family of three joined a four-day cruise to Kuala Lumpur and Penang. They went to Melbourne in Australia a few months later to experience the vibrant culture of the city, where Ng brought Zash to various interesting landmarks, including San Remo, Churchill Island and Phillip Island. The family visited Perth (Australia) the following year, but before that, they made a short trip to Bangkok, Thailand, where they went on a river cruise and checked out the floating market. Recently, Ng took Zash to Japan, where they went to Mount Fuji and the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. The father-and-son duo also conquered all the rides at the theme park, Universal Studios Japan, in Osaka. Chen took his family, including little Lyra, on a road trip in New Zealand. — TIAN CHAD CHEN/Instagram Tian Chad Chen (@tianchad) In an effort to expose Malaysia’s diverse culture to his three-year-old daughter Lyra, Tian Chad Chen has been taking her on adventures across the nation. The content creator and photographer has taken his daughter to places like Melaka, and Cameron Highlands, Cherating and Genting Highlands in Pahang. In fact, their first trip together two years ago was to Genting Highlands. For Cameron Highlands, he described their trip as a “sweet” experience. Wanting to discover and share the local gems with little Lyra, Chen had taken her to visit the Strawberry Farm and Floral Park there. The adventurous father hopes to go on at least one international trip with his little girl every year. Last year, Chen and his family travelled to New Zealand, where they embarked on a road trip from the North Island to the South Island. During the 10-hour flight from KL to Auckland, Chen was able to keep Lyra’s boredom at bay with some colouring books and lots of snacks. He shares useful tips such as these on his Instagram, too.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

Global,fathers day,father's day,tourism,travelling,travelling dads,fathers,parents,dads,travelling with children,travelling with kids,family,shaun bayes,jason ng,tian chad chen,eric stoen

In celebration of Fathers Day this month, here are some dads who have made it their mission to make travel fun for the whole family.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/these-dads-always-find-a-way-to-make-travelling-fun-for-their-little-ones

'Lord Of The Rings' actor Ian McKellen, 85, hospitalised after falling off stage in London

Actor Ian McKellen was hospitalised Monday after toppling off a London stage during a fight scene in a play. The 85-year-old known for playing Gandalf in the Lord Of The Rings films and many stage roles over a six decade career cried out in pain after the fall, according to a BBC journalist at the theatre. McKellen was playing John Falstaff in Player Kings, a production of Henry IV, parts one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke, at the Noel Coward Theatre. He lost his footing and fell off the stage in a scene with the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy. The tumble startled theatregoers. "Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene,” audience member Paul Critchley told the PA news agency, saying it was a shock. "He picked up momentum as he moved downstage which resulted in him falling off the stage directly in front of the audience." The theatre was evacuated and the play was cancelled as medics treated the actor. McKellen’s career includes playing Magneto in the X-Men films and several Shakespearean characters including Richard II, Macbeth and King Lear. He has won a Tony Award for Amadeus, several Laurence Olivier Awards and has been nominated for two Oscars and several Bafta awards. – AP

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The actor cried out in pain after the fall, according to a BBC journalist at the theatre.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/039lord-of-the-rings039-actor-ian-mckellen-85-hospitalised-after-falling-off-stage-in-london

Amazing record-setting bicycles

Bicycles of dizzying speed, weighing tons, and decadently expensive: Here's a look at not only the variety of bikes, but also the extremes – and entries in the record books: With outside help and a slipstream: 296kph According to the Guinness Book Of Records, the fastest ride on a bicycle ever was by Denise Mueller-Korenek, who achieved a speed of 296kph on her custom-built bicycle in September 2018. She did so not on her own power, but towed by a car in the salt flats of the US state of Utah and then, after the tow rope was disengaged. The mother of three raced along in the slip stream behind the car and reached the speed that a Boeing 747 needs to take off. The 45-year-old US citizen, in what she called a "wild ride", broke the long-time record previously held by a man. Record speed from pure muscle power: 144.17kph Those who go bicycling know that one factor slowing them down is headwind. But despite this, in September 2016, Canadian rider Todd Reichert, cycling slightly downhill on a straight road in the US state of Nevada, hit a speed of 144.17kph. With his streamlined recumbent bike in the shape of an elongated egg, Reichert broke his own Guinness Book record set the previous year. The longest distance covered in one hour: 56.792km Speed champion among men in the "Hour Record" competition is Italian rider Filippo Ganna. In October 2022, the 26-year-old, riding in the Velodrome Suisse track in Grenchen, Switzerland, covered exactly 56.792km. In Mexico in October 2023, his Italian compatriot Vittoria Bussi set the women's record of exactly 50.267km, becoming the first woman ever to break the 50km mark. Both records are officially recognised by the international bicycling federation UCI. Once around the world and even faster than Jules Verne French science fiction author Jules Verne's Around The World In 80 Days triggered the 19th century fantasies about a balloon race around the globe. But faster than that was Scottish adventurer Mark Beaumont, who, starting and ending at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, circled the globe on a bicycle in 78 days, 14 hours and 40 minutes. Jenny Graham at the Brandenburg Gate on her arrival after cycling around the world. She was the first woman to cycle around the world alone in 124 days and 11 hours. The then 34-year-old cycled through 16 countries in covering the 29,000km distance. His feat of spending 16 days in the bicycle saddle earned him a spot in the Guinness Book Of Records. The fastest woman to circle the globe on a bike is Jenny Graham of Britain. In 2018, she accomplished the feat in 124 days and 11 hours. Bicycle sizes: The longest, largest and tiniest The longest ridable bicycle in the world is in Australia. In November 2020, inventor Bernie Ryan covered 100m on a monstrous 47.5m-long bike to gain an entry in the Guinness Book. As to height, the Guinness record was set on the Baltic Sea island of Usedom in October 2012 when German cycling icon Didi Senft rode a bike with a wheel diameter of 3.3m, a total height of 3.7m and a length of 7.8m. On the other extreme, Sergei Dashevsky of Russia secured a Guinness entry in September 2019 for the smallest ridable bike: 8.4cm. Like something out of Mad Max: World's heaviest bike His bicycle seems to be straight out of the Mad Max science fiction series: In June 2022, German scrap metal tinkerer Sebastian Beutler built "Klein Johanna" (Little Johanna) a 5.2m-long-and almost 2m-tall colossus weighing 2.18 tonnes. The world record was confirmed by the Record Institute for Germany, the German-language equivalent of the Guinness Book Of Records. Weighing 2.18 tonnes, the heaviest bicycle was invented by Sebastian Beutler from Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. It took him three years to build. Lance Armstrong's Tour de France bike: Half a million dollars The most expensive bicycle ever sold at auction is one decorated with real butterfly wings. Designed by British artist Damien Hirst, the one-of-a-kind bike changed hands in November 2009 for US$500,000. The reason why someone at Sotheby's in New York would shell out so much money may have to do with the fact that it was the bike that US professional cyclist Lance Armstrong rode in competing in the final stage of the 2009 Tour de France. – dpa/Marc Fleishmann

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

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Here's a look at not only the variety of bikes, but also the extremes – and entries in the record books.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2024/06/18/amazing-record-setting-bicycles

Ahead of the Olympics, fashion week brings another layer of chaos to Paris

Paris Fashion Week returns on Tuesday (June 18), bringing some much-needed light relief to a country in the throes of political chaos. Menswear week runs until next Sunday (June 23), followed immediately by the haute couture shows until June 27. France has been in turmoil since President Emmanuel Macron called surprise legislative elections after a surge by the far-right in European polls. But for fashionistas, the biggest issue might be getting around Paris, which is also finalising preparations to host next month's Olympic Games, with a tenfold increase in traffic congestion due to road and site closures. The Olympics have brought the menswear and couture weeks forward from July (womenswear takes place in September). With fashion already working at a punishing pace, that has forced some houses to abandon this season, including Olivier Rousteing's Balmain, which said it had pulled out at the last minute. Valentino and Givenchy are also skipping this week's shows. Read more: Before the Olympics, there is the fabulous French fashion flex As for the big names who are appearing, hip-hop mogul Pharrell Williams will continue his high-profile leadership at Louis Vuitton, marking a year since his ultra-lavish debut show when he took over the Pont Neuf bridge and painted its paving stones gold. But the highlight will be a mega-party organised by Vogue on Sunday (June 23) bringing together the doubly lucrative worlds of sports and fashion. It is the third edition of Vogue World – a sort of traveling Met Gala that has already seen events in New York and London – and comes as the brand seeks new ways to stay relevant in a world of dwindling magazine sales. Several top brands will display collections, including Dior, Jacquemus, Hermes and Balenciaga, each paired with an Olympic discipline from athletics to breakdancing. Chanel shock There have been some big movements at the heads of fashion houses. The biggest shock was the announcement last week that Chanel has dropped Virginie Viard, who worked for 20 years alongside her predecessor Karl Lagerfeld and took over after his death in 2019. It appears the split was less than amicable, since Viard will not be present for Chanel's couture show on June 25, despite overseeing record sales for the brand last year. "It will be a studio collection and Virginie Viard will not be present," a Chanel spokesperson said. The end of the Lagerfeld era has set off fashionistas' favourite pastime: speculating on who comes next. Read more: Who’s in and who’s out: The latest movements among the big fashion houses Among the names circulating: France's Marine Serre, Hedi Slimane of Celine, Pierpaolo Piccioli (who recently left Valentino) and Simon Porte Jacquemus, whose eponymous label has been one of the big independent success stories of recent years. While Valentino awaits the debut of its high-profile new creative director Alessandro Michele (formerly of Gucci), Givenchy is still looking for a lead designer since the departure of Matthew Williams last year. This week will also see the final show by Belgian designer Dries Van Noten on Saturday (June 22). Though not a household name, the 66-year-old is retiring as a favourite among serious fashion fans for his avant-garde styles and expert tailoring. – AFP

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

fashion,runway,fashion weeks,Paris Fashion Week,Spring/Summer 2025,Olympics,menswear

Paris Fashion Week Men's returns, bringing some much-needed light relief to a country in the throes of political chaos. The city is also finalising preparations to host next month's Olympic Games.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/18/ahead-of-the-olympics-fashion-week-brings-another-layer-of-chaos-to-paris

Making old ways new: Why rainwater harvesting should be a norm in households

WHEN it comes to environmental issues, Gen Z is taking the lead in implementing personal changes to influence habits and consumption. Thanks to accessible information and the physical manifestation of climate crisis brought about by the actions of generations before them, young people are taking a stronger stand when it comes to protecting the planet. Reha Lakshmi Haritharan, 16, a student of SM Sri Aman, Petaling Jaya, says she and her friends are all on the same page when it comes the planet; that planetary health is important and they need to do their best to "heal the world". Reha says young people want to take immediate action to help the Earth recover. — REHA LAKSHMI HARITHARAN "Maybe generations before us don't have as much exposure as we do, but as young people who will inherit the Earth, we need to take immediate action – big and small – to help the Earth recover," she says. As one of the committee members for the 13th Sri Aman Environmental and English Youth Leadership Summit (SAEYLS) , an annual event organised by the school, Reha says the summit, held last month, was about showing students ways in which they can do something positive for the planet. "One of the examples is water conservation. For the longest time, I didn't know why we need to save water beyond saving water bills. It was only after watching a National Geographic documentary a few years ago that I fully understood what water crisis means and why resources have to be saved, not wasted," she says. Tay says rainwater harvesting is a traditional water-saving method that should be revived. Harvesting rainwater One of the activities during the summit was setting up the school's rainwater harvesting system, which the students carried out with staff from Ascott Malaysia. The water will be used for general cleaning and watering of plants. According to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) on its website, this method maximises the use of water while conserving it, limiting the needs for new water supply schemes. "An approach of rainwater harvesting collected from the roof of a building provides the practical and effective utilisation of rainwater; this is appropriate as more than 30% of domestic water use does not require treated water quality." Ascott Kuala Lumpur senior engineering manager Anselm Tay says it's important to educate young people about rainwater harvesting since many don't know what it is and how simple it is to do it. "It's a traditional method that should be revived. When I grew up in Kuching, we always had a container outside the house that stores rainwater; to wash our feet before we come in and to water the plants," he says. "Malaysia has heavy rainfall, it makes no sense to not use this precious resource. Our tap water needs to first be treated before it gets to our homes and that uses energy; but rainwater is free and you can use it for washing cars, watering plants or cleaning the drains around the house," Tay says however, it is important to keep the rainwater container covered so it doesn't become a mosquito breeding ground and doesn't pose a safety hazard. Reha says for a few years, she has been very conscious about her water consumption. "It might not seem like much, but I think if everyone has the same mindset and habit, the change will be substantial." Asha says young people are passionate about the environment because they see firsthand the ways the planet has been mistreated. — ASHA ELIZABETH BERGIN For Asha Elizabeth Bergin, 17, who is SAEYLS 2024 organising chairperson, young people are passionate about the environment because they see firsthand the ways the planet has been mistreated. Asha says she avoids plastic, takes her own cutlery when she eats out and carries her water bottle so she doesn't have to buy bottled water. "I don't litter at all; I keep my rubbish until I find a bin," she says. "And rainwater harvesting is also something most households can do. With some effort, we can repurpose rainwater and reduce the use of treated water. It's a good way to teach ourselves the importance of conserving a natural resource," she concludes.

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According to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), this method maximises the use of water while conserving it, limiting the needs for new water supply schemes.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/18/making-old-ways-new-why-rainwater-harvesting-should-be-a-norm-in-households

These eight essential children’s books help explain mental health to the young

CHILDREN'S brains may expand at an incredible rate as they take in new information and lessons all around them, but they sometimes struggle to verbalise and communicate their emotions. That lack of vocabulary can lead to frustrations, anxieties and, yes, the dreaded meltdown. Luckily, more and more supportive new guides are coming out every day, all designed to provide kids with the tools they need to tackle these challenging emotions. Here is a selection of picture books, short stories and activity workbooks so you can make sure the children in your life have the support they need to flourish and grow into the best version of themselves. The Color Monster by Anna Llenas In this international bestseller, Color Monster wakes up to find himself feeling every sort of emotion at once, his entire appearance is a snarl of scribbles in every colour. Luckily, a patient friend is there to help him go through the colors one at a time, identifying them with the corresponding emotion – red for anger, blue for sadness, yellow for happiness. With all his emotions untangled and sorted, Color Monster is able to identify how he feels – and with his example, so too can young readers. Wrapped in engaging cut-paper illustrations, at its core The Color Monster is a vital tool in teaching children to name their emotions and understand and voice their thoughts and concerns. After all, “even little monsters have big feelings!” Talk to My Brain: CBT Based Stories for Children by Dr Parul Cedilnik Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, or CBT for short, is a tried-and-true psychology method that’s helped countless people find actionable ways to improve their mental health. The question is, how does one teach these sorts of techniques in a way children will find interesting? Dr Parul Cedilnik, a clinical child’s psychologist of over 25 years (and a mum herself!), has the answer. Her short story collection Talk to My Brain features six stories with engaging protagonists and realistic challenges in kids’ day-to-day lives. From Shina’s nerves over her upcoming piano recital to Kevin’s discouragement when he struggles with an assignment, each story is packed full of relatable situations that readers are sure to identify with. Each story is also accompanied by a supplementary discussion guide designed for parents, guardians and educators to go over each lesson and method – providing children with techniques that will aid them in becoming confident, adaptable and self-assured, ready to take on whatever comes their way. Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival Ruby Finds a Worry introduces us to – you guessed it, Ruby and a Worry! At first, the Worry is so small, Ruby thinks it isn’t worth mentioning. But as time goes on, the Worry grows and grows until suddenly it’s all she can see. It’s only when Ruby talks to a fellow worrier that she realises how much it helps to voice her anxiety. Suddenly, that big Worry doesn’t seem quite so scary. As part of the Big Bright Feelings series, this children’s book skillfully depicts the way anxieties can grow and spiral out of control until they seem to take over. But it also shows young readers that sharing our feelings helps us put these worries into perspective, rather than letting them grow unchecked, and gives our loved ones the opportunity to support us. When Harley Has Anxiety: A Fun CBT Skills Activity Book to Help Manage Worries and Fears by Regine Galanti PhD, illustrated by Vicky Lommatzsch Focusing solely on anxiety, this workbook gives kids the tools and vocabulary they need to voice their fears and “be the boss of their brains.” When Harley Has Anxiety uses its lovable and adorable protagonist to guide young readers through coping mechanisms, personal goals and over 45 activities, all meant to help them face their fears. A licensed psychologist with a focus on treating children and teens with anxiety, Dr. Regine Galanti strives to implement CBT techniques throughout Harley’s various activities, all while maintaining a fun and positive outlook. Using these short-term, practical strategies, kids can practise the mindfulness and determination that will help them grow into their more confident, self-assured selves. When Sadness is at Your Door by Eva Eland For young children, a powerful, lingering emotion like sadness can feel overwhelming and hard to manage, and suggestions to “get over it” or to label it as “bad” might make them feel even worse.Thoughtful and empathetic, When Sadness is at Your Door introduces children to the concept of sadness not as a something to be frightened of, but instead a guest and companion that deserves respect.Quiet illustrations model how young readers can sit with their sadness, respecting and listening to what it has to say, before going about activities that might help alleviate it.Viewing sadness as a guest helps readers understand that while the emotion may stick around for a bit, it won’t stay forever. Sometimes I’m Sad: A Child’s Guide to Positive and Negative Thoughts and Feelings by Poppy O’Neill Sometimes, all we need is a little guidance to get on the right track. And when it comes to something like low self-worth, it’s important to curb that behavior early and get kids the support and techniques they need.Luckily, Chip is there for them – a friendly, relatable little creature who is struggling with the same problems as prospective readers. Sometimes I’m Sad gives kids the model they need to work through tips, tricks, positive affirmations and practical information.And with prompts like “positivity scavenger hunt,” “mood tracker” and “room for all my emotions,” Chip and young readers will find the fun in these activities together, all while building up their confidence and self-worth. Balloon Breath by Amanda Given, illustrated by Polina Hrytskova Lonnie the lamb is mad, mad, mad. His brother Curly has been a pain all day, from stealing Lonnie’s blanket to hogging the TV. Luckily, Lonnie’s babysitter Scarlett has just the trick – a balloon breath. “Sit criss cross applesauce,” she tells him. “Take a DEEP breath in. That’s it. Now exhale all the air out.” As Scarlett tells Lonnie to breathe out all his anger and frustration, young readers get a perfect example of how to be in-tune with their emotions and manage their frustration in a healthy way. And as both a child speech pathologist and yoga instructor, author Amanda Given knows what she’s talking about when it comes to guiding kids through relaxation techniques. “I wrote my book to help children and their caregivers manage their big emotions,” she shares. “Lonnie’s always there to remind you to inhale and exhale.” The Calm Workbook: A Kid’s Activity Book for Relaxation and Mindfulness by Imogen Harrison Sometimes, what we all really need is to just chill out, adults and children alike. But while anger, frustration or upset aren’t pleasant to deal with, sometimes those big feelings overwhelm kids until they feel like that’s all they can experience in the moment. In such times of negativity, it can be hard for them to change course and find relaxation and positivity – but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. If you’re looking to teach the way of zen to a child in your life, The Calm Workbook is here to help. Its soothing activity prompts are designed to help children find peace in the wake of powerful emotions, through challenges like creating a power-down routine, or dispelling anxiety through mindful breathing and a listening game. And who knows? Maybe adults can pick up some relaxation techniques along the way, too! – BookTrib.com/Tribune News Service

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

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Children sometimes struggle to verbalise and communicate their emotions, and that lack of vocabulary can lead to frustrations, anxieties and the dreaded meltdown.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/18/these-eight-essential-childrens-books-help-explain-mental-health-to-the-young

HK superstar Andy Lau to stage four shows in KL in October, one date clashes with Jay Chou

Hong Kong superstar Andy Lau will bring his brand new world tour, Today... Is The Day, to Malaysia in October. The Heavenly King is slated to play four nights – Oct 24, 25, 26 and 27 at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur. Meanwhile, Taiwanese Mandopop singer Jay Chou is also scheduled to stage his concert on Oct 26 at Bukit Jalil National Stadium. Talk about a Chinese music extravaganza in KL on Oct 26. But back to Lau. Last month, the 62-year-old singer took to social media to announce this new tour which will kick off in China in July. Accompanying the announcement is a photo of Lau on stage wearing an unbuttoned green suit revealing chiselled abs. Lau is expected to belt his timeless and beloved hits such as Thank You For Your Love, It's Not A Crime For A Man To Cry, Love You Forever and more in this concert. Apart from KL, the tour will also take Lau to Macau, Singapore and his home city, Hong Kong. Tickets for Lau's shows in KL are priced at RM388, RM688, RM988 and RM1,188, and will be available starting July 7 at noon from my.bookmyshow.com. Maybank Visa cardholders have access to priority ticket purchase on July 5 (noon to 7pm). Lau last staged a three-night, sold out concert in KL in 2019.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

The Heavenly King is slated to play four nights – Oct 24, 25, 26 and 27 at the Axiata Arena in Kuala Lumpur.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/hk-superstar-andy-lau-to-stage-four-shows-in-kl-in-october-one-date-clashes-with-jay-chou

Fans may face charges after ‘kissing’ BTS’ Jin: reports

Two fans may be facing sexual assault charges for allegedly non-consensually kissing Jin of BTS at a hug event following his military discharge. In a report by Soompi and KoreaBoo, the Seoul Songpa Police Station confirmed on June 14 that they had received some complaints arising from the incident. “We received the complaint through the National Petition System, but we have not received a formal complaint. We have not booked the suspect yet,” the authorities said, adding that they would further investigate the matter. The day after his military discharge, Jin conducted an in-person event for this year’s BTS Festa where he offered hugs to 1,000 fans to express his gratitude to them for staying by his side during his enlistment. In videos circulating on social media, Jin is seen flustered and quickly turning his face away. In the clips posted online, Jin paused to speak and address the actions of the fans, saying that he understood their excitement but that they had to control themselves. “Guys, I know you like me. But don’t rush into me. How can I say it in English? Don’t attack me, please. Slowly, slowly,” he expressed. Some fans expressed their frustration online following the viral incident. “This made me so upset as someone who is a fan of BTS’s music. I am requesting that those who sexually harassed Jin be fully investigated as per Article 11 of the Sexual Violent Criminal Act,” wrote one fan. Another wrote, “Seriously, what is wrong with her?” “I don’t even want to call her a fan. She crossed a line.” On June 12, Jin was officially released from military service and was welcomed by his fellow bandmates. “I cried during the ceremony,” Jin said in a Weverse live stream later in the day. “But it was so fun for the last year and six months. It’s such a relief that I met so many amazing people.” – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Two fans may be facing sexual assault charges for allegedly non-consensually kissing Jin at a hug event following his military discharge.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/17/fans-may-face-charges-after-kissing-bts-jin-reports

Singapore's new avian attraction is for visitors of all ages

“Old Lady! Come, Old Lady! I’ve got fruits.” Armed with a comb of bananas and full-length clear shields that bear an uncanny resemblance to police riot gear, the keepers took their places around an enclosure at the former Jurong Bird Park in Singapore. Blanketed by the darkness accompanying the 3am hour, it was time to attempt one of the most daunting bird transfers the team had lined up – the park’s two southern cassowaries. Eclipsed only by the ostrich in terms of weight, the flightless cassowary grows as tall as a human and is said to be the most similar bird to the ancient dinosaurs. The Southern cassowary can be found in the Mysterious Papua section. — Mandai Wildlife Group Indeed, the entire make-up of this creature is magnificent; from its midnight black plumage, long neck and bright blue face, right down to the lethal, dagger-like claws on their three-toed feet. Often described (rightly or wrongly) as the most dangerous bird on Earth, a single kick could easily do serious harm to a person, if not worse. But, as the Mandai Wildlife Group keepers have found, they really do like baths. And bananas. Over the prior months, the keepers had used both to conduct crate training on the cassowaries, conditioning the birds to enter the moving boxes on their own to reduce the stress of their relocation. But move they must, for an awe-inspiring, new home awaited in the north of Singapore. Poultry in motion The Jurong Bird Park opened to the public in 1971 as Asia’s largest bird park. Over the next five decades, it expanded its aviaries to welcome dignitaries, visitors and new, exotic birds from all over the world. ‘As a zoo-based conservation organisation, doing all we can to save species from extinction in is our DNA,’ says Dr Neves. — Mandai Wildlife Group From flamingos to penguins, and toucans to Santa Cruz ground doves, the park pushed the envelope in showcasing its conservation endeavours alongside the footfalls, delighting over 40 million visitors who passed through its doors. Around 2015, the Mandai Rejuvenation project was mooted with the aim of establishing an integrated wildlife and nature heritage precinct in Singapore. It would contain the existing Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari in the area along with a new Rainforest Wild adventure park and Bird Paradise – the new home for the inhabitants of the iconic Jurong Bird Park. Mandai Wildlife Group vice president of animal care Dr Luis Carlos Neves says the new bird park would allow for species conservation efforts to be scaled up, building upon the decades of good work done in Jurong. “With over 3,000 individual birds to move, planning for the move took more than a year to strategise for the wide range of bird species, each with differing needs. “The process involved planning the necessary steps, determining the possible risks and actions needed to actively mitigate them, while establishing the best sequence to conduct the move,” he says. The translocation process began on Jan 3, 2023, the 52nd anniversary of the Jurong Bird Park and the very day it bid farewell. Dr Neves says the birds were moved out in phases, starting with the birds in the breeding research centre and off-exhibit breeding facilities, followed by the various aviaries, which went through a pre-determined sequence that coincided with the readiness of the aviaries at Bird Paradise. To say it was a mammoth task would be an understatement. While some birds were cooperative, others required stealth and good-natured cunning on the keepers’ part to make the move successful. There was also the issue of moving unhatched eggs, fledglings and birds with specific environmental needs, like the penguins. Dr Neves says an air-conditioned truck was commissioned for the penguins while the flamingos were transported in groups in a padded truck, instead of being put in individual crates. Though the ride was harrowing for the keepers whose hearts jumped at every turn, the method proved highly successful with zero injuries to the birds. “Larger bird species such as the cassowary was one of the more challenging species to move. Aside from their size, they are also known to be prone to stress under enclosed environments and they are potentially very dangerous animals, so additional layers of safety for both birds and caretakers needed to be in place,” Dr Neves said. The extensive work on crate training (and the lure of bananas) paid off in the end, with Old Lady coming close enough to be gently encouraged into the moving box. The second, younger cassowary proved more jumpy, darting from one end of the enclosure to another, but was also successfully guided into a waiting crate. Both birds are now well settled and can be seen at Bird Paradise. Part of the flock A fully immersive experience was the goal in building the new Bird Paradise. Putting it simply, as a Mandai Wildlife Group guide did on one of the tours, instead of being on the outside, looking in on the birds, the new park aimed at putting visitors inside, with the birds. From eight walk-through aviaries to choose from and an additional two zones, namely the Penguin Cove and Winged Sanctuary, exploring Bird Paradise will take you the whole day, if not more. The normal route patrons take at the park begins at the Rwanda Nyungwe Forest Heart Of Africa, to the right of the entrance. Inspired by the continent’s forest valleys, this aviary is the largest in the park, spanning 1.55ha and is designed around an elevated canopy experience complete with suspension bridges and a viewing tower. A fluffy American flamingo chick among its flock at the Hong Leong Foundation Crimson Wetlands in Bird Paradise. — Mandai Wildlife Group Here, the colourful turacos congregate, showing off their brilliant blues, greens and purples and their groovy, mohawk-looking crests. After that, it’s a hop and a step over to the Kuok Group Wings Of Asia. Sporting bamboo trees and sloping rice terraces, this aviary pays homage to the diverse habitats of South-East Asia, giving threatened species like the black-faced spoonbills and Baer’s pochard a place to shine. The Central Plaza can be seen here, along with Egg Splash, representing the dry and wet play areas for children that the park has to offer. Beyond that is the Sky Amphitheatre and at the topmost tip of the park, the glorious Hong Leong Foundation Crimson Wetlands. Entering this enclosure will take your breath away as dozens of pink American flamingos amble along a river with a roaring waterfall emerging in the background. Almost close enough to touch, visitors to this aviary could be content with feasting their eyes on these long-legged birds alone, until they catch flashes of brilliant red from the scarlet ibis. A total of 40 species hailing from the South American wetlands, including several of the ever-popular macaw, live side-by-side in this aviary that also holds keeper talks every day at noon. Turning back to the direction of the entrance, the Amazonian Jewels and Songs Of The Forest aviaries are next. The former seeks to mimic a scene from the rainforests of South Africa, featuring a majestic buttress root plant, easily recognisable by its huge, visible roots spreading in every direction. The latter, on the other hand, features gentle streams and large overhanging canopies in an ode to the forests of South-East Asia. The popular Lory Loft enclosure lies next door, located close to the shuttle station where visitors can ride up from the park entrance. Lory Loft inherited its name from its beloved predecessor at the Jurong Bird Park. Here, the monsoon forest of Irian Jaya whispers through the leaves as sociable lories soar from branch to branch and confident parrots fly so close, they sometimes brush the heads of awestruck visitors. The Mysterious Papua is next on the list and although smaller than some of the other aviaries, it can hold its own in the noise department as a bevy of cockatoos calls this place home. This exhibit also, of course, houses the two impressive Southern cassowaries transported safely from the Jurong Bird Park in the dead of the night. Rounding off the aviaries is the Shaw Foundation Australian Outback where towering rock structures provide the perfect backdrop to get up close to the furry kookaburra with its iconic laugh. And right beside the entrance are the final areas of the park to explore. One is the Winged Sanctuary that houses more than 100 species of birds and highlights rare and predatory species of high conservation value as well as various bird-of-paradise species. This area in particular showcases the conservation work done by the park along with its outreach and education projects. And last but definitely not least is the Ocean Network Express Penguin Cove, a favourite among younger visitors. Consisting of two levels, visitors can watch the penguins lounging and waddling about on “ground” level on the upper storey, before following their dives down to the depths of the cold saltwater enclosure seen from the bottom storey. It is a truly magical experience, framed by the soft lights that copy the Aurora Australis. Eggs-pert care The size of Bird Paradise is impressive and all of the aviaries open to the public are open-air, walk-through enclosures. Under the Singapore sun, however, things may get rather hot so each exhibit is accompanied by an interactive, air-conditioned rest stop that also allows visitors to read about the history and characteristics of the birds in the aviary. A young visitor making a salad for a scarlet macaw after a guided tour. Visits to Bird Paradise would also not be complete without taking in at least one of the two animal presentations on show everyday. Be it Predators On Wings or Wings Of The World, these 20-minute shows delight viewers at the Sky Amphitheatre and go far in raising awareness on the threats and dangers faced by birds all over the globe. “Of the 400 species here, about 24% of species are threatened and the park’s conservation efforts focus on hornbills, Asian songbirds and pigeon species from the Indo-Pacific region. Bird Paradise holds the largest hornbill living genetic reserve under a single zoological park as well as participates internationally coordinated breeding programmes. “As a zoo-based conservation organisation, doing all we can to save species from extinction is in our DNA,” Dr Neves says. He adds that the move to the bigger and enhanced facilities at Bird Paradise also allowed the establishment to grow its capacities for species breeding programmes and develop targeted programmes for threatened species like the crestless fireback and Negros bleeding-heart, named for the splash of red across its white breast. Aside from that, Bird Paradise offers a guided Bird Discovery Tour and Backstage Pass (Avian Healthcare) where visitors get to go behind the scenes to the avian hospital and breeding centre. But everyone must do their part, so don’t be surprised if you get put to work at the end and tasked with making lunch for a scarlet macaw. After opening its doors on May 8 last year in a soft launch, Bird Paradise has welcomed over 600,000 visitors in the following six months. With promotions linking the park to its sister establishments in the area and more developments expected through to 2025, the sky is indeed the limit.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

Asia & Oceania,Singapore,Bird Discovery Tour,Mandai Wildlife Group,Lory Loft,Jurong Bird Park,Singapore Zoo,Penguin Cove,Rwanda Nyungwe Forest Heart Of Africa,Night Safari,River Safari,Bird Paradise,tourism,birdwatching

A fully immersive experience awaits visitors at Singapore’s Bird Paradise.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/singapore039s-new-avian-attraction-is-for-visitors-of-all-ages

What happens when you’re allergic to drugs

Have you ever had a rash and itchiness on your skin, swelling on your face, or difficulty of breathing, after eating something? If so, you may have an allergy. Allergies are a common condition where the immune system reacts abnormally to typically harmless substances. Besides specific foods, individuals can also be allergic to a variety of other substances, such as animal fur, dust mites, pollen, fungus, chemicals and medicines. However, not everyone has an allergy, and even among those who do have allergies, the allergens might not be the same from one individual to another. Allergic reactions to medicines, also known as drug allergies, occur when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a medicine as a harmful foreign substance and releases histamines and other body chemicals to combat it. Histamines are a compound that play a crucial role in the immune response. Certain cells, like mast cells and basophils, will release histamines when the body detects the presence of an allergen. The primary function of histamines is to help the body get rid of allergens by increasing the permeability of blood vessels, allowing immune cells to access affected tissues more easily. However, this release of histamines can lead to various allergy symptoms, such as itchiness, swelling, hives and difficulty breathing. This immune response can even lead to severe reactions like anaphylactic shock, which can be life-threatening. Treating drug allergies Drug allergies can generally be classified into two categories: mild and serious. Mild allergy symptoms include skin rashes, itchiness, hives, localised swelling, sneezing and a runny nose. These symptoms typically appear shortly after taking the medicine, but may resolve once the medicine is discontinued. To manage these symptoms, medications like anti-histamines and corticosteroids can be effective. Individuals experiencing mild allergies are advised to consult a doctor or pharmacist to determine the appropriate treatment options for their condition. On the other hand, life-threatening allergic reactions manifest through more severe symptoms, such as rashes over the whole body, facial swelling, breathing difficulties or burns on the skin. These conditions require immediate emergency treatment at a healthcare facility. Admitting patients with serious allergic reactions to the hospital ensures immediate and intensive treatment, along with continuous monitoring for any potential complications. The healthcare setting allows for the prompt management of severe symptoms and potential delayed reactions, providing comprehensive and life-saving care. It is especially crucial for patients, or their accompanying family members or friends, to remember the name of the medicine that triggered the allergic reaction. Examples of medicines commonly associated with allergies include anti-inflammatory medicines (e.g. diclofenac and mefenamic acid) and antibiotics (e.g. amoxicillin and sulphamethoxazole). However, individuals may be allergic to other classes of medicines as well. It is crucial for a person experiencing an allergic reaction to always remember the name of the medicine they are allergic to. This is because a second exposure to the same medicine can trigger a more severe allergic reaction than the first. The best way to identify the particular medicine is by remembering its generic name. The generic name refers to the active ingredient, or the common name used worldwide, to denote a specific medicine. In contrast, the brand name is the name given by the manufacturer to market the medicine. A brand name might not be recognised in a certain region or country, therefore, remembering the generic name of the medicine is strongly advised. Carry your card When experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction, seeking immediate medical attention at a healthcare facility is important. Doctors will assess the patient’s condition and provide appropriate interventions based on the specific symptoms and severity of the allergy. Prompt medical care can alleviate symptoms and prevent life-threatening reactions like anaphylactic shock. It is vital for patients to bring along the medicines suspected of triggering the allergy when seeking medical help. This enables the doctor to accurately identify the medicines and report the allergic reactions to the pharmacist. Additionally, the doctor will be able to request the issuance of a drug allergy card. This card will be issued to the individual by the pharmacist once there is solid evidence that a drug allergy has occurred. Strong evidence is needed in order to ensure that only patients who genuinely suffer from drug allergies are given the allergy card. This is essential to avoid treatment failure for other medical conditions, especially in critical situations where drug options are limited. An allergy card is the easiest way to inform a healthcare professional about a patient’s drug allergies, thus enabling the doctor to choose suitable alternative treatments in any future medical encounters. The card, issued by the Health Ministry, contains the cardholder’s name, the medicines that cause the allergy, and the name of the issuing health facility. Carrying the allergy card is essential for patients during medical appointments, while receiving treatments, or while purchasing medicines at pharmacies. It ensures that healthcare professionals are promptly notified of the patient’s allergies, thereby preventing potential allergic reactions. Patients should keep this card with them at all times to help safeguard their health when getting medical treatment and during any emergency situations. Patients should also bring any prescriptions, a list of current medicines, or information about previous medicines taken, to provide comprehensive information for the doctor or pharmacist. Be proactive In summary, understanding the mechanism of drug allergies and the appropriate steps to address them can empower individuals to take proactive measures in managing their allergies. It is crucial for individuals on any medicines to recognise the symptoms of drug allergies and seek immediate medical attention when an allergic reaction occurs. Additionally, knowing the name of the medicine you are allergic to, as well as carrying a drug allergy card, can help healthcare professionals avoid any allergic reactions and ensure safe treatment for you whenever necessary. For any inquiries regarding medicines, please call the National Pharmacy Call Centre (NPCC) at the toll-free number 1-800-88-6722 during weekdays from 8am to 5pm, except on public holidays. Ainur Fadlina Mohd Nadzir is a pharmacist at Hospital Sultan Idris Shah in Serdang, Selangor. This article is courtesy of the Health Ministry’s Pharmacy Practice and Development Division. For more information, email [email protected]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.

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Health Ministry's Pharmacy Practice and Development Division

2024-06-18 00:00:00

Wellness,Know Your Medicines,drugs,allergies

Drug allergies can range from mild to life-threatening, so it is good to be aware if you have such an allergy.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/know-your-medicines/2024/06/18/what-happens-when-youre-allergic-to-drugs

Ben Affleck spends Father’s Day with Jennifer ... Garner, not Lopez

Ben Affleck spent Father’s Day with ex-wife Jennifer Garner amid reports of turmoil in his marriage to Jennifer Lopez. The actor seemingly spent the day with his children, whom he co-parents with Garner, who was seen headed to his Brentwood house on Sunday. Affleck’s son Samuel was photographed riding shotgun as Affleck was seen giving Garner a ride home in the afternoon. Meanwhile, Lopez showed some Father’s Day love in a tribute to Affleck on her Instagram stories on Sunday. “Our hero. Happy Father’s Day,” she wrote in a caption on a black and white throwback photo of Affleck from his 2001 movie Pearl Harbor, paired with a white heart emoji. The post comes amid growing speculation on the status of the couple’s marriage. However, Lopez and Affleck were spotted together the day before at Affleck’s Brentwood rental after returning from their US$60mil home, which they recently put on the market. Affleck and Lopez don’t have any children together, but Affleck has three children — Violet, Seraphina and Samuel from his previous marriage with actress Jennifer Garner. Prior to the rumours of marital problems, the blended family had reportedly been close. A source told People earlier in June that Lopez and Affleck are “still friendly” despite their marital strain. Another insider told ET that Lopez and Affleck have “been having issues for a few months and trying to figure things out on their own,” the source revealed. “Jen has been having a hard time dealing with the general stress of life as well as in her career. She has been experiencing ups and downs while processing everything. She has been throwing herself into work, which has always been an outlet for her to stay busy and distracted.” – New York Daily News/Tribune News Service

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

Affleck spent Father’s Day with his ex-wife Garner amid reports of turmoil in his marriage to Lopez.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/ben-affleck-spends-fathers-day-with-jennifer--garner-not-lopez

Pope Francis meets more than 100 comedians, including Whoopi Goldberg, Conan O'Brien

Before flying to Italy's southern Puglia region to meet world leaders at the Group of Seven summit, Pope Francis hosted a very different audience at the Vatican on Friday celebrating the importance of humor. The pontiff welcomed more than 100 comedians from 15 nations, including US celebrities Whoopi Goldberg, Jimmy Fallon, Chris Rock, Stephen Colbert and Conan O’Brien. "In the midst of so much gloomy news, immersed as we are in many social and even personal emergencies, you have the power to spread peace and smiles,” Francis told the comedians. "You unite people, because laughter is contagious,” he continued, asking jokingly, "Please pray for me: for, not against!” Francis pointed out that in the creation, "Divine wisdom practiced your art for the benefit of none other than God himself, the first spectator in history,” with God delighting in the works that he had made. "Remember this,” he added. "When you manage to bring intelligent smiles to the lips of even a single spectator, you also make God smile.” Francis also said it was OK to "laugh at God” in the same way "we play and joke with the people we love.” After delivering his speech, Francis greeted all the comedians individually, sharing laughs and jokes with some of them. Chris Rock (left) and Conan O'Brien arrive for an audience with Pope Francis in the Clementine Hall at The Vatican, Friday, June 14, 2024. Pope Francis is meeting with over 100 comedians from 15 countries aiming to establish a link between the Catholic Church and comic artists. "It was great, it was very fast and really loving, and made me happy,” Goldberg said afterward. O’Brien noted that the pope "spoke in Italian, so I’m not quite sure what was said.” "To be in that room and to be with all my fellow comedians, some of whom I’ve been good friends with for many years, in that environment, was quite strange," the former TV host added. "All of us were thinking, how did this happen? Why are we here, and when are they going to throw us out?” Colbert admitted his Italian "is really bad, I would like to speak it better.” But he managed to remind the pope that he had done the audiobook for his memoir. "It was wonderful, he’ll never forget me,” he joked. – AP

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

After delivering his speech, Francis greeted all the comedians individually, sharing laughs and jokes with some of them.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/18/pope-francis-meets-more-than-100-comedians-including-whoopi-goldberg-conan-o039brien

Four adventures in one day

GO kayaking, fossil-hunting, river-wading and caving – all in a day. It might be tiring, but if you have the stamina and want a rich outdoor experience, it is possible. Retired geologist Tang Thim Wan, 75, gave it a try and found it satisfying. “The important thing is that the locations of these outdoor adventures are close to each other, so there is minimum travel time and maximum playtime,” he said with a smile. Kayakers and swimmers in life jackets. His four-in-one jaunt was in an area in Perak about 30km south of Ipoh, within a radius of less than 10km around Malim Nawar, Jeram and Sungai Siput. The start of his adventurous day began at about 8am on an ex-mining lake in Malim Nawar, which looks a little different from most other lakes. Unlike the hundreds of ex-mining lakes in Perak, this one is not an open body of water. Instead, it is ringed by craggy limestone outcrops that extend out to the water. To see the lake from your smartphone, point your Google Maps app to “Pinnacles Kampung Changkat Tualang” and activate the satellite view. This photo shows how the lake water is actually clear and the colour of Chinese tea. It is not a tourist destination; there are no proper roads leading to it, only dirt trails of kampung houses and farmland. It covers an area of 6ha, or around eight Fifa World Cup football fields, and Tang said the lake has a rugged, undisturbed natural setting. Even better, he said there were several fossils on the limestone formations. “They are gastropod fossils. Several have been found and you can also find them during a short hike around the limestones by the lake. “You are better off hiring a licensed geo-guide who can even provide kayaks for you to paddle out and explore the lake,” he said. School students entering a limestone cave by a river. One such geo-guide is Nang Yu Lee, 40, who said he would bring along inflatable kayaks for participants. “It is a small lake so you will not become exhausted from paddling. The limestone formations that extend into the water make it a beautiful place for you to take memorable pictures of each other while paddling,” said Nang. There is one other merit to this lake. The high amount of dissolved calcium carbonate from the limestone gives the lake water a deep Chinese tea colour, indicating that the lake water is clean enough to swim in. “Never swim in green lake water – it can mean the presence of blue-green algae and harmful cyanobacteria. The tea-coloured water here is safe,” Nang explained. Kayakers navigating through limestone outcrops. He outfits all his participants with life jackets and encourages them to experience swimming in the cool waters under his watchful eye. Nang said he has brought participants who paddle and swim on the lake for several hours before they stop for lunch. The next adventure entails a 7km drive. At a small town called Jeram, about half an hour south of Ipoh, a shallow river flows around limestone hills about 200m tall. In those hills are caves that can only be reached by wading along the river. Fossil in limestone Again, these are not popular tourist destinations; there are no signs or ticket counters. Nang takes his charges along farm trails to reach a section of the river bank that they climb down to wade into the river. “Although the sandy river is just up to your knee or waist at most, everyone is required to wear life jackets. Besides safety, there is a fun reason for that,” he said. You can just float on your back and let the river current take you downstream. On the other side of the river are a few cave entrances, which Nang himself discovered with friends on their exploration trips. Explorers admiring a huge stalactite. “When you look up, you can see how the roofs of the cave mouths have smooth undulations caused by thousands of years of water erosion. “That means the gentle, shallow river by the caves was deep and swift aeons ago. “This is also why we can easily find gastropod fossils in the limestone formations,” he said, adding that thousands of fossils have been discovered in limestone and granite all over Perak’s Kinta Valley. The pleasure of wading and floating downriver depends on the weather, and Nang said during the rainy season, he might not take participants to the river if it had been raining a good deal. Instead, he would guide them to other caves. “There are so many caves here. In some, we found antique pots and crockery left behind by explorers who lived there while harvesting jungle resources. “We left the artefacts exactly as we found them and frankly, I seldom bring participants to these caves because I want to leave them undisturbed,” he said. Admiring limestone formations created by water in a cave. There are also caves where they have encountered Buddhist monks seated in deep meditation. “They sit there with eyes closed and completely ignore us. We move away as silently as we can. “I am amazed by these monks. Where do they get food?” Nang said as per Perak regulations for licensed geo-guides, each guide is allowed to lead seven participants at most. “So guiding fees for such outdoor packages depend on the number of participants, rental of equipment such as kayaks, life jackets, helmets, headlamps and the use of four-wheel drive vehicles, if necessary,” he explained. As an example, he recently brought a group of over 20 students and teachers to explore the limestone lake in Malim Nawar, with a fee of RM100 per person. For details, text Nang at 019-888 6013.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

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GO kayaking, fossil-hunting, river-wading and caving – all in a day.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/four-adventures-in-one-day

A 'Fan' of the durian

PETALING JAYA: Popular Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has officially begun her stint as Visit Melaka 2024 ambassador to much fanfare. But besides being an actress, Fan, who is famous for her roles as Wu Zetian in The Empress of China and in X-Men:Days of Future Past, is also a great lover of durians. Check out below the famous celebrities who love durians. Celebrities who love

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

PETALING JAYA: Popular Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has officially begun her stint as Visit Melaka 2024 ambassador to much fanfare.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/18/a-039fan039-of-the-durian

The US is playing politics while the world burns

WE’RE living through record-breaking high temperatures as fossil fuel pollution keeps heating up the planet. Logic dictates that we should all be doing our best to stop using dirty energy and move onto clean, renewable energy instead, right? But we’re not. Because politics. Amid a climate crisis, when countries should band together to keep temperatures from rising over the catastrophic 1.5°C mark, anti-green national interests are still pushing policy. The bad news for the planet is that the country that is doing this is the second biggest polluter in the world: the United States. On May 14, the United States imposed new tariffs on China-made semiconductors, electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy (RE) products like solar cells and advanced batteries. Cheap EVs and RE products from China that are supported by “illegal subsidies” are posing a threat to US jobs and national security, claims President Joe Biden's administration in justifying the increase – interestingly, announced just months before the November 2024 presidential election. The move will see tariffs quadrupling on EVs, tripling on lithium-ion EV batteries, battery storage and parts, and doubling on solar cells, making these products a lot more expensive in the US market, which will be a significant blow for the country’s move towards renewable energy. For instance, the EV Seagull by Chinese automaker BYD used to retail for only US$12,000 (around RM56,000); in comparison, the cheapest EV by American manufacturer Tesla retails for US$40,000 (around RM187,600). With the new tariffs, the Seagull is going to cost a lot more, preventing higher sales of nonpolluting EVs to a wider market. The United States, like any other sovereign nation, makes its own decisions about its economy, of course. The problem is, the impact of American decisions rarely stay within American borders – “America sneezes and the rest of the world catches a cold,” as they say. The sign for a BYD EV showroom in Budapest. Chinese EV giant BYD is planning to set up its first European car plant in Hungary. But will the plans be realised if the European Union is influenced by the US decision to impose higher tariffs on China-made EVs? — BloombergAlready, the European Union has announced tariffs up to 38% while a think tank in India, which makes its own EVs, has issued a warning to watch out for “EV dumping from China”. Green-powered – or not? For Malaysia, talk in the market is that exports of solar photovoltaic panels to the United States may actually rise in the wake of the May 14 decision. However, in 2022, Malaysia was also among four countries in South-East Asia that had their solar panel exports slapped with tariffs by the Americans after China shifted some factories here. Although the Biden administration subsequently granted a two-year waiver on these tariffs, this came to end on June 6, 2024. The result of this is that some Chinese companies in Malaysia and other South-East Asian nations are reportedly rethinking their plans for this part of the world, including considering suspending their production lines here. On the surface, this looks like yet another shot in the trade war between China and the United States; look a little deeper, however, and it’s clear that this US policy will have a distinctly negative effect on the planet's fight against climate change. The United States is the world’s No.2 polluter, responsible for 13.5% of global CO2 emissions in 2021, and while it has been overtaken by China (30.9%), it is still historically responsible for more emissions than any other country. Taken together, both China and the United States emitted almost 45% of global CO2 in 2021. According to a CNN report updated in January 2024, “China may be the biggest emitter overall, but the average American is responsible for nearly twice as much climate pollution as the average person in China”. Logically, cheaper EVs and RE persuading more American consumers to switch to clean power would make a dent in these figures. But, as an editorial about the increased tariffs in financial magazine Bloomberg put it, “The policy blocks access to low-cost clean technology and undermines efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions.” Similarly, reducing China’s EV sales in the European Union would also affect the continent’s plans to end the sale of new gasoline and diesel vehicles by 2035. The race to zero Meenakshi: ‘Using national security arguments to prevent more affordable RE and EVs is not acting in good faith.’ — Filepic/The StarAgreeing that lower EV and RE product costs result in better outcomes in the fight against climate change, Sahabat Alam Malaysia president Meenakshi Raman says that some countries are not acting in the interests of developing countries, which are, more often than not, the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. “Quite clearly, it is about protecting their industries, which are actually protectionist in nature,” points out Meenakshi, who is in Bonn, Germany, attending climate change talks in June 2024 and replies to our questions via email. “In these talks, the European Union and United States talk about developing countries needing to show more ambition on their climate actions. “But if these RE and EV technologies are not affordable and are burdensome on developing countries, they are not helpful at all,” she says. Would it be better for a country to focus on developing its own EVs and RE technology as a matter of national security and interest? “Addressing climate change is a global obligation as agreed to by all countries under the UNFCCC [United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change] and the Paris Agreement,” says Meenakshi in reply. “Using national security arguments to prevent more affordable RE and EV is not acting in good faith.” According to Taylor’s University and Unitar KL adjunct professor Dr Renard Siew, considering that transportation is a major contributor of carbon emissions, decarbonising this sector through EVs is a critical piece of the energy transition puzzle. Malaysia, for example, has been trying to encourage the purchase of EVs by offering cheaper road tax besides promoting the use of public transit as another way of cutting down carbon emissions. Reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector is widely considered to be low-hanging fruit in the chase for net zero that Malaysia has committed to achieving by 2050. “Broadly speaking, lower costs can make EVs and RE technologies more accessible to a broader range of countries, especially those with limited financial resources. “Cheaper production costs can facilitate the scaling up of RE projects and EV manufacturing,” says Siew. Not soon enough Siew: ‘The levying of tariffs on RE and EVs in the United States and the European Union is a complex interplay of economic, political, and strategic considerations, with arguments both for and against raising tariffs.’ — Filepic/The StarHowever, Siew cautions that the levying of tariffs on RE and EVs in the United States and the European Union is a complex interplay of economic, political, and strategic considerations, with arguments both for and against raising tariffs. The primary reason for such tariffs, he explains, is to protect domestic industries from being undercut by cheaper foreign imports while allowing local companies time to develop and become competitive. “This can be crucial for fostering innovation, securing jobs, and building a sustainable industrial base. “Secondly, by having such tariffs on RE and EVs, countries can reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, which can be particularly important for critical technologies,” he says. He adds that energy independence and control over essential technology supply chains are often seen as matters of national security. In Siew’s opinion, focusing on developing its own production of EVs and RE can also be beneficial for a country in the long term, helping to protect it from geopolitical risks and price volatility – as borne out by the fallout from the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. “From an energy independence perspective, developing local RE resources can help reduce the reliance on imported fossil fuels, thus further enhancing energy security. “This can protect a country from geopolitical risks and price volatility in the global energy market. “Also, investing in domestic EV and RE industries can help create green jobs, stimulate economic growth, and accelerate innovation,” he says. On the flip side, tariffs, admits Siew, can increase the cost of RE and EVs for consumers significantly, potentially slowing the adoption of these technologies and hindering progress towards climate goals. “People often forget that the production of RE and EVs often involves complex global supply chains. Levying tariffs can potentially disrupt these supply chains, increasing costs and reducing efficiency. This can slow down innovation and the scaling up of such technologies. “It can also potentially lead to retaliatory measures from other countries, resulting in trade wars that can harm the global economy,” he says. Infrastructure for EVs is slowly growing here – this is a charging station at a Kuala Lumpur shopping mall. Reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector is the low-hanging fruit in the chase for net zero that Malaysia has committed to achieving by 2050. — Filepic/The StarIn Malaysia, recent news that homegrown automakers Proton and Perodua are coming up with their own EV prototypes has got the local market excited. With many of the imported EVs priced out of the affordable range – except for maybe the T20 (top 20% in terms of earnings) segment of the country’s population – cheaper local models will surely entice many to switch to cleaner power. Similarly, more affordable solar photovoltaic panels – the price of which has nearly halved over the past 12 months, according to the Malaysian Photovoltaic Industry Association – means that more Malaysians are now chasing green electric dreams for their homes. With yet another year of record-breaking heat and more frequent floods on our heels, the cost of not making the switch to cleaner energy will be too high otherwise.

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

Environment,Climate,climate crisis,renewable energy,electric vehicles,US-China trade war,tariffs

Cheaper electric vehicles and renewable energy are a good thing for the world’s climate, right? But the Americans don’t seem to think so. And what happens in that country tends to have an outsized effect on the world – which bodes ill for the climate crisis.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/environment/2024/06/18/the-us-is-playing-politics-while-the-world-burns

Thrilling pursuit of lampam

FISHING for ikan lampam, or tinfoil barb, offers an exhilarating experience amidst Malaysia’s scenic rivers and lakes. These silver-scaled fighters thrive in clear, well-oxygenated waters with plenty of submerged vegetation that provides food and cover. The country’s pristine waterways, from the serene rivers of Pahang to the man-made Kenyir Lake and picturesque Temenggor Lake, are ideal for pursuing these vigorous freshwater fish. One exciting way to catch them is through fly fishing, with nymph flies presenting anglers with a thrilling challenge. Fly fishing for lampam is a unique and rewarding experience. The excitement of casting a fly, the anticipation as it drifts through the water, and the adrenaline rush of hooking a fish make lampam a favourite among anglers. Having the right gear is essential to effectively target lampam using fly fishing. A 3 to 5 weight fly rod comes highly recommended, while a sturdy reel with a smooth drag system helps manage lampam’s powerful runs. Use a floating fly line, which works well in various freshwater conditions, and pair it with a 9-foot tapered leader and a 4X to 5X tippet for subtle presentations that minimise spooking the fish. Nymph flies are highly effective for lampam fishing. With attractive colour combinations and bead heads, these flies imitate aquatic insects in their nymphal stage, a primary food source for lampam. Short to medium casts (10-30 feet) are typically sufficient, as lampam often stay close to submerged vegetation or structures. A Randuk Lampam Vol 3 participant in action at Sungai Geroh Gopeng, where the event attracted some 100 participants. Once you detect a tug and strike, quickly lift the rod tip to set the hook. Lampam have a strong initial run, so be prepared for a fight. Use a combination of rod pressure and reel drag to tire the fish, avoiding excessive pressure to prevent breaking the tippet. Guide the fish towards you and use a landing net to capture it safely and efficiently. It is a thrilling and challenging experience to catch lampam using a fly rod. Wet your hands before handling the fish to protect its delicate scales and mucus layer. Fly fishing for lampang is not just about the catch; it’s about the experience and passion. Last month, about 100 fly fishing enthusiasts gathered at Randuk Lampam Vol 3, a fishing event organised by the Perak Fly Fishing Syndicate, to test their skills. Nymph flies, designed to mimic aquatic insects in their nymphal stage, are highly effective in catching the lampam fish. The event, an annual gathering for fly anglers from across the country, was a fun-filled overnight affair at Atok Gonen Camping Site in Gopeng, where participants shared their knowledge and built friendships. Badong Sepi emerged as the top winner, followed by Wan Samad in second place, with Zohairi Tahir and Yazid Kazuma rounding out the top positions. Happy fishing!

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FISHING for ikan lampam, or tinfoil barb, offers an exhilarating experience amidst Malaysia’s scenic rivers and lakes.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/thrilling-pursuit-of-lampam

The power of mini torchlights

JUST as a pocket knife complements a belt knife, a secondary, mini torchlight can be a highly convenient addition to your adventure gear. Some are smaller than a car remote alarm control, weighing a mere 20-30g. Even if your plan is to go on a morning hike, it will not hurt to clip it on your pocket or belt pouch, just in case you find yourself stranded or lost past sunset. Small as they are, they pack a lot more power than the average convenience store torchlight that are powered by alkaline batteries. As a rough guide, a standard torchlight has a light strength of 100-200 lumens. The tiny hi-tech torchlights can emit a beam of 500 to 1,000 lumens, enough to turn night into day wherever you shine it. Clipping this to your chest rig or shirt pocket keeps you hands-free while shining a light ahead of you. But to protect them from overheating, the micro-circuitry in these torches will prevent you from using them at maximum strength for too long and they will automatically dim to a lower level of brightness after a few minutes. That said, one hardly needs that many lumens at all times. At the lowest setting, most of them will emit light at a strength of just one or even half a lumen, which is perfect for searching for something in your tent, bag or car in the dark without blinding you in the process. If you only use them at the lowest strength, most of them can stay on for two or three days. Some are so hi-tech that they have an LED display screen to give you info on how many hours you have left to use the torch at a particular setting so you can plan your recharging times. The tiniest ones usually have a ring at the other end for you to attach it to a retractable lanyard attached to your pouch or even shirt. This little torchlight has a small AAA-sized lithium battery that comes with its own USB charging port. This is an indispensable feature because being small, there is some risk of you misplacing or even dropping them. Larger ones might come with a pocket clip with which you can attach to your cap and turn it into a headlamp; remember to clip the light to the top of your cap’s brim so that the unit does not block your field of vision. A few have a magnet at the end so that you can stick it to your car bonnet if you need to do emergency repairs, or else onto any metal surface so that you can free your hands while still lighting up the dark. Yet, others have their LED lights not at the ends but along one side. This is specially for you to clip on to your chest rig or shirt pocket, flooding the area ahead of you with light so you don’t have to use one hand to hold a torch. Some of these tiny torchlights come with additional features and one of the coolest ones is the ability to shine ultraviolet (UV) light. LED display showing the number of hours left when the one-lumen brightness is used. Other than the convenience of using it to verify the authenticity of bank notes, you can use the UV function to search for small wildlife while camping. Certain spiders, scorpions, centipedes, preying mantis and other creepy crawlies glow in blue, green, purple and even psychedelic pink when UV light is shined on them. Some tiny shrimps and some baitfish in shallow streams will have bluish spots that glow under UV light. Some leaves and flowers will look completely different under UV light. So your tiny backup torch with UV function becomes a delightful toy after dinner when you are camping in the woods. Other mini torches have a laser light function, so you can bring it along to the office to use as a pointer during slide presentations. Yet, others have casings that glow in the dark after use, making it easy for you to find it again later. The security strips of these RM50 notes glow under this tiny torchlight’s UV light. Several come with additional red, blue, green and yellow LED bulbs. Red light is always useful because it allows you to search for things near you without losing your night vision. The other lights are tactical indicators that allow a team of people moving in pitch darkness to identify one another. This assortment of coloured LED lights also serve as an emergency beacon because they can be set to flash in sequence for many hours or even days. So if you are lost in the woods, hang the tiny torchlight up with the emergency beacon function on and rescuers will be able to spot you from far away. Despite all that, there are a couple of minor inconveniences with these mini torchlights. Glowing in the dark depths of a bag. For one, because they are so compact, they are powered by small lithium batteries which have no after-market replacements. Expect them to last three to five years, and gradually, the batteries will not be able to hold their charge for long anymore. To keep the batteries “healthy”, recharge them often and avoid using the torches till the batteries are fully drained unless you have no choice. The other feature to take special note of is the waterproofing. For this, note the torchlights’ International or Ingress Protection (IP) rating. At IP54, you can happily use it under thunderstorms; it is splash-proof but will not withstand immersion. At IP67, it can withstand being submerged in 15cm to 1m of water for up to 30 minutes. At IP68, it can be continually immersed in freshwater at depths of over 1m. These IP ratings apply to all electronical gear and the maximum depths are stipulated by manufacturers. With so many features and options, consider your outdoor needs carefully before buying a secondary light source and you might end up being grateful for having this backup.

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JUST as a pocket knife complements a belt knife, a secondary, mini torchlight can be a highly convenient addition to your adventure gear.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/the-power-of-mini-torchlights

Making chicken rice in the woods

BOILING rice over a campfire can be quite challenging, especially when we’re accustomed to electric rice cookers pampering us at home. To make learning (or re-learning) how to do it worthwhile, try this backwoods Hainanese chicken rice style using your mess tin and camp stove. This method is designed as a meal for one. You’ll need a mess tin with a lid and a foldable camp stove wind shield to keep the fire steady. Start with the chicken: a boneless drumstick makes for a fine treat. Rub in some sesame oil, salt, spring onion bulbs (the fat, white ends) and sliced ginger, and let it sit for about 30 minutes. A stainless steel mess tin with a sturdy lid is a better option than an aluminium one. Next, measure the amount of rice to cook. As a rule of thumb, you will need about 150ml of rice per person. Measuring by volume is easier because you need one part rice to two parts water. So, if you use 150ml of rice, add 300ml of water. Rinse the rice a few times until the water is clear, then set it aside. Sauté some sliced garlic, ginger cloves, spring onion and one pandan leaf in butter or cooking oil until fragrant. Since the mess tin has limited space, knot the pandan leaf and spring onion strands. Knot up the pandan leaf and spring onions. Avoid slicing the garlic so you can easily remove them after the rice is cooked. Add the rice, stirring it to mix with the sautéed herbs, followed by water with chicken stock powder or liquid concentrate dissolved into it. Taste the stock water to get it to your liking. Practise at home before going camping to get a feel for the right amount of stock. After pouring in the water, put the lid on the mess tin and bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir the rice into the sautéed herbs before adding water with dissolved chicken stock. Once it boils, lower the fire to a simmer; do not open the lid. If a little liquid boils over, leave it and clean up later. This is when your camp stove wind shield comes in handy because a steady low fire is essential. Strong winds can disrupt the fire, affecting how well the rice cooks. After five minutes of simmering, add the boneless drumstick, laying it flat across the semi-cooked rice for better heat distribution. Lay the boneless drumstick on the semicooked rice for better heat distribution. Continue simmering for another 10 minutes, then turn off the fire and let it sit for another five minutes. That’s it! You’re now ready to sample your creation. Your creation is ready to be served. Remove the pandan leaf, spring onion strands, garlic and ginger from the cooked rice. Add soy sauce or chilli if you like, or even some cucumber slices if you have them. With a few tries (again, practise at home), you’ll become one of the rare few who can enjoy Hainanese chicken rice in the woods!

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2024-06-18 00:00:00

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BOILING rice over a campfire can be quite challenging, especially when we’re accustomed to electric rice cookers pampering us at home.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/making-chicken-rice-in-the-woods

Escape to a hidden paradise

IT’s a three-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Maran, Pahang, followed by another three hours of hiking along a well-made jungle trail. But the journey to Jeram Pelangi (Rainbow Falls), near Kampung Kuala Sentul, is well worth the effort. Rainbow Falls cascades down from a 600m hill, with the base camp situated around 300m above sea level. Satellite images reveal that the 30,000ha surrounding this hill is pure virgin jungle, devoid of neatly-arrayed oil palm plantations or jungle trails for lorries. Licensed jungle guide Suhairy Ismail assures that the three-hour hike is easy. “There will be no clambering up steep hills. It is a well-made trail and more like a leisurely walk,” he said. Upon reaching the base camp, phone signals and internet connections are hit-or-miss. Some people find spots with connectivity, while others don’t. Jeram Tangga (Staircase Falls). However, this trip offers a chance to commune with nature, featuring three waterfalls and two sections of rapids. Suhairy and his team organise a 2D1N camping trip to Jeram Pelangi during the relatively drier South-West Monsoon. The fee of RM250 per person includes the bus ride from Kuala Lumpur, permits, fees for local guides, a ride in four-wheel-drive vehicles, open tents, meals, first aid, and personal accident insurance. “Participants can bring their own tents instead of sleeping in the open tents. Some even like to bring their own camp stoves and light rations like beverages and instant noodles. “Just remember that this is a jungle hike-camping trip, so plan your gear well to avoid being over-burdened with a heavy backpack,” advised Suhairy. It took nature millions of years to form the neat rows of slabbed rocks. The base camp has toilet facilities but no electricity, so bringing a power bank for your camera and light sources is essential. Once you reach the waterfalls, you’ll see why the trip is worth it. Jeram Kawah (Crater Falls) is adorned with naturally-slabbed rock faces, the result of millions of years of sedimentation and pressure. For photographers, these slabbed rock faces offer unique natural perspective lines for photo compositions, rarely found elsewhere in Malaysia. Natural slabbed rockfaces of Jeram Kawah (Crater Falls). Next is Rainbow Falls itself, standing 50m tall. The mist created by the tumbling water casts an intense rainbow under the sun. “Local guides, along with cooks, will prepare meals and carry rations, allowing participants to focus on enjoying the experience without worrying too much about camp chores,” said Suhairy. According to him, these falls were the “best kept secrets” of the villagers in the valley for generations. In 2008, they became known to the Pahang government, which helped villagers leverage them as a source of eco-tourism income. For further details, direct your inquiries to [email protected].

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IT’s a three-hour bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Maran, Pahang, followed by another three hours of hiking along a well-made jungle trail. But the journey to Jeram Pelangi (Rainbow Falls), near Kampung Kuala Sentul, is well worth the effort.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/18/escape-to-a-hidden-paradise

'Stereophonic' wins best play at Tonys, with wins for Daniel Radcliffe, 'Suffs'

Stereophonic, the play about a Fleetwood Mac-like band recording an album over a turbulent and life-changing year, got a lighters-in-the-air cheer at the Tony Awards on Sunday, winning best new play while theatre history was made for women as Broadway directors and score writers. Stereophonic, the most-nominated play in Tony Awards history, is a hyper-naturalistic meditation on the thrill and danger of collaborating on art - the compromises, the egos and the joys. It was written by David Adjmi with songs by former Arcade Fire member Will Butler. "Oh, no. My agent gave me a beta-blocker, but it's not working,” Adjmi said. He added that the play took 11 years to manifest. "This was a very hard journey to get up here,” he said. "We need to fund the arts in America.” He dedicated it to all the artists out there. Danya Taymor - whose aunt is Julie Taymor, the first woman to win a Tony Award for directing a musical - became the 11th woman to win the award. She helmed The Outsiders, a gritty musical adaptation of the classic American young adult novel. British actor Daniel Radcliffe, winner of the best performance by a featured actor in a musical for 'Merrily We Roll Along'. Photo: AFP "Thank you to the great women who have lifted me up,” she said, naming producer Angelina Jolie among her list. Then Shaina Taub, only the second woman in Broadway history to write, compose and star in a Broadway musical, won for best score, following such writers as Cyndi Lauper, Lisa Kron and Jeanine Tesori. Taub, the force behind Suffs, had already won for best book earlier in the night. Her musical is about the heroic final years of the fight to allow women to vote, leading to the passage of the 19th Amendment. "If you are inspired by the story of Suffs, please make sure you and everyone you know have registered to vote and vote, vote, vote!” she said. Taub also said the win was for all the loud girls out there: "Go for it,” she urged. Earlier, Alicia Keys electrified the show when she teamed up with superstar Jay-Z on their hit Empire State Of Mind. Shaina Taub accepts the award for best original score, music and lyrics, for 'Suffs,' at the 77th Annual Tony Awards in New York. Photo: Reuters Keys appeared at the piano on the stage of the David H. Koch Theater in Lincoln Center as the cast of her semi-autobiographical musical, Hell’s Kitchen, was presenting a medley of songs. She began singing her and Jay-Z’s 2009 smash before leaving the stage to join the rapper on some interior steps to wild applause. Host Ariana DeBose kicked off the telecast with an original, acrobatic number and Jeremy Strong took home the first big award of the night as Broadway's biggest party opened its arms to hip hop and rock fans. Strong, the Succession star, landed his first Tony for his work in the revival of Henrik Ibsen’s 1882 political play An Enemy Of The People. The theatre award for best lead actor in a play will sit next to his Emmy, Screen Actors Guild Award and Golden Globe. The play is about a public-minded doctor in a small town who discovers the water supply for the public spa is contaminated but his efforts to clean up the mess pits his ethics against political cowards. "This play is a cry from the heart,” he said. Hot ticket stars at the Tony Awards (from left) Will Brill, Ryan Rumery, John Johnson, Sue Wagner, David Adjmi, Daniel Aukin, Will Butler and David Zinn, winners of the best play award for 'Stereophonic'. Photo: AFP Kara Young, the first Black performer to be nominated for a Tony three consecutive years in a row, won this time as best featured actress in a play for Purlie Victorious, the story of a Black preacher’s scheme to reclaim his inheritance and win back his church from a plantation owner. "Thank you to my ancestors," she said, adding thanks to her mom and dad, brother, partner, cast, her co-star Leslie Odom Jr. and her director, Kenny Leon. She saved her last thanks to playwright Ossie Davis and his star Ruby Dee, who originated the role. Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe cemented his stage career pivot by winning a featured actor in a musical Tony, his first trophy in five Broadway shows. He won for the revival of Merrily We Roll Along, the Stephen Sondheim- George Furth musical that goes backward in time. "This is one of the best experiences of my life,” Radcliffe said, thanking his cast and director. "I will never have it as good again.” He also thanked his parents for playing Sondheim in the car growing up. Kecia Lewis, who plays a formidable piano teacher in Hell’s Kitchen, took home her first Tony. The 40-year veteran made her Broadway debut at 18 in the original company of Dreamgirls and endured amazing moments and heartbreak. Jeremy Strong accepts the award for best performance by an actor in a leading role in a play for ;An Enemy Of The People' at the 77th Annual Tony Awards in New York on June 16. Photo: Reuters "This moment is the one I dreamed of for those 40 years,” she told the crowd. ”Don’t give up!” Appropriate, Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ play - centred on a family reunion in Arkansas where everyone has competing motivations and grievances - was named best play revival. Jacobs-Jenkins in his remarks thanked Davis, saying there would be no Appropriate without Purlie Victorious. Three-time Tony-honoured Chita Rivera got a tribute by Tony winners Audra McDonald, Brian Stokes Mitchell and Bebe Neuwirth. Images of her work in Chicago, Kiss Of The Spider Woman and West Side Story were projected while dancers mimicked her hit numbers. DeBose, who won an Oscar in Rivera’s old West Side Story role of Anita, also joined in. DeBose, a three-time host, started the main telecast with a nod to Chicago by holding up a newspaper with the headline, "She’s Back!!!” and then jumping into the original song This Party’s For You, which had a disco vibe with hip hop elements and multiple acrobatic lifts. The song was a cheer for those who sacrifice for their art and she took a gentle swipe at other entertainment types: "You’ll learn that film and TV can make you rich and make you famous. But theater will make you better.” She ended the song with a dramatic backward fall from a pillar. Kecia Lewis poses with the award for best performance by a featured actress in a musical for 'Hell's Kitchen'. Photo: Reuters Stereophonic, a play about a Fleetwood Mac-like band recording an album over a turbulent, life-changing year, was leading the Tony count with four, including for director Daniel Aukin and for actor-bassist Will Brill. Among those Brill thanked were his therapist and bass teacher. On the pre-show, Stereophonic and The Outsiders each took two technical Tonys. Stereophonic won sound design for Ryan Rumery, while David Zinn’s work on the show won best scenic design of a play. Stereophonic, went into the night with a leading 13 Tony nominations, tied with Hell's Kitchen. The Outsiders also won two pre-show Tonys: best sound design for Cody Spencer and best lighting design for Hana S. Kim and Brian MacDevitt. Dede Ayite’s work on Jaja’s African Hair Braiding won best costume design of a play. Jonathan Tunick won best orchestrations for Merrily We Roll Along and Linda Cho earned the Tony for best costume design for a musical for The Great Gatsby. The best choreography award went to Justin Peck for Illinoise. - AP

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The Broadway community celebrated its best and brightest at New York's Lincoln Center, hosted by Oscar winner Ariana DeBose

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/17/039stereophonic039-wins-best-play-at-tonys-with-wins-for-daniel-radcliffe-039suffs039

Michelle Yeoh and husband Jean Todt celebrate 20 years as a couple

They may be newlyweds, but their love for each other has spanned two decades. Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh and her French husband Jean Todt recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of their relationship in the City of Love. This was revealed by Yeoh, 61, who posted three photos with Todt, 78, on social media on June 13, with the caption “20 years”. The first photo showed the couple raising their glasses at a restaurant, while the second was of the Eiffel Tower. The third photo showed the Malaysian actress kissing Todt on his forehead as he leaned against her in a garden. She tied the knot with Todt, the former president of the International Automobile Federation, on July 27, 2023, in Geneva, Switzerland, after more than 19 years of dating. The couple met in Shanghai, China, on June 4, 2004, and after one-and-a-half months of dating, Yeoh agreed to his proposal when the Formula One legend popped the question on July 26, 2004. The Ipoh-born star made history in March 2023 by becoming the first Asian woman to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the science-fiction comedy Everything Everywhere All At Once (2022). She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom – America’s highest civilian award – by United States President Joe Biden in May for being the first Asian to win a Best Actress Oscar. – The Straits Times/Asia News Network

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

The couple celebrated the 20th anniversary of their relationship in the City of Love.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/17/michelle-yeoh-and-husband-jean-todt-celebrate-20-years-as-a-couple

How this pharmaceutical company tricked doctors

Pharmaceutical companies have a long history of managing physician and public opinion, say Canada’s Queen’s University professor of philosophy Dr Sergio Sismondo and the Netherlands’ Radboud University postdoctoral research fellow Dr Maud Bernisson. For example, by recruiting physicians to serve as influencers, planting articles in scientific journals, coordinating conference presentations and developing continuing medical education (CME) courses. Amid surging concerns over an addiction crisis in the United States, opioid giant Mallinckrodt faced growing hesitancy among frontline prescribers. The American-Irish pharmaceutical company was forced by US courts to publish more than 1.3 million internal documents. Prof Sismondo and Dr Bernisson sifted through nearly 900 contracts, which together reveal a carefully-coordinated effort to shape medical attitudes toward pain medicine. They published their results in The BMJ medical journal on June 10 (2024). The contracts show how Mallinckrodt employed each of the tactics mentioned above as it sought to reframe concerns about addiction as a phobia and muddle the very concept of dependence as “pseudoaddiction”. It even went so far as casting opioids as preventive medicine for chronic pain. “It’s like they used every trick in the book,” says US advocacy organisation Public Citizen’s Health Research Group director Dr Robert Steinbrook. To many busy physicians, these messages would have appeared as trustworthy scholarship and evidence-based guidance, Prof Sismondo and Dr Bernisson explain. The documents include a Mallinckrodt regulatory expert describing how its CME programme “underscores Mallinckrodt’s credibility with the [US] FDA as a company that cares about ... safe opioid prescribing”, while a sales manager’s exhortation in a 2013 email to the reps under him states: “You have only one responsibility, SELL BABY SELL!” US’ Georgetown University pharmacology & physiology professor Dr Adriane Fugh-Berman, who has been researching the marketing tactics of the pharmaceutical industry for thirty years, adds that “creating the term ‘pseudoaddiction’ and distorting the terms ‘tolerance’ and ‘dependence’ were strategies that distracted physicians from noticing their patients were addicted”. In spite of settling with the US government for lax handling of its opioid supply and later being ordered to pay USD1.7 billion (RM8 billion) over accusations of misleading and deceptive marketing practices to boost opioid sales, Mallinckrodt continues to sell opioids today, with sales of some US$262 million (RM1,236 million) in 2023, up 25% from the year before.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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The painkiller manufacturer used multiple tactics to influence doctors to continue prescribing its drugs.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/2024/06/17/how-this-pharmaceutical-company-tricked-doctors

Malaysia is among the top trending tourist destinations in Asia

It has been two years since Malaysia reopened to international tourists. The tourism sector, which took a hit when the borders were closed from 2020 to 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, has yet to fully recover. However, the tourism industry continues to show positive signs of recovery as tourist arrivals doubled over the past year. Based on statistics from Tourism Malaysia, the country received 20.14 million international arrivals in 2023, as opposed to 10.07 million in 2022, and generated RM71.3bil in tourism revenue. The 100% increase in tourist arrivals is an encouraging sign, even if it is still 22.8% lower than 2019’s 26.1 million. For 2024, Tourism Malaysia is aiming to achieve 27.3 million tourist arrivals with a total expenditure of RM102.7bil. If the industry’s growth last year up until Q1 of 2024 is anything to go by, this ambitious venture may just be realised. High ranking According to the fifth annual report by Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI), Malaysia’s tourism recovery is on track, with certain categories – such as shopping and dining – recording numbers higher than pre-pandemic levels. In ASEAN, Malaysia recorded the highest increase in casual dining, totalling 82.8%. — Photos: Unsplash The report draws on a unique analysis of aggregated and anonymised Mastercard transaction data, including Mastercard SpendingPulse and third-party data sources, to provide comprehensive insights into the travel industry across 74 markets, 13 of which are in the Asia Pacific region (APAC). Entitled Travel Trends 2024: Breaking Boundaries, the report also analyses key tourism trends for 2024 and beyond. APAC destinations, as per the report, are trending worldwide. By measuring the change in share of tourism transactions over 12 months (ending March 2024), MEI is able to determine the top 10 trending tourism destinations worldwide – and APAC countries make up half of the list. Malaysia places 6th on the list, ranking second if taking only the APAC destinations into consideration. It places ahead of Australia (7th), South Korea (8th) and Indonesia (10th). Meanwhile, Japan takes the top spot, with a growth of 0.9%. Travellers from Asia made up 79.4% of the country’s total passenger traffic by the end of 2023. It also received 3,081,600 international visitors in March 2024. Longer stays Aside from receiving more visits, APAC countries – excluding Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) – have also been seeing longer stays and higher spending by tourists. As of March 2024, travellers to APAC are extending their trips by an average of 1.2 days. This sums up to a total duration of 7.4 days, which compares to the 2019 average of 6.1 days. Affordability of the destinations, warm weather and favourable exchange rates are the top reasons for the extended stays by tourists from outside APAC, such as the Americas and Europe. Both worldwide and in Asean, travellers are extending by approximately one more day of vacation per trip. Looking at Malaysia specifically, tourists are spending an average of 6.4 days – this shows positive growth, when compared to the average 5.6 days seen pre-Covid-19. When it comes to shopping in Asean markets, tourism spending on casual apparel sees a substantial increase for the period of April 2023 to March 2024. Malaysia recorded a 73.8% increase during the 12 months than the same period last year, but luxury apparel shopping by tourists here saw a lower increase of 47.1%. There is an even greater boost on tourism dining in Asean markets, with Malaysia recording the highest increase in casual dining, totalling 82.8%. It also recorded a 50.4% increase in fine dining. Bali is among top travel destinations for Malaysians. Interestingly, Thailand is the only Asean market that recorded a higher increase in fine dining compared to casual dining, at 42.5% compared to 41.6%, respectively. As a side note, the Thai capital Bangkok currently has more than 30 Michelin-starred restaurants. Thailand is expected to return to its pre-pandemic economic levels by the end of 2024. It has been receiving a higher number of visitors from Asean (19.9% above 2019 levels as of February 2024) countries, South Asia (21.6%) and Europe (1.8%). Visa exemptions in APAC for tourists from China will undoubtedly boost tourism in countries like Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia as well. Especially as outbound travel from mainland China, which now stands at 80.3% of 2019 levels, continues to recover – unimpeded by Chinese tourists’ preference for domestic trips post-pandemic. Experience-focused travels Like most travellers worldwide, Chinese tourists are also prioritising experiences, spending 10% on this in 2024 compared to 7% in 2023. Spending on experiences and nightlife currently makes up 12% of tourism sales, the highest point in the last five years, with Australian tourists being the highest spenders worldwide. Their spending is higher than the global average of 12%, as they spend one of every five dollars (19%) in these categories. “Consumers in the Asia Pacific region have an intense desire and willingness to travel and are becoming increasingly savvy to ensure they get the best value and unforgettable experiences from their trips,” David Mann, chief economist, Asia Pacific, Mastercard, said in a statement. He added that “businesses targeting tourism dollars need to review their current strategies, and shift them if necessary, to maintain their appeal to travellers”. MEI also reported that nine out of 10 of the highest spending days of all time for the cruise and airline industries, respectively, were recorded during the first three months of 2024. Cruise transactions across the globe also saw an 11.8% growth in March 2024 compared to 2019. Malaysia may capitalise on this growing interest in cruises by introducing more enticing cruise packages that let tourists experience the best of what the country has to offer. Meanwhile, MEI’s analysis of flight booking data shows that the top summer destination is Munich, bolstered by the German city’s hosting of the month-long UEFA 2024 football championship (June 14 to July 14). Tokyo places second, while Bali (Indonesia) places sixth and Bangkok places seventh. For Asean travellers, specifically those from Malaysia, Bali is also one of the top three destinations for the period of June to August 2024, alongside Shanghai (China) and Hanoi (Vietnam). Meanwhile, Kuala Lumpur is among the top three destinations for Singaporean travellers, alongside Bangkok and Perth (Australia).

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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Mastercard report shows that Malaysia’s tourism recovery is on track, and was among the trending destinations for 2023-2024.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/17/malaysia-is-among-the-top-trending-tourist-destinations-in-asia

Fan Bingbing is interested in experiencing life in Malaysia: 'I would like to live in Kuala Lumpur'

Melaka Friendship Tourism Ambassador 2024 Fan Bingbing described the role as a heavy responsibility to bear and also a stroke of luck. Fan stated that Melaka is a unique tourist destination, unlike most famous tourist spots. "For me, it is truly an honour to be appointed as the Melaka Friendship Tourism Ambassador 2024. After the Covid-19 pandemic, my mind was very unsettled, and I had not traveled abroad. "However, post-pandemic tourism has become lively again, and people will surely choose places they have never visited before,” she told reporters through a Mandarin interpreter. Fan was appointed to the role to promote Visit Melaka Year 2024 (TMM2024). When asked why she chose Melaka as her travel destination this year, Fan said one of the reasons was the long history between Melaka and China. "Chinese people can relate to Melaka’s culture because Melaka’s history is well-known in China, and many people in Melaka speak Mandarin. "Chinese tourists coming to Malaysia can rest assured the locals here are also fluent in Mandarin. Moreover, Melaka has similarities with Yunnan province in China, as both have a rich history,” she said. Fan said she learned about Malaysia through a colleague, who often spoke about the country, and also expressed her interest in collaborating with other parties in the future. "Malaysia is familiar to me because I have a Malaysian colleague. We have worked together for several years. "I am also interested in experiencing life in Malaysia. If I get the chance, I would like to live in Kuala Lumpur as well and enjoy its tall skyline. "Malaysia has many film directors and talented individuals, so I hope to collaborate with them someday," she said. Fan, who has 63 million followers on Weibo (a social media platform in China similar to X) and 4.1 million followers on Instagram, is often portrayed as the face of Chinese culture on the global stage. She has starred in the Hollywood superhero movie X-Men: Days Of Future Past, as well as French and South Korean films. In 2017, Fan graced the cover of Time magazine and was named one of the 100 Most Influential People. – Bernama

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

The Chinese actress says she learned about Malaysia through a colleague who often spoke about the country.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/17/fan-bingbing-is-interested-in-experiencing-life-in-malaysia-039i-would-like-to-live-in-kuala-lumpur039

Why a better support system is a must to help parents of kids with LLCs

LIFE-LIMITING conditions (LLC) are medical conditions with no reasonable hope for a cure, even with the current advancements in medical science. Certain syndromes that children are born with fall under this category, including cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Parents are usually ill-prepared to have a child with LLC. It is not part of the usual parenting playbook. And changing this script is very difficult, especially when faced with the possibility that their child’s life might be shortened. So, what can parents and family members do? Where can they reach out for help? What can be done by others for such families? These questions were posed to me recently and they got me thinking about services for such concerns. As a society, we are not prepared to face the shortened life of a child. Paediatric palliative care is extremely rare in our healthcare system and even then, it lacks trained professionals to provide effective service. Health professionals themselves often lack the skills to help parents manoeuvre the healthcare system to get support, partly because of the severe shortage of expertise, services and facilities that provide palliative care for children. We know that paediatric palliative care contributes to significant improvements in quality of life not just for children with LLCs but also for their parents, family members, and to some extent, the medical care providers. In the absence of organised palliative care services, what can we do? Global standards I came across a revised paediatric palliative care standards published in 2022 based on a global overview of research in this area. These standards highlight the needs for identifying practical challenges that caregivers, usually parents, go through and addressing them as a system. These challenges are often emotional, cognitive, social and financial, on top of altering family dynamics. Some parents have trouble accepting the diagnosis and prognosis of the disease and experience significant anxiety about the child's future. Such anxiety can also compromise parenting ability or even lead to neglect of the child. Parents may even face exclusion from their career and the family as a whole may experience physical and social isolation. These standards imply that family members should be offered the opportunity to share and discuss their personal feelings and thoughts, so that they can align their needs surrounding the care of a child with LLC. Alignment is key to navigating services as a family. A family is like a ship. As such, open communication is vital so that directions to take are clear and based on shared needs. This is easier said than done but with appropriate support from compassionate professionals with advanced communication skills, it can be achieved. While we may not have an existing support system as a norm, various stakeholders in the country can work together to develop them as recommended by the Global Overview – Paediatric Palliative Care Standards (GO-PPaCs) adopted as the international standards for PPC. These include three broad categories: (1) home care and organised support, (2) siblings and grandparents’ needs, and (3) education and training for healthcare providers. Under home care and organisational support, parents and other family members are provided training on caring for their children at home, whenever possible. Care should also include maintaining social roles of parents and siblings as much as possible to maximise quality of life, given that being a full-time caregiver erodes a person's social connections. All these would have extra financial commitments that should also be addressed. Overall, a systemic approach is necessary. It was also acknowledged that the suffering of siblings and grandparent are often underestimated in the process of tending to children with LLCs. As such, there is a need for healthcare providers and relevant stakeholders to engage in interprofessional collaborations towards the well-being of families living with children who are facing real risk of a shortened life. This means having interdisciplinary education in palliative care. Parents' needs For parents who are caring for children with LLC, their needs often revolve around communication with health professionals and for them to have freedom of choice, shared decision-making about their child’s care and their need for information, especially to access financial support. Research show that parents often seek open, honest and comprehensive communication, and they encourage collaborations with health professionals and the palliative care team. A lack of compassion and open communication can contribute to heightened grief after death. Compassion also involves respecting and empowering parents with having choices to make, such as determining their child’s place of death. It is a very difficult conversation for many people, but research show that such a degree of preparedness helps in managing grief. Often, families have difficulties getting relevant informational resources. These include basic knowledge of their roles as caregivers and what palliative care means for their child with LLC. Parents reported appreciating practical information such as how they can align with the palliative care team on symptom management and emergency measures, as well as holistic knowledge on the condition of their child so that they can better manage expectations. Overall, their common needs revolve around practical issues such as dealing with work demands and the impact of caregiving such as lifestyle changes, income decline and financial stress of healthcare. Areas of life such as transport and housekeeping feature significantly in their practical needs. Such demands open up major vulnerabilities in parents that can leave the whole family disempowered and exhausted. This is where we can set up community resources to offer some support, at least in housekeeping such as cooking, cleaning, doing the laundry, grocery shopping and also providing transportation. All these can help parents significantly. Many parents neglect their own well-being as caregivers, and practical assistance helps caregivers get some respite and keep them from caregiving burnout. Aside from practical support, parents and family members would certainly appreciate psychosocial as well as spiritual support to address the sense of frustration and powerlessness as well as feelings of isolation and being trapped as a caregiver. Such support can help with healthy coping skills, resilience and sense of self-efficacy, self-worth and hope. These have been shown to help with emotional difficulties that manifest, including anxiety, fear, shame, guilt, anger and grief. Focusing on growth helps us move pass potentially traumatic experiences of anticipatory loss and actual loss. A major factor of resilience is progressively building social networks to maintain psychosocial needs. As a society, it would be very helpful to create support systems for such an invisible but substantial need. We also need more informational resource platforms; research show that sometimes information on what’s available is enough to provide a sense of comfort and empowerment to caregivers since they know help is available. Let’s generate jobs and skills that provide these parents with practical and psychosocial support. There is so much that we can do, given the lack of resources for caregivers of children with LLCs. We all should lend a hand to create a network of support for those in need. Think about how you can contribute in this area; after all, meaningful and intentional pursuits are what contribute to satisfaction in life. Dr Alvin Ng Lai Oon is a professor at the Department of Psychology, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University. He is a clinical psychologist by training and is passionate in promoting mental health literacy in the community.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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As a society, we are not prepared to face the shortened life of a child; paediatric palliative care is extremely rare in our healthcare system and even then, it lacks trained professionals to provide effective service.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/17/why-a-better-support-system-is-a-must-to-help-parents-of-kids-with-llcs

A debut fantasy novel that opens portals to other worlds

Books are often seen as a doorway into new worlds through our imaginations. But what if there was a book that could literally transport you anywhere in the world? In British author Gareth Brown’s recently released debut novel, The Book Of Doors, that’s precisely what unassuming bookstore worker Cassie discovers when she comes across a magical book with that very power on one snowy, life-changing night in New York City. The titular tome, inscribed with the words “Any door is every door”, can whisk whoever possesses it to wherever their heart desires, but such a coveted ability comes with a price – it puts Cassie within the sights of ruthless “book collectors” who would kill to get their hands on the book. Subconscious magic For Brown, however, who had written the book during the peak of the pandemic, the story was the embodiment of his own desire to escape from the confines of his home, located outside Edinburgh in Scotland. “I’ve actually had the idea about a book that acts as a portal to anywhere for a long time, but I’d always imagined it set in a fantasy setting, like with swords and sorcery. But then during the lockdown, while I was sitting in my wee room working all day, I suddenly thought, ‘what if I take this book and put it in the real world?’ and things just naturally flowed from that,” says Brown in a recent interview in Kuala Lumpur. Despite holding a full-time job with the National Health Service as the director of screening for Scotland, Brown managed to write the book in about three and a half months – a pace even he acknowledges was remarkably fast. “I had more time and more space then, which gave me the capacity to write. So I made sure to block out an hour every evening or half a day each weekend to write. But I also think it was just one of these things that was meant to be – it was the right novel at the right time and it wrote itself. There was a sort of subconscious magic to it all,” says Brown. That’s not to say that The Book Of Doors was his first attempt at writing a novel. “I’ve known that I wanted to become a writer from a young age, so I’ve written lots of bad novels over the last 20 years. They’ve remained unpublished, but you have to write bad novels in order to write good ones,” he adds. ‘It was the right novel at the right time and it wrote itself. There was a sort of subconscious magic to it all,’ says Brown during a recent visit to Kuala Lumpur. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin “The Book Of Doors is definitely the best thing I’ve written so far, but that’s not to say other things I’ve written weren’t good – you could say that the book through which I got my agent served its purpose, so even if it’s never published, it’s done something for me. Every other book that I’ve written along the way, I’ve gained something or I’ve learned how to write better. “As long as you’re writing something that’s better than the last thing you wrote, you’re improving as a writer. I definitely couldn’t have written The Book Of Doors if I hadn’t written all the rubbish ones before it. It’s a progression,” he says. For those reluctant to leave the world and characters featured in The Book Of Doors behind after turning the last page, you’ll be glad to hear that Brown plans to write a sequel, which he’s just begun writing. The book has also been optioned for a TV series. “There’s a production company in the US that’s currently working on it and they’ve got a showrunner, which sounds optimistic. So, fingers crossed!” Malaysian connection Brown, 47, is no stranger to Malaysia, thanks to his wife May, who is Malaysian. “Back in the early days of the Internet, there were these things called ‘talkers’ (online virtual worlds where multiple users could chat in real-time), which were basically the predecessor to chat rooms. May and I were on the same talker, so we just started chatting and became friends,” says Brown, telling the story of how they met. Then when May was on a holiday to visit a friend who was living in England, she dropped by Scotland and Brown acted as a tour guide for May and her friends, taking them around to see the sights. “We stayed in touch, and later she came to Edinburgh to do her Master’s, where we ended up living together because I had a spare room. And the rest, as they say, is history,” he says. The couple currently live in Scotland with two “highly excitable” Skye terriers, but they do try to come back to Malaysia for a visit every year. “I love Malaysia, but I probably love the food more than anything else,” he admits with a laugh. “I’ve been to a lot of countries and Malaysian food is, to me, the best food in the world, because you get a diverse mix of Malay, Indian and Chinese cuisines and all of it comes together so well.” Brown even lists off some classic favourites: curry laksa, char kueh teow and roti canai. “I love the 24-hour eating culture here. It could be two in the morning, but you can still go to a mamak stall,” he says. So where would he go if he ever found himself in possession of the Book of Doors? “I like travelling, but I hate being on airplanes and I hate airports. So it’d be great if me and my wife could just pop over to Malaysia for lunch and see family for a bit, then go for a walk around Tokyo or New York. Just visit places we’ve been to before without the hassle of long-haul travel, that’s what I would do. Every day, we would go somewhere else,” he concludes. Isn’t that the dream?

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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British author Gareth Brown discusses his debut novel, 'The Book Of Doors', the magic of writing, and why Malaysia holds a special place in his heart

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/17/a-debut-fantasy-novel-that-opens-portals-to-other-worlds

Finding the perfect purebred pup

When searching for a canine companion, choosing a purebred dog is just one of the many decisions to be made. There are plenty of reasons to choose a purebred, such as predictability, training, socialisation and expert care. Once you have made the decision to purchase a purebred dog and determined what breed is right for you and your family, the next step is to choose the right breeder. The American Kennel Club shares tips for finding a responsible breeder. > Watch out for how the breeder markets their puppies: It is important to take note of the language the breeder uses to market their pups. For example, a toy-dog breeder should not market their puppies as “teacup”. This is not a term that should be used to classify the size of a dog and is usually achieved by breeding the runts of the litters, which can often lead to health problems with the puppies. > Take a trip to the breeders’ home or kennel: Visiting the premises is a chance for you to get a feel of the conditions the puppies are raised in. Pay attention: Is the home/kennel kept tidy, do the puppies look clean, well-fed and friendly? Be sure to look for signs of malnutrition or illness, like runny noses/eyes, sores, lethargy. > Meet the puppy’s parent(s): When visiting the home/kennel, at least one of the puppy’s parents should be on site. Make sure you observe the parent(s) and pay close attention to the dog’s appearance and temperament. This will help you get a good idea of what your puppy will be like as an adult dog. > Are they informative and honest? A responsible breeder should care deeply about the health and genetics of the puppies they breed. They should have extensive knowledge about breed-specific genetic diseases that could affect your puppy, and should be informative and honest about the physical and temperamental traits of the breed. > Observe the relationship between the breeder and puppies: Be sure to look closely at how the breeder interacts with the puppies and vice versa. Pay attention if they get nervous or shy away from the breeder or any people they meet. > Consistent and helpful: A responsible breeder should be a great resource to you throughout the entire life of the puppy. They should make you feel comfortable with asking questions and should also ask you several questions to make sure their puppy is going to a good home. – Tribune News Service/American Kennel Club For more information on responsible breeders, visit the AKC website at akc.org.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Purebred dogs,dog breeds,dog breeder

Once you have made the decision to purchase a purebred dog and determined what breed is right for you and your family, the next step is to choose the right breeder.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/17/finding-the-perfect-purebred-pup

'Wedding events have become more extreme': Dress code not optional

When Lauren and Jackson England tied the knot with a safari wedding in Ranthambore, India, in January, they wanted the dress code to reflect the surroundings. The mood they communicated to their guests was “classic heritage Ralph Lauren”. “I am an aesthetic person, and we had a clear vision for the hero image we wanted to create on the safari Jeep,” Jackson England, 37, said, referring to their primary wedding portrait (he and Lauren England are founders of a content and production company in Sydney, Australia). “It was important to me that guests followed our colour palette.” According to him, their creative friends had fun with it in the end, but their mothers were a bit overwhelmed. Lauren England, 40, said that they didn’t want anyone to feel pressure, so they “informed everyone three months in advance, and had discussions with them on what could work”, adding that they also chose the dress code of “colours of India” for a pre-wedding event in Jaipur that doubled as her 40th birthday party. They used campaign imagery from designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee to illustrate this theme. The Englands aren’t the only ones directing the aesthetic of their wedding. Earlier this year, nine pages of wardrobe guidance were given to guests for a multiday pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar, India, for Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani, the youngest son of one of the world’s richest men. Read more: 'Make me look like a disco ball': The rise of non-traditional bridal fashion “Jungle fever”, “dazzling Desi romance” and “heritage Indian" were among the themes, and the document, which included runway photos and designer campaign images for inspiration, listed the expected weather conditions for the event. Dress codes for their more recent pre-wedding celebration, a multiday cruise in Europe from May 29 to June 1, included “classic cruise”, “tourist chic" and “Italian summer”. “Weddings today are designed within an inch of their life,” said Sarah Haywood, a wedding planner in London. “These mood boards help communicate the destination, venue and event design so that guests can be dressed appropriately.” Anny Choi, a stylist in New York, has seen a rise in requests to create mood boards for wedding guests. She said that while the couples want guests to wear what they are comfortable in, they also want everyone to look cohesive. Some weddings are drawing inspiration from highly glamorous and sometimes themed events like red carpets, fashion shows and the Met Gala, which has become known for its own unconventional dress codes like “Camp: Notes On Fashion” and this year’s “The Garden Of Time”. “Wedding events have become more extreme. It’s not just a welcome party but an all-white party. It’s not just a poolside brunch but a ‘tropical extravaganza’ or a ‘Slim Aarons-themed’ party,” Choi said. “If your vision is so specific, the more information and guidelines you can give your guests, the better.” Swathi Narra, an entrepreneur and real estate developer from New Orleans, has been a guest at multiple weddings with dress codes, ranging in theme from “denim and diamonds” and “vintage Bollywood” to “Texas hoedown”. Narra, 43, said she finds dress codes to be one way to get excited about the wedding, but cautioned against couples making it obligatory or overly prescriptive. “I wouldn’t want them to dictate a very specific silhouette to wear,” she said. Ayushi Dalmia, an art director in Toronto, decided to do away with any dress codes for her two-day wedding in Lonavala, India, in February 2023, which surprised her friends. Dalmia, 35, said she received many calls asking for a wardrobe planning document, because “it has become par for the course”. Haywood, the wedding planner, added that the popularity of these mood boards varies in different parts of the world. “It’s more prevalent in Asia and South Asia in my experience, but we are starting to see more of it in the West.” The guidance can be helpful when guests are unfamiliar with cultural elements, too. “Guests will need cues and recommendations when customs and clothing of a different community are involved,” Choi said. She pointed to a “surf shack sangeet” welcome party in the Maldives for clients of hers in Singapore with Indian-Australian-Chinese roots. Read more: Wearing sneakers to his wedding, Rupert Murdoch draws fierce fashion scrutiny The couple gave guests a mood board that declared the theme “Jaipur meets Maldives”, and said men should wear kurtas, which they would provide, while women should come in “Indian-inspired looks” or “chic caftans”. The couple added that they would provide accessories. But problems arise when the couple is purely driven by online optics and visibility, Choi said. “For some brides and grooms, this has a lot to do with Instagram,” she added. “In such cases, everyone is simply trying to outdo each other.” “Couples shouldn’t treat guests as props for their big days or mere spectators as they put on a show,” Narra said in agreement. “These things aren’t supposed to be that serious, right?” – The New York Times

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2024-06-15 00:00:00

fashion,trends,bridalwear

Some weddings are even drawing inspiration from highly glamorous and sometimes themed events like red carpets and fashion shows, or the Met Gala, known for having its own unconventional dress codes.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/15/039wedding-events-have-become-more-extreme039-dress-code-not-optional

Challenges and triumphs: Parents share stories about kids with special needs

LIKE many fathers, hotel technician Mohd Azizi Mohamed, 47, does school run with his son, Muhammad Aqiel Amni, 17, and daughter, Nur Athirah, 12, before he goes to work and after they're done at school. But unlike many fathers, those trips involve carrying his teenagers onto their wheelchair and stroller, putting them into his car, driving to their school, lifting them up again and pushing them to their classrooms. He repeats every step in reverse when he picks them up in the afternoon to send them home. "Unless you are in my shoe, it's quite impossible to imagine the time and effort needed to transport two teenagers with cerebral palsy (CP) to school everyday," he says in an interview at his low-cost apartment in Kampung Kerinchi, where he lives with his wife, Nor Ashikin Abdul Hamid, 46, their eldest daughter, Nur Aqielah Auni, 17, (who is also Muhammad Aqiel's twin), and her two siblings. Before 2018, the labour was divided between him and Nor Ashikin. But that year, she had a stroke that left her right side weak. She spent a month at the Cheras Rehabilitation Hospital and although she could now walk and move, she no longer has the strength to lift her child. Muhammad Aqiel and Nur Athirah have dystonic CP, a lifelong condition that consists of repetitive and patterned movements that are sustained, like twisting of the limbs and trunk. While Muhammad Aqiel is independent – he can bathe, get dressed and eat by himself – Nur Athirah needs help for everything. "Aqiel moves by crawling around the house, but Athirah can only lie down or sit on her custom-built chair," Azizi says. Nur Ashikin used to work in a firefighting agency, but decided to quit when Nur Athirah was diagnosed with CP at nine months old. Mohd Azizi says the task of taking care of Aqiel and Nur Athirah gets harder as they grow bigger and heavier, while he and his wife are getting older and grappling with their own health problems.“But our children are our source of strength. They give us purpose and hope,” he says. “Although from the naked eye, it looks like they need us, in fact, it is us who need them more. They teach us patience, strength and resilience with their fighting spirit and zest for life,” Mohd Azizi says. Nur Aqielah pushing her sister Nur Athirah during a running event. — MOHD AZIZI MOHAMED Bundle of strength Mother-of-two Intan Suryani Sohaimi, 37, also draws strength from her children – Harraz Fahmie, eight, and Hana Safiyyah, five. Hana Safiyyah was born with craniosynostosis, a disorder that causes her skull to fuse prematurely, along with other in-utero complications. “Watching her fight for her life at the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and getting my son’s assurance that he understands the need for us to spend more time with his sister were much-needed boost for my spirit,” Intan Suryani says. “I was at the verge of going into depression back then; my mind toyed with questions on how she would grow up with her condition and what I did wrong during my pregnancy,” she adds. “The doctor also detected that she had scoliosis and cleft lip palate,” says Intan Suryani, adding that over time, the list of Hana’s health problems grew longer. She admits that the whirlwind of emotions and challenges that followed Hana Safiyyah’s birth took their toll on her spirit and emotions, but the former software engineer says she has accepted her fate and will help Hana Safiyyah live her best life. Nor Madinah Talib, 30, knows too well what Intan Suryani goes through. She too, found strength and courage from her first born, Muhammad Ukasyah, three, who was only a month old when doctors diagnosed him with cerebral palsy. In addition to that, he also has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), seizures, dystonia, swallowing difficulties and stiff muscles, along with respiratory problems. “Seeing him so strong despite his conditions shows me what strength really means and why I refuse to let his diagnosis define him. Instead, I will ensure he lives his life to the fullest,” says the mother-of-two from Kuala Lumpur. Ukasyah’s fighting spirit, she adds, solidifies her and her husband, Mohd Erdiean Syah Mohammad's, bond in looking after their family's well-being. The couple also has a nine-month-old daughter, Nur Erdeena. Intan Suryani (left) draws strength from her children. She is pictured with her husband Mohd Zulfekri and their children Harraz Fahmie and Hana Safiyyah. — INTAN SURYANI SOHAIMI Financial challenges Mohd Azizi says as parents to disabled children, it is their duty to give these children their time and energy. "It’s our duty as parents; and we do it out of love and gratitude for having them in our lives." When his wife quit her RM2,000-a-month job, he knew he had to work doubly hard to make ends meet for the family. With the city’s high cost of living, his RM3,000 take home salary is barely enough to support his family, let alone cover the additional expenses for his two children who require extra care, including medication, diapers, milk and wet tissues. “Every month, we allocate RM1,500 for their needs. But sometimes, it exceeds our budget, especially when they fall sick,” he adds. To earn more, Mohd Azizi does electrical work during his off days or whenever the opportunity arises. “Caring for a child with cerebral palsy – or any other disability or long-term illness – is expensive. The cost for medical equipment, therapies and other essentials can quickly add up,” says Nor Madinah. Like Mohd Azizi, her 30-year-old husband who is in the civil service, also does part-time jobs to boost their monthly finances. While she was in confinement after delivering Ukasyah, Nor Madinah resigned from her job as a business development executive. “He constantly cried and wanted to be held. His GERD made him threw up often which made feeding him difficult,” she says, adding that his developmental milestones are similar to those typically achieved by a two-month-old infant. For four years, Intan Suryani juggled her time between work, home and hospital to help her husband, Mohd Zulfekri Mazlan, 42, financially. But the countless hospital visits stretch their resources thin, and they also had to take unpaid leave from work. “That affected our performance as well,” says Intan Suryani, “and sometimes I had to bring my job to the hospital while taking care of her in the ward.” When Hana Safiyyah’s condition deteriorated last year, Intan Suryani made the decision to resign from her 10-year job as a software engineer. “When her condition worsened, quitting (employment) was the only way to ensure the best possible care for my family,” she says. Nor Madinah and her son, Muhammad Ukasyah. — NOR MADINAH TALIB Difficult moments Last year, Hana Safiyyah had four major surgeries in one day to help her breathe without any assistance, relieve pressure and drain fluid from her ears, treat her intestinal malrotation and insert a tube through her abdomen into her stomach. Even though her daughter has had a major surgery when she was just barely a year old, Intan Suryani says, it doesn't get any easier. “Sending her to the operation theatre for these surgeries were the most difficult moments for me. Knowing that she didn’t know what was going to happen to her left me feeling dreadful, and going back and forth to the hospital while she was in the PICU was a very difficult time,” she says. Ukasyah was only 11 days old when his doctor declared him dead-in-line (DIL) due to multiorgan failure. “All we could do was surrender everything to the Almighty after we signed the DIL letter,” Nor Madinah says. Although Ukasyah remained conscious throughout the critical phase, he suffered severe brain damage as a result of the condition. A couple of months ago, Nor Madinah and her husband faced another trial when their son was admitted to the PICU for 73 days. “He was affected by Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, a rare and serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, triggered by his seizure medication,” Nor Madinah says. It was different for Mohd Azizi. Life gave him a rude shock when he was diagnosed with colon cancer just a year after his wife’s stroke. “Alhamdulillah, Allah eased everything for us. My wife is now improving and can manage herself, although she is weaker and slower, and I am now undergoing post-surgery follow-up treatment," he says. “Throughout those trying moments, we only had our children in mind. They were our motivation to recover and stay healthy. We are also thankful that there are people who had helped us throughout that period,” Mohd Azizi adds. Celebrating the journey But despite their challenges, these families celebrate the journey and cherish each day. "Finding the silver living and celebrating these small wins are important to keep our spirits up," he says.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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Their children, they say, are their sources of strength; teaching them patience, strength and resilience with their fighting spirit and zest for life.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/family/2024/06/17/challenges-and-triumphs-parents-share-stories-about-kids-with-special-needs

'We love you, Papa': Young British royals' Father's Day message for Prince William

The three young children of British heir-to-the-throne Prince William and his wife Kate released a Father's Day message and photograph on Sunday, saying "We love you, Papa". The photo shows the three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, hugging William on a beach, with the photograph taken from behind as they all look out to sea. The caption says the photo was taken by Kate and reads: "We love you, Papa. Happy Father's Day," followed by two red hearts and G, C & L. The photograph was released a day after Kate, Britain's Princess of Wales, was seen in public for the first time since she revealed she was undergoing treatment for cancer. Kate, William and the children joined King Charles and other members of the royal family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace after watching a military parade to celebrate the monarch's official birthday. The princess, 42, spent two weeks in hospital in January after she underwent major abdominal surgery. Two months later she announced in a video message that tests had revealed the presence of cancer and she was receiving preventative chemotherapy. She is still undergoing treatment, but she said in a statement on Friday that she was able to attend the "Trooping the Colour" event because she was making good progress, although she noted that she was "not out of the woods" yet. In a separate post on Sunday, the couple shared a photograph of William as a child playing football with his father, Charles. – Reuters

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

The photo shows the three children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six, hugging William on a beach, with the photograph taken from behind as they all look out to sea.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/entertainment/2024/06/17/039we-love-you-papa039-young-british-royals039-father039s-day-message-for-prince-william

Embark on your birding adventure in Malaysia with these tips

Having close to 900 bird species, of which 91 are either endemic or near endemic (source: Malaysia – Birdwatching Paradise ebrochure), Malaysia’s expansive rainforests serve as a great destination for birdwatching. In fact, the country is one of the most popular places in South-East Asia for this activity. Among the endemic birds residing here are the Bornean crested fireback, Malayan peacock-pheasant, black-crowned pitta, friendly bush warbler and white-fronted falconet. These can be spotted in some of the country’s 55 “Important Bird And Biodiversity Areas” or IBAs, based on internationally recognised criteria outlined by BirdLife Partnership, which is a global partnership of conservation groups and organisations that focus on bird conservation and biodiversity. Some of the IBAs in Malaysia include Mount Kinabalu and the Danum Valley in Sabah, as well as the Central Titiwangsa Range in Perak and Selangor. Tourism Malaysia, together with Ecotourism & Conservation Society Malaysia (Ecomy), are currently working on promoting the country as the preferred birding destination in the region not just for seasoned birders, but for amateurs who are interested in the experience too. “For folks who want to embark on a ‘birding journey’, you do not have to stray far from home,” said Penang-born Choy Wai Mun, 50. Choy has been birding for more than 30 years. Choy has been fond of animals since he was a young boy, and said that it was his love for wildlife that sparked his interest in birding. In fact, he said that it was a single birding trip when he was still a teenager that got him hooked on the hobby. From there, birding became a weekly routine for him. These days, though, he is only able to go on a birding excursion once a month, but he makes sure the experience is worthwhile. For amateurs, he advised: “Start by going to the nearby parks and gardens. You should familiarise yourself with the common birds before venturing further ahead. This is also to see if the hobby really is for you.” Choy added that “birds are everywhere”, so you really do not have to wander far, or go to particular spots, to find them. This advice is supported by Afiq Abdul Rahman, 33, who has discovered over 158 species around his home in Sungai Buaya, Selangor. Afiq started his birding adventure in 2019, when he participated in a bird race held in Putrajaya. “Regardless of where you are, you are bound to encounter some birds. My amazing discovery of birds in my backyard was mostly aided by field guides.” Hence, Afiq believes a guide book is essential, even more so for individuals who are just starting to get into birding. Black-tailed godwit gracing the vast skies. — AFIQ ABDUL RAHMAN He said, “Books are the best teachers, as they are packed with information. A guide will not only be handy when it comes to identifying the birds, but it can also gear you up for your exploration.” Other than guide books, you should invest in a pair of binoculars, too, which allows you to admire the birds from afar. A notebook is also needed to jot down – or sketch – which birds you have seen. A supplementary “birding tool” is a voice recorder, which is useful for both amateurs and experienced birders. Birds are typically quite talkative, so even if you don’t see them, you are most likely going to hear them. “Interestingly, these melodious bird calls (or bird songs) are not just soothing to the ear, they can also tell you the identity of the birds. There are apps, such as Merlin, that can help you distinguish the birds through their calls,” Afiq shared. Chestnut-necklaced partridge is a ground bird. Join a group There is no better way to learn about birding than joining a group where you get to meet like-minded people and exchange experiences, Choy said. “Organisations like the Malaysian Nature Society and Wild Bird Club Of Malaysia are beneficial, as you can gain a better understanding of the activity from the birding community,” he noted. Afiq, who is now the secretary of the Nature Sustainable Ecosystem Society (Nest), has first-hand experiences of how becoming a part of a group helped shape him into the birder he is today. “It has provided me a platform to participate in birding activities, including bird surveys, bird races and even book publications. On top of that, I also get invited to give talks about birds,” said Afiq, who has managed to record a whopping 622 feathered animals in Malaysia. Nest (www.nestsociety.com) is a non-profit organisation focusing on nature education, largely through data collection, events, bird photography and birdwatching, as well as sharing sessions in schools and with the community. Like Ecomy, Nest is also working with Tourism Malaysia to promote the country as a premiere birding destination. Blyth’s paradise flycatcher is among the various birds found in Malaysia. — AFIQ ABDUL RAHMAN Essential tips One key aspect that should be factored in when you are birding is the colour of your outfit. Both Afiq and Choy agreed that only clothes in neutral or Earth tones should be worn during these expeditions. “Birds are highly sensitive to the changes in their environment, so it’s important to blend in as much as you can to prevent unwanted attention. An approaching birder will not go unnoticed,” Choy advised. Afiq recommended wearing green, grey or blue tones, as bright colours like red and yellow tend to spook the birds – and other animals for that matter. The birders said to steer away from wearing white as it reflects light, which can scare off the birds. They also said that right after dawn and late afternoons are the best times to go birding. “The birds are most active in the morning. Late afternoons can be quite rewarding as well, as that’s when they feed actively to store up energy for the night,” Choy shared. “You should also do some research on what types of birds you want to observe before you head out, as the birds you see will vary depending on the habitats,” Afiq said, referring to the fact that Malaysia has various types of bird habitats, like mangroves and montane forests. Afiq has been birding for over four years now. — AFIQ ABDUL RAHMAN “Where there is water, there are birds,” Afiq added. “If the place has a river, lake or pond, it means you will most certainly find birds there. The presence of food sources (like fruiting trees) also indicates that it’s the right spot for birdwatching.” Recounting one of his avian adventures, which lasted over 217 days, Afiq said he spent a few hours every day out in the woods observing the birds. “On weekdays I did it outside my house after work, while on the weekends, I went into the forest. I recorded many species of our avian friends, such as the grey-breasted babbler, rufous-tailed shama and olive-backed woodpecker,” he revealed. Some of the places in Malaysia that birders can go to are Fraser’s Hill and Taman Negara in Pahang, Bukit Larut in Perak, the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, and of course, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau and Sandakan in Sabah. Choy said that one of the most fulfilling birding experiences he has ever had was an encounter with the rare garnet pitta in the pristine forest of Taman Negara. Choy came across a magnificent garnet pitta on one of his birding trips at Sungai Relau. — CHOY WAI MUN “To see a pitta in the wild is rewarding. The vivid colouration of the bird burning like a beacon in the night is a vision etched permanently into my memory,” he said. Choy has also gone birding overseas, particularly in Japan, Cambodia and Australia. Meanwhile, Afiq recommends checking out eBird, a mobile application that has a list of birding hotspots near your location. It can also be used to seamlessly record the birds you see. If you want to spice up your own birding experience then try going out at night. Birding at night offers a different kind of excitement, said Choy. “Trekking through the forest with only a torchlight and good ol’ faith to document a large frogmouth proclaiming its territory in the darkness was undoubtedly a great experience,” he shared of his own encounter. Choy emphasised that while birding is a fun activity, we must not disturb the birds during these wildlife observations. “The welfare of the birds must always come first,” he concluded.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Malaysia,Taman Negara,Birdwatching,Endemic,Friendly Bush Warbler,Important Bird And Biodiversity Areas,Tawau,Sandakan,Rufous-tailed Shama,Olive-backed Woodpecker,Fraser's Hill,Kuala Selangor Nature Park,Malaysian Nature Society,Wild Bird Club Of Malaysia,tourism,birdwatching,birding

Seasoned Malaysian birders share tips on getting into the hobby of birdwatching.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/17/embark-on-your-birding-adventure-in-malaysia-with-these-tips

Meet Neo Px, the super plant that attacks air pollution

It may look like an innocent green plant, but its name evokes something far closer to a robot or interstellar rocket. Neo Px is a bio-engineered plant capable of purifying indoor air at an unprecedented scale, the first in a potentially long line of such super-powered organisms. "It's the equivalent of up to 30 regular houseplants in terms of air purification," said Lionel Mora, co-founder of startup Neoplants. "It will not only capture, but also remove and recycle, some of the most harmful pollutants you can find indoors." Five years ago, the entrepreneur met Patrick Torbey, a genome editing researcher, who dreamed of creating living organisms "with functions". "There were plants around us, and we thought that the most powerful function we could add to them was to purify the air," said Mora, during a tour of a rented greenhouse in Lodi, California, two hours from San Francisco, in the United States. Protected from the elements, several thousand modified pothos plants, green speckled with white, awaited their turn to be potted, packed and shipped. The French startup began selling its first products in the US in April. The US was a particularly promising first market, since many Americans already widely use air purifiers. "We do our best to send as many plants as possible every week, but it's not enough to meet demand for now," said Mora. Wildfire worry Americans have a keen appreciation for cleaner air given all the recent "problems associated with wildfires", which have become a "bigger and bigger" problem in the country, Mora said. "One of the pollutants that comes from combustion is benzene, which we're targeting," he added. Indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air, according to the US Environmental Protection Agency, mainly due to volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. VOCs are gaseous pollutants that can accumulate indoors and negatively impact air quality and health. Opening windows won't help much because the VOC pollution can come from solvents, glues and paints, and therefore could lurk in cleaning products, furniture and walls. "These chemicals are associated with a range of adverse health effects, including cancer," especially for the young, the elderly and people who are already vulnerable," said Tracey Woodruff, a professor of reproductive sciences at the University of California, San Francisco. "They can bring respiratory-related effects or reproductive health effects... like adverse pregnancy outcomes, preterm birth, miscarriages, as well as neurological disorders like Parkinson's," she said. Neo Px does not itself absorb the chemicals. The plant is sold at a starting price of US$120 (RM565) with packets of powder that contain a microbiome, essentially a bacterial strain. "This bacteria colonises the plant's roots, soil and leaves," said Torbey, the company's chief technology officer, at its research lab in Saint-Ouen, France, just outside Paris.The bacteria "absorbs the VOCs to grow and reproduce. The plant is there to create this ecosystem for the bacteria. So we have a symbiotic system between plants and bacteria", he said.In the future, Neoplants plans to produce genetically modified plants whose metabolism will directly do the work of air purification. And in the longer term, it hopes to tackle problems linked to global warming. "We could increase the capacity of trees to capture CO2," Torbey said. Or "develop seeds that are more resistant to drought", added Mora. Their vision, coupled with the team's scientific expertise, led Google product manager Vincent Nallatamby to invest in the startup from the outset. He now owns his own bacteria-boosted pothos plant, which sits unnoticed in his San Francisco living room, already well-stocked with houseplants of all sizes. "It's more my wife who takes care of them, except this one. This one's me!" he joked, pointing to his Neo Px. "I'm often seduced by technological objects and I want to bring them home," he said. "This was one of the first times I had no trouble convincing my wife." – AFP Relaxnews

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

Neo Px is a bio-engineered plant capable of purifying indoor air at an unprecedented scale, the first in a potentially long line of such super-powered organisms.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2024/06/17/meet-neo-px-the-super-plant-that-attacks-air-pollution

Seniors, increase your step count for better health

In today’s world, where step counters are commonly found in mobile phones and other handheld devices, tracking your steps and walking distance offers a valuable measure of your fitness and exercise efforts. However, this metric is meaningful only if you have a valid baseline for comparison. A common question arises: how many steps should you take in a day? The widely-promoted idea that the average person should aim for 10,000 steps daily is more rooted in marketing than science. This notion originated from a 1960s Japanese pedometer marketing campaign and has since been perpetuated by American fitness gadgets. While 10,000 steps is the default goal on many fitness trackers, its validity is often questioned. ALSO READ: Is 10,000 daily steps really the magic number for better health? A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine, focused on older women to address how many steps per day seniors should aim for to maintain their health. Researchers monitored 17,000 participants with an average age of 72, using fitness trackers during their daily routines. They found that for these women, walking about 4,000 steps each day significantly boosted longevity and health. Participants who averaged 4,400 steps per day were 40% less likely to die in the following months and years than those who took just 2,700 steps. ALSO READ: Walk 4,000 steps a day to get away from early death Notably, the health benefits peaked at 7,500 steps per day, with no additional benefits beyond that point. For younger individuals, 10,000 steps per day might be insufficient. To lose weight or prevent weight gain, younger people might need to aim for as many as 15,000 steps per day. ALSO READ: Walking 10,000 steps doesn't help with weight loss However, for older adults, this target is often unrealistic. Simple and easy activity Regular physical activity is crucial at any age, especially as you get older. Walking is a low-strain activity that healthy older adults can do regularly without needing special equipment or structured environments. A study in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that healthy older adults typically take between 2,000 and 9,000 steps per day. This study also explored whether more intense workouts benefited older adults, concluding that increasing walking speed to 100 steps per minute for 30 minutes each day could provide various significant health benefits by adding an additional 3,000 steps daily. Here are some of the health benefits of walking: Heart health Regular walking helps improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels and enhancing circulation. Weight management Walking burns calories, which helps in maintaining a healthy weight or aiding weight loss. Bone and muscle strength Walking is a weight-bearing exercise that strengthens bones and muscles, thus reducing the risk of osteoporosis and muscle loss. Mental health Physical activity, including walking, releases endorphins that improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Diabetes management Walking helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk of this chronic disease. Mobility and balance Regular walking enhances balance and coordination, thus reducing the risk of falls. Adjusting step goals While 2,000 to 9,000 steps is a good general target, some seniors might need to adjust this based on their own individual circumstances: 5,000 to 7,000 steps per day This range can still offer significant health benefits, particularly for seniors who may have mobility issues or chronic conditions that make higher step counts challenging. Even within this range, walking can help manage blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and enhance mental well-being. Less than 5,000 steps per day For seniors with severe mobility limitations or health issues, the focus should be on increasing activity levels gradually. It’s important for seniors to consult with their healthcare providers to set personalised step goals. Factors that should be considered include: Current health status Seniors with conditions like arthritis, heart disease or respiratory issues may need tailored advice. Fitness level Those who are already active may aim for higher step counts, while those new to exercise should start slowly. Mobility and balance Ensuring safety is crucial. Using supportive footwear and assistive devices if necessary can help prevent falls and injuries. Daily routine Incorporating walking into daily routines, such as short walks after meals or parking further from store entrances, can make it easier to reach step goals. Increasing step count Even small increases in physical activity can be beneficial. For seniors who have difficulty in moving or serious health issues, starting with a lower step goal and gradually increasing it as their fitness improves is advisable. Here are some tips on how to do so: Start small Begin with achievable goals and gradually increase the step count. Use technology Pedometers, fitness trackers or smartphone apps can help track steps and motivate progress. Incorporate social activities Walking with friends, family or in groups can make the activity more enjoyable and sustainable. Break it up Instead of one long walk, take several shorter walks throughout the day. Choose enjoyable routes Walking in parks, around neighbourhoods or on nature trails can make the activity more pleasant. For older adults looking to improve their health through walking, it’s recommended to set realistic goals. Begin with a few 10-minute walks each day and gradually work up to longer walks or joining walking groups and exploring new parks and trails. For most seniors to maintain health, the key is to find a personalised goal that is safe and achievable. Consulting healthcare providers and gradually increasing activity levels can help seniors enjoy the many benefits of walking. Any increase in daily steps can positively impact overall health and well-being. Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, and a functional medicine practitioner. For further information, email [email protected]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.

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Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar

2024-06-17 00:00:00

Womens World,Walking,exercise,senior health

Walking is a good physical activity that older adults can easily do anywhere for the benefit of their health.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/health/womens-world/2024/06/17/seniors-increase-your-step-count-for-better-health

Fan Bingbing now a fan of Melaka

MELAKA: Actress Fan Bingbing highly recommends durian cendol to tourists from China as a must-try dessert when visiting this historic city. The Chinese superstar said tourists from the Middle Kingdom should not miss the opportunity to indulge in the popular dish heaped with dollops of durian while holidaying here. “I got an insight into Melaka’s past and the story of the Chinese Peranakan. It’s an awesome piece of history. “Melaka is a melting pot of cuisines and flavours, and durian cendol is a must-try delicacy,” she said during a press conference here yesterday. The Visit Melaka Year 2024 ambassador was asked by journalists what she cherished most on her trip to the state, to which Fan said Melaka has a valuable history linked to China. “I felt very relaxed being here and I believe tourists would also experience the same ambience,” she said. Fan added that Chinese tourists would not face a language barrier here as many locals can converse in Mandarin. “This is a unique element for Chinese tourists, especially those bringing their parents on tours, as they can speak in Mandarin compared with some other Asian countries,” she added. The 42-year-old X-Men: Days of Future Past star said Melaka is no stranger to her because her manager Jersey Chong is a Malaysian. “Chong told me a lot about Malaysia that piqued my interest in making a trip here. “I was impressed to see the skyscrapers in Kuala Lumpur. It’s a modern city and Melaka is blessed with a rich history. I will definitely make another trip if there is an opportunity,” she said. When asked about her impression of Melaka men, Fan complimented them as “true gentlemen” and friendly. “It’s a difficult question for me to answer. Anyway, from my brief observation, Melaka men are well-mannered,” she said. Fan also shared her enthusiasm for the Nyonya kebaya, a traditional costume. “It’s so captivating, with bright and colourful embroidery that captured my interest,” she exclaimed. Fan, who took on the role on June 14, also expressed her gratitude for being appointed the Visit Melaka Year ambassador. She described Melaka as a vibrant cultural kaleidoscope with a multi-ethnic identity, providing her with an excellent platform to promote its uniqueness. From 2013 to 2017, Fan was named the highest-paid celebrity in Forbes China’s Celebrity 100 list.In 2014, she joined the Barbie global celebrity Hall of Fame and became China’s first Barbie doll. Fan also appeared on the Vanity Fair Best-Dressed List in 2015 and 2016. In 2017, she was listed by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential individuals.

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2024-06-17 00:00:00

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MELAKA: Actress Fan Bingbing highly recommends durian cendol to tourists from China as a must-try dessert when visiting this historic city.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/06/17/fan-bingbing-now-a-fan-of-melaka

Rising displacement spurs questions with 'Inflatable Refugee' in Barcelona

Hugging his knees and clad in a bright orange life vest, the giant "Inflatable Refugee” looks vulnerable as he sits alone in a sea of empty red velvet chairs. Belgian visual artists Schellekens & Peleman, who created the figure in 2015 following the refugee crisis in Europe, have brought the installation to Barcelona's Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house in hopes of once again calling attention to the plight of refugees. The 6m (20-foot) -tall inflatable figure, made of the same material as the delicate rubber boats used by smugglers to send migrants to European shores, will be on public display for opera goers until June 28 in the theatre's hall of mirrors. The artists hope that its outsize dimensions will force people to reflect about their perception of asylum seekers. "Its size represents how the Western world perceives him. So you could ask yourself is it a big opportunity or a big problem?” said Dirk Schellekens in Barcelona. The artistic intervention coincides with an alarming number: 120 million people around the world have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to conflict and other protracted crises, the UN refugee agency announced on Thursday. That's equivalent to the population of Japan. In Sudan alone, more than 10 million people have been displaced by the ongoing civil war. Other conflicts that are still raging in places such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar and Syria continue to wreak havoc, UNHCR said. In Gaza, where the brutal war between Israel and Hamas has entered its ninth month, 75% of the population is essentially homeless. While the vast majority of displaced people remain within their nation's borders, 43 million men, women and children have sought refuge in other countries and require international protection, the agency said. Migration has long been politicised in Europe, including by far-right parties that made significant gains in the most recent European parliamentary elections. But the majority of refugees are hosted by low- and middle-income countries. "What concerns me most is the instrumentalisation that some politicians have carried out in respect of refugees and, by the way, migrants as well,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi told AP. "Depicting them as a threat, as people that come to steal jobs, to threaten values, to undermine security, is so worrying in so many ways ... and often extremely racist.” - AP

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

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The 6m-tall inflatable figure, made from the same material as the boats used by smugglers, will be on public display for opera goers in Barcelona until June 28

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/16/rising-displacement-spurs-questions-with-039inflatable-refugee039-in-barcelona

Humanity’s soundtrack: How music has influenced society

WHEN was the last time music made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, sent a chill down your spine or gave you goosebumps all over? Whether it’s a full-body rush from joining in an outdoor choir of 58,000 Swifties at Levi’s Stadium or a shudder from the evocative tension that’s made Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings cinema’s unofficial mourning song, those moments spark a psychophysiological phenomenon or frisson. The first time that intoxicating sensation rattled Jeremy Wagner – a composer, lecturer and the technical director of the Center for New Music & Audio Technologies at University of California (UC) Berkeley – was during high school, when he was flooded with emotion while listening to the orchestral swells in the Beatles’ 1967 track A Day in the Life. This physical reaction is commonly associated with a fear response in the animal kingdom – puffing up fur, for example, to fend off predators or keep warm. But Wagner said dynamic musical changes in melody, pitch, tone and rhythm can trigger a more evolved or even subtler form of that same mechanism in humans, replicating that same bodily tingling during moments of awe, sadness, thrill or novelty. “For me, the feeling of frisson is most profound when you have that sense of awe, when you’re in the presence of something that is spectacular or difficult to access. Some people might call it the ‘divine’ or something bigger than yourself,” Wagner, 43, said. “The artistry at work is what’s causing the experience of awe, leading to that physiological response.” Wagner leads a course at UC Berkeley that analyses the exact oddities that lie at the nexus of music and perception. Researchers have uncovered many reasons why and how music is so integral to life as we know it. Musical styles and artistes that are enjoyed as a child, for example, often influence lifelong music tastes, largely because those songs were introduced at a time when brains are the most “plastic” and able to make connections. However, there’s still a lot of unknowns shrouding what feels like such a deeply innate part of being human. Brain illustration Wagner said that while brain imaging can illustrate which parts of the brain are active, for example, when people listen to music and feel frisson, medical scans fail to fully explain why the experience is enjoyable. Yet, he said, those unknowables can still act as stepping stones that guide intuitional understanding of why we enjoy music. “When you’re looking at this data in the brain, a single cubic millimetre has hundreds of thousands of neurons participating, so the fact that something is lighting up might give us a hint at what’s going on, but it’s not really telling us the whole story,” he said. “There’s this horizon beyond which it’s kind of difficult to know anything for certain, so I try to emphasise intuition.” One thing is certain: Music has been a facet of civilisation for tens of thousands of years. Researchers have discovered ancient artifacts, such as bones that were hollowed out and carved with holes – not dissimilar to a modern-day flute. Daniel Levitin, a rocker-turned-neuroscientist who grew up in Moraga, has delved deep into the evolutionary forces behind our brains’ ability to translate music into meaning, a development that has shaped the history of humanity in the process. Two of his New York Times bestselling books – This Is Your Brain On Music and The World in Six Songs – collectively explain how the mind is a natural change detector. It crafts understanding of the world by searching for patterns and connecting feelings to memories. Starts in childhood Starting by age five, he says, children can typically identify when a note is off key or a chord is out of sequence. Over time, those skills form a sort of mental rule book about music, specific to the culture in which you’re born. Simultaneously, people’s reward centres trigger positive emotions when listening to music they like. As this happens in groups of people over time, Levitin says, song and dance physically help synchronise minds and form larger communities – effectively laying the foundations for civic life and society as we know it today. “Music may have evolved not for one reason, but for several distinct reasons: keeping you in your loved ones’ thoughts when you’re not around; for comfort, friendship, ritual and religion; to express joy and to convey knowledge,” Levitin said at a TEDxUSC conference in 2012. “For reasons we’re just beginning to understand as neuroscientists, music brings us outside ourselves and puts us in touch with thoughts of a higher power or higher order – inspiring us to achieve loftier goals than those in our own self interest.” Wagner said it’s vital to view music through this human-centric lens that has facilitated communication for centuries, especially now as anxieties swirl about the ways artificial intelligence and algorithms could potentially impact or even redefine the music industry in the future. Even as he leads research in new ways to integrate technology into composition, Wagner is not worried about undue influence from Silicon Valley, which has already produced text-to-music generators that spit out something that looks and sounds like music. Rather, it’s the intrinsic human element of communication, connection and cognition that makes music so impactful to the heart, mind and soul – regardless if it’s brought to life by bone-carved flutes, bedazzled wireless microphones or Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. “Crucially, (AI) is missing the human element – this communication between people who are trying to inhabit the same space, the same idea, the same world – that actually makes music meaningful,” Wagner said. “I spend every day working on technology to try to make music, but if there’s not a human at the center of it, I feel like it’s kind of a failure, because it’s so hard for something like that to connect with anyone.” – The Mercury News/ Tribune News Service

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Living

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

While medical scans fail to fully explain why a musical experience is enjoyable, those unknowables are stepping stones that guide intuitional understanding of why we enjoy music.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/living/2024/06/16/humanitys-soundtrack-how-music-has-influenced-society

Malaysia Mega Sale begins today – check out these malls in the Klang Valley

Tourism Malaysia has launched its latest Malaysia Mega Sale 2024 campaign, where shoppers get to enjoy attractive discounts of up to 85% at shopping malls across the nation, beginning today (June 15). This initiative aims to boost the nation’s economy, which was severely affected by the pandemic. Leisure shopping was found to be among the key contributors to tourist expenditure in 2019, with a total of RM86.14bil spent by tourists. These numbers saw a drastic decline (by nearly 6.8 times) between 2020 and 2021. According to Tourism Malaysia’s director general Manoharan Periasamy, the tourism sector gradually got back on track in 2022 and continued its growth in 2023, recording RM40.12bil and RM60bil in tourist expenditure, respectively. With the Malaysia Mega Sale initiative, themed “MY Priceless Experience”, Manoharan is confident that it will create a positive impact on tourism revenue this year. “The programme is expected to generate RM102.7bil in 2024 – a fourfold increase,” he said at the launch. Additionally, this approach also helps to promote Malaysia as a premiere shopping destination for tourists, supported by shopping mall operators, hotel associations, travel agencies and airlines nationwide. GMBB serves as a space for artists to showcase their artworks, some are up for sale. The shopping campaign will be held twice this year: Malaysia Mega Sale (June 15 to July 31) and Year-End Sale (Nov 15 to Dec 31). Both sale period will make a return in 2025 and 2026, on the same dates. During those years, there will also be a Malaysia Super Sale period, to be held from March 1 to March 31. This will hopefully help to attract more visitors to the country, as well as put the country on tourists’ travel wish list, by the time Visit Malaysia Year 2026 rolls by. Tourists, both local and international, will be able to enjoy exclusive offerings in most sectors, including gastronomy, accommodation and hospitality during these campaigns. Among the malls participating in the first campaign are TRX Exchange, GMBB and Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, all located in the capital city. TRX Exchange, the newly-opened shopping mall that spans over 4ha, houses 400 stores, including “new-to-market” brands. There is also a wide range of cuisines available at the mall to satisfy everyone’s palates. Located just 3km away from the TRX Exchange is a little-known gem called GMBB. Opened in August last year, this is a creative community complex offering various workshops and artisanal products. Here, visitors can also feast their eyes with the interesting displays of artworks by local artists. Lastly, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur needs no introduction to many Malaysians as this mall is always featured on social media during festive seasons, thanks to its grandiose decorations. There are more than 700 stores and stalls here with a diverse selection of items and experiences for visitors. GMBB is the place to go for those looking to join a workshop.

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

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The shopping campaign will be held twice this year: Malaysia Mega Sale (June 15 to July 31) and Year-End Sale (Nov 15 to Dec 31).

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/16/malaysia-mega-sale-begins-today---check-out-these-malls-in-the-klang-valley

Discovering Algeria's lesser-known treasures

Algeria wants to lure more visitors to the cultural and scenic treasures of Africa’s largest country, shedding its status as a tourism backwater and expanding a sector outshone by competitors in neighbouring Morocco and Tunisia. The giant north African country offers Roman and Islamic sites, beaches and mountains just an hour’s flight from Europe, and haunting Saharan landscapes, where visitors can sleep on dunes under the stars and ride camels with Tuareg nomads. But while tourist-friendly Morocco welcomed 14.5 million visitors in 2023, bigger, richer Algeria hosted just 3.3 million foreign tourists, according to the tourism ministry. About 1.2 million of those holidaymakers were Algerians from the diaspora of visiting families. The lack of travellers is testimony to Algeria’s neglect of a sector that remains one of world tourism’s undiscovered gems. Tourists can also visit the Beni Add caves in Tlemcen, Algeria.As Algeria’s oil and gas revenues grew in the 1960s and 1970s, successive governments lost interest in developing mass tourism. A descent into political strife in the 1990s pushed the country further off the beaten track. But while security is now much improved, Algeria needs to tackle an inflexible visa system and poor transport links, as well as grant privileges to local and foreign private investors to enable tourism to flourish, analysts say. Saliha Nacerbay, general director of the National Tourism Office, outlined plans to attract 12 million tourists by 2030 – an ambitious fourfold increase. “To achieve this, we, as the tourism and traditional industry sector, are seeking to encourage investments, provide facilities to investors, build tourist and hotel facilities,” she said, speaking at the recent International Tourism & Travel Fair that was hosted in Algiers. Algeria has plans to build hotels, and restructure and modernise existing ones. The tourism ministry said that about 2,000 tourism projects have been approved so far, 800 of which are currently under construction. The historic Mansourah Mosque in Tlemcen Province.The country is also restoring its historical sites, with 249 locations earmarked for tourism expansion. Approximately 70 sites have been prepared, and restoration plans are underway for 50 additional sites, officials said. French tourist Patrick Lebeau emphasised the need to improve infrastructure to fully realise Algeria’s tourism prospects. “Obviously, there is a lot of tourism potential, but much work still needs to be done to attract us,” Lebeau said. Tourism and travel provided 543,500 jobs in Algeria in 2021, according to the Statista website. In contrast, tourism professionals in Morocco estimate the sector provides 700,000 direct jobs in the kingdom, and many more jobs indirectly. – Reuters

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Africa

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

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Africa’s biggest country wants to lure tourists to its neglected cultural and scenic glories.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/travel/2024/06/16/discovering-algeria039s-lesser-known-treasures

Global K-pop girl group Katseye confirms US debut on June 28; Philippine lass Sophia among six member group

MANILA (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN): Katseye, the global K-pop girl group launched through a collaboration between HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, is poised to debut in the United States on June 28. The group’s debut will be the first attempt for both labels to penetrate the mainstream pop market in the US with a global girl group. Eyes are on whether the six-member multinational K-pop act will show potential for the globalization of Hybe’s training and development system. According to HYBE and Geffen Records, Katseye’s debut single will be released on June 28 at midnight Eastern Time in the US, or 1 p.m. Korean time. The group’s second single and EP are set to be unveiled in July and August, respectively. “They will showcase everything they have prepared for their fans and embark on a new journey together,” Hybe and Geffen Records said in an announcement. Katseye was formed through the competition reality show “The Debut: Dream Academy,” which streamed via YouTube last year. Ultimately six bandmates, who beat out the competition of some 6,000 other contestants, come from different backgrounds — Daniela, Lara and Megan are from the US, Manon is from Switzerland, Sophia is from the Philippines, and Yoonchae is the only South Korean member. During the 90-day audition process, they demonstrated their preparedness as global pop stars, undergoing evaluations across various categories including dance, vocals, teamwork, concept interpretation and artistic expression. On Friday, the group unveiled a team logo in its trailer on the YouTube channel HYBE Labels. Even before the debut, Katseye garnered attention among fans who followed the journey. On HYBE’s global superfan platform Weverse, Katseye attracted fans from 220 regions with nearly 300,000 registered fans. “After a long 12 weeks of journey, we are finally about to see the global girl group debut. I hope Katseye becomes the voice of our new generation and inspires young people all over the world, sending out a message that dreams will come true,” said Hybe Chairman Bang Si-hyuk in a video related to the audition show in November last year. In February, Grammy.com included Katseye in its “11 Rookie K-Pop Acts to Know in 2024” list, further solidifying the group’s presence as an emerging force in the K-pop scene. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

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Katseye, the global K-pop girl group launched through a collaboration between HYBE and American record label Geffen Records, is poised to debut in the United States on June 28.

https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2024/06/16/global-k-pop-girl-group-katseye-confirms-us-debut-on-june-28-philippine-lass-sophia-among-six-member-group

Cartoonist explores emotional journey of parenting a child with special needs

As the father of two young daughters, comic book artist Mohammad Yazid Kamal Baharin, better known as Zid, reveals that he and his small family embrace a day-by-day approach to life. “I’ve long realised I was never in control of my path. I can plan, but I learned the hard way through the curve balls that I’ve been thrown at time and time again that the best way to move forward is to let go and ride the waves,” he says in a recent interview in Kuala Lumpur. One of those “curve balls” was discovering that his youngest, Dalya, has Smith-Magenis Syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by chromosome deletion at the embryonic stage, often leading to difficulty sleeping and developmental delays, such as speech and language issues. Dalya was initially thought to have Prader-Willi Syndrome, a more commonly known rare condition. But in 2021, after going through rapid early intervention therapies that didn’t improve the outcome, it was recommended that Dalya have her blood tested to get a more solid diagnosis. “Lo and behold, it was a completely different condition – Smith-Magenis Syndrome is rarer, with a different set of genetic deletion. But knowing is half the long and arduous battle ahead of us,” says Zid. Together with his wife Maisara Ainulsofia Abdul Rashid, known as Sara, they have created a nurturing and affectionate home – in Subang Jaya – for their two daughters: Zayra, their spirited and determined seven-year old, and Dalya, now five, who needs additional care due to her special needs. The cover of Zid’s graphic novel 'Diary Of A Work-From-Home Dad (Volume 1)', set for a reprint after its initial run sold out. Photo: Mohamad Yazid Kamal Baharin “Despite growing up in isolation during the pandemic, Zayra is thriving in school. She loves making friends, and is performing in completing her daily tasks in her class. She also shines when encouraged with positive encouragement, so we commit to propping up her self-esteem that way,” shares Zid. Working as a team, Zid and Sara juggle caring for Zayra and Dalya alongside their personal endeavours – Zid, 41, a self-employed comic artist, diligently meets deadlines for his diverse projects, while Sara explores her hobbies in crafting, from sewing to claymaking. “Sara remains the backbone homemaker to allow my daily grind to operate smoothly,” he adds. A visual diary Since 2019, Zid has been sharing online comics that chronicle the highs and lows of fatherhood while navigating a career in the unpredictable comics industry. His series, aptly titled Diary Of A Work-From-Home Dad, captures this balancing act with humour and heart. The comic – a mix of lighthearted, chuckle-inducing situations to heart achingly vulnerable moments – has become a hit among his followers on social media, which still comes as a surprise to Zid. “It started off as a way to immortalise one-off moments that I found funny or significant, or situations that I wanted to cherish in visual form, but after some time, it’s become something akin to a family photo album – one that my children can look through fondly, maybe even after I’m no longer around, complete with my personal narration to guide them through the time machine,” says Zid. In this family photo, comic book artist Zid (left) is accompanied by his daughters Zayra (middle), Dalya (right), and his wife Sara, standing behind them. Photo: Mohamad Yazid Kamal Baharin For him, the comics are also his way to help shed light into the lives of those with developmental disorders, as well as that of their families and caretakers. “At the back of my mind, there’s this need to spread awareness of what we go through as a family with one of us who has a rare condition, so that the public would be less judgemental towards others who may not be so keen to share their battles out in the open. “Perhaps it’s in the hopes of encouraging a culture of understanding and support that will make it easier for us and those like us to manoeuvre through our daily lives, especially in public spaces,” he says. The comic recently transitioned from online to physical copies as Zid premiered the self-published Diary Of A Work-From-Home Dad (Volume 1) at last weekend’s Comic Art Festival Kuala Lumpur. “The idea to compile the comics into a physical comic has been a frequent suggestion by readers of the series, which I initially waved off, because self-publication is an expensive commitment, and there is no guarantee that you can make a return on your investment,” says Zid. ‘I honestly didn’t expect people to be interested in reading and owning a storybook about someone’s life without superheroes or fantastical actions,’ says Zid. Photo: Mohamad Yazid Kamal Baharin But he eventually relented when Zayra stumbled upon photos of Zid from his younger days, selling DIY comics at independent comic book and fan conventions. “Her interest was piqued – I think it was more to do with the cosplayers, really. But Sara suggested that I take this opportunity to reach new audiences with a physical version of the series while at the same time bringing Zayra to experience a convention for the first time,” he adds. Beyond superheroes Zid printed a modest 120 copies of the Diary Of A Work-From-Home Dad comic for the event, which quickly sold out, much to his shock. “I honestly didn’t expect people to be interested in reading and owning a storybook about someone’s life without superheroes or fantastical actions,” he admits, noting that he doesn’t have a concrete plan for the series. “What I know for certain is that there are many more stories waiting in the backlog, eager to be drawn and compiled until I can no longer tell them.” Zid is currently gearing up for a second print run of the comic due to high demand, including numerous walk-in orders and requests from overseas after selling out. To secure a copy, interested readers can reach out to Zid through his social media accounts or official website. A page from the 'Diary Of A Work-From-Home Dad (Volume 1)' graphic novel. Photo: Mohamad Yazid Kamal Baharin With a background in collaborating with major international comic book publishers, Zid’s illustrations grace notable works such as Dune: The Official Movie Graphic Novel, Lost In Space, and the Monsterverse. He considers one of his proudest professional achievements to be his work on Kingdom Kong, where he was entrusted with designing Camazotz, a winged, subterranean bat-centric kaiju integrated into the Monsterverse lore. However, for him, no accolade or recognition could overshadow his family. “I may not have the same level of fame, productivity, or technical prowess as my peers, but having my family who holds me in such high regard is more than sufficient motivation for me to continue striving to make them proud,” he concludes.

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

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In his poignant new graphic novel, comic book artist Zid vividly depicts the challenges and joys of raising a young daughter with a rare genetic condition

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/culture/2024/06/16/cartoonist-explores-emotional-journey-of-parenting-a-child-with-special-needs

Vanity Fare: Give your skin the glow it deserves with the right skincare

A proper skincare routine is the key to getting healthy, glowing and younger-looking skin. From toners to creams and serums, choose the right ones to help nourish and protect your complexion. Gentle exfoliation The Ordinary’s Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner, is an all-in-one lightweight prep step to give your skin a radiant glow and hydration all around the clock. Through this gentle exfoliation, it helps to reduce textural irregularities and smooth skin texture, and helps to reduce the look of dark spots, resulting in brighter, more radiant skin. Its key ingredient is a 30% concentration of saccharomyces ferment, a yeast ferment technology with 3% fermented N-acetylglucosamine (NAG). NAG exfoliates the skin surface to help smooth uneven texture and boost radiance. It also includes squalane, known to increase hydration, which makes it especially suitable for dry skin types. Read more: Vanity fare: Give your skin a second life with these rejuvenating skincare Lifting and defining Shiseido’s Vital Perfection LiftDefine Radiance Night Concentrate is formulated with the brand’s ReNeura Technology++, which enhances the skin’s receptivity to the product’s powerful ingredients. This advanced overnight treatment is designed to address key signs of ageing, fatigue and dullness while rejuvenating and restoring the skin’s natural vitality while you sleep. It works in harmony with the skin’s natural night time repair process to deliver visible results and offering unparalleled lifting and radiance benefits. An intensive-care formula that targets signs of ageing in the lower half of the face, it is meant to brighten dullness and diminish the appearance of skin concerns while also firming up skin. Apply this product as the last step in your skincare ritual, before sleep. For healthier-looking skin Nuvit’s Retinol+ AgeDefy Day Cream is a mild and gentle solution for those who are trying out retinol-infused products for the first time. The cream was created to effectively improve fine lines, make skin firmer and plumper, and look healthier overall. It contains 0.3% Pro-Retinol, a high concentration of centella asiatica extract as well as vitamin C. With sun protection (SPF35****) it also keeps harmful rays at bay. All-in-one serum Re:Erth, a Japanese skincare brand which specialises in serums developed the Omni Serum, a multitasking product, meant to replace other steps in your beauty routine. The product features hand-harvested and sustainably sourced Tasmanian seaweed extract which helps combat skin damage and maintain a rejuvenated complexion by balancing the skin’s microbiome. It also contains Japanese spring turmeric and Japanese white turmeric. The former effectively suppresses tyrosinase activity, a melanin precursor, to lighten pigmentation and restore clarity to the skin. Japanese white turmeric provides natural hyaluronic acid protection and stimulates cell production in the skin, which gives the product its skin firming properties. Read more: 'Boyfriend blush' is the makeup trend to try out if you want a healthy glow That brightening effect Malaysian-owned skincare brand Skinmade introduces the Infinitebright 15% Vitamin C + Bio Stemcell Super Brightening serum, created based on melanogenesis science. The serum targets multiple pigment pathways and works to boost skin radiance, while also improving uneven skin tone and reducing the appearance of dark spots and post-acne marks. Formulated for those with skin concerns such as hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone and lackluster skin appearance, it can be applied in the morning and at night.

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2024-06-16 00:00:00

beauty,Vanity Fare,skincare

Serums, toners, creams and concentrates – check out the newest skincare products on the market that can help give your complexion a healthy glow.

https://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/style/2024/06/16/vanity-fare-give-your-skin-the-glow-it-deserves-with-the-right-skincare