As an academic, I have cheered for and welcomed the open access (OA) mandates that, slowly but steadily, have been accepted in one way or another throughout academia. It is now often accepted that public funds means public

Simon Beech and another man were jailed in 2011 for trying to blow up a mosque in Stoke-on-Trent.

George Taft, 65, and Ian Catterson, 73, drowned in February last year when MV Biter capsized while assisting a cruise ship.

Wales scrum-half Tomos Williams is ruled out of the Autumn Nations Series match against Australia on Sunday.

A penalty awarded to West Ham during Erik ten Hag's final match in charge of Man Utd was a 'misread', according to refereeing boss Howard Webb.

Jonathan Edge was caught selling reprogrammed Firestick devices after advertising on Facebook.

A man threatened to push a nine-year-old girl in the Union Canal as she cycled home from football training.

The tech billionaire joins the incoming administration to "dismantle government bureaucracy" - but what's in it for both of them?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has said firms will have to absorb higher taxes through their profits.

One of Britain's most distinguished actors, West was married to Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales.

Hegseth, who is also a former soldier without political experience, will lead the world's most powerful military.

'Affordable' & 'precision rifle' are two terms rarely found together, which is why the Bear Creek Arsenal BC-10 Side-Charging AR-10 Upper is so interesting.

A review of the Ruger LC Charger in 5.7x28. An accurate, reliable little PDW, that comes at a great discount compared to the P90.

LaToya claimed self-defense, but Manassas, Virginia Prosecutor D. Burke Walker had other ideas and charged the woman with second-degree murder.

For now, there are several good choices for gun owners that DeWine can make, a few problematic ones, and one that’s completely unacceptable, his previous pick Dolan.

The Swampfox Warhorse is an FFP LPVO in the 1-6X range with a 34mm tube. Confused as to what all that means? Well let's dig in.

As if gun rights activists have not had enough winning for one week, with the landslide Trump election win.  Now, a major victory for gun rights advocates has unfolded in Illinois...

EOTech EFLX Mini Reflex Sight at $249.99 out the door after a coupon code at check out. You save $249.00+ off....

So, any thought of disobeying them must be destroyed – along with anyone daring to spread the idea that the oath is to the Constitution, not to a regime and its unlawful orders.

The NEXTORCH PIONEER PROFESSIONAL MULTI TOOL is a stout multi-tool that can hold up to tough tasks and offers a few features others don't.

Archon Firearms and the Type B are far from the typical company or product and it shows. Video tabletop and shooting impressions review.

RTAC Large Lasercut MOLLE Backpack with a Pistol Retention System is not just $20.99 after a sale and coupon code at check out. That is 75%+ off...

Discover the Personal Defense Weapon (PDW) - the perfect balance of firepower and portability for those in need of a defensive weapon.

The gun prohibition lobby is promising to double-down its efforts to push through more restrictive gun laws in the wake of Donald Trump's momentous election victory.

If you have read any of the NRA’s magazines, watch American Rifleman, or have seen some shows on The Outdoor Channel or The History Channel, you have seen Mark Keefe for years.

If you thought the leftist backlash during Trump’s 1st term was bad, these coddled, indoctrinated adult children will take up a renewed Resistance” against Freedom & American values.

In our civilization, any application of lethal force upon another human being is a fantastically high-stakes affair! Even if it saves your life!

When you think of punk rock, your mind might jump to rebellious music, hardcore shows, & underground clubs—not the firearms industry. However, for KAK Industry...

Federal District Judge Stephen P. McGlynn has ordered a permanent injunction against enforcement of the Illinois "assault weapon" and magazine ban on November 8, 2024. The order will probably be appealed to the Seventh Circuit.

Can we at least have some time for public input on something that can profoundly affect us all before sneaking this through?

When the chips are down, Cornyn has shown he’s more interested in placating anti-gun voices than defending the rights of law-abiding Americans.

Time to upgrade your GLOCK pistol with the SCT Manufacturing Frame For Gen3 G19, G23, & G32 Polymer pistols ...now just $69.99 with a coupon code!

IN the spirit of sharing and spreading happiness this Raya, SK magic, South Korea’s leading home appliances brand recently launched the JIKSOO Ria, its latest tankless water purifier that is affordable to all.

True to its commitment to inspire all Malaysians to live a quality and healthy lifestyle, the JIKSOO Ria is affordably priced to encourage Malaysians to start caring about their water intake and stop drinking from stagnant water sources, a known bacteria and algae breeding pool, commonly found in tanked purifiers.

Priced at RM3,800, this latest addition to SK magic’s range of advanced JIKSOO technology water purifiers comes with innovative nanotechnology filtration system and water tab UV sterilisation system that filters viruses, bacteria, microplastics and heavy metals, while allowing essential minerals to pass through.

As the pioneer in tankless technology, SK magic advocates that clean and fresh drinking water is not a luxury and should be accessible to all Malaysians, because everyone deserves the best.

GETTING tired of ordering the same food for delivery, week after week? Tiger Beer, the champion of Asian street food, has the answer. Spice up your mealtimes by pre-ordering the Tiger Street Food Box – featuring exclusive, bold collaborations between classic street food favourites and some of KL’s hottest modern restaurants – and get it delivered right to your door!

Choose from a range of innovative new collaborations based on authentic street food flavours, with mash-up dishes from Devi’s Corner, Yut Kee, myBurgerLab, Ticklish Ribs & ‘Wiches, Megah Taiwan Sausage, Mama Manta, LI, Fifty Tales and Choon Prawn Mee House. Fancy Ticklish Ribs & ‘Wiches legendary BBQ chicken wings with Devi’s Corner’s famous mango chutney? You got it – the Tiger Street Food Box has you covered! And of course – what would street food be without an ice-cold Tiger to pair it with? Each box comes with Tiger Beer or Tiger Crystal, the perfect partner to Asian street food.

From the myBurgerLab x Mama Manta ‘Flamin’ Hot Sambal Burger’ – a chicken patty in a bun slathered with a creamy lime sauce, paired with Mama Manta’s Grill Fish Sambal, perfected over 18 years; to Fifty Tales x Choon Prawn Mee House ‘Smoked Oil with Prawn Mee Broth Braised Pork’ – pork shoulder braised in prawn mee broth to soak up the flavour and served on noodles paired with a housemade smoked oil: one thing’s for certain – this isn’t your normal, boring food delivery.

Available for pre-order from today at www.tigerstreetfood.my, the Tiger Street Food Box will be delivered on the day of your choosing according to your location – so you can plan your perfect day or night in to go along with it. Priced at RM28 for a one-person box, or RM48 for a two-person box, quantities are limited for each delivery day – so pre-order early to avoid disappointment. You won’t be able to find these exclusive collaboration dishes anywhere else, so be sure to try them before they’re gone for good!

The Tiger Street Food Box will be available over the next three weekends in Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru respectively, before returning to the Klang Valley again for the final week of the campaign. Each two-person box comes with two choices of mains, one choice of large side dish, and two 320ml cans of either Tiger Beer or Tiger Crystal. Each one-person box comes with one choice of main, one choice of side dish, and one 320ml can of either Tiger Beer or Tiger Crystal. Every order also comes complete with a limited edition Tiger Street Food chopstick set.

THE long wait is nearly over for football fans, as UEFA Euro 2020 finally hits our screens this month! In conjunction, Heineken, the proud official beer partner of UEFA Euro 2020, is encouraging Malaysian fans to join in the fun with its new campaign ‘Enjoy the Rivalry’ and stand to win amazing prizes.

After more than a year of waiting, UEFA Euro 2020, a global event set to have 5 billion viewers, will finally take place from June 12 to July 12, 2021. Twenty-four of Europe’s best teams will compete for the title, reigniting old football rivalries and instigating new ones.

Heineken believes the fun of rivalry doesn’t stop on the field, though – much of what makes football great is the friendly rivalry between fans. After all, unity isn’t what makes football exciting: rivalry does!

Accompanying the campaign is a range of Limited Edition Heineken UEFA Euro 2020 bottles and cans, featuring the flags of participating teams.

Available in special combo packs at participating supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores and on Drinkies – Heineken Malaysia Berhad’s home delivery service – the Limited Edition designs are the perfect way to show your support and let the rivalry commence!

Bring the rivalry fun to the next level from June 10 to July 4 with the Heineken Rivalry Stadium (www.heinekenrivalrystadium.com.my), and stand to win a once-in-a-lifetime final viewing experience in the comfort and safety of your own home.

Pick a celebrity opponent, challenge them, and try to outsmart their predictions on a series of matches to be in the running to win an exclusive Heineken Home Stadium, with everything you need to watch the UEFA Euro 2020 final in style!

With opponents like football legend Datuk Soh Chin Aun, futsal player Steffi Sidhu, TV football pundits Michelle Lee and Mark O’Dea, and content creator duo MusangKing to challenge, the rivalry will be fierce!

“UEFA EURO 2020 is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with Heineken and your best rivals by your side. At Heineken, we believe that rivalry is at the core of football – there’s fun in being rivals because it makes the games that much more exciting for us as fans. As the official beer partner of Europe’s most prestigious international football tournament, Heineken and Heineken 0.0 are the perfect choices when it’s time to reach for a beer during a match,” said Pablo Chabot, Marketing Director of Heineken Malaysia Berhad.

SINCE it was founded in 1994, aviation has always been a passion for Bell & Ross. Over the years, the watch brand has become a leading benchmark in the instrument watch field.

In 2011, the brand launched the eye-catching Red Radar. This year marks the return of this watchmaking UFO. The style of the new BR 03-92 Red Radar Ceramic version is as modern as ever, and brings its own innovative reinterpretation to the watch display. Its display breaks the traditional watchmaking codes by revisiting the graphics of an aircraft control radar.

The time can be read via a system of rotating discs, combined with an analogue hand. The dial is topped with a red sapphire crystal. The newcomer adopts the BR 03 case, which is 42 mm in diameter.

In constant pursuit of innovation and performance, on this occasion Bell & Ross has chosen to use ceramic. This high-tech material is scratch-resistant, yet soft to the touch.

WITH working from home being the new norm, the hours tend to blur and we often find ourselves looking for a pick-me-up to get through the day.

Now, working responsibly while enjoying a cold one is made possible with Heineken 0.0 – a beer minus the guilt and the alcohol.

In line with the brand’s advocacy of responsible consumption, Heineken is giving away 10,000 Heineken 0.0 four-can packs to refresh your next long day of work.

To kick-start a “work smart, drink smart” routine, simply sign up at www.heineken00drinksmart.com.

As you drag the Heineken 0.0 can into the calendar within the site, a redemption form will pop up and a free four-can Heineken pack 0.0 will be making its way to your doorstep.

“Our days are often filled with back-to-back meetings and long checklists to complete,” said Heineken Malaysia Bhd marketing director Pablo Chabot.

“There are times we cannot even pause to take a break.

“We hear you, hence we are giving away 10,000 free four-can packs of Heineken 0.0 for you to enjoy while you work.

“Gone are the days where you cannot have a beer while working, when you can now work smart and drink smart with Heineken 0.0,” he added.

The free four-can packs are available on a first come, first served basis and subject to eligibility.

Only one redemption per person is allowed, while stocks last.

Those who miss out on this giveaway can purchase the packs via the Drinkies app (available on both iOS and Android) or www.drinkies.my.

For more information, visit www.heineken00drinksmart.com.

(Heineken 0.0 and all promotions and giveaways are for non-Muslims aged 21 and above only.)

IN the recent announcement of the Budget 2025 , the Malaysian government unveiled a substantial enhancement to the i-Saraan programme.

This improvement entails increasing incentives from 15% to 20%, with a maximum annual contribution of RM500.

The primary objective of this initiative is to promote retirement savings among informal workers and individuals with variable incomes, particularly those engaged in the gig economy.

This strategic move is particularly significant in light of Malaysia’s rapidly ageing society and the financial challenges confronting self-employed and gig economy workers.

The gig economy in Malaysia has witnessed significant expansion over the past decade, attracting a substantial portion of the workforce, including young adults and individuals seeking alternative employment arrangements.

While offering flexibility and independence, this sector presents several challenges, particularly regarding financial security and retirement planning.

Gig workers often lack the benefits and protections associated with traditional employment, such as employer-sponsored retirement plans, health insurance and job security, leading to financial instability and hindered ability to save consistently for the future. Recent data underscores the limited participation of gig workers in Malaysia’s Social Security Organisation (Socso), highlighting the neeed for tailored solutions to support this growing segment of the workforce.

As Malaysia’s population ages, the importance of accumulating sufficient retirement savings cannot be overstated. The anticipated rise in healthcare and long-term care costs underscores the essential need for individuals to possess adequate funds to support themselves during their later years.

Many gig workers may struggle to afford necessities and healthcare in old age without proper savings. The i-Saraan programme, administered by the Employees Provident Fund, aims to address this issue by providing a platform for informal workers to save for retirement. The programme offers a government incentive to match a percentage of the contributions made by participants, thereby encouraging more people to save.

The recent increase in incentives for the i-Saraan programme represents a strategic effort to stimulate participation and savings among gig workers. By raising the matching contribution from 15% to 20%, the government aims to enhance the attractiveness and benefits of the programme.

This enhancement implies that for every RM100 contributed by a participant, the government will add RM20, up to a maximum of RM500 annually.

This increase in incentives is expected to yield several positive impacts: higher incentives are likely to attract more gig workers to join the programme, increased participation will assist more individuals in building a financial cushion for their retirement, and more significant savings will encourage participants to contribute more regularly and consistently.

By accumulating more savings, gig workers can attain heightened financial security in their retirement years, reducing their reliance on government assistance and family support.

Malaysia’s ageing population significantly challenges the country’s social and economic systems. With the anticipated increase in the proportion of elderly citizens, there will be heightened demand for healthcare services, long-term care and social support.

Ensuring that all workforce segments, including gig workers, are financially prepared for retirement is imperative.

The i-Saraan programme, with its enhanced incentives, plays a pivotal role in this context. By encouraging gig workers to save for retirement, it will help alleviate some of the pressures associated with an ageing society. This will promote a culture of financial responsibility and long-term planning among informal workers.

While enhancing the i-Saraan programme represents a positive step, additional measures can be taken to support gig workers further.

Enhancing awareness about the i-Saraan programme and its benefits is crucial, as many gig workers may not know how to participate. Targeted campaigns can help bridge this knowledge gap.

Simplifying the process of enrolling in the i-Saraan programme and making contributions will encourage more gig workers to participate.

In addition to the matching contributions, other incentives such as tax breaks or additional government grants can further motivate gig workers to save.

Developing a broader social protection framework encompassing health insurance, unemployment benefits and other safety nets for gig workers will provide a more holistic approach to their financial security.

The increase in incentives represents a commendable initiative addressing the unique challenges that gig workers face in Malaysia.

By enhancing the i-Saraan programme, the government is taking a proactive stance in supporting the financial well-being of gig workers and addressing the broader societal implications of an ageing population.

The writer is a research fellow at the Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies, Universiti Malaya. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

THE recent debate over Chinese flags being waved at the Guan Gong Cultural Festival in Teluk Intan, Perak, has reignited the age-old question of how symbols can be easily twisted into points of division.

Flags, gestures and other symbols carry deep meaning, but they are also open to interpretation. While this flag-waving may have seemed harmless for some, for others it quickly became a “threat” to Malaysian identity.

The real question is: How should we respond rationally as a community?

Symbols are powerful tools. They help us express complex emotions, shared histories and cultural pride in one glance.

A flag represents much more than just colours or designs; it is about pride, history and unity. Interestingly, symbols do not mean the same thing to everyone. A gesture with deep meaning for one group may seem completely neutral to another.

At the festival, participants from China were simply celebrating their cultural pride by waving their own flags. There was no explicit intent to disrespect Malaysia. However, for some, this act took on a different meaning as if it was a direct challenge to Malaysian values. This shows how easily symbols can be misunderstood and used to support narratives that may not match their true intent.

Symbols are meant to bring us together, but they can just as easily be used to pull us apart. This “lightning rod” effect – a simple act like waving a flag – can quickly become a point of conflict. People start to view it not as a celebration but as a challenge or a threat, especially when it aligns with pre-existing fears or biases.

Responding rationally

In a world where symbols can be so easily twisted, how do we keep a level head? Obviously ignoring them is not the solution, but neither is reacting without thinking.

Instead, we should aim for a balanced, proactive response. First, knowledge is our best defence against manipulation. When we know the origins and intentions behind symbols, we can better interpret them. In this case, knowing that the Guan Gong festival is about cultural pride, not politics, may have eased some of the outrage.

Equally important is pausing to consider intent before jumping to conclusions. Asking ourselves why certain people are pushing a negative view is a vital step – are they genuinely worried or is someone stirring the pot for personal gain? Taking a moment to think about these motivations helps us respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally.

There is the importance of open conversation. Talking openly, whether online or in person, helps clear misunderstandings and in turn keeps divisive ideas from taking root. Discussing rather than accusing allows people to see different sides of an issue, helping to break down conflict.

Even when we do not agree with a particular symbol or action, choosing respect over anger shows strength.

By setting a tone of respect, we establish that rash reactions will not weaken our unity but instead solidify it.

Finally, in a time when headlines are crafted to stir us up, we need to promote media savviness. Supporting media literacy helps us all recognise exaggeration and bias, making it harder for negative views to spread. This allows us to stay focused on what truly matters, safeguarding our unity against the noise of sensationalism. “Tak pasti, jangan kongsi.”

Strengthening unity

Malaysia’s richness lies in its diversity, and tackling issues rationally is not just crucial but fundamental in keeping that strength alive.

Symbols will always be part of our identity but they should not be used to drive us apart. In this case, rushing to react may only deepen divides, moving us further from the values
of tolerance and unity that our country was built on.

As a society, we need to keep our guard
up against attempts to use symbols for division, and focus instead on promoting understanding and connection.

By adopting a balanced, calm and thoughtful approach, we can make it clear that Malaysia’s strength is not in uniformity but in the unity that comes from respect, open dialogue and shared empathy. Now is the time to remember that our strength as a nation lies in standing together, with each
of us working to build a Malaysia where diversity is celebrated, not feared.

In The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho writes: “When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better too.” Much like Santiago’s journey to discover his own truth, we also have a choice in how we respond to events around us.

In times of tension, it is easy to let initial reactions drive our actions. However, the real strength lies in taking a step back, viewing each situation as it is, and choosing not to let outside forces manipulate us.

What if in moments of tension we choose patience over impulsiveness, looking beyond the surface to seek a deeper meaning? Perhaps, only then we can strengthen our
so-called unity.

Ir Dr Nahrizul Adib Kadri is an associate professor of biomedical engineering and the former director of Corporate Communications Centre, Universiti Malaya. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

CLIMATE change is no longer a distant or abstract phenomenon relegated to the icy extremities of the Arctic, nor a cause celebre championed by a select few.

Its impacts are now felt in the streets of Kuala Lumpur and in the homes of everyday Malaysians. With a recent Unicef analysis highlighting a fourfold increase in heatwaves and the devastating floods of 2021 and 2022 still fresh in memory, it is clear that Malaysia is at a critical juncture.

The public is eager to confront this existential crisis, but a significant question remains: Can we afford it?

This question goes beyond financial concerns and touches on the structural barriers that hinder our collective action. The obstacles to sustainable living – whether financial, infrastructural or attitudinal – risk undermining the will of the rakyat to take meaningful steps forward.

A recent study focusing on climate literacy in Malaysia paints a revealing portrait of this struggle. The survey, whose respondents majorly consisted of youths aged 15 to 24, found that 68% reported strong engagement in energy conservation practices while 51% demonstrated recycling habits, reflecting a promising commitment to environmentally friendly values.

However, this willingness often collides with systemic barriers, making it difficult for these efforts to translate into large-scale change.

At the heart of the issue is the ongoing tug-of-war between convenience and climate action. The dichotomy is evident in the behaviours of the younger generation; around 51% of respondents aged 15 to 24 regularly use
public transport. This is largely due to its cost-effectiveness and accessibility.

However, gaps in coverage and inefficiencies limit its potential as a comprehensive solution. Similarly, many young people are reducing their energy consumption at home – an encouraging sign of eco-consciousness. However, are these actions driven by genuine environmental concern or are they primarily a response to rising electricity costs?

When it comes to more significant lifestyle changes, such as reducing plastic consumption or choosing eco-friendly products, cost and convenience still play decisive roles.

Sustainable options often come with higher price tags or are harder to find, which can discourage even the most committed individuals. This underscores the gap between good intentions and real action.

The solution is not simply about individual willpower. It is about creating a system where sustainable living becomes the easier, more affordable choice for all Malaysians.

Sustainability, unfortunately, often comes with a price tag that is unaffordable to many. The idea of “going green” is frequently associated with buying organic, reducing plastic use or adopting renewable energy – all commendable but often out of reach for the average person.

This financial burden extends beyond individual consumption. Many Malaysians are already under pressure to meet basic living standards, making it difficult to prioritise sustainable choices without substantial support.

Here, the role of the government becomes crucial. As living costs rise, achieving widespread adoption of green practices requires thoughtful financial support.

By introducing subsidies, tax incentives and rebates for eco-friendly products and renewable energy, the government can make sustainability more accessible to a wider population. These policy tools can empower Malaysians to make greener choices without feeling the pinch in their wallets.

Malaysia has already demonstrated its commitment to addressing climate change through international agreements and targets. The country has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030, a significant step towards mitigating its environmental impact.

Additionally, as a member of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, Malaysia is part of a global effort to tackle climate change. These commitments lay the foundation for more ambitious domestic policies and actions.

The government’s efforts should not stop at encouraging individual responsibility; they must also create conditions where sustainable living is the default. This requires a multifaceted approach, from stricter regulations on high-polluting industries to investing in green infrastructure. These steps would ensure that sustainable choices are not just available but also convenient and affordable for all.

While individual actions are vital in tackling climate change, they must be complemented by broader systemic shifts. The power of individual behaviours, when multiplied, can create a ripple effect, but lasting impact requires governments, industries and communities working in harmony.

It is important to recognise that sustainability cannot simply be a consumer choice, it must become a societal norm.

The current model, which places the burden on individuals while allowing industries to continue with “business as usual” is not just unsustainable, it is profoundly unjust.

The time has come for a shift in perspective, where systemic change is seen not as a luxury but as a necessity. Malaysia needs bold and decisive action, not just from individuals but also from the government and industries.

Policies that make green living the default choice – such as subsidies for eco-friendly products, stricter regulations on corporate polluters and robust investments in infrastructure – are key steps towards building a more sustainable future.

Moreover, a cultural shift is necessary in how we view sustainability. The responsibility of addressing climate change should not disproportionately fall on individuals, particularly those already struggling financially. Corporations and industries, as the wealthiest and most influential players, have a greater obligation to lead the charge toward sustainability.

As Malaysia confronts the realities of climate change, it is imperative that we shift the narrative away from individual action as the sole remedy for environmental degradation.

The rakyat are ready to do their part but systemic support is essential for real progress. It is time for the government and industries to take responsibility, ensuring that sustainable living is accessible and affordable.

Half-measures are no longer enough. What Malaysia needs now is bold and decisive actions that connect individual behaviours, corporate responsibility and government policies into a cohesive, collective effort. It is time for the system to catch up.

The writers are from the Department of
Science and Technology Studies,
Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya.
Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

Q: As soon as our daughter hit the “terrible twos”, she became difficult to deal with. I have heard this is fairly common. We know it is “just a stage” and we will get through it. However, for now, it is exhausting and discouraging. What advice can you give for keeping the right perspective during this challenging time?

Focus on the Family Malaysia: We will share an example that is in a book, The Best Advice I Ever Got On Parenting. The author heard it from singer Phil Joel and his wife, Heather. When their first son arrived, he slept through the night, loved to be held and routinely wore a big smile. Then he became a toddler, and his pleasant disposition vanished.

That is when the Joels realised parenting is a lot like gardening. The analogy illustrates that we plant seeds of love in our children so their lives will grow and flourish. But as anyone who tends the soil can tell you, positive results do not happen overnight.

Success requires consistent attention and labour, rain or shine. And it is not just the seeds you plant that sprout – there are weeds to be dealt with as well.

As they discovered, weeds can take many forms in our children’s lives, from negative cultural influences to selfishness that screams “it’s all about me!” These things often choke out the positive seeds of love and encouragement we are trying to spur towards growth.

That is why we need to dig beneath the surface of an issue to see lasting change. If we ignore the weeds, they will only grow deeper and become harder to uproot.

Raising children is not always easy, but with your loving care and your willingness to confront the negative influences that threaten their well-being, your child can develop into an adult of maturity and character.

Q: My wife and I have enjoyed being part of a close-knit circle of friends for a few years, but lately, we feel like something is missing – as if life has become a bit stagnant. We would like to branch out somehow and build new friendships, but we are not sure where to start. What would you suggest?

Focus on the Family Malaysia: We have heard that if couples are married long enough, they start to look like one another. We are not sure if that is true but couples do often look like the other couples they hang out with. It may feel more comfortable to be friends with someone who is just like you, but you are depriving your marriage of a great chance to grow.

Relating to someone in the same place in life as you or who has common interests is easy. You can empathise with each other about career challenges, share the highs and lows of parenting or compare favourite music, movies and hobbies.

But we would suggest another perspective. There is tremendous value in spending time with one or more couples who are different from you.

An older couple can share their years of wisdom with a younger couple and help them develop some long-term stability in their marriage. Younger couples have a lot to offer too. They can bring a sense of energy to the friendship or help an older couple feel younger and more revived in their relationship.

To add a deeper layer of richness to your marriage, try to build a friendship with another couple who does not see life the same way as you. Their different perspective can challenge you to grow. It just may create the spark you need to strengthen your marriage for years to come. And hopefully, you will do the same for them.

This article is contributed by Focus on the Family Malaysia, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and strengthening the family unit.
It provides a myriad of programmes and resources, including professional counselling services, to the community.
For more information, visit family.org.my. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

PERHAPS one of the highlights of my career was when I was made a chief in a small village in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo) in 1986.

After that, a series of events brought me back down to earth.

It was on a normal afternoon during a visit to the plantation and the natural palm groves that I was led to the village by the river Kwenge.

This village was near the town of Kikwit, about 500km east of Kinshasa. Unilever had started its first palm oil mill there in 1911 to supply the soap factories in Liverpool.

In later years, the supplies increased from Malaysia and Indonesia.

Although the business had lost its role as an exporter, it was still an important supplier for the country.

Certainly, the community benefited from Unilever’s presence, employing a population that had experienced not only poverty but also diseases and epidemics such as AIDS and malaria.

Probably even Dr Steve Watson, the director of that region for Unilever Plantations, did not know that I would be installed that day as chief of the village.

It was likely the work of the chef de personnel, an ambitious person from the area.

The people were waiting around an open circle with a stool placed in the middle of the sandy floor.

I was invited to sit on the stool and as soon as the drums began to beat, the chief stepped up with gifts, including three arrows, a drum made of antelope skin and, to top it all, a fly whisk that he placed in my hand.

It was a symbol of power.

The chief’s hands shook slightly.

“You are the chief of this whole village and we are your people now. In your absence, I will be your assistant chief and I will take care of all affairs until your return.”

This was said in the Kikongo language, translated into French by the chef de personnel in a loud and unnecessarily lengthy manner to impress everyone, as I looked around me, and then translated into English by Dr Watson.

He was a Scot who had worked with me in Pamol Sabah and was now in charge of areas extending to the Kasai River.

For the next few days, I travelled with him to see the other plantations, at Mapangu and Bongimba, and I was warned in advance to take my pills against malaria.

In Kikwit, I was reminded of the real risk when I visited a young Belgian engineer at the company rest-house. He lay in bed, shivering.

A transport was arranged to take him to Kinshasa.

But soon after I returned home to Cobham in Surrey, I developed a fever and my body shook. It went on for a few days.

When I became delirious, Maznah took me back to the clinic and suggested to the young doctor: “It could be malaria treatment that he needs.”

The young doctor changed the medicine.

Probably malaria cases were rare in that small town before.

I stopped shivering but still felt feeble when I returned to the office.

Waiting for me were a few messages.

The first, with regret, informed me that the young engineer had died before he arrived in Brussels.

The others concerned changes in top management.

In Malaysia, Pamol had a new chairman who came from Unilever’s factories side and had not previously seen a plantation.

It was a time when many businesses were struggling.

This was a period that followed diversification – a mantra that didn’t always work – ending with the cutting off of parts that were considered non-core. The heroes of the day were directors who boasted about the number of managers they had laid off.

In Unilever’s case, the company decided to slot excess managers where it could and Pamol was not excluded.

The process had shifted from selecting people experienced in plantations.

This shift confirmed the fears that deterred managers from accepting overseas assignments, uncertain if they could return.

In my case, I had been based in London for three years.

Leslie Davidson had asked the personnel department to send me an offer letter for the position of managing director in Cameroon.

Barry Mack, who was there, had resigned for health reasons.

I had discussed this with Maznah and her answer was simple: “When you were sick, I sat by your bed each day, thinking how I might have to pull the children out of school and bring your body home in a box. I don’t want that stress anymore.” I had to refuse the job.

The next offer was to be the director of personnel in DR Congo for Unilever, with its vast business there.

The significant hardship allowance was tempting.

I was to take over the role from Colin Bewick.

I remembered supporting John Dodd, the plantations director, who had insisted on Colin’s departure. I had no idea that one day I’d be in this situation.

Maznah’s response was the same: “Let’s go home and you can look for another job.”

I spoke to Leslie Davidson. We remained close friends, but I knew that with the way head office operated, the decisions weren’t his alone.

“Go with Maznah and the children and stay for a month in Kuala Lumpur. See if you can find a job there. I’ll see what I can do.”

On the long flight back, I had much to think about.

The three children were on school holiday and although glad to be on a plane, they didn’t fully understand what was happening.

Soon I would be jobless. I felt powerless.

Even the fly whisk I kept at home couldn’t help me now.

The writer has extensive experience in the management of oil palm plantations.
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MALAYSIA, like many Southeast Asian countries, faces the challenge of balancing sustainability, reliability and affordability in its energy goals. Is the country ready for renewables?

The country has set ambitious targets: net-zero emissions by 2050 and increasing the share of renewable energy in its power mix. These goals are impressive and align with the global push towards sustainable energy. However, achieving them requires more than ambition. We need strategic planning, significant investment and innovative technologies.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Berlin in March was not just ceremonial; it highlighted the importance of international collaboration and technology transfer in supporting Malaysia’s renewable energy goals. Global partnerships are essential for advancing the nation’s energy future.

Malaysia’s Renewable Energy Roadmap aims for 31% of the country’s power capacity to come from renewable sources by 2025 and for carbon emissions to be reduced by 45% by 2030. As of 2022, renewable energy capacity has grown to over 9,000 megawatts – a 50% increase since 2013.

However, renewable sources only produced 3.1 terawatt-hours of electricity, compared with 77.3 terawatt-hours from coal. Clearly, there is room for growth.

Imagine a seamless flow of electrons from renewable sources such as solar and wind into the national grid. These sources are often in remote areas, far from the high-demand city centres. The challenge is transporting this energy efficiently and ensuring a stable supply despite the variable nature of renewables.

Intermittency, the fluctuation in energy production from sources like solar and wind, can cause instability in the power grid, which traditionally relies on consistent output from fossil fuels. If the grid is not ready to handle these fluctuations, it could lead to blackouts or energy shortages.

To avoid stranding existing assets, Malaysia can repurpose peaker plants or retired thermal power plants using the Rotating Grid Stabiliser solution. This cost-effective solution ensures a reliable energy supply during the transition.

Stabilising voltage and frequency with synchronous condensers enhances the grid’s reliability, making it easier to integrate renewable energy. This approach supports the grid and maximises existing infrastructure, making the transition more practical and economically viable.

As mentioned, some sources of energy are far from high-demand city centres. This is not just a challenge for Malaysia but for the entire Southeast Asia. Efficient energy transport would ensure secure energy for Malaysia and nearby countries, making the region more resilient.

The Asean Grid ambition aims to create an interconnected electricity system among member states. By developing this integrated network, we can enhance energy security, promote renewable energy use and ensure a more reliable power supply across borders.

Long-distance power transmission requires a strong grid infrastructure. High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology can efficiently transmit large amounts of power over long distances with minimal energy loss.

Think of HVDC as a superhighway for electricity. This technology will allow Malaysia to export surplus renewable energy to neighbouring countries like Singapore, fostering regional cooperation and energy security.

Modernising the grid with HVDC will enhance Malaysia’s energy system, allowing it to accommodate more renewable energy and reduce environmental impact. This interconnected grid will support Malaysia’s renewable energy goals and set a precedent for sustainable development in the region.

However, these goals come with challenges. The energy sector is still developing and needs substantial investments – up to US$10.8 billion (RM47.33 billion) for solar PV alone. There is also a lack of awareness about the financial returns on these investments, which can hinder progress.

Public-private partnerships, supported by a strong regulatory framework, can help overcome these obstacles. Key actions include improving the financing landscape, reducing project approval times and ensuring policy transparency.

We recognise the complexities of this transition. With every step, we can make progress.

Malaysia’s journey will involve expanding renewable energy use, transforming conventional power, strengthening electrical grids, securing the supply chain and driving industrial decarbonisation. Each action contributes to a greener Malaysia.

Thorbjorn Fors is the group senior
vice president and managing director of
Asia Pacific Siemens Energy.
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