MY state, Johor, is seeing a big rise in data centres. Many well-known companies from the United States, China and Singapore are choosing to set up their facilities here.

As a Johorean, I am proud to see the state becoming a bigger part of the digital economy. This did not happen by accident. Thanks to the efforts by leaders like Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who understands our local needs, Johor and Malaysia are becoming a key part of the digital economy.

This growth is bringing more businesses, improving infrastructure and offering new job opportunities, with benefits that can reach places like Segamat and Jementah too. Based on feedback from my constituents, they are excited with these developments.

Big gains, big potential

This is because data centres clearly bring benefits to Johor and the country. They are boosting our economy with big investments, which reached RM31 billion last year, funding new facilities, improving infrastructure.

The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry, including its Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong, who is also Iskandar Puteri MP, has played a key role in bringing in these investments to Johor.

These projects do not just benefit greater Johor Bahru; smaller towns like Segamat and Jementah have also seen gains through improved infrastructure, new business opportunities and enhanced social benefits.

When big companies such as Microsoft and others start major projects in Johor, it helps put our state and the nation on the map as a global tech hub. This can attract more savvy investments and businesses in the future, creating more growth that reaches different parts of the state.

Challenges to consider

However, we cannot ignore the downsides. Data centres consume a lot of energy and water, potentially straining our resources, especially since Johor has faced water shortages before. We need to grow in a way that does not harm the environment or local communities.

We must also balance land use carefully. Data centres take up a lot of space, and over-allocating land to them could limit growth in other sectors like agriculture or housing. It may also result in lower revenue and fewer job opportunities compared to if the land had been used for other economic activities.

As we know, data centres do not create as many jobs as we hope. Once they are built, they usually do not require too many staff on site.

We need to make sure that these centres generate as many good-paying jobs for the locals, whether directly or otherwise.

Mitigating drawbacks

To make sure this data centre boom benefits the people in the long-run, the government needs to take action. I am gratified to learn that the Finance Ministry and Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry are coming up with plans to make sure data centre investments bring long-term benefits.

The Finance Ministry has suggested the introduction of a “scorecard” to push companies to create good jobs, support local businesses and prioritise sustainability.

The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry’s guidelines for energy and water use are another positive step toward our zero-carbon goal for 2050.

Programmes like the Corporate Renewable Energy Supply Scheme will help data centres use more renewable energy, making operations cheaper in the long run. These are all good efforts.

Learning from our neighbour

As we move forward, we can look to Singapore’s experience with data centres, as our neighbour has had a head start in the sector.

It has leveraged technology transfer to build a strong, knowledge-based workforce, boosting its digital economy. By setting robust environmental standards, such as energy and water usage guidelines, Singapore has also pushed for greener practices in the industry.

Our current data centre boom should be a reminder for us to keep investing in our people and infrastructure for long-term growth.

We need to equip our youth with skills in cloud computing, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, and upgrade infrastructure like high-speed internet and reliable power supply. This will lay the foundation for lasting success.

For now, let us embrace this boom in data centre opportunities, but stay aware of the challenges. With careful planning, we can make Malaysia and Johor a tech hub that benefits everyone, and build a better future for our children.

Ng Kor Sim

State Assemblywoman for Jementah

Johor

WE have all experienced it – engaging in a discussion where new information or an opposing viewpoint makes us feel like doubling down on our beliefs rather than reconsidering them. This phenomenon, known as the backfire effect, occurs when people react
to contradictory information by holding more firmly to their existing beliefs.

The backfire effect can create a barrier to constructive dialogue, fostering defensiveness and preventing us from learning, evolving and understanding each other. With complex social issues on the rise, understanding the backfire effect and learning how to counteract it is essential to creating productive and respectful conversations.

The backfire effect is most common in debates involving personal values or issues closely tied to identity, such as opinions on social, environmental or political matters.

For example, in Malaysia, discussions on humane stray management or environmental policy can often spark passionate debates where each side becomes more rooted in their stance.

Recognising when the backfire effect is influencing a conversation can help us redirect it, moving from argument to dialogue and creating spaces for understanding and potential solutions.

At its core, the backfire effect is rooted in psychological defensiveness. When people’s beliefs are challenged, particularly on issues they are deeply invested in, it can feel like a threat to their sense of self.

Psychologists suggest that this is because we tend to intertwine certain beliefs with our identity, making it difficult to separate disagreement with an idea from a personal attack. This effect is more pronounced when discussing issues tied to social identity, politics or moral values.

Additionally, the fear of admitting error can make us cling to our views. If we have championed a particular idea or belief, admitting that we may have been mistaken can be uncomfortable. The backfire effect is a subconscious way of defending against this discomfort by rejecting new information and doubling down on previous beliefs.

Techniques for engaging in constructive debates

Understanding the backfire effect is the first step towards overcoming it, but real progress requires adopting strategies that can help us and others engage in more open, constructive discussions.

Here are several techniques to help foster productive dialogue,
reduce defensiveness and encourage open-mindedness:

Lead with curiosity, not conviction

Entering a conversation with a desire to understand rather than persuade is essential. Leading with curiosity helps set a collaborative tone, showing others that you are genuinely interested in their perspective.

For example, if someone disagrees with humane stray management practices like trap-neuter-release (TNR), you may start by saying, “I’m interested in your view – what experiences shape your opinion on this?”

This approach can disarm defensiveness and invite the person to share their experiences, making them more likely to reciprocate by considering your perspective.

Share stories, not just statistics

Facts and figures are essential but they often fail to connect emotionally. To counter the backfire effect, try sharing personal stories or experiences instead of relying solely on statistics.

For instance, in conversations about environmental policy, instead of only quoting data about pollution or deforestation, share a personal story about how environmental changes have affected your community or family. Stories humanise issues, making it easier for others to empathise and consider different viewpoints.

Emphasise shared goals and values

Even when opinions differ, finding common ground can help make the conversation more collaborative. For instance, both sides of a debate on environmental policies may share the same goal – a cleaner environment and a better quality of life – but disagree on how to achieve it.

By highlighting these shared values, you shift the conversation from an “us vs them” dynamics to a joint problem-solving approach. Statements like “we both want what is best for future generations; we just have different ideas about how to get there” can help bridge divides and reduce defensiveness.

Introduce new information gradually

Presenting too much information at once can make people feel overwhelmed, triggering a defensive response. Instead, offer new ideas or evidence in small, manageable pieces.

For example, if discussing environmental laws, introduce one or two key points rather than a long list of statistics. Gradual information- sharing allows individuals to process new perspectives without feeling pressured to accept them immediately, which can reduce the likelihood of the backfire effect.

Reframe disagreements as learning opportunities

Changing the way you frame a discussion can help mitigate defensiveness. Rather than seeing a debate as a “battle” to be won, approach it as a chance to learn.

This mindset shift encourages openness and reduces the need for defensiveness. When someone feels that a discussion is about sharing knowledge rather than proving a point, they are more likely to listen and engage constructively.

Know when to step back

Not every debate will lead to agreement, and that is okay. If a discussion becomes heated or begins to feel unproductive, it may be time to disengage respectfully.

Try phrases like, “I appreciate hearing your perspective, and I think we may have to agree to disagree for now. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.”

This approach allows both parties to leave
the conversation without feeling pressured, preserving the relationship for future discussions.

In Malaysia, topics like stray animal management and environmental policies are prime examples of where the backfire effect
often arises.

On one side, many advocate for humane and sustainable stray management practices, such as TNR, which can reduce stray populations over time. Others, however, may believe in stricter measures, fearing that strays could pose health or safety risks.

In such debates, the backfire effect can quickly escalate, with both sides becoming more entrenched as they try to defend their views.

To move forward constructively, a focus on shared goals – like safer communities and reduced stray populations – can shift the conversation from debate to dialogue.

In Malaysia, environmental policies are at a crossroads, often sparking strong opinions due to their impact across different economic levels.

Stricter policies aimed at protecting natural resources are crucial, yet they also raise concerns about their potential economic burden on lower-income communities, who may rely heavily on resource-based jobs.

Balancing the urgent need for environmental protection with the livelihoods of these communities is complex but essential.

A sustainable path forward lies in building
a common ground around shared values – a commitment to a clean, healthy environment alongside economic stability for all. This inclusive approach can help foster productive dialogue and more resilient, equitable policies.

Ultimately, overcoming the backfire effect requires us to approach conversations with empathy, open-mindedness and a willingness to understand where others are coming from.

Constructive debates are less about changing someone’s mind on the spot and more about creating a space where learning and growth are possible.

By leading with curiosity, sharing personal stories and finding common ground, we
can transform difficult conversations into opportunities for connection and progress.

Dr Praveena is a certified
mental health and awareness practitioner specialising in narcissistic abuse recovery.
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

IT is sickening to read about students and cadets in educational institutions or military academies being subjected to ragging and bullying, often resulting in grievous injuries and even deaths.

The archaic and pernicious practice of ragging, often referred to as fagging in elite boarding schools, or simply as ritualistic hazing in military academies, persists today as a toxic relic of colonial-era power structures.

This practice can be traced to the cloistered halls of upper-class English boarding schools. It is a ritual of bullying and humiliation that has long been wielded as a tool for enforcing hierarchical dominance and conformist obedience.

The prevalence of such practices, even in post-colonial, democratic societies like Malaysia, is not merely an anachronism but a stark contradiction to the principles of egalitarianism and care that should underpin modern educational systems.

I remember how it was so prevalent in the sixties when we were in sixth form as well as in the universities.

Origins of ragging/bullying: An elite tradition of oppression

Ragging finds its roots in the so-called prestigious institutions of Victorian England – Eton, Harrow and Winchester – where the upper classes refined a system of abuse disguised as character-building.

The concept of fagging emerged in these schools to establish a rigid social hierarchy among boys, where younger students were essentially forced into servitude by older ones.

The practice was framed as a means of instilling discipline and preparing young men for leadership roles.

In reality, it was a mechanism to perpetuate elitism, dominance and subservience – indoctrinating children into a culture of abuse under the guise of tradition.

When these elite practices were exported to colonial territories, they were often adopted by local institutions eager to emulate the supposed prestige of their British overlords.

In this way, ragging became an insidious form of cultural imperialism, embedding colonial power structures within the social fabric of post-colonial nations.

The toxic legacy in post-colonial societies

In countries like Malaysia and other former British colonies, ragging has been adopted and adapted, often becoming even more extreme and violent than its original form.

In military academies and universities, what began as a series of petty humiliations has escalated into physical, sexual and psychological abuse.

There is a perverse justification offered for this brutality: that it fosters camaraderie, resilience and esprit de corps. Yet the reality is far more disturbing.

The sheer brutality of these practices has led to multiple instances of severe injury, trauma and even death.

In Malaysia, there have been numerous cases of young cadets and students suffering injuries that have left them physically and emotionally scarred for life.

The veneer of tradition masks the fact that ragging is simply systematic bullying, an exercise in power and control that normalises the abuse of the vulnerable.

We have just seen yet another bullying case at the National Defence University where a 19-year-old cadet was allegedly stomped on by a senior, fracturing his spine and ribs.

Last month, a hot iron was pressed on the chest of a student at a military university, just months after courts handed the death penalty to six former students over the killing of a fellow cadet at the institution.

There have been other cases such as J. Soosaimanicckam, a 27-year-old navy cadet officer, who died of homicide at the KD Sultan Idris Lumut naval base on May 19, 2018.

Beyond universities, bullying is also on the rise in public schools.

Nearly 5,000 cases of bullying were reported over the first 10 months of 2023, according to the latest data from the Education Ministry, a sharp rise from 3,887 cases for the whole of 2022.

Failure of institutional accountability

The persistence of ragging is compounded by the complicity of educational institutions, which often turn a blind eye to the abuse, framing it as a rite of passage.

Administrators and faculty, many of whom are former students of the same institutions, perpetuate a culture of silence.

This lack of accountability only emboldens the perpetrators, creating an environment where victims feel powerless to speak out.

Military academies are notorious for their strict hierarchical structure, which leaves little room for dissent.

The emphasis on blind obedience and unquestioning discipline suppresses the voices of those who are most affected.

The rhetoric of “toughening up” young recruits masks the reality that many leave these academies with lifelong trauma, not strengthened resolve.

In this way, the very institutions tasked with building national character are guilty of undermining the values of respect, empathy and human dignity.

Call for cultural, institutional reform

It is both ironic and tragic that post-colonial nations like Malaysia, which fought for independence and the promise of a fair and just society, continue to perpetuate a colonial legacy that embodies the worst aspects of imperial rule.

Ragging and its equivalents are antithetical to the values that should define modern, democratic societies.

Instead of reinforcing outdated and oppressive traditions, Malaysia should be leading the way in promoting caring, compassionate and egalitarian values in its educational and military institutions.

A modern educational system should focus on mentorship, mutual respect and leadership through empathy rather than through intimidation and violence.

The true strength of a society lies not in its ability to produce individuals hardened by abuse but in its capacity to cultivate individuals who are resilient, confident and empathetic because they have been nurtured, not beaten down.

By fostering a culture of inclusivity and care, Malaysia can become a beacon of progress in a world where too many institutions are still mired in the shadows of a brutal, colonial past.

Conclusion

It is time to consign ragging to the dustbin of history where it belongs.

This practice, born of elitist arrogance and colonial condescension, has no place in the educational institutions of a modern, independent nation.

Instead of clinging to the trappings of colonial tradition, Malaysia should embrace its role as a leader in creating an educational environment that promotes equality, dignity and mutual respect.

By doing so, it can offer its youth something far more valuable than the scars of ritualistic abuse: the chance to learn and grow in an environment free from fear and filled with the promise of genuine support and solidarity.

It is time we banned this hideous practice in our institutions once and for all.

Kua Kia Soong is a former MP and director of Suaram. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

MANY will have forgotten a speech by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last May, in which he called for more frequent dialogues between people of different faiths to build bridges across cultures and religions.

Last November, Anwar spoke on the importance of moral empowerment and how the values shared by two religions – Islam and Confucianism – can guide us towards more ethical paths.

The big lesson we can learn from Confucius is that relationships in the family should be a model for larger circles of relationship. From Islam, we learn that we need to organise ourselves into a unified citizenry to shape a new era of global ethical governance.

Anwar’s remarks are timely as Malaysia has sunk into a deep moral crisis, and everyone needs to realise that if this crisis stays unresolved, it will cripple our nation. It is the crisis of dishonesty.

Johan Jaafar, a renowned journalist, had written two years ago: “Some believe integrity, the very foundation of honesty and consistency of character, is fast evaporating. We have changed as a nation, sadly not for the better. Dishonesty is a virus that is endangering the future of the nation.”

Imagine the consequences if every member of a family is dishonest: spouses are dishonest with each other, and as parents they are dishonest with their children. In turn, children are dishonest with their parents and siblings. The family will break up. This is Malaysia’s fate if we fail to eliminate the web of dishonesty before it enwraps us all in its coils like a million-tentacled monster.

The lack of honest responsibility infects the public and private sectors as well as their hybrid entities – the government-linked companies (GLC) and government-linked investment companies (GLIC).

Let us start by examining the visible signs of dishonesty within the public sector. Almost all of our cities have one common feature: unrepaired potholes and road depressions. It may take months for local councils to act, and when contractors are hired, they frequently use substandard materials.

But why is it dishonest for civil servants to be slow in addressing these issues? Officers are paid to be productive, and not to slack. Delays cost money, and the cost is unmeasured because vehicle repair expenses are borne by vehicle owners.

Many road users have suffered vehicle damage, bodily injuries, and some have even lost their lives due to long-unrepaired potholes and road iron covers that sit lower than the road surface. Little effort is made to raise these iron covers, which sink over time due to cracks in the surrounding concrete or when the road is resurfaced.

Walk through most of our cities and notice the poor maintenance that characterises many public buildings, infrastructure and amenities. The upkeep of drains is particularly appalling.

Litter on public streets and sidewalks often remains uncollected for weeks and months, yet
cleaning service contractors are routinely paid their monthly fees. Isn’t this blatant dishonesty?

Lately, it has been revealed that the C-suites of some GLC and GLIC routinely enjoy fully paid luxury overseas holidays regardless of whether their companies outperform or underperform. Are these legitimate job rewards?

Let us turn to the private sector. Everywhere you look, the monster of dishonesty is prowling. Our cities are dotted with People’s Housing Projects, yet many residents fail to pay the low maintenance fees, despite having Astro and owning cars.

We have not yet addressed fraud and tax evasion, but now we must turn to one of the most insidious forms of dishonesty, second only to political corruption: scams. All our lives are being touched by scams. If you have not been a victim, and do not know anyone who has, it simply means your turn has not come.

In 2022, RM804 million was lost to scammers, and the figure surged to RM1.34 billion last year, according to the Communications and Digital Ministry. In 2023, a total of 33,235 scam cases were reported to the National Scam Response Centre. The government believes the actual
losses may be higher, as many cases were reported directly to the police.

Victims have fallen prey to telecommunication scams, financial fraud, love scams, e-commerce scams, fake loans and bogus investments. Many have lost their life savings. Complaints about investment scams shot up by over 300% between 2019 and 2023, the Securities Commission revealed last week. Nearly RM1 billion has been lost to investment scammers so far this year.

The notorious scam, long known as the “macao scam”, may be more accurately described as the “jail scam” because the tactic used is to frighten victims into believing they have committed a crime and will be detained in jail.

Last year’s victims included many people in their 40s, 50s and 60s, and one person in his 20s. Among them were teachers and lecturers, managers, analysts, doctors, farmers, engineers, pensioners and civil servants.

The standard tactic involves a junior scammer posing as an official from a government ministry, such as the tax department, courier company, shipping company, bank, post office, insurance company or similar. You are informed that your name has appeared in a suspicious document.

Once you express concern, two senior scammers will take over, pretending to be a police sergeant and an inspector. They claim that a crime has been committed in your name and a warrant for your arrest has been issued, with detention pending investigation. The “good guy” sergeant offers you a way out – the usual one, of course: transferring large sums of money to several bank accounts.

A tragedy occurred at the end of last year when a 95-year-old retired civil servant, who had been scammed out of RM18,000, became deeply distressed. His health rapidly deteriorated and he passed away.

The scammers are a multiethnic force of locals. We know this because they are able to speak any language that their victims are most comfortable with. Backing up the scammers are large networks of collaborators with jobs that grant them access to databases, and who sell personal details, including phone numbers. Around 73% of mobile phone numbers used by approximately 20 million people in Malaysia have been leaked or sold to scammers.

Another network of collaborators are bank account holders who rent or sell their accounts to scammers. These accounts then become mule accounts to which scam victims are asked to transfer their money. Three months ago, the federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department disclosed that it had identified over 208,000 mule accounts linked to online scams and commercial crime activities.

These two networks cannot exist unless those in higher positions let it happen. Negligence is a form of dishonesty because superior officers are paid to remain vigilant.

The underlying reason for the spread of dishonesty is the erosion of the nation’s cooperative spirit. Honesty and cooperation are closely intertwined; honesty fosters trust, which is essential for effective cooperation. Trust signals reliability, encouraging others to cooperate, knowing they are dealing with fellow citizens who value truthfulness.

In the formative years of civilisation, religion and politics were the twin foundational pillars of society. State religions developed public rituals to ensure that the honesty and cooperative behaviour that once bound members of small hunter-gatherer tribes together as one family would persist, despite the large, unrelated populations characteristic of urban societies.

However, these same rituals are conducted today as mere requirements for obtaining a passport to heaven in the afterlife. All our religions are now mired in ritualistic shows of loyalty to God and conformity to set practices.

Although there are nine prominent religions in Malaysia – Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Jainism and the Bahai Faith – they have failed to mould a united front to uphold cooperative behaviour.

Many religions have exploited the nation’s multifaith diversity to expand their membership in line with supremacist leanings, competing with other religions instead of bonding as one genre to provide high standards of honesty and cooperative behaviour for all citizens. Such rivalry undermines trust.

One common occurrence demonstrates this self-centredness. We are used to labelling the people of other religions as “unbelievers” or “non-believers” despite every citizen professing to uphold the first principle of the Rukunegara – Belief in God. They should be called friends.

By maintaining their traditional conservatism instead of forging a united front, our religions have created a moral vacuum that allows the web of dishonesty to spread over society. Abundant sociohistorical evidence points to the conclusion that without trust and cooperation, a nation will perish.

The writer champions interfaith harmony. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

BEIRUT: The Israeli military carried out at least five airstrikes on the Hezbollah-controlled southern suburbs of Beirut on Tuesday, after Israel’s defence minister ruled out any ceasefire in Lebanon until Israel’s goals had been met.

Smoke rose over Beirut as blasts shook the capital around mid-morning. The explosions followed an Israeli military warning posted on social media identifying 12 sites in the southern suburbs and saying it would take action against them soon. It warned residents they were located near Hezbollah facilities.

There were no immediate reports of casualties from the latest strikes. Residents have largely fled the southern suburbs since Israel began bombing the area in September.

In Israel, air raid sirens sounded in parts of the north, sending residents running for shelter, and the military said a number of “suspicious aerial targets” were launched from Lebanon. There were no reports of injuries.

Ignited by the Gaza war, the conflict at the Lebanese-Israeli border had been rumbling on for a year before Israel went on the offensive in September, pounding wide areas of Lebanon with airstrikes and sending troops into the south.

Israel has dealt heavy blows to Hezbollah over the last seven weeks, killing many of its top leaders including Hassan Nasrallah, flattening parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs, and causing vast destruction in border villages in south Lebanon.

Meeting with Israel’s general staff for the first time, Israel’s newly appointed Defence Minister Israel Katz said on Monday there would be no ceasefire in Lebanon until Israel achieves its goals.

“Israel will not agree to any arrangement that does not guarantee Israel’s right to enforce and prevent terrorism on its own, and meet the goals of the war in Lebanon - disarming Hezbollah and its withdrawal beyond the Litani River and returning the residents of the north safely to their homes.”

Israel’s foreign minister Gideon Saar had said earlier on Monday there had been “a certain progress” in ceasefire talks, whilst adding the war against Hezbollah was not yet over.

The main challenge facing any ceasefire deal would be enforcement, he said.

Hezbollah has said it is ready for a long war against Israel and has kept up rocket fire.

SOUTH OF THE LITANI

The Lebanese government, which includes Hezbollah, has repeatedly called for a ceasefire based on the full implementation of a U.N. Resolution that ended a war between the group and Israel in 2006.

The resolution calls for the area south of the Litani to be free of all weapons other than those of the Lebanese state. Lebanon and Israel have accused each other of violating the resolution.

Israel’s offensive has driven more than 1 million people from their homes in Lebanon in the last seven weeks. Since hostilities erupted a year ago, Israeli attacks on Lebanon have killed 3,243 people and injured 14,134, the Lebanese health ministry said. Its figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Hezbollah attacks have killed roughly 100 civilians and soldiers in northern Israel, the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, and southern Lebanon over the last year.

LONDON: The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby resigned on Tuesday, saying he stepped down “in sorrow” after failing to ensure there was a proper investigation into allegations of abuse by a volunteer at Christian summer camps decades ago.

Welby, the spiritual leader of 85 million Anglicans worldwide, had faced calls to resign after a report last week found he had taken insufficient action to stop a person it described as arguably the Church of England’s most prolific serial abuser.

“Having sought the gracious permission of His Majesty The King, I have decided to resign as Archbishop of Canterbury,“ Welby said in a statement.

“I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church. As I step down I do so in sorrow with all victims and survivors of abuse.”

JAKARTA: Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto met with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House on Tuesday and offered his congratulations to President-elect Donald Trump by phone during an official visit to Washington.

“I will work very hard to strengthen Indonesian-United States relationship, and I would like to work towards this end that we have a strong cooperation,“ said Prabowo.

Prabowo, who has said he will pursue a non-aligned foreign policy, met with Biden in the Oval Office after posting a video of his call to Trump.

He arrived in Washington straight from China, where he had met with President Xi Jinping on his first overseas trip since taking office last month.

Washington sees Indonesia, the most populous country in Southeast Asia, as an important partner in a region where its rival Beijing has deep trade and investment ties. Indonesia is also the world's most populous Muslim-majority country.

While China is a key economic partner for Indonesia, Jakarta has also become a big buyer of U.S. arms, and it wants to sell the West more metals from its mines.

At the White House, Biden said the two leaders were discussing climate, conflict in the Middle East and the South China Sea.

Indonesia said on Monday it does not recognize China's claims over the vast majority of the South China Sea, despite signing a maritime development deal with Beijing.

“We continue to encourage Indonesia to work with their legal experts to make sure any agreement they make with (the People’s Republic of China) is in accordance with international law, especially the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea,“ said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre at a press briefing.

TRUMP CALL

Prabowo's office said he made the call to Trump on Monday after arriving in Washington. It did not immediately respond when asked if he is scheduled to meet Trump in person.

“Wherever you are, I’m willing to fly to congratulate you personally, sir,“ Prabowo said in the video of the call posted on his social media accounts.

“We’ll do that, anytime you want,“ Trump replied.

Trump described his own election victory as amazing, and said it gave him a big mandate.

He also said the Indonesian president was “very respected,“ and praised his English, to which Prabowo, a former special forces commander, replied: “All my training is American, sir.”

Prabowo also met with several U.S. company representatives in Washington, his office said, including from Freeport McMoRan and energy company Chevron, and urged the companies to invest in Indonesia. (Reporting by Stanley Widianto in Jakarta and Jeff Mason in Washington; Writing by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by John Mair, David Gregorio and Rosalba O'Brien)

WASHINGTON: A federal jury on Tuesday ordered a US defense contractor to pay $42 million in damages to three Iraqi men who were tortured at Abu Ghraib prison, their lawyers said.

CACI Premier Technology Inc was found liable at the conclusion of a long-running trial for its role in the torture of the three men at the notorious prison in 2003 and 2004, the Center for Constitutional Rights said.

Suhail Al Shimari, a middle school principal, Asa’ad Zuba’e, a fruit vendor, and Salah Al-Ejaili, a journalist, were each awarded $14 million in damages, the center said in a statement.

The three men filed suit against CACI, a private company based in Arlington, Virginia, in 2008.

Abu Ghraib prison, west of Baghdad, became a potent negative symbol of the US occupation of Iraq after evidence emerged of detainee abuse by American soldiers at the facility.

Most of the abuse took place at the end of 2003, when CACI employees were working in the prison, according to the suit.

The company’s civilian employees were accused of having encouraged US soldiers to abuse the prisoners to prepare them for interrogation.

Criminal charges were brought against 11 low-ranking guards, including former army reserve specialist Lynndie England, who was shown smiling in photographs while posing next to naked prisoners.

The case against CACI was brought under a section of the US Code called the Alien Tort Statute, which allows non-US citizens to file suit in US courts for human rights violations for incidents that took place outside the United States.

CACI claimed that most of the alleged abuse was approved by the then-US defense secretary, Donald Rumsfeld, and incorporated into rules of engagement by military commanders at the prison.

“Today is a big day for me and for justice,“ Al-Ejaili said in a statement.

“This victory is a shining light for everyone who has been oppressed and a strong warning to any company or contractor practicing different forms of torture and abuse.”

Katherine Gallagher, an attorney at the Center for Constitutional Rights, welcomed the jury’s verdict saying it “makes clear CACI’s role in this shameful part of our history.”

“Private military and security contractors are put on notice that they can and will be held accountable when they breach the most fundamental international law protections -- like the prohibition against torture,“ Gallagher said.

“For 20 years, CACI has refused to take responsibility for its role in torture at Abu Ghraib.”

MADRID: Schools in flood-hit towns in eastern Spain will be closed on Wednesday as the region braces for more torrential rains, officials said.

National weather office AEMET on Tuesday placed parts of Valencia as well as Catalonia in the northeast and Andalusia in the south and the Balearic Islands on orange alert -- the second highest level -- for strong or torrential rains until Thursday.

The alert comes two weeks after an exceptional Mediterranean storm caused Spain's deadliest floods in decades.

The October 29 storm killed 223 people, the bulk of them in the Valencia region, according to the latest official tally.

Dozens of town halls in Valencia, including Chiva, one of the worst-hit sites, suspended classes and closed public gyms because of the threats of more heavy rain.

“In response to the information provided by the emergency services, school and sports activities will be SUSPENDED from tomorrow until further notice,“ Chiva town hall wrote on X.

A military vehicle drove through towns in Valencia using a megaphone to warn of the expected storms and urge people not to make “unnecessary trips,“ images broadcast on Spanish public television TVE showed,

While the amount of rain that is forecast to fall in Valencia is less than what fell two weeks ago, local officials warned sewage systems are clogged with mud and could struggle to cope with significant precipitation making more flooding possible.

Outrage at the authorities for their perceived mismanagement before and after the floods triggered mass protests on Saturday, the largest in Valencia city which drew 130,000 people.

Classes were also suspended on Wednesday in parts of southern Catalonia as well as some towns and cities in Andalusia, inclusing Malaga.

JAKARTA: Airlines in Australia, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia and Singapore cancelled flights to and from the Indonesian resort island of Bali on Wednesday, after a nearby volcano catapulted an ash tower miles into the sky.

Australia’s Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia all grounded flights after Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki on Flores island spewed a nine-kilometre (5.6-mile) tower a day earlier.

Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, India’s IndiGo and Singapore’s Scoot also listed flights as cancelled on Wednesday, according to an AFP journalist at Bali’s international airport.

“Volcanic ash poses a significant threat to safe operations of the aircraft in the vicinity of volcanic clouds,“ said AirAsia as it announced several cancellations.

Multiple eruptions from the 1,703-metre (5,587-foot) twin-peaked volcano in recent weeks have killed nine people, with 31 injured and more than 11,000 evacuated, Indonesia’s disaster mitigation agency said Tuesday.

Eruptions can pose serious risks to flights, disgorging fine ash that can damage jet engines and scour a plane’s windscreen to the point of invisibility.

Hong Kong’s Cathay Pacific also listed its flights as cancelled, rescheduling routes to and from Bali until Thursday.

“Virgin Australia has made some changes to its current flight schedule, due to the impacts of the volcano in Indonesia,“ the airline said, listing scrapped flights to Sydney and Melbourne.

Jetstar said all flights to and from Bali would be halted until noon on Thursday.

“Due to volcanic ash caused by the Mount Lewotobi eruption in Indonesia, it is currently not safe to operate flights to and from Bali,“ the company said in an advisory.

Qantas said “a number of flights to and from Denpasar Airport in Bali have been disrupted” due to volcanic ash from Lewotobi.

Malaysia Airlines said it had cancelled six flights Wednesday in a statement on its website.

The airlines said they would monitor the volcano’s status and provide updates.

Singapore’s Scoot and Malaysia’s AirAsia did not immediately respond to an AFP request for comment. Singapore Airlines was still listing its flights as running on Wednesday.

refunds, rescheduling, re-routing

Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, general manager of Bali’s international airport, said 12 domestic and 22 international flights had been affected on Tuesday, without identifying the routes.

He did not provide details about affected flights on Wednesday’s schedule.

“Due to this natural event impacting flight operations, airlines are offering affected passengers the options of refunds, rescheduling, or re-routing,“ he added in a statement.

Bali’s international airport operator PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia said Wednesday it had conducted tests in its airspace and no volcanic ash was detected, saying the airport was “operating as normal”.

Lewotobi erupted again from midnight Wednesday until early morning, and a large ash column could be seen pouring from its crater, an AFP journalist nearby said.

Laki-Laki, which means “man” in Indonesian, is twinned with a calmer volcano named after the Indonesian word for “woman”.

The island’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism but Indonesia is one of the most disaster-prone nations on Earth, straddling the Pacific Ring of Fire where tectonic plates collide.

Lombok, an island neighbouring Bali, was rocked by earthquakes in 2018 that killed more than 500 and sparked a mass exodus of foreigners from the tropical paradise.

NEW DELHI: A toxic haze enveloped India’s national capital on Wednesday morning as temperatures dropped and pollution surged, reducing visibility in some parts and prompting a warning from airport authorities that flights may be affected.

Delhi overtook Pakistan’s Lahore as the world’s most polluted city in Swiss group IQAir’s live rankings, with an air quality index (AQI) score of more than 1,000, considered “hazardous”, but India’s pollution authority said the AQI was around 350.

Officials were not immediately available to explain the variation.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the pollution had reduced visibility to 100 metres (328 feet) in some places by around 8 a.m. (0230 GMT).

“Low visibility procedures” were initiated at the city’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, operator Delhi International Airport Limited said in a post on social media platform X.

“While landing and takeoffs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected,“ the authority said.

CAT III is a navigation system that enables aircraft to land even when visibility is low.

The IMD said the city’s temperature dropped to 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit) on Wednesday morning from 17.9C on Tuesday, and may fall further as sunlight remains cut off due to the smog.

Delhi battles severe pollution every winter as cold, heavy air traps dust, emissions, and smoke from farm fires set off illegally in the adjoining, farming states of Punjab and Haryana.

Previously, authorities have closed schools, placed restrictions on private vehicles, and stopped some building work to curb the problem.

The city’s environment minister said last week that the government was keen to use artificial rain to cut the smog.

Pakistan’s Punjab province, which shares a border with India, has also banned outdoor activities, closed schools, and ordered shops, markets and malls to close early in some parts in an effort to protect its citizens from the toxic air.

TOY manufacturer Mattel have removed thousands of its ‘Wicked’-branded dolls off the shelves after discovering a x-rated printing error on the packaging.

The dolls were made in collaboration with the movie adaptation of the award-winning musical ‘Wicked’, fashioned after the characters.

CNBC reported that the website link printed on the dolls’ packaging lead to a pornographic website instead of the ‘Wicked’ movie adaptation’s official website.

Quoting Mattel’s apology statement, the company stated it was “aware” of a misprint on the doll’s packaging, mainly sold in US, intended to direct consumers to the movie’s landing page.

ALSO READ: M’sian netizens mock local uni for spelling ‘exercise’ as ‘eksesais’ in congratulatory post

“We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this. Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children,” Mattel was quoted as saying.

The company also advised consumers who have already purchased the dolls with the misprint to throw away the packaging or “obsure”, as quoted, the website link.

Following the misprint revelation, several online retailers across the US have pulled the dolls off their shelves as of Monday (Nov 11).

However, it is unclear if the toy manufacturing company will release the dolls with the correct print details or provide stickers to cover the mistakenly printed link.

ALSO READ: ‘Rail My Life’: KTM’s free ride campaign poster leaves netizens amused at mistaken wording

KYIV: Russia escalated its attacks on Kyiv early Wednesday, launching waves of drones and missiles in its first combined aerial assault on the capital in more than 70 days, authorities said.

The broadside came as Washington and Seoul echoed warnings from Ukraine that North Korean troops had begun “engaging in combat operations” alongside Russian forces on the border between the warring countries.

A security source in Kyiv meanwhile told AFP that Ukraine was behind the assassination of a high-ranking Russian naval officer in a car bombing on the annexed Crimean peninsula.

Ukraine’s air force said its units had downed four missiles and 37 drones launched by Russia over eight regions of Ukraine overnight and into Wednesday morning.

“It is important that our forces have the means to defend the country from Russian terror,“ President Volodymyr Zelensky said in response to the attack.

Ukraine has for months been appealing to its Western allies to provide more air-defence systems to fend off Russian attacks on cities and critical infrastructure.

The large-scale bombardment comes at a critical moment on the battlefield. Russian forces are advancing in the east and concerns are growing over future aid for Ukraine after US Donald Trump’s victory in presidential elections.

Explosions in Kyiv, residents shelter

AFP journalists heard explosions ring out over Kyiv and saw dozens of residents seeking shelter in an underground metro station in the centre of the capital.

Kyiv officials said one man was wounded by falling debris from a downed drone in the suburb of Brovary, while emergency services distributed images of firefighters battling flames at one impact site.

A separate drone attack in the Ukrainian-controlled southern region of Kherson, which the Kremlin claims is part of Russia, killed a 52-year-old woman, the regional head said.

Multiple air raid sirens rang out early Wednesday as authorities said missiles were closing in on Kyiv, which was home to nearly three million people before Russia invaded in February 2022.

“As missiles were approaching Kyiv, the enemy simultaneously launched a ballistic missile attack on the capital. The enemy attack ended with another drone strike,“ city authorities said.

The attack is the latest in an uptick in escalating strikes on Ukrainian cities, mainly in the south of the war-battered country.

A Russian strike this week on Kryvyi Rig, Zelensky’s hometown, killed a 32-year-old mother and her three children.

The Kremlin has repeatedly denied its forces target civilians in Ukraine, a claim its spokesman repeated Wednesday in response to a question over whether Russian forces were working to minimise civilian casualties.

Crimea assassination

“Russian forces treat the civilian population with great care,“ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, adding that Russia would continue its attacks.

Last week, Moscow and Kyiv launched record overnight drone attacks on each other.

Russian ground forces have been making rapid advances in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, which the Kremlin claims is part of Russia.

On Wednesday, the Russian defence ministry said its troops had wrested control of the village of Rivnopil, where an estimated 98 people lived before the invasion.

As the Kremlin’s forces advance westwards, Kyiv has warned that Russia has amassed a force of 50,000 troops -- including North Korean soldiers -- to push out Ukrainian forces from the Russian border region of Kursk.

In Brussels, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday warned about the deployment of North Korean troops alongside Russian forces fighting on the Ukrainian border.

Blinken said he discussed with NATO chief Mark Rutte the fact that North Korean forces had been “injected into the battle, and now, quite literally, in combat which demands and will get a firm response.”

South Korea’s spy agency said North Korean soldiers were “engaging in combat” in Kursk, hours after US officials confirmed Pyongyang’s troops were actively fighting for Moscow against Ukraine.

Separately,a source in the Security Service of Ukraine said the agency had orchestrated a car bomb attack in the city of Sevastopol that killed a senior naval officer in the Black Sea Fleet.

The killing of Valery Trankovsky, which was confirmed by Moscow, is the latest in a string of targeted attacks on Russian military officers and pro-Kremlin public figures in occupied Ukrainian territory and within Russia.

Crimea was seized by Russia in 2014 in the wake of pro-democracy protests in Kyiv that sparked fighting in the east with Kremlin-backed separatists.

CAIRO: Sudan has seen a surge in extreme violence in recent weeks as the warring military and paramilitary push for a decisive victory, with no political solution in sight.

Fighting between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has intensified since late October, with reports of attacks on civilians including sexual violence against women and girls raising alarm.

The war that erupted in April 2023 has created what the UN calls the world’s worst displacement crises, with more than 11 million people forced from their homes.

It has put the country on the brink of famine, and sparked warnings of intensifying violence in a war that has already killed tens of thousands.

“Over the last two weeks, the situation in the country has been marked by some of the most extreme violence since the start of the conflict,“ according to Rosemary DiCarlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

“Let me stress that both warring parties bear responsibility for this violence,“ she said, adding that both sides “seem convinced they can prevail on the battlefield.”

Since October 20, at least 124 civilians have been killed in central Al-Jazira state and another 135,000 have fled to other states, according to the UN.

With global attention focused on other wars, chiefly in Ukraine and the Middle East, civilians in Sudan are paying a steep price for the escalation.

“All indicators so far show that both sides are committed to military solutions, with no genuine interest in political resolutions or even easing the suffering of civilians,“ according to Mohamed Osman of Human Rights Watch.

Amani al-Taweel, director of the Africa programme at the Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies in Cairo, agreed.

“There is no political solution on the horizon,“ she told AFP, adding that both sides were seeking a “decisive military solution”.

Split

The war in Sudan has pitted army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan against his erstwhile ally Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, leader of the RSF.

The country is split into zones of control, with the army holding the north and east, and the government based in Port Sudan on the Red Sea coast.

The RSF controls much of the capital Khartoum, the Darfur region in the west and parts of Kordofan in the south, while the centre is split.

With no mandatory military conscription, the Sudanese army includes Islamist-leaning forces as well as other factions.

The RSF is primarily made up of tribal militias from Darfur’s Arab communities.

According to local reports, the army has about 120,000 troops while the RSF has 100,000.

On the battlefield, Sudan’s air force gives the military an advantage.

Rights groups have accused both sides of committing atrocities.

The UN population agency published on Tuesday horrific accounts of women and girls fleeing the violence, including one who said she was urged to kill herself with a knife rather than be raped.

‘Deadlock’

Successive rounds of talks have been held in Saudi Arabia, but the negotiations have yet to produce a ceasefire.

In August, the Sudanese military opted out of US-brokered negotiations in Switzerland and an African Union-led mediation has also stalled.

“The deadlock in peaceful channels, whether regionally or internationally, is exacerbating the violence,“ said Mahmud Zakaria, a professor of political science at Cairo University’s Faculty of African Postgraduate Studies.

Since October, the RSF escalated its attacks in Al-Jazira state, south of Khartoum, following what the military said was the defection of one of its commanders to the army.

Before the war, Al-Jazira was known as Sudan’s breadbasket, hosting Africa’s largest agricultural project, yielding 65 percent of the country’s cotton, according to Zakaria.

Proxy war?

Some areas have been scarred by conflict before.

Darfur saw a major war two decades ago, during which the then-government’s allies in the Janjaweed militia faced accusations of ethnic cleansing and genocide.

With roots in the Janjaweed, the RSF became a force in its own right in 2013.

Sudan’s conflict has increasingly drawn in regional powers, prompting the United States to urge all countries to stop arming rival generals.

Former Egyptian deputy foreign minister for African affairs Ali el-Hefny said progress will require global willpower.

Instead, foreign powers are “fuelling the violence, delaying Sudan’s return to stability”, he said.

The army has accused the United Arab Emirates of backing the RSF -- a charge it strongly denies.

In December, UN experts monitoring an arms embargo on Darfur described as “credible” allegations Abu Dhabi had funnelled weapons to Daglo’s forces on cargo planes.

The RSF has in turn alleged Egyptian support for the army, which Cairo has also denied.

Army chief Burhan has historically been close to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who pledged his “continued support” earlier this month.

KUALA LUMPUR: A mother and her friend were sentenced to three years in prison by the Sessions Court today for confining a young boy in a cat cage in February.

Judge Siti Shakirah Mohtarudin imposed the sentence on the 20-year-old fast food worker, who is also the victim’s mother, and 35-year-old housewife Adibah Mohd Zaini after they pleaded guilty to the charges.

The court ordered the prison sentences to begin immediately, placed them under a five-year good behaviour bond without surety, and required them to complete 240 hours of community service within six months of completing their sentences.

The duo were accused of abusing the three-and-a-half-year-old boy by locking him in a cat cage, which could cause both physical and emotional harm, at an apartment in Taman Danau Desa, Brickfields, at 8.16 pm on Feb 10.

They were charged under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, which carries a maximum penalty of RM50,000 in fine, up to 20 years in prison, or both upon conviction.

The victim’s mother was also sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to another charge under the same Act and section, of abusing her son by wrapping him in adhesive tape at the same location at 3.58 pm on Feb 21.

Judge Siti Shakirah ordered both sentences to run concurrently.

Deputy public prosecutor Nidzuwan Abd Latip urged the court to impose a deterrent sentence, emphasising that as the victim’s mother, she had a duty to protect her child from harm.

“The court should take into account the evidence, especially the photos of the child confined in a cat cage, which is clearly not meant for human use,“ he stated.

The mother, unrepresented, pleaded for a lighter sentence, expressing deep regret for her actions. Similarly, Adibah, also without legal representation, requested a reduced sentence on the basis she had to care for her two young children, aged one and eleven.

“I deeply regret my actions. Being in detention has made me realise my mistake, and I promise I will never repeat this,“ said Adibah, tearfully.

On Monday, Bernama reported that the victim’s mother, Adibah, and another accomplice Nor Azlin Fatin Najihah Lokman, 25, were each sentenced to 14 days in prison and fined RM10,000 by the Sessions Court after pleading guilty to kicking the boy.

TAWAU: A total of 227 illegal Indonesian immigrants who were held at the Immigration Detention Centres in Kota Kinabalu and Papar were deported via Tawau Port to Nunukan Port, Tunon Taka Terminal, Indonesia yesterday.

Sabah Immigration Department director, Datuk Sh Sitti Saleha Habib Yussof said that the deportation process involved detainees aged between two and 82, comprising 107 men, 71 women, and 49 children, who travelled on the Purnama Express and Labuan Express ferries.

“This is the 19th series of deportation programmes for unauthorised immigrants by sea for the year 2024. They were detained for various offences under the Immigration Act 1959/1963 and Immigration Regulations 1963,” she said in a statement today.

She added that the deportation programme was carried out in collaboration with the Consulate General of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu and the Indonesian Consulate in Tawau.

SHAH ALAM: A total of 387 cases of child abuse were recorded by the Selangor police from January to October, said state police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan.

He said that of the total, 139 victims were aged between 0 and 1 year, 96 were between two and five years old, while the and remaining victims were aged up to 18 years.

“Childcare providers were the main perpetrators of these crimes, followed by biological parents, teachers and stepparents,“ he said.

He made these comments to the press after officiating the second Child Interview Centre (CIC) under the Sexual, Abuse and Child Investigation Division (D11) of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Selangor police headquarters in Seksyen 11 police station today.

Hussein said police investigations found that most child abuse cases were caused by negligence, such as leaving babies or young children alone, which posed risks to the victims and led to neglect.

He also noted that there had been a trend of increasing reports of child abuse cases, partly due to growing awareness of violence against children among the public and various organisations.

“Some people are now coming forward and bravely making reports, thanks to numerous awareness programmes and initiatives by the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) in the community to provide information,“ he said.

Regarding the second CIC, Hussein said that RM180,000 had been allocated to refurbish an existing premises at the Seksyen 11 Police Station for this purpose.

He said the establishment of the second CIC, which has been operational since March 5, was in response to the increasing number of child-related cases that require interviews each year, with an average of 400 to 500 cases annually.

“The establishment of this CIC takes into account the rising number of cases, with 875 children already interviewed this year alone, involving various cases such as abuse, neglect and sexual offences.

“Given current needs, we are also planning to expand this service. Both CIC facilities are currently located in Shah Alam, so there is a need to extend them to Kuala Selangor, Sabak Bernam, Hulu Selangor or the southern part of the state,“ he said.

Hussein also said that the first CIC, established in 2014 and located in Seksyen 7, serves the police districts (IPD) of South Klang, North Klang, Gombak, Shah Alam, Hulu Selangor, Kuala Selangor, Kajang and KLIA.

“The second CIC caters to the IPDs of Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Sabak Bernam, Kuala Langat, Sungai Buloh, Sepang, Serdang and Ampang Jaya,“ he added, noting that the centre conducts interviews with children under the age of 16, as referred by investigating officers from the 16 IPDs.

KUALA LUMPUR: The man who allegedly murdered a woman believed to be his mother and stuffed her body in a freezer about three years ago at a house in Taman OUG, Jalan Klang Lama here has been remanded for seven days starting today.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Rusdi Mohd Isa said the 53-year-old unemployed suspect will be remanded until Nov 19.

He said the suspect has no prior criminal record, and the police are still awaiting a health report from the hospital as well as the autopsy report on the victim’s body.

“The suspect himself contacted the police to surrender, and his actions are still under investigation,” he said in a statement today.

At about 8.45 am yesterday, police were alerted about the discovery of a woman’s body at a house in Taman OUG, leading to the arrest of the suspect.

The victim’s body was sent to the University Malaya Medical Centre for a post-mortem and the case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code.

GEORGE TOWN: Three local men, active in firearms smuggling, house break-ins, and luxury vehicle thefts that resulted in losses exceeding RM4 million, were shot dead during a shootout at Jalan Changkat-Pulau Burung, Nibong Tebal, earlier today.

Penang police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad said that at 5.30 am, a team from the Penang Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) and Seberang Perai Selatan (SPS) district police were conducting a crime prevention operation when they noticed two suspicious vehicles in the area.

“The police approached the two vehicles, a Honda Accord and a Perodua Myvi, which were acting suspiciously. Upon identifying themselves as police officers, the suspects suddenly fired several shots at our vehicles.

“The police team then returned fire in self-defence, and the three men, aged between 30 and 42, were found dead at the scene,“ he said in a press conference at the Penang Police Headquarters today.

He added that a search at the scene revealed a semi-automatic pistol, a revolver, a box of Master bullets containing 50 rounds of 9mm Luger A USA ammunition, a box of 9mm Luger D62 ammunition containing 44 rounds, two machetes, a crowbar, a sledgehammer, and various other tools used in vehicle theft.

Hamzah said checks revealed that the Honda Accord used by the suspects was a stolen vehicle, which had been reported missing in Seri Kembangan, Selangor.

He added that during the incident, the suspects were believed to be on their way to commit a robbery at a location they had already identified, which was not far from the site of the shootout.

“Initial investigations found that the three men were actively involved in luxury vehicle and 4x4 vehicle thefts, as well as house break-ins across the state since the start of this year.

“Their modus operandi was to target luxury homes, break in, and steal valuables, while the stolen vehicles would be smuggled into neighbouring countries and sold,“ he said, adding that the firearms used by the suspects were also smuggled from abroad.

He explained that none of the suspects had regular employment. The first suspect, aged 42, who was the gang leader, had 35 prior criminal offences and eight drug-related convictions; the second suspect had six previous drug-related offences, while the third suspect had no identification, and all three were believed to be criminal associates.

“With the elimination of these three criminals, police believe they have successfully solved 33 cases of vehicle theft, robbery, and house break-ins that have occurred in Penang since the beginning of this year,“ he said.

KOTA BHARU: Police have confirmed that the whistleblower who sent an open letter to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong regarding allegations of corruption in Sabah has received death threats.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain said the case is being investigated by the Bukit Aman Classified Crime Investigation Unit under Section 507 of the Penal Code, which addresses criminal intimidation through anonymous communication.

The 36-year-old male informant received a threatening call via WhatsApp from an unknown number.

“During the call, the suspect, believed to be a local man, threatened the informant in Mandarin, claiming to be from a hitman group and demanding the informant stay silent.

“The suspect warned that if the informant did not comply, he would be killed within 24 hours and called it a final warning,” Razarudin told Bernama today.

Razarudin said the suspect also sent two images, one of a pistol with ammunition and another showing a person shot in the street.

The informant expressed deep fear for his own safety and that of his family, he said.

“After receiving the WhatsApp message, the informant reported the incident and blocked the number. Since then, no further threats have been made,” Razarudin said, adding that the informant initially suspected that the phone number might belong to a scammer or was dialed incorrectly.

He said further checks revealed that the phone number was no longer in service and had no registered owner.

Razarudin added no other reports had been filed regarding this number, and the investigation returned no relevant records.

SIBU: An elderly man lost RM136,000 after being duped in an online business transaction scam, said Sibu District police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili.

He said the victim, in his 60s and unemployed, fell victim when he clicked on a link on Facebook on Oct 9 and was taken to an e-commerce platform which used the WhatsApp application.

“The victim was offered a business opportunity selling branded cosmetics items online exclusively, on the condition that he provides the capital first to enjoy the profits.

“The victim agreed and was then told to download the ‘ask-oshop’ application for confirmation of sales and to increase the capital for the stock of sales items,“ he said in a statement today.

He said that from Oct 13 till Nov 7, the victim made 32 cash transactions into 11 bank accounts on the instruction of the suspect, purportedly to increase the stock of sales items in the app.

On Sunday (Nov 10), the suspect was told that the ‘ask-oshop’ app had been frozen and was instructed to make an additional payment of RM70,000.

“Realising that he has been cheated, the victim lodged a police report at the Commercial Crime Investigation Division of the Sibu District Police Headquarters here yesterday,” he said, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.

PUTRAJAYA: The founding couple of FashionValet Sdn Bhd, linked to the investment loss of Khazanah Nasional Bhd (Khazanah) and Permodalan Nasional Bhd (PNB), continued giving their statement to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

The vehicle carrying the couple arrived at MACC headquarters here at 2.50 pm.

Today marks the sixth day of their statements being recorded after the MACC detected several suspicious account transactions in its probe into investment losses totalling RM43.9 million.

MACC Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki was reported to have said that the commission was reviewing and investigating the cash flow received by the e-commerce business platform founders.

MACC is also reported to have frozen several of the couple’s private and company bank accounts worth about RM1.1 million through Op Favish on Nov 6.

KUALA TERENGGANU: A crane driver and two tow truck operators pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court here today to charges of abducting a man last week.

The accused, Mohd Sabri Zakarya, 42, Muhamad Hafiz Hasbullah, 35, and Hairudin Sabri Abas, 40, claimed trial after the charges were read before Magistrate Noor Mazrinie Mahmood.

According to the charge, the three men were accused of forcibly abducting a 53-year-old man with the intent to confine him secretly and unlawfully in the motorcycle parking area in front of Bank Islam at a hypermarker here at around 2 pm on Nov 7.

They were charged under Section 365 of the Penal Code read together with Section 34 of the same code, which carries a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine upon conviction.

Prosecuting officer Insp Ahmad Fitri Mohamed Kamal offered bail at RM10,000 for each accused, while lawyer Ghazali Ismail requested a lower bail amount, citing the financial circumstances of his three clients.

Ghazali noted that Mohd Sabri, who works as a crane driver, and Muhamad Hafiz and Hairudin Sabri, both tow truck operators, earn between RM2,000 to RM2,500 per month and support their respective families.

Magistrate Noor Mazrinie subsequently granted bail at RM6,000 for each accused and ordered them not to disturb or contact the victim until the case is resolved. The case was set for mention on Dec 12 for document submission.

KUALA TERENGGANU: The mother-in-law of PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, Dayang Abdullah, aged 90, died shortly after midnight today.

The sad news was shared by Abdul Hadi, who is also Marang MP, on his Facebook page today.

According to Abdul Hadi, his mother-in-law died from old age at her home in Kampung Belubur, Rusila, near Marang at around 12.20 am.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of her passing, which brings sorrow to the entire family, who was very close to her,” he said.

The remains of Allahyarhamah Dayang was laid to rest at the Kampung Rusila Muslim Cemetery after the funeral prayer at 10 am today.

KUALA LUMPUR: The PriceCatcher app will continue to be improved with data-sharing on prices through the collaboration between the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN) and two supermarket chains, Mydin and Redtick, said Minister, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.

He said that this commitment is an initiative that reflects transparency in transactions and business ethics to avoid price manipulation or profiteering at the expense of consumers.

“Previously, the price data displayed in the PriceCatcher app was entirely sourced from field price monitoring officers, which limited the coverage area and the number of premises uploaded to the app.

“...the signing of this MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) marks a pioneering effort to improve the app by enabling automated data sharing from the involved supermarkets to be displayed in the ‘Supermarket Price Sharing’ section,“ he told reporters after the MoU signing ceremony on price data sharing in Subang Jaya today.

Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd, managing director Datuk Dr Ameer Ali Mydin, and KPDN secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohd Sayuthi Bakar were also present.

Armizan said that this collaboration will serve as a benchmark for expanding the data-sharing initiative to other supermarkets and premises.

According to Armizan, the PriceCatcher app previously displayed price information for 480 consumer goods, with daily updates for 186 items, weekly updates for 220 items, and monthly updates for 74 items.

“Up until Nov 7, 459,998 users nationwide uploaded the app, however, the active usage rate is 10,00 per week.

“We are taking an additional approach to add more information in the app without adding more price monitoring officers by adopting a self-reporting system or data sharing from retail sector players,“ he said, adding that the app serves as a reference for users and fosters the habit of checking prices of items before buying.

ALOR SETAR: An officer of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) was fined RM25,000 after pleading guilty at the Sessions Court here today to five charges of accepting bribes amounting to RM2,300 two years ago.

Judge N. Priscilla Hemamalini imposed a fine of RM5,000 for each charge faced by Muhamad Abdul Hadi Abdullah, 35 and the court ordered the accused to be jailed for five months for each charge if he failed to pay the fine.

According to all the charges, the accused, who holds the rank of Senior Maritime Officer at the MMEA Kedah and Perlis Headquarters, received money amounting to RM2,300 with no reply from the owner of LGH Maju Trading Company, Lim Kian Chong, who knew that he had an official working relationship with the individual.

The money was received by the accused through five money transfers from the Maybank account of a middleman, a woman, which was then deposited into the accused’s RHB Bank account and all the offences were committed at RHB Bank Bhd Langkawi Island Branch on Jan 2, April 10, May 11, July 7 and Oct 8, 2022.

The charge was filed under Section 165 of the Penal Code (Act 574) which carries a jail term of up to two years or a fine or both.

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) officers Abd Muntaqim Abdul Aziz and Mohd Syahzada Azad Sanusi led the prosecution while the accused was not represented.

KUALA LUMPUR: The late Tun Daim Zainuddin made numerous contributions to the country, especially during the financial crisis in the 1980s, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.

He said as Finance Minister at the time, Daim successfully steered Malaysia back onto a stable economic path.

“At that time, I was still young and unaware of politics, but we cannot deny that during the 1980s and the ‘Asian Financial Crisis’, the late Daim, as Finance Minister, played a vital role in helping the government and his efforts contributed to Malaysia’s recovery,” he said after performing the funeral prayers for Daim at the Federal Territory Mosque here today.

Daim served as Finance Minister from 1984 to 1991, and again from 1999 to 2001.

Fahmi, who is also Lembah Pantai MP, expressed his gratitude to Daim, recalling how he had come forward to offer support during his campaign in the 14th General Election in 2018.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob expressed his condolences to Daim’s family, acknowledging the loss of a significant figure who had made numerous contributions to the country.

“The loss is not only felt by his family and friends but by the nation. We pray that his soul is blessed and placed among the righteous,” said the Bera MP.

Earlier, the vehicle carrying Daim’s remains arrived at the Federal Territory Mosque at 3.43 pm for the funeral prayers before being taken to the Raudhatul Sakinah Cemetery at Bukit Kiara 1 at 4.48 pm for burial.

Also present were former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Opposition Leader and Larut MP Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin and former Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir.

Daim, whose full name is Che Abdul Daim Zainuddin, 86, passed away at 8.21 am today at Assunta Hospital in Petaling Jaya, where he was receiving treatment.

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PETALING JAYA: TM Global, the wholesale business arm of Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM), will expand its Klang Valley Data Centre (KVDC) in Cyberjaya and Iskandar Puteri Data Centre (IPDC) in Johor, addressing the growing demand for domestic and international data hosting services.

This is the next phase in TM’s strategic roadmap to grow its infrastructure ecosystem and position Malaysia as a preferred digital hub in Southeast Asia, aligning with its aspiration to become a digital powerhouse by 2030.

These expansions and TM’s partnership with Nxera to develop a hyperconnected, artificial intelligence-ready data centre, lays the foundation for digital services such as cloud, advanced analytics, AI and the Internet of Things.

Scheduled to begin commercial operations in 2025, the second phase of both KVDC and IPDC will deliver a combined IT load of about 20MW. The expansion will meet Uptime Institute’s Tier-III standards, and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Rating for long-term sustainability, a globally recognised green building certification.

TM Global executive vice-president Khairul Liza Ibrahim said, “KVDC and IPDC are integral infrastructures in Malaysia’s digital ecosystem, serving as international gateways and interconnected points to support 5G networks. This second phase of our data centre expansion will feature sustainable designs, boosting our capacity to support hyperscalers,

OTT players, cloud and next generation AI providers, as well as enterprises.”

TM Global’s data centres are complemented by seven regional Edge Facilities located throughout the country. These support high-performance computing and co-location services to bring content closer to end-users with minimal latency.

“We have enhanced our data hosting services with a recent acquisition of the Facilities-Based Operator licence in Singapore, allowing us to provide seamless, secure data centre-to-data centre connectivity through our extensive domestic fibre optics network and international submarine cable systems. This enables us to meet the growing connectivity demands across the region, linking data centres from Thailand to Malaysia, Singapore, and Batam in Indonesia,” Khairul Liza said.

TM Global offers a comprehensive suite of platform-based services, including multi-edge computing and content delivery, to elevate data hosting solutions. These services are tailored to optimise performance and efficiency, ensuring a robust and reliable data-driven network for customers. Leveraging its extensive network infrastructure, TM Global equips carriers, enterprises, hyperscalers, over-the-top services, and next-generation AI application providers with the tools necessary to drive innovation and seamless digital integration.

KUALA LUMPUR: AutoCount Dotcom Bhd (ADB), via its wholly-owned subsidiary Auto Count Sdn Bhd (ACSB), partnered with IAB LCCI Ltd, a collaboration formed following the Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers’ (IAB) acquisition of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) qualifications.

This agreement sets the stage for Asia’s first Cloud Accounting Certification Program, which will equip finance professionals with essential skills for the digital era.

The program will be launched on January 1, 2025, marking a significant step forward in modernising the region’s accounting landscape.

Under this collaboration, ADB will design the certification curriculum around its AutoCount Cloud Accounting software.

The syllabus will be submitted to IAB LCCI for accreditation.

IAB LCCI is regulated by the UK’s Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual), enhancing the certification’s credibility and alignment with global standards.

With LCCI’s extensive reach across Asia, the certification will be accessible through its network of educational centres and partner institutions, providing aspiring accountants with in-demand cloud accounting expertise.

ADB CEO Yan Tiee Choo said this collaboration with IAB LCCI allows the company to empower the next generation of accountants across Asia.

“Our goal is to provide a practical and accessible path to certification in cloud accounting, supporting not only recent SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) graduates but also those seeking to upskill in a fast-changing industry.

“Together, we are paving the way for a more adaptable, technology-driven accounting workforce across the region,“ he said.

Bursa Malaysia-listed ADB is a leading provider of accounting and business software solutions.

IAB Group and IAB LCCI CEO Sarah Palmer said LCCI has been a leader in offering globally recognised qualifications for over 120 years.

“Our partnership with ADB reflects our shared commitment to advancing the accounting profession by equipping future finance professionals with relevant, high-quality skills.

“By collaborating with ADB, a pioneer in cloud accounting solutions, we ensure that this certification meets the industry’s evolving needs and helps individuals succeed in a digital-first finance sector,“ she said.

The certification offers a clear advantage for students and professionals looking to expand their accounting capabilities.

By learning on ADB’s cloud platform, candidates will gain hands-on experience in digital accounting practices, preparing them for careers in an increasingly automated finance landscape.

With the signing of this agreement, ADB solidifies its position as a leader in cloud accounting solutions and furthers its commitment to innovation in financial technology and education.

This partnership aligns with ADB’s vision to become Asia’s top business software provider, fostering a future-ready workforce and advancing the region’s digital transformation.

KUCHING: Ibraco Bhd’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Ibraco Ascent Sdn Bhd, completed its first delivery of mild steel cement-lined (MSCL) pipes from its new manufacturing plant at Demak Laut Industrial Park Phase III.

The inaugural delivery of MSCL pipes will be used to develop the water infrastructure within the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project.

MSCL pipes are usually used for water developments due to their resilience and reliability in corrosive conditions.

The completion of this first delivery marks the full operational readiness of Ibraco Ascent’s pipe manufacturing plant to cater to the expansion of water infrastructure in Sarawak.

Ibraco Ascent’s pipe manufacturing plant was set up to facilitate Sarawak’s Water Supply Master Plan.

The plan is designed to meet the state’s growing water infrastructure needs and focus on achieving 100% water supply coverage across Sarawak.

The Sarawak Water Supply Master Plan has outlined the development of Sarawak’s water supply for the periods until 2025, 2040, and 2070, incorporating three strategic cores: water demand, water treatment and distribution, and water quality and sufficiency for both raw and treated water.

In addition to helping meet Sarawak’s strategic water needs, Ibraco Ascent’s pipe manufacturing plant is also sustainability-oriented in tandem with the Ibraco Group’s commitment to embrace ESG across its operations and generate tangible value creation for all its stakeholders.

Currently employing 35 local staff, Ibraco Ascent plans to expand its workforce to over 60 employees by 2025, broadening its production to include pipe fittings such as bends, tees and reducers.

This growth reflects the company’s commitment to community development and local employment.

Ibraco Ascent’s manufacturing plant is also equipped with advanced technologies, including automated welding systems, hydrostatic pressure testing, and bitumen coating stations, ensuring each pipe is built to last.

The company adheres to rigorous quality control measures, employing ultrasonic thickness gauges, hydrostatic testing equipment, and radiographic testing to maintain high production standards.

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah-based infrastructure construction player Azam Jaya Bhd (AJB) aims to bid for more projects by capitalising on the state’s substantial growth in the construction industry, especially in regions where infrastructure development is much needed.

Executive director Datuk Jessica Lo Vun Che said the company plans to enhance its construction capabilities, strengthening its capacity to take on larger projects as part of its long-term strategies.

“We are committed to raising construction standards in Sabah to meet the region’s growing infrastructure demands.

“We are particularly encouraged by the federal government’s commitment to advancing development in Sabah, notably through the Budget 2025 allocations, in which Sabah received the highest development funding among the states.

“Azam Jaya welcomes the recent allocation of RM10 billion under Budget 2025 to complete the Sabah portion of the Pan-Borneo Highway, alongside the additional RM6.7 billion for development in Sabah,“ she said at the company listing on the main market of Bursa Malaysia yesterday.

This robust debut follows an IPO oversubscription of 23.00 times, reflecting strong confidence in Azam Jaya’s business operations and growth potential.

At the opening bell, Azam Jaya’s share price debuted at RM1.00, representing a premium of 28.21% over the issue price of RM0.78, with an opening volume of 5,126,000 shares.

The rose as much as 48.72% to touch its intra-day high of RM1.16 and closed at RM1.09.

“With the proceeds from our IPO totalling RM61.5 million, we are poised to accelerate our growth strategies in exciting ways.

“We are committed to enhancing our construction capabilities by expanding our fleet of machinery and equipment, ensuring we have the tools necessary to meet the demands of our expanding projects,“ Lo said.

Azam Jaya specialises in constructing large-scale road infrastructure in Sabah, including roads, highways, bridges, flyovers, and tunnels.

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, the group has a proven track record, having completed over 50 construction projects in the region.

“The listing of Azam Jaya is a testament to over 30 years of industry expertise navigating the complexities of road construction in Sabah.

“With fresh capital, we are well-positioned to accelerate our growth and seize new opportunities,“ Lo said.

On the financial front, Azam Jaya’s revenue grew from RM231.5 million in the financial year ended December 31, 2021 (FY21) to RM280.8 million in FY23, representing a 2-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.1%.

Regarding dividend policy, Azam Jaya aims to distribute at least 30% of its net profit to shareholders.

From the proceeds raised, RM8.0 million (13.0%) will be allocated to boost construction capabilities and operational efficiencies by acquiring new machinery, equipment, and technological upgrades.

RM28.4 million (46.2%) has been set aside for working capital purposes, RM20.0 million (32.5%) is earmarked for repayment of bank borrowings, and RM5.1 million (8.2%) will be used to defray listing expenses.

Inter-Pacific Securities Sdn Bhd is the principal adviser, sole underwriter and sole placement agent for the IPO exercise.

KUALA LUMPUR: Integrated palm oil milling services provider Ecoscience International Bhd (EIB), via its wholly-owned subsidiary Ecoscience Manufacturing & Engineering Sdn Bhd, has accepted a letter of award (LoA) for a RM200 million engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract from renewable energy company, Wilhelmina Energy Malaysia Sdn Bhd (WEMSB).

Under the LOA, EIB will provide comprehensive EPC services for the TG2 black pellet plant in Kuantan, Pahang.

These services will include design and engineering, sourcing and quality assurance of equipment and materials, plant infrastructure construction, and testing and start-up activities to support commissioning and ensure operational standards are met.

The specific terms and conditions of the EPC works will be outlined in a binding EPC agreement, which is expected by November 30, 2024.

The LoA was built upon the collaboration agreement (CA) with WEMSB in March 2024, aimed at transforming agricultural waste into sustainable energy, thereby reducing coal consumption and carbon emissions.

EIB managing director Wong Choi Ong expressed confidence in delivering a robust waste-to-energy solution that aligns with WEMSB’s vision for sustainable energy transformation.

“This project is a strategic fit for our expansion into environmental and energy efficiency sectors, building on our core strengths in constructing palm oil mills, supporting facilities, and equipment fabrication.

“As the largest project to be undertaken in our corporate history, we see this as a valuable opportunity to broaden our customer base, enhance our project portfolio, and strengthen our market position.

“The LoA will significantly boost our order book, providing our group with healthy earnings visibility over the next two years,“ he said.

The TG2 black pellet plant will convert oil palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) waste into TG2 black pellets – a drop-in coal replacement fuel.

TG2 black pellets are an advanced type of biofuel pellet, providing benefits over traditional biomass pellets, including enhanced grindability, water resistance, and higher energy density.

As a drop-in fuel, it is renewable and can be used in existing pulverised coal power plants without requiring significant infrastructure modifications.

EIB will continue supporting WEMSB as it expands TG2 black pellet plants across the region.

“Beyond the EPC scope for the TG2 black pellet plant, the CA signed in March 2024 also outlined the possibility of WEMSB outsourcing the plant’s operation and maintenance (O&M) to EIB.

“We are currently exploring this opportunity, and both parties will decide in due course.

“This potential arrangement, if materialise, would create a new, recurring revenue stream for us, complementing our current project-based work,“ Wong added.

WEMSB is a subsidiary of the Netherlands-based renewable energy company Maatschappij Wilhelmina NV, specialising in converting agricultural waste streams into sustainable energy using TG2 black pellets.

The EPC works are expected to commence by December 2024, with an expected project completion timeline of 24 months from the commencement date.

BATU KAWAN: US-based medical devices company Dexcom Inc has officially opened its manufacturing facility, also its first offshore manufacturing site outside the United States, in Batu Kawan, Penang.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the RM2.83 billion strategic investment will bring more than 3,000 jobs to the state, contributing to a workforce set to positively impact the lives of over three million people worldwide.

Dexcom, founded in 1999, is a global leader in continuous glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology for individuals living with diabetes.

“The establishment of this new facility highlights Dexcom’s continued commitment to take control of health through innovative CGM systems. It also reaffirms Penang’s reputation as a global hub for advanced technological industries, reinforcing its position as a preferred destination for high-quality manufacturing and innovation,” the chief minister said in his speech at the opening ceremony here today.

Chow said Penang is on the right path towards becoming the medical technology (medtech) hub of Southeast Asia by leveraging on the state’s over 50 years of industry excellence.

“Housing the largest number of medtech companies nationally and regionally, Penang remains a highly attractive location for its infrastructure availability and ecosystem that meet the needs of the medtech industry.

“For the past five years (2019-2023), Penang garnered a total of RM5.8 billion worth of investments in the scientific and measuring equipment sector, representing 45% of the nation’s total investments in this sector, involving 33 projects and generating an estimated 4,630 employment opportunities,” he said.

Dubbed the Silicon Valley of the East, Penang has the highest concentration of medical technology companies in Malaysia and Southeast Asia to date. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia Bhd is experiencing a resurgence in IPOs as 2024 draws to a close, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the local bourse.

With 44 initial public offerings to date, Bursa Malaysia has outpaced other markets in Southeast Asia, emerging as an attractive IPO destination amid a stable economic and political landscape.

According to Mohd Sedek Jantan, UOB Kay Hian Wealth Advisors’ head of investment research, several factors have contributed to this surge. “The risk of doing business in the fourth quarter has subsided as major economic and political uncertainties have passed, such as the US presidential election while Malaysia’s active role in international forums has bolstered the country’s global standing,” he told Bernama.

He reckons that Malaysia’s stable economic indicators, including positive trade figures, healthy employment rates and steady industrial production have fostered a predictable business environment that encourages IPO activity. “Political stability and a clear government policy framework further enhance investor confidence,” he said.

The surge in IPOs on Bursa Malaysia underscores the local bourse’s resilience compared to other regional markets.

Mohd Sedek noted that Malaysia has recorded 36 IPOs so far this year, raising about US$450 million in the first half alone, which accounts for 33% of Southeast Asia’s total IPO proceeds.

“This stands in contrast to a subdued IPO market across the Asia-Pacific, where proceeds have dropped by 63%, largely due to challenges in China and Hong Kong.

“Malaysia has outperformed both Indonesia and Singapore in IPO activity this year,” he pointed out, highlighting that Indonesia faces political uncertainty following its recent presidential election, while Singapore has seen a slowdown in activity due to high regulatory costs and weak investor demand.

In contrast, he said Malaysia’s IPO market benefits from a stable macroeconomic backdrop, business-friendly regulations, and the supportive Madani Economy Framework.

Mohd Sedek said the growth in IPOs reflects optimism in key Malaysian sectors, with recent listings from the construction, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.

He said in the construction sector, which expanded by 22.9% in the third quarter, private and public investments in residential, non-residential, and large-scale infrastructure projects are expected to drive further growth. “Key government initiatives, such as RM9 billion for private finance initiatives and RM25.5 billion from government-linked investment companies are expected to sustain this momentum,” he added.

In the manufacturing sector, Malaysia’s transformation under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 aims to drive growth in high-value, technology-driven industries. “The government’s focus on digitalisation, green technology, and advanced manufacturing techniques is expected to attract further investments, solidifying Malaysia’s position as a competitive manufacturing hub in Asean,” he said.

Malaysia’s healthcare sector is also expanding due to demographic shifts and rising health awareness. The integration of technology, such as telemedicine and digital health solutions, is anticipated to boost the sector’s growth by improving care accessibility and efficiency. “This trend, coupled with government support for medical tourism, positions Malaysia as a key player in the healthcare industry in the region,” Mohd Sedek said.

Bursa Malaysia CEO Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift expressed satisfaction with the IPO momentum, noting that three Main Market IPOs were listed this week alone.

“This surge reflects a thriving capital market with strong regulatory support and a diverse investor pool. Malaysia has experienced a bull run, making us the Asean exchange with the highest number of IPOs to date this year,” he said.

Echoing this sentiment, the exchange regulator’s chairman Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar highlighted the significance of Monday’s listings, which took place on the auspicious date of 11.11. (Nov 11)

“Both companies chose that date for its auspicious nature, marking a rare occasion of two listings on the same day. The last time Bursa hosted two listings on a single day was in November 2017, following the demerger of Sime Darby Group, which saw both Sime Darby Plantation Bhd and Sime Darby Property Bhd debut together,” he said.

Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid noted that the strong IPO pipeline signals positive prospects for the Malaysian economy, as stable policies and a clear path towards becoming a high-income nation attract investor interest.

“Malaysia’s equities are undervalued, offering upside potential. The economic and policy stability enhances investor confidence, while companies’ growth trajectories inspire optimism for the market’s future,” he said.

Mohd Afzanizam said that as Bursa Malaysia continues to attract IPOs, he expects the exchange’s momentum to inspire small and medium enterprises to pursue similar growth opportunities. “The record-setting IPO activity underscores Malaysia’s resilience and strong capital market position in Asean, providing a positive outlook for 2025,” he added. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: As the takaful industry contends with escalating medical inflation and the rising costs of healthcare, the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) has called for increased government and private sector collaboration to ensure affordable, accessible protection options for all Malaysians.

MTA CEO Mohd Radzuan Mohamed envisions takaful becoming a leading option for Malaysians seeking protection.

With only 60% of the population currently insured or covered by takaful, he sees untapped potential among the remaining 40%, primarily in underserved and unserved communities.

“Our goal is to make takaful an accessible option, particularly for groups like the BM40 (top 20% of B40 and bottom 40% M40), who often do not receive enough attention from traditional agents,” he told SunBiz at the recent launch of Hijrah27.

Radzuan said the takaful sector has struggled to expand its market share, currently at about 20% after four decades.

In response, he said, they are considering how digital transformation, distribution enhancements and technology can address these challenges.

“Malaysia’s transformation plan and recent initiatives, like the financial sector blueprint, outline steps to close this gap by focusing on underserved communities, leveraging financial literacy campaigns, and engaging technology to make takaful accessible,” he added.

Additionally, he said co-payments, a shared cost model between the insurer and the insured, is seen as a potential solution to rising premiums fuelled by medical inflation.

“Collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Bank Negara Malaysia, takaful providers aim to develop cost-sharing models that help balance affordability and coverage. With co-payments, premiums could become more manageable, helping to mitigate the effects of medical inflation and making Takaful accessible for more people.”
While the adoption of co-payments is currently optional, Radzuan said, making it mandatory could have far-reaching implications on the takaful industry. “A balanced co-payment structure can be beneficial, but affordability must remain a priority to avoid defeating the purpose of protection,” he emphasised.

Looking forward, Radzuan said the association is exploring new technology-driven initiatives, such as the Hijrah27 framework, to improve customer service and operational efficiency. “Collaborations with fintech firms and the rise of AI-based solutions also show promise in elevating the industry’s standards and expanding reach,” he added.

KUALA LUMPUR: The shift towards subscription-based services is gaining traction in Malaysia, aligning with a broader global trend that redefines how consumers access products.

This model provides an appealing option for many Malaysians, particularly young families and newlyweds, who face rising living costs.

Offering high-quality appliances on a subscription basis eases the financial burden of ownership, allowing consumers to enjoy premium products without the pressure of a large upfront investment.

One notable brand offering subscription-based home appliance services is the South Korean brand, LG.

LG Malaysia product director of subscription business Hojin Jung said the introduction of the LG Rent Up Subscription in Malaysia is a natural progression of the company’s commitment to providing innovative and accessible solutions tailored to the evolving needs of modern consumers.

“LG Rent Up Subscription is inspired by our success with subscription models in South Korea, where we saw significant growth, driven by increasing demand for convenience and affordability.

“Recognising similar trends here, we noticed a growing interest in flexible ownership models in Malaysia, spurred by the need for more cost-effective solutions amidst rising living expenses and fuelled by shifting consumer preferences.

“Since its launch in March 2024, the market response has been encouraging. We have seen growing inquiries from customers who have signed up for our water purifier subscription model and are now exploring subscriptions for other high-demand appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and TVs.

“This shift highlights a changing mindset in how Malaysians approach home appliance ownership – especially among younger, urban consumers who prioritise access over ownership, seeking premium products without the upfront financial commitment,” Hojin told SunBiz.

He said urbanisation and the desire for more sustainable, convenience-focused living have made subscription services an attractive option.

“By offering top-tier technology on a subscription basis, we make high-end living more accessible while emphasising affordability and environmental responsibility. LG’s Rent Up Subscription model meets Malaysians’ evolving needs, allowing them to enjoy premium technology without the burden of ownership,” he said.

Hojin said the subscription model is gaining popularity among young Malaysians, especially urban professionals and families facing high living costs and limited space.

This trend, he said, reflects a growing shift toward a ‘sharing economy,‘ where access to energy-efficient appliances without the financial strain of ownership is valued.

LG Rent Up Subscription’s launch saw a strong uptake in Kuala Lumpur and major cities, where 40% of tech-savvy millennials prefer renting to stay updated with technology affordably.

Elaborating on the model further, Hojin said that although subscription services share similarities across markets, the Malaysian context has distinct differences.

“In South Korea, for example, the rental model for water purifiers is well-established, with over 70% market penetration. Malaysia, meanwhile, is still in its early phase, but consumer awareness is rising quickly. Moreover, this trend is not isolated to Malaysia. LG is actively preparing to introduce the subscription model in other markets, including Taiwan and Thailand, by year-end.”

Touching on the vision for LG Rent Up in Malaysia, Hojin said the LG Rent Up Subscription is just the beginning of a transformative journey in how it engages with consumers in Malaysia.

“As we look ahead, we plan to expand our subscription offerings to include a wider array of smart home appliances and electronics, reflecting the growing demand for connected living solutions.

“Our vision for LG Rent Up Subscription is to enhance the customer experience by offering seamless integration with our LG ThinQ technology, which already empowers our appliances to be more intuitive and user-friendly. This will allow our customers to enjoy a smart, responsive lifestyle, further elevating the convenience and efficiency of their homes,” he explained.

Hojin said that as the subscription economy continues to evolve, particularly among tech-savvy and environmentally conscious consumers, LG Rent Up Subscription aims to play a pivotal role in making premium technology more accessible.

“Our ultimate goal is to foster a circular economy model in which subscribing to high-quality appliances reduces the financial burden on consumers and contributes to sustainability by extending product lifecycles and minimising waste.

“The more we enhance our subscription model, the more committed we are to making innovative technology more attainable. We ultimately aim to enrich the lives of our customers while promoting responsible consumption and environmental stewardship,” Hojin said.

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to Egypt has bolstered Malaysia-Egypt bilateral relations, unlocking RM4.8 billion (US$1.1 billion) in potential export opportunities for Malaysia, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

MITI stated that this export potential was largely generated through a roundtable meeting attended by 60 industry and business leaders from 47 Egyptian firms and key business associations, as well as 40 representatives from 20 Malaysian companies.

“During the session, productive discussions between Malaysian and Egyptian companies identified export potential worth RM4.8 billion (US$1.1 billion), particularly in high-value sectors such as automotive, chemicals, oleochemicals and renewable energy,” MITI said in a statement.

Egyptian companies also expressed interest in investment opportunities in Malaysia, particularly in medical devices and pharmaceuticals, MITI added.

The official visit took place from Nov 10-12, 2024.

In a bilateral meeting during the visit, MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Egypt’s Minister of Investment and International Trade Hassan El Khatib agreed to reactivate the Malaysia-Egypt Joint Trade and Investment Committee (JTIC).

Malaysia will host the second JTIC Meeting in early 2025, focusing on collaboration in the semiconductor sector, renewable energy, the halal industry and digital transformation.

The two ministers further agreed that Malaysia’s Investment Development Board (MIDA) and Egypt’s General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) should sign a memorandum of understanding to enhance bilateral investment relations.

To support Malaysian exporters’ access to North African and Arab markets, MITI noted that Malaysia’s trade office in Cairo, managed by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), was upgraded in January 2024, offering improved market access and export support services.

Meanwhile, national carmaker Proton has expanded into the Egyptian market with a local assembly plant.

Assembly activities began with the first delivery of Proton’s completely knocked down (CKD) vehicles in September 2024, and sales are expected to start in January 2025, with a target of 16,000 units for the period 2024–2026, MITI reported.

Bilateral trade between Malaysia and Egypt from January to September 2024 rose 21.4% year-on-year to RM3.0 billion (US$648 million), compared to RM2.4 billion (US$545.5 million) in the same period last year.

Egypt was Malaysia’s fifth-largest trading partner in Africa in 2023.

Tengku Zafrul said MITI is confident this bilateral relationship will continue to grow, positively impacting the economy and supporting the objectives of the New Malaysian Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) by 2030.

“MITI and its agencies will take prompt follow-up action to ensure that all agreed initiatives are implemented efficiently,” he added.

KUALA LUMPUR: A group of planters and stakeholders in the East West One Group (EWOG) schemes urgently calls on Pacific Trustees Bhd (PTB) to release the funds necessary for the company’s approved rehabilitation and restructuring (R&R) exercise.

The majority of EWOG’s investors, represented by Thirunavukarasu Illamurugan, Yong Chin Koi, and Mahadevan Kathirgamathamby, are concerned that PTB’s continued withholding of these funds could further damage the company’s financial health, potentially leading to irreversible losses.

To recap, EWOG obtained planters’ approval of the company’s R&R exercise across all three schemes: East West One Planter’s Scheme (EWOP), East West Horizon Planter’s Scheme, and East-West Planter Scheme 1.

EWOG, in a statement, said the past few years have seen significant challenges that have severely impacted plantation operations, including the global Covid-19 pandemic, La Niña weather phenomena, industry-wide labour shortages, land disputes with landowners, and repeated injunctions that prevented timely convening of planters’ meetings from addressing these issues.

These cumulative challenges have compounded the company’s cash flow problems, resulting in an inability to meet payment obligations.

According to a statement by EWOG, despite the overwhelming support for the R&R plan from planters and stakeholders at the August 12 Planters’ Meeting, critical rehabilitation work on EWOG’s plantation assets remains stalled due to this delay.

For over a year, the plantation palms have relied solely on natural soil fertility, with no structured fertilisation or agronomic practices.

Prompt initiation of the R&R program is essential to restoring the plantation’s productivity.

This program leverages enhanced agronomic practices and inputs to increase fresh fruit bunch (FFB) production.

With crude palm oil (CPO) prices currently above RM4,000 per ton and projected to hold through 2025, the company has a unique window to capitalise on these favourable market conditions.

Proceeds from FFB sales could also partially offset ongoing rehabilitation costs, creating a sustainable pathway to recovery.

“Every day of delay further impacts our ability to restore the plantation and diminishes potential returns for all investors,” said Thirunavukarasu in the statement.

“These funds, specifically held in trust for the plantation’s rehabilitation, need to be released without further delay,“ he said in the statement.

According to a recent court filing by East West Horizon Plantation Bhd, the management continues to face challenges due to PTB’s reluctance to finalise necessary trust deeds despite ongoing efforts from EWOG’s management and legal team.

This impasse prevents the release of funds crucial for the R&R efforts, posing increased risks to the plantation assets and investor returns.

The investors’ representatives stressed that “a swift resolution is essential to launch the rehabilitation efforts and generate returns for all stakeholders.”

“It is time to move past the standstill and allow the EWOG group to implement the R&R plan for the benefit of all involved.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s cross-border renewable energy auction for Singapore’s energy importer, under Energy Exchange Malaysia (ENEGEM), will begin by year-end, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said.

He explained that, through efforts to integrate regional power grids, the country aims to strengthen energy security across ASEAN member states.

“Further to the regional integrated grid, it can also serve as an economic catalyst in fostering regional cooperation through cross-border renewable energy trade.

“By sharing excess energy, the country can reduce reliance on fossil fuels while building an integrated ASEAN energy infrastructure,” he said in his opening address at the 2nd Sustainability Environment Asia (SEA) 2024.

Fadillah, who is also the Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) Minister, confirmed that coal-fired generation will be gradually phased out, with no new coal power plants to be established.

He cited the International Energy Agency’s clear stance that reducing coal dependency is crucial to limiting global warming and stressed Malaysia’s commitment to this objective.

“We will continue to enhance grid flexibility by investing in and developing smart grids, digitising the power system, and expanding energy storage systems.

“By 2035, we aim to increase grid flexibility by 20%, enabling greater integration of renewable energy sources,” he added.

Under the National Energy Transition Roadmap, the government aims to raise renewable energy’s contribution to Malaysia’s installed power capacity to 70% by 2050, up from the current 28%.

Meanwhile, he outlined plans to restructure Malaysia’s water services over the next decade in collaboration with the National Water Services Commission (SPAN) and the Malaysian Water Association.

“As of 2023, 97.1% of urban and rural areas had access to water supply, while sewerage services covered 86.9% of major cities.

“Malaysia aims for 98% rural clean water coverage and a 31% non-revenue water rate by 2025 through Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM),” he said.

Malaysia remains committed to fostering a healthy environment, driving economic prosperity, and improving the quality of life for its people and future generations.

As the country strives toward its net zero carbon goal by 2050, it is vital to capitalise on every opportunity to navigate a sustainable transformation and embrace a circular economy.

“I invite businesses to partner with the government and explore all options for collaboration,” he added.

PETALING JAYA: The latest AHK World Business Outlook Fall 2024 Survey conducted among German companies in Malaysia reveals an optimistic forecast for 2025, with positive sentiment about both current conditions and prospects.

The survey highlights key insights reflecting the resilience and growth expectations of German businesses operating in Malaysia.

When asked to assess the current performance of their company, 92% of German businesses in Malaysia report conditions as “good or satisfactory”, which marks a significant increase of 10% compared to the same period last year.

Strong economic development and confidence among German businesses in Malaysia are expected to continue into next year, with 97% of respondents describing the outlook for 2025 as “favourable or stable”.

While Malaysia has always been recognised for its strong economic foundation, this year’s survey results demonstrate a significant boost in confidence, surpassing expectations from last year’s outlook and highlighting the continued resilience of Malaysia’s economy.

Reflecting this confidence, more than 63% of companies expect positive business development over the next 12 months, while 35% anticipate the current stability will be maintained. Only 1.8% predict a decline in performance, showcasing a predominantly positive outlook for the year ahead.

Additionally, four in 10 companies intend to increase investments in the coming year, suggesting a commitment to further growth within the business community.

Employment plans also appear to be promising, with almost half of the German companies in Malaysia indicating plans to ramp up hiring. An equal percentage (47%) intend to retain their current workforce, emphasising a dual approach to growth and stability in human resources.

While the survey paints a generally encouraging outlook for businesses in Malaysia, respondents identified several challenges that could potentially impact their economic development in the coming years.

Survey participants view demand, economic policy conditions, and lack of skilled workers as potential challenges. These insights underscore the need for ongoing vigilance and strategic planning as companies navigate both opportunities and uncertainties in a highly competitive and volatile global market.

Overall, the findings of the survey illustrate a strong confidence among companies in Malaysia, highlighting a positive trajectory for business development and economic growth in the coming year.

Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC) executive director Jan Noether said, “The results of the AHK World Business Outlook Fall 2024 Survey align perfectly with our expectations for the future of German business in Malaysia. The strong sentiment and optimism reflected in the survey highlight the positive situation we are experiencing here and underscore our confidence in Malaysia’s economic stability and growth prospects. German companies are comfortable and committed to the Malaysian market, with a clear outlook for continued success and expansion in the year ahead. Moreover, Malaysia’s stable economic environment and supportive policies play a key role in stimulating further investment, reinforcing our belief in the country as a reliable and attractive hub for business growth.”

In Malaysia, the survey was conducted between Sept 23 and Oct 16, with 111 respondents from MGCC member companies, comprising mostly German companies with branches or subsidiaries in Malaysia, primarily from the manufacturing, trade, and services sectors.

The survey is part of the broader AHK World Business Outlook, a biannual global research initiative conducted by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It surveys member companies from the network of German chambers of commerce abroad (AHK), which represent more than 40,000 companies in 93 countries.

PETALING JAYA: The Cisco 2024 AI Readiness Index revealed that only 14% of organisations in Malaysia are fully prepared to deploy and leverage artificial intelligence-powered technologies, up slightly from 13% a year ago.

This underscores the challenges companies face in adopting, deploying, and fully leveraging AI. Given the rapid market evolution and the significant impact AI is anticipated to have on business operations, this readiness gap is especially critical.

The Index is based on a double-blind survey of 3,660 senior business leaders from organisations with 500 or more employees across 14 markets in Asia-Pacific, Japan, and China (APJC). These leaders are responsible for AI integration and deployment within their organisations. The AI readiness index is measured across six pillars – strategy, infrastructure, data, governance, talent, and culture.

AI has become a cornerstone for business strategy, and there is increasing urgency among companies to adopt and deploy AI technologies. In Malaysia, 98% of companies report an increased urgency to deploy AI in the past year, driven primarily by the CEO and leadership team. Additionally, companies are committing a significant amount of resources towards AI, with 55% reporting that as much as 10% to 30% of their information technology (IT) budget is being allocated to AI deployment.

Despite significant AI investments in strategic areas such as cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and data analytics and management, many companies report that returns on these investments are not meeting their expectations.

“As companies accelerate their AI journeys, it’s critical they adopt a comprehensive approach to implementation and connect the dots to link AI ambition with readiness,” said Cisco Malaysia managing director Hana Raja.

“This year's AI Readiness Index reveals that to fully leverage the potential of AI, companies need a modern digital infrastructure capable of meeting evolving power needs and network latency requirements from growing AI workloads. This must be supported with the right visibility to achieve their business objectives.”

Anupam Trehan, vice-president, people and communities APJC, at Cisco, said: “As the race to adopt AI picks up pace, talent will be a key differentiator for companies. There is already a shortage of skilled talent across various aspects of AI. This means companies will need to invest in their existing talent pool to meet the growing demand. At the same time, it is crucial that all stakeholders – the private and public sectors, educational institutions, and governments – work together to develop local talent so that the entire ecosystem can benefit from the immense potential that AI offers.”

KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah-based beverage manufacturer Life Water Bhd’s new manufacturing plant in Keningau, set to begin operations by December, is projected to increase the company’s annual production capacity to 448 million litres of drinking water, with plans to double this output by 2027.

Managing director Liaw Hen Kong said, in addition, the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Zone 8 Plant 2, planned for completion in 2027, will support the company’s transition to more advanced manufacturing processes, including relocating existing lines and expanding plastic packaging capabilities.

“These investments and expansion reflect our confidence in the market and our ambition to meet future demand. We are not just expanding capacity. We are laying the foundation for a sustainable future by integrating advanced warehousing systems and leveraging modern technologies.

“Beyond manufacturing, we are also exploring new market opportunities in Sarawak and Brunei. Our goal is to replicate our success in Sabah by bringing the same commitment to quality and customer service to new markets,” he said at Life Water’s listing on Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market today.

He said Life Water has strong logistics and distribution capabilities, with a fleet of 75 trucks, ensuring that beverages are delivered efficiently to over 3,250 retail outlets, 520 food service outlets, 150 wholesalers and 100 hotels across Sabah.

“Additionally, with distribution centres in Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Kota Kinabalu and soon in Tawau, we are well-positioned to expand our reach and serve our growing customer base.

“This strategic network supports our goal of making our products accessible to consumers everywhere,” he said.

Liaw said over the past three years, Life Water achieved a compounded annual growth rate of 17.2%, with total revenue rising from RM103.5 million in 2021 to RM166.5 million in 2024.

Similarly, Life Water’s customer base grew from 2,815 to 3,460 customers, highlighting the steady expansion of the company’s footprint in the region.

Liaw said the implementation of the sugar tax announced in Budget 2025 will not affect the carbonated beverages manufactured by Life Water.

He explained that the sugar content in Life Water’s carbonated drinks is below 5g per 100 millilitres (ml). “Our recipe (for the carbonated drinks) is below the threshold of 5g per 100 ml. So we are not affected by the sugar tax.”

Life Water opened at 77 sen in its market debut, a 12 sen or 18.5% premium from the initial public offering price (IPO) of 65 sen. It closed at 94 sen, 29 sen or 44.6% above the IPO price on volume of 233.4 million shares.

The company raised RM63.42 million through a public issuance of 97.56 million new ordinary shares, priced at RM0.65 each.

From the total proceeds, Life Water has allocated 30.0% or RM19 million to set-up an additional drinking water production line at its Sandakan Sibuga Plant 1, 18.9% or RM12.0 million for purchasing a new drinking water manufacturing line at Sandakan Sibuga Plant 2, and 19.9% or RM12.6 million will go toward setting up a second distribution centre in Sandakan.

Furthermore, 15.2% or RM9.6 million is designated for expanding the existing plastic packaging facilities in Kota Kinabalu.

The remaining proceeds of 6.6% and 9.5% or RM4.2 million and RM6 million, respectively, are allocated for working capital and to defray listing expenses.

Holding an 11% share of Malaysia’s bottled water market, the company is also putting focus on automating key manufacturing processes to boost efficiency, reduce wastage, and ensure quality consistency.

The company’s shares are classified as syariah-compliant by the Shariah Advisory Council of the Securities Commission Malaysia.

The company’s public issue portion, made available to the Malaysian public via balloting, was oversubscribed by 32.2 times.

MIDF Amanah Investment Bank Bhd is the principal adviser, underwriter and placement agent for Life Water Bhd’s IPO exercise.

Hyundai Rotem, a subsidiary of South Korea’s Hyundai Group, has announced a pioneering development for the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army: a hydrogen-powered K3 main battle tank. Set to be among the most advanced military vehicles in the world, the K3 aims to redefine future warfare by leveraging eco-friendly fuel cells, autonomous technologies, and advanced firepower.

Hyundai Rotem’s K3 project is a collaborative effort with South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development and other national research institutions, with production tentatively scheduled to begin by 2040. The shift to hydrogen marks a historic step in South Korea’s commitment to reduce reliance on traditional combustion engines in defence equipment. The K3’s hydrogen fuel cell will eventually replace the diesel engines of the ROK’s K-series tanks, beginning with hybrid prototypes that combine hydrogen and diesel power.

In an online statement, Hyundai Rotem described the K3 as “a next-generation main battle tank that surpasses all capabilities of today’s MBTs (main battle tanks), optimised for evolving battlefield demands.” Key enhancements to the K3 include autonomous driving, AI-based fire control, and a 130-mm smoothbore main gun for increased preemptive strike capabilities. Additionally, the tank will feature improved stealth capabilities, a reduced heat signature, and the deployment of slave drones to enhance reconnaissance and support combat operations.

Fuel cell technology offers multiple advantages, including quieter operation, faster acceleration, superior fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance due to fewer moving parts. With minimal heat output and sound, the tank achieves heightened stealth, making it less detectable in combat scenarios. Mobility is also improved, allowing the K3 to maneuver through steep and rugged terrains more effectively.

Designed to operate with a streamlined crew of three—a driver, commander, and gunner—the crew will be secured within a reinforced armoured capsule at the front of the tank. This layout ensures enhanced protection and operational efficiency.

The hydrogen-powered K3 demonstrates South Korea’s commitment to integrating sustainable, high-performance technologies into its military arsenal, setting a benchmark for modern warfare with cleaner and more capable military assets.

TC SUBARU SDN. BHD., the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, has announced its participation in this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur, to be held at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from 8 to 10 November 2024. In an event at APW Bangsar, Subaru’s dealers, partners, media, and fans were treated to an exclusive preview of the “Kuala Lumpur Edition” Subaru BRZ and Subaru WRX, featuring a special livery by Motorsport Playground and a limited-edition streetwear line by Pestle & Mortar Clothing (PMC).

Inspired by a cultural fusion of Japanese engineering and Malaysian heritage, the livery created by Motorsport Playground brings an artistic twist to the Subaru BRZ and WRX. The design integrates Malaysia’s iconic Songket patterns with intricate geometric shapes and rich symbolism, transforming these high-performance vehicles into vibrant symbols of tradition and modernity. The livery also features the Malaysian national flower, Bunga Raya, in place of the usual Sakura motifs, infusing the design with local pride.

The collaborative project extends beyond the vehicles, with PMC unveiling an exclusive streetwear collection that mirrors this cultural blend. Each piece in the line embodies the precision of Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary Malaysian design, offering a unique style that resonates with both motorsport fans and fashion enthusiasts.

In a further showcase of performance, Subaru took on a thrilling time attack challenge at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. The Subaru BRZ and WRX, under the expert preparation of TD Racing, completed the circuit with impressive times: the Subaru BRZ with manual transmission finished in 02:42:211, while the WRX with CVT clocked in at 02:43:472, driven by professional racer Freddie Ang.

Subaru’s presence at the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur will celebrate innovation, performance, and cultural fusion. The “Kuala Lumpur Edition” vehicles and PMC’s streetwear collection will be available for sale from 8 to 10 November 2024 at MITEC, offering fans a chance to own a piece of this unique collaboration.

GOODYEAR is proud to be the official tyre sponsor of the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024, happening from 8 – 10 November 2024 at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur. Known as the world’s premier customised car show, this event promises to showcase the latest in automotive technology, design, and more, drawing car enthusiasts from across the region.

Event Details

Date: 8 – 10 November 2024

Time: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm

Venue: MITEC, Kuala Lumpur

At the Goodyear booth, attendees can explore the latest in high-performance tyre technology and see how Goodyear is driving innovation in tyre performance and quality. This event offers automotive fans the perfect chance to engage with Goodyear and witness the exceptional standards that Goodyear tyres bring to every journey.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to connect with industry leaders and fellow car enthusiasts!