17052012

No. 5520 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) www.thesundaily.my 30 SEN FOR DELIVERY TO YOUR DOORSTEP. CALL 03-77852731 SHARIL AMIN ABDUL RAHIM/THESUN TELLING IT AS IT IS ON THURSDAY 300,000 COPIES DAILY MEMBER MAY 17 , 2012 Promotion for 24,000 teachers > 28 recommendations to reduce teachers’ workload also being implemented UALA KANGSAR: A total of 24,053 teachers are to be considered for promotion between June 1 and Dec 31. Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said the exercise involves 8,222 teachers with bachelor’s degree, and 15,831 others with diplomas. “They can check their names at the Education Ministry’s website,” he said when launching the 41st National Teacher’s Day celebration here yesterday. Muhyiddin, who is also education minister, said that in line with the government effort to improve the teaching service scheme, the minimum allocation for the time-based promotion, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak on March 8, will be maintained. Under the scheme, teachers need only complete: eight years of service to be promoted from Grade DG41 to Grade DG44; eight years to move from Grade DG44 to move to DG48; six years to be promoted from Grade DG48 to DG52; and only three years to move from Grade DG52 to DG54. Meanwhile, teachers with diplomas on Grade DGA29 need only complete eight years to be promoted to Grade DGA32; another eight years to move to DGA34; and five more years to DGA38. Muhyiddin said following Najib’s announcement, 390 teachers had been promoted to Grade DG54, DG52 (676), DG48 (3,938), DG44 (19,805), DGA38 (399), DGA34 (2,639) and DGA32 (9,519). He said the promotion for principals on Grade DG48 to DG52 and senior assistants on Grade DG44 to DG48 had also been implemented by the ministry. “So far, 854 principals have been promoted from Grade DG48 to DG52 and 4,270 senior assistants have been promoted from Grade DG44 to DG48.” Muhyiddin said the promotions, which took effect on Jan 1, 2012, involved existing principals and senior assistants, or those who have been appointed to act in these capacities on or before Dec 31, 2011. He said the promotion for 430 other principals on Grade DG48 to DG52, and 2,655 senior assistants on Grade DG44 to DG48 will be ratified in stages from June 2012 when they fulfil the requirements. “The government has allocated RM934 million to implement the promotions for Joy is written on the face of SK Assunta 1 headmistress Naimah Mohd Nasir, 51, as she receives a bouquet of roses from pupils on Teacher’s Day yesterday. Sugar can make you dumb WASHINGTON: Eating too much sugar can eat away at your brainpower, according to US scientists who published a study showing how a diet of high-fructose corn syrup sapped lab rats’ memories. Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) fed two groups of rats a solution containing high-fructose corn syrup – a common ingredient in processed foods – as drinking water for six weeks. One group of rats was supplemented with brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids in the form of flaxseed oil and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Before the sugar drinks began, the rats were enrolled in a five-day training session in a complicated maze. “After six weeks on the sweet solution, the DHA-deprived animals were slower, and their brains showed a decline in synaptic activity,” said Fernando Gomez-Pinilla, a professor of neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Those not fed DHA supplements had also developed signs of resistance to insulin. “Because insulin can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, the hormone may signal neurons to trigger reactions that disrupt learning and cause memory loss,” Gomez-Pinilla said. High-fructose corn syrup is commonly found in soda, condiments, apple sauce, baby food and other processed snacks. “Eating a high-fructose diet over the long term alters your brain’s ability to learn and remember. But adding omega-3 fatty acids to your meals can help minimise the damage.” – AFP K officers in the education service. He said the government was committed to achieving the target of having 60% of graduate teachers in primary schools and 90% in secondary schools nationwide by 2015. He said the teacher’s graduating programme is also running smoothly with 69.6% of 66,124 teachers having accepted the offer to pursue tertiary education. Meanwhile, Muhyiddin said a working committee established to see how teachers’ workload can be reduced is implementing 28 recommendations to address 14 issues that have been raised. Among measures implemented is the introduction of a single data entry system in place of multiple systems. “This system is being implemented as a pilot project in 88 schools and to be extended to all schools under the ministry by 2013,” he said. He said the ministry is also conducting a study on the placement of administrative assistants N17 in schools until June to see its impact in reducing the clerical workload of teachers. “A proposal will be submitted to the Public Service Department for the recruitment of administrative assistants N17 for schools,” he added. INSIDE Expecting a good comedy Cameron Diaz who stars in What to Expect When You’re Expecting feels she is not ready yet to have a child 20 SKP needs US$1-1.5b new jobs yearly RM13b orderbook to keep enlarged group busy for three-and-ahalf years Sunbiz page 15 02 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17, 2012 E S T A B L I S H E D 1 9 2 9 Now Open At Our New Location In Jalan Gasing Petaling Jaya!! Continuing restrictions on media > Political power still impedes freedom of expression, says CIJ BY MICHELLE CHUN AND PAULINE WONG [email protected] KUALA LUMPUR: Political parties from both sides of the divide continue to exert influence on the media and impose restrictions on freedom of expression, a report by the Centre for Independent Journalism (CIJ) revealed yesterday. In its Freedom of Expression Report 2011, the centre noted that many reforms were announced by the government but there were continuous violations of civil liberties and media freedom that seem to contradict promises of change. “Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak and his government went to great lengths in 2011 to demonstrate that the Barisan Nasional (BN) government is ready for reform. “However, events in 2011 tell a different story. The announced legal reforms do not go far enough to ensure an open and democratic Malaysia,” the report said. In a historic Malaysia Day speech on Sept 15 last year, Najib had announced the repealing of the Internal Security Act 1960 along with the Restricted Residence 1933 and Banishment Act 1959. He also promised that laws on newspaper publication and freedom of assembly would be reviewed. However, the report said several bills passed last year seemed to impose further restrictions rather than remove them. “The Peaceful Assembly Bill 2011 gives the police such far-reaching and arbitrary powers that some have said that it should be called the Restricted Assembly Bill.” The report said the government has also shown its willingness to use other repressive laws such as the Sedition Act 1948, Official Secrets Act 1972 and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, as well as exerted heavy influence on mainstream print media. When contacted, CIJ executive officer Masjaliza Hamzah said the report is an echo of the centre’s report in 2010. “It is the same old story. Nothing much has changed. Although there had been promises of reforms last year, many have still not been BERNAMAPIX carried through entirely,” she said. Masjaliza said the empty promises speak of the government’s lack of understanding and commitment to reform. The report also noted that Pakatan Rakyat had also employed practices which seem to impede media freedom. “Questions may be raised with the Selangor government’s involvement in the publication of state newspaper Selangor Times. The mentri besar’s political and press secretaries have been named as advisors to the paper and vet contents before it goes to print.” It added that the pact had also banned Umno-linked paper Utusan Malaysia from covering Penang and Kelantan assembly proceedings. “Some of the rhetoric used by Pakatan for Utusan’s ban is similar to the strong-arm tactics applied by the BN government,” it said, adding that while the pact has introduced freedom of information laws in Selangor and Penang, there is still no guarantee it would repeal all repressive press laws or unshackle the media if it gains power at federal level. ‘Umno should focus on young professionals’ KUALA LUMPUR: Umno’s three-day 66th anniversary celebrations last week received tremendous response from the younger generation, which proved Umno’s rejuvenation process is gaining pace. About 70% of the estimated 250,000 who attended were youths. According to Universiti Teknologi Mara’s Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies dean Prof Datuk Dr Ramlah Adam, the party should give room for participation to young professionals who were described as “determinants of Umno’s political strength”. He said although youth voters should not be over emphasised by Umno in its rejuvenation process, young professionals aged 45 and above are considered critical as a majority of them tend to be fence sitters or leaning towards the Opposition. “The focus should be on this group of individuals as they would be key to determining the strength of the government in the future,” he told Bernama here. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Human Ecology senior lecturer Dr Ma’rof Redzuan was of the opinion that Umno had to change its approach in order to gain respect and belief of the people, especially the younger generation. Ma’rof said the personality and quality of a leader who is clean and transparent in all endeavours is the main factor considered by the people in determining Umno’s worth, and as such, would determine the party’s continuity, especially its ability to face the upcoming 13th general election. He said if those values failed to be highlighted by Umno, the people would continue leaning towards the Opposition. – Bernama Paya Besar MP Datuk Abdul Manan Ismail (centre) and the heads of the Paya Besar Felda schemes pose with mock cheques worth RM23.9 million for Felda settlers in the constituency at a handover ceremony at the Panching Selatan Public Hall in Kuantan yesterday. The windfall of RM15,000 for each Felda settler family was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak on May 8. WINDFALL ... Najib visits New York NEW YORK: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak arrived in New York yesterday to begin a working visit aimed at strengthening and broadening Malaysia’s relations with the world’s largest economy, the United States. Najib and his wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, arrived at the Westchester County Airport here by a special aircraft at 1am yesterday (1pm in Malaysia) after a two-day working visit to the United Kingdom. They were received by Malaysian ambassador to the United States Datuk Othman Hashim. The prime minister will have a busy programme during his visit here, starting with chairing the Second Meeting of the Global Sciences and Innovation Advisory Council at the New York Academy of Sciences. Najib and Rosmah will depart for Washington DC from the Westchester County Airport tomorrow. – Bernama – E S TA B L I S H E D 1 9 2 9 – Lowest fixed prices. 91 & 93 JALAN GASING PETALING JAYA 46000 SELANGOR MALAYSIA 603-7955 0303 / 603-7955 0505 Email: [email protected] MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED For an on-line cataloque and prices, visit our website MCA suspends youth leader over Lynas BY KONG SEE HOH [email protected] www.plalstore.com Lowest Fixed Prices or your money back KUALA LUMPUR: The MCA disciplinary board has suspended the membership of Indera Mahkota division youth chief David Choi, who has been vocal about his stand against the Lynas rare earth plant in Gebeng, Pahang. Board chairman Tan Sri Michael Chen said Choi can appeal the suspension, which is for three years, reported Sin Chew Daily. He said the board had summoned Choi to defend himself against 20 complaints of indiscipline, including breaking ranks over the Lynas issue and running down Indera Mahkota division chief Datuk Pang Tsu Ming. “Despite being suspended from the party for three years, he (Choi) can file an appeal,” said Chen said on Tuesday. Earlier, news that Choi had been suspended had been making the rounds in Kuantan but the division youth chief, who is also national youth public service and complaints bureau vice-chairman, said he had not been notified of the board’s decision and did not know the source of the grapevine talk. “Someone must have been happy that action has been taken against me, and leaked the information to the press,” he said when contacted by the daily. On March 27, Choi was summoned by the board following complaints that he had slighted some party leaders and had broken ranks with the party over the Lynas issue. Choi, despite facing disciplinary action for his support for Himpunan Hijau, was seen among the crowd at the Himpunan Hijau 3.0 rally in Kuala Lumpur last month. The Indera Mahkota MCA Youth is the only party youth division which strongly opposed the controversial plant in Pahang. theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17, 2012 03 28. – Bernama SLIGHT NAME CHANGE FOR RELA BESUT: Beginning June 2.” he told reporters after lodging a police report at the George Town district police headquarters on Tuesday. 2011. 2012 Grad reports assault during Bersih rally BY BERNARD CHEAH newsdesk@thesundaily. R. 58. Mohd Danish went into coma after he was believed to have been slapped by his mother’s boyfriend while the couple was having an argument. says Dr M BY HEMANANTHANI SIVANANDAM newsdesk@thesundaily. “It is not for the Bar Council to say no. He was accompanied by his mother Rohani Othman. 2010 even though he knew that Sharifah Norliza was also involved in the meeting between Negri Sembilan RTD and driving institutes in Kota Kinabalu from July 24 to 26. on the resignation of DAP senator Tunku Abdul Aziz Tunku Ibrahim.” he said. proposed by Lim Chee Wee on behalf of the Bar Council dated May 4. CHILD ABUSE SUSPECT NABBED KUALA TERENGGANU: The main suspect in the abuse of two-year-old Mohd Danish Aiman Abdullah was arrested yesterday. for 30 days from yesterday. lodged a police report on May 10. K.0 rally on April 28. Suresh for allegedly giving false statement in the murder trial of cosmetic millionaire Datuk Sosilawati Lawiya and three others at the High Court here. He was referring to the recent comment by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz who said the government will look into reviving the Malaysian Academy of Law Bill. .29pm. “It is obvious the Bar Council has become a political party. Suresh pleaded not guilty to a charge of giving a false statement before judge Datuk Akhtar Tahir contradicting his statement to recording officer ASP Ong Seng Keong on Oct 26. I don’t even know why he joined. Two City Hall vans with 10 enforcement officers and a police patrol car were seen keeping watch over the area yesterday afternoon and as of 7pm. Deputy public prosecutor Salwa Asmary Abdul Rahim requested the postponement for her to obtain the notes of the proceeding of the murder case from the High Court. He also seeking a declaration that a motion for an EGM dated May 4 is also invalid and leads to an offence under the Sedition Act. – Bernama June date for case linked to Sosilawati murder SHAH ALAM: The sessions court here fixed June 22 for mention of a case involving farm worker U. they dragged me and even placed their feet on my face. On April 30. Matan and R. Mohd Kamal was charged under Section 165 of the Penal Code which Bar Council a ‘political party’. “Those who registered before. who rejected the government’s proposal to set up the academy. Khairul said that on May 4 at about 1.0 public assembly on April 28. which was dropped in 2002. In his statement of claim. all becoming political parties. He said the defendants failed or negligently abandoned his statutory rights when they did not send the EGM notice and motion through post to him and all other members of the Malaysian Bar.” he added.04 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. B R I E F S WATCH OVER AMBIGA’S HOUSE KUALA LUMPUR: Police and the Kuala Lumpur City Hall enforcement unit yesterday patrolled the residence of Datuk S.0 rally in Kuala Lumpur last month. “When it has something to do with the law. He is seeking an injunction that the defendants or their employees be prohibited from writing or publishing any article in relation to the May 11 EGM on the Malaysian Bar website or in any media. – Bernama Ex-Negri RTD director freed of graft charge SEREMBAN: A former Negri Sembilan Road Transport Department (RTD) director was acquitted and discharged by a sessions court yesterday of accepting a return flight ticket and accommodation from a driving institute to attend a meeting in Sabah two years ago. and was later sent to Hospital Kuala Lumpur for treatment. void and against the Legal Profession Act and leads to an offence under the Sedition Act 1948.gov. who is a member of the Malaysian Bar. The offence was allegedly committed between 9. Haresh Mahadevan and Ramzani Idris. and it is for us to say yes. Mohd Fairuz Johari. He said they could also do so online by filling the information in the space provided on the EC website.spr. by policemen from the Kuala Terengganu district headquarters while on patrol in the area. If that is going to be what the Bar Council is concerned about.” he said yesterday. He said Woon failed to issue notice and motion of EGM attached together and that they were issued more than 10 hours apart. bank officer Noorhisham Mohamad and Sosilawati’s driver. Khairul is seeking a declaration that the motion which was passed at the EGM is null. and the agency would still be known as Rela. Mohd Saufi Othman. – Bernama NOT FOR BAR TO SAY NO: NAZRI JAKARTA: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz yesterday said the Bar Council had no right to reject the proposed setting up of a law academy. Its public relations officer.” he said in a statement yesterday. He said one officer hit his chest with the hilt of a pistol. Malaysian Bar and the council’s president Lim Chee Wee and secretary Tony Woon Yeow Thong. who was among the organisers of the Bersih 3. 2010 in Sungai Udang Prison. while Mohd Kamal was represented by lawyers Faiz Fadzil. more suitable name in line with its role as a national security agency. then it should become a political party and let other organisations take up the professional side. or Internet for the purpose of publishing for the public. “I don’t know why I was roughed up. – Bernama Lawyer wants Bar EGM declared null and void KUALA LUMPUR: A lawyer has filed a suit against the Bar Council. lawyer Ahmad Kamil Abdul Karim. void and against the Legal Profession Act 1976. Woon uploaded a motion titled “Motion in relation to the events of and surrounding the Bersih 3. www. said the electoral roll will be displayed on the EC’s website. after a group of traders opened a burger stall in front of her house to express their anger over alleged financial losses suffered as a result of the rally.05pm. “From the beginning. two years ago. here. the owner of a driving institute. Mohd Khairul Azam Abdul Aziz. – Bernama Mohd Kamal (left) speaks to his lawyer after being released. but who do not have an association. PenangInsight. Empatsempurna (M) Sdn Bhd located in Lukut. Sarawanan. He was responding to a statement by council chief Lim Chee Wee. can be united under the Law Academy.my . He also told reporters that he had witnessed the alleged incident of police brutality and reported it on the webportal. Kota Kinabalu worth RM390 from Sharifah Norliza Syed Hamid. was nabbed at 2pm at a foodstall in Manir.com VOTERS WITH COMMON ADDRESSES KUALA LUMPUR: The Election Commission (EC) is displaying the electoral roll of voters who registered in groups using common addresses for verification by the voters concerned. 31. He said other police officers continued to hit him when he was brought to the carpark behind Dataran Merdeka. Kamaruddin Shamsuddin. are advised to contact or go to the nearest EC office to update their addresses.30am and noon on July 25 and 27. we’ll have the Malaysian Medical Association (MMA). then you should comment but when you go about campaigning for political parties. He said the change was slight. – Bernama LIGHT AND EASY FOR NICOL – PAGE 26 PUTRAJAYA: FORMER Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammed has accused the Bar Council of becoming a political party and supports the proposal to set up an alternative to the Malaysian Bar. Mahathir said Abdul Aziz “was not well suited for DAP”. High Court Judge Datuk Akhtar Tahir ordered former lawyer N. On April 21. Ambiga. Bukit Damansara. but did not give the right address to the EC. involving the addition of a word (pasukan) in front. at the High Court here. to enter their defence on charges of murdering Sosilawati. I never thought he was suitable in DAP. Zainulfaqar said he too made a police report as a witness to Mohd Saufi’s assault. then I think you should become a political party. 56. Kathavarayan. for example. “Because of the kicks and punches to my chest. Ikatan Relawan Rakyat Malaysia (Rela) or Malaysia People’s Volunteer Corps will get a new. Sabri Said. Sessions judge Datin Nusinah Adzmi made the decision after the prosecution failed to prove a prima facie case against Mohd Kamal Saad. He said the council has become more concerned with political issues rather than legal matters.com GEORGE TOWN: A university graduate yesterday lodged a police report alleging police brutality against him during the Bersih 3. “Next. filed the suit at the High Court registry yesterday. 26. Port Dickson. in the federal capital which later turned violent. 45. Mahathir said any professional organisation should purely focus on the profession. Mohd Kamal was charged with accepting a return flight ticket for Kuala Lumpur-Kota Kinabalu-Kuala Lumpur worth RM298 and one night’s accommodation at the Promenade Hotel. Suresh. I have difficulty breathing. Khairul is also seeking a declaration that a notice to call for EGM dated May 4 issued by the defendants is null. or both. Its director-general Datuk Mustafa Ibrahim said Rela would be known as Pasukan Ikatan Relawan Rakyat Malaysia. provides a maximum jail term of two years or fine. are serving a 20-year jail sentence at the Sungai Udang Prison in Malacca for disposing of evidence. and another farm worker. Pathmanabhan and his three farm workers. Mohd Kamal later told reporters outside the court room he hoped the decision would clear his name and change the negative public perception towards him. Manoharan said the suspect. At about 11.” said Mahathir. seeking a declaration that an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) held last Friday is null. He is also seeking costs and any other relief deemed fit by the court. T. Thilaiyalagan. then there will be a lot of confusion. Meanwhile. Woon had uploaded a notice of EGM of the Malaysian Bar. “They punched and kicked me. When I was on the ground. appeared for the prosecution. Ambiga in Jalan Setiakasih 1. to be held at 3pm at a hotel. said in his report he was assaulted by a group of between 10 and 15 police officers when he was in the vicinity of Dataran Merdeka at about 3pm.com reporter Zainulfaqar Yaacob and Penang Suaram Secretariat member Ong Jing Cheng. He said Woon’s act to publish notice and motion only on the Malaysian Bar website is an incomplete serving and not according to the law. He urged the voters concerned to help the EC to update their addresses. 2012 and matters in connection therewith”. State CID chief ACP K. upon conviction. Nazri had commented on the Bar Council’s extraordinary general meeting (EGM) last Friday which passed a resolution condemning the use of excessive force by the police during the Bersih 3. there were no traders or groups of people at the location.” said Mahathir.” he added. On Aug 10 last year. as part of its plan to create an alternative to the Malaysian Bar.0 rally on April 28. Deputy public prosecutor from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission. 21. the architects. He was alleged to have accepted the ticket and the accommodation without prejudice on July 21. and I think we should have a law academy so that those with legal background. void and against the Legal Act. 2012 05 .theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. she has been handling the matter with dignity and grace. I hope that this passion is shared by many of his fellow students. NGOs lodge police reports against Fernandez KUALA LUMPUR: Two non-governmental organisations and Rela lodged a police report against Tenaganita executive director Irene Fernandez in relation to her statement on foreign workers which they claimed had tarnished the good name of the country. the owner of the restricted-breed dog faces a maximum fine of RM2. better known as Pak Samad. a group of traders had set up burger stalls outside Ambiga’s home after claiming a loss of income amounting to RM200. Last Thursday.000th Twitter follower – student Anwaruddin Izzuddin.” he said. On May 8. We talked about Malaysia. For an amendment to be gazetted. I told him that I have a fitness regime that I apply. “She is a figure who has dedicated her life to defending human rights and for the betterment of our society . He also urged supporters of free and fair elections to take part in activities that will detect. which alleged Malaysia was not the best country for Indonesian workers.com ANWAR FAIZ/THESUN PETALING JAYA: The Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) has yet to issue any compound to the owner of the bull terrier that attacked and killed 74year old Yip Sun Wah. fight the fraud” – using the power of numbers to minimise alleged attempts at manipulating votes. who together with Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim were held accountable for allegedly losing control of the crowd. Najib said as someone who valued social media engagement as an important way to connect with the rakyat. 15.” he added. but still thinking about the people back here. During the ceremony. Council still probing bull terrier attack case BY TAN YI LIANG newsdesk@thesundaily.. was regrettable. in conjunction with the granting of the Royal Charter Award to the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies. “Bersih 2. “Civil servants should change their way of thinking in performing their daily tasks and focus their efforts to improve the delivery system with more innovative ways. through the “Jom Pantau!” (Let’s Monitor) initiative. The 25-year-old accountant may face a charge of causing death through negligence under the Penal Code. Najib writes on joy of meeting Twitter followers KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak is thousands of kilometres away from home. “Supporters can help by taking on important roles of election monitors.06 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. football and food – including how ubi kayu became a staple food during the Japanese Occupation. Najib observed that his breakfast companions had all the best traits of the upcoming generation of Malaysians. Asmawi said if found guilty. ubi kayu rebus and telur separuh masak. Thirty representatives from Ikatan Rakyat Insan Muslim Malaysia (IRIMM). IRIMM president Amir Amsaa Alla Pitchay condemned Fernandez’s statement in the Jakarta Post last week. KUALA LUMPUR: Electoral watchdog Bersih 2.” he added. dog chases. report and stop any fraud during the campaign period and on election day.” The prime minister said the “offline breakfast” was overall a “pleasurable meet-up” and that he was looking forward to engaging further with his social media friends.0 rally on April 28 which turned chaotic after an alleged attempt to break through barriers set up around Dataran Merdeka. the state Veterinary Services Department and MPSJ. Anifah said efforts to improve the system must be continuous and not merely confined to meet the criteria set in the Star Rating system – one of the mechanisms to evaluate and rate the performance of specific categories of public agencies.0 has quashed rumours of a fourth rally to demand clean and fair elections. supporters of the cause had mulled possibilities of holding its fourth installment to pressure the government into implementing electoral reforms.. Pak Samad also condemned the alleged harassment against co-chairperson Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan. online or offline. she said.000 due to the rally which saw some 80.” he said. Following the report. attended a reception hosted by heir to the British throne. The first is a campaign dubbed “Come out and vote. including during my flights! “It was encouraging to hear how important sports is to his life. “It was particularly significant for me as I hit one million Facebook ‘likes’ two days before the breakfast. in cooperation with non-governmental organisations Tindak Malaysia and Komas.com. Najib said: “He shared with me his passion for mountain biking. of which 89 were from Wisma Putra and the rest from embassies. The group has since announced its plans to organise a larger “pasar malam” protest outside Ambiga’s home on May 24 and will be reportedly submitting its application for a permit from the Kuala Lumpur City Hall. get the approval from all local authorities and receive endorsement from the state government.com No Bersih 4.000 compound to the female owner of the American bull terrier and miniature bull terrier cross-breed. “Our scope of investigation is to see if there is any wrongdoing under our bylaws. “The MPSJ is doing a thorough investigation in order to prosecute the owner for the offence under its Dog Licensing and Kennel Establishment By-Laws 2007. claiming that foreigners in the country were ill-treated. from Hartamas – at the Chawan restaurant in Bangsar over breakfast. A separate group of 15 men claiming to be army veterans had on Monday morning also staged a protest outside her residence by performing “butt exercises”.com PUTRAJAYA: Civil servants should nurture the culture of innovation and establish a creative atmosphere to be more productive. the case is still under investigation by the police. “The main goal of enforcing regulations is to provide guidance for civil servants to perform their duties responsibly. Dewan Ekonomi dan Sosial Malaysia and Rela arrived at the Dang Wangi police headquarters at 11am yesterday to make the report. MPSJ health director Dr Roslan Mohd Hussin said the fate of the bull terrier is to be decided by the Veterinary Services Department.000 protesters taking to the streets. His speech was read out by his deputy Kohilan Pillai. Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Khalid Abu Bakar had on Monday said the protest led by Malaysia Small and Medium Entrepreneurs Alliance was legal.” said coalition co-chairman and National Laureate Datuk A. especially his 500. In his latest blog posting. “with their sense of optimism and their determination to make the most of the peace and prosperity we enjoy in our country”. polling agents and counting agents. He denied reports saying MPSJ had issued a RM1.0 for now > Pak Samad: Coalition will focus on the power of votes BY ALYAA ALHADJRI [email protected]. Samad Said. 2012 Civil servants should be creative: Anifah BY HEMANANTHANI SIVANANDAM newsdesk@thesundaily. and will focus instead on two major initiatives to increase voters turnout and eliminate fraud within the system. Anifah also said civil servants should also have a sense of discipline to ensure the success of an organisation.” MPSJ chairman Datuk Asmawi Kasbi told a press conference yesterday. bites or attacks any person whether or not any injury has been caused. Najib related his pleasure of meeting his social media friends. he was grateful for the continued support and feedback. the council must consult the state legal adviser.my.000. In the face of despicable acts. Following the Bersih 3. Training sessions for volunteers are conducted nationwide by Bersih 2. “At this time. and I even do some exercises when travelling.0 calls on all registered voters to use your vote as a key tool in mitigating fraud.1Malaysia. died at the scene after being attacked by the male bull terrier in Jalan 19/5B while jogging. who lived in Jalan SS19/5E.” said Pak Samad during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall here. and asked me how I maintain a healthy lifestyle.” he wrote on his blogsite www. “We discussed all sorts of things over nasi lemak. Prince Charles. among others. one-year jail or both. MPSJ legal adviser Anita Abdul Jalil said the council is looking into strengthening its bylaws by making the necessary amendments. He said creative ideas could help improve the quality and productivity of the services provided. – Bernama . 110 civil servants from the ministry received the awards. The development and success of the public service depends on the attitude of the civil servants. and invited ideas for future initiatives to be posted either in the blog comments or on Twitter and Facebook.” said Anifah during the ministry’s Excellent Service Award 2011 presentation yesterday. Putrajaya Rela Lt-Col Mohd Sani Mohd Zin said her statement which appeared in Yahoo News in Bangladesh two days ago. The prime minister is currently on a four-day working visit to New York after concluding a visit to the United Kingdom where he. an owner is guilty of an offence if a licensed Asmawi (right) and Roslan during the press conference. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Anifah Aman said a creative atmosphere in an organisation would spark ideas and help create an environment for innovation. – Bernama Rela. Subang Jaya. besides accusing the police of abusing their power to shoot criminals. Yip.” he said. A check by theSun found under Section 15 (1) of the by-laws. Referring to Anwaruddin. It was regarding his response to the call by Perak mufti Tan Sri Harussani Zakaria for the National Fatwa Council to discuss whether it is appropriate for PAS to use the word Islam in its name. “But now he is very enthusiastic about supporting Anwar at various events organised by the opposition. but he rejected the idea. Didn’t he realise who was Anwar before this? “When Anwar was sacked in 1998. He described it as a ‘stupid behaviour’ on the part of the reporter. “The newspaper should say first that he is leaving the matter to Harussani since he is more senior in the council.com PARTI Kesejahteraan Insan Tanahair (Kita) is upset with former Information Minister Tan Sri Abdul Kadir Sheikh Fadzir who appears very determined to get close to opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. namely Jiao Zong (United Chinese School Teachers Association). Oriental Daily News reported yesterday.” the daily said. which insisted that education policy changes be discussed at the roundtable. “Thus. Their support came a day after an academician said Dong Zong faced the prospects of a split as the threats by 13 Johor Baru Chinese school committees to pull out of the Johor Dong Lian Hui. Kita upset with Abdul Kadir BY HUSNA YUSOP newsdesk@thesundaily. Kita leader Zamil Ibrahim said the party had offered Abdul Kadir membership in Kita. withdrew from the talks. Dong Zong. The two Dong Lian Hui said they are firmly behind Dong Zong and will help it explain the reasons it opted out of the roundtable talks. according to Utusan Malaysia report yesterday.” the portal reported Juanda saying. the daily said. Both the Dong Lian Hui (Chinese school committees association) of Penang and Kedah have said they supported the umbrella body’s decision not to be a party to a mechanism that “anaesthetises the Chinese”. Juanda never made a specific request for his response – through SMS exchanges with a Berita Harian reporter on Monday – to be carried in that sequence. unless Dong Zong returns to the roundtable. Juanda was disappointed that his statement has been allegedly twisted by Berita Harian. Earlier this month. The Penang and Kedah Dong Lian Hui told the daily they have received calls from Chinese school committees wanting to know more about the decision taken by Dong Zong. National Union of the Teaching Profession and SJKC School Headmasters Association since March 8. According to online news portal Malaysiakini report on Tuesday. However. saying he was no longer interested in active politics since leaving Umno in March. based on the issue and questions posed.” Zamil said. Berita Harian denies misquoting Perlis mufti BERITA HARIAN yesterday defended its reporter whom Perlis mufti Dr Juanda Jaya claimed had misquoted him in a report on Tuesday. before saying that he agrees with the call to discuss the matter within the council.com TWO affiliates of Dong Zong (United Chinese School Committees Association) have voiced their support for the Chinese education movement’s withdrawal from the roundtable talks on Chinese education. may produce a ripple effect. 2012 07 PRESS DIGEST Support for Dong Zong’s move BY KONG SEE HOH newsdesk@thesundaily. Berita Harian regrets Juanda’s action in hurling abusive words against the reporter. “In this respect. He wondered whether Abdul Kadir was hoping to be nominated for the KulimBandar baru parliamentary seat in the next general election. Hua Zong (Federation of Chinese Associations of Malaysia). the reporter has written the news by angling it according to its news value. “but no one from the two states has threatened to pull out”. Abdul Kadir was one of those in the Umno Supreme Council meeting who agreed to his sacking from cabinet and from Umno. The roundtable meetings on the eight-point plan to address issues affecting Chinese schools were held between the Education Ministry and five bodies. . Dong Zong. 2 million) lawsuit on Tuesday.08 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17.” Hollande’s second plane arrived for tense talks Hollande also named his new prime minister. “Thank you for your trust. new home. The unidentified man. with indispensable economic stimulus. Sarkozy. European Central Bank chief Mario Draghi said simply: “No comment”. Hollande opposed the speed and depth of the Ayrault’s new cabinet will likely hold its first cutbacks demanded by Berlin. and I believe that I am worthy of this mission. He will have no power to take political decisions. “This is purely a caretaker government. a 62-year-old longtime economy and France’s key ally. president of the Fifth Republic and only the “And I will tell them of our continent’s need second Socialist. favourite. filed a notice dismissing his lawsuit. It needs solidarity. outgoing first lady Carla Bruni underlining his differences with Merkel. Many are not documented by their employers and earn less than the minimum wage. – Reuters PHILIPPINES TO REGISTER UNRECORDED WORKERS MANILA: The Philippine government said on Tuesday it plans to register an estimated 17 million undocumented workers so it can better address their needs. and wants to session today after which the Socialists turn to renegotiate the eurozone fiscal pact. street vendors. At least 44% of the country’s workers are in the informal . President Karolos Papoulias. construction workers. referred to as John Doe No. only to carry Greece into the vote.” Hollande told dignitaries at his codes to France’s nuclear arsenal. – AFP their campaign to win a parliamentary majority REUTERSPIX Judge to lead Greece to fateful June 17 vote ATHENS: Greece put a senior judge in charge of an emergency government yesterday to lead it to new elections on June 17 and bankers sought to calm public fears after the president said political chaos risked causing panic and a run on deposits. Political leaders failed to form a government following an inconclusive parliamentary election on May 6.” he told Hollande then signed the notice of formal the assembled Socialists. who led him to the presidential office “Europe needs plans. 2012 Hollande vows new strategy > Promises to end debt crisis threatening eurozone PARIS: Francois Hollande was sworn in as president of France on Tuesday with a solemn vow to find a new growth-led strategy to end the crippling debt crisis threatening to unravel the eurozone. After brief ceremonies and a rainlashed walkabout. – Reuters sector in jobs such as day labourers. The man said he got the wrong date of the alleged incident after photos surfaced putting the actor in New York on the same day. elegant in a dark dress and that links a necessary reduction in public debt vertiginous heels. part-time and home-based workers. Asked if he was concerned about a Greek exit. and the two establishment parties that agreed the rescue are sinking further after an historic wipeout 10 days ago. who was tipped as of the European Union’s fiscal austerity drive. on Tuesday. Hollande ally and the head of the Socialists’ Merkel was a Sarkozy ally and the architect parliamentary bloc. exchanging kisses with Hollande’s partner “To our partners I will propose a new pact Valerie Trierweiler. A new poll confirmed what other surveys have shown: that radical leftists who reject a bailout agreed with the European Union and International Monetary Fund are poised for victory. It for a private head-to-head and to hand over the needs growth. a presidency source said.” Pikrammenos said at a meeting with the president. The interim leader is little known outside legal circles. husband and brothers in the Srebenica massacre at the start of his trial yesterday. A storm forced Hollande to turn back to in June’s legislative elections – a key test for the Paris shortly after party after Hollande’s win. However. 1. trade unionists. Chancellery in Berlin. Mladic. western Greece and studied law in Athens and Paris. The parliament that was elected on May 6 will convene today and be immediately dissolved. the leader of Europe’s biggest Jean-Marc Ayrault. takeoff amid fears his plane had been hit by The new president was welcomed to the lightning. made him suited to be the last prime minister of a political era. the Elysee Palace. that his own name. – Reuters B R I E F S MLADIC TAUNTS SURVIVOR AT START OF TRIAL THE HAGUE: Bosnian Serb general Ratko Mladic made a throat-slitting gesture to a woman who lost her son. churchmen and officials. in such an unstable world to protect not only its But the real work was to begin after values but its interests. handover of power – becoming the seventh military officers. – AFP ONE OF TWO TRAVOLTA ACCUSERS WITHDRAWS LOS ANGELES: One of the two male masseurs who accused actor John Travolta of sexual assault dropped his US$2 million (RM6. leaving the state with its coffers almost empty and no elected cabinet in place to satisfy lenders it deserves the money needed to stay afloat. Greeks have been withdrawing hundreds of millions of euros from banks in recent days as the prospect of the country being forced out of the European Union’s common currency zone seems ever more real – although there has so far been no sign of a run on bank branches in Athens. 70. European leaders who once denied vociferously that they were fretting over Greece leaving their currency union have given up pretence. but the president left again shortly Elysee Palace by his predecessor Nicolas afterwards in a different jet. the 57-year-old Socialist headed to Berlin to confront Chancellor Angela Merkel over their very different visions as to how to save Merkel and Hollande address a news conference after their talks in the the single currency bloc.” He repeated a joke he said he had read in the press. A court source said he would name a cabinet that would be as small as possible. it escapes no one that our country is going through difficult times. State television said he was born in 1945 in Patras. renewing his vow Hollande ushered Sarkozy to his car for a to turn the page on austerity and implicitly final farewell. with Merkel. who claimed that the Hollywood star groped him during a massage session in Beverly Hills in January. whose powers as head of state are limited. named supreme administrative court head Panagiotis Pikrammenos as caretaker prime minister. flashed a defiant thumbs-up as he entered the courtroom – the last of the main protagonists in the Balkan wars of the 1990s to go on trial at the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia in The Hague. which translates to “embittered” in English. saying they could not grant the US star permission to perform without a recommendation from Jakarta police. The national police. and Human Rights Subcommittee of House Foreign Affairs Committee on Capitol Hill in Washington DC. as some of China’s leading exiled dissidents – including legendary activist Wei Jingsheng and Tiananmen Square protest leader Chai Ling – huddled on the dais to listen. accusing authorities of launching the same sort of campaign against his nephew as they did to him. Big Daddy Productions reached out on Twitter to Lady Gaga fans. Despite the murder charge. “We are still in the process of finding a way to do it.” the company tweeted. We are still fighting. be patient please. Unlike in the previous hearing.” FPI Jakarta chairman Habib Salim Alatas told AFP. Chen has said he was subjected to brutal beatings under house arrest because he continued to speak out after his release from jail in 2010. Chen Guangcheng. They have said they do not recommend Lady Gaga’s performance in the capital. Chen did not voice concern over his own conditions. known as “little monsters”. a blind selftaught lawyer who last month dramatically escaped house arrest for the safety of the US embassy. Chinese dissident Bob Fu. telephoned a hearing of the US Congress for the second time this month from a hospital bed in Beijing. and we ask for everyone’s patience and forgiveness for the trouble. but declined to specify which ones. his wife and their two children. “This is a pattern. Chen had riled authorities by exposing forced abortions and sterilisations by officials meeting quotas under China’s one-childonly policy. Those people in Yinan county have already been on the opposite side of the rule of law in China. Chen served four years in jail on charges that included disruption of traffic. saying it still hoped to find a way to hold the June 3 event after already selling more than 50. “If Lady Gaga still wants to perform here.” State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said Tuesday that US visas were prepared for Chen. – AFP Smith and Bob Fu (left) listen to Chen on the phone during a hearing before the Global Health. Chen spoke to Representative Chris Smith.” Chen said. calling her the “devil’s messenger” who wears only a “bra and panties” on stage. In a striking scene on Capitol Hill. But the Islamic Defenders Front (FPI) said it would create havoc if Lady Gaga were allowed to perform in Indonesia. “These are trumped-up charges. despite police refusing a permit and Islamic hardliners threatening “chaos” if she comes to the Muslim-majority nation. Big Daddy Production spokesman Arif Ramadhoni said they were discussing the issue with several parties.” Chen said by telephone as one of his most prominent supporters. – AFP .NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. After Chai Ling – now an advocate against sex-selective abortion – praised his efforts. We will keep you updated. “Little monsters. We are ready to be thrown to jail and be killed – we will do anything to stop it. Chen said government-backed thugs broke into his nephew Chen Kegui’s house and beat him up for AFPPIX Indonesian organisers fight for Lady Gaga gig JAKARTA: Organisers yesterday vowed to fight for a Lady Gaga concert to go ahead in Indonesia. I just do what my conscience asks me to do. But he charged that local authorities in the eastern province of Shandong were seeking revenge by filing a murder charge against his nephew. three hours with stakes until his face was bloody. 2012 09 Trumped-up charges > China dissident tells US of abuse of family WASHINGTON: A dissident at the centre of a standoff between Beijing and Washington on Tuesday accused Chinese authorities of a pattern of abuse against his family as he again took his case to US lawmakers.000 tickets. go ahead.” Ramadhoni told AFP. showed no signs of budging yesterday. no one was reported dead. But please be prepared for chaos in Jakarta. translated for members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. a longtime campaigner against China’s one-child policy. with police detaining him when he fought back. Chen replied: “I’m not a hero. responsible for issuing event permits. to convey the offer to Tunku Abdul Aziz out of respect. party secretary-general Lim Guan Eng said he had tried to contact the former senator since Monday but “without success”.” he said when contacted yesterday. MB leaves water dispute to Putrajaya BY RADZI RAZAK newsdesk@thesundaily. “The section states that the determination of what amounts to national interest issues arising from the coming into operation of this Act shall be made by the minister and such determination shall be final and binding upon all persons and shall not be challenged.700 metric tonnes of solid waste every day from the solid waste disposal site at Taman Beringin.000. Jinjang to the Bukit Tagar Landfill. among others. “I will announce the outcome of the committee meeting next week.com Offer not a bribe.com GEORGE TOWN: The DAP has given up trying to convince its former national vice-chairman Tunku Abdul Aziz Tunku Ibrahim to change his mind about quitting the party.” In an interview with an English daily.” 31 PRIME MOVERS FOR SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL KUALA LUMPUR: City Hall yesterday handed over 31 units of prime movers worth RM10.” Zairil said the institute had requested Lim. Chin in a statement said that he had only the power to take over water supply from concessionaires during an emergency. Penang Barisan Nasional said it is not depending on the Tunku Abdul Aziz’s resignation to garner votes in the next election. He said the post entailed writing commitments. appealed against. Tunku Abdul Aziz had criticised Lim for being a “different kettle of fish”. . 2012 B R I E F S MEETING ON RELIGIOUS ISSUES SHAH ALAM: A meeting will be held next week to discuss religious issues in the state. Khalid said housing developers should cooperate with Syabas to install individual meters in apartments so residents could enjoy the free 20 cu m of water a month provided by the state government. we at Penang Institute saw it as an opportunity to recruit a public intellectual with valuable global network.6 million to Tetuan Umpan Jaya Sdn Bhd. says Penang Institute GEORGE TOWN: State government think tank Penang Institute has denied that its offer of a senior fellowship to former DAP national vice-chairman Tunku Abdul Aziz Tunku Ibrahim was a bribe. the contractor responsible for solid waste management in the federal capital. He said BN can get the votes to recapture the state by showing how it is willing to serve the people in Penang.” he said in a statement. State BN working committee chief Datuk Dr Teng Hock Nan said the state opposition is working on showing the people how united its component parties are. In a brief statement yesterday. reviewed. In an interview with an English daily published on Wednesday. will discuss the ‘Sunni-Syiah’ dichotomy which has been debated since the Pakatan Rakyat-led administration took over the state government in 2008. Mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad said each of the prime movers would be used to carry a 20-tonne solid waste container and move it to the Bukit Tagar Landfill. “We have plans that will be rolled out not for political gain but for the benefit of the state and for the people. in Hulu Selangor.” the chief minister said.” he told a press conference after chairing the exco meeting. including apostasy and religious freedom.10 NEWS WITHOUT BORDERS theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17.” Abdul Khalid said at a press conference yesterday after chairing the executive council meeting. On a related matter. Tunku Abdul Aziz dismissed the offer of the senior fellowship. He had also expressed his relief after leaving the party. DAP thanks Tunku Aziz BY AARON NGUI newsdesk@thesundaily. describing it as “being freed from the tyranny of a demagogue”. “Time will prove who is on the right side of history. Its chief executive Zairil Khir Johari said he regretted that the offer had been misconstrued by the former Transparency International Malaysia president. – Bernama SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government is leaving it to the federal government to do what is necessary on the stalled water restructuring exercise in the state. Next week’s meeting. programme supervision and a platform to continue engaging in public discussion of national policies. “I have no wish to exchange personal attacks with Tunku but to convey the party’s thanks for his service during his four years as national vice-chair of DAP. Zairil said the senior fellowship was a genuine offer based on a desire to make the best use of Tunku Abdul Aziz’s talent in the service of the state after his retirement as a senator for Penang. “When it became clear that Tunku did not wish to be re-nominated for another term as a senator for Penang. “The contractor will be responsible to transfer 1. He said the meeting will also discuss a special committee’s decision to enhance Islamic Religious Affairs Department’s (Jais) ability in handling problems faced by Muslims. “Penang Institute has a standard package for senior fellowship that includes a yearly stipend of RM50.” he said after the handover ceremony here yesterday. Green Technology and Water Minister Datuk Seri Peter Chin that he had no power to force concessionaires to accept the Selangor water industry restructuring plan showed that he had no confidence over his power as the minister under Section 191 (5). On Tuesday. Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said yesterday. Abdul Khalid said the statement by Energy. “At no time did the chief minister (Lim) speak about the terms of the appointment or financial details during their telephone conversation last Friday. Khalid announced the setting up of the special committee on April 4. who is its chairman. Mentri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim said that his administration is in “discussion” phase and will leave it to the federal government to exercise its powers as vested in the Water Supply Industry Act (WSIA) 2006. quashed or questioned in any court. theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. 2012 11 . 12 theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. 2012 . but that there are many avenues available to express them. Teng said. There is a great irony in this affair. It does not speak for me. If segments of society disagree with what you stand for and all that you have achieved. However. has upped the ante. it seems. He called on Najib to declare Penang a free port before the next election. but I would like you to know that I am very deeply embarrassed by the behaviour you have had to tolerate. has not changed.com E TheNutmeg Verses BY HIMANSHU BHATT Today. who is Gerakan secretarygeneral and a former Penang state executive councillor before he lost his state seat in the last general election. The hugely unpopular removal of the free port status was executed by the federal government.SPEAK UP theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. led by the BN’s own forerunner. The newly minted state chairman of the BN. I write to let you know that. as a Malaysian citizen. the DAP. established two centuries ago under British colonial rule. there has been pressure from various quarters to revive the free port status to boost tourism in particular. the docks and harbours are. there are many other more respectful and constructive methods to air their grievances. Teng was defensive when at a press conference it was suggested that the free port idea is a “bait” to woo voters. Teng Chang Yeow. a pale shadow of what they used to be. Dear Datuk Ambiga. Making Penang duty-free would be part of an overall economic programme that would be hawked to the people ahead of the next general election. Josephine Moggie via email .my 13 Free port politics YEBROWS were raised this week when news broke that the Barisan Nasional is proposing that Penang’s free port status be restored – 43 years after it had been stripped away. the Alliance. Still.” he retorted. to target you at your own home is deplorable.” Teng said. Today. Helmed by new chief minister (Tun) Dr Lim Chong Eu. As a Malaysian. But the enormous political significance of a free port. One is now left to see whether the idea of its revival will impact an impending general election in the same way that its removal did 43 years ago. To be fair. with no such move seen during the 40-odd years that the BN was in power. “People have to support this programme before we can do it. I would like to offer an apology for the way you have been treated. relatively speaking. Himanshu is theSun’s Penang bureau chief. but this latest childish demonstration of unflattering callisthenics is really scraping the bottom of the barrel. “This is a people-centric programme. the BN says it is embarking on a plan to seek public “response” to the proposal.com An apology to Ambiga I REFER to reports published in online versions of newspapers on a group of retired armed forces personnel holding “butt exercises” in front of the house of Bersih cochairman Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan. foreign entrepreneurs and tourists. said Najib has taken to the suggestion “positively”. the Gerakan-led BN administration had managed to turn the economy around in the 70s and 80s with new free industrial zones and licensed manufacturing warehouses. It’s not something new. There is no justification for this kind of behaviour. I cannot speak for anyone other than myself. The BN would pursue the implementation of the status only once it takes over the state government.” To make one more leery. and have this to say to her. “I did not use the word ‘bait’. Any person with a sense of common decency would be as appalled and disgusted as I am that you have been attacked in such a manner. confirmed that he had brought up the idea with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak recently. which now leads the ruling Pakatan Rakyat coalition in Penang. I believe that everyone is entitled to their opinions. LETTER [email protected]. Comments: letters@thesundaily. Gerakan was however compelled later to join the BN because it needed federal support to lift Penang’s economy and unemployment rate – caused in no small part by the taking away of the free port – out of the doldrums. The political coalition that stripped the state of its traditional free port status. is now appearing to use the issue as a bargaining chip for the next election. Meanwhile. The BN of course is asserting that it is only acting in the practical interest of the state’s economy. 2012 www. and a far cry from the potential they were once thought to have. in 1969. But there is a catch. I would like to borrow a phrase that has been used frequently of late – this is not the Malaysian way. “The DAP had been calling for the status to be restored for years. Personal attacks are par for the course if you are a public figure. Teng. It is not about baiting!” But to make the announcement on the “eve” of a general election will make it hard for the public to construe such a move in any other way. brought in by a bustling dutyfree port. I am deeply ashamed of recent behaviour directed at you personally. Many people remember the glory days of Penang’s waterfront when the city of George Town teemed with trading activity. I refer to blatant acts of intimidation that you have had to endure in what should be the sanctity of your home. DAP chairman Karpal Singh commented that the free port status was only now being made an issue by Gerakan. It was among the key factors that swept opposition Gerakan into power in Penang in the election that same year. The “burger protest” was bad enough. There is an obvious politically-charged inference in this – that support for the programme must equate with support for the BN. a Gerakan-led BN coalition which was removed from power in the 2008 polls is relying on the very issue of reinstating the free port to regain the state government. his stability of character will determine whether he will apply what he has learnt. the villagers may have been guilty of nothing more than being anti-colonialists. Melaka Hotel Crystal Crown.00 pm 2. Afiqah via email Not unique to pedigree dogs I AM chief trainer at the Westerwald Kennel and have attended dog training in Germany. lawyers representing the second is the awful reality that villagers revealed statements obtained during crimes such as those perpetrated in Malaya were interviews with soldiers in 1970 when the thennot isolated.14 SPEAK UP theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. Comments: [email protected] pm – 7. It may be due to the taint of Communism that is inseparable from this case. Sg. This glimmer of hope for Batang Kali The acts perpetrated by the Scots Guards survivors was to be quickly dashed once it was were shameful. although they had been with the company for more than 30 years. Parallel to the efforts of Batang Kali British Labour government ordered an campaigners to seek justice. considering the gravity of the offence if it’s proven that British soldiers involved were at fault. A human can go through all the training in the world. Like any other animal. For all we know. Former Malayan but were kept hidden in breach of legal Communist Party leader Chin Peng has also obligations for them to be transferred into the gone on record to say that none of the villagers public domain. name of the anti-Communist struggle. These could be strays or pets. Production Thomas Kang Head. the jogger. Now. impossible for the case to be buried. that’s another tragedy in itself. the company’s statement that a reasonable severance package had been extended to staff affected by its exit from the liner business. I was driving in the well-to-do area of Bukit Gasing. In reports that emerged after the and transfer of the archive. But many fail to realise that dogs are animals without a reasoning faculty. Seremban The Emperor Hotel. The victims must seek legal recourse in bringing those responsible to book and demand appropriate compensation. My father will have a problem getting employment in view of his age.00 pm 2. first time testimony by Scots the British government remained Guards soldiers admitting reluctant to delve into this that they had killed and covered up ignominious past by rejecting calls the 1948 massacre of 24 unarmed for an inquiry. he is more worried by the day. Kedah Hotel Vistana. Looking ahead.400 jobs” (Sunbiz. So all dogs left by themselves will call the shots on how to act. both of which are determined by the character of the animal which varies from one to another. Ipoh Time 2. 2012 20 th May. 2012 23rd May. we should take a scientific approach by monitoring the behaviour pattern of this dog under different situations and documenting the outcome – a task meant for serious and professional trainers and animal behaviourists. During a judicial review of the The first is the determination of Freespace British government’s decision not to Batang Kali survivors not to let Where young views rule hold an official inquiry into the history be whitewashed. 2012 27th May.com LETTERS letters@thesundaily. Worse was to detailing some of the worst crimes committed follow. the villagers of Batang Kali would be better honoured not as victims of mistaken identity but simply as people who sacrificed to stand on the same side as many other Malayans. they either act by instinct or conditioning. An attempt 20 years later by which were coldly regarded as being the Labour government of the 1970s to get to the “satisfactory”. my father was proud of his employer. Johor Bahru Hotel Cititel. in the twilight years of the British Empire. This package trapped loyal and senior staff in the 50+ age group in this arrangement. 2012 22nd May. regular references when an informal investigation exonerated the were made to “terrorist eliminations”. the owners have to be held responsible as it was an animal in their care that was allowed to run loose. Even on the day I write this. From my understanding. Was it the dog. Back home. in our memories. or the environment? Or all put together? The victim can’t give his side of the story. Only then can you get people to comply.00 pm 2. For the time being. it has received but lukewarm interest. Among the more shocking admissions.00 pm – 7. With regard to the recent dog attack which killed a jogger. other violated investigation into persistent claims of a cover-up. The bodies of some of the victims were during the final years of the Empire. The older you are. Loyalty doesn’t pay. this apathy should be shaken off. The first of these denials took place in 1949 Within these documents. According subsequently mutilated and the village burned to a Cambridge historian overseeing the review to the ground. in fact. They are intelligent because they are able to learn commands taught by humans and remember them. while there have been several attempts to bring the case to public attention through Parliament and an attempt to investigate by the Royal Malaysian Police in the 1990s (the case was eventually closed on grounds of insufficient evidence). Kuala Lumpur Hotel Armada.com Shake off apathy on Batang Kali bottom of the case was thwarted by the incoming Conservative ARLIER this month. were ever linked with his movement. As a daughter. and my father received 40% of his current salary (x) remaining months of service. But it can’t be denied that town councils are not doing enough to curb the problem from the start. 2012 19 th May. Distribution Channels Gurunatham Gopal Tel (Editorial) 03-7784 6688 Fax 03-7785 2624/5 Email newsdesk@thesundaily. It may be due to the wariness of some quarters to be involved in a compensation claims trial that threatens to dredge up many more potential cases. Other papers described actions BY YAP MUN CHING E calculated to humiliate and degrade – including one practice of forcing women to remove their clothes and throwing them far away so that they had to recover their clothing under the eye of their tormentors. and found dogs running around the joggers’ track and standing in front of houses. I too wanted to be part of the company.00 pm – 6. no weapons were said to have been should have been made accessible in the 1980s found in Batang Kali. if it is unable to redeploy them. but the archive still shed light on killing of 24 innocent people more than six some of the terrible deeds carried out in the decades ago. many of solders involved.00 pm – 7.com Tel (Advertising) 03-7784 8888 Fax 03-7784 4424 Email [email protected] pm 2. Petani. As late as January 2009. Petaling Jaya Hotel Royal Bintang. Thus. there have been many comments on breed. and we don’t have much information about history. As the innocence of the villagers becomes ever more evident. and watching him as a child. 1948 had been governments to deny responsibility for the destroyed. 2012 21st May. MISC offered several. unlike other established companies that offer one severance package.00 pm – 7. In his years with MISC. colonial office that the villagers were shot while It was during the Kenyans’ fight for the right trying to escape. A mere apology to seek closure on this tragic episode simply doesn’t register. the more you lose as the company does not recognise the years that senior staff have put in. As pointed out by a writer in The Guardian newspaper. Penang Hotel Syuen. This would provide valuable information to work backwards to understand the reason for the vicious attack. Advertising and Marketing Chandran Ravi Senior Manager. Pointing at a breed is like pinpointing a particular human race and concluding the behaviour of that race. It is a shame that such an established government-linked company is not able to offer one reasonable severance package for all staff without discrimination. but no more shameful than the confirmed that crucial papers detailing the determination of successive British events of the fateful day of Dec 11. two factors made it village of Batang Kali. My father is angry and bitter at the MISC’s lack of responsibility to its staff.00 pm – 7. training of the dog etc. This incident could easily have happened with a mongrel or a stray. With the current high cost of living and the uncertainty that lay ahead. I just want my father to be given a fair deal – what he deserves. the documents massacre. groups were doing the same in British courts.00 pm – 7. But if owners remain adamant. 2012 Venue Hotel Amanpura (SP Inn). The incident. but when faced with a situation. laws must be in place to impose heavy penalties. A dog is no different in many ways. the rubber plantation workers to sue the British government that the British were instead made to run by the same soldiers Foreign Office released an archive of material who later gunned them down. May 2). take whoever was responsible to the proverbial cleaners. Selvam Kuala Lumpur Date 18th May. Councils must do the rounds to warn irresponsible owners. Many attacks from toy breeds in homes and strays in the street go unreported due to the damage being insignificant or the absence of an accountable party. Britain’s government which cold storaged High Court heard for the the inquiry. Pedigree dogs are bred for their ability to listen and act on human commands. it would appear. Yhto Nainif Semenyih . One could infer that the destruction of the Batang Kali papers speaks just as loudly for the survivors’ case. They should. rubber plantation workers in the However. including Kenyans who allege torture by British soldiers said that contrary to claims by the forces during the Mau Mau rebellion in the 1950s.00 pm – 7.00 pm 2.00 pm 2. It is not for no reason that the Batang Kali case is widely regarded as one of the most controversial in British colonial history. And the willingness to learn and abide by the human master is what makes them stand apart in the animal kingdom. and opportunities are limited in shipping-related industries. are insisting only on an apology. the difference between anti-colonialism and Communism was not always clear. We really do not know what caused this dog to act in this way. senior Malaysians who travelled all the way to London to hear the judicial review which began at the Royal Courts Of Justice challenging the British government’s refusal of a public enquiry. 2012 26th May. My father is one of these people – he is 50 years old and out of a job. The perpetrators must pay.00 pm 2.com Out in the cold at 50 I WAS rather sad and disappointed to read in “MISC cuts 1.00 pm Apology not enough ACCORDING to news reports on the Batang Kali massacre. Mun Ching enjoys travelling off the beaten path to discover the grittier but more revealing parts of the region we call home. 2012 Managing Editor Freddie Ng Consultant Editor Zainon Ahmad Senior General Manager. 01 Third day of losses SHARE prices on Bursa Malaysia ended lower yesterday. after moving between 1. and Kencana RM968.252. had lifted the US dollar to its strongest level against major currencies. Shahril said as the company expands its reach as an enlarged entity.54.600 30.12 billion shares worth RM1. Meanwhile.60 10. it needs to support Malaysia and be a catalyst for the small and medium oil and gas companies. Turnover rose to 1.com Nikkei TSEC 8.54 -207. “We should be able to keep bid book high and backlog high at RM8 billion to RM12 billion a year. Sapura group chairman and founder Tan Sri Shamsuddin Abd Kadir and Mokhzani at the launch of SapuraKencana’s prospectus and corporate logo. Genting Malaysia Bhd. Bumi Armada Bhd. “Worries over the European debt crisis.800 18. On Bursa.801.83 SCI 2.156.5 -3. Approval was also given for the valuation of two retail properties totalling RM184 million in Kedah to be acquired by Hektar REIT. “We believe we will be able to give out dividends from the first year. JCY starts ops at 2nd China plant PETALING JAYA: JCY International Bhd.535.96 236.536.03 -56.000 20.840.” he said. losers outpaced gainers 822 to 97 while 215 counters were unchanged.58%.46 -7. installation and commissioning (EPCIC) services provider. However.346.04 2. Losers thumped gainers 822 to 97.5 42 8. the oil and gas sector is robust to the fluctuations of oil price. It is also bidding for projects in Brazil.64 billion on Tuesday.259.898. Maxis Bhd and Petronas Gas Bhd.” said Mercury Securities head of research Edmund Tham. On its capital expenditure. Shahril said: From left: Shahril. “We support 500 local vendors and suppliers by giving out RM1. Turnover was 1.62 -0. and advises investors to switch to defensive stocks with relatively low foreign shareholdings like Hong Leong Bank Bhd.858.15 -10. with South Korea’s KOSPI and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index the worst performers with 3.08 -211. “We have a build programme of US$1.07 KOSPI 1.65 Business Editor Toh Lye Huat Tel (Editorial) 03-7784 6688 Fax 03-7785 2624/5 Email [email protected] billion orderbook to keep enlarged group busy for 3½ years . respectively. Indonesia’s Jakarta Composite Index 1.25. HwangDBS said foreign investors had been net buyers of Malaysian equities since October last year.500 17.5 billion to RM2 billion worth of works to them every year. “Our burn rate of RM3. Dutch Lady Industries Bhd dropped 60 sen to RM31.06 billion from 1.5 640 -2. analysts said. due to weak sentiment amid persistent worries over the global economy. China.6% lower at 1.5 16 6.200 24. procurement. Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd led the bluechip declines. “The next support level for the FBM KLCI is 1.04 yesterday. CIMB Group Holdings Bhd closed down 14 sen to RM7. as well as undertaking jobs in the Gulf of Mexico. we find that we transcend the volatility of the marketplace.43 100. Affin Investment Bank vice-president and head of retail research Dr Nazri Khan said investors are reducing their positions in riskier assets and shifting to safe-haven currencies due to the uncertainty.55 Hang Seng 19.12%. 2012 KLCI STI 1.430. HwangDBS Vickers Research Sdn Bhd said further inflows of foreign funds may be limited as the general election looms. for the third consecutive day. On when SapuraKencana shareholders can expect a dividend.165. SapuraKencana chairman Datuk Hamzah Bakar. the company knows how to operate in a lean environment and on tighter margins given its experience in operating under such a situation.(sen) 20 13.61 352.5 16 7 20. especially in Brazil and Australia.082.2 billion in the last seven months. The FBM KLCI slipped another 25.81 -1. the lowest since end-February.773 units. But there is no serious correction in our market given that we have ample liquidity in the market. particularly that of Greece.15 25.” he added.48 1. — Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: SapuraKencana Petroleum Bhd (SKP). coming from 20 nationalities. he told Bernama.33 billion shares valued at RM2.18 and Sime Darby Bhd gave up 19 sen to RM9. JCY finance director James Wong said the lean design of the factory allows an “efficient operational flow. Executive vice-chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir said the group is currently bidding for RM7 billion worth of jobs and by year-end.03 points or 1. The new factory costs RM36 million to build and another RM9 million to fit out and furnish.000 30. which makes its debut on Bursa Malaysia today. 2012 STOCK AGLOBAL FOCUS LUSTER SAAG NICORP SANICHI MTRONIC UTOPIA ASUPREM PCHEM VOL 69. with only a 0. besides SapuraKencana shares. the company will be resilient and pull through. British American Tobacco (Malaysia) Bhd and PPB Group Bhd fell 38 sen each to RM51.63 191.000 employees.946.5 billion and will keep the group busy for three-and-a-half years.56 17. namely the Landmark Central Shopping Centre and a major portion of Central Square Shopping Centre. reduces operational lead time. construction.com Hektar REIT gets nod to increase fund size PETALING JAYA: Hektar Asset Management Sdn Bhd.16 115. KUALA LUMPUR: Blue-chip stocks suffered heavy losses yesterday to drag the stock market down sharply for the third day in a row.536. The company has some 9. “Our next steps are to meet with our unitholders to obtain their approval for the proposed acquisition and rights issue through an EGM. Blue chips bear the brunt BY PREMALATHA JAYARAMAN sunbiz@thesundaily. from the merger exercise. Measuring 237.061 billion.804. Japan’s Nikkei 1.48 28.26.12 -3.12%.46 4.5 +12. has commenced operations at its second factory in Suzhou.04. SHARIL AMIN ABDUL RAHIM/THESUN > RM13. will need to replenish US$1 billion to US$1. About half of the projects it has bid for are in Malaysia with the rest overseas.498. Axiata Group Bhd and UEM Land Holdings Bhd.061bil -180.000 sq ft or three times the size of the company’s first factory.330bil CHANGE 10.800 30.17 7.60 and RM15. The FBM KLCI ended 25.” he added.5 billion to RM4 billion per year gives us three years of backlog and we have to replenish that every year.5 -0.01 967.56. respectively.19 634.3% decline. Mokhzani said the cash payout to shareholders from the merger exercise is equivalent to eight years of dividends. He said the prolonged political crisis had pushed the country to the verge of bankruptcy and Greece could exit from the eurozone.80 S&P/ASX200 4.7 million or 49 sen a share. Shahril said: “Throughout the years. falling 64 sen to RM22. MIDF Research senior analyst Syed Muhammed Kifni Syed Kamaruddin said many bourses in the region had fallen between 1% and 2% in the past two weeks but the local bourse had managed to hold its own. with the success rate expected to be 30-40%.94 -5.70. while Tenaga Nasional Bhd lost 28 sen to RM6. has better control of wastage and reduces the cost of production”.414.04 2.” He said the company will leverage on its US$1.” he added. It reckons that stocks with high foreign shareholding that are susceptible to a selldown include AirAsia Bhd.50 SKP needs US$1-1.53 58.57 161. Singapore’s Straits Times Index lost 1.05 and 1.89 -6.536.686.5 billion business in Brazil to enter West Africa’s EPCIC market.5b new jobs yearly BY EE ANN NEE 10 MOST ACTIVES MAY 16.84 -151.234. one of the world’s largest manufacturers of hard disk drive (HDD) components.831. The weaker fundamental in the external is contributing to the losses in the local bourse.33 billion shares valued at RM2.03 points to close at 1. This.09 -109.17. SapuraCrest received a RM875.5 billion of new jobs every year to sustain a healthy backlog for the newly merged entity. falling alongside regional markets as investors feared a prolonged political crisis in Greece could slow the global growth momentum.03 45.247.57 99. from 320. and is now the world’s fifth-largest integrated oil and gas engineering. improves production yield rate.09 -25. Nor Mohamed. the quantum has yet to be set as we’re a growing company.493. taking cumulative net buying value to RM9.” he told a press conference after the launch of SapuraKencana’s prospectus and corporate identity by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Nor Mohamed Yakcop here yesterday.001.08% and 3% losses. Commenting on the impact of the global economic slowdown.1 million cash payment or 69 sen a share.5 billion over three years budgeted for three new drilling rigs and five new pipelay vessels. he said.” he added.700 29.500 26. it will have submitted bids for RM12 billion. “We’re confident that whatever happens.5 -0.773 units. 2012 INDICES FBM EMAS FBM KLCI INDUSTRIAL CONSUMER INDUSTRIAL PROD CONSTRUCTION TRADING/SERVICES FINANCE PROPERTY PLANTATION MINING FBMSHA FBMACE TECHNOLOGY TURNOVER 1.5 -2 -2 Unch -2 -5 [email protected] CLSG (sen) +/.96 13. Many projects take five or six years to execute and due to the long gestation period.536.” Mokhzani said should oil price fluctuate. manager of the Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT). Malayan Banking Bhd.ON THURSDAY MAY 17.” said Hektar Asset Management chairman and CEO Datuk Jaafar Abdul Hamid in a statement yesterday. continued to weigh on market sentiment. has obtained the Securities Commission’s nod to increase its fund size and list the new units on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia. “We expect to engage more workers and move in additional machines in the near term.854. The country’s move to hold a fresh election has given investors another reason to be cautious despite several days of equity losses.287.85 VALUE RM2.558.755.760.com KL MARKET SUMMARY MAY 16.” Shahril said. Markets across the region tumbled.500. President and group CEO Datuk Seri Shahril Shamsuddin said the company’s orderbook currently stands at RM13.000 units to a maximum of 413. after a seven-month buying streak. SapuraKencana is the result of the merger of the businesses and assets of SapuraCrest Petroleum Bhd and Kencana Petroleum Bhd. Hektar REIT is looking to increase its fund size by up to 93.90 494.09 8.com Tel (Advertising) 03-7784 8888 Fax 03-7784 4424 Email [email protected]% and Thailand’s Stock Exchange of Thailand 1. mainly due to higher losses in its liner shipping business and lower profit in its heavy engineering business. The research firm is maintaining its earnings estimate for IOI Corp in the financial years ending June 30 of 2012 and 2013 at RM2.7 million. 2012 fell 18% to RM2. IOI Corp had told Bursa Malaysia that it plans to use the net proceeds from the EMTN programme to fund capital expenditure. IOI Corp’s net gearing will be the highest among big capitalisation planters. The fares are available for online booking from today to Sunday for travel between Aug 6 and May 22. we believe that about RM800 million will be used to finance the company’s purchase of 2. Bahrain and India with 300 completed projects valued at RM19. The call warrants.9 billion a year ago. It expects the balance of RM3. Ahmad Sufian said the company is also exploring venturing into Myanmar and Indonesia. Barclays Bank Plc.” it added. Paradigm Mall in Petaling Jaya. We are pursuing RM5 billion worth of projects. said its chairman Datuk Capt Ahmad Sufian Qurnain Abdul Rashid.” he added.” said Kenanga. the world’s single largest owner operator of liquefied natural gas (LNG) tankers. with little cushion for any disappointments in palm oil or aggressive shareholder returns. with tenures of 10 months. working capital and loan repayment. On its core business. “We are still in the initial stage. but negative if they are used to invest deeper in Singapore or the Malaysian property market due to their unexciting growth prospects.” said MISC in a filing with Bursa Malaysia yesterday. “Our first flight into China took off eight years ago. Hangzhou. Another RM491 million could be used to repay its S$200 million term loan due in May 2013.” said AirAsia group head of commercial. namely Chengdu. The rating outlook is negative. while the prospects for the offshore and heavy engineering businesses remain favourable in the short and medium term and will continue to provide stability to the group. The stock closed at RM4. The latest projects are a subcontract for further flood mitigation works in Sibu worth RM45. investments or acquisitions. Maybank told Bursa Malaysia yesterday that net proceeds from each issue of notes from the MTN programme will be used for working capital. which is bidding for RM5 billion worth of projects in Malaysia and overseas.4ha plot of land in Clementi.88 and 8. and since then we have carried more than 12 million guests from seven destinations in China. newly secured jobs for 2012 total RM155 million. he said. AirAsia X begins flights to Beijing on June 22 KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia X will fly to Beijing from Kuala Lumpur four times weekly from June 22. AirAsia X is offering promotional all-in fares to Beijing from RM249 one-way on economy class and from RM1. the Sarawak-based infrastructure specialist said it is on track to surpass last year’s figure of RM313 million in new jobs. which plans to set up an US$1. Ahmad Sufian said WCT is looking at expanding its consumer-driven divisions in property development. Moody’s Investors Service had on Tuesday assigned a (P)Baa1 rating to IOI Corp’s new programme.79 times.5 million.2 billion could be used to expand the plantation group’s business in either plantation or property. which will enable the bank to issue senior notes and/or subordinated notes from time to time. Ahmad Sufian said: “As a construction company. Maybank Investment Bank Bhd and Nomura International Plc are the arrangers.5% revenue decrease in the petroleum business. AmBank issues 4 call warrants PETALING JAYA: AmBank (M) Bhd is issuing four new European-style cashsettled structured warrants over the shares of TSH Resources Bhd. In the first quarter. Kathleen Tan. could see its net gearing rise to 54-58% from 21% as at end2011.2km road project from Balingian to Jalan Persekutuan announced in February. assuming drawdown of the proceeds.9 million. Ahmad Sufian said the group will tap its 30year civil and structural construction track From left: WCT Bhd deputy managing director Goh Chin Liong.” said Kenanga.” it added.59 billion) multicurrency medium term note (MTN) programme. Ahmad Sufian and corporate affairs manager Kenny Wong Yik Kae at the AGM. HSL’s cash reserves stood at over RM200 million. “We are positive if the EMTN proceeds are used to expand IOI Corp’s plantation land. exceeding Sime Darby Bhd’s 21% and Kuala Lumpur Kepong Bhd’s net cash position. is slated for launch on May 23.129 one-way on its premium flatbeds class. rising bunker costs and vessel supply overhang contribute to the challenges faced and do not bode well for the rest of the year. Its new shopping mall. it said the global LNG market remains favourable with buoyant demand in Japan. It has also bagged a RM300 million job to design. in a statement yesterday. Revenue for the three months ended March 31. record in Malaysia. Tradewinds Plantation Bhd.1 million from RM307.12 billion respectively.com IOI Corp’s net gearing to more than double BY KANG SIEW LI sunbiz@thesundaily. we are always pursuing new projects.20 from RM5. The company plans to build another two or ANWAR FAIZ AHMAD TAJUDIN/THESUN three hotels in the next five years and is eyeing places like Penang. MISC said low freight rates. and earthworks and construction works for a RM10. and hotel and commercial properties as new earnings drivers. UMW Holdings Bhd and Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd.” the research firm said in a note to clients yesterday. “The (liner) business segment suffered a 93% reduction in liftings following the group’s decision to completely exit from the operations by middle of 2012. They are priced at 15 sen each. WCT secured a RM331 million contract for the construction of a mixed development with purpose-built medical centre at Coastal Highway in Kota Kinabalu. Maybank sets up US$5b MTN programme PETALING JAYA: Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) has obtained the Securities Commission’s approval to set up an US$5 billion (RM15. Singapore. They are mostly infrastructure projects. The mall is already 91% occupied and will be managed and operated by the company. “The new contracts bring the total value of projects in hand for HSL to RM1.4 billion from RM2. Iskandar Malaysia. It is also targeting for the construction segment to contribute 45% of the group’s earnings within the next five years. general banking and other corporate purposes.67 billion) Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) programme.8 billion.22 billion in FY11. “Cost management will be an important priority in the few quarters ahead. Kota Kinabalu and the Klang Valley. bringing the total value of new contracts secured so far this year to RM155 million. In conjunction with the launch of the new service. Qatar. IOI Corp posted a net profit of RM2. However. Guangzhou and Chongqing. “Lower earning days from reduced demand combined with softer rates have translated to 3.5 billion loan raised. 2012 MISC continues to sail in rough seas PETALING JAYA: MISC Bhd. “If so. wants to grow its non-construction business to contribute more than half of the group’s earnings by 2016. It had earlier received the nod from Bank Negara Malaysia for the new programme. Shenzhen. In a statement yesterday. the United Arab Emirates.90 yesterday. But I can’t tell you what they are because we are still in various stages (of the bidding process). both in Bintulu. AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani said the airline will allow all impacted passengers the flexibility to transfer their flight bookings into Beijing.4 million in the January-March 2012 period. pending the actual amount of drawdown from the EMTN loan. “Of the possible maximum RM4. Together with the RM82 million 20.6 million orphanage complex and a RM16. as well as recognised additional liner exit provisions of RM220. Kenanga reiterates a “market perform” rating on IOI Corp at RM5. Kenanga Research said. HSL gets RM73m contracts PETALING JAYA: Hock Seng Lee Bhd (HSL) has added three new contracts to its orderbook. Forty per cent are local and 60% overseas. following a decrease in asset values from deterioration of shipping markets. PETALING JAYA: IOI Corp Bhd. Tianjin. using the wide-body A330-300 with a configuration of 12 premium flatbed seats and 365 economy seats. construct and complete the headquarters of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry. We have to be very careful and still studying the markets.7 billion of which some RM1 billion is outstanding. The long-haul budget carrier will increase the flight frequency to daily from Aug 6. with gearings ranging between 4. 2013. Moody’s said the Baa1 rating is to accommodate IOI Corp’s greater involvement in property development. but has lowered its price target to RM5.com KLANG: WCT Bhd. it will be suspending its five-weekly Kuala Lumpur-Tianjin flights from June 21. BHP: COMMODITIES MARKETS TO COOL – PAGE 18 .05 billion and RM2. The programme was subsequently set up on Monday.16 SUNBIZ theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17.” He said company hopes to secure at least RM1 billion worth of projects this year based on its 20% success rate in the past. will be issued today at an issue size of up to 100 million each.9 million government office.5 billion (RM4. However. WCT bids for RM5b jobs > It also seeks to grow its non-construction business BY PREMALATHA JAYARAMAN sunbiz@thesundaily.” it added. he said non-construction activities are expected to contribute more than half of WCT’s operating profit by 2016 from the current 36%. The group also recognised additional impairment provision on its ships of RM116. Speaking to reporters after the company’s AGM here yesterday. Guilin. Lower revenue in heavy engineering business segment further contributed to the decrease in group revenue.60.01. saw its first-quarter net loss widen to RM465. largely on a reduction in liner business revenue from lower volume carried and lower freight rates. Sabah. all complied with the requirement. said Claudia Buch. the source told Reuters. would make Facebook the third-largest initial share sale in US history after Visa Inc and GM. should not seriously hurt Facebook’s IPO reception for now as it may not be representative of advertisers’ overall attitude.” Buch told business daily Handelsblatt.SUNBIZ theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. the most ardent defender of keeping the bloc together — the prospects of a break-up appear less catastrophic than before.” said Max Wolff. according to a Tuesday filing. founded eight years ago by Mark Zuckerberg in a Harvard dorm room. which was first reported by CNBC on Tuesday. India and China are among the nations opposed to the EU extending its emission trading scheme (ETS) to aviation. Facebook declined to comment on the increased IPO size. But on the flip side. declining to be identified because the information was confidential.” the front page was subtitled. from US$28-35. the European Commission said in a statement. “This is not a game of models and fundamentals at this point.com Inc. as well as top European officials — even at the European Central Bank. Silicon Valley’s largest. Starting this year. there were probably a lot of calls between underwriters and investors following GM’s announcement. there are other risks that are difficult to put a figure on. an analyst at GreenCrest Capital. a source familiar with the matter said.” he said. floating about 422 million shares in an offering expected tomorrow. German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble last week said that while Germany wants to keep Greece in the euro. and exceeding that of Hewlett-Packard Co and Dell Inc combined. the tab rises to more than €100 billion — not to mention losses at German regional banks. “Why Greece must now leave the euro. which also oppose the ETS extension.” — AFP . Indian airlines risk EU penalties BRUSSELS: The European Union (EU) on Tuesday warned Chinese and Indian airlines that they risked “penalties” for defying the bloc’s emission trading scheme by refusing to state how much carbon dioxide (CO2) they produced last year. Wolff said. — Reuters Chinese. Companies from the US and Russia. — dpa Greek euro exit loses taboo status in Germany BERLIN: “Akropolis Adieu!” screams the cover of the latest issue of the usually understated Der Spiegel news weekly. The social networking company is drumming up massive demand for the offering even as slowing revenue and user growth spur questions about the long-term Facebook story. coupled with Facebook’s recently announced plans to raise the IPO price range. The increased price range made it very unlikely that Facebook shares would double on their trading debut as they might have if the company had come out at the low end of its initial price range. That would value the company at US$93-104 billion. Most of the private German lenders “will certainly have written off a portion of the risks linked to Greece. this should not mean that we always need to help out every country every time. The IPO. Facebook. and could raise as much as US$16 billion (RM49. “This is much more a spectacle. said Brian Wieser.65 billion). Economists at Deka Bank have put the bill to the German taxpayer at some €86 billion (RM340. Private German banks could probably cope with a Greek exit. When Germany’s contribution to the International Monetary Fund’s section of the Greek bailout package is taken into account. “The demand for the IPO probably won’t be affected materially by this.95 billion) as strong investor demand for a share of the No 1 social network trumps debate about the company’s long-term potential to make money. airlines were meant to report to national authorities in the EU countries in which they operate on how much CO2 they produced last year. “Of course. it “can’t force anyone” and stressed that “Europe won’t sink that easily” if the eurozone were to split. noting. with a picture of a euro coin broken in two having fallen off a crumbled Acropolis pillar. As part of the ETS rules. an analyst with Pivotal Research Group. assuming that Greece does not pay back EU loans of which Berlin stumps up the lion’s share. the bloc is forcing foreign airlines serving EU destinations to stock up on CO2 permits. with squabbling politicians unable to form a government following inconclusive elections. rivalling the market value of Internet powerhouses such as Amazon. The expanded size. he said it would be a “funny sort of government” if Berlin did not at least “prepare for all possible eventualities.” GM’s announcement. Germany is beginning to count the cost of a potential Greek exit. a sign that the topic of Greece leaving the eurozone is gradually becoming less taboo.” As chaos reigns in Athens. In another interview with Sunday’s edition of Die Welt. The deadline was March 31. Those concerns over revenue growth were underscored earlier on Tuesday. eclipses the roughly US$2 billion debut by Google Inc in 2004. when General Motors (GM) said it planned to pull out of advertising on Facebook. For EU paymaster Germany. Facebook raised the target price range to US$34-38 per share in response to strong demand. 2012 17 Facebook boosts IPO size by 25% > Share sale could raise as much as US$16 billion SAN FRANCISCO: Facebook Inc will increase the size of its initial public offering (IPO) by 25%. while there was “systematic non-reporting” from Chinese and Indian airlines. a media event and a cultural moment than it is an IPO. however. He expects a first-day gain of about 10%. one of the economists that advise the German government. will add about 85 million shares to its IPO. while ill-timed. 1% in the first quarter from 9. “It is all about appropriate allocation of capital. In a statement yesterday.” said Ric Much of BHP’s Ronge.” Shares in BHP fell 4% month peak in late yesterday. and worse than before. Europe and to a lesser degree in China.2000 82. But several mining projects have been put on hold in Chile.7500 100 SAUDI RIYAL 84.twitter.8030 100 NEW TAIWAN DOLLAR N/A N/A N/A 100 NORWEGIAN KRONE 53. the amount of loans goes down too.6600 9.5% for 2012. and it is wasting tremendous amounts of money.8940 3. “Even if they (the government) reduce the required reserve ratio again. The move came after data showing the output from the country’s millions of factories and workshops hit a near three-year low in April.4400 7.9000 38. a flattening in demand for iron ore from closely followed indicator for commodities.4500 80. informal “wildcat” mining has been on the rise in recent years in Bolivia..0000 4. as local communities have fought for their rights to prior consultation under the International Labor Organisation’s Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention.4740 100 CHINESE RENMINBI 49. the Observatory of Mining Conflicts in Latin America says. coal. “We believe the government will step up efforts to stimulate the economy. down 20% against 2011.9120 5.4280 2. freeing up the money that banks can lend to their clients to try to kickstart the economy.6600 100 INDIAN RUPEE 5. an ANZ Bank analyst in Shanghai.7400 80. The government has set a growth target of 7.000 people make a living off the illegal mining of gold in extreme conditions. The state sector is too big.Follow our tweets to get latest news and updates! 18 SUNBIZ theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. the environment was different. but analysts say Beijing has only limited means to prevent a politically damaging slowdown. UEFA Euro 2012 and the expectation of a general election taking place in the next quarters. The mining giant also backed away yesterday from a plan announced by chief executive Marius Kloppers in 2011 to spend US$80 billion (RM249. “A lot of the growth right now is just waste.8700 100 QATAR RIYAL 87.8900 3. but data released indicate that the slowdown may be more intense and lasting.0500 8. the price of gold went from US$270 to between US$1. while some 20.6000 N/A 100 DANISH KRONE 55. even as genuine concerns remain regarding the very real possibility of over-stimulating.0344 0.1400 40.6900 1.1100 41. operating costs. The government needs to improve efficiency by reducing the state sector. primarily due to a drop in advertising expenditure (adex) amid volatile global economic conditions. Analysts had been predicting the economy would bottom out in the second quarter. as it loosened the purse strings to try to mitigate the impact of the global crisis on its export-dependent economy. But over 160 mining conflicts have erupted across the region amid opposition from locals against projects they consider a threat to the environment. 2012 Bank sell Bank buy Bank buy TT/OD TT OD 1 US DOLLAR 3. fund. “We will definitely see more reserve ratio cuts in the coming months.9500 82. banking on continuing high demand from its main market. Tuesday’s news that investment from Europe tumbled nearly 30% this year from the same period a year ago added to the gloom.com/thesundaily BHP warns commodities markets will cool > Says investors have lost confidence SYDNEY: BHP Billiton said it expects commodity markets to cool further and that investors have lost confidence in the longer-term health of the global economy. It increasingly looks like we’re seeing a very broad-based slowdown. sliding to its we have a period where lowest since December.1700 81.6200 5. going up.1290 3. Economists say growth could be eased further in the second quarter. Mining investments in those countries are expected to reach some US$300 billion (RM935 billion) in 2020.6800 100 HONGKONG DOLLAR 40.6900 35. hitting their February.4000 47. And the price of copper is at an all-time high. China’s central bank stepped in to reduce cash banks are required to keep in reserve for the third time since last year. The government needs to have another attitude.8 million. Beyond the immediate crisis. energy and base metals divisions. Media Prima said revenue fell 5.4790 2. and when the price of land goes down the way it does now.6500 Source: Malayan Banking Berhad/Bernama Gold rush sweeps Latin America SANTIAGO: A new gold rush is sweeping through Latin America with devastating consequences.3650 1 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 2. in its socialist past. before rebounding in six months.” In March. 2012 www.7% a year earlier.3810 1. China needs a comprehensive reform of an economy still stuck somewhat A car salesman waits for customers in Bejing yesterday. Unlicensed mining has already killed hundreds of people and devastated thousands of hectares in the Amazon forest.0327 0. Bleak data has raised fears China’s economy is cooling faster than previously thought. He never said we will do it at the same time. the first quarter of 2012 was a very challenging period for the group as perceived economic performance influenced spending trend and confidence of its clients.79 million in the first quarter ended March 31. Now pressure.2470 3.9 billion). where are the growth options? It was a valiant attempt to say we have a multitude of choices and he laid out the choices.0370 3.5200 3.0300 1 EURO 3.0700 6.0420 3. “It’s quite worrisome.4 million. Nasser said: “No. but remained upbeat on the longhas slid more than 11% since hitting a fiveterm demand outlook.” said Andy Xie. ravaging tropical forests and dumping toxic chemicals as illegal miners fight against international projects. the company is optimistic of the remaining part of the year with special events such as Olympics 2012.1090 3.” said Zhou Hao. China. who are the banks going to lend the money to? Banks use land as collateral.8740 1 NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR 2. The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Bhd.9930 3.0210 1 BRUNEI DOLLAR 2.3000 3.” he said.2800 100 PAKISTAN RUPEE 3.8600 38. fearing that anything below that could trigger mass unemployment and cause widespread unrest in the economy. itself one of the largest producers of silver. “Now that country’s economic commodity prices have expansion was cooling plateaued in the medium more than expected. showing a stagnant local economy. there is pressure on Nasser . about 10. — AFP Media Prima Q1 net falls 40% PETALING JAYA: Media Prima Bhd’s net profit declined 40. During the past decade.600 and US$1. Another problem is that policy makers in Beijing largely have to act on the same economic statistics available to everyone else. fund manager at earnings hinges on Pengana Global resources demand growth in China. and these data often provide muddled signals about the real state of the economy.19 million. Group managing director Datuk Amrin Awaluddin said despite the softening of revenue in the first quarter. Peru and Argentina.2% to RM20. lowest since July 2009.9700 100 BANGLADESH TAKA 3. thanks to China’s strong appetite for it. Chairman Datuk Johan Jaaffar said as anticipated.” On Saturday.6800 35. “What China needs is structural reforms..” Asked if BHP would spend US$80 billion over five years. up 57%.7500 49. The thirst for mineral resources makes Latin America one of the attractive regions for investment.8130 3. Thousands of people in Colombia have started exploiting abandoned mines in Antioquia and Choco. China’s economic slowdown presents challenge BEIJING: Bleak data has raised fears China’s economy is cooling faster than previously thought. China.0277 100 JAPANESE YEN 3. In Madre de Dios.7bil) over 5 years to expand its iron ore.9400 100 THAI BAHT 10.0560 1 AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR 3. kickstarting higher growth but also fuelling higher prices. Economists expect the central bank to cut the reserve ratio further. posted a 2% higher revenue of RM158 million.4800 49.800 per ounce.0660 3. Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) says. With high international market prices for metals. and there may also be more spending. Growth in China fell to 8. as domestic demand drops and Europe’s debt woes curb business. Colombia and Peru. “The second thing was investors were saying well.3% to RM335. However.6740 3.8800 50. The Australian contributed to record dollar was also under growth in the sector.79 million a year earlier.5100 2.2%. Media Prima’s outdoor media recorded a revenue of RM38 million. according to the InterAmerican Mining Society.” – AFP . Beijing launched a spending package of four trillion yuan (RM1. with imports virtually flat.1000 100 SWEDISH KRONA 45.3180 3.28 million from RM354. Peru about 18 tonnes of gold are produced per year. When Marius (Kloppers) talked about the US$80 billion.8970 3.4900 82.” chairman Jacques Nasser said. “A more assertive monetary policy is now needed.4200 1 CANADIAN DOLLAR 3. which owns BHP Chinese data showed the shares. In Bolivia. all about appropriate Industrial output growth companies with the costs slowed in April and fixed allocation of capital.4240 2.1160 3. “The tail winds of high The broader market was commodity prices have down 2. but they questioned whether that would be enough.4785 2. where miners have set up camps. while its new media division had revenue of RM4. as people see it as a safe investment.1000 100 PHILIPPINE PESO 7. 2012 from RM34.2100 50. set to dominate world production of precious metals by 2020.3000 2.” rising capital and said Nasser. Its print division. its television networks recorded a lower revenue of RM119 million. and there have been accusations China has been too slow to react to the cooling.” research firm IHS Global Insight said.2320 100 ARAB EMIRATES DIRHAM 86.000ha of tropical forest are destroyed. those tail winds are “They are facing moderating and we expect margin pressure through further easing over time. It needs to change.8990 4.2500 100 SOUTH AFRICAN RAND 38. term.3230 1 PAPUA N GUINEA KINA 1.” The government got its fingers burned with fiscal expansion from late 2008 onwards. BHP said it saw signs of The Reuters-Jefferies CRB index. up 15% over the corresponding period in 2011 while its radio networks registered a 10% increase to RM13.4200 1 STERLING POUND 5.4800 100 SRI LANKA RUPEE 2.4200 100 INDONESIAN RUPIAH 0. We are seeing a asset investment hit its cycle within a super cycle lowest level in nearly a largely because of the macro events in decade. Otherwise the problems will just mushroom. – Reuters EXCHANGE RATES Foreign currency MAY 16.4280 2. an independent economist.8790 1 SWISS FRANC 3. according to Xie. copper and gold.3390 2. 40-year-old SP Navapushanam from Setapak. the 7th Nestlé ‘Nourishing Malaysia’ showcase kicked off at the Straits Quay Convention Centre in Penang where it continued to promote healthy living to Malaysians under its tagline ‘good food. as Milo Wushu coaching. Fitnesse Jazzercise and a performance by Aseana Percussion Unit sponsored by Maggi ‘Happiness is Homemade’. 35-year-old Razmi Zakaria from Klang. Other events that were carried out during the showcase weekend included educational sessions aimed toward informing visitors on making healthier choices by reading nutrition labels. Initially he was responsible for launching the Starcom brand in Asia and setting up its first office in Singapore in 1999. 33-35.media & marketing theSun on THURSDAY | MAY 17. Working Adults: Dual role A quick upgrade for your career The flexible delivery of the Executive Diploma is specially designed to meet the needs of working adults and will provide you with the competitive advantage needed for a promotion or to pursue a new career path. The programme is based on a student-centered learning approach. Sabah and Sarawak. Contest participation requires the purchase of Celcom Xpax reload valued at RM30 or above in a single receipt.” says Seah. is frequently involved in campaigns in line with the government’s 2006 to 2015 National Plan of Action for Nutrition of Malaysia. The contest sponsored by HTC Sdn Bhd. health and wellness company. Starcom MediaVest Group and ZenithOptimedia to strengthen the service offering and clout of all agencies in the region. and International Student Readiness Category passion guided. tHe current CEO of Starcom MediaVest Group (SMG) in South-East Asia (SEA) Jeffrey Seah was recently appointed to the role of Country Chair for VivaKi SEA. as this is where we started our journey in this country back in 1912. we have a powerful opportunity to have a stronger and more unified voice in the marketplace by combining forces.edu. ensuring you gain further knowledge. Winners will be notified via telephone by BHP. nutrition. Mathematics & Computing Category. Singapore and the Philippines. The launching of the showcase was presided over by the governor of Penang Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas together with the chairman of Nestlé Tan Sri Syed Zainol Anwar Jamalullail and a member of the board of directors of Nestlé Malaysia Datuk Frits van Dijka. “We have decided to have this year’s showcase in Penang. “The introduction of the VivaKi structure in SEA will help consolidate scale in the marketplace. Vietnam. As country chair. The showcase which presented various aspects of everyday Malaysian life – from the classroom to the ‘kopitiam’ . Thailand. With agencies and experts throughout Indonesia. Johor. As CEO. Science. The Nestlé showcase was first introduced in 2006 and has since taken place at various locations around the country such as Klang Valley. Executive Diploma • Business Administration JPT/BPP(N/340/4/0096)(10/16) KL CAMPUS • Accountancy JPT/BPP(K)(N/344/4/0083)(2/17) KL CAMPUS Associated Institution of SEGi University College: SEGi College Kuala Lumpur (JPWP178) Bangunan SEGi. industry driven university .my TOLL FREE: 1800-88-8028 MOHE MyQuest Evaluation SEGi College Kuala Lumpur Health and Welfare Category. There were also special presentations of games and dance activities from various Nestlé brands such A fitnesse jazzercise session was part of the activities during the Nestlé showcase. Services Category. This was announced by the VivaKi board of directors in Chicago on May 7. gifted one weekly winner for each week in April with a HTC One smart phone. ‘Seah has a formidable track record of delivering growth and new thinking in this important region. good life’. A health-check booth also featured a calculator used to determine the sodium content in food. Malaysia. 2012 19 A good life > nestlé promotes a healthy lifestyle at its showcase H eLd in the last week of April. Razorfish. Seah will continue to work collaboratively with the regional and local leadership of Digitas. Koko Krunch Taekwondo demonstration. food. Such campaigns include ‘World Walking Day’ as well as the ‘How Am I’ and ‘Choose Right’ campaigns.all demonstrating healthy lifestyles was visited by over 14 thousand people. 25year old Vivien Chen from Subang Jaya and 25-year-old Noraini Marwan from Batu Caves were the lucky four. The contest is being held at selected BHP service stations with e-Pay facilities throughout Peninsular Malaysia. the BHPetrol (BHP)-Celcom-HTC contest announced and presented prizes to their first month’s winners selected based on the entries submitted weekly throughout April. T 03-2070 2078 F 03-2034 2759 E infokl@segi. A visitor at the Nestlé a leading wellness booth. skills.” said VivaKi CEO Jack Klues. 50100 Kuala Lumpur. It allows both ZO and SMG to align our focus and resources to future proof our operations. Smart phones for lucky four Last Thursday. restructuring around VivaKi and aligning behind Seah’s leadership.” clarified managing director of Nestlé Malaysia Peter R. Jalan Hang Lekiu. Vogt on the choice of this year’s showcase location. There are total of 12 HTC smart phones to be won during the contest which is ongoing from April until June 30. techniques and ethics to excel in your chosen career. as well as deliver against operational and financial goals. of celebrating educational excellence 1977~2012 years (From left) Celcom accounts manager Ganesh Sammuggam with the four prize recipients and the BHP marketing manager Baba Tan at the prize presentation. Seah has spent more than a decade at SMG and paved the way for Starcom to become an established entity in South East Asia. Nescafé Rock Band Challenge. he support the brand leaders to drive cross-brand growth initiatives for VivaKi in market. Nusantara Edaran Filem. I think I felt I had to model my life after my mother’s. But since she’s never heard me say I want a baby or husband. ever do that. where he discovered a totally different technique of self gratification. And I think the great thing is [if] you don’t expect anything.” Album ordeal Expecting a good comedy > Cameron Diaz who stars in What to Expect When You’re Expecting feels she is not ready yet to have a child LEONA LEWIS (pix) will conduct a masterclass for London teenagers together with rapper Plan B on the BBC Radio 1 and 1Xtra Academy initiative in her home town of Hackney. acting and radio. Meanwhile the singer is said to be embarking on a six-week course of intensive training to prepare herself for the show. You would have left the stadium saying how hilarious his show was and what a comedy genius Peters was. Over the moon about starting a family. You look at where we came from.” What to Expect When You’re Expecting opens in cinemas today.thesundaily. Gary (Ben Falcone). were asked what they thought of it.000 youngsters with lessons in music. I was sick but then I was the only person who could get it done. After that I never put another timeline on anything in my life. But this segment of his show fell a little flat that night.” You can’t equate children with happiness. Skyler (Brooklyn Decker). It built tremendous expectations on his show and Peters. women are realising: ‘Wait a minute. the feminism of the 60s and 70s that basically said: ‘Women can do it all’. It goes to show that our audiences are becoming more mature. you need to have an intimate connection with your audience. it’s not even a conversation between us. struggles not to be outdone by his competitive alpha-Dad Ramsey (Dennis Quaid). Teaching London kids I SIMON COWELL will fill singer Britney Spears’ (pix) X Factor dressing room with figs and prunes. unfortunately. Baby-crazy author and advocate Wendy (Elizabeth Banks) gets a taste of her own militant mummy advice when pregnancy hormones ravage her body while her husband. Harith Iskandar. and tries to quiet his panic by attending a “dudes” support group. then you usually get much more than you could possibly ever imagine. There’s a box people put themselves in. rival food truck chefs Rosie (Anna Kendrick) and Marco (Chace Crawford)’s surprise hook-up results in an unexpected quandary: what to do when your first child comes before your first date? Diaz. His experience in Bangkok. that makes them uncomfortable. “I read an article in a New York magazine titled something like I Love My Children. “Regardless of what you plan for. east London. who turned up at Friday’s show. What I liked best about his show was the content and my favourite was his Bollywood experience. It’s right for some people and it isn’t right for others. But it’s not what I’ve wanted out of my life thus far. you would probably be impressed with his recent act at Stadium Malawati in Shah Alam. they have to look at themselves and question their own choices. We still live in a largely chauvinistic world. . Many of his X-rated jokes were definitely amusing. there’s a reason for it. Leona said: “It’s important for us to come back and support those who are doing amazing things. TV fitness guru Jules (Cameron Diaz) and dance show star Evan (Matthew Morrison) find that their celebrity lives do not stand a chance against the surprise demands of pregnancy. she said: “It was the craziest schedule I’ve ever been on in my entire life. Raising happy kids is very challenging. my mum would feel bad for me. who is expecting twins with his much younger trophy wife. A handful of Malaysian celebrities. The project aims to help 10. his show was not a total bore. Knight & Day and What Happens in Vegas. Peters’ speciality is poking fun at people seated near the stage. Photographer Holly (Jennifer Lopez) is prepared to travel the globe to adopt a child but her husband Alex (Rodrigo Santaro) is not so sure. He was very relaxed on stage and he poked fun at real-life issues. Asked how hard she worked on latest record Talk That Talk. The singer was hospitalised with a bout of flu in November and admitted her hectic schedule meant she barely had time to rest and recuperate. But I appreciate the organiser’s effort in bringing him here for the Malaysian audience.20 ENTERTAINMENT theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. but he shot down rumours they had parted ways on the red carpet for the premiere of his new film in London. I get into bed and my phone started going off. No doubt the pricey tickets (costing between RM128 and RM438) were sold out three hours after his show was announced and Forbes had ranked him as the seventh highest-paid comedian in the world. I think whatever choice women make about having a child. who is well known for her comedic roles in films such as Bad Teacher. But the venue where Peters performed didn’t help in this department as the stadium was too big. I also appreciate the fact that the authorities are loosening up to allow comedians to be more liberal with their jokes. talks about her views of having children in a questionand-answer transcript provided by the movie’s distributor. but all that hype had worked against him to a certain degree.” – Bissme S. I think you have no idea what life is going to hand you. it’s hard to do it all’. comedian-cumdirector: “This is my first time watching Peters live and I had a great time. What to Expect When You’re Expecting is a hilarious and heartfelt big-screen comedy about five couples whose intertwined lives are turned upside down by the challenges of impending parenthood. – Bang Media Still with girlfriend NSPIRED by the New York Times bestseller of the same name and the first book in a series that has sold over 35 million copies worldwide. His experiences in India. 2012 www. Apparently the pair have been living separate lives for months.” It just proves that you can’t ever predict what’s going to transform your life.” Leona and Plan B will work with children aged 13 to 15 from the Pupil Correction Unit in Newham to create a special musical performances. He told The Sun that the rumours were not true. Meanwhile. and there are often a lot of sacrifices that have to be made. She’s happy when she sees me happy. was funny too. Do you have a timeline in terms of when you thought you would be married and have kids? “I thought I was going to be married and have two children by the time I was 21. And slowly. would have had you in stitches. Women just have to let up on ourselves. in whatever capacity. where new fathers get to tell it like it really is.” Hans Isaac. Fruity treat for Spears JOHNNY DEPP (pix) has denied splitting from longtime girlfriend Vanessa Paradis. But then.my SCREEN SHORTS RIHANNA (pix) broke down and “wanted to punch someone” while recording her latest album because she was so “overwhelmed”. I Hate My Life.” Do you think our culture pushes motherhood and judges women who do not have kids? “I’m sure a lot of people would expect that I would have had a child by my age. Of course. actor: “I didn’t find Peters funny this time around compared to the time when he started his career. I don’t think anyone should regard those choices as good or bad. The TV mogul has signed her to appear as a judge on the US version of talent show – for a reported US$15 million (RM45 million) – and a promise he made to clinch the deal was to keep supplying her with the fruits she usually insists on in her tour rider. which is really hard to do in this day and age. where he wanted to score with a famous Bollywood actress but ended up spending time with her parents instead. Show me the funny! IF IT was your first time catching Canadian-born standup comedian Russell Peters (left) in action. But those who had watched the 42-year-old comedian perform on YouTube or his DVDs or his live shows in other countries might not have shared the same excitement.” What about pressure from your families? “My mum would never. If having children and a family was something I really wanted but couldn’t manage to have. So that dream for me was shattered early on. failed to live up to it. my career was starting to take off and there were still so many things I wanted to do. and when you live outside of it.” Afdlin Shauki. comedian: “When you do standup comedy. I saw him six years ago in Singapore in a smaller and cosier venue and I enjoyed the show better. has yet to meet his saviour. 2012 21 Princess goes places BY ANANSA JACOB USICALS are a labour of love for Ho Lin Huay. we can produce a professional show that’s not only excellent. following a successful Taiwanese debut earlier this year. For details. maybe five minutes. I was very nervous.” – Ho Lin Huay history. auditioned and landed the role she had dreamt of. So for us. the director and one of the founders of Asia Musical Productions Sdn Bhd (previously named Musical On Stage Productions). “But I had to appear calm and strong while singing.” Macarthur told The Australian newspaper. Classically-trained soprano Evelyn Toh will be playing the title role opposite veteran Yang Wei Han as Songtsan Gampo. Eventually. will now be restaged in Beijing and Xi’an as Princess Wen Cheng – The Musical (far left.” Adelaide-born Dempster had started working in London two weeks before. I wanted to try out for it. “Just imagine what she had to go through all those centuries ago.” she said.” Princess Wen Cheng will be staged from May 18 to 22 at the Beijing Poly Theatre. as very few written records exist today. there have been some funny moments. even in a 4WD. What is known is that she was most likely a niece of the King of Chang’an.” she said. which had a successful run in Malaysia in 2008. one of the dancers wore her costume backwards. because that was where Princess Wen Cheng originally came from. There is also political intrigue and betrayal. “I was inspired on hearing stories of Princess Wen Cheng and seeing her statues in temples. and the fact that this production is put up by mostly amateurs doing it purely for the love of the arts is what sets us apart. but it was true. despite the fact that the cast and crew consisted of amateurs or part-timers. visit www. We want to prove to the world that here in Malaysia. (left) All dressed up .” It took five minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and work with a defibrillator to get Dempster’s heart beating again. The Rain Man actor was walking near his London home when he came across Sam Dempster. she heard about this new musical they were doing.ENTERTAINMENT theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. we can produce a professional show that’s not only excellent. Dempster. the biggest challenge is changing costumes for the next scene or dance. Joining Toh onstage is Alana Sim. it’s almost like bringing the princess back home. “I came to in the ambulance. Princess Wen Cheng – The Musical (originally called Jewel of Tibet) will make its China debut in Beijing and Xi’an. “The first two had male leads. as well as stirring musical and dance numbers featuring amazing sets and multiple costume changes. Ho and Toh. “We want to prove to the world that here in Malaysia. so I wanted to do one with a female lead. education and civilisation of the Tang dynasty to Tubo. “But as a staunch Buddhist.” The musical follows the basic M > Jewel of Tibet.” At the time of her trip.” The story of Princess Wen Cheng is actually based mostly on oral history and myths.. “The standards in China are very high.” However. Songtsan Gampo. Not only that. Another time. Toh heard they were doing a revival of the musical. “One time. experienced dancer. and this time. “I thought it might’ve been a joke to liven me up a bit.” she said. recent news reports said. the dedication shown by the cast and crew of Princess Wen Cheng is a source of pride. “For me. “I had a strange feeling that the lead role was important. but can be accepted by an international audience. from left) Sim.” For Ho. “He was taking dying breaths. – dpa . asiamusicalproductions. Above Full Moon and Kita musicals. In 2007 when Toh was performing in another of Ho’s musicals. The 74-year-old dual Academy Award winner phoned for an ambulance and helped the stricken runner until paramedic Martin Macarthur took over.” Sim said. Hoffman a Good Samaritan HOLLYWOOD actor Dustin Hoffman (right) was credited with saving the life of an Australian lawyer who had a heart attack while jogging in London’s Hyde Park. and have our hair or makeup redone. who was sent off to ancient Tibet to marry its king.. so after one dance. who he described as staggering and frothing at the mouth after Dempster suffered a cardiac arrest in the April 27 incident. “It’s a very difficult journey. It gained a reputation among critics and audiences for its shows’ high-production values and talented performances. so I did a lot of research and came up with the story for Jewel of Tibet. who learned he had a congenital heart defect and has been fitted with a device to ward off another attack. The musical premiered locally in 2008 and was a success. in a journey that took her and her entourage three years to make.000km over dangerous terrain. she became one of the most revered figures in Tibetan history.” Dempster was quoted as saying. “My co-star Wei Han said maybe all the [experiences] I had undergone before this was a preparation for the role of Wen Cheng. Its 2012 revival not only features a new name. so we had to act fast. as she helped bridge the two countries.” she said. when it was known as Chang’an. “Dustin had turned him over on to his back. The company is known for its groundbreaking productions like Siddhartha. and there were crewmembers standing below ready to catch me. which was really useful and would have assisted in keeping his airways open.” she said. This month. Toh as Princess Wen Cheng and Yang as Songtsan Gampo. but then I found out I was pregnant and had to take some time off from musicals.” Last year. Ho herself visited the region and travelled along Wen Cheng’s path over four years ago. the outcome “would have been very bad”. she had to travel 3. one of its productions. and the paramedics said: ‘You wouldn’t believe who called the ambulance for you!’ and I freaked out a bit. she plays one of Princess Wen Cheng’s handmaidens. and that to reach Tubo (her future husband’s kingdom). That’s why she is known as the first female ambassador.com. that I somehow had to do it. 27. but a new lead as well. there are so many other stagehands and cast members running around backstage that it’s very stressful sometimes. we all rush backstage and change costumes in the dark. “The first time. but fills in the gaps with a love story involving Wen Cheng and Songtsan Gampo. she saw it as her mission to bring the culture. one of the ensemble cast members. A talented. Ho was looking for an idea for a third musical. The musical tells the story of the 7th century Tang Chinese princess. but can be accepted by an international audience. “Not only that. “We’ve very little time in between dance numbers. (below) Scenes from Princess Wen Cheng – The Musical. Ho said: “The performance in Xi’an is special for us. she had no idea what to expect from her future husband or her strange new home. Macarthur said that without Hoffman’s compassion. a newer male dancer accidentally wore his false beard and moustache as sideburns!” Toh faced her biggest onstage challenge in one musical where she had to sing on a raised platform situated eight metres above the ground on an elaborate set. and also performs other dance numbers. and then roasted. squid and toasted almonds. salad. with the assistance of E&O group creative chef Steve Allen. Peking duck wrapped in crepe. using their collective years of experience in the culinary world and also taking into consideration customer feedback. “The inspiration behind the dishes is freshness. tamarind BBQ chicken wings. This is because he personally takes on the task of doing all the roasting so as to maintain the quality of the food served to his customers. Low. The outlet is decorated in the unmistakeably white and turquoise signature colours with quirky bird cages for accents. He needs the time to import the birds from Shenzhen. Ambience: Casual and comfortable with very attentive service . the juicy goose is crunchy as you bite into it. Imported weekly from Hong Kong. Crisp and glossy on the outside. the roast pork belly and char siew spare ribs also showcase Low’s skill in roasting. cold chocolate fondant. Dinasti Sentral. crispy tiger prawns in coriander butter. The glutinous rice is cooked and flavoured with spices and cubes of duck meat before it is stuffed into the chicken wing skin.22 WHERE2EAT theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. and char siew spare ribs and roast pork belly. roast pork belly and char siew (BBQ pork) spare ribs. which is wrapped in a thin crepe and served with sweet sauce. They went through more than 70 recipes. main and dessert selections – all created by the chain’s group executive chef Kasdi Dahari. and roast them. Delicious’ grazing menu also welcomes some healthy and yummy appetizers – eggplant and sesame chips with a fennel yogurt dip (top). Middle Eastern and European cuisines. But customers must order at least one week in advance as Low insists on freshness. and glutinous rice stuffed in chicken wing skin (above). 58200 Kuala Lumpur. then you would probably want to try out its new menu which was launched on May 15. Type of Food: Roasted meat Hong Kong style Food classification: Non-Halal Price: Average to high. from top right) The restaurant’s signature roast duck. testing them till they shortlisted the list to 45. Off Jalan Kuchai Lama. has no plans to expand. 2012 Delicious menu for diners IF YOU are already a fan of the Delicious chain of restaurants. chilled pineapple cheesecake. The roast goose is definitely the restaurant’s main attraction. as well as the red pesto gnocchi. customers are guaranteed quality food served at reasonable prices BY CHAN SOO WAH H AVING been in the food industry for the past 20 years. which is another highlight of this restaurant. The owner of Yummy Duck Roast House personally ensures that his restaurant only offers quality meals to each and every customer. raspberry and mango tart. hazelnut and cranberry crumble slice. Flightless birds aside. Sweet temptations are what Delicious is famous for and its latest dessert offerings comprise apple. Other popular dishes here are the appetizers such as Peking duck. YUMMY Duck Roast House is located at 9. Low also serves (from left) Allen and Kasdi … mixing their creative juices to come out with the new menu.” said Kasdi. “The dishes are intended to remind you of homecooked food with a twist that suits the Malaysian palate. mushroom broth. This menu offers diners 25 new dishes in the soup. HSBC Malaysia has tied up with Delicious to offer its credit cardholders a 10% discount off the total bill (minimum of RM100 in a single receipt) when dining at the any Delicious restaurant. It goes well with a bowl of rice or a plate of plain Hong Kong noodles. Parking: Can be a challenge Operating Hours: Daily. The noodles are served in three different ways – dry. and Thai fried calamari with green peppercorn ginger jam. Both the pork belly and char siew are tender and juicy while the layer of fat in between the meat melts in your mouth. The prices here are reasonable. Jalan Kuchai Maju 18.” Kasdi and Allen spent months developing the new offerings. with a winning combination of Mediterranean. Shah Alam. the noodles are thin but have a springy texture. The meat has just the right amount of salt as well. This offer is valid until Aug 31. Yummy treats > At Yummy Duck Roast House. The restaurant has an open kitchen located at the entrance to cater to customers who opt for takeaways. crispy noodles. Chef William Low believes that food quality should be the most important criterion in any restaurant. soupy or spicy. roast chicken. Hong Kong style. It is also renowned for its roast goose (below). quiche. roasted tomato soup with crumbed mozzarella & basil. Delicious opens its ninth cafe today at Setia City Mall in Setia Alam. There is the Middle Eastern-inspired harrisa parmigiano baked eggplant and the Italian pumpkin risotto with chargrilled prawn. which then underwent another two rounds of tasting till they have their 25 dishes. China. Besides duck and goose. This collaborative effort between the two chefs has resulted in a wider culinary selection for Delicious fans. Yummy Duck Roast House serves more than just roast duck. “We use the freshest ingredients to create healthier food as people’s eating habits the world over are progressing towards consumption of more nutritious food and the use of more sustainable products. The traditional Delicious warmth and friendly smiles will be there to welcome diners to its newest addition under the Delicious Group. who has been operating his restaurant for three years. leek and zucchini quiche served with black olive tapenade. and warm melted ‘chocolicious’ pudding. as well as the tomato. The new entries that earn star billing are the 16-hour braised boneless beef short ribs in spiced caramel (right). 11am to 10.30pm. (clockwise. president of automotive site Edmunds.3 or 4.” Carter said.. such as the fourth series (below). others are looking for environmentally-friendly options. using a joystick to help navigate the chrome circular display. if there’s a way to do it. while others are looking for zippy little cars with an urban feel. “The common thread through all that is (that) we do pack those vehicles with a high level of content. expensive and fast”. according to a report in Germany’s Autobild newspaper. Young people are attracted to buying luxury . came the sixth generation that was also given a facelift in 2008 and a sixgear automatic transmission with diesel engine option. president of the North American division of General Motors. 2012 23 Auto attractions > Carmakers are making efforts to lure young consumers with gadgets and sleek designs RED MEANS D ASHBOARDS glittering with gadgets. In contrast to the outgoing model. According to AutoBild. “But we have to do it in a responsible way that’s not distracting. they certainly want premium goods. “All I can tell you is.5-litre V8 bi-turbo engine and 564hp for the AMG performance package. Originally presented by the Pininfarina design studio in 1966.” – AFP-Relaxnews WHEEL BRIEFS More power for the SL 63 AMG MERCEDES has released a new version of the SL 63 AMG (below) with a power boost and a 30% improvement in fuel economy.2 litres or 30% less than for the outgoing model. encouraging a robust after-market upgrade industry. thanks to a jack for an electric guitar. But then to the chagrin of many of its fans came the modernised version number five based on the Alfa 159. of Toyota Motor Sales USA. brakes or turns. including “yippee. The car also turns fuel efficiency into a game using a fish bowl graphic that tips over if a driver wastes fuel by accelerating or braking too quickly. enhanced sports suspension and speed-sensitive steering. navigation systems that track the location of Facebook friends. The last Spitfire was manufactured in 1980. Autobild says the latest A4 will offer more space for both passengers and luggage with the technology on board taking up less space. The sixth-generation SL retains the electro hydraulically-operated vario-roof. but could make it easier to trust teens with the keys. which Mercedes says is 4. said Mark Reuss. specifically on technology. Fuel consumption comes in at 9. spoilers and appliques.2 seconds respectively.800 different messages. enabling the SL to be transformed into a roadster or a coupe in under 20 seconds.9 litres per 100km for both power ratings. only 9. The all-aluminium body shell is similar to that of the SLS AMG super sports car with the vehicle weight reduced by 125kg. The new AMG brand face comprises the twin blade radiator grille and the lower cross-strut in the front apron – both featuring a chrome finish. Some want a hatchback or sport utility vehicle so they can haul bikes.” “It would be a misstep to paint youth with a broad brush. the new Beetle’s Fender sound system. there are three versions to choose from for the new SL: painted roof. “It’s a generation that grew up in affluence.ON THE ROAD theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. and Toyota’s Scion FRS … out to lure young people with its stylish looks. Sonic and Spark and designing them to “look confident. and are expanding their offerings of entry-level luxury vehicles. Voice recognition. restaurant reviews. The interior sports a screen in the centre of the cockpit which replaces the classic circular instrumentation. Car sales among the under-30 crowd have been sluggish in recent years and – perhaps more worryingly – most teenagers in the US are no longer rushing to get a driver’s licence the instant they’re old enough for the traditional rite of passage. “The big thing about the youth market is. Carmakers are also expecting the ‘millennials’ to be more interested in luxury brands once they settle into their careers. Despite the reduced mass. that was awesome!” for a smooth turn and “it’s cold outside”.033 A4 models were sold compared to 12. Personalisation and performance has been a big part of Scion’s appeal – it offers a wider range of colours and interiors. The top speed is electronically limited at 250kph.” But the ongoing recession also has young people looking for value. The latest A4 underwent a major facelift last year with sales in Germany falling behind those of the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. – dpa New Audi A4 in the planning for 2014 THE NEXT generation Audi A4 heading for the markets in 2014 will be significantly lighter and more economical than current versions like the Audi A4 Avant (above). – dpa . whether it’s kitchen appliances or clothing or handbags or cars.114 Mercedes C-Class models. “We talk a lot about the democratisation of luxury. the car will ride on the MLB Evo platform which will enable it to weigh 120 to 150kg less than the current model. general manager of Toyota’s luxury Lexus brand.” he said on the sidelines of the show.” said Bob Carter. are not perturbed by typical problems that include generators that sap the battery power and clutch problems particularly in the models produced between 1998 and 1999. said Mark Templin. STOP! TO RUN THE RED LIGHT A Community Campaign by NOT COOL IT’S of the data was collected in a recession – if you can’t afford something you don’t give it a lot of thought. Output is listed at 537hp for the AMG 5. BMW’s Mini is the most tricked-out car on display at the Detroit auto show early this year – offering drivers a way to turn their car into both a video game and a DJ. “Who really knows if it’s possible to make young people fall in love with an automotive brand the way they do with a phone or a laptop or a social network?” Reuss said. Hyundai’s navigation system lets parents track how fast their teenagers drive and where they take the car – which might sound a bit creepy and restrictive. While some young people are still attracted to muscle cars and performance. and search engines are also becoming standard fare as carmakers seek to keep up with a generation raised in the digital age. the Spider was produced for 27 years until production was finally ceased in 2010.com. In 2006.” Toyota has developed an entire brand – Scion – to lure young people looking for something more stylish than what their parents drive. Bluetooth connections. During the first quarter of this year. The Mini’s dynamic music system shifts sound levels of different speakers and adds tracks when the car accelerates. taking on the form language of the other models in the Alfa stable but losing its individual style. the A4 is expected to grow in size to battle the enlarged BMW 3-Series. turbo-charged engines and sleek designs are on offer as carmakers try to attract young consumers who care more about computers than cars. do they care about cars at all. Its transparency can be switched to light or dark at the push of a button. surfboards or friends. The basic Pininfarina form was maintained until 1994. Chevrolet is going to find it. glass roof or the panoramic vario-roof. and access to internet radio stations. – dpa The last big Alfa Romeo classic ALFA ROMEO Spider is arguably one of the last of the great classics produced by the Italian carmaker. Acceleration times are from zero to 100kph in 4. True fans of the Alfa Spider.” Jeremy Anwyl. told AFP. which can be retracted into the boot to save space. taking up the challenge in the convertible two-seater segment dominated until the late 1970s by the Triumph Spitfire. That’s why GM is expanding its small car offerings like the Chevy Cruz. Volkswagen’s new Beetle features a Fender sound system that can be turned into an amplifier.714 units of the BMW 3-Series and 17.. from left) BMW’s Mini Roadster launched at the Detroit Show. And the on-board computer is programmed to speak 1. “Nobody really has an answer because a lot (clockwise. However. Moekana. in which your ruler Pluto takes a starring role. Yet it’s increasingly clear they have greater interest in the particular situation than you do. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Christian Bale. they will have to purchase the Festival+Stage tickets at RM30 per day.30pm 2pm 5pm 5. Unsettling as events are initially. you’re urged to raise these now. including Kotoko. One of the most highly-anticipated activities will be a cosplay championship. Be more flexible.35pm 6pm 6.30pm 4. promises to be a great showcase of anime-centric culture and music BY ANANSA JACOB Anime overload TV3 3pm 4pm 5pm 5. My Love Guess Guess Guess Just in Singapore Hitman Reborn Dong Yi Family Harmony In the Eye of the Beholder Secret Garden Switched at Birth Jamie Oliver’s Food Evolution 11. But that’s not only unlikely. so have vanished. what’s come to light is enabling you to make pivotal decisions. Another uniquely Japanese feature. But this isn’t one of them. . whether personal or of a practical or professional nature. Visitors will be able to watch special performances by Ultraman characters and actors flown in from Japan.05pm 3. Bleach and One Piece.35pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 9pm 10pm MN 1am Cuci-Cuci Services Perangkap Maathangal Adutha Veedu White Lie The Building Blocks of Life American Dragon: Jake Long Makbul Shaolin Soccer Ops SPRM Enchanting Escapes > The Anime Festival Asia Malaysia. AFA director and event organiser SOZO executive director Shawn Chin said he wanted Malaysians to experience the fun of anime in their own backyard. Each concert ticket is bundled with a Festival+Stage ticket. everybody has advice to offer.05pm Pesona Kasih 11. Let them know you need them now.S Cinta Fitri Flying McCoy Real Life Adventures Reign of Fire FOX MOVIES.05pm J APANOPHILES in Malaysia are in for a huge treat in June when one of the biggest regional showcases involving anime-related culture and music hits our shores for the first time. TV1 KAMARIDUAN MOHD NOR/ THE SUN 11. At the Afamy launch at Federal Hotel in Kuala Lumpur. including top Japanese cosplayer Kaname . They will all be performing songs from some of today’s biggest anime series. at the festival.37pm 6. Aim for the best you can do now. moved into Taurus and this week it’s formed brilliant aspects with Mars and the uncompromisingly truthful Pluto. it’s that you intend to make them once and be done with it. the sooner they’ll be dealt with. deep down you know these aren’t just important.thesundaily.30am 2pm 3pm 4pm 5pm 6pm 7pm 8. events are making it clear that not only must you acknowledge their faults. Remember that when you think about ignoring other facts that seem equally unimportant. But by far the most anticipated event will be Super Anisong Genki Live.30pm 4. If you feel you’re abandoning your responsibility. Flow. June 20 – July 21 FEW things are more unsettling than sudden changes in plans you’ve struggled to get properly organised. Anime entrepreneurs and producers Mitsuhisa Ishikawa and Ishii Tomohiko will also be there to share some of their latest releases for 2012. but expect changes. to be held in June. Since these events are being triggered by this weekend’s eclipsed New Moon.30pm 7pm 9pm 9. some might need a serious rethink. 2012 www. including Good Smile Company and Bushiroad. Now.32pm Neighbourhood The Emperor’s Harem The Amazing Strategist Liu Bo Wen 4. with this weekend’s eclipse shaking things up. March 20 – April 18 SOMEBODY’S been holding back on you. and those seemingly unimportant facts are now significant. it’s unrealistic. The more swiftly they’re out in the open. which is about breaking up familiar patterns.30pm 2. A RM308 two-day VIP package and RM148 two-day standing package are also available. For the Super Anisong Genki Live evening concerts.37pm 7pm 7. Maon Kurosaki. May 20 – June 19 WHEN you first ignored certain facts.31pm 10. too. will also be available at Afamy. And because of that. For customers who want to access exclusive stage contents from anime celebrities. tickets are RM88 per day (free standing) and RM168 per day (VIP seating). But several arrangements are so dear to your heart that you won’t even hear criticism of them. perhaps.02pm My Family 7. you’d prefer that the arrangements you organise be lasting. they’re vital. Kalafina and Aimi.30pm 9. There will also be a Good Smile Racing zone for model cars.05am 12. while the Atelier Royale Butler Cafe will have handsome butlers catering to your every whim. which means even the simplest of plans is unlikely to last long. Now that you’re wrestling with an excess of exciting yet unsettling developments. Oct 23 – Nov 20 IT’S the rare Scorpio who’d plunge into any situation. Sea A. In your particular case.30pm All About Sports 8TV 10. It may be merely for moral support but they could also have useful advice to offer.30pm 1.05pm 6. you need to ensure your plans are sound. Mercury. one or two need to end. Lots of them. which is the first of two. While people often keep things to themselves because that information is not important. ‘butlers’ and Ultraman turned up at the launch of Afamy.30pm Fairytale 8.30pm 10. 1pm 1. the circumstances of those closet.O. July 22 – Aug 21 DURING times of challenge. the facts in question are becoming increasingly important. The Moe Moe Kyun Maid Cafe features cute.30pm 10pm 11. Feb 19 – March 19 ABANDONING tricky issues for others to deal with isn’t your style. with the winners representing Malaysia at the Regional Cosplay Championship at AFA in November. Afamy will be held on June 9 and 10 at the Putra World Trade Centre. And.” Chin added.30pm 7pm 9pm Jelajah Lagenda Steve’s Deadly 60 Orang Kita Camar Putih Dapur Remaja Farhat Hafazan Al Quran National Geographic Forum Perdana Ehwal Islam 10. These and any other decisions are being made during a period of change. 6. Aug 22 – Sept 21 YOU pride yourself on your objectivity. A new segment has also been created for Afamy – the Ultraman Zone – based on the iconic Japanese superhero.31pm My Family. While it’s true that changes in circumstances will continue until early June.my HOROSCOPE April 19 – May 19 LAST week the ideas planet. however.30pm 11pm 11. famous for his performances as characters in Final Fantasy VII. and take part in many activities and interactive games. The Anime Festival Asia Malaysia (Afamy) is an offshoot of the Anime Festival Asia (AFA). Dec 21 – Jan 19 IF there’s any problem with the way you’re approaching certain pivotal decisions. “We want to be the place where anime fans can gather alongside people who share the same interests and enjoy themselves. others assume all is well. At least explore offers. General festival tickets are priced at RM15 per day. what’s coming your way is too exciting to refuse.30pm The V Squad 9pm Bilik 7 10pm Unriddle 2 11pm Footprints in Asia 11.30pm 3. a two-night performance by top J-Pop artistes. Kuala Lumpur was the natural first choice. Jan 20 – Feb 18 EVERY sign will be influenced by this weekend’s eclipse.30pm 3.” Several exciting events have already been lined up for fans to get a complete anime experience.32pm Taiwan Tornado 6.30pm 2.15PM: After his construction engineer mother inadvertently woke an enormous fire-breathing beast from its centuries-long slumber 20 years ago. They can scout for exclusive anime trading cards and figurines from some of Japan’s top hobby brands. Visitors are also encouraged to attend the festival dressed as their favourite anime characters.30pm 8. so when the organisers decided to take the event around the region. bubbly maids who will serve you desserts and tea.24 FEATURE theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. Sept 22 – Oct 22 OBVIOUSLY now that you’ve reached the point at which discussions are about to turn into decisions. Make no commitments until you’re confident those decisions are based on solid facts. which has been held annually in Singapore since 2008 and has drawn tens of thousands of local and international visitors. who will also be promoting his Japanese-language education card series. it was because they were complicated and you felt they’d have little impact on your plans. The festival will be hosted by top anime blogger and Culture Japan host Danny Choo. Nov 21 – Dec 20 THERE are times when you can afford to be easygoing about details. are likely to be changed or challenged. Still. Malaysians make up the bulk of regional visitors to the event. Endless Love Mini Kaber Hero Kaber Zero Jom Terokai Perak Teganu Kita Metal Fight Beyblade Seindah Sakura 999 Mahabbah Amukan Pocong WWE International Smackdown NTV7 1. “Our purpose was to share the latest trends and content directly from Japan in one big event.45pm Desperate Housewives TV9 12. cosplay cafes.30pm 9. things have changed. friends or loved ones. You’ll be glad you did. discuss it with them. The odds are good they’d no idea how you felt and are happy to take over. whatever is going is paving the way for something better. judging by this week’s stunning planetary activity.30pm Nikita Heroman Bola Kampung SpongeBob SquarePants Anugerah Upin & Ipin Kochikame Pakar Kejelitaan Friday I’m in Love Semanis Kurma 9 Soalan S. A number of special guests will also make appearances. Quinn has to struggle to keep a small community alive in a world which has been scarred by the beast and its offspring. 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In women’s play. – AFP Federer blows past Berloq ROGER FEDERER braved dust storm conditions to blow past Argentine Carlos Berlocq 6-3. apparently hoping for a point. 11-4. bolstered by 16 winners in the first set and success on 12 of the last 15 points of the afternoon. was a guest of Matthew as the 31-yearold Englishman beat Max Lee of Hong Kong 11-8. 11-9.26 SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. 12 from New Zealand. 30. German 12th seed Angelique Kerber defeated American Vania King 6-3. 4-0. the highest ranked Indian ever. Matthew could earn a repeat of November’s World Open final against Greg Gaultier. Li will face the winner from New Zealand’s Marina Erakovic and South African Chanelle Scheepers. 7-5 while sixth seed Caroline Wozniacki fell to Spaniard Anabel Medina Garrigues. 6-4 and open his week with a second-round victory at the Rome Masters yesterday. The Spaniard has been mentally fragile after his troubles last week in Madrid. 6-1. 11-3. needing only 20 minutes before hurtling into the second round with a win over a surprise opponent in London yesterday. who beat Nicol in the US Open and led Australia to the world team title late last year. producing 44 winners and 38 unforced errors. She broke the seed sight times from 20 chances. Finally it’s back and I am really happy it is on again. with Dipika Pallikal’s recovery from two games down and 6-8 down in the third against Omney Abdel Kawy being the pick of them. China’s Li Na moved on to the fourth round as third seed Agnieszka Radwanska lost to only her third different opponent of the season.” said Jackson. who began with a sparkling 11-6. but Czech Petra Cetkovska caught Poland’s Radwanska with a 6-4. in a half of the draw which has seen the removal of one of the leading contenders. who endured a tough introduction to Nicol’s jet-propelled court coverage and early attacks. Federer beat Ferrero in a 2003 semifinal in Rome. the unseeded former world No. having dazzled everyone with her light-footed movement and near-perfect performances during the World Open in Rotterdam in November. 11-4. Maria Toor Pakay. The Rome pressure now shifts to five-time champion Rafael Nadal to post a victory in his opening match. 2012 > Nicol breezes through Pakistani opponent ICOL DAVID (pix) made a flying start to her bid to win back the British Open title. 6-1 and Italy’s Flavia Pennetta hammered Sloane Stephens of the United States 6-2. 6-3. “Once again it’s all that the players are gunning for. 7-5. Eighth seed Li beat Iveta Benesova with ease. There were four other stunning five-game women’s matches. In other results. and her compatriot Laura Massaro. the 16-year-old Egyptian. Pallikal. but now was unable to clinch two match points and lost 11-7. 6-11. The winner attacked and went for her shots on a windy day on the clay at the Foro Italico. the first Mexican to reach a World Open semifinal. Of Radwanska’s eight defeats in 2012. complaining about the blue clay and losing badly in the third round to Fernando Verdasco from a 5-3 lead in the final set. 11-3 win over Nicolas Mueller. The second of them involved a controversial “no let” decision when Brown N Light and easy appealed to the referee. 13-11 to Jaclyn Hawkes. the second-seeded Frenchman. 11-6 success suggested that she is again in the right frame of mind for a major success. recovered to win 8-11.” she said. The Swiss third seed will next play Spanish veteran Juan Carlos Ferrero. “It’s a huge bonus knowing the British Open is back. The king of clay insists that all is fine in the kingdom now that he’s left behind his Madrid bad memories. 11-6. champion here 11 years ago. a silver medalist in the 1988 Seoul Games. six have come from world number one Victoria Azarenka. Federer. I have an enormous respect for them and can’t understand why squash is not in the Olympics. Nicol seemed motivated by the fact that the British Open was returning after missing two years. and winner of titles in seven of his last 10 events dating to last November. But his test will come in Italy as he faces German Florian Mayer. with the Dane retiring injured trailing 6-4. the former world No. 9-11. His victory left Berloq 0-8 against top 20 opponents as the Swiss charged out by winning the first dozen points of the contest. The record-breaking world champion from Malaysia played as relentlessly as ever against the first Pakistan-born player ever to reach the main draw. the third seed. 11-5. Federer is on the hunt for his first Rome title after losing the 2003 and 2006 finals. 11-2. – AFP . 4-11. 3 from England who is returning after a year out and bone spur operation. while Sorona Cirstea of Romania beat Swede Sofia Arvidsson 6-3. left it late to actually decide on playing Rome. a top 30 Swiss player. “As an athlete myself. 11-5 against the 2010 World Open finalist from Egypt amidst an explosive atmosphere in which Pallikal was both warned and had a conduct penalty stroke awarded against her.” Nicol next plays Samantha Teran. US Open winner and fifth seed Samantha Stosur put out Italian Sara Errani 6-3. Jackson. Meanwhile former Olympic hurdler Colin Jackson backed squash’s bid for a place in the Olympic Games after watching world champion Nick Matthew make a good start to the defence of the men’s title. This is Kasey Brown. The world No. 4-6. 2 with four titles this season – including two of the first three Masters 1000 honours of 2012 – came good on his hope of playing in Rome the week after winning in difficult conditions on and off court on the controversial slick blue clay of Madrid. For the last three years it’s tough to know that such a prestigious event is not happening. with their most recent meeting the Madrid semifinals last weekend. Alison Waters. 6-1 loss. 6-2. He evidently got the right answer with his victory. the doyen of English commentators. However. PRIOR WARY OF WEST INDIES THREAT MATT PRIOR has insisted there is no way England will take the West Indies lightly when the teams meet for the first of a three-Test series at Lord’s today. as we saw quite clearly in the 2011 series.. work on the 12 stadiums have progressed on average by 34. flanked by Alan Curbishley and Peter Reid. tables and statistics have to be modified.” said Mitchell. However. “I swear you will never see B R I E F S WORLD CUP STADIUMS A CONCERN: FIFA FOOTBALL’S world governing body FIFA believes that six of 12 Brazilian stadiums that are to host the 2014 World Cup may not be ready in time. Kean and Allardyce fell out hugely after the latter was sacked by Venky’s. posted the video on their website yesterday. . Meanwhile. Kean. while England have lost four out of their last five Tests heading into Today’s match. producing some fantastic sporting action.” Several changes have been included in order to tidy up existing wording and define certain aspects more clearly but amongst the slightly more controversial additions are a revision of the penalty process. continue to create the closest. Was that a record? Had David Silva or Alex Song ended the season top of the assists charts? Did we realise that the late strikes at Swansea. A bottle of water went flying under our desk. has faced a huge public backlash in Blackburn since he was given the job. The 26-year-old Senegal international has been a sensation since his January arrival on Tyneside with a return of 13 goals in just 14 appearances. now manager at West Ham United and preparing for Saturday’s Championship playoff final with Blackpool. The studios. sending Health and Safety-conscious studio crew scurrying for mops and tissues lest we get electrocuted. because I still can’t believe it happened. Minutes earlier. England are top of the International Cricket Council (ICC) Test rankings. “I think if you get complacent or take things easy in Test cricket. in December 2010. voyeuristic at a time of heartbreak. and then had to sit and describe the proceedings to host Jeff Stelling on live television. at ‘the home of cricket’ five years ago. “There’s no room for that in our dressing room. despite the team being 13th in the Premier League at the time. The three associations will now begin exploring the detail with possible venues in Dublin. In an instant. complaining about the “bureaucracy and excessive politicisation” in the country while acknowledging President Dilma Rousseff’s determination to speed things up. Sir Alex Ferguson was magnanimous in defeat but must inwardly have been revisiting his famous “Football. as he tried to put Kun Aguero’s title-winning 94thminute strike into some sort of perspective just moments after the game had ended and Manchester City’s celebrations had begun. On the other side of the country. with repeated demonstrations calling for him to be sacked or to resign. It’s good to be in Europe next season. the tourists do boast the world’s No. “Nothing major has changed in the past few years and we are enthusiastic in our responsibility to keep developing the rules to challenge our world class athletes and create the best possible spectacle we can. “It’s a crazy finish for a crazy season. Manaus and Cuiaba have “medium risk” while Curitiba and Porto Alegre have “low risk”. seen as a dress rehearsal for the World Cup. utter the absolutely perfect.are down in seventh place.” he added. Allardyce. “We are the most competitive sailing series in the world and we hope that these changes. Wigan and of course the Etihad had lifted the season’s tally to a record-breaking 1. “The outlook for the 2013 Confederations Cup is even more critical. or international sport in general. the BRFC Action Group. Ireland are competing at Euro 2012 this summer. Stats come at us thick and fast. expects the alterations to have a positive effect on the Tour. ripping his lapel microphone off in the process. Curitiba and Sao Paulo. with a greater chance of being ready in time. who was in charge when Kean was a coach at Ewood Park. which ended in relegation before the final game of the season. after struggling against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Allardyce is said to be furious with the slur. He met his legal team just after lunchtime and the decision was made to begin proceedings. The Racing Rules have been amended in order to continue the positioning of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour (AWMRT) as the most compelling.. please. Swansea.” Life. Recife and Salvador could be added depending on progress on the work. only became aware of the YouTube video yesterday morning. He tells those fans that Rovers will definitely finish in the top 10 (for the season that has just finished. Tour Director of the Alpari World Match Racing Tour. Match Race Germany in Langenargen on May 23 – 28. We are in the Europa League and I thank God for the season I have had. – The Independent Rule changes confirmed for 2012 AWMRT SEVERAL rule changes have been confirmed for the 2012 Alpari World Match Racing Tour. Glasgow and Aberdeen. The paper cited a FIFA study on the stadium construction or renovation program pointing to various degrees “of risk” for arenas in Manaus. coming into effect at the first event of the season.SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. Interested countries now have 18 months to table an actual bid. most intense battles out on the water.” shrugged Roberto Mancini amidst chaotic postmatch scenes in Manchester. “Match racing has evolved to the point where we currently have a great set of rules. The Confederations Cup. The local newspaper has twice called for him to go and his appointment has been blamed for the huge disappointment of the current campaign. bloody Hell!” pronouncement. CELTIC COUSINS JOIN FORCES SCOTLAND. who have repeatedly called for his dismissal and the removal of Venky’s. duller. “This is a very tough series in its own right. he explained. However. I’m looking forward to playing in the Europa League. tends not to throw up lastminute winners. It was hard not to feel uncomfortable. Last night was the deadline for countries to register an interest in hosting the finals.” Cisse told the Evening Chronicle “We wanted to play in the Champions League. but we can be very happy with what we have achieved this season. he had been off his feet – much like the rest of the footballwatching world – as those breathtaking events unfolded at the Etihad Stadium. perhaps too quickly to process: staggeringly.who have won just two of 30 Tests since beating England in Jamaica in 2009 . when they were relegated). “Show me those goals [both stoppage time efforts] again. Elsewhere. it is just that real life is paler. nor have we had sad and barren lives. but Scotland have not qualified for a major finals since the 1998 World Cup in France. Turkey and Georgia are the other predicted bidders and as both countries have potentially serious flaws as prospective hosts. editorial decisions revisited. which would be the first in the United Kingdom for 24 years. helping the Magpies to an unexpected fifth-place Barclays Premier League finish. The release of the four-minute YouTube rant by Kean was calculated to cause maximum embarrassment as he fights for his job. In broadcasting terms. We were lucky enough to have satellite feeds of all the matches coming into our studio simultaneously and were witness to Michael Owen and the United substitutes preparing to strip off their tracksuits to reveal “Champions” T-shirts. Manchester City scored with their 43rd and 44th attempts on goal. But the FIfA report said challenges facing the Recife arena “will be hard to overcome”. We wanted to give them Champions League football.” England wicketkeeper Prior said at Lord’s yesterday. Belo Horizonte and Fortaleza. against the West Indies. Former City manager Reid found it all a bit too much. But the biggest concern is for the stadium in the northeastern city of Natal because of a “tight schedule” that left no “margin for problems”. We do not lack imagination. which would need 10 stadiums to host the 24-team finals. “between the three of us we have 120 years experience in the game of football and none of us have ever seen anything like that. Blackburn’s owners. 1-ranked batsman in Shivnarine Chanderpaul.” Prior has happy memories of Lord’s. But we will keep coming back for more because we all know that sport is always capable of throwing up drama like Sunday’s. also win the Carling Cup and places a £100 (RM500) bet with them. he has moved to reassure the club’s fans “I hope to continue scoring goals for Newcastle next season.4 percent. FIFA reports delays in three of the four venues for the competition. G anything like this ever again!” Maybe not. and contains less potential for unexpected delirium. Kean was secretly videoed by supporters during Blackburn’s trip to Hong Kong last summer. Porto Alegre. PAPISS CISSE RUBBISHES EXIT RUMOURS NEWCASTLE hotshot Papiss Cisse (pix below) has dismissed rumours that he could leave the club this summer. competitive and pioneering action on the water. Cuiaba. while the West Indies . As Nick Hornby pointed out in his essential football read.” he begged. the Celtic nations will stand a good chance should they decide to translate a declaration of interest into a concrete bid.” Mitchell. The report indicated that two years before the World Cup gets underway. all the while fumbling away as he tried to re-attach the aforementioned mic. Brasilia. said.” Folha said. will be held from June 15 to 30 next year in four confirmed cities: Rio de Janeiro. you get bitten pretty quickly. it is the potentially libellous comments about Allardyce. amongst others. Allardyce starts legal action against Kean SAM ALLARDYCE’S legal representatives have sent letters to Steve Kean and Blackburn Rovers following video footage that shows the club’s manager making disparaging remarks about his former colleague. Fever Pitch: “… be tolerant of those who describe a sporting moment as their best ever. it added. the daily Folha de Sao Paulo reported yesterday. on SKY TV’s Soccer Saturday – the bizarrely-enthralling show where we watch people watching football matches -. the last-minute winner is the ultimate stress test. 2012 27 Once in a lifetime drama by JOHN DYKES ORDON STRACHAN summed Sunday’s Barclays Premier League climax up perfectly when he said. The expanded finals require all three to bid together to meet the stadium criteria. having scored a century on his Test debut. however. with Newcastle last week having firmly denied reports that the former Freiburg frontman had issued a “come and get me” plea to Primera Division winners Real Madrid.Paul Merson leapt out of his seat. from which we broadcast to 650 million homes round the world are still ringing with Alan Parry’s screamed “Aguero!!!!!” which was echoed in a multitude of languages in more than 200 countries. That was our objective. Craig Mitchell.” He sat in our TV studio. It shows Kean questioning the operating methods and ability of the man who was manager before him at Blackburn. Cardiff. Wales and the Republic of Ireland are set to mount a joint bid to host Euro 2020.066. but I’m sorry for the supporters. The footage that has sparked the controversy was filmed months ago but its posting on Twitter has pushed it into the public domain. Wales have to go back to the World Cup of 1958. But we are still a little disappointed. Edinburgh. Aguero scored in Manchester and faces fell at the Stadium of Light. the UK audience heard Martin Tyler. that have seen legal proceedings begin. as well as match racing in general. Everything changes in an instant: video packages and highlights reflecting one result have to be altered to properly demonstrate another. limiting boat requests for redress and an amendment of proper course restrictions which it is hoped will allow the trailing boat increased chances to overtake – expected to get a mixed reaction amongst sailors and sailing aficionados alike. In February Drogba lost the Africa Cup of Nations final with Ivory Coast against Zambia.” Effenberg claimed Jupp Heynckes’ side. Athens Milan’s Revenge Two years after Liverpool’s astonishing comeback. Istanbul Game of Two Halves AC Milan lead after just 52 seconds and 3-0 at half time.my Robben always causes trouble by STEVE TONGUE I N THREE YEARS AT CHELSEA. this time to Bayern. “He’s not the best friend of all the players. are too reliant on wingers Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben and are “too predictable”. Four years ago Drogba was in the Chelsea side that lost on penalties in an all-England final in Moscow against Manchester United. his provocative explanation being: “I’ve gone there because Chelsea are on the rise.thesundaily. to seal third European title Barcelona 2 Manchester Utd 0 Stadio Olimpico. whose future with the Blues is unclear as he might be playing his last game for the club in Munich. like Petr Cech. Borussia Dortmund took Bayern’s title and have kept it this season. secured immediate popularity and by the end of the season he had a championship medal from a fourth different country and had been voted Germany’s Footballer of the Year. I have also had some great ones and I – and all my teammates – will give everything to make sure that this is a great one. They eventually paid £24 million (RM120m) and Robben was successful enough in another title-winning season. But with Damien Duff on the other flank. so I am just happy to be given another chance.” says Patrick Strasser. Last season. semi-final victors over 2011 champions Barcelona © GRAPHIC NEWS Pictures: Getty Images . Fußball Arena München. Effenberg captained Bayern the last time they won the competition in 2001 and he called on Schweinsteiger to rise to the occasion at the Allianz Arena. he became an important cog in Mourinho’s wheel when fit. but then scored the winning goal for Chelsea against Liverpool in the FA Cup final earlier this month. Real Madrid 2 Bayer Leverkusen 1 Hampden Park. for whom he will be a key player in a Champions’ League final against several of his old London teammates. “In January and February he had a lot of problems with (Bayern coach) Jupp Heynckes. Messi and Villa give Guardiola’s side third title in six years Bayern Munich v Chelsea Saturday May 19. He is. Saturday’s match will be the second Champions League final for the 34-year-old.28 SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. Munich Franck Ribery will be aiming to help Bayern to their fifth European Cup title on home turf against Chelsea. Smicer and Alonso help set up brilliant shootout victory Barcelona 2 Arsenal 1 Stade de France. “It is not good when you are always hoping that Ribery and Robben won’t get stopped. London Unstoppable Barcelona Barcelona dominate in repeat of 2009 final. a Dutch footballer. as he had for Chelsea. Drogba told reporters at the Chelsea Media Open Day ahead of the Champions League final in Munich against Bayern Munich that although he has had many disappointing moments in major finals. who were beaten to the Bundesliga title by Borussia Dortmund. “Maybe a turning point was the second leg of the Champions’ League semifinal against Madrid when Bayern were 2-0 down. For three games in a row Robben was sidelined and in his world he can never sit on the bench. after all. A win in this game would save their season. But somehow he was never quite galactico quality and when the more glamorous Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka were recruited a year later. it was time to move on again. “It was a bit surprising that the club wanted him to sign a new contract but he did last week.” he said. as Barcelona seal title with two goals in final 15 mins AC Milan 2 Liverpool 1 Olympic Stadium. “I have not only had disappointing moments in finals. the sides meet again – Milan coming out on top after two goals from Filippo Inzaghi Manchester Utd 1 6-5 penalties Chelsea 1 Luzhniki Stadium. So it was no surprise that controversy should follow Robben at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.” For Drogba the match against the four-time champions will be the third final in which he is involved this year. Andriy Shevchenko’s spot kick lands AC Milan their sixth European victory Porto 3-0 AS Monaco Arena AufSchalke. a journalist for Munich’s Abendzeitung. under whom he won two League titles. he did not make his debut until November. Robben was actually signed. regularly cutting inside on his left foot and achieving a notable tally for a wide player of 54 goals in 88 games – one of which knocked United out of the Champions’ League at Old Trafford two seasons ago. he now plays on the right. “Sooner or later. I am keen to see whether he can cope with the pace .” Unlike his Chelsea days. Madrid Inter’s Long Wait Jose Mourinho’s Inter side win their third European Cup. Manchester Italian Masterclass Typically tight all-Italian contest. “He took a penalty just one week after the Dortmund miss and scored it. “Given the quality Bayern have. Glasgow Zidane Wonder Goal Real back in final – this time a perfectly struck left-foot volley from world’s most expensive player. Arjen Robben was often a controversial figure. he has got to be there to lead this team. I feel that maybe Manchester United’s best years are now behind them.” he added. United win even match thanks to John Terry’s penalty slip. a year after winning UEFA Cup Liverpool 3 AC Milan 3 3-2 penalties Ataturk Stadium. secures trophy AC Milan 0 3-2 penalties Juventus 0 Old Trafford. and not the easiest one. familiar injury problems resurfaced – a hamstring problem from the World Cup not having been solved – and to Bayern’s annoyance he was unable to play until January. He wasn’t complaining directly but he was like a child who was promised an ice-cream and did not get it. Moscow English Supremacy First ever final between two English clubs. and first since 1965 – two goals from Diego Milito cap treble-winning season Source: UEFA Barcelona 3 Manchester Utd 1 Wembley Stadium. They are too predictable. Gelsenkirchen Mourinho Double Deco’s man-of-the-match performance helps Jose Mourinho’s side to a second European triumph. but the match ended prematurely for him as he was sent off in the second half of extra-time. but it is not that easy.” said Patrick Strasser. Zinedine Zidane. so that was causing problems. he is confident that Saturday’s game will be different. and by the end of his third and an FA Cup final win over United. Chelsea offered far more for him – presumably in wages too – and secured him for £12 million (RM60m). Scoring on debut. because he is very egocentric. Robben playing an unfortunate part in the key game of the season recently. Paris Barcelona’s Patience Arsenal’s Jens Lehmann becomes first player to see red in a European final. a certain physical frailty tending to obscure some fine wing-play and important goals. before the new manager arrived in the summer of 2004.he has got to play intelligently. until 2015. an FA Cup and a League Cup in the space of three years. they have got to be able to play other systems too. high on technical ability.” Effenberg told the Bild newspaper. Rome Mighty Barcelona United start brightly but are hit by 10th minute Eto’o strike and never recover – classy Barcelona go on to win sextuple of trophies in 2009 Schweiny must lead from the front BASTIAN SCHWEINSTEIGER must show leadership qualities in Champions League final says former Bayern Munich captain Former Bayern Munich captain Stefan Effenberg has challenged Schweinsteiger to prove his leadership qualities in Saturday’s Champions League final against Chelsea. he would have gone to Manchester United had they been prepared to pay the price. “We thought that we would get to the final against in the next year. 2012 www.” Identified closely at Chelsea with the mouldbreaking Jose Mourinho. who was giving some players a rest after the winter break. Recognised as one of the very best young talents in Holland for his work with Groningen and then PSV Eindhoven.” Injured in a pre-season friendly. His second season was probably his most effective as he adjusted to the physical demands of English football and Chelsea retained their title.” Internazionale 2 Bayern Munich 0 Bernabeu Stadium. and missed out on the climax to the season as well after taking a knock at Blackburn. Real Madrid were keen suitors. when with Bayern a goal down he missed a penalty and then a glorious late chance. “There is a lot of hope resting on his shoulders and he cannot buy any more time – he has got to work now. – The Independent Third final of the year will be great: Drog CHELSEA’S Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba is confident that his third final of the year will be a great one. as goals from Pedro. but goals from Gerrard. Just 10 weeks after taking over at Stamford Bridge following the sacking of Andre Villas-Boas.” Di Matteo said. But we have to go into it with the knowledge that we have the quality and experience to win it and that’s all. including Real Madrid. 4-1 (h) After extra time 1-0 (a). The communication was not right. “It is the biggest game of our life and I hope the players who step into others’ shoes want to make this club proud. Di Matteo agreed he faced the most challenging tactical assignment of his career.92 52% 4.25 16.” he said.” Di Matteo said.080 4-3 Leading in 60 matches (mins) 45 480 3-1 (44. Asked to comment on the suggestion that Bayern could be beaten if the attacking threat posed by Franck Ribery and Arjen Robben was nullified. “I was very happy that we beat Barcelona. And whatever comes afterwards – well. That’s why we have to go in and make sure we win it for them and for the club.” said Cahill. You come into training thinking ‘shall I train well because I don’t know if I’m going to be playing at the weekend?’. “We’ll play with less pressure. Munich HEAD-TO-HEAD Bayern 1 Chelsea 1 Goals 5 Goals 6 PREVIOUS MEETINGS 2005 Chelsea 4-2 Bayern Q-final 2005 Bayern 3-2 Chelsea Q-final Chelsea v German opposition 2. “To reach a Champions League final is very. “I’d be absolutely delighted to win the Champions League trophy for this club and I’d be very happy for the players. 2012 29 BAYERN MUNICH Coach Jupp Heynckes Captain Philipp Lahm European Cup record W81 D41 L39 European pedigree European Cup 1974-76. treats John Terry like he treats every other young player. “It’s a big game for the club and our players. you play and the manager leaves you out and you don’t know the reason. Everyone didn’t know what was happening. we have a manager that understands the game and played the game and speaks to everyone and treats everyone the same.” After a costly mistake in the home defeat by Liverpool. unlike the 2008 final against Manchester United when he sat and watched as the Moscow skies wept for Terry and Avram Grant. “We will take some reserve-team players on to the bench. It’s a massive game. which included an FA Cup victory as well as their passage to the Champions League final.3%) 6-0 3-4 Behind 142 (13. 7-0 (h) 2-0 (a).33 58% Total shots 155 Top scorer Mario Gomez 12 TEAM STATISTICS (per match) Goals scored Goals against Possession Corners Fouls Yellow cards SHOTS BREAKDOWN On target Wide 65 Pictures: Getty Images Top scorer Didier Drogba 5 90 SHOOTING BOOTS: Goals Gomez Drogba Robben 4 Players with 3 goals 3 1 5 12 PLAYMAKERS: Assists Ribery Torres Lampard Malouda 2 3 4 PLAYER STATISTICS ON TARGET: Shots 5 Gomez Robben Torres 10 10 29 BANNED: Missing final David Alaba. “And now we have a chance to put things right. and just figure out what to do. Infostrada Sports © GRAPHIC NEWS 7-3 Mata Essien Bosingwa Level 368 (34. “I had only just come into the club but after that I could see what the Champions’ League meant to the players. Things like this went through everyone’s head not just me.” Di Matteo is also reading little into Bayern’s 5-2 mauling by Borussia Dortmund in the German Cup final in Berlin last weekend. leaving Florent Malouda as Di Matteo’s only major concern. “I’m very relaxed about it. especially against a side who have beaten all seven of their visitors. Di Matteo has already overseen a string of notable performances including an unforgettable semifinal win over Barcelona. Di Matteo has yet to be given any assurances about his longterm future at Chelsea.” he said. Raul Meireles Branislav Ivanovic.” he said. “That’s the worst-case scenario.080 4-0 Leading in 60 matches (mins) 570 (52. “I think that’s what has brought all of us together.25 48% 83 Total shots 161 78 Coach Roberto Di Matteo Captain John Terry European Cup record W57 D33 L23 European pedigree European Cup runners-up 2008 Cup Winners’ Cup 1971. Of course. 2001 Bayern v English opposition CHELSEA Saturday May 19. “Sometimes you think: ‘Ah yes. I don’t think about myself. Di Matteo has shown vastly more confidence. And we probably scored the best goal as well.” – The Independent “It’s a big game for the club and our players. It’s a massive game.8%) 1-3 Gomez Drogba 5-0 Sturridge Malouda Lampard Cole Cahill Luiz Cech Source: UEFA. nor does the notion of facing a front four of Arjen Robben. So at the Cobham training ground early this week midfielder John Obi Mikel (pix) was grasping whatever positives he could from a far from ideal situation. Despite overseeing a rebound in Chelsea’s fortunes. 2-1 (h) 1-0 (h). Get to within one penalty kick of succeeding and your captain slips over and misses. just as it did when Roma lost the final in their own Olympic Stadium to Liverpool on penalties 28 years ago.” Di Matteo warned his players their experience following defeat against Manchester United in the Moscow 2008 final confirmed this may be their last opportunity for some time to land the one trophy to have eluded the club.83 56% 5. “I wasn’t annoyed (by the criticism). “We’ve worked so hard to reach this goal and have tried many many times to win it. have a chance to express ourselves and do what we want to do a bit better. Fußball Arena München. into the squad. Luiz Gustavo Holger Badstuber John Terry. but we’ve just tried to get the best out of our players and team to reach the final. Chelsea say no decision on a long-term successor to Villas-Boas will be taken until the season has ended. But the Italian believes that orchestrating a win over Bayern on their home ground on Saturday would represent his greatest triumph as he attempts to pull together a Chelsea side decimated by injuries and suspensions. 1-2 (a) Won 3-1 on pens 5-2 15 30 45 Lahm Boateng Tymoshchuk Schweinsteiger Kroos Robben Muller Ribery GOAL TIMES 3-2 Total minutes played 75 1.SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. make it to the final again with the two hot favourites out of contention and you find the game is somehow an away match. he believes.” He also dismissed criticism of Chelsea’s tactics in the semifinals. the FA Cup semifinal and the final. The conversation with Mikel also included the clearest explanation yet of what was wrong under the stewardship of Andre Villas-Boas and how his successor Roberto Di Matteo has brought a fractured squad back together again. “It was kind of difficult. But the pair reported no ill effects after yesterday’s session and declared themselves fit to play.3%) NY FATALISTS WITH A CHELSEA allegiance must wonder if the club are ever destined to become champions of Europe. as well as defenders Terry and Branislav Ivanovic. If we can grab a goal in the early stages it’s gonna be good but we have to make sure we don’t concede early. 2-2 (a) 3-0 15 30 ROUTE TO FINAL Topped Goup A with unbeaten home record – eliminated Manchester City Round of 16 Basel Quarter-finals Marseille Semi-finals Real Madrid 0-1 (a).1%) GOAL TIMES ET: 1-0 Total minutes 4-3 played 75 1. Mikel did not start another League game until Villas-Boas was sacked three months later. Franck Ribery and Mario Gomez without Terry and Ivanovic in defence. Given the circumstances. and we scored more goals than them.25 13. there’s always a reason for things that happen.1%) Behind 100 (9. This new spirit. represents Chelsea’s best hope of overcoming Bayern Munich on their own turf on Saturday.’ But it’s not that easy. Now things are more stable.” the 41year-old said. it’ll happen again. and Di Matteo insists he is happy to wait. “With all the problems that we have it’s certainly causing me a headache. “I just have a big drive and a big motivation to do something extraordinary for this club and that’s all I want to do. players and staff cannot afford to think like that.” he said. “Thankfully it’s healed quickly.” One victory in six Champions’ League away games this season does not bode well.08 0. Both have been sidelined with hamstring injuries and their failure to play any role in Sunday’s Premier League game with Blackburn raised doubts over whether they would make the trip to the Allianz Arena. very difficult. Hopefully I can get the training under my belt this week and be ready. This togetherness is what we were lacking before. Hopefully on the 19th if luck and God help us we will make that history. If we can pull off this win it’ll be the greatest achievement ever forthis club. 2-0 (h) 2-1 (h). Luiz ready to face Bayern ROBERTO DI MATTEO has been handed a significant lift ahead of Saturday’s Champions League final after Gary Cahill and David Luiz emerged unscathed after returning to training with the rest of the first-team squad yesterday. “This was my first session with the boys and it was good to get out here. 1998 Super Cup 1998 Won 7 Draw 2 Lost 4 Blues united > Mikel counts on unity to bring ultimate prize A Won 13 Draw 12 Lost 10 2.” – AFP Cahill. We’ve spent every day working on it and the work’s paid off. With Raul Meireles and Ramires suspended. Football is about playing football and scoring goals. I’ve been trying different options in training for different solutions just in case.” Malouda is a greater concern. playing him in both legs of the semifinal against Barcelona. 2001 UEFA Cup 1996 Cup Winners’ Cup 1967 Intercontinental Cup 1976. You need a good team.” – The Independent Di Matteo ready for toughest test ROBERTO DI MATTEO is bracing for the toughest managerial challenge of his career as he attempts to lead an injury and suspension-hit Chelsea to Champions League glory over Bayern Munich. Ramires Sturridge 9 PROBABLE LINE-UPS Neuer ROUTE TO FINAL Topped Goup E with unbeaten home record – eliminated Valencia Rafinha Round of 16 Napoli Quarter-finals Benfica Semi-finals Barcelona 1-3 (a).1 2. “They have lots of good players. “I ended last season well and at the start of this season I was one of the key players and there were a few rotations early on.” He also brushes off suggestions that failure to land the top job would be a bitter pill to swallow if Chelsea were successful on Saturday.” he said. when their 10 men managed to mount a stunning rearguard action against Barcelona in the Camp Nou before clinching a 3-2 aggregate win. “Things like that just went on and on. The hope in the Chelsea camp is that pressure will stifle the home side. “Now I’ve got three more sessions so I can kick on from here. “I understand from the neutral point of view that people may prefer other styles.” he said when asked what would happen if the injured players suffered setbacks.4%) Level 500 (46. But we have to go into it with the knowledge that we have the quality and experience to win it and that’s all. Now nobody is moaning or upset when they are left out.” The combination of injuries and suspensions means Di Matteo’s squad will be stretched and the interim first-team coach acknowledged the Chelsea bench might carry an unfamiliar look for a game of such stature. he replied: “I don’t think it’s as easy or as straightforward as that. Thomas Muller.00 0. from which at least four key performers will be missing.” . The France midfielder was withdrawn in the first half against Blackburn with a hamstring problem and Di Matteo admitted: “We still have to assess Flo and it’ll be touch and go for him to be available. he is therefore entitled to think that a place in the side this Saturday should be his. “To be able to win many titles and be competitive in the Champions League and reach the final you need more than two players.3 2. 253.724.20 9985 3574 9985 3497 3574 3497 3574 9985 3497 9985 3497 3574 RM 127. the Premier League recognised United’s domination of the competition’s 20-year history just as their supremacy is being challenged. one of football’s most successful managers. despite United’s despair after their final match at Sunderland the previous evening. – The Independent 16/05/12 3650/12 Kuantan OCC 101 870 248 2101 6870 0248 9207 1360 9214 5972 2017 1698 1843 8739 5461 0356 5779 6755 2016 7217 9451 8174 8676 8361 2996 5523 3703/12 16/05/12 3595 3021 3669 9037 6020 2028 8915 0701 1090 7550 3276 5762 7883 9534 1629 4218 5976 6796 0925 6809 3368 8643 3053 Ferguson meets Kagawa JAPAN international Shinji Kagawa (pix) revealed yesterday that he had met Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson. of that there is no doubt. the support of his staff. with ironic timing.my *First Come First Serve Basis *Terms & Conditions Apply pretty quickly. without disclosing what they discussed. “We move on and concentrate on other issues. “We clearly have a great set of players. This summer is likely to see more recruits in that mould.” The Football Association are looking into the matter after chairman David Bernstein also described the Argentinian’s actions as “silly”.42 . we pay good wages. I’m confident.” said Giggs.48 12 16 19 24 35 39 23. “He lives for the game. For more infomation. in his Carrington office at 7. Kagawa. the way he delegates. was voted the competition’s best player.635. I’ll carry on.97 583/11 925/12 09/06/2011 16/05/2012 8 6 7 5 0 8 8 5 2 5 7 9 5 8 9 6 7 5 0 7 5 0 5 0 9985 3574 3497 8463 7324 2874 4429 4334 6288 0534 8763 7958 8330 9267 3694 8277 4269 4135 5093 2337 3590 7367 2022 9 4 0 9 1 7 9 9 9 9 4 0 9 1 4 0 9 4 0 4 4 0 9 1 7 0 9 1 7 9 1 7 1 7 MU accept City’s apology MANCHESTER UNITED have accepted an apology from Manchester City over a controversial placard held up by Carlos Tevez during their title celebrations." the Scot said. playing with Ryan Giggs. City reacted quickly last night to express “sincerest apologies” while Tevez also spoke of his regret.” he said.21 3 9 14 21 36 47 8. Manchester City.367. – The Independent 2 10 25 28 31 36 21. had “good words” to say about him during two hours of talks in Manchester this week. was filmed on TV with a sign which read ‘RIP Fergie’ during his club’s open-top bus tour of Manchester city centre with the Barclays Premier League trophy. “We can invest in players.” Ferguson. who still has a year to run on his contract with the German champions and has stalled over signing an extension with the club. such as Nicolas Gaitan. Media and Sport Select Committee. That was the confident message from the club’s chief executive David Gill yesterday as. “As long as I’m enjoying it and still getting picked.274. but Gill stressed there was no great need to spend heavily. “I think it was rather silly.com. but we are not going to buy players just for the sake of it. The 23-year-old scored 17 goals this season in all competitions to help Dortmund secure a second consecutive Bundesliga title and win the domestic double for the first time in their 103-year history.” Kagawa told reporters on his return ahead of Japan’s friendly against Azerbaijan. please visit www. said Gill. in terms of what it said.53 3595 3595 3021 3021 3669 3669 3021 3669 3669 3595 3595 3021 108. Ferguson “had some good words. 2012 ANCHESTER UNITED will continue to compete with their neighbours. “The hunger and enthusiasm is there day in.30am on Monday as usual. formerly of United. and Borussia Dortmund’s Shinji Kagawa. City striker Tevez. He has made no secret of his desire to move to England with United tipped as front-runners to sign him. whether it be Alex Ferguson with his record. of Benfica. The banner. "Not in my lifetime.401. But Gill insisted that United’s commercial power would enable them to match City on the pitch.869.083. – AFP 8. day out. as rumours swirl that the Borussia Dortmund star is eyeing a move to the Premier League. said he wanted to “think hard” before deciding where his future lay. but City acted with commendable speed. United chief executive David Gill told Sky Sports News: “I think it’s right.” the player added when asked by journalists at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport about the meeting. I’m sure. It certainly wasn’t very sensible.magnum4d. “There are additions we are looking at in certain areas. We will only bring in players Alex believes will improve us.30 SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. emotions were running very high. or our history and heritage. silly thing to do. I always am with this manager.556.012. In the aftermath of Manchester City claiming their first title in 44 years. The club acted RM 6.” Gill said. the newly crowned champions. preferring to buy developing players for fees approaching £20m (RM100m) rather than elite performers at £30m (RM150m)-plus.662. who opted not to attend a function that had been arranged near Euston station. United have been relatively small net spenders in the market. presumably to facilitate his appearance.” Despite growing revenues since the Glazer takeover in 2005. was. 38. can outbid his club by paying “stupid money” and “silly salaries”.08 Magnum proudly sponsors “London The Summer Musical” @ Sunway Lagoon Ticket Redemption start from 26 May until 16 June 2012 @ ENE (Selangor) Sdn Bhd. transfers and contracts. may have referred to a remark by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson three years ago when asked if his side would ever be underdogs against City. The midfielder said the Scot. and will do so with Sir Alex Ferguson at the helm “for many more years”. M ‘Devils still the team to beat’ > Ferguson will keep dethroned United competitive. thought to have been passed onto the bus by a fan. more than anything else – an impetuous. who has played under Ferguson for every one of the 20 Premier League seasons. “We can compete because our revenues are in the top three in world football and they are growing significantly in commercial and media areas. with their petrodollar backing.982. there’ll be many more years. We’re already looking forward to next season.” said Gill. frankly.” Giggs. we also have all the assets of being Manchester United that can get players in. He’s on a rolling contact and with his enthusiasm. Manchester United can and will attract some of the best players in world football. we came second but we got 89 points. “It was good that I was able to meet him in person and talk. who collected on Ferguson’s behalf the award for being the best manager of the Premier League era. Ferguson has conceded that United’s rivals. Bernstein was asked about the incident by MPs on the Culture. insist Gill We are a very attractive club. “I think it was a very excitable moment. Bernstein said: “It looked to me rather silly. “We were only two or three minutes from retaining the title. He has one year left on his contract at United and beyond that it would not be hard to imagine a lucrative deal in China or in the MLS in America to see him through to retirement. As it turned out. told the same inquiry: “We’ve got a big worry with the European Championship. deduction of points or disqualification from the competition”. very seriously”. However.000 police officers and stewards in Poland and Ukraine will be given “anti-discrimination training to help them identify discriminatory chants. a game which followed a humiliating defeat for England against Northern Ireland in Belfast. Ferdinand turned his knee during the very first training session and spent the rest of the month on a pair of crutches. For Neville there is also the much wider perspective of all those false dawns of the Golden Generation.” Bernstein told the Culture. when Sven Goran Eriksson took over the team. and by his own account of it there will have been few more difficult than the FA ban. referees have the “power to abandon a match should racist behaviour occur in the stadium”. Ferdinand has remained a cornerstone of England managers’ teams when he has been fit. The most arresting of them is the possibility that after a club career that brought him eight Premier League titles and a Champions League medal. Last year the Bulgarian FA was fined €40. he does not play as many games as he once did. For all the problems that Ferdinand has had to face in his England career. since the start of 2001. right or wrong. Under measures which were actually introduced in 2009. England players have been on the receiving end of racist abuse during previous visits to eastern Europe. nor United’s – though Sir Bobby Charlton had no hesitation in inserting him at rightback in the all-time team running back to the Busby Babes – but there was never any shortage of evidence that he cared. Bernstein said yesterday that the FA had been “working on all sorts of contingency plans and preparing for all eventualities” should any England players be the subject of racial abuse at Euro 2012. having been installed as captain by Fabio Capello after John Terry lost the job over the Vanessa Perroncel episode. Bernstein raised the subject. Rio Ferdinand (pix) has surely now played his last game for England. the FA chairman. 2012 31 End of an era > Rio will have a few regrets by SAM WALLACE Y ANY MEASURE it has been a remarkable international career. Earlier this season Manchester City were fined €30. yesterday Bernstein told a Parliamentary inquiry into racism in football that Platini had assured him UEFA was taking the issue “very.00 B slowed him down to the extent that since the start of 2010 he has figured in just five of the 22 England internationals played. there are enough reasons to believe that Neville’s long-term appointment is rooted in something other than a craven reaction to the former Manchester United captain’s remarkable rise as one of the game’s most influential voices. If there is a single perception. There would be many of his generation who would have been delighted with the international career that Ferdinand has enjoyed. his form for West Ham tailed off towards the end of the season and manager Kevin Keegan decided to leave him out.000 because their players came out late for the second half against Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League. for example. to train with the Euro 96 squad. Yesterday the door closed on Euro 2012 too. symbols and behaviour. along with Frank Lampard. applied himself to the science of defence. Ferdinand has been an automatic first choice.000 after Ashley Young. Any player found guilty of abusing an opponent faces a minimum of a five-match ban. “They have given referees increased powers to deal with situations in matches. Two years ago he was preparing to lead England at the World Cup finals in South Africa. He made his debut as 19year-old in a friendly against Cameroon in 1997 and has captained the team on seven occasions. as a slight. David Bernstein. At the very least. there is certainly no strain in acknowledging an authentic attempt to get to the heart of the game in which he accumulated 85 caps. even in an age when the massaging of popular opinion has reached industrial levels. Otherwise. who is already on record with his belief that having the media onside is a key part of the job. to the point where he became . In the extreme. tearfully and unbidden. whatever has happened to him. Capello’s casual approach that he would speak to the player when he next bumped into him at Old Trafford was interpreted by Ferdinand. He was in the squad for the 1998 World Cup finals as a 19-year-old but never played a game. The breakdown could hardly have been more profound. It would have been more were it not for injury. may well be happy not to run the risk. He is by no means the player he was at his peak during the 2002 World Cup finals. has discussed the issue with UEFA president Michel Platini (caricature) and been promised that referees have “increased powers to deal with situations in matches”. – The Independent diluted by even the most casual review of his performance since putting aside his boots and taking up the microphone. It means that a player generally regarded as one of the most naturally talented defenders that English football has ever produced will only ever have represented his country at two major international tournaments. Ashley Cole and Theo Walcott were abused by the home support. Last week the UK’s senior policeman in charge of footballing matters. He was serving his eight-month Football Association ban from football for a missed drugs test during Euro 2004. In the case of Euro 2000. But in recent years injury has FA fears that England players will be racially abused at the Euros THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION has raised concerns with UEFA over the prospect of England players being racially abused during this summer’s European Championship. about the relentless failure of the England team it is that it has not been accompanied by any sense of overwhelming regret by the players involved. indifference will not come so easily in the shadow of Red Nev. when old clubmate David Beckham handed back. but the instinct is strong that it should be welcomed. he will be ideally placed to draw from the strength of one side of his experience and transfer at least some of it to the other. A few years later he witnessed the full wretched circle in the celebrity circus of BadenBaden. Only once did the Swede leave Ferdinand out of the side on the basis of form. that could result in the “awarding of a match by default. first watching from the touchline and then reluctantly accepting that he needed to go back to Britain for treatment. but it will be hard for him to shift the feeling he could have played on for longer. produced a report detailing 195 incidents of “racist and discriminatory behaviour” between September 2009 and March 2011. An early job description for him is that he will be Hodgson’s most acute reader of the mood of the England dressing room – a role that might have been weighed in gold two years ago on the high veldt when Fabio Capello and his players engaged in a cultural collision so catastrophic that the manager later confessed that when he looked out on to the field he didn’t recognise his own team. Encouragement to believe this is certainly not an emergency centreback of impressive reliability. – The Independent With Neville in camp. the end of his career has come abruptly. It was a rare occasion when Eriksson lost patience with his senior players and he made an example of Ferdinand. Ferdinand’s best moments for England came during the 2002 World Cup finals in Japan and South Korea when his partnership in the centre of defence with Sol Campbell was among the best in international football. palpably.SPORTS – AHEAD OF THE GAME theSun ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. The on-going problem with racism at football grounds in Poland and Ukraine was highlighted this year when the respected campaign group Never Again. He also. He has never been in a squad for a European Championship. That was €10. Assistant Chief Constable Andy Holt. with some justification. It is also telling that Ferdinand has started just three of the 19 games that England have played since he broke down in South Africa in a fairly innocuous challenge for the ball with Emile Heskey. – The Independent €1. A total of 81 caps is an impressive return for an England international but given Ferdinand’s status in the game he will surely have cause for regret at not reaching 100. warned of the possibility of England players and supporters being racially abused in Ukraine. When asked about Euro 2012. In the course of a meeting with Platini two weeks ago. Wayne Rooney spoke of the ineffable boredom of life in an isolated five-star prison. you were the new manager Roy Hodgson.000 more than Porto were fined for their fans racially abusing City players in the previous round. but having been left out of the Euro 2012 squad. That he made such demands on himself was evident enough in his performance – and now it is implicit in the criticism he often feels obliged to level at a new generation of defenders. Europe’s governing body says sanctions have been provided to deal with any incidents. against Austria in a World Cup qualifier in October 2005. It will be some time before we know the value of Neville’s appointment and any serious clue about where it might lead. which is linked to the UEFA-backed group Football Against Racism in Europe. the summer in which he joined Manchester United for £30m (RM150m) and was voted in Fifa’s team of the tournament.” UEFA insists it is taking steps to address the issue ahead of the tournament. But it was the manner in which he told Ferdinand – or rather did not tell him – that damaged the relationship irrevocably. Generally speaking. Neville may then have reflected on the time he made his own run for player power while organising a strike threat on behalf of Rio Ferdinand after he was dropped from the national team while awaiting a disciplinary hearing for failing to take a drugs test. understandably. and one that has survived more than its fair share of ups and downs. chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association. and one with England that he has already described as the last word in futility. His last cap came against Switzerland in the Euro 2012 qualifier in June last year. We can ask if. John Terry made not the least miscalculation of his life when he elected himself as the spokesman for a dressing room he could hardly have split more profoundly had he driven a stake into the middle of the floor. the World Cup finals of 2002 and 2006.00 = RM4. Capello had been concerned. would you rather have Red Nev at your side in the potential maelstrom of the European Championship – or lurking in a TV studio dreaming up the kind of line that hit David Luiz like an assassin’s bullet? Comparing the Chelsea defender’s work with the meanderings of a schoolboy let loose on a PlayStation was a barb Neville may never surpass in the rest of his broadcasting career but Hodgson. But it will come as a huge blow to a character who has had to deal with disappointments in the past. opening up a huge rift with the United player. where England will play their three group games. As with many of England’s most famous players.” say UEFA. As a 17-year-old he was regarded as such a prodigious talent that Terry Venables invited him. Whether you agree with everything he says or not. the England captaincy. For another four years he and Terry were the mainstay of the England defence. That was the only time he played for Capello after the then England manager took the captaincy away from him. UEFA has been criticised for its response to previous racist incidents. At the age of 33. Gordon Taylor. He was part of the Steve McClaren squad that did not qualify for Euro 2008. he has always had a habit of coming back from adversity. England’s players should not fall prey to indifference by JAMES LAWTON WE CAN be cynical as easily as we like over the fast-tracking of Gary Neville into the hierarchy of the England team. Rooney was aghast that fans should complain so loudly that night in Cape Town when England played so feebly against Algeria and Capello made his terrible confession that he had looked helplessly at the skeleton of a team he had tried to build. More than 80. telling him in front of the squad at the start of the week that he was out. about Ferdinand’s longterm fitness and the likelihood that he would be fit for this summer’s European Championship. which begins on 8 June. Media and Sport committee at Westminster. He was never England’s most accomplished player. He was playing in Munich when Michael Owen scored his hattrick and did his cartwheel and some of us were persuaded that Sven Goran Eriksson might just have found the lost chord of the English game. Jalan 51/217. the sports broadcaster Kelly Cates. 46050 Petaling Jaya. John Terry (Chelsea). Steven Gerrard (Liverpool). Leighton Baines (Everton). It is unclear at this stage if Dalglish will retain a role at the club. He replaced Roy Hodgson. – The Independent Roy unveil England Euro 2012 squad. with the club finishing eighth in the Premier League. Before being appointed manager last year. which they lost to Chelsea – but those runs would not appear to have been enough for the owners. Ruddy has been given special dispensation to miss England’s final warm-up game against Belgium on June 2 as it clashed with his planned wedding. Have a good summer x” Liverpool have endured a difficult season. After intense speculation about whether Hodgson would risk picking Ferdinand and Chelsea captain John Terry in the same squad. Frank Lampard. and will be looking for assurances that FSG has a plan. Scott Parker (Tottenham). Jordan Henderson (Liverpool). he was working behind the scenes with the youth academy and in an ambassadorial role. Stewart Downing and Jordan Henderson – arrivals that all cost in excess of £20m (RM100m). Andy Carroll (Liverpool). Without any announcement or public reassurances over his future. including Steven Gerrard. K 22 > Robben always causes trouble pg28 VETERAN defender Rio Ferdinand was the highest-profile casualty yesterday as England manager Roy Hodgson unveiled his squad for the European Championships. Frank Lampard (Chelsea). Earlier. Liverpool are yet to make an official statement. Meanwhile their points tally of 52 was their lowest since 1953-54 (assuming three points for a win in every season). The Scot flew back to Britain yesterday after travelling to Boston in the United States for talks with the club’s principal owner John W Henry and chairman Tom Werner. during which time he won the old First Division three times and the FA Cup twice. Ashley Cole (Chelsea). Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal). the owners of Liverpool. Phil Jagielka (Everton). Luis Suarez.” an FA spokesman said. Gareth Barry (Man City). He will rejoin the squad after his wedding.ON THURSDAY | MAY 17. Carroll is now a strong candidate to lead the attack in the Three Lions’ opening game against France in Donetsk on June 11. England will now train at Manchester City’s stadium next week before heading to Oslo on Friday. Joleon Lescott (Man City). Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 King sacked > Under pressure Dalglish leaves Liverpool managerial post ENNY DALGLISH has been sacked as manager of Liverpool. Daniel Sturridge (Chelsea). former Anfield boos Rafael Benitez and former England manager Fabio Capello. John Ruddy (Norwich). have invested heavily since taking over – sanctioning the signings of Andy Carroll. Terry is facing a July court case on allegations he racially abused Ferdinand’s younger brother Anton during Chelsea’s Premier League clash with Queens Park Rangers last October. Those same fans are unlikely to take this decision lightly. His daughter. Danny Welbeck (Man United). who questioned whether the defender could play two games in four days. and having fallen well short. In midfield Hodgson has opted for an experienced pool of players with several veterans of England’s ill-fated 2010 World Cup campaign in the frame. Adam Johnson (Manchester City). Among the contenders to replace Dalglish will be Wigan’s Roberto Martinez. who has accumulated 81 caps since making his debut in 1997. It would now seem that speculation has turned into reality. Phil Jones (Man United). James Milner (Man City). Dalglish returned to the role of manager under FSG’s ownership. Gary Cahill (Chelsea). although one is expected shortly. an announcement confirmed that it was the Manchester United centrehalf who had been left out. Thanks for all the lovely messages already. Terry had previously been tipped to miss out with Hodgson questioning whether the centrehalf could exist happily in the same squad as Ferdinand. > ‘Devils still the team to beat’ pg30 > End of an era pg31 . FSG have been conducting an array of cost cutting measures of late. Forwards: Wayne Rooney (Man United). 2012 theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6. with director of football Damien Comolli one of those recently shown the door. With Wayne Rooney suspended for England’s opening two Group D games. James Milner and Gareth Barry. has tweeted: “Devastated for Dad but incredibly proud of the job he’s done. speculation that Dalglish would leave the club has been mounting. the American owners have decided to act. 16 months after returning to the role. Meanwhile Norwich goalkeeper John Ruddy has also forced his way into the squad after an acclaimed season for the Canaries. Jermain Defoe (Tottenham). Qualification for the Champions League would have been seen as a minimum requirement if they are to recoup their investment. in January last year. Rio out However Ferdinand’s ability to withstand the rigours of a tournament campaign were called into doubt by his Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson last week. Defenders: Glen Johnson (Liverpool). – AFP ENGLAND EURO 2012 SQUAD Goalkeepers: Joe Hart (Man City). In total Dalglish won 35 of his 74 games in charge. accusations he strongly denies. Rob Green (West Ham). The Merseyside club did win the Carling Cup and reached the FA Cup final. Rooney’s Manchester United colleague Danny Welbeck and Tottenham’s Jermain Defoe complete the line-up of forwards. “He offered to cancel it but we told him there is no need to. The 61-year-old was the manager at Anfield between 1985 and 1991. Fenway Sports Group. Standby: Jack Butland (Birmingham). who is now the England manager. the FA confirmed Hodgson had scrapped plans to take England’s squad on a four-day training camp to Spain next week ahead of their May 26 friendly with Norway in Oslo. and his return last year was hugely popular among fans. Other notable selections yesterday saw Arsenal teenager Alex OxladeChamberlain earn his first senior call-up after a promising first season with the Premier League giants. their lowest position for 18 years. Stewart Downing (Liverpool). Midfielders: Theo Walcott (Arsenal). Ashley Young (Man United). Meanwhile Liverpool striker Andy Carroll’s reward for a strong finish to the season is a place among the pool of four strikers picked by Hodgson.