Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
PP423/01/2012(029578)
SPORTS
Devils’ playground
WORLD
Stock markets take a beating STEEP drop in bank shares drags US and European bourses down. Dow Jones closes down 519 points
100,000 copies daily
>> pg15
The Malay Mail
FREE
@malaymail
Asyraf assault outrage
40 sen for delivery per copy
http://www.mmail.com.my
ESPN’S Paul Parker believes Man United too strong for rest of the Premier League teams in exclusive interview
>> pg31
SHOCKING: A YouTube video grab of the youngster being mobbed and robbed by the rioters
Mohd Asyraf Haziq’s ‘sick’ treatment by London rioters sparks global scorn, even from the British PM
MALAYSIAN student Mohd Asyraf Haziq — the victim of sickening riot-robbery who had his jaw smashed before thugs rifled through his backpack — has become the subject of a shocking video that has come to embody the blatant lawlessness of riots sweeping England. The fury over London ‘samaritan’ robbery victim Asyraf has even elicited the outrage of British Prime Minister David Cameron who referenced the incident yesterday in a sombre statement discussing the societal malaise plaguing his country. “There are pockets of our society that are not just broken but frankly sick,” Cameron told reporters. “When we see children as young as 12 and 13 looting and laughing, when we see the disgusting sight of an injured young man with people pretending to help him while they are robbing him, it is clear that there are things that are badly wrong with our society.” Media worldwide have reported Asyraf ’s plight that was captured on video and uploaded by a witness onto YouTube where it has been viewed more than a million times. They opined it was one of the most arresting assaults of the UK riots that sparked wide-
By FRANKIE D’CRUZ frankie@mmail.com.my spread condemnation. The world was horrified when footage emerged of the first-year Kaplan Financial College accountancy student, in his first month in London, being robbed as blood poured from his mouth. The video of the attack on Asyraf went viral on Tuesday and has become one of the most unforgettable scenes from four days of unrest, media reports said. YouTube footage of the appalling scene drew extensive denunciation across social networking sites while wellwishers launched a Twitter campaign to do “something nice for Asyraf ” and to replace his stolen possessions. Pictures and a video of Asyraf recuperating at Royal London Hospital have been posted online by friends and people have been expressing support for him on Twitter using the hashtag #getwetllsoonashrafhaziq. A website, proclaiming
“I think it would be nice if we did something to show Asyraf and his family we are not scumbags”, has also been set up asking for suggestions for a gesture to be made for Asyraf once he leaves hospital. The website http://somethingniceforashraf.tumblr.com/ invites people to suggest what best to do for Asyraf such as: • Pay his student fees; • Pay for his family to come and visit him; • Buy him loads of flowers; • Go and sing outside the hospital;
• Organise a big party with him as guest of honour; • Buy the items that got nicked from him; and • Pay for his dental costs. The hype led a slew of British newspapers to contact The Malay Mail for permission to use to our exclusive pictures yesterday of Asyraf recuperating at the Royal London Hospital in their editions today. • More reports on pg2, 14 and 15
INNOCENT VICTIM: Asyraf recuperating from his ordeal that enraged the world
2
news
Selangor Islamic Department (Jais) to submit report on raid of a dinner at the Damansara Utama Methodist Church by next month — Selangor Menteri Besar Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Incident that moved the world
HAPLESS: Mohd Asyraf Haziq, obviously in distress, sits bleeding on the ground. He is ‘helped’ up by a gang and then robbed in broad daylight during riots in Barking. The gang promptly unzips his backpack and callously makes off with its contents. The robbers steal a hand phone and wallet from Asyraf’s rucksack as he stands heavily bleeding.
Broom army takes over the streets JUST hours after thugs left cars and buildings burning and streets littered with shopwindow glass, thousands of volunteers from across the UK have arrived with brooms to reclaim their streets, the Daily Mail reports. In London, Birmingham, Manchester and Wolverhampton, crowds gathered at meeting points publicised on the social networking website Twitter. Staff at eateries such as McDonalds and Marks and Spencers gave out free drinks to reward the earnest helpers.
Be on alert, Malaysians advised THERE are about 13,600 Malaysian students in the UK. The Malaysian High Commission in London has responded to the riots by advising Malaysians to "avoid high risk areas". A statement on its website says: "All Malaysians living in or visiting the United Kingdom are advised to exercise maximum alert and vigilance while they are in public places, especially in areas affected by the riots."
'They are the worst kind' BRITISH youths were branded "the most unpleasant and potentially violent young people in the world", renowned doctorwriter Anthony Daniels said, adding the British were in fear of arrogant, knife-wielding children.
lawless: Asyraf was cycling with a friend to break fast when hoodlums attacked them. His friend, Sheikh Muhammad Faris, 20, escaped but Asyraf was assaulted. He was on the floor when another group came along. They went to help him but emptied his rucksack instead. Asyraf’s bicycle was either taken or damaged.
Battered young man: Asyraf awaiting surgery on his broken jaw. It is thought he will have a metal plate fixed in after undergoing surgery.
LONDON
The kids aren’t alright When First World society meets Third World behaviour, nobody wins
AFTER a tremendous iftar at my uncle’s house and an hour-long session of prayer and giving thanks, I switched on the television to see that Tottenham — about an hour and a half away from where my family and I were — was in havoc and chaos. We watched in awe as the remains of something that was once a red double-decker bus roared with fire, as small figures, some hooded, some shielded, ran frantically around the streets of Tottenham high road. News reporters amidst the chaos struggled to keep London updated on the events as young boys vied for the attention of the cameras to give their "shout-outs" to friends watching the live coverage from their homes. It was as if they were having their fifteen minutes of fame and enjoying the moment. A few days before, I had a discussion with a friend over the terms "developing" and "developed" and their uses with reference to the differing situations of countries around the world. The dictionary’s definition of the latter suggests an advanced thus effective State. A State that is not evolving but evolved. Or, not progress-
The Malay Mail is published by Malay Mail Sdn Bhd, Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200, Petaling Jaya
By Nur Hannah Wan mmnews@mmail.com.my
ing but has progressed. By this definition, I have lived just over twenty years of my life, in a more advanced society. A society that is not only better but continues to improve and move forward. After the events that took place that Saturday in North London and later, throughout the UK, I may want to have another look at the above. What happened during the last few days has shocked everyone, with private citizens and politicians beginning to question if the mayhem is part of a society where everyone thinks themselves law-abiding and, for want of a better word, civilised. The fact is, Britain, with other countries, has been living under stringent times. The banks have gone bust and revived at taxpayers’ expense. The price of this is that there has to be cuts in spending, and as always, the poor bear the greatest brunt of the economic stringency. There have been cuts in education, welfare and housing. But the final question may be higher than economics. It may be a moral one. Do the children have to break into
EDITORIAL Tel : 03-74951288 Fax : 03-74951229 Email : mmnews@mmail.com.my
FRIGHTENING: The streets of Tottenham on Saturday — AFPpic
stores and steal goods in order to express their rage? Many, after seeing the carnage, have said being poor does not give one the freedom to break laws and destroy properties but this was what we see being replicated all over the UK in the last few days. The following days news reporting the aftermath revealed the riot had been the result of a "peaceful protest" outside a police station, with a handful of people demanding answers to why their friend, Mark Duggan, a father of four, had been shot and killed by police a few days earlier. Things had apparently gotten out of hand, leading to the riot we all watched on
ADVERTISING SALES Tel : 03-74951273 (Classifieds) / 03-74951262 (Display) Fax : 03-74951228 Email : ad@mmail.com.my
our screens. As news began to unfold on Sunday, we were all relieved to be home, far from the chaos and burning cars. Monday night showed us how wrong we were. As the riots spread to the South, East and West of London, people of many races and ages spoke out about their rage toward the looters who had destroyed their properties and stolen their goods. Arriving back from his holiday, the prime minster voiced his disgust at a group of boys caught on camera initially helping an injured boy before stealing items from his backpack. Police had a simple message:
“We are intent on bringing these people to justice. We have your face. We are coming for you.” As a resident of West London for all of my twenty-something years, and as disgusted as I am by the events that had taken place, I cannot say it surprises me. I’m sure most of the youth here will know of, if not be victim themselves, of the "mindless thugs" we speak of today. This irresponsible culture, be it a minority of children and adults too, has been an ongoing problem in London for a long time. I question where the passion to eradicate this problem was back then. It wasn’t too long ago that a grandfather stood outside a mosque in South London after prayers and was ambushed by two boys, now fifteen and sixteen, leading him to fall to the ground, hitting his head in front of his three-year-old granddaughter. He died as a result of his injuries and the boys were sentenced to eight years — a sentence they will most likely only serve half of. It is clear a lot more is needed here, particularly concerning young people, every step of the way. And fast.
TO CONTACT US: Newsdesk : 03-74951015 & 03-74951017 Classifieds : 03-74951273/03-74951282 General line : 03-74951288 Circulation : 03-74951068 Fax : 03-74951226
Between Jan 1 and Aug 3, the Home Ministry solved 96 per cent of the 867 complaints received from the public — Ministry secretary-general Tan Sri Mahmood Adam
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
PORT KLANG
Kampung to high seas Cargo of 25 stolen cars found in Israeli port, bound for Cyprus By G. PRAKASH prakash@mmail.com.my
Police and Customs have never seen Cyprus as a destination for stolen cars. Ten shipments of Honda City models were to have been shipped to Cyprus. Five shipments were inter-
▪
LARNACA PORT CYPRUS (pic below)
Final destination of the stolen cars.
▪ Dist
▪
km
304
Skeletal remains identified THE skeletal remains found in an abandoned orchard at Kampung Bumi Hijau, Kundang, Rawang, last Friday belongs to a foreigner. Gombak district police chief ACP Abdul Rahim Abdullah (pic) said the initial post-mortem conducted at Hospital Sungai Buloh indicated the skeleton belonged to a male Pakistani aged between 30 to 40. A pair of size nine shoes and worn-out jeans were also found near the skeleton. On Aug 5 at 5.30pm, a passer-by discovered the skeleton. Police believe the remains had been there for at least six months.
▪
HAIFA PORT, ISRAEL
Authorities tracked down the vessel ferrying the cars on July 4. The vessels were ordered to return to Port Klang.
The seized Honda City 0 km Models
Dist
anc e—
765
PORT KLANG
Five containers each with five Honda City stolen from three states were shipped out to Cyprus on June 24.
smuggled out from the country by the same syndicate will take them to several new destinations. The Kampung Black Water car theft syndicate has been
active since June last year and the full extent of its involvement in vehicle thefts in the country is being looked into. The 25 Honda City cars seized were part of 462 vehicles
Frequent but random checks THE failure to scan the five containers laden with 25 stolen cars has raised questions over the operating procedures of the Customs Department. Asked why none of the containers were scanned before they left Westport, Port Klang,
cepted in Haifa Port, Israel. The syndicate had earlier concentrated on shipping the cars to Dubai, Hong Kong, and Thailand. Interpol has been roped in to gauge the extent of the syndicate's global network.
▪
e— anc
A CYPRUS connection has emerged in the Kampung Black Water international stolen car saga following the recent seizure of another 25 cars, all Honda City models, passed off in five shipping containers as furniture. The Malaysian Royal Customs Department and a shipping company tracked down a ship ferrying the cars, all less than a year old, on July 6 in Haifa Port, Israel. The vessel was enroute to Port Larnaca, Cyprus. Cyprus, as a destination for stolen cars, had never been on the radar of Malaysian authorities and the hunt for the mastermind has been stepped up to zero in on the global network of the syndicate. Interpol assistance has been sought to help penetrate the racket in certain countries. Malaysian Customs and police now believe investigations to trace and recover the remaining 337 vehicles
KG BLACK WATER'S CYPRUS CONNECTION
Selangor Customs director Datuk Aziz Yacub said scans are frequently done but at random and depended on information received. "If we check every container, shipping will be delayed and Customs will be blamed
for creating a backlog." He said between 4,500 and 5,000 containers laden with goods for export pass through Customs on a daily basis. In a month, about 10,000 containers have goods declared as furniture for export.
worth RM49 million that had been shipped to various countries in June after being stored in a warehouse in Kampung Black Water, Jalan KlangBanting.
The Customs Department had raided the warehouse on June 30 and recovered 98 cars that were awaiting shipment. Four suspects were arrested. Follow-up investigations took the authorities to Haifa Port. Selangor Customs director Datuk Aziz Yacub said the 25 stolen cars that were declared as furniture left Port Klang on June 24. "We detected the ship in Haifa Port and ordered it to return to Malaysia. Images of cars were detected when all the containers were scanned upon arrival at Westport on July 27. "The tyres were all taken off and the cars were kept in a hanging position inside the containers so that one container could fit five cars." He said initial investigations by both Customs and police revealed the freight forwarding company involved had planned to export 10 containers on June 24. Aziz said investigations were underway to identify the buyers of the stolen cars in Cyprus.
Missing since June THE 25 Honda City cars that were recovered from a ship enroute to Cyprus had been reported missing in June. South Klang district police chief ACP Mohamad Md Yusuf, said 20 of the cases were in Selangor, three in Kuala Lumpur
and one case each in Negri Sembilan and Malacca. He said the syndicate used various methods to break into the vehicles which were all less than a year old. Police have arrested a 35-year-old suspect and are looking for two others.
AMPANG: TAMAN KOSAS MURDERS
Parents did not know woman married a Sabahan in 2005
THE parents of Suramlah Nidin, the Indonesian woman whose dismembered body was found along with that of a toddler believed to be her son at an abandoned unit on the fifth floor of the Chryssa Block, Astaria Apartments in Taman Kosas last week, did not know that their daughter married a Philippines-born Sabahan in 2005. The Indonesian Embassy’s Infor mat ion, S o ci a l and Cultural Affairs counsellor Suryana Sastradiredja, when contacted by The Malay Mail yesterday, said Suramlah's parents had been searching for her after she was deported back to Indonesia three years ago.
By AIZAT SHARIF aizat@mmail.com.my
“In 2008, she was deported back after being arrested for not having proper identity documents. However, she never went home to her family at Bundowoso in East Java,” said Suryana. "In December 2009, the family received a photo of Suramlah and her son via postal mail, indicating she was married and again residing in Malaysia. However, the family did not know she had married a Philippines-born Sabahan in 2005. We plan to interview her husband to get more details about her and their marriage."
Wh i l e t h e In d on e s i an Embassy is certain the murdered Indonesian woman was Suramlah, Selangor CID chief SAC Mohd Adnan Abdullah declined to confirm the identity of the murdered woman, including a picture of the alleged victim which was published in an English daily yesterday. “We have yet to confirm the identities of the two victims as we are awaiting results of the DNA tests on the bodies,” said Mohd Adnan, adding that no identity documents were found on the victims. On Aug 3, 15 dismembered body parts of a woman and the intact remains of a boy were found stuffed in five plastic
bags at the apartment. Police made the horrifying discovery after they were alerted by residents due to the unbearable stench emanating from the unit. The woman was decapitated and her head was not among the body parts found in four plastic bags hanging from sharp plaster ceiling splinters. Also missing were her torso and right leg. The child's intact body was found in a plastic bag forced into a gaping hole in the plaster ceiling of the bathroom. Based on the state of decomposition, police believe the bodies had been there for about a week.
news
3
What has been going on THE Kampung Black Water car theft syndicates had stolen 560 luxury vehicles during the year-long spree in various parts of the country. Police believe 462 cars worth RM49 million had been shipped to several destinations including Dubai, Hong Kong and Thailand to date. The stolen luxury cars include Honda City, Honda CRV, Honda Accord, Toyota Hilux, Toyota Rush and Toyota Fortuner models. It was established that Honda and Toyota models were targeted due to high demand. The syndicate's activities were halted on June 29 when Selangor police raided a warehouse in Kampung Black Water in Jalan Klang-Banting and seized 98 cars. Four suspects, aged between 20 and 40 were arrested. Besides being in charge of the warehouse, the suspects were also believed to be responsible for the placement of the cars in shipping containers. Buka Puasa/Imsak Times IMSAK Ramadan 11, MAGHRIB 1432H (TODAY) (TOMORROW)
WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya
7:28pm
5:43am
SELANGOR Zone I: Daerah Gombak, Petaling Jaya/ Shah Alam, Hulu Selangor, Hulu Langat and Sepang Zone II: Daerah Klang, Kuala Langat, Kuala Selangor, and Sabak Bernam
7:28pm
5:43am
7:30pm
5:44am
News Alert CELCOM subscribers! Be the first to get The Malay Mail's news updates via SMS! You will get a minimum of five SMSes daily by following these simple steps: Weekly subscription: Type ON<space>MMAILW and send to 23999 Monthly subscription: Type ON<space>MMAIL and send to 23999 ● Weekly: RM1.50, Monthly: RM5.00
Weather Update PLANNING a day out? Don't get caught out. Keeping up-to-date with the latest weather conditions is vital. Subscribe to receive the daily weather forecast for Klang Valley areas direct to your mobile phone via SMS! All you need to do is just type: ON<space>MM<space>WEATHER and send to 33333 Sample: ON MM WEATHER ● RM0.50/SMS. Normal telco charges apply.
4
news
Demi Moore top of list HIT comedy Two and a Half Men is turning into a family affair with Demi Moore rumoured to be guest starring alongside husband Ashton Kutcher, Showbiz Spy reports. The Striptease beauty is top of the list of a number of special guests for the revamped show, which sees Kutcher taking over from fired actor Charlie Sheen. “Demi is set to play a love interest in the show but not of Ashton's,” an insider said. “Ashton loves the idea and both he and Demi are excited at the prospect of working together.”
'Dirty Dancing' remake DIRTY Dancing has become the latest '80s movie classic to be remade for the big screen, the Herald Sun reports. Lionsgate confirmed yesterday it was remaking the 1987 movie, which starred Jennifer Grey, a teen who falls for her holiday camp dance instructor, Patrick Swayze. Kenny Ortega, who choreographed the original movie was set to direct and produce the remake. Other movie classics recently rebooted include Tron, Footloose and Conan the Barbarian.
Malaysia Islamic Development Department (Jakim) is targeting full use of the e-Halal system in all states by next year. -- Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Dr Mashitah Ibrahim PETALING JAYA
'Smart Start' Making this pre-marital course mandatory receives the thumbs-up
WHILE making the Smart Start pre-marital courses mandatory will help some couples, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and experts feel that ultimately, whether a marriage works depends on each couple. Tenaganita co-founder and director Irene Fernandez said the course should also teach couples how to cope with stress from the workplace. "From our experience dealing with couples over the years, a major reason for the increasing divorce rates is that the husband or wife or both are unable to cope with work-related stress and letting that affect their family and home life," said Fernandez when commenting on the announcement by Women, Family and Community Development Deputy Minister Heng Seai Kie, that the Smart Start course may
By CECILIA VICTOR cecilia@mmail.com.my
be made compulsory for nonMuslim couples too. "The Ministry can go ahead and make this course compulsory as it will help instill in couples the need for constant communication with each other and how to work things out when problems crop up. Couples whose marriages succeed are those who are able to balance work and family life and avoid being abusive or unfaithful." Women's Aid Organisation (WAO) president Ivy Josiah welcomed the move as it provides guidance for couples to be better prepared for married life. "In the long-term, the course will benefit many couples as it makes them more aware of their individual responsibili-
Course also for 'newly-married' couples THE Smart Start programme for young couples intending to get married is a two-day course available in English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. The Women, Family and
Community Development Ministry is considering making the course compulsory as it is aimed at guiding couples on varied aspects of marriage and parenting as well as providing psycho-
KUALA LUMPUR
THE public generally feel that making the Smart Start course mandatory could well benefit young couples, The Malay Mail found in a random street poll. Administrative executive S. Kala, 25, who will be getting married in December, said: "I think such a course could benefit many couples to have a better understanding of their responsibilities to each other and this could reduce the number of divorces in the long-term." M. Parimala, a divorcee who remarried, said: "My first marriage broke down due to lack of communication that resulted in heated arugments. I have learnt from those mistakes and this has benefitted my second marriage. Paying RM50 for the two-day Smart Start is cheaper than those conducted by the private sector or paying legal fees for divorces." Insurance company staff C. Vijay, 30, married for a decade and blessed with two children, said: "My wife and I make sure we communicate constantly on every situation that crops up, so not every couple needs such a course. Still, even if the courses achieve a 50 per cent success rate, that's helping one in every two couples." R. Naveenesh, 30, has yet
Vijay: My wife and I make sure we communicate
Naveenesh: Couples need to work things out
to decide on settling down despite having a steady relationship with his girlfriend, believes that ultimately it depends on the two individuals in a relationship to work things out.
Thunderstorm destroys 145 homes
Two sought in RM7.5 mil cheating case POLICE are seeking public help to trace two witnesses in a cheating case involving Sempurna Cekap Sdn Bhd shares worth RM7.5 million. The Federal police commercial crime department want the two men to testify in court on Aug 16 and 19 on the case that had been pending since 1995. The men are identified as Abdul Karim s/o V. P. P. Abdullah, 55, whose last-known address
logical social support for couples to better appreciate married life and a harmonious home setting. The programme is also open to couples who are in their first five years of marriage.
Positive nod from the public
SUNGAI PETANI
India targeted for terrorism INTELLIGENCE officials have suggested that al-Qaeda and one of its dreaded terrorists Ilyas Kashmiri were planning to target India. "There are some intelligence inputs, though not specifically, regarding a plan to target India by al-Qaeda and Ilyas Kashmiri, an al-Qaeda-HUJI operative and his group," Minister of State for Home Jitendra Singh told parliament, the Indian Express reports. The minister said the government was committed to combat terrorism and extremism in all its forms as no cause, genuine or imagined, can justify terrorism or violence.
ties and as parents when they have children," said Josiah. Psychiatrist Tan Sri Dr M. Mahadevan said from his experience counseling couples, break-ups are usually due to incompatibility. "Making this course compulsory is well intended, but many couples discover whether they can get along only after they are married," he said. "I always tell couples it takes two to tango, but if they are incompatible, nothing can save their marriage." Relationship counselor S. Peter said that over the years he has provided advice to couples prior to them getting married. "To sustain a good marriage, communication is everything. Smart Start will help at the beginning, but most couples are not perfect and some will need guidance as their married life progresses."
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 August, 2011
was 25-E, Jalan Loke Yew, and Kalyanasundram s/o A. S. Rajasundram, 56, whose lastknown address was A11-06, Blok A, Tingkat 11, Palm Court Condo, Brickfields. Those with information of the men’s whereabouts can contact investigation officer ASP Nordin Md Nor at 013-2299099 or 03-5261 6386 and 03-2616 3999, or any police station.
AT least 145 houses in Taman Bandar Baru and Sungai Lalang were damaged as a thunderstorm wreaked havoc here at about 2.30pm today. Habsah Ahmad, 57, one of the victims whose house was severely damaged, said the thunderstorm started at about 2.30pm after a slight drizzle. "All of us were at home when it started. I heard noises that sounded like a strong wind blowing and even before realising what was happening, I saw my roof being ripped off. "Once the roof disappeared, my hall, bed, clothes, and almost everything in the house was wet," she told Bernama when met at her home.
Another victim, Norizah Saad, 53, said she was in Alor Star when the storm hit and estimated her losses at RM30,000. Asmida Shabidi, 20, said the wind speed resembled a typhoon and that it was a very frightening experience but was grateful that her house was not damaged. Meanwhile, Saharudin Hamid, a Sungai Petani Municipality councillor, said he had urged all the victims to lodge police reports as a requirement for the Welfare Department to provide assistance. He added that although more than 145 houses were believed to have been damaged, only 145 had
come forward to lodge police reports. Saharudin said four families whose houses were severely damaged, would temporarily seek shelter at a hall in the Taman Bandar Baru mosque. In Baling, a senior citizen and another family of five, cheated death when a tree fell on their houses during a thunderstorm that struck at 4pm, causing extensive damage to both houses. Siah Yunus, 94, was alone in her house at Kampung Carok Sik, Mukim Pulai, when the storm struck while Rosila Ahmad, 32, said she quickly gathered her four children and ran out when the petai tree fell on her house. — BERNAMA
ThursDay 11 August, 2011
the malay mail
5
6
news
At least RM1 million is needed to ease starvation faced by the people of Somalia, which is becoming more critical each day â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Global Peace Malaysia (GPM) president Mohamad Raimi Abdul Rahim PETALING JAYA
PETALING JAYA
No freeze order Renewal of maids' work permit as usual
THERE will be no freeze on work permit renewal of foreign maids in the country. This was decided at a meeting which included Home Ministry director-general Tan Sri Mahmood Adam and deputy director-general Datuk Alwi Ibrahim yesterday evening. A ministry source confirmed this with The Malay Mail after we learned there was a possibility of the Immigration Department freezing working permits of foreign maids in Malaysia until the government's 6P amnesty programme ends. It was learned that orders on the freeze were apparently given to immigration offices without approval of the Home Ministry.
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
By ASRUL HADI ABDULLAH SANI asrul@mmail.com.my
Earlier, The Paper That Cares was made to understand if such a freeze were to be imposed, it would mean those whose work permit had expired, would automatically be considered illegals and would have to join the long line of other illegal immigrants to be registered under the amnesty exercise. Currently, the 250,000 foreign maids in the country will be automatically registered under the biometric system when their employers renew their work permits. Standing for registration, legalisation, amnesty, supervision,
enforcement and deportation, the 6P programme was described as a "total package solution" to various social, criminal and financial problems related to illegal immigrants. The programme, started on Aug 1, is being conducted by 336 government-appointed agents at all 198 Immigration offices in the peninsular. However, allegations of corruption in the amnesty exercise have brought it under criticism and the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is investigating agents together with immigration officials for abusing
the process. We reported yesterday of agents charging more than the RM35 administrative charge set by the government to register illegal immigrants. They can be charged under Section 16 of the MACC Act 2009 for accepting gratification. Under the programme, after being legalised, foreigners can either return to their home country or secure a job here. To obtain work, they need an employer. Once employed, they need a work permit. It was reported the programme would end on Dec 31. Enforcement and deportation will be continuous throughout the duration of the programme.
Yahoo! and PropertyGuru team up LEADING digital media company Yahoo! Inc and PropertyGuru, Southeast Asia's leading realestate website, have announced a partnership that will see the two publishers deliver premium property-related content to over 17 million Unique Visitors across Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. In this first-of-its kind content partnership, PropertyGuru will deliver market intelligence, real estate news, expert views, interviews and articles, as well as related content such as real estate directories, upcoming events and mortgage guides on Yahoo! to help users in each of the four countries with their property decisions. The partnership will drive additional traffic to both sites, as well as increase brand awareness for PropertyGuru in core property markets of the region. The agreement will allow Yahoo! to monetise allocated ad inventories on PropertyGurus network. Commenting on the collabo-
By MARHALIM ABAS mabas@mmail.com.my
ration, Yahoo! Southeast Asia managing editor Alan Soon said: "PropertyGuru's content, combined with Yahoo!'s regional audience and advanced targeting capabilities, will deliver the best experience for online audiences. The partnership also strengthens Yahoo!'s commitment to bring local relevant editorial content to our users and complements our news offering on Yahoo! News and Yahoo! Finance, the two leading sites in Singapore, with expert articles in the real-estate field." PropertyGuru group CEO Steve Melhuish said the partnership is a win-win opportunity for both parties offering readers the chance to make informed decisions about their more important investments. "Property-related news, market intelligence, trends, tips and techniques of investment, are closely-watched topics in the four markets."
ThursDay 11 August, 2011
the malay mail
7
8
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
hotline@mmail.com.my
tel:03-7495 1000/1001/1002 tel:019-261 4948 (after 9pm)
your right to be heard ● ● ● ●
Complainants have to submit their personal particulars and provide a detailed account of their complaint. Complainants have to first file their complaints with the respective parties before contacting Hotline. Complaints referred by Hotline to the relevant parties would be published if there is no response in seven days. After a complaint has been resolved, the complainant cannot demand non-publication of the matter.
By IKRAM ISMAIL and T.K. LETCHUMY TAMBOO
Residents protest RA against conversion of bungalow lots to commercial buildings there has been no official letter from City Hall to the residents to notify them of this development. GUNA says the RA got wind of the opportunity to object to the development only when the project plan was advertised in the newspapers on April 12. The notice sought any objections to the project to be submitted within four weeks and the RA submitted its objections to City Hall on April 18. So far, there has been no official reply or response. GUNA says the RA invited City Hall and KL mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail to visit the area to check out their objections on June 13. "We spoke to the mayor about our concerns. He confirmed with us this area would not be turned into a commercial centre as the freehold land is reserved for housing,"
SINCE 2001, the Titiwangsa Residents' Association (RA) at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa has sent more than 10 letters to Kuala Lumpur City Hall, objecting against houses in the residential area being converted into commercial buildings. And while previously the single-storey bungalows were renovated to carry out business activities, the RA is worked up now as City Hall has allowed two adjoining bungalows to be demolished to make way for a multi-storey commercial building. "We were shocked to learn the houses on Lots 21 and 22 in Section 86A, Jalan Persiaran Titiwangsa 3, will be developed into a six-storey office block with a basement carpark," said RA president DATUK GUNA SITTAMPALAM. To make matters worse,
aka
Auto Tulin Sdn Bhd
Persiaran Titiwangsa 3
Lot 22
Institut Aminuddin Baki Kementerian Pendidikan Malaysia
Sekolah Kebangsaan Jalan Kuantan 2 Education (KPM) Ministry 1 Malaysia Hostel
Jalan Kuantan
ent h ouse Resid
Jalan Pahang
Lot 21
Bungalows to make way for six-storey office block with basement carpark
Jala
nM
ent
Shell
Jalan
Paha ng
b
FROM RESIDENTIAL TO COMMERCIAL
CONCERNED: Members of the RA and residents, led by Guna (with tie), voicing their objections against the proposed office project — Pic: SHARUL HAFIZ ZAM
he says. "On July 7, City Hall deputy director for socio-economic development Datuk Mohd Amin Noordin Abdul Azizi also came at our invitation and he concurred with the mayor on the need to preserve the area for residential use only and that no new commercial building would be allowed." Despite the assurances, the RA was shocked to learn the proposed office block has been granted approval by City Hall to proceed and work will start on Monday. "We heard of this from the bungalow owner but we have been unable to verify this claim with City Hall. Also, no signboard has been put up to
provide details of the development." RATHIKA JEYARAJASINGAM, who lives next to the proposed development site, says some preparatory work began about one month ago. "The work was done after sunset and it looks like much of the fittings within the bungalows have been removed. How can they do this if no approval has been received from City Hall? Can they proceed illegally?" This latest development has angered the residents because several other buildings have been constructed despite their objections. Among them are a fourstorey office and hostel, ex-
tended from an Education Ministry building nearby, eating into reserved bungalow lots behind her house, says RATHIKA. Another resident, WAN HALIM WAN AHMAD, 38, says the area used to be a green lung not far from the city. "But now, with more commercial buildings coming up, the greenery has gone. City Hall should protect this area." ● KL MAYOR Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail says Lots 21 and 22 and another lot in the area are earmarked for commercial purposes under the Greater KL Plan. This was done some time ago, and a committee was set
up to review any objections about four years ago. "When the proposal to build the office building was submitted to us by Kumpulan Perubatan Johor Sdn Bhd (KPJ), our technical committee had no objection against it. "But, the approval is subject to the views of residents in the area as we won't know what they have to say until we get their feedback. Since we know it now, we will call the residents for a session soon to hear out their objections." After this, a decision on whether the project will be allowed to proceed will be made by City Hall's technical committee
Name error on Election Commission website LIKE others hoping to vote for the first time, TOCK JING YAN, of Taman Desa Bakti in Teluk Intan, Perak, was eager to register with the Election Commission (EC). However, she never thought there could be a mistake in her online registration. "I registered last month
after I realised I would otherwise be unable to exercise my right to vote at the coming elections," she says. While the process seemed straightforward and the registration went through, she was shocked to find an error when she checked her details on the EC website on July 12. Her name appeared as
TOCK JING YANG instead of TOCK JING YAN. TOCK sent an email to the EC and followed it up with a call on July 14. "The staff kept passing my call around," she says. Eventually, she managed to speak to someone who assured her the error would be corrected. When TOCK asked how long it would
take, she was told about three weeks. "Does the EC need three weeks to change my name in their database? Is that how efficient government agencies are?" she asks. TOCK called the EC again on Aug 4 upon finding the error had not been rectified. "An officer asked me to
check in the afternoon. He said he would personally inform the database team. When I checked their website later that evening and also on the morning of Aug 5, the error was still not corrected." ● A SPOKESMAN for the Election Commission says TOCK JING YAN's name
only appeared wrong on the EC website. "In our database, her name appeared with the right spelling, without the extra 'G'. We have forwarded the problem to be fixed by our IT department." When contacted, TOCK says she is happy the matter will be resolved.
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
9
1. City Hall still has no plans to playground in Taman Desa and replace a demolished pedesto decide on the best possible TAKE NOTE trian bridge in Jalan Ampang action to take as it is strewn with as the zebra crossing and traffic lights there broken glass. are sufficient for the time being. 3. Shah Alam City Council has placed five closed2. City Hall is to instruct its Health and circuit TV cameras in Section 25 to help curb Cleanliness Department to inspect the vandalism, rubbish dumping and crime.
River of trash
DID facing uphill battle because of rubbish dumped by 'irresponsible people' RESIDENTS of Kampung Sri Andalas in Klang are angry because rubbish keeps flowing into their area, brought in by Sungai Pasir Putih, and piling up along the riverbank. Worse, because nothing has been done to prevent this inflow of garbage, other irresponsible people have also taken advantage of the situation and treating the river as a convenient rubbish dump. RAZALI AWANG, 48, says the recent heavy rains have resulted in rubbish flowing into the area and some of the refuse have become trapped, causing even more rubbish to collect. He says the area has become unsightly and efforts by the residents to clear the river have not been successful because more trash keeps flowing in. "If this situation isn't bad enough, I have seen people I don't recognise coming to throw rubbish into the river. I tell them to stop polluting our area further but they just ignore me." Another resident, HAMZAH ALI, 26, says some of the villagers are equally at fault because they also throw rubbish into the river. However, he says, the bigger concern is the indiscrim-
SHAMEFUL: Garbage thrown into Sungai Pasir Putih — Pic: Sharul Hafiz Zam
inate throwing of garbage by outsiders. "Don't turn our village into a rubbish dump. Would they like it if we were to go dump our rubbish near their houses?" he asks. HAMZAH says the residents have complained to the Klang Municipal Council but they have been told to refer the matter to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) instead. "Just who is responsible to help clear up the rubbish? Why aren't the authorities doing their jobs?" he asks. ● DID public relations officer Norisam Sahidan ac-
knowledges the problem of rubbish accumulating in Sungai Pasir Putih and that it is largely because of the acts of irresponsible people. Because of this, the department has been finding its efforts to keep the river clean an almost impossible task as it has limited resources and so much to do to care for the environment. "Our maintenance and cleaning of the river are ongoing and they include the removal of obstacles such as bulk rubbish in the river, conducted in April. This activity will be carried out
again by next month. "The department has also implemented non-technical measures such as initiating discussions with other authorities and stakeholders involved to overcome the problem. "We are planning to approached residents living along the river to make them aware of how to keep the river clean and alert us if there is any irresponsible dumping. "Our department is also arranging a discussion with the Selangor government for additional funding so that our maintenance activities can be stepped up."
Dinner that never came SUFFERING from gastric pain on July 19, BALBINDER SINGH, of Damansara, decided to order a McDonald's meal delivery instead of going to one of their outlets as he was not feeling too comfortable. "When I contacted their call centre, they told me my meal, which would normally take about 45 minutes to arrive, would be delivered in about 90 minutes as they were encountering some technical problems," he says. "Thinking 90 minutes would not be too long to wait, I proceeded to place my order. It was about 6.50pm. "One-and-a-half hours later, when my meal did not arrive, I called them to check on the status of my order. I was told to stay on the line as they had to check with the Kota Damansara outlet, which was to make the delivery. "After putting me on hold for five minutes, I became an-
noyed when they told me they could not contact the outlet. Worse, they gave me the outlet's number and asked me to call them myself." BALBINDER asked to speak to the call centre manager because he felt the request was unreasonable. "They told me their call centre manager was busy. Realising I wasn't going to get anything accomplished, I asked for the manager to call me back." BALBINDER then made other arrangements for dinner. And he was relieved to have done so as the McDonald's service centre only called him back an hour later. "Someone who identified himself as the team leader told me they could still not reach the outlet. I insisted on speaking to their manager and the team leader said he would get him to call me. "Imagine my anger when, after another half an hour
of waiting, one of their staff called me and suggested I cancel my order! "How can they even suggest such a thing after making me wait so long? Again, I asked to speak to the manager. After 10 minutes of putting me on hold, I was passed to another team leader. "Worse, when I told him I had spoken to another team leader earlier, he said he was the actual team leader and not the other person. "He told me he would listen to all my calls which they had recorded and promised to call me back. "A short while later, at 11pm, he did call me back. He admitted I was not at fault. He apologised for not being able to help as McDonald's had a system problem that had yet to be fixed." BALBINDER feels McDonald's should not have accepted his order in the first place if they were unable to
make the delivery. ● A SPOKESMAN for McDonald's Malaysia says they contacted BALBINDER after the incident was highlighted to them. "We have apologised to the customer, and we shared our findings and action plan." When contacted, BALBINDER says the manager of the Kota Damansara outlet contacted him the day after the incident and apologised for the non-delivery. "He promised to look into my complaint and also offered me RM30 worth of McDonald's vouchers. "In the same week, another staff from their headquarters also called me to apologise for their system problem. They also offered me a free meal which I could order any time I wanted. "Until now, I have yet to receive the vouchers and details of the free meal."
Online comments www.mmail.com.my Billed for 'ignored' text messages (Aug 10) ● HOW can telecommunication service providers divulge or give their customers' phone numbers to unauthorised third parties or other unknown persons without the consent of the customers? This is against the principles of trade and they should be held liable for any inconvenience and charges incurred. How can these telcos also charge for services the customers had never subscribed to or requested for? — shaktiman Clean-up pledge (Aug 10) ● MALAYSIA is still a "cowboy" country, with many people having a "cowboy" mentality. It's true! Half a century after Merdeka and that mentality still exists. That's why all this is neverending along with countless other issues that are unethical and against laws and regulations which are fair to everyone and in the country's best interest. If there's some "Stick no bills" poster as a warning, I'd think almost no one will bother and think nothing of it. Just like there are traffic lights but numerous motorists beat the lights because they think it's okay! It's all in the never-ending and selfish attitudes of people who stick unsolicited posters or adverts for their own selfish purposes. They include people who hang up lorry service adverts on trees, lamp posts, walls, just about anywhere they see fit. Look at cities like Tokyo, Seoul and Singapore. They are clean. Even the TNB switchboard in front of my house isn't spared. It is plastered with Ah Long stickers although I did try to remove them because they are an eyesore everytime I open my gate to go out. These people deserve to be punished. — Anonymous Membership ended but no refund (Aug 9) ● TELL the establishment you will pay by the month and in cash. If they don't like it, go elsewhere. But, trust me, they want your money and won't let you walk away. — Anonymous Electric shock (Aug 9) ● THE government should do something about this. Otherwise, a lot of complaints will be raised. — abah khalisha ● I WAS also asked for an additional deposit for my bill. But what can we do as consumers, other than to go by their regulations? We haven't got a choice. — Anonymous ● I ALSO had a experience with TNB. My tenant left with a bill amounting to RM1,000. I wonder why TNB did not disconnect the power earlier? I only came to know when the tenant left without letting me know. — Anonymous RM9,000 GPRS charges explained (Aug 9) ● ONCE, my phone suddenly began to download something (GPRS) even though it was locked and safely kept in my pocket, and I had set for all downloading to require my consent. Luckily, I saw it early (after more than 14 minutes, approximately 145 KB). I immediately switched off the connection or else, I don't know how much my bill will be. A check on the connection before I turned the phone off indicated a message from the call centre. I do not know what the message was about as I had deleted it before it finished downloading; it is still a mystery. I do not know the content and why it can auto-download without my knowledge. I was not using the phone before the auto-downloading began. — Anonymous
10
letters&opinions
● Mail: Letters To The Editor, Malay Mail Sdn Bhd, Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200, Petaling Jaya, Selangor
● Email: mmnews@mmail.com.my Fax: 03-7495 1229
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
● Opinions may be in the form of Letters to the Editor or comments posted in relation to all news. ● Letters to the Editor must carry your name, address and contact number. A pseudonym may be included.
PJ: Traditional Malay timber house
Saving the 'Rumah Kutai'
TRADITIONAL Malay timber houses represent the earliest vernacular examples of the use of purely local materials in buildings. Once ubiquitous throughout rural settlements, the traditional Malay house was similar yet different, as each region of the peninsula displayed differences in style. The buildings were usually modest in design with timber columns and beams, timber floor planks and wall panels, and atap or rumbia laid roofs. Others more ornate come with delicate carving to allow a diffused light to penetrate the interiors and provide necessary openings for air to ventilate the dwellings on hot and humid tropical days. The Malay timber house is now, more often than not, neglected and abandoned, replaced by brick and concrete structures. The traditional Malay house reflected the high degree of skill and expertise of local craftsmen and carpenters who worked with high quality tropical timber, once cheap and readily available. These tukang built using basic tools but produced intricate joinery and delicate carvings, but these skilled craftsmen are now a rare breed. In 1994, Badan Warisan Malaysia restored a Rumah Kutai (translated literally “old house”) in Kuala Kangsar. Reported to have been built in 1884, it is located at
ABANDONED: The Rumah Kutai at 29¼ Mile, Kota Lama Kiri, Kuala Kangsar, in a state of extreme dilapidation today (left) and in June 1995 (right) after it was first restored by Badan Warisan Malaysia
29¼ Mile, Kota Lama Kiri, Kuala Kangsar beside the old road to Ipoh. It is the only remaining vernacular house of its typology in the area having survived three major floods, as it is located close to the banks of Perak Rriver. It was even featured in the book, Landmarks of Perak (p.45, RNS Publications, 2006). The restoration of the Rumah Kutai received a Juror’s Award in the PAM Architectural Awards 1995 in the Conservation and Adaptive Re-Use Building Category. The house is now abandoned, in a state of extreme dilapidation, and because it is near a bend where the main road passes by almost next to the house, one cannot help but be concerned about the possibility of further damage from a vehicular accident. Very few Kutai houses
remain and, of these, many have been abandoned or have been changed and, therefore, have lost some degree of authenticity. Surveys conducted in the late 1970s and early 2000s show the number of Kutai houses located in Kuala Kangsar and surrounding districts fell from around 100 to around 40. There are innumerable reasons for this apart from harsh tropical conditions and benign neglect — the disappearing skilled tukang partly due to the lack of demand for timber houses, as the modern preference is to build in brick and mortar, diminishing resources and the rising costs of raw materials. Traditional inheritance laws don’t help and even our legal framework is against this — you’re not going to get CF because a timber house is considered a temporary structure.
So, what happens next? Can this building be saved and restored once again? Should it remain in its original location, or be dismantled and re-sited? And, even if so, can it survive the toll of harsh tropical weather and society’s bias against traditional timber houses? Or should we give in to the forces of economy and gentrification where traditional houses are “saved” and masquerade as beach resort chalets and tourism showcases? S ome sections of the contemporary mindset are prejudiced against historical buildings, especially those which are modest. However, every historical building contains a wealth of information, a record of technological history, and its use as a piece of social history. The Rumah Kutai is representative of, and a legacy from, the craftsmanship of
the Malay builder, when the building of a house was a labour of love and of the community it was located within. Badan Warisan Malaysia is prepared to help find a new location for it, where its architectural, social and cultural values can be exhibited to a wide audience, much as we have done with the Rumah Penghulu Abu Seman, which was relocated to our Heritage Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Retaining the Rumah Kutai will maintain the community’s relationship with the past, helping better define and shape the present and future. Badan Warisan Malaysia is also prepared to offer our technical expertise for a project to save this house. Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid President Badan Warisan Malaysia
PJ: London lockdown (Aug 10)
Can it happen here? THE spectre of unabated violence in London and wanton destruction of the last four nights sends a chill down the spine. More terrifying is the spontaneous mushrooming of many copycat incidents that threaten to spread all over the country. The police and the government seem to be woefully unprepared for it with dire consequences to the country's reputation as a haven for good living and multi-cultural tolerance. What has gone wrong? Is it police arrogance, high-handedness and insensitivity towards the poor and the underprivileged? Were there serious problems of unemployment and exorbitantly high
living costs which have been swept under the carpet for many years? Have racist policies been a covert practice of the authorities, and did this trigger the conflagration? There are many soul-searching questions that the UK government has to find answers to, and fast. On the home front, I can see that our nation is veering into a situation, that, given the same "triggers", will mirror what is happening in London now. I am thinking about the consequences of our amnesty programme. By the time we finish the registration process of legal and illegal aliens, including maids, etc. we may have close to four million foreign workers
in the country, most of them working for meagre wages, and probably no off days, and little medical aid. My confusion is whether the illegals, made legal now, are better off than before. Are they being paid the same as the originally legal aliens and are they adequately protected from harassment from unscrupulous agents and, sometimes, authorities? I am aware that even now, in certain locations, "legal" migrants have rented whole apartments, and they have in turn brought in friends and relatives, most of them by covert means, who do what they can to scrounge for a living. With millions of these youths, displaced from their mother coun-
tries and with no future to look forward to, we are actually having pockets of distressed and disturbed people in many locations all over the country. If, through some reckless policy, or even high-handed police action on some transgressions made by these aliens, it may be easy for a flashpoint to be achieved under incendiary conditions, and the "London experience" will be repeated here. Calling for an amnesty for these aliens is a noble thing to do, and the United Nations will be pleased, but can we look after them the same way as our citizens? Tam Yeng Siang
PJ: Coping with rising food prices (May 13)
Be mindful of our spending
WHILE the prices of practically all essential goods and commodities have gone up along with the cost of living, Malaysians must understand this trend is not confined to our country but worldwide. As such, we must tighten our belts and live accordingly. Grumbling and fingerpointing will not help us to live peacefully. Just leave it to the authorities concerned to do the necessary to work out plans to make the prices affordable. Since this is a worldwide problem, we should not expect the authorities to come out with miracle solutions. Leave them in peace to work out what has to be done so that in time to come, we can expect prices to stabilise and be affordable. This will be sooner than later and until then, let us all spend only for our "needs" and not for our "wants". Also, as a reflection, what the United States is going through now financially appears to be the first time in their history. This financial meltdown will slowly creep into other countries in the world beginning with Europ e, w here many states are managing on borrowed money. It is difficult to know the kind of effect and consequences this will br i ng to ou r re g i on although Malaysia is assure d t hat we c an cushion the recession, if any, because of our giant trading partners, namely China and India. Whatever the assurances, our financial pundits must be on top alert and keep their eyes and ears open to look out for any spillover from the US financial fiasco. In our stride towards a developed nation by 2020, we cannot afford to experience any more recessions. Anandh
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Deputy Director-General of Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia Prof Datuk Dr Zaleha Kamaruddin has been appointed Rector of International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) from yesterday — IIUM
news
11
PETALING JAYA
Patriotic as ever But where are the Jalur Gemilang, cabbies?
WITH less than three weeks to Merdeka Day, the Jalur Gemilang can be seen hanging proudly from buildings and homes throughout the Klang Valley. The display of Merdeka spirit by taxi drivers, however, is a different matter. Checks by The Malay Mail saw few taxis adorning the flag. Klang Valley Taxi Operators Association (PPTLK) president Abdul Jalil Maarof explained causes for the non-visibility of flags on taxis. He said it was due to lack of sponsorship. "We cannot afford the Jalur Gemilang. This year was difficult compared to the last. " We u s e d t o h av e t h e Information, Communication and Culture Ministry and City Hall help with the costs, but this year, we were not even invited to City Hall's recent flag-flying launch," he said, adding they only heard of the event through the news. "Despite the snub by sponsors, we decided to launch our own flag-flying event." Taxi and Limousine Operators Association (PERPEKLI) president Datuk Aslah Abdullah, however, denied flags were not being distributed and said certain cabbies felt confused between
By ASRUL HADI ABDULLAH SANI and FAIZAL NOR IZHAM mmnews@mmail.com.my
politics and patriotism. "We have given one flag to every driver. City Hall gave away 40,000 flags and I am curious to know why few taxis are displaying them. "I think because of the Bersih rally, people are being antigovernment. "They should not allow that to affect their patriotism. "I also hope petrol stations will start giving away free flags again. If they can spend millions on advertisements, why not for Merdeka?" asked Aslah. Meanwhile, cabbies The Malay Mail spoke to claimed patriotism has nothing to do with them not putting up the Jalur Gemilang. Reasons were that "we don't want the flags to get drenched in the rain" and that "the flags will get blown off and end up on the road". Amin Ching Ah Choy, 70, urged government agencies to provide them with stickers to go across the top of their windscreen instead of flags. "Weather conditions sometimes are not ideal. Rain fades the colours and smoke
from other vehicles blackens the flag. Also, the glue used to attach the flag to the windscreen does not hold for long. "It would be better if taxis are given Jalur Gemilang stickers so we can exhibit our patriotism all year round," said a taxi driver from Petaling Jaya. Another cabbie, Abdul Samad, said he cannot afford to decorate his taxi with the Jalur Gemilang. "After gas and maintenance, we only earn RM50 to RM60 a day. We have to work 12 hours
daily from 6.30am. We have other financial priorities to worry about such as the downpayment for an average taxi is roughly RM7,000 to RM10,000, which also covers gas, installing the meter and painting of the vehicle. "If the initial agreement is unsettled (which normally lasts 3-5 years), the taxi will be repossessed," said the 63-year-old from Puchong. "Despite this, my sense of patriotism is still strong," he added.
KUALA LUMPUR
AmBank treats children, single mums THERE was much pre-Raya cheer for 112 underprivileged children and 16 single mothers when they were taken on a shopping spree for new clothes at the Mydin Emporium Sinar Kota in Jalan Tun Perak yesterday, courtesy of AmBank Group's sports club Kelab AmBank Group (KAG). Children, aged from two to 17, were from three orphanages — Rumah Amal Baitul Kasih in Rawang, Keluarga Besar Norlina Alawi Bhd (Cheras) and Pusat Jagaan Kasih Harapan (Petaling Jaya) were each given RM150. The single mothers received RM200 each. The children and women subsequently attended a buka puasa function at Dewan Besar Tun Rahah in Jalan Bukit Bintang here hosted by AmBank Group chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim who, along with senior management officials, presented them with duit Raya. KAG vice-president Anuar Omar said besides sponsoring the Raya clothing of the children and single mothers, the club also
Tower set to flash Jalur Gemilang colours
FESTIVE JOY: Orphans with new clothes they received from KAG vicepresident Anuar Omar (centre) at the Mydin Wholesale Emporium, Sinar Kota Kuala Lumpur — Pic: Salhani Ibrahim
donated RM5,000 to each of the three orphanages to enable them purchase things like towels and curtains. "Our programmes cover the whole country. We also organised back-to-school programmes to benefit underprivileged students, as well as gotong-royong activities and sports events." Among the 112 children was
KUALA LUMPUR
By THASHA JAYAMANOGARAN thasha@mmail.com.my
17-year-old Mohd Zulhilmi Anuar from Rumah Amal Baitul Kasih. "My father died two years ago and my mother runs her business. "But she is currently undergoing surgery, so our family depends on financial aid at the moment," said Zulhilmi, the eldest of three siblings.
"I hope to do well in my Form Five examinations this year." Another grateful recipient was Mohd Firdaus Haziq, 12, who is preparing for his UPSR. "Getting to choose our Raya clothes was fun. I now have new baju melayu, songkok, belt, shoes, socks, slippers and a writstwatch," said Firdaus whose father died seven years ago.
THE red, white, blue and yellow colours of the Jalur Gemilang are now flashing brightly atop the KL Tower (above) in Jalan Puncak nightly in conjunction with Merdeka on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16. This began last Friday. It will continue until Sept 20, from 7.30pm to midnight on Mondays to Thursdays and 7.30pm to 1am on Fridays to Sundays. Each night, the colours will change every two minutes, followed by a fiveminute light show called Starflash with the colours of the Jalur Gemilang. The tower's Skytracer
and Arena also play the Jalur Gemilang song every night at 8pm, 9pm, 10pm and 11pm. Standing 421 metres (1,381 feet), the KL Tower opened on Oct 1, 1996. It is the seventh tallest telecommunications tower in the world and the tallest in Southeast Asia. The first six tallest telecommunications towers in the world are Tokyo Sky Tree (Japan), Canton Tower (Guangzhou, China), CN Tower (Toronto, Canada), Ostankino Tower (Moscow, Russia), Oriental Pearl Tower (Shanghai, China) and Milad Tower (Teheran, Iran).
12
world
North Korea today denied shelling near the South Korean border, the State news agency said, adding only 'normal blasting' from construction work took place in an incident yesterday — AFP
NEW YORK
CAYENNE
Fashion war
Swarming 'hairy moths' trigger French Guiana curfew AN invasion of Yellowtail moths that cause a form of dermatitis known as the Caripito itch has led the authorities in a region of French Guiana to impose a nighttime curfew. The affected region is Sinnamary, located 110km west of the French overseas territory's capital Cayenne. Since the start of July, public lighting has been switched off at dusk, shops closed and residents told to stay indoors, in the dark and under mosquito nets, the authorities said. T h e Ye l l ow t ai l m ot h , Hylesia Metabus, is found mainly in mangrove swamps but they swarm to lights in nearby towns between 7pm and 11pm. "The female moths release thousands of microscopic urticating hairs that cause severe itching," the local
Judge denies shoe designer's trademark claim for 'red soles' A US judge yesterday denied a request by French footwear designer Christian Louboutin (pic) to stop Yves Saint Laurent from producing high-heeled shoes with red soles. Paris-based Louboutin, whose pumps have graced many fabulous and famous feet, sued fashion rival Yves Saint Laurent in April in Manhattan federal court over what he claims is his signature use of lacquered red on shoe soles. US District Judge Victor Marrero quoted lyrics by singer and actress Jennifer Lopez and poet Walt Whitman. He warned in an occasion-
WASHINGTON
A JURY recommended the death penalty yesterday for a serial killer who kept the decomposing bodies of 11 women in and around his Ohio home for more than two years. The jury deliberated over Anthony Sowell's fate for less than three hours before giving its verdict, which will be examined by a judge before
ally humorous opinion that granting Louboutin's trademark claim could lead to "fashion wars." "If Louboutin owns Chinese Red for the outsole of high fashion women's shoes, another designer can just as well stake out a claim for exclusive use of another shade of red, or indeed even Louboutin's color, for the insole, while yet another could, like the world colonizers of eras past dividing conquered territories and markets, plant its flag on the entire heel for its Chinese Red," Marrero said. L ou b out i n a s k e d t h e judge to find its famous red soles protected under the
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Lanham Act, which governs trademark law. The judge recognised that the soles were indeed unmistakable, but declined to grant an injunction. "The Court therefore concludes that Louboutin has not established a likelihood that it will succeed on its claims that YSL infringed the Red Sole Mark to warrant the relief that it seeks." Louboutin sells about 240,000 pairs of shoes in the United States each year. Louboutin lawyer Harley Lewin said he thought the judge was wrong in saying that colours in fashion could not be protected. — Reuters
health authority said. The hairs used by the female moths to protect their eggs from predators can cause cutaneous conditions in humans. "The light produced by a television set is enough to draw the moths into homes," Barbara Thomas, a local restaurant owner, told media. "I've been closed every evening for a month now," she said, complaining the infestation had hit French Guiana's economy badly at the peak of the tourist season. Sinnamary residents staged a march on July 29 to demand the authorities eradicate the moths. A committee was formed to tackle the problem and consider measures such as spraying the swamps during the moths' reproductive period. — AFP
Jury recommends death for serial killer the final sentence is delivered tomorrow. Sowell, 51, showed no emotion as he stood in an orange prison jumpsuit to receive the verdict, though the clanking of his shackles could be heard as he fidgeted slightly. Several people in the courtroom could be seen crying as the judge read the jury's verdict.
The former marine was found guilty of the gruesome murders last month. He apologised for his crimes and described his troubled childhood during a sentencing hearing on Monday in which two of his relatives and a former cellmate pleaded for mercy from the jury. "The only thing I want to say is I'm sorry," Sowell said. "This
is not typical of me. I know it is not a lot, but that is what I can give you." Relatives of several victims said Monday they did not believe his apology was sincere. Donnita Carmichael, whose daughter Tonia was among the victims, said she thought the apology was "rehearsed and weak.
"At this point though we have justice, and I still want him to get life in prison because the death penalty would be too easy," she told media. Prosecutors for the case said Sowell was sexually motivated and acted alone when he killed the women, whose decomposed remains were found in his backyard and inside his home after his arrest.
Sowell had blamed the smell emanating from his house on a nearby sausage factory. The gruesome case that unraveled on October 29, 2009 had officials scrambling to explain why the crimes weren't discovered sooner. Police have also come under fire for ignoring cries for help which could have saved the lives of six of his victims. — AFP
GENEVA
Hospitals, medical staff targeted in wars HOSPITALS, health care workers and ambulances are increasingly targeted in conflicts worldwide from Libya to Somalia, depriving millions of sick and wounded people of treatment, the International Committee of the Red Cross said yesterday. The independent aid agency, which delivers supplies and collects the wounded and dead from battlefields, called for a halt to deadly assaults on medical facilities and personnel. "Hospitals in Sri Lanka and Somalia have been shelled, ambulances in Libya shot at, paramedics in Colombia killed and wounded people in Afghanistan forced to languish for hours in vehicles held up at checkpoints," Yves Daccord, ICRC director-general, told a news briefing. "People get used to it. Hospitals are attacked, doctors are arrested and it now seems to be a normal part of armed conflict," he said.
LIFE-SAVERS: International medical volunteers play a major role in saving lives in strife-torn regions like Dadaab in Kenya. Here malnourished refugee children are treated in the Medecins Sans Frontieres Hospital in the Dagahaley refugee camp. — Getty Images
In a report entitled "Health Care in Danger: Making the Case", the ICRC documented 655 violent incidents between 2008 and the start of 2011 in 16 countries that disrupted delivery of health care, many of them deliberate attacks violating international humani-
tarian law. In all, 1,834 people were killed or injured, including 159 health care workers in the attacks which it called "the tip of the iceberg". Some 128 medical personnel were kidnapped and 32 ambulances were damaged, it said.
"They die because the ambulance does not get there in time, because health personnel are prevented from doing their work, because hospitals are themselves targets of attacks or simply because the environment is too dangerous for effective health care to be delivered," said Dr. Robin Coupland, a British war surgeon who led the ICRC research. The violence, often accompanied by looting, means doctors and nurses leave their jobs, hospitals run out of drugs or fuel to run generators and vaccination campaigns grind to a halt. Under the Geneva Conventions, the wounded and sick, whether civilians or combatants, must receive prompt medical treatment. Yet many armies and rebels flout humanitarian law, according to the ICRC, which has launched an awareness campaign. — Reuters
ThursDay 11 August, 2011
the malay mail
13
14
world
Democratic US Senator Jim Webb, a critic of China and champion of engaging Myanmar, will visit Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam in a three day visit from tomorrow -- AFP
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
LONDON
And now.. water cannons British PM hails 'fightback' approach and tougher action against rioters
PRIME MINISTER David Cameron said a "fightback" had begun yesterday against Britain's worst riots in a generation, as he authorised the use of water cannon for the first time outside Northern Ireland. Meanwhile, three Asian men were hit and killed by a car while defending their community from looters in Birmingham and the unrest spread to other English cities, although London was calmer due to an increased police presence. "We needed a fightback and a fightback is underway,"
Cameron told a news conference outside 10 Downing Street after meeting top security officials following a fourth night of lawlessness and arson. Cameron said he would "not allow a culture of fear to exist on our streets" and credited the government's decision to boost police numbers in London to 16,000 overnight as having helped stem the tide of violence. "We now have in place contingency plans for water cannon to be available at 24 hours' notice," the Conservative premier said, adding that police
CRISIS: Cameron is shown the West Midlands Police Events Control Suite by chief constable Chris Sims (right) and assistant chief constable Sharon Rowe, following another night of rioting in Birmingham last night. — Getty Images
had already been authorised to use plastic bullets against rioters. Water cannon have previously been used in the troubled province of Northern Ireland to tackle sectarian tensions but have never been deployed on mainland Britain. There were no immediate signs of fresh violence yesterday night. But the riots have raised questions about security ahead of next year's London Olympics, and it prompted the cancellation of yesterday's football friendly between England and the Netherlands
at Wembley Stadium. Cameron's tough new line came after he flew back from holiday in Tuscany on Tuesday to take charge of the biggest challenge to the Conservativeled coalition government since it came to power in May last year. Police have arrested more than 1,100 people across the country since the riots erupted on Saturday in the north London district of Tottenham after police shot dead a man two days earlier. Three courts in London stayed open all night yesterday to deal with riot cases. Police
in Manchester in northwest England said two protesters were jailed yesterday, one for 16 weeks and one for 10. Manchester and towns in the industrial English Midlands bore the brunt of Tuesday night's violence, although the Third cricket Test against India went ahead as planned at Birmingham's Edgbaston ground. In Birmingham, Britain's second biggest city, police said they had arrested a man on suspicion of murder after an incident in which a car was driven into a group of people and three Asian Muslim men
were killed. Witnesses said the victims were protecting local shops from rioters. "They lost their lives for other people, doing the job of the police," witness Mohammed Shakiel said. Tariq Jahan, whose 21-yearold son Haroon Jahan was one of those killed, appealed to locals not to take revenge and called for the law to be allowed to take its course. "Why are we doing this? I lost my son. Step forward if you want to lose your sons. Otherwise, calm down and go home," Mr Jahan told the BBC. — AFP
Social networking sites used to expose rioters
MOB RULE: Youths looting a Carhartt store in Hackney two days ago. Britain is considering stiffer penalties for rioters and looters. — Getty Images
Britons call for looters to lose benefits AN online petition calling for looters and rioters to have their state welfare handouts withdrawn has proved so popular that the British government website hosting it crashed yesterday. More than 78,000 people had signed the petition by the time it crashed, amid a growing sense of a popular fightback against the wave of lawless violence that has swept across English cities this week. If 100,000 people sign the petition, it would trigger a process that
could end with lawmakers voting in parliament on the plan. "No taxpayer should have to contribute to those who have destroyed property, stolen from their community and shown a disregard for the country that provides for them," the petition reads. Normally on their summer break, Prime Minister David Cameron has recalled lawmakers to parliament to debate the surge of thuggery that started in London but has since spread to
other cities. There is little chance of there being a full debate on the proposal, though, as petitions hitting the landmark must first go through the backbench business committee, which decides certain motions for parliamentary debates. "A notice posted on the web page said: "Sorry if you're experiencing problems accessing e-petitions. There is currently a much higher level of demand than we expected." — AFP
BRITONS took to social networking sites yesterday to expose the rioters who went on the rampage for four nights, posting photos of masked gangs looting and hurling missiles. Much of the violence, which started in London but has since spread to other parts of the country, was captured on mobile phone cameras, video recorders or CCTV, and the images quickly found their way into cyberspace. London's Metropolitan Police made a tentative attempt to use social media to track down suspects, putting up 25 photos of youths breaking into shops and lobbing missiles on photo-sharing site flickr. But the official effort paled in comparison to the surge of activity by amateur web investigators. One such project is a web page called "Catch A Looter", which has been set up on blog-hosting website tumblr and features dozens of photos from the London riots. Images showed looters walking out of shops with electrical goods, clothes and bottles and close-up shots of rioters hurling missiles. The anonymous creator of the site urged web surfers to get in touch with Crimestoppers, a charity that allows people to anonymously pass on information about crimes, if they recognised anyone on the site.
But just a day after it was set up, the creator announced the web page would no longer be updated, saying that with the riots spreading across the country "there are loads of photos and I can barely keep up". "The beauty of social media is you can put these things up quickly, and take them down again too, without any cost," he said. Another, more controversial, effort was under way to track down rioters, with a Google Group set up called "London Riots Facial Recognition". Members of the group are reportedly using technology similar to Facebook's photo recognition tools to identify looters whose faces appear on the web. It was quickly restricted to current members of people invited to join after concerns were raised in the media following discussions by the group's members on the legality of using facial recognition. As well as using the web to hunt rioters, 'netizens' also launched a very British "anti-riot" yesterday with a Twitter and Facebook campaign entitled "OperationCupOfTea". People were asked to "Stay in and drink tea" and post a photo of their beverage online, instead of going on the rampage. The project was one of the top trending topics on Twitter. — AFP
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Brazil's Embraer, the world's third largest commercial aircraft manufacturer, said yesterday it was putting final touches on plans to transform its factory in China to produce executive planes — AFP
BEIJING
Worrying sea trial The maiden trip of China's first aircraft carrier rattles nerves
CHINA'S first aircraft carrier embarked on its inaugural sea trial yesterday, Beijing said, prompting the United States to call for an explanation amid concerns about the nation's military expansion. Beijing only recently confirmed it was revamping an old Soviet ship to be its first carrier and has sought to play down the vessel's capability, saying it will mainly be used for training and "research". The voyage comes amid heightened tensions over a number of maritime territorial disputes involving China, notably in the South China Sea, which is believed to be rich in oil and gas and is claimed by several countries. The defence ministry said the carrier's first sailing would be brief, and that the ship would after wards return to the northeastern port of Dalian for more "refit and test work". Andrei Chang, head of the Kanwa Information Centre, which monitors China's military, told media it would probably test whether the engines worked, and that on-off sea trials were likely to continue for another year or two. "We would welcome any kind of explanation that China would like to give for needing this kind of equipment," US
China aircraft carrier takes to the seas
CARRIER COMPARISON
Nimitz United States
China’s first aircraft carrier has begun sea trials, a move likely to increase concerns over Beijing’s naval ambitions. The Shi Lang is a refitted former Soviet carrier, previously called the Varyag 1988 1988 Commissioned 300 metres 300 metres Length 55,000 tonnes 55,000 tonnes Displacement 32 knots 32 knots (59km/h) (59km/h) Speed 2,500 2,500 Crew
Active phased array radar (APAR) Similar to Similar to U.S. U.S. Aegis system Aegis system
Shi Lang China China
Aircraft: About About 20 20 fixed-wing, including fixed-wing, including Chinese JL-9 Chinese JL-9 jet jet trainer, trainer, plus 20 plus 20 Russian-built Russian-built helicopters helicopters
Queen Elizabeth UK Charles de Gaulle France Illustrious UK Ski-jump: Aircraft Aircraft launched launched by by flying off flying off ramp ramp angled angled at at 12° 12° (no catapult (no catapult system) system)
Flight deck area: 14,700 14,700 square square metres (80 metres (80 percent percent size size of of U.S. U.S. Nimitz-class carrier) Nimitz-class carrier)
world
15
Tattoos linked to rare skin infection in US AT least two men may have come down with a rare bacterial skin infection that is hard to treat with antibiotics after getting tattoos at a store in Seattle, US health authorities said yesterday. One 44-year-old man was confirmed to have a case of Mycobacterium haemophilum after getting a tattoo on his arm in the western US city in August 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. The infection, which showed up as a bumpy red rash and a pus infection on the skin's surface, resisted treatment with several antibiotics but eventually disappeared after nine months. — AFP
Cholera cases in DR Congo top 5,000 Propulsion: Conventionally-powered. Conventionally-powered. Eight Eight boilers boilers and four and four steam steam turbines, turbines, each each producing producing 50,000hp 50,000hp Sources: Jane's Sources: Jane's Information Information Group, Group, Global Global Security, Security, wire wire agencies agencies
State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told reporters when asked if the carrier would raise regional tensions. "This is part of our larger concern that China is not as transparent as other countries. It's not as transparent as the United States about its military acquisitions, about its military budget," she said. China's People's Liberation Army, the largest armed force
in the world, is extremely secretive about its defence programmes, which benefit from a huge and expanding military budget boosted by the nation's runaway economic growth. Earlier this year, China announced military spending would rise 12.7 per cent to 601.1 billion yuan (RM2.8 trillion) in 2011. In January it revealed it was developing its first stealth
NEW YORK
Armament: FL-3000N FL-3000N surface-to-air surface-to-air missiles (similar missiles (similar to to U.S. U.S. RAM RAM system), system), 30mm CIWS 30mm CIWS guns guns
© GRAPHIC NEWS
fighter jet, and it is also working on an anti-ballistic missile capable of piercing the defences of even the most sturdy US naval ships. The rapid expansion has c au s e d c onc e r n among China's neighbours. Last week, Japan voiced concern over the country's widening naval reach and what it called the "opaqueness" of Beijing's military budget. However, Beijing has repeat-
edly sought to alleviate fears over its pursuit of sophisticated weaponry and the official Xinhua news agency said the new carrier posed no threat to any other country. "Building a strong navy that is commensurate with China's rising status is a necessary step and an inevitable choice for the country to safeguard its increasingly globalised national interests," it said. — AFP
A CHOLERA outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has infected more than 5,000 people and caused nearly 300 deaths since March, the United Nations said yesterday. Bandundu, Equateur and Province Orientale are the worst-hit regions. "The 5,000 mark was reached this week with 5,088 reported cases of cholera, including 296 deaths," the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement. Cholera is a highly contagious intestinal infection that can kill if not treated properly. -- AFP
LOS ANGELES
Wall St tumbles again U.S. STOCKS plummeted over four per cent yesterday, more than wiping out a rebound as European debt troubles and worries of a new US recession kept investors nervous. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down 519.83 points (4.62 per cent) to 10,719.94, reversing its 430-point gain on Tuesday. The broader S&P 500 fell 51.77 points (4.42 per cent) to 1,120.76. Meanwhile, the tech-heavy Nasdaq was uncharacteristically a better anchor for the markets overall, losing just 4.09 per cent, or 101.47 points, to 2,381.05. Gold hit another record, of US$1,797 (RM5,402) an ounce, before dropping back to the US$1,790 level. After their devastating Monday plunge, the markets had rebounded solidly on Tuesday when the Federal Reserve said it would keep interest rates at ultra-low levels for two more years to aid the stalling economy. But more worries over weakness set in,
Two aircraft lifts Move planes Move planes between between hangar and hangar and flight flight deck deck
especially after cracks appeared in Greece's latest bailout package and France began looking frail, with rumours abounding that the country, and possibly its banks, would also be downgraded as the United States was on Friday. That sent Europe's markets plunging, and the effect spilled over across the Atlantic. The Dow "nullified Tuesday's gains today, as revived concerns about the fiscal fate of Europe kept the major market indexes swimming in red ink," said Andrea Kramer of Schaeffer's Investment Research. "With Uncle Sam's notorious creditrating downgrade still fresh on traders' collective mind, the threat of a similar downgrade for France only reopened Wall Street's proverbial wounds," she said. As in Europe, banks again pulled the markets down. Bank of America dropped 10.9 per cent, Citigroup lost 10.5 per cent and Goldman Sachs 10.1 per cent. — AFP
Anonymous hackers threaten Facebook A SPLINTER group of notorious hacker collective Anonymous was fomenting support yesterday for a plan to "kill" online social networking star Facebook. A YouTube video labeled as a message from Anonymous claimed that "Operation Facebook" would take place on November 5 to destroy the social network for supposedly abusing the privacy of users. An Anonymous spokesman told media even heads of the group were uncertain how seriously to take the threat since the loosely-knit organisation doesn't have a strict command structure and members mask their identities. "I found groups of people who say we absolutely are and have a trick up our sleeves," said the spokesman. "I found others that say it isn't us and that this is stupid."
The video displayed a gray image of the Anonymous logo as a digitally masked voice announced a plan to destroy Facebook and called for others to join in the cyber attack. The video accused Facebook of holding onto the data people post in accounts and of even sharing some of it with law enforcement agencies. "Join the cause and kill Facebook for the sake of your own privacy," the speaker urged in the video, which has been viewed more than a million times since being posted three weeks ago. A cadre within Anonymous was evidently trying to rally cyber warriors in a Facebook attack, but the plan did not have the backing of the majority of the group, according to the spokesman. A message on an "Anonops" account at microblogging service
Twitter acknowledged that some members of the group were organising a Facebook attack but that didn't mean the sentiment was unanimous. Hackers bent on derailing Anonymous clashed with members of the group at a DefCon gathering in Las Vegas over the weekend. "Hubris" and "Asherah" of startup Backtrace Security condemned Anonymous for "bully behavior" and argued that the group was trying to pass off reckless opportunism as Internet-age activism. "When Anonymous started it was a good idea," Asherah said during what exploded into a fiery session at the infamous DefCon hacker get-together. "Now, it is in violent freefall. They have become the monsters they are claiming to fight against," she said. — AFP
x 16 lifestyle news
By JOE LEE joelee@mmail.com.my
twitter @klubbkiddkl A TITLE like Cowboys & Aliens is a no-brainer if you were to imagine what it is all about. Yup, it does scream marauding technologically-superior aliens planted against the backdrop of the wild, wild, west. And true enough, any preconceptions on how the plot would be executed, didn’t wear down any brain cells indeed. Eventually the lights dimmed for the beginning of a rather strange pairing of bedmates when it comes to the genre. While it begs for coherence when James Bond and Indiana Jones team up with The Last of The Mohicans to pit their forces against Aliens VS Predator leftovers in an Independence Day set out deep in the dusty prairies — nothing can take away the fun popcorn movie appeal of Cowboys & Aliens. Its title sums up what to expect – pretty much a straightforward delivery of expectations, like what Snakes on a Plane conjured up in 2006. How literal can you get. While Cowboys & Aliens won’t be taking westerns to a new frontier, nor beaming any sense of believability into the alien genre, go into the cinema halls
without thinking, and it’s a sure thing that you’ll be amused, and perhaps even entertained. If all else fails — you’re getting a mishmash of several movies into one, with even Encounters of the Third Kind referenced (well, sort of when the lights of the alien crafts first appear in the night sky – after that they look liked flying mechanical arachnids). On that note, even the strange device clamped on Jake Lonergan’s (Daniel Craig) wrist looks like the Anubis bracelet from The Mummy Returns — only more high-tech. Jon Favreau’s Cowboys & Aliens boasts six credited writers
and 16 producers, executive producers, associate producers and co-producers (with names like Steven Spielberg, Brian Grazer and Ron Howard among them). Don’t let the impressive list of those working on the film lull you into a false sense of security, thinking this will be the movie of the year - because it’s not. In fact, the best advice on how to take this film, comes from Cowboys & Aliens itself when Ella Swenson (Olivia Wilde) tells Jake how to control the bracelet. “Don’t think about it. Empty your mind,” she breathes sexily
Don't over-analyse
WATCHABLE: With the visual mayhem and romance, nothing can take away the fun popcorn movie appeal of Cowboys & Aliens
in an almost desperate tone (from what I recall) at least. Do that the moment Cowboys & Aliens starts rolling. The story begins in 1873, in New Mexico territory when a stranger in Jake wakes up with no memory of anything, and wanders into the small town of Absolution. Get it? Lonergan (loner gun) stumbles into Absolution. There’s something deep intend-
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
17
Bosses you would love to hate ed there, though we’re not sure what. Anyway, moving on. He discovers the people of the town don't welcome strangers, and bow to the real man who runs the town, Colonel Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford). Some minute sub-plots later, the action really begins as the aliens drop the bombshell (or exploding laser thingamajiggies) that they’re in town and continue its rampage of abducting townsfolk to study ‘the weaknesses of the human species’. Thus begins the real conflict, where logic takes a backseat as you’d think the aliens, who turn out to be gold prospectors (yes, gold is precious to them too), being able to blast humans to ashes or so, would render that whole move a waste of time and bad PR. If this review is not making you keen on watching Cowboys & Aliens, then the best advice is — ‘don’t think’ and just head out for the movie already, because despite it all, it is a good watch, even if you’re not going to buy the incredulous piece of fiction showcased in just under two hours.
And if nothing else, the cinematography and visual effects alone are worth the money. Not to mention some yummy shots of Daniel (in some rather shapely enhancing pants) and also Olivia — depending on what your preference is. ● COWBOYS & ALIENS begins screening in all cinemas today from United International Pictures Malaysia.
THE seemingly harmless Horrible Bosses is, in fact, pretty vulgar in its own context, as the movie supplies all the 'kicks' through endless cheap but fun, explicit humour. Horrible Bosses serves as a reminder that people in Hollywood haven't really lost their touch in making comedy, especially after quite a number of failed attempts that seemed to tap more into our gag reflex. This film, seems unapologetic with its steady supply of obscenity throughout the movie. Best of all, anyone could find fun in it while finding little fault. If not for the constant missing nouns (some words were cut out) which makes many scenes in the film literally pretty choppy (thanks to you-knowwho), the movie could have been more enjoyable. Indeed, the movie seems to have all the guts to please fans who are into wit and great humour — with or without the lines. You catch the drift. The story is relatable. For three buddies — Nick, Kurt and Dale — keeping up with their job is already stressful but having to put up with their intolerable bosses prove to be too much to handle for them. When quitting is not an option, they began to take advice from a dubious ex-convict, Dean Jones (Jamie Foxx) on how to kill their superiors. Plot wise, Horrible Bosses seems like a final-year project by a film student, which clearly shows that the scriptwriter is actually having a lot more fun writing dark humour than nailing
e Bosses over sort of movie, Horribl FOR LAUGHS: A post-hang a still maintains its charism
down the movie's direction. It is quite surprising to see the movie takes a different turn halfway through its plot and grow organically into a fun fest. It is all good in the end, when the final plot gels together with the rest of the story with the help of divine intervention, literally.
There's little distraction in the movie, except the film's take on relationships and the offensive dialogues. A post-hangover sort of movie, Horrible Bosses still maintains its charisma, generally winning the race. The three leads (Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason
Sudeikis) seem pretty likeable as they offer a refreshing take on their characters who are stuck in a dead-end rut. The three display great on-screen chemistry, and are clearly having the most fun, as seen in the bloopers at the end of the movie. Jennifer Aniston attempts to steer away from her America's sweetheart image to portray a crazy sex-driven dentist, which is convincing for a first-timer. As the title suggests, Horrible Bosses supplies more than just a few smirks but packs with loads of laughout-loud moments. If you are ever going for this, just watch with an open mind and relax. A generally feel-good movie, Horrible Bosses is the sort of flick where you would go in the cinema feeling down and come out with a belly full of laughter.
18 lifestyle
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
A brand new season
RAMADAN is when many in the performings arts fraternity take a break. However, come September, when everything is "back to normal", expect more excitement on various performing arts stages around the country that might just excite masses. Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS (DFP) and the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), for instance is embarking on yet another adventure that might just keep music lovers occupied. That's right, DFP and MPO are moving into the new season next month, and the list of performers is pretty impressive. Well into the 14th season, DFP and the MPO is also expected to stay true to the original mission of "providing the best in arts and culture, and elevate local entertainment scene to another level". This mission will be reflected with an impressive line-up of artists and performances of timeless masterpieces. The best news is, more than 100 concerts will be presented by the MPO, local and international artists/groups at DFP. The new season will start
with MPO Gala Concert on Sept 17. Led by music director Claus Peter Flor, MPO is expected to wow the audience with its pioneering collaboration with three local star pianists — Foo Me Yi, Bobby Chen and Tengki Ahmad Irfan simultaneously. The much-loved Discovery, Pops, Legacy, Age of Elegance, Yuna
Showcase and Family Fun Day series will continue to offer a selection of repertoire of diverse choices of music. The new season also marks the introduction of the Beethoven Solo Concerto series which will present all of the maestro’s majestic solo concertos. DFP will also be THE place for music lovers to witness début performances by luminaries such as conductors Martin Yates and Mark Fitz-Gerald, organists Olivier Latry and Jennifer Bate, pianists Benedetto Lupo and Eric Le Sage, and vocalists Lance Ellington and Andrew Halliday, amongst others. The excitement will also continue with performances by legendary jazz singer Laura Fygi. The diva will perform with the MPO Big Band in February 2012, rendering her staple jazz repertoire and classic hits. Fans of renowned jazz trumpeter Chris Botti should not miss his most anticipated showcase this season too. The biggest-selling American instrumentalist is expected to woo his admirers in December 2011 accompanied by the MPO under the baton of local maestro Datuk Mokhzani Ismail. Familiar faces at DFP will also return. They include conductors Richard Kaufman and Karen Kamensek; pianists Stephen Hough and Alexandre Tharaud; and violinists Barnabás Kelemen and Isabelle Faust, to name but a few. For a little bit of "culture", expect performances by artists of varied music genres such as Indian tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain (October), Japanese duo Hanamas (December) and Canadian ensemble Red Priest (January). In July next year, fans of M Nasir will certainly rejoice as he takes centre stage in a collaboration with the MPO. The popular DFP Spotlight series, which seems to have pleased the younger crowd, will continue with popular
Laura Fygi
young names such as Yuna (September), Aizat (October) and Najwa (May 2012). In continuation of last season’s success of the KLCC Seni Festival, DFP will also bring back the music extravaganza billed KLCC Seni Festival 2011 in October. This week-long festival is expected to feature a list of performances, as part of a major celebration of the best in arts and culture, and Malaysian diversity.
Among the troupes that might grace the stage include the MPO Seni Ensemble, Badan Kesenian Warisan Johor, ASWARA Dance Company and Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia. The new season will also present exciting thematic MPO concerts such as New Year In Vienna, Great Baritone Arias, Dances Around The World and Tribute To The Beatles. As for the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
(MPYO), they will continue to hold court, demonstrating its youthful virtuosity in a series of concerts this season. DROOLING? Perhaps it's time to book your tickets. For inquiries, call the Box Office at 03-20517007 0r fax 03-20517007, or email dfp_boxoffice@petronas. com.my. You can also visit the Box Office to get a copy of the new brochure, or visit www.mpo.com.my.
Genting Arts Festival 2011
M Nasir
YET another good news for lovers of the arts. Resorts World Genting is all geared and for the inaugural Genting Arts Festival 2011 that will take place at Resorts World Genting from Aug 12 to 21.
The event is aimed at celebrating Malaysia’s talented pool of contemporary arts artistes and supporting the nation’s arts industry. During the Genting Arts Festival 2011, three main activities will be held for visi-
tors to experience. Firstly, the Arts Exhibition which is held at Resort Hotel. Then there's a special workshop to be held at The Olive Lounge, that would be opened for the public to participate at RM50 per
person. The workshop is helmed by renowned artist Phillip Wong. There are other activities tool. For more info, call 603 2333 6679 or fax 603 2333 3913. Also visit www.rwgenting.com
lifestyle 19
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
By Loong Wai Ting waiting@mmail.com.my HIS previous film, Kinta, was more like a student's project, receiving bad reviews. So, can he do better with his new movie, The Loan Shark? Well, just like a past re-visited, The Loan Shark does bear some striking resemblance to Kinta. Only, it is slightly more polished and has more experienced actors. If the audience swore and gagged watching Kinta, The Loan Shark promises a much better script and a more compact storytelling. The ending of the movie, which can be summed up and predicted within the first five minutes into the movie, is an anti-climax. To think that it takes an hour for the story to be built!
Directed by CL Hor, the story is set in Kuala Lumpur and revolves around two siblings, Ah Loong (Sam Lee) and Mun (Josephine Goh). To help repay his family debts, Ah Loong joins the loan sharks, while Mun is selected by the police special force to become an undercover agent to gather information from the loan shark's organisation. However, as time passes, the siblings have to choose between justice and love; and end their ties to the organisation once and for all. Malaysia's head of MCA Public Service and Complaints Department, Datuk Michael Chong, also makes a special appearance in the movie. Hor made the same mistake he did in Kinta by not addressing his movie's characters well, leaving some of them under-developed. The story of Ah Loong is never really told, even though the movie's pivotal moment centres around the loan sharks. Instead,
DRAGGY: The movie has some minor pacing issues
Not for the squeamish PRETTY: Josephine Goh is definitely the star of the movie
the movie focuses on Mun, who goes on her own to bring down the organisation. Josephine is definitely the star of the movie, and she did surprisingly well and convincing as a big sister, slamming beer bottles one after another on someone's head. Sam, on the other hand, shines in every scene despite some minor shortcomings.
The movie has some minor pacing issues. As a result, the plot appears to be a little draggy. However, the most enjoyable part is when the action sets in, but cames in short intervals. Each lasts a minute, and the most, two. The special effects that come with it are not really that special either and are best left out.
The Loan Shark survives merely because of the awesome performance by its glowing cast. There are gritty scenes that might not be too suitable for anyone squeamish. A random movie at its best, The Loan Shark is a commendable attempt by a local director. Apart from that, stay out of its way.
20 lifestyle
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Immerse yourself in culture Kadri Gopalnath
By CHE'AZ cheaz@mmail.com.my IF you're trying to figure out what to do on your coming weekends and trying to break DR NATHAN: Lucky to get top away from the usual cliches of Indian artistes here life, maybe it's time for you to time for all the top artistes get a little more cultured. from all over India to be Perhaps it would be more fruitful if you could bond with celebrated under one roof and that lucky stage happens your family and enjoy quality to be in our own country. time together and enjoy the Charity Gala Premier of Indian Each of them has very tight schedule. Classical Music and Dance "How do I manage to get India Beat 6. The concert will feature the them down to Malaysia and put them together? I know very best of international carmost of them personally, natic artistes, each showcasthanks to the Chennai Music ing the ultimate of his or her Festival which is held in Deown discipline. The programme, led by the U. Shrinivas president of Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress, Datuk Dr P. S. Nathan, is also aimed at raising funds for the Kidney Dialysis Centre and the Temple of Fine Arts. The show will be held at the Merdeka Hall, Putra World Trade Centre, on Aug 26 and 27 at 7.30pm. Similar concerts had been held five times in the past 15 years but this year's concert will definitely be the biggest one as it will bring in 14 top carnatic artistes from all over India. "It has been 15 years since we first held this charity event. Ever since, we'd always find a way to organise similar project every three or four years, especially with the cooperation of Temple of Fine Arts. So far, we organised five. This is our sixth, and that is why we call it 'India Beat 6'." Dr Nathan said the highlight for this year is the 14 top carnatic artistes from all over India that will congregate here for the first time. These top artistes are well known in India but they never really got the chance to perform together in their own counShobana Chandrakumar try. "This is the first
STELLAR: (From left) Sikkil Gurucharan, Akkarai Subhalakshmi and Ramakrishnan
cember every year. So it was not that hard," Dr Nathan said. He did have to prepare a quite detailed arrangement to ensure that all the performers could come together on the same dates since they all have dedicated commitments. "However, they are kind enough to help us, and in fact are excited to be here. I can't wait to make the charity gala premier a successful event," Dr Nathan said, adding that the performers will be in Kuala Lumpur by Aug 25. Apart from the charity content of the project, Dr Nathan said the concert is also aimed at educating the youth about Tamil language and related cultures, which are dying particularly among those below 45. "The older generation Vijay Ghate
Prasanna
Kanyakumari
might remember the music and art as it was, but the younger ones crossed to the more popular mediums like films as well as pop and fusion music. I am trying to keep the culture alive," Dr Nathan said. The 14 performers will also bring an accumulated years of experience and all them are well-travelled too. Each has his or her strength within the carnatic music domain. Kidney Dialysis Centre is chosen as the cause to support based on Dr Nathan's personal inclination and passion. "I'm a medical man. I understand. There's a crying need for more kidney dialysis centres. "There Anil Srinivasan
U. Rajesh
Rajeshekar
Bakthavathsalam
are many people who are in different stages of kidney failure. Some of them cannot even afford to just walk in any dialysis centre. The government is doing their best, but it is still not enough. The least we could do is help out," Dr Nathan said. The top carnatic artistes who are expected to
Shashank
be here are Shashank (flute); Akkarai Subhalakshmi (violin); Bakthavathsalam (mridangam); Radhakrishnan (ghatam); Anil Srinivasan (piano); Sikkil Gurucharan (vocal); Prasanna (guitar); Kadri Gopalnath (saxaphone); Kannyakumari (violin), Rajeshekar (moorsing), Shobana Chandrakumar (bhatrathanatyam), Radha Badri (vocal), Srividya (nattuvangam), Ramakrishnan (mridangam), Venkatasubramiam (violin), U. Shrinivas (mandolin), U. Rajesh (mandolin) and Vijay Ghate (tabla). You can book and RSVP your seats before Aug 20. Tickets are priced at RM50, RM100 and RM150. For more details, call 03-22840557/ 03-22840857/ 03-74923226 or 03-22743709.
lifestyle 21
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
13 flavours, one melting pot
Chef Alham Serving Gulai Kawah with Briyani
guidance of Crowne Plaza Mutiaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabulous Chef Alham, Chef Ishak and their talented team. They have put together a delicious mix of some of the most exquisite traditional Malaysian recipes. The choices available are presented at 12 action stalls that have been set up in and around Plantersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
Inn restaurant. Most of the dishes are available only during Ramadan, displayed outdoors gerai makananstyled complete with pelita and lights. Some of the dishes to look out for are Bubur Lambok, Murtabak, Piaren Ah-Manuk, Nasi Biryani and Gulai Kawah, Ikan Pekasam, and Laksa Johor. More varieties come from the mouthwatering Otak-Otak Gelang Patah and Nasi Kerabu. Patrons will also get to watch traditional cooking techniques for ikan bakar and roti canai at the live cooking stations. Among the desserts might also be your favourite, including traditional sweets like Cek Mek Molek, Akok and Lompat Tikam as well as a selection of bubur, so do save some space in your tummy for them! During the month of Ramadan, the buffet will be specially priced at RM98 per person, while children aged between four and 12 years dine at half the regular price. The buffet starts from 7pm and ends at 10.30pm daily. Call ahead for reservations 03-2146 3820/3821.
SUDOKU
SUDOKU
HOW TO PLAY Sudoku X is a simple variation of Sudoku with the only difference being the squares in white (which make up the numeral X) need to tally from 1 to 9 along with the remaining coloured squares.
YESTERDAY'S SOLUTION
IMAGINE the flavour of 13 States in one place. Yup, this is where the entire Malaysia is literally within your reach. Head to the Planters' Inn restaurant at Crowne Plaza Mutiara Kuala Lumpur for the Citarasa Al Mubarak themed buffet and you'd understand what the fuss is all about. The theme is meant to represent a melting pot of flavourful dishes under the
22
the malay mail
Pantai
Setiawangsa
Sri Hartamas
Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Titiwangsa
Penang
23
the malay mail
ThursDay 11 August, 2011
Seputeh
Shah Alam
Tropicana
USJ
24
PROPERTY / MOTORING / HEALTH / HOME / OTHERS
the malay mail
Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Readers can also look out for classified ads ONLINE as early as 9.00a.m at www.mmail.com.my
M22
Houses wanted
M130
Car for sale
M133
Commercial vehicles for sale
M135
Vehicles for hire
M321
Fashion/health & beauty
M321
Fashion/health & beauty
M390
Home services/renovations
M300
Education MQA/ JPA recognised MBA programme.Credit transfer and exemptions acceptable.P/T weekends.EPF withdrawable. Shree 0126561160
GOOD PRICES OFFERED for land / houses and Apt in Shah Alam, PJ & KL. Quick sale. Owners TEL / SMS 019-228 6666
M35
Properties for sale AUSTRALIAN properties in Tasmania. Fantastic selection of reasonably priced homes in Tasmania, which has the cleanest air in the world. Also have large bakery for anyone interested in emigrating to Australia. Contact Freddie Forstner +61409886698. E-mail magyar@trump.net.au In Semua House â “ going lock stock barrel Selling apparels, cushion covers and decoration item. Ground floor shop nicely set up and decorated. Sale RM80k or nearest offer. Contact 019-281 6216/ 012-234 8151
GOOD NEWS !!! Great promotion. Immediate stock , Fast approval. High trade in. Low d/ payment. Free body kit & sport rim for Forte. All new Sorento ready stock. Sportage, Citra RS, Rondo, Picanto, Pregio. Call: 03-4256 5556 Ampang
(NEW) INOKOM & HINO Special promotion, free body. Call:0123211 453/ 012-3225334
M135
Vehicles for hire
ONE DAY, WEEKLY, MONTHLY for cars / Mpv manual/ auto. Expat welcome . Fast delivery. Call: 017638 1954 CARS REQUIRED
M138
Financing/insurance service
AROMA MASSAGE RM39 at Serdang, Judy, Alice, Jenny, Ari, Mira,Jean. 012-678 0220/ 012-3281 449 Batavia /Darlina Beauty House. AROMA THERAPY Massage for all kind of body pains & sickness. P & C. Interested call: JOJO 017-8484 898
HYUNDAI PROMOTION !!! Sonata/ Tucson/ Santa Fe/ Starex/ i30/ Accent/ i10. Special discount! Super high trade in (any car). Low d/p & interest. Easy loan approval. Mystery gifts. Beautiful plate no. Fast delivery. Excellent customer service. Head office: 012-381 0737
A DAILY, WEEKLY, MTLY. RM50-RM300. All types of cars. MPV, Van & 4 x 4. Call: ARI 016683 2111 / BEN 016-901 2276
CAR LOAN Refinancing,Buy Used car / New car Blacklisted name are qualified to apply. Aerowatts Auto S/B(678070-M) Tel:03-6185 8982 012-308 3528,019-314 3601
BLUE ROSE AROMAS 24A, Lrg Ara Kiri 2, Lucky Gdn Bangsar.Therapist local Indian g i r l s . P r i v a t e & c o s y. 1 1 a m 11pm. Ms Meera 0320945542/ 016-2056003
M321
Car for sale
ALL NEW MODELS. Attractive promotion. New sport back. Fast delivery, FOC maintenance. Pls call: 012-326 9849
MITSUBISHI ALL new models. Fast loan & fast delivery, (Call to believed), Grandis, Pajero, Lancer, ASX, Sport back. Good trade in, Attractive promotion, good deal in town. All models stock available. 24 hrs in call. Oscar Tan 012-388 5897
NISSAN ALL NEW Models Promotion. Full loan. Debit cash RM3k - 10K. 100% ready stock with impuls earo kit. Leader seats, tinted. Guarantee 1 week delivery. High trade in. 24 hrs approval. Door to door service. Call: Junson 016-6666 132
ALL MODELS CAR Van & MPV, Toyota Alphard, Wish, BMW, Naza Ria, Kia Spectra, Vios, Waja & Perdana V6 etc. Reasonable price. Free delivery. Tel: 019-599 9973 / 012-2532 566 Roadster Travel (KPL/LN 3540)
ASX. MIT TRITON. PAJERO Sport, Lancer & Grandis. Trade in accepted . Call: 012-977 6961 HARUN
A FULL GLAMOUR Massage (001711965-V) by female. 234,Tmn Maluri, 55100 KL. Call: Stella 017-2555 844
TRAD MASSAGE, RM50, SS21/12, PJ. Newly open. Call: 03-7873 0971. Gina/ Rina/Apple/ Rozie.
UNLEASH THE MUSIC INSIDE YOU. Classes for-guitars, drums, saxophones, keyboards, Piano, violin.Call 03- 7873 6388.
Computer SPECIALIST IN notebook / pc repairs. Best price & services. On-site repairs & free troubleshooting. Call 016-380 1984 Teh
M430
Business opportunities
SAUNA D’ HOME BEAUTY and Health care. Agent required. 019-735 5295 www.saunaku. com 2011 Great Promotion!
ADULT STEM Cells, the miraculous answer to wellness, longevity and financial freedom. Call: 012-298 6207 SPECIALIST IN REPAIR cushion sofa, curtains, car seat & new sofa, in Jalan Kuchai Lama. Tel: 012313 0778 / 03- 7981 1898
M394
BEST BUSINESS Opportunities, run your own free organic store, no investment, no renovations, risk free with multiple income sources. Call 012-256 9668 for more info.
Home electrical appliances
PROMO RAYA. Alza, Viva, Ready stock. Discount RM2,500. Loan 100%. Instant approved. Call: FAZLI 017-336 6675
VOLKSWAGEN 2011. New 5 years warranty + road assist, low int. Models: Passat, GTi Golf, Tiguan, Eos etc. Rado 012/013-208 9447
M133
ALL NEW CARS/ MPV available for rental. We are also looking for vehicles under 5 years for long term lease (pajak) Call: 012-241 7736
CHEAPEST RATE Car rental in KL. Many types of Cars & MPV. (Pajak- accepted) Call for RAYA booking: 012-987 7756
AA MASSAGE: By young female. Rest and relax. Just call: 017-296 3930/ 017-296 3068
(NEW) HICOM, High discount, high trade in, cheapest in town. Call: 016248 8363 / 012-676 3609.
EURO RENT (KKKP4225) New fleet of Proton cars, MPV & vans. Long/ short term rentals. Corporate/ expats. Credit card accepted. Call Fabian: 037877 1834/5, 012-238 1769. www.euro-rentacar.com.my
TRADITIONAL MASSAGE in Cheras & Balakong. Call Sonia,Hanisha, Julia, Mira & Rosa. 0123676 780. 012-258 1334 KITCHEN APPLIANCES Shop. Raya sale up to 50%!!! For HOOD + HOB (3 burners)= RM1988 + FOC Microwave Oven, Limited Unit Only! 016-718 9901 (Diana)
AAAAA QUEENS SPA Male and female masseurs, out call service available. Private & Cosy. Call: 03-9057 1336/ 016-646 9891 www.klqueensland.com
INDIAN AROMA TRADITIONAL Massage by local Indian girl. Relaxing for male & Female. 1pm -11pm. Appointment Revathy. Out call; 016-6468 493 LOCAL INDIAN girls massage. P & C. Shalini 016-224 2495 Sharon 011-162 61730
Commercial vehicles for sale
BRAND NEW. All models. ( Vios, Altis, Camry, Prius, Avanza, Inova, Rush, Hilux, & Hiace Van) Full & Islamic loan, Int rate at 2. ++%, Special discount + free acc . @ email: shaharudin.toyota@gmail.com
REPAIR ON THE SPOT., Air cond, fridge, water heater, & w/machine. 24hrs & 7 days operation. Call: Syed 017-388 3154
Home furniture/furnishing
DIABETIC? FREE! Blood Glucose Meter. Get it now! For info call: 016-3130974 or visit www.medicaldevice2u. com T&C Applies
PROVEN & TESTED: Over 9,215 people won 4D in a week! Last 2 days for those who want to take the 1 hour 4D Training Prediction Course, to win this week coaching by the Professional Author and Physics Maths Expert at our Training Center at Pusat Kajian Fizik Sains, Sunway. Call: 019329 4728 Mr. Yap or 012-239 2775 Mr. Goh to book now. Get this new 4D Formula book title: Rahsia Menang Lottery 4D Akhirnya Terbongkar. Click to see www.SureKena.com
M303
M393
0 AARON MASSAGE Services (1606620-V) by Female. Outcall only. Private & cosy. +6012-393 0136
GOLDEN MERMAID. Out call Relaxation massage by Male & Female masseurs. Call: 012-907 5995 / 03-2021 7637
AN EXTRA Trade in Value,low d/p,spd.delivery, free tint, f/ tank, Ste. lock, T & Go, Many Gifts. 016-321 4958, 010-539 4958
M392
CUSTOMIZE HAIRPIECE / Toupee / Wig - RM1,700 only. More info : www. hairsetup.com Call: 0193118916 , 03- 9274 7857
ALL CARS MPV & Luxury car for hire. Suitable for VIP & weeding ceremony. Pawn (pajak) accepted. 017932 4646/ 013-671 6565
WELLTAX GLASS & aluminium works. Windows & grilles direct from factory! - sliding casement - main gate - repair door - all aluminium works. Inquiry call Mr. Ling (M) 019227 0528 (M) 019-202 8855 (T) 03-8962 2189 (F) 03-8962 3189
Home repairs/maintenance PRESENT THIS Ad to ENJOY FACIAL promotion RM 68 / nrm RM 368 or a FREE eye care treatment. Call 038063 8153. No. 53-G Jalan Puteri 1/4, Bandar Puteri. Make your dream come true.
Fashion/health & beauty
CENTURY ROLLER SHUTTER specialist. Installation, service & repairing all kind of door roller shutter. Call Lee 012-649 9238
OUTCALL TRADITIONAL MASSAGE, pre / post natal,body Scrub for men / women by experienced masseur. Call: Mira 013-336 3160
OUTDOOR / INCALL MSSG by local Indian girls. 2 ½ mile jln ipoh. 016-679 7786 / 016-642 3786 Kajal.
M130
‘0’ DEPOSIT ALL PROTON Models, no license can buy, Less doc can help. 100% loan for gov. & private staff, int from 3.0%, loan fast approval, high trade in. Meet at your place. Free smart tag, touch n go, full fuel, steering lock, tinted. Open everyday.Mr Lim 012-214 0207
OUT DOOR/ HOTEL Package massage by young Chinese, Indonesia, Thai girls. Please Call: 014-6620 579
AKS BEAUTY CENTRE Body massage + scrub (2hrs) RM100. Whitening facial (1hr) RM50, (1 1/2 hrs) RM70. Hot stone oil massage (2hrs) RM130. Call:03-7984 3077
Lose Body Fats Win Cash! Interested sms 012-9955811with Name / Weight / Height. Register at www.mwscentre.com
AROMA ASIAN Massage. For outdoor only. With Promotion price. Interested please Call Julie: 016-293 1051
NAMASTE!!! Need a relaxing massage ? Interested just call : SIMI 014-6311 228 (Indoor only) K.Lumpur
M414
Photography
ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AGENT Smoker Haven required Private, food/ retail shop & Kiosk. Easy, good income. Low capital. Cash/ Credit card. Interested call: 03-8023 4626 (10am 5pm) www.SmokerHaven.com KEMENTERIAN KEWANGAN MOF Registration, Bumi status. Call: 03-40434000 / 019-3840000. www. Ready Companies.com
TRADITIONAL MASSAGE Newly Opened in Damansara .Call Sandra,Nancy, or Fifi, Cindy.Tel: 012-258 1334 ( Just Relax Massage Centre )
YANTRA SLIMMING World brgs excelnt 3 days weight loss (-10kg) Program now at lowest price @ RM799 Can pay by instmnt. Original price RM3889. Fast & Easy, Herbal & Natural. No side effects. $ bec guarantee. Call Rubini 0102617817,0126301672. YANTRA WORLD brng excelnt 3 days Weight GAIN (+20kg ) Program now at RM789, Can pay by instlmnt. Original Price RM3899. Fast, Easy & Herbal.$ bec guarntd. Call Rubini 010261 7817, 012-630 1672
VIDEO to DVD Conversion. Video filming & Photography Svs. 03-4041 6850 / 6277 4991 / HP 012-235 5190. w w w. s h e e l v i s i o n . c o m
M300
Education MQA APPROVED DIP.in accountancy (ACCT) & Mgt (FT / PT) RM 400 p/m - PTPTN & EPF claimable. Call: 0360925254 / www.asa.edu. my / SMS: 012- 656 1160.
OWN A COMPUTER, put it to work, Part/ full time income RM1000 - RM8000 . Training provided. SMS 012-4444 033
M434
Business Services MUSLIM COMPANY Secretary New & Shelf Co. ROC, MOF Bumi Kem. Kewangan Call: 03-40410000 / 0162860000
OTHERS / JOBS / LEGAL / NOTICES
Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011 M434
Business Services
WE HAVE more than 1 Million Malaysia Updated Email & Phone List to Boost Up Your Business.10,000 Email List for RM200 & 1,000 Phone List for RM200. This Month Promotion: Free Email Blasting Marketing Software + Training. Call Mr Goh :012-2392775 or Mr Yap :012-2168427
M110
Tour & travel
M398
M370
Services
Articles for sale
INTERIOR & ARCHITECTURAL Design Consultancy Tel: (603) 3325 9166 Fax: (603) 3325 9366 Hp: (6012) 321 2096 www.lazern.com
ANTIQUE PREUSED items for sales at 1-059 First Floor, Millennium Square, Jln 14/1 Petaling Jaya. 037956 7753/ 017-287 3789
M515
M515
Jobs
Jobs
Jobs
BEAUTICIAN URGENTLY Chinese / malay beautician wanted with certificate and at least 6 month experience in beauty line. Plzz call 03-26937641 (Ninder)
INDIAN COMPANY SECRETARY/ Company Secretarial/ Accounts/ Income Tax Clerks required. Call: 03-2693 9425/ 2698 4176
BISTRO BAR AT Damansara requires (1) Manager; attractive salary RM2K++ plus comm.) Required with working experience in Pub & Bistro, Chinese female encouraged to apply. Interested call Chris at 014-262 6300
Litigation Clerk at legal firm in Plaza Pekeliling. Pls email resume to kol9555@gmail. com or call Sue 03-4043 5788
M280
ARE YOU Single/unattached.. ready to commit? Seeking the right one can be tough! Let Cupid’s help..03-2142 1118/ 6118/ 016-650 1118 w w w. c u p i d s t o u c h . c o m . m y
TOMAZSHOES! Leather Shoes! RM69 - RM89! High Quality and Comfortable! Come to USJ9 Mall, Puchong 017-707 8383
Articles wanted
Pets AFFORDABLE RENTAL Rates for cars, Van & we do Inbound Tours as your convenience Call: 03-5882 9445 / 0126799987 / 013- 384 1299
BUY / SELL / PAWN Note book, hand phone new/ old 70% digital camera.0342517755 / 012-3388688 Peter. 208 Plaza Ampang City, KL
M398 TEA CUP POODLE for sale 2 to 3 month old all vaccine and dewormed. Price:RM 950 Call:012-249 5424
ACCOUNTS, AUDIT ,TAX, Secretarial, MOF & Register co..Door steps service. Lembah Klang.03-5511 5922 / 03-4107 8457 Sainy. Visit www.mhmfirm.com
TOY POODLE 2 month old vaccine and dewormed. price: RM550-750 Call: 012-249 5424 view:www. puppiesglobe.blogspot.com.
BUS DRIVERS WITH E License needed for international school based in K.L (Call: 012-234 8081/03-4044 8081.
M372
M323
Services
M515
We want to buy huge volume used medical X-ray films. Pay top price @ USD$1500 or more per MT without paper. If available, please email xraymalaysia@hotmail.com for more discussions. Thanks
Friendship
M515
Jobs ACCOUNTS cum Administrative Assistant. Min SPM and above.Experience in general accounting functions & duties.Computer literate and well verse with Microsoft Office application especially Excel. Able to start immediately will be an added advantage. Applicants must be willing to work in Sg. Buloh. Contact 013-208 0065 Ms. Siti or send your resume and application to kch2001my@yahoo.com
the malay mail
Centre Associates Wanted. Mail Boxes Etc. Damansara Heights. Please email your resume to mbe_damansara@ mbe.com.my or call 03-20939020 for interview. For more info about us, visit www.mbe.com.my
CORPORATE PROJECT Executives. (Sales & Marketing Division). Required urgently at Menara Yayasan in Petaling Jaya (next to Amcorp Mall). SPM/ fresh graduates are encouraged to apply. No experience required as training will be provided. Email: admin_gm@keneve. com.my Call Ms Jeesha at 018-295 5135 for an immediate interview appointment. CREDIT RECOVERY OFFICERS wanted at Klana Jaya. School leavers or fresh graduate or retires encourage to apply. Interested call: 016-207 0228 Lee, 012-296 0625 John IMMEDIATE VACANCY FOR Sales Exec with min. SPM. Senior Technician & Junior Technician preferably with experience in Forklift industry. Call: 03-7848 3122 / 3133. Loc: Subang, Mahsing.
ONLINE EDUCATION BUSINESS. We are looking for business partners to expand our market share. The only e-learning portal endorsed by the Ministry of Education. Huge market potential (Std 1 to Form 5). Pioneer & leader in e-learning. Low start-up capital. High income return. SMS your particulars <NAME> SPACE <AGE> SPACE <OCCUPATION> SPACE <AREA> to 012-3776739
REAL ESTATE in Kota Damansara requires Negotiator. With / without experience. Male/Female. Any race. Contact 03-6142 7823 / 012-366 2000 or send your resume and application to edwin@i-smarte.com
REAL ESTATE Negotiators successful Real Estate Negotiator earns high income and an exciting Career! You could be one of them if you meet the following requirements:- 1) Minimum SPM qualification. 2) Ages 24 to 30. 4) Friendly personality with good spoken English. 5) Friendly personality with good spoken English. 5) Minimum 2 years working experience. 6) Have own transport. Successful candidates will have a minimum allowances of RM1200 plus attractive commission call Ms. Chin @ 03-2093 7777 for pre-selection or interview
03-7495 1273
RECOVERY OFFICERS Supervisors/ Managers/ Clerical needed. Attractive basic salary, commission and performance bonus provided. Loc: near the Pudu LRT station. (walking distance) Call: 03-9195 5551 @ 5552 or E-mail gtr@galatrack.com Retiree with 42 years’ experience as a Secretary seeks full-time employment in KL. Interested parties, please email to suitching.liew@yahoo.com SALES CO-ORDINATOR. A 25 years well established Co with proven track records & ISO recognition at Bandar Puchong Jaya required min SPM/higher. Working exp in clerical liaise with customer & service dept. Computer literate Chinese dialect preferably Offer Basic+Bonus+Medical Ins+Alt Saturday Off. Contact WAI KING 0358826882/0122329801 or send resume to wkg@corida. com.my /fax 0358826881 SALES EXECUTIVE. Age 18 & above. Basic salary RM 800 + commission + bonus with/ without experience. Professional training provided. Own transport preferable. Vacancies are available at these locations: - Kelana Jaya, Shah Alam, Tmn Segar & Low Yat Plaza. Contact Cik Eyra (T) 2142 9405 (HP) 019-221 1559
SECURITY OPERATIONS Executive with experience needed at high rise building Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur for night shift. Salary RM 2200.00. Contact Chandran. 012-376 0640,032282 7055 & 2282 7044 STORE LABOURERS urgently required by a Shah Alam company.Age below 30 years old. 5 days week work. Salary below RM800.00 + Allowance.Contact 03-51911069 (NJ/Badrul) TEACHERS / NURSES Required For Sales Job, Excellent Spoken English, Willing to work on weekends/ Public Holidays, Earn 3k7k Monthly, Retireeâ ™s Can also apply Interested candidates please Send Cv to saim_au@yahoo.com” VAN DRIVER Required at USJ for 5 days week. Min SPM with 1 year related working experience and able to work in a fast pace environment. Possesses GDL badge and able to speak English. Call: 03-5638 2208 (Ms. Jessica ) for interview.
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
25
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
26
LEGAL / NOTICES
the malay mail
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011 M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
M580
Notices/legal/proclaim
YNS will carry out a selection trial at the Bukit Jalil National Hockey Stadium on Saturday — Bernama
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
sports
27
KUALA LUMPUR: BADMINTON
OCM steps in Meeting to resolve issue regarding shuttlers
THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) have received a letter from the Olympic C ou nc i l of Ma l ay s i a (OCM) seeking to settle the dispute between them and independent doubles pair Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen. "We have received the letter and will cooperate with OCM," said BAM general manager Kenny Goh. "We are waiting for our secretary (Ng Chin Chai) to return from London (World Championships)." OCM vice-president Datuk Roy Rajasingam, who is also the Council's
By HARESH DEOL haresh@mmail.com.my
alternative dispute resolution (ADR) committee chairman, wrote the letter to BAM yesterday requesting a meeting between BAM, the pair and OCM on Aug 18. Teik Chai and Bin Shen, who play for KL Racquet Club, met OCM late last month after they were dropped from the on-going World Championships in favour of Zakry Abdul Latif and Hoon Thien How despite being ranked higher. Zakry and Thien How,
however, lost to Taiwanese duo Fang Chieh Min/Lee Shen Mu in the second round of the world meet. Roy, however, is still waiting for BAM's reply. "I have not heard from them (BAM) yet. We must also see if the players are free to meet on the given date," said Roy. Roy will select a panel who will then hear both parties out to reach an amicable solution to the episode. "This is not the first time we've had athletes
OUT OF FAVOUR: Teik Chai (left) and Bin Shen
coming up to us. "We encourage sports associations and athletes to meet us and use the ADR instead of going to the courts or
to the Press." "Through the ADR, such matters can b e resolved faster and in a less hostile manner," he added.
Registration of independent players under review THE BA of Malaysia (BAM) admitted it is high time for them to look into the registration process of independent players for future tournaments. Currently, these shuttlers will have to register through the State BAs. However, there have been complaints of registrations not reaching BAM and leading to players not being able to compete in tournaments. "Perhaps it is high time to review the registra-
tion process of independent players. But for now, players will have to register through our affiliates," said BAM general secretary Kenny Goh. Kenny did not want to be drawn into the blame game but was quick to add "the end decision lies with the council". The latest victim of such a scenario is forme r BA M pl aye r K . Yogendran, who registered for the upcoming Vietnam Open scheduled
later this month followed by the Taiwan Open next month through the KLBA. Yogendran was given a rude shock when he saw his name missing from the players’ list of the Vietnam tournament. He claims he has lost RM1,200 in travel arrangements and is worried his world rankings will suffer as a result of missing competitions. However, BAM only acknowledged receiving
the registration form for the Taiwan Open. "We checked and found out that we only received the form for the Taiwan meet, which we’ve duly submitted to the organisers," said Kenny. Independent players — most of whom were part of the BAM stable during their early days — are still eager to represent the country. Most of them are over-aged for many national events including the Malaysia Games and
therefore cannot represent States. Nevertheless, there are claims independent players register for tournaments, only to pull out at the eleventh hour. Some of the independent shuttlers in the country include national No 2 Wong Choong Hann, doubles pair Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen, Roslin Hashim, Hafiz Hashim and recent Asian junior champion Zulfadli Zulkifli.
SRI PETALING: BOWLING
Sharon's birthday wish
N AT I O N A L k e g l e r Sharon Koh clasped her hands, closed her eyes and made a wish before blowing out the candles on her birthday cake at the Megalanes Endah Parade in Sri Petaling yesterday. "If I told you than it wouldn't be a secret," Sharon said in jest of her wish. However, Sharon, who turned 24, later revealed she wished for a gold medal win in the Women's World Championships scheduled from Sept 1-12 at Hong Kong Bowling City. "I hope we win the team's event. At least all three of us (including Zandra Aziela Ibrahim
ALL I WANT IS: Sharon (centre) makes a wish while her teammates (left to right) Zandra, Esther, Jacqueline, Li Jane and Zatil sing a birthday song at the Megalanes Endah Parade yesterday
and Esther Cheah) will earn a medal each," said Sharon, who joined her parents for dinner after her training session at the Megalanes. "I just want to relive the moment when we
won the 2006 Doha Asian Games, where the three of us held hands and jumped for joy when we were named champions." This will be a perfect redemption for the trio after they returned empty
handed from the 2009 edition held in Las Vegas. However, the national contingent is expected to face a tough time from the USA, Korea, Denmark and Sweden this time around.
Southpaw Sharon is not too perturbed over the conditions of the lanes in Hong Kong as she has played there before. "The Hong Kong Open was held at the same venue last year. It's quite a balanced lane so I guess there are no issues." The other bowlers joining Sharon for the world meet include Zatil Iman Abdul Ghani, Jacqueline Jenelee Sijore and Sin Li Jane. "Training seems to go as planned and I've been scoring an average of 205. Now we're just waiting for the tournament to start," she added. The team are expected to leave for Hong Kong later this month.
28
sports
LONDON: BADMINTON
The situation of the badminton team playing in the World Championships is under control and our shuttlers are safe — OCM honorary secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
Birthday blues Indonesian Taufik has no answers for his shocking exit
FORMER Olympic and world champion Taufik Hidayat suffered an oddly passive second round defeat this morning in what may well be the last world championship of a great career. The fourth-seeded Indonesian also spoiled his 30th birthday celebrations with an indifferent performance which culminated in a 21-17, 21-14 loss to Wong Zi Liang, a Singaporean ranked only 49 in the world. Taufik, as so often, tried to play large portions of the match in the forecourt and at the net, but his lifting to the back was predictable, and he looked leaden-footed and uninspired. Asked what caused the loss and the performance, he kept repeating: "I don't know why, I don't know why," holding the side of his head with a smile. Although he reduced a six-point first game deficit to two, and a four-point second game deficit to one, Taufik never really looked like turning the match around against a younger, keener and more
aggressive opponent. "I prepared well and this was the best win of my career," said Wong, who now plays Hans-Kristian Vittinghaus, an unseeded Dane. The upset may help Lee Chong Wei, whose bid to become the first Malaysian ever to win a world title is moving forward with ominous smoothness. Chong Wei once again showed himself the world's best mover on a badminton court, covering acres of ground with remarkable grace and economy as he beat Ville Lang, the world No 45 from Finland 21-10, 21-11. His next opponent though will be Park Sung Hwan, the ninth-seeded Korean, who ended Lin Dan's world title defence in Paris last year. Meanwhile, India's Saina Nehwal was bullish after her 21-10, 21-7 win over Chloe Magee of Ireland, saying that the task "would not be so very difficult". Asked to explain Nehwal said: "All the girls are put-
ting up a tough fight these days. And I am fit enough and playing well enough to have a chance of beating the Chinese. I just have to do my best, that's all." There was nominally an upset when Pi Hongyan, the former world No 2 from France, beat Bae Youn Joo, the eighth seeded Korean
21-9, 15-21, 21-13. It was a well-planned and courageous performance and her best since spending three months on the sidelines since knee surgery in January. "I spent hours watching Bae on videos, and I had this match in mind for a long time," Pi said. "Perhaps I
should do that more often." She next plays Sayaka Sato, the 16th seed from Japan, and could go on to have a quarterfinal with Wang Yihan. — AFP RESULTS Men's singles First round Eetu Heino (FIN) bt David Snider (CAN) 21-16, 21-19 Second round Du Pengyu (CHN) bt Kazushi Yamada (JPN) 21-12, 21-14; Boonsak Ponsana (THA) bt Wong Choon Hann (MAS) 21-13, 21-18; Wong Zi Lian (SIN) bt Taufik Hidayat (INA) 21-17, 21-14; Simon Santoso (INA) bt Dmytro Z avadsky (UKR) 21-19, 21-8; Lee Hyun-Il (KOR) bt Eetu Heino (FIN) 21-10, 21-7; Lin Dan (CHN) bt Scott Evans (IRL) 21-15, 21-16; Tien Minh Nguyen (VIE) bt Kashyap Parupalli (IND) 22-20, 17-21, 22-20; Chen Jin (CHN) bt Dicky Pa l y am a ( N E D ) 2 1 - 1 3 , 21-17; Ajay Jayaram (IND) bt Vladimir Ivanov (RUS) 21-19, 21-17; Sho Sasaki (JPN) bt Toby Penty (ENG)
TORONTO: TENNIS
MONTREAL: TENNIS
Federer sets up Tsonga rematch
FORMER world No 1 Roger Federer eased to a 7-5, 6-3 defeat of Canadian wildcard Vasek Pospisil to move into the third round of the ATP Montreal Masters this morning and earn a rematch with his Wimbledon conqueror Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. The 30-year-old Swiss, who is beginning his warm-up for the US Open later this month, showed little sign of rustiness as he was playing for the first time since late June when he lost in the Wimbledon quarterfinals to Tsonga. "It was tough conditions, it was quick and he had good crowd support," said Federer. "He had nothing to lose. It was a tricky match for me to play today." Federer needed 49 minutes to get on top of Pospisl in the opening set, but moved up a gear in the second to canter to victory and into a rematch with 13th seeded Tsonga, who beat Australian wildcard Bernard Tomic 6-3, 7-6 (7/1).
TAUFIK
Federer, who only required a modest four aces and two breaks of serve against his 155th-ranked opponent, said he was looking forward to playing Tsonga again. "It depends on the conditions, we might play at night or during the day. At Wimbledon it was really a matter of our serves and forehands. "He (Tsonga) served very well, and I was serving well, too. It was a matter of a couple of points." Tsonga is taking nothing for granted as he meets his rival for the second time in six weeks. "He's still the best player ever for me and it's still tough to play against him," said Tsonga. "The wins I had in the past — he won a Montreal quarterfinal two years ago against Federer — they will help me, of course. "But I've lost against him (four) times," added the 26-year-old. — AFP
Vinci topples Wozniacki
CAROLINE WOZNIACKI'S bid for a second-straight WTA Canada crown ended abruptly this morning as the world No 1 was upset in her opening match by unseeded Italian Roberta Vinci. Vinci defeated the top-seeded Dane 6-4, 7-5 to reach the third round. Wozniacki, playing her first tournament since Bastad in the first week of July, had enjoyed a first-round bye. Her early exit leaves the tournament without its top two seeds after second-seeded Kim Clijsters retired from her match against China's Zheng Jie with a stomach muscle injury that casts doubts on the Belgian's upcoming US Open title defence. Wozniacki and Clijsters led a strong field that included all of the WTA's top 20 players here this week. But one of the players most in the spotlight isn't even in that group as Serena Williams arrives unseeded in the wake of her 11-month injury layoff that ended in June. French Open champion Li Na of China advanced on a
walkover when compatriot Peng Shuai withdrew prior to their match with a left hip injury. Peng hurt her hip last week in San Diego. "It is sad for her," said Li, the sixth seed. "Always tough when you're playing samecountry player. We train together, we know much (about each other). Always tough. I like to say sorry again for her." Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova reached the third round with a 7-6 (7-3), 6-3 victory over Spain's Anabel Medina Garrigues. Eighth-seeded Francesca Schiavone of Italy also reached the third round with a 6-1, 6-3 victory over Ekaterina Makarova of Russia. Schiavone converted five of her nine break-point opportunities to win in just over an hour. — AFP
WOZNIACKI
21-13,21-13; Kevin Cordon (GUA) bt Henri Hurskainen (SWE) 21-19, 21-17; Park Sung-hwan (KOR) bt Shon Wan Ho ( KOR ) 2 1 - 1 4 , 21-10; Peter Gade (DEN) bt Stanislav Pukhov (RUS) 21-5, 21-9; Lee Chong Wei (MAS) bt Ville Lang (FIN) 21-10, 21-11; Pablo Abian (ESP) bt Marc Zwiebler (GER) 23-21, 7-21, 24-22; Hans-Kristian Vittinghus (DEN) bt Mathieu Lo Ying Ping (FRA) 21-8, 21-14 Women's singles Second round Inthanon Ratchanok (THA) b t Ju d i t h Me u l e n d i j k s (NED) 21-8, 11-21, 21-14; Wang Yihan (CHN) bt Gu Juan (SIN) 21-13, 21-18; Pi Hongyan (FRA) bt Bae Youn Joo (KOR) 21-9, 15-21, 21-13; Petya Nedeltcheva (BUL) bt Agnese Allegrini (ITA) 21-11, 21-12; Sayaka Sato (JPN) bt Olga Konon (GER) 22-20, 21-11; Yip Pui Yin (HKG) bt Michelle Li (CAN) 23-21, 17-21, 21-17; Wang Xin (CHN) bt Anastasia Prokopenko (RUS) 21-15, 21-13
ATLANTA: GOLF
Johnson seeks Major breakthrough LONG-DRIVING Dustin Johnson has a hattrick of near misses at Majors and the personality to shrug them off and stay confident entering tomorrow's s t ar t of t h e 9 3 rd P G A Championship. The 27-year-old American suffered a heartbreaking finish in last year's PGA Championship at Whistling Straits when he missed a playoff due to a 72nd-hole grounding the club penalty in a trampled-down bunker he thought was a footpath. Add a squandered 54-hole lead in last year's US Open and an out-of-bounds shot on the 14th hole while in contention at last month's British Open and it's hard not to have some sympathy for Johnson and his neversay-die attitude. "I just need to keep putting myself in the position to win and it's going to happen," Johnson said. — AFP
MONTPELLIER
STUTTGART: FOOTBALL/ INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
Stale Brazil
Chile battle back to hold France FRANCE and Chile drew 1-1 in an entertaining friendly encounter this morning, with Loic Remy's first-half strike for the hosts cancelled out by substitute Nicolas Cordova late on. Cordova produced a measured first-time finish from the edge of the box after being set up by fellow sub, Barcelonabound Alexis Sanchez, to hand the South American nation, quarterfinalists at last month's Copa America, a thoroughly deserved draw. France had capitalised on a lively start to the game by taking the lead 20 minutes in when Marseille striker Remy continued an excellent run of form stretching back to the tail end of last season by heading in his ninth goal in nine starts for club and country from a Karim Benzema cross. It was a beautifully-worked goal, with Samir Nasri's pass finding Benzema on the left, and the Real Madrid striker taking his time before picking out Remy with a pin-point cross. However, Chile slowly found their stride, and Jorge Valdivia, of Palmeiras in Brazil, brilliantly controlled a long ball from Waldo Ponce before sending a sweet strike just over Hugo Lloris' crossbar. C l au d i o B org h i ' s s i d e remained on the front foot until the interval, but without forcing a save out of Lloris. Chile sent on Sanchez, and despite having trained only twice since the Copa America, the newly-signed Barcelona star proved a handful for makeshift central defensive duo Eric Abidal and Younes Kaboul. Cutting in from the right, he set up Brescia striker Cordova to level inside the final 20 minutes. France can now turn their attentions towards a vital Euro 2012 qualifying double-header in Albania and Romania next month, when two wins could seal their place in next year's finals. — AFP
sports
I am personally pleased that I have so many options now -- Germany coach Joachim Loew
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 August, 2011
Goetze dazzles as Germany win in style
GERMANY'S young guns proved they are fast becoming a force to be reckoned with as they turned on the style to beat Brazil 3-2 here this morning with rising star Mario Goetze in dazzling form. This is the first time Germany have beaten Brazil for 18 years and only the fourth time the hosts have beaten the South American giants in 21 meetings. After a goalless first 45 minutes, a second-half penalty by Bayern Munich's Bastian Schweinsteiger and a super individual effort from Goetze put the hosts ahead before Brazil's Robinho converted a penalty on 71 minutes. The Germans made sure o f v i c t o r y w h e n B ay e r Leverkusen's Andre Shuerrle came off the bench to score the German's third on 80 minutes while Brazil's Neymar scored his side's second in the 92nd minute. After a lively first-half, the game exploded into life after the break. Germany coach Joachim Loew made good his promise to make plenty of changes to look at players ahead of forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers with Austria and Turkey. Veteran striker Miroslav Klose, now with Lazio, came on to win his 110th cap for Bayern's Mario Gomez while Schuerrle was swapped for Cologne's Lukas Podolski. It was AC Milan's Pato who made the first impact when his chip beat Neuer, but went just centimetres wide of the post with barely a few minutes gone of the second-half. When the goal finally came it was thanks to sheer German perseverance. Klose produced a deft piece of work to pull back the ball back, Goetze sprinted into the penalty area and in the melee, Brazil captain Lucio brought down Bayern Munich's Toni Kroos in the area.
RESULTS (selected) Italy Slovenia Germany Turkey Hungary Poland Austria Norway Ukraine Ivory Coast Belarus Russia France
2 0 3 3 4 1 1 3 0 4 1 1 1
Spain 1 Belgium 0 Brazil 2 Estonia 0 Iceland 0 Georgia 0 Slovakia 2 Czech Republic 0 Sweden 1 Israel 3 Bulgaria 0 Serbia 0 Chile 1
PINT-SIZED TERROR: Germany's midfielder Goetze (right) was a constant menace to the Brazilian defence during their international friendly football match at the Mercedes-Benz Arena — AFPpic
Hungarian referee Viktor Kassai had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot and Schweinsteiger made no mistake with the kick on 61 minutes. Germany could have had another penalty just two minutes later when AC Milan defender Thiago Silva placed the ball on the floor with his arm after yet another Goetze attack.
It hardly mattered as Goetze scored the second goal after a pass from Kroos split the Brazil defence in two and 'Goetzinho' — as he has been dubbed by his Dortmund teammates — rounded Silva and fired home on 67 minutes. Brazil pulled a goal back when Germany captain Philipp Lahm took out Dani Alves while trying to play the ball and Robinho sent Neuer the
wrong way with the penalty on 71 minutes. Germany sealed their first win over Brazil since 1993 when Schweinsteiger won the ball on the edge of the penalty area and pulled his pass back for Schuerrle to score the Germans' third. Neymar grabbed a consolation goal in time added on but the night belonged to Germany. — AFP
MILAN: football/ serie a
Inter want Villa as replacement for Eto'o
INTER MILAN are planning a raid on Barcelona for striker David Villa. With Samuel Eto'o pushing Inter to accept a bid from big spending Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala for his transfer, the Nerazzurri are considering
replacements — and Villa is high on the agenda. Milan sources say Inter chiefs are convinced Barca would be prepared to part with Villa for the right price — particularly with Alexis Sanchez now having arrived
from Udinese. Inter are expected to sell Eto'o to Anzhi this week for between €20-30m. Meanwhile, the agent of Eto'o says the Inter ace has all but agreed personal terms with Anzhi.
However, Claudio Vigorelli insists reports of a €20m-ayear contract are wide of the mark, but maintains Eto'o is pleased with the terms tabled. "Practically we have reached an agreement with Anzhi.
Now, we expect both clubs to agree too," he said. "Unfortunately, the figures quoted by the Press of Samuel's contract does not correspond with reality. But again, practically we have agreed everything with Anzhi."
29
BARCELONA: football/ primera liga
Borghi says Sanchez will be a success at Nou Camp C H I L E n at i on a l c o a c h Claudio Borghi is confident that Alexis Sanchez will succeed at Barcelona and is eagerly anticipating seeing the attacker play alongside Lionel Messi. Sanchez joined Barca from Udinese for a total fee of €37.5m (RM159.8m) earlier this summer and Borghi has no doubts that the 22-yearold will become a key player at Nou Camp. "Whether he can play with Messi? Obviously Leo is the best in the world and Alexis is only just starting at Barcelona. I expect that everything will work out well though, as Alexis has enormous mental strength. It will be fantastic to see them play together," Borghi told EFE. "He's used to playing quick combination football at Chile, so I think he'll fit in very well at Barca. He could also have joined other clubs (including Manchester United and Chelsea), but I told him not to hesitate when Barca came knocking." Sanchez is now with Chile as the national team played a friendly game against France this morning. He could make his Barca debut against bitter rivals Real Madrid in the first-leg of the Spanish Super Cup at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday. "Alexis is still a child, a boy of humble origins who is poised to be the best footballer in the world. I have a bet in this regard," said Borghi. Messi has been training hard these few days as he wants to be considered for the Super Cup match, despite his Copa America exerts with Argentina. Meanwhile, Barca striker Pedro Rodriguez admits the Super Cup takes on a new meaning with Real being the opponents. "It is true that recently we played very well against them, but it's an El Clasico, the game that anything can happen. The dynamics may change, so you have to raise your level," he said. "What we want is to win the Super Cup. It is a major challenge. We face Real, with a silverware at stake. They'll be two games of high stress, very nice and competitive. It will be a great test for the level of the team," he said.
30
sports
I always feel sharp in pre-season because the work we do is hard anyway. I always put the effort in — Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
football/ premier league focus
NICKNAME: Spurs, Lilywhites FOUNDED: 1882 HOME: 36,310 MANAGER: Harry Redknapp THE SQUAD GOALKEEPERS Heurelho Gomes Carlo Cudicini Brad Friedel Ben Alnwick DEFENDERS Alan Hutton Younes Kaboul William Gallas Sebastien Bassong Michael Dawson Vedran Corluka Ledley King Kyle Walker Benoit Assou-Ekotto MIDFIELDERS Gareth Bale David Bentley Tom Huddlestone Aaron Lennon Jermaine Jenas Rafael van der Vaart Wilson Palacios Niko Kranjcar Luka Modric Danny Rose Jake Livermore Sandro Steven Pienaar STRIKERS Roman Pavlyuchenko Robbie Keane Peter Crouch Giovani dos Santos Jermain Defoe TRANSFER (Thus far) IN Brad Friedel (Aston Villa, free), Cristian Ceballos (Barcelona, free), Souleymane Coulibaly (Siena, undisclosed). OUT Jamie O'Hara (Wolves, £5m), Jonathan Woodgate (Stoke, free), Kyle Naughton (Norwich, loan), Steven Caulker (Swansea, loan), Bongani Khumalo (Reading, loan), Ryan Mason (Doncaster, loan), Jonathan Obika (Yeovil, loan). (Transfer window closes on Aug 31) LAST SEASON'S POSITION Fifth PLAYERS TO WATCH Rafael van der Vaart, Gareth Bale, Kyle Walker, Luka Modric (if he is still around). PREDICTION To finish fifth or sixth. HONOURS DIVISION ONE/PREMIER LEAGUE WINNERS 1951, 1961 DIVISION ONE/PREMIER LEAGUE RUNNERS-UP 1922, 1952, 1957, 1963 SECOND DIVISION/CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS 1920, 1950 SECOND DIVISION/CHAMPIONSHIP RUNNERS-UP 1909, 1933 FA CUP WINNERS 1901, 1921, 1961, 1962, 1967, 1981, 1982, 1991 FA CUP RUNNERS-UP LEAGUE CUP WINNERS 1971, 1973, 1999, 2008 LEAGUE CUP RUNNERS-UP 1982, 2002, 2009 CHARITY SHIELD WINNERS 1921, 1951, 1961, 1962, (1967, 1981, 1991 - shared) CHARITY SHIELD RUNNERS-UP 1920, 1982 UEFA CUP WINNERS 1972, 1984 UEFA CUP RUNNERS-UP 1974 UEFA CUP WINNERS' CUP WINNERS 1963
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR had a great outing in the Champions League last season but they cocked it up in the Premier League by winning just a match against relegated teams Birmingham, Blackpool and West Ham. Mailsport's MUSTAPHA KAMARUDDIN puts his thoughts on Spurs' adventure in the new season and what is in store for West Bromwich Albion.
Spurring on
Redknapp's men still there to worry opponents TOTTENHAM'S "established strikers" must score more often in the new season if they are to mount a serious challenge to finish at least fourth. They could could have easily achieved this last season if not for the failure of strikers Jermaine Defoe, Peter Crouch and Roman Pavlyuchenko to get those goals expected from them despite all the chances. Russian Pavlychenko, the best among the three, scored nine goals. Defoe and Crouch? Only four each and their task is to get goals — at least a double figure each season. Instead, it was Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart who top scored with 13 goals and another midfielder, Gareth Bale with seven. So it is not a surprise that manager Harry Redknapp is looking high and low for a prolific striker during this transfer window. It is going to be difficult though as strikers of this calibre cost a fortune. Redknapp is desperate. He has been trying hard to find a new chief striker but his efforts
FOUR MUSKETEERS: (from left) Bale, Defoe, Pavlychenko and Lennon will strive for Spurs — GETTY photo
are in vain. And according to a report yesterday, Spurs are planning a mega bucks raid for Porto star Hulk. Talks have already taken place between chairman Daniel Levy and the Brazilian representatives as Redknapp looks to beat City and other suitors to a player who scored 36 goals and set up 21 last season. Hulk has a bizarre £88 million (RM428.1m) release clause in his contract but it is thought £35m would be enough to convince Porto to sell. That would mean Spurs smashing
'Man from Tashkent' is West Brom's prime mover
WEST BROM had a decent outing last season — finishing 11th despite all the odds. One of the main reasons for the Baggies' fine showing was "winger-cum-striker" Peter Odemwingie, who arrived at The Hawthorns last year and was an instant hit with the fans. Why not? The prolific and Tashkentborn Nigerian, 30, scored 15 goals in 32 league games and he is set to play another big role for West Brom in the new season under vastly experienced manager Roy Hodgson. Odemwingie, in his exploits last season, was well assisted by midfielder Chris Brunt who played more of a
back-up striker. This attacking combination will pose threat to even the best defence in the new season if they maintain their form. And Hodgson will have another option in newly-signed attacker from Reading in Shane Long. West Brom are to rely on a new backline as well. Ben Foster comes in and the former Manchester United and Birmingham goalkeeper is the new No 1 and he brings a considerable amount of league experience with him. They have also signed Billy Jones and Garth McAuley to address their needs across the back four. The West Brom defence should be tighter at the back this time.
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 AUGUST, 2011
their record transfer fee they paid £17m for David Bentley — but Hulk’s relatively low salary would fit into the club’s wage structure. What if this ambitious move fails? This has always been the case when Spurs try to get a big name striker. It is back to Defoe, Crouch and Pavlyuchenko again. Spurs strikers coach Les Ferdinand, however, is convinced they have the firepower to compete with the best. The fans must be praying hard for
this to happen. Misfiring strikers aside, Spurs boast of quality in the attacking aspect in midfield with van der Vaart, Bale, Luka Modric and Aaron Lennon around. Even defensive midfielders Sandro and Tom Huddlestone can be effective when it comes to providing problems to opponents. Playmaker Modric is the star man in this department and it would be a big blow to Spurs if the Croatia international moves to Chelsea. But life goes on. In defence, watch out for the talented rightback Kyle Walker who was called up to the England squad for the cancelled friendly against Holland. The 21-year-old, who was on loan to Aston Villa last season, has been performing well and can command a regular spot at the expense of Vedran Corluka or Alan Hutton. The defence, led by Michael Dawson, is still reliable. Goalkeepers? Spurs have signed up veteran Brad Friedel to have inconsistent Heurelho Gomes on his toes.
WEST BROMWICH ALBION ODEMWINGIE
NICKNAME: Albion, The Baggies, The Throstles, West Brom, WBA FOUNDED: 1878 HOME: The Hawthorns CAPACITY: 28,003 MANAGER: Roy Hodgson THE SQUAD GOALKEEPERS Ben Foster Marton Fulop Luke Daniels DEFENDERS Joe Mattock Jonas Olsson Marek Cech Pablo Ibanez Gonzalo Jara Nicky Shorey Gareth McAuley Craig Dawson James Hurst Billy Jones Gabriel Tamas Liam O'Neil Cameron Gayle MIDFIELDERS Somen Tchoyi James Morrison Chris Brunt Steven Reid Jerome Thomas Graham Dorrans Youssuf Mulumbu Zolten Gera Sam Mantom George Thorne Paul Scharner Paul Downing Romaine Sawyers Kayeldon Brown Kemar Roofe STRIKERS Roman Bednar Ishmael Miller Peter Odemwingie Simon Cox Marc-Antoine Fortune Adil Nabi Saido Berahino Lateef Elford-Alliyu Shane Long TRANSFER (Thus far) IN Shane Long (Reading, £6.5m), Zoltan Gera (Fulham, free), Marton Fulop (Ipswich, free), Gareth McAuley (Ipswich, free), Billy Jones (Preston, free), Ben Foster (Birmingham, loan). OUT Scott Carson (Bursaspor, £2.1m), Borja Valero (Villarreal, undisclosed), Abdoulaye Meite (Dijon, free), Gianni Zuiverloon (Real Mallorca, free), Giles Barnes (Doncaster, free), Dean Kiely (retired), Boaz Myhill (Birmingham, loan), Chris Wood (Birmingham, loan). (Transfer window closes on Aug 31) LAST SEASON'S POSITION 11th PLAYERS TO WATCH Peter Odemwingie, Chris Brunt, Ben Foster PREDICTION To fight for 10th to 14th spots HONOURS DIVISION ONE/PREMIER LEAGUE WINNERS 1920 DIVISION ONE RUNNERS-UP 1925, 1954 FA CUP WINNERS 1888, 1892, 1931, 1954, 1968 FA CUP RUNNERS-UP 1886, 1887, 1895, 1912, 1935 LEAGUE CUP WINNERS 1966 LEAGUE CUP RUNNERS-UP 1967, 1970 CHARITY SHIELD WINNERS 1920, 1954 (shared) CHARITY SHIELD RUNNERS-UP 1931, 1968
sports
I needed to play football, I do this job because I love football -- Newcastle United winger Gabriel Obertan
The Malay Mail Thursday 11 August, 2011
PRESSTALK
MANCHESTER: FOOTBALL/ PREMIER LEAGUE
Berba the entertainer
MANCHESTER UNITED striker Dimitar Berbatov (pic) feels it is his main duty as a player in the Premier League to provide entertainment. The former Tottenham hitman and leading goalscorer last season, admitted that he often gets bored with dull matches, prompting him to turn of his television. The Buglarian said he would much rather watch exciting, attacking matches.
"I am always ready to entertain," he told MUTV. "It's because, when I watch a game I don't like to see people falling asleep during it if it's a boring game. "Even if I watch a game, if it's boring for me, it doesn't matter if it's Real Madrid, Barcelona or some other big club playing, I just switch off the TV. "I don't like boring games, I want entertainment and that's
what the fans want as well. "That's what we try to give them and I can only speak about myself and try to give entertainment to everybody. "It doesn't matter if it's a goal or the way I play, this is the first thing I try to do and that is what the boss is trying to tell us before games as well. "I like to enjoy the game even though we must work hard and concentrate as well." — Agencies
BUKIT DAMANSARA: FOOTBALL/ Premier League
Devils will prevail United are favourites to retain title, says Parker
Q: Who do you fancy to be crowned champions next May and why? A: Manchester United. They won last season but weren’t as impressive as they could have been. Last season was the best chance for the rest to win the title but they squandered it. Alex Ferguson would have
analysed his team well and would have told the lads on what areas needed to be improved on. It’s either they improve or Ferguson wouldn't hesitate to replace them. Q: So the signings United made, coupled with the youngsters already at the club, could be a catalyst for success this season? A: Definitely. The club have gone out and bought players to meet their needs. We have seen in the Community Shield that he has trust in the players. They surely didn’t disappoint. Ashley Young and Phil Jones are players who have proved they can play up to a certain standard in England. They have room to improve and by training with better players daily, they will. Younger players just need to look at Javier He r n and e z as an example. He delivere d w hen it mattered and Ferguson soon made him a starte r. C h r i s Smalling and Tom Cleverly are pl ayers with great potential too. United played arguably the best 45 minutes in the whole of last season with young players and hopefully that is a sign of things to come.
By VIJHAY VICK vijhayvick@mmail.com.my
PAUL PARKER is no stranger to avid English Premier League followers in Malaysia. The ESPN pundit spoke to Mailsport’s VIJHAY VICK in an exclusive interview on the new season. The rightback played for Fulham and Queens Park Rangers before enjoying his best years with Manchester United from 1991-1996, where he won two league titles, one League Cup and one FA Cup. Towards the end of his career, he had short stints with Derby County, Sheffield United, Fulham and Chelsea. Parker, a former England international, was met during ESPN STAR Sports' launch of their shows for the new season yesterday.
Q: With the youth players heading in the right direction, do United need Wesley Sneijder? A: If we judge what happened last season, yes! He has the ability to add the extra edge United lacked in away games. But I’m not sure if it will be the right thing to do. Big money will be involved if he does sign. This will probably make him the highest paid player. Besides upsetting the financial balance, it could create discomfort in the dressing room.
also stop players running the dressing room. They have several ageing players and must focus on bringing in younger players to the club. The set of players he has are good, but how long can they last?
Q: Who would be the possible teams to challenge for the title? A: Chelsea and Manchester City.
Q: Is Roberto Mancini the person to lead City to glory? A: I don’t think so. They have to challenge for the title this season, but after finishing third last time out and judging by last week’s showing against United, I don’t see that happening. Mancini is still a negative man and deploys negative tactics. They have too many negative players too.
Q: Chelsea have not signed any big names thus far. How different will they line up under new manager Andre Villas-Boas? A: It all depends if he’s given the chance to manage and not being a mere puppet to the people above him. We will be able to see that if he takes big decisions like dropping players, etc. He must
Q: What should be done at City then? A: It’s very simple... play more attacking football. Sergio 'Kun' Aguero is a talented boy but he will need time to adapt in the English league. Furthermore, he’s likely to play alone up front. With many defensive players behind him, it is going to be difficult.
31
Q: What about Liverpool and Arsenal? A: It’s going to be the same story for Arsenal. Many of their fans are going to be left in tears and anger. Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri might leave. Many will want to follow suit. There hasn’t been a big signing and it could be disastrous if Arsene Wenger doesn’t replace the duo. As for Liverpool, they have problems at the back that they need to solve. Safee Sali ripped them apart when they played Malaysia. They have bought players with potential but what they need is an instant fix. Q: Tottenham finished fifth last season. Can they push into the top four? A: No way. Harry Redknapp is not the manager to push them further. They will probably finish in the same position again. They had a good opportunity last season but wasted it. Q: Who do you think will be the signing of the season? A: That’s difficult. I have to look at all the teams. Signing of the season may not necessarily be the best player but also could be who was most influential. I’m tipping Phil Jones to impress. He doesn’t really give away many fouls. He can play in a defensive midfield role as well and that could help United. Q: Who is likely to be the first managerial casualty? A: Alan Pardew. They have lost some players and are yet to replace them. They are unlikely to perform considering the dressing room unrest they’ve been having. He also took charge against public opinion and the fans will surely add more pressure.
DAILY STAR (LEBANON)
Eto'o closer to exit SAMUEL ETO'O (pic) took a step closer to signing for Anzhi Makhachkala after Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti said he would consider an "interesting" offer from the Russian club for the Cameroon star. The two clubs met on Tuesday and Wednesday while Eto'o's agent, Claudio Vigorelli, is alleged to have said in the Russian media that an agreement between Anzhi and the player has been all but reached. "You could say the offer is interesting, intelligent, fair and reflective of the player's worth," said Moratti. Although Eto'o finished as the club's top scorer last season and helped Inter win the treble the year before, the Serie A giants are said to be pushing to sell him in order to finance a bid for Manchester City's Carlos Tevez.
TODAY'S ZAMAN
Atletico snatch Arda
GALATASARAY have announced they have reached an agreement with Atletico Madrid for the transfer of winger Arda Turan. The Turkey international has long been a target of Atletico, with Galatasaray first announcing in March they had begun negotiations with the Spanish capital club for the transfer of the 24-yearold. Talks between the two clubs then hit a brick wall, but Atletico never stopped keeping an eye on Turan, who is keen on proving himself in a more high-profile league.
THE TIMES OF INDIA
Roma fans attack player GHANAIAN midfielder Ahmed Barusso was involved in a frightening attack by disgruntled Roma fans following training, his agent revealed yesterday. The 26-year-old's car was kicked by several fans as he left Roma's Trigoria training complex on Tuesday as fans shouted at him to leave the club. Barusso has spent four years at Roma but has made only three league appearances. As he is from a non-EU country he is occupying one of the limited spaces in the squad allowed for other players.
Holder hits wall DEFENDING champ Caroline Wozniacki was eliminated from the Rogers Cup in the biggest upset of the Thursday 11 August, 2011 tournament
Berba bowls ‘em over
>> pg28
MANCHESTER UNITED forward Dimitar Berbatov feels it is his main duty as a Premier League player to excite
Aquliani stunner BARI: FOOTBALL/ INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLIES
Italy shock world champions Spain
FORMER world champions Italy stunned the team who succeeded them just over a year ago with a 2-1 victory over Spain this morning. Alberto Aquilani scored the winner six minutes from time after Riccardo Montolivo had given the hosts a deserved lead before Xabi Alonso equalised from the penalty spot. While Italy enjoyed by far the best of the opening period, Spain controlled the second half until a spate of substitutions robbed the match of any rhythm. Cesare Prandelli’s Italy can be proud of themselves, although with just two Barcelona players in Vicente Del Bosque’s starting line-up — seven started the World Cup final against Holland — it is debateable whether this really was the Spanish first team. Italy were quick out of the traps, eager to put pressure on the world champions and prevent them from establishing any rhythm. Prandelli had said the day before that he picked two deep lying forwards and no centre forward or wingers so that Italy’s central midfielders could break from deep. His tactic seemed to work
to perfection in the early stages. On four minutes a quick counter attack saw Antonio Cassano, captain for the day in his city of birth, feed Thiago Motta, who passed for Giuseppe Rossi to lay it back to Domenico Criscito to crash a rasping shot off the post with Iker Casillas beaten. It was all Italy in the early stages, sitting deep and allowing Spain possession before hitting them with rapier counter attacks. They took a deserved lead when Criscito split the defence for Montolivo to run behind Gerard Pique and chip the onrushing Casillas, the ball clipping the bar on its way down and in. Italy created another great chance but Cassano’s willingness to go down under negligible contact from Pique cost him what seemed a clear oneon-one chance with Casillas. Another ball over the top sent Rossi charging in from a wide position but Casillas stood up bravely to save with his legs. Spain were then awarded a dubious penalty when Giorgio Chiellini was adjudged to have fouled Fernando
LOCAL
Resolution forthcoming CONCERNS independent doubles pair Gan Teik Chai and Tan Bin Shen have with BAM will hopefully be ironed out by next Thursday
>> pg27
LATE VICTORY: Aquilani earns Azzurri victory against Spain — GETTY photo
BADMINTON
Birthday boy bows out
TAUFIK HIDAYAT spoiled his 30th birthday celebrations with an oddly passive second round defeat in the World Championship
>> pg28 FOOTBALL Llorente, although even TV replays proved inconclusive as to exactly what the Juventus centreback’s offence had been. Alonso clipped the ball straight down the middle from 12 yards as Gianluigi Buffon dived to his left. Late in the half Casillas’s legs came to the rescue again after Cassano used his strength to hold off Andoni Iraola before shooting from 20 yards.
Spain had been forced into making two changes during the first half with Fernando Torres coming off after a quarter of an hour and Pique leaving the pitch just before the break. They made three more changes at the break and soon after Alvaro Arbeloa tried his luck from 40 yards, the ball dipping just over as Buffon back-tracked desperately. Just past the hour mark
Spain opened up Italy but Llorente’s finish in front of an open goal was poor, although it almost crept in via a deflection off Criscito before Buffon scrambled it clear. Spain were pushing and Silva tested Buffon’s reactions before Andrea Pirlo kept substitute goalkeeper Victor Valdes busy at the other end. But then Aquilani’s weak shot deflected off Raul Albiol and left Valdes wrong-footed and Italy in raptures. — AFP
LONDON: Football/ premier league
Mersey rivals united in calls for end to rioting
Liverpool riots: Dalglish (left) and Moyes appeal for calm — GETTY photo
>> pg31
LIVERPOOL boss Kenny Dalglish and his Everton counterpart David Moyes united in calls for an end to the rioting which has spread to the city this morning. Dalglish issued a statement on Liverpool’s official website calling for a halt to the violence on Merseyside as he prepares to launch his first full season in charge at Anfield since 1990. “The city has made incredible progress over the past few years and no-one wants to see our restored reputation damaged by what we have witnessed over the last couple of days. For everyone’s sake let’s stop this now and pull together for the
benefit of the whole community,” he said. Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard reiterated his manager’s appeal. “This is a city which has always stuck together in difficult times and supported each other. If there are people thinking of going out and causing problems, then please think again,” Gerrard said. “The community doesn’t want you behaving like this.” Moyes echoed the Liverpool duo’s sentiments. “There can be no justification for the shocking display of behaviour that has been wit-
nessed throughout the city of Liverpool and the rest of the country over the past few days,” Moyes said. “As a result of recent events, football has already suffered and we need to ensure that this stops immediately so thousands of people up and down the country can enjoy one of the most anticipated weekends of the year — the start of the Premier League season,” he addded. Premier League chiefs are due to decide tomorrow on whether or not to postpone matches this weekend as a result of the rioting. — AFP
Germans impressive
GOTZE
GERMANY romped to a 3-2 victory over Brazil in a friendly where all the goals came in the last half hour
>> pg29 PRESSTALK
Turkish delight
WINGER Arda Turan has signed for Atletico Madrid from Galatasaray of Turkey
Published by Malay Mail Sdn Bhd (239512V), Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, and printed by The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad (4485-H), 31, Jalan Riong, 59100 KL
>> pg31