19 May 2011

Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

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A rape every 2.5 hours

KUALA LUMPUR

... and most victims are minors, according to Bukit Aman, in its shocking statistics on various sex crimes, disclosed to ‘The Paper That Cares’

By ANDREW SAGAYAM andrew@mmail.com.my

EVERY two-and-a-half hours, there is a woman somewhere in the country that gets raped, according to the Federal police’s sexual crimes and child abuse investigations division’s figures.

In the latest sex crime statistics provided exclusively to The Malay Mail, we learnt an average of 10 women become victims of rape everyday.

It works out to an average of a woman raped once every two-and-a-half hours.

From 2006, the number of rape cases has been steadily escalating from 2,431 to 3,098 in 2007, 3,409 in 2008 and 3,626 in 2009. Last year, however, the number dropped slightly to 3,595 cases. (see accompanying table) “Despite the decrease last

year, the statistics are still worrying,” said the division’s deputy director, ACP Hamidah Yunus.

While it is shocking to learn from the figures that the majority or 73 per cent of rape victims are girls under 18 years, a more disturbing fact is that there are way more suspects than there are victims.

“This is because in some of the reports we received, the case would involve more than one suspect,” said Hamidah.

In the last five years, 20,255 rape suspects above 18 years old were identified in 16,159 reported cases, making them the majority in comparison to the 3,061 juvenile sus-

Letters & Opinions ON PG10

pects.

As for the perfect crime scene, it was learnt that most often rape crimes would take place in houses.

“Suspects or perpetrators are usually known to the victims, which explains why rapes often happen in homes, be it the victim’s or the suspect’s,” said Hamidah.

The past five years’ records show 11,064 rape incidents took place in residences, 2,900 in public places, 1,362 in hotels and budget hotels, 580 in vehicles and 252 case in “unknown places”.

The statistics also revealed worrying figures for crimes of molest, incest, sodomy and domestic violence.

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Traffic conditions in KL

Bus lanes and other traffic banes

Sex crime victims YEAR Rape Domestic Violence Molest Incest Sodomy In 2006, the number of domestic violence cases reported were 3,264. It went up to 3,756 in 2007 and 3,769 in 2008, before dropping to 3,643 in 2009 and 3,173 last year.

For molest cases, 1,972 cases were reported in 2006,

Hotline is now two pages daily

2006 2,431 3,264 1,972 332 180

2007 3,098 3,756 2,243 359 238

2008 3,409 3,769 2,131 334 243

2,243 (2007), 2,131 (2008), 2,110 (2009) and 2,054 last year.

For incest, the total reported cases in 2006 were 332, 359 in 2007, 334 (2008), 385 (2009) and 413 incidents throughout last year.

‘Gazebo gang’ worry residents >> pg8

2009 3,626 3,643 2,110 385 227

2010 3,595 3,173 2,054 413 218

For sodomy, the year 2006 reported 180 cases, 238 in 2007, 243 in 2008, a slight drop in 2009 to 227 cases and a further decrease to 218 cases last year. ● See also pg2

No light at the end of biker’s tunnel >> pg9

2

Victims don't like to talk about their rape experience — Bukit Aman's ACP Hamidah Yunus

news

KUALA LUMPUR

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

Re-enacting rape Cops try fresh approach to get evidence from victims By andrew sagayam mmnews@mmail.com.my

Not many rape cases get to see the light of day in court.

It is a sad scenario, and Bukit Aman sexual crimes and child abuse investigations division deputy director ACP Hamidah Yunus attributed this to several factors.

"Firstly, the public does not always come forward with the information we need. The apathy of the public to report such cases is also not helping."

At other times, it would be the victims themselves who are not able to help the authorities much.

"Some could not identify their offenders or find it extremely difficult to express themselves in describing their perpetrators."

"When evidence is insufficient, it would be tough to prosecute, much less convict, a suspect."

To carry out more effective investigations, the police have recently opted for a more sensitive method in trying to get the victims to open up by reenacting the incident.

"Many are afraid to tell how the incident happened. Victims don't like to talk about their rape experience," she said.

"The re-enactment method does improve things. Even if the victims don't explain the incident vocally, they do acknowledge by agreeing or disagreeing with what they see in the re-enactment process.

This is when the police get to record their take on the incident."

Previously, some of the techniques known to be used by police in handling rape victims included video recording of the victim's statement as well as assigning psychologists

or cousellors to give emotional support.

It is understood that while the conventional video-recording helps in nailing the suspect for prosecution as it is solid evidence, it puts victims in the spotlight and they may not want to disclose much on their trauma.

With those under 18 years being more prone to rape, Hamidah said it is especially important for teenagers to be aware of the situation.

She said even though the sex may be consensual, but because of the girl's age, it is still considered statutory rape.

"This is the law. If you are 16 and below, it is statutory rape whether or not the girl said 'yes'.

"Parents should also educate sons to respect the opposite sex and not take advantage of them."

Ages of rape victims and suspects YEAR 2006 Victims (below 18) 1,710 (above 18) 721 Suspects (below 18) 356 (above 18) 3,397

2007 2,234 864 533 4,053

2008 2,507 902 651 4,124

2009 2,700 926 784 4,350

2010 2,658 937 737 4,331

Sex crime locations

Home/Building

Hotel/Inn

Public places

Vehicle

Unknown

YEAR 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Friends split by court decision

By EE ANN NEE ean@mmail.com.my

IT was a bittersweet moment for two friends charged with drug trafficking after one was sent to prison while the other was released by the Shah Alam High Court yesterday.

Fazizol Mohd Razali, 25, and Mohd Zuhaili Husen, 29, were both initially charged with trafficking under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, which carries the mandatory death sentence upon conviction.

However, Fazizol, a gardener, pleaded guilty to an alternative charge, under Section 6 of the Dangerous Drugs Act, for trafficking in 216 grammes of cannabis at the car park of the Seri Sementa flats in Kapar, Klang, about 10.45pm on Feb 21, 2009, while Mohd Zuhaili,

a grille-maker, was granted a discharge not amounting to an acquittal.

Fazizol was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 10 strokes of the rotan by judge Datuk Abdul Rahim Uda. Following the sentence, both the accused broke down and hugged each other.

Their mothers could not hold back tears and, after the court adjourned, ran to Fazizol and Mohd Zuhaili and hugged them.

Fazizol’s mother, housewife Saonah Mardi, 50, said she had no idea of his activities until the duo were detained by police.

She said Fazizol was hardly at home and could have been involved in drugs because of the influence of friends.

The Malay Mail is published by Malay Mail Sdn Bhd, Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200, Petaling Jaya

Fazizol’s brother, who declined to give his name, said: "We're sad but what can we do? We need to accept the facts."

Mohd Zuhaili’s mother, who only wanted to be known as Zaharah, 60, said she felt sad for Fazizol as he was her son’s friend.

“I will ask my son to be a better person,” she said.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Public Prosecutor Khairul Fikrie Ahmad Zubaidi, while counsel Azizul Shariman Mat Yusof and Suzanawati Ismail represented Fazizol and Mohd Zuhaili, respectively.

The judge ordered Fazizol’s sentence to run from his date of arrest on Feb 21, 2009.

EDITORIAL Tel : 03-79472288 Fax : 03-79605096 Email : mmnews@mmail.com.my

Rape 1,607 2,075 2,397 2,513 2,472 188 256 284 326 308 500 579 558 638 625 91 123 116 100 150 45 65 54 49 39

Molest 1,082 1,312 1,223 1,266 1,226 14 65 57 47 47 741 734 732 690 654 109 129 113 94 122 0 3 6 13 5

Sodomy 135 171 170 184 156 4 10 5 3 6 39 42 56 26 44 1 7 6 7 6 1 1 6 7 6

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GUILTY: Fazizol is led away by police at the Shah Alam High Court after being sentenced to 10 years jail and 10 strokes of the rotan

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She has been going to school as usual. Her mother is keeping a close eye on her — Bully victim Wong's uncle

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

SUBANG JAYA

Two nabbed after high-speed chase

By T.H. Teoh mmnews@mmail.com.my

QUICK ac tion and a high-speed chase from Bandar Sunway to Kelana Jaya yesterday saw police nab two burglary suspects, who then led p olice to make eig ht more arrests.

The 10 suspects, aged between 17 and 23, confessed to being responsible for at least nine house break-in cases in USJ and Puchong.

Ac ting Subang Jaya O C P D D S P Te n g k u Anuar Raja Hussin said two suspects were spotted by Bandar Sunway policemen on their rounds.

“The two men behaved suspiciously in their silver Proton Iswara along Jalan Lagoon Selatan in Bandar Sunway.

“When our men signalled them to stop, the suspects fled in their car towards Section 5 in Kelana Jaya where they finally came to a halt when two other police vehicles from Subang Jaya and Petaling Jaya blocked their escape.”

Te ng ku A nu ar s ai d infor mat ion gat hered from questioning the duo led to the arrest of eight other suspects. Some of the stolen goods were also recovered from one of the suspect’s house. “ The suspects are believed to use ski masks to hide their identity when committing crimes.

So far, nine cases have been found related to this group’s activities.

They are being detained for further questioning.”

BRICKFIELDS

'I forgive them' KUALA LUMPUR

Wong bears no grudge against her bullies, wants to forget recent past and remain at present school

By THASHA JAYAMANOGARAN thasha@mmail.com.my

bully victim Wong of SMK Raja Abdullah forgives her aggressors and wants to put the past behind her.

The 14-year-old said the four bullies were her primary schoolmates whom she had a soft spot. Besides, she also likes her present school.

When The Malay Mail contacted her uncle yesterday, he said this niece was back to being her normal self at school.

"She has been going to school as usual. Her mother

is keeping a close eye on her by sending her to and fetching her back from school. " She d o e s not sp e a k about being transferred to another school. Instead she told her mother she wants to remain at her present school and forget about the recent past."

Wo n g w a s s l a p p e d , splashed with water, strangled by a neck tie, hit on the head with books and had her hair clipped by the bullies.

Her plight came to light when the incident was recorded and made available via Facebook and YouTube, evoking both public sympathy and anger.

The victim was also sarcastically called "siao hua" (the most beautiful girl) by the bullies.

The reason for the bullying was because she was the quiet type and slow in studies.

The four female students who intimidated her were suspended from school for

a fortnight. They return next week.

Last week, three of the bullies, accompanied by their parents, shook hands and apologised to Wong and her family at a closeddoor meeting witnessed by Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Wee Ka Siong, Kepong MP Tan Seng Giaw, Batu MP Tian Chua and school representatives.

It was learnt they were also scheduledfor counselling before returning to school.

KUALA LUMPUR

'Drilling' his way into trouble

STEALING power drills was his speciality.

This eventually did him in when he stole his last power tool from a shop at Taman Yulex in Cheras here last week.

In all, he stole 13 drills and three chainsaws, worth RM15,000, which police recovered from the boot of his car.

Brickfields police chief, Assistant Commissioner Wan Abdul Bari Wan Abdul Khalid said the 29-year-old suspect stole because power drills were much-soughtafter.

"We believe he stole power tools and sold them to a second-hand dealer over the past four months," he said.

"He targeted such tools left unattended at construction sites, homes and shops."

His crime spree ended

STOLEN GOODS: Wan Bari holds one of the power tools recovered from the suspect

when the owner of the shop at Taman Yulex, upon returning from lunch, saw the suspect walking out with an unpaid hand drill.

The owner alerted the police who arrested the suspect.

Checks revealed the suspect had a record for stealing motorbikes. He is now

being investigated for other crimes.

The suspect has been remanded until tomorrow to facilitate investigations.

Scream if you are stopped by bogus cops

IF you doubt a person who asks you to produce your MyKad is a policeman, scream and attract public attention.

This tactic puts bogus cops to flight, said Brickfields police chief ACP Wan Bari Wan Abdul Khalid.

He gave the advice following a case of a lorry driver, who was duped of RM150 by a man claiming to be a policeman at a petrol station last week.

"If you're not at fault and you suspect some-

thing amiss with a cop who stopped you, scream and attract attention from people around you for help."

Wan Bari said the public had every right to ask for the police authority card to be shown if they were not convinced.

"The public fail to realise it is within their rights to ask for authority card to be shown. You should not be scared of the police if you have not done anything wrong."

In the latest incident, the lorry driver was about to enter a petrol station convenience week when he was confronted by a man wearing what seemed a police jacket and an object protruding like a gun from the side of his slacks.

The bogus cop threatened the victim, claiming he would be accused with several 'made-up' criminal allegations if he did not give the money to the imposter.

The victim who had no

money during the incident was told to get it from home while the bogus cop held onto his cellphone and identification card till he got back to a said location.

The victim returned to meet the suspect outside the Jalan Travers police station and gave the money to the imposter. He then walked into the police station, convincing the victim was a cop.

After 10 minutes, the man came out and returned

the two items to the victim who was instructed to leave immediately.

It was only later that same night did the victim realise something was amiss and decided to lodge a police report.

Police nabbed the suspect loitering around Brickfields yesterday morning .

Inve st i g at i ons fou nd the 40-year-old man was involved in 10 drug-related offences. The suspect will be remanded till Saturday to facilitate investigations.

news

3

Militants attack checkpoint SCORES of Islamist militants armed with rifles and rocket launchers attacked a Pakistani police checkpoint before dawn yesterday, killing two officers and wounding five others, police said. There was no confirmation of casualties among the militants as police said they fled after the furious shootout, which took officers 40 minutes to fend off in the suburbs of the northwestern city of Peshawar. Police said they repelled an initial attack about midnight after about 15-20 minutes, but another group of 70 Taliban fighters armed with guns and rocket launchers again laid siege at around 2.15am. — AFP

This is not the pony express!

A TRAIN operator says a customer attempted to board a train in Wales with his pony. Arriva Train Wales said yesterday that the bizarre incident was captured on security cameras at a rail station in Wrexham, northern Wales.

Staff said the man attempted to board the train — bound for Holyhead, the home of Prince William and his new wife — on Saturday evening. Images show the customer leading the large white pony along a station platform, then waiting patiently for a train. — AP

US imposes sanctions on Assad WASHINGTON imposed sanctions on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and other senior officials yesterday in a dramatic escalation of pressure on Syria to halt a violent crackdown on prodemocracy protests. Assad had been partly rehabilitated in the West over the last three years but Western powers have condemned his use of force to quell protests against his 11 years in power, killing at least 700 civilians according to rights groups.

Targeting Assad personally with sanctions, which the US and the European Union had previously avoided, is a significant slap at Damascus and raises questions about whether the West may ultimately seek Assad's removal from power. — Reuters

4

news

My dogs are licensed and the council officers had no right to enter my property without permission — Dog owner S. Gunasegar

KUALA LUMPUR

... and the calls keep coming in for child adoptions

By T.K. Letchumy Tamboo t.k.letchumy@mmail.com.my

THE phones were ringing non-stop yesterday at the Social Welfare Department in Jalan Raja Laut following The Malay Mail's front page story on the child adoption programme.

The department's deputy director, Fatimah Zuraidah Salleh, said prospective foster parents had called up the department to find out more on the programme and some were also surprised to find

out it was so easy to adopt a child.

“Our phone lines were kept busy throughout the day after the report was highlighted.

Readers interested in adopting a child bombarded us with questions such as the application process. They cannot believe how easy it is to adopt children.”

A happy Faridah congratulated and thanked The Paper That Cares for the report.

“Our aim is to help as many potential adoptive parents as possible to adopt a child and live a happy life.

“The Malay Mail helped us to reach the public with this message.”

Fatimah's comment came following our report yesterday regarding a revelation by the department on the traits most desired by potential adoptive parents which, among others, include fair-skinned, curly-

haired, chubby and healthy babies, preferably below the age of one.

The report also highlighted the process of adoption and the requirements needed to adopt a child.

The department's deputy director general (planning), Inau Edin Nom, had earlier told The Paper That Cares that the adoption process under the department was straightforward and it only takes a

month or two to match successful applicants to the best possible child, depending on the child's availability.

According to the department's statistics, the number of applicants to adopt children in 2008 was 119. The figure increased to 127 in 2009 and 180 last year.

As of last year, there are 69 children from the department's 12 children's homes ready for adoption.

Not a dog's world in Selayang

GOMBAK

Family claims two pet canines ill-treated by council officers

By CECILIA VICTOR cecilia@mmail.com.my

A FAMILY has alleged their pet dogs were forcefully taken from their home in Taman Seri Gombak by Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) enforcement officers and beaten at its pound despite having valid licences.

S. Gunasegar, 48, said his dogs, an Irish Terrier and a Chihuahua mixed breed named Tiger and Tommy respectively, suffered body and leg injuries as a result of the beatings.

“My veterinarian told me that the injuries to my pets were consistent with beatings using a sharp object,” he told The Malay Mail.

Gunasegar said his neigh-

bours told him the council officers came to his house about 10.30am on May 4 when he and his family were on holiday in Malacca.

“My house gate was left unlocked and the officers had barged in and took hold of my dogs without any prior notice given,” he said, adding the council officers said they took his pets due to complaints by neighbours irritated by the constant barking.

“I had to pay a RM200 fine but my two pets, which used to be so lively, looked lifeless when I brought them back on May 6.”

His daughter Molly, 23, said: “Tommy's thick hair

had to be shaved off so that the veterinarian could take a closer look at its skin injuries due to the beating. The two days our dogs were at the pound also traumatised both, and Tiger, which is one and a half years old, also fainted.”

Gunasegar said he wanted an apology and RM5,000 as compensation from the council for the ill-treatment of his pets.

“My dogs are licensed and the council officers had no right to enter my property without permission.”

At Press time, the council could not be reached for comment.

SAY SORRY: Molly (left) and brother Pavithiran want the council to apologise

SUBANG JAYA

You can sue even if you accept compensation, says council

By Shahrim Tamrin shahrimtamrin@mmail.com.my

OFFERING insurance compensation to the family of 11-year-old Muhammad Naquiddin Mohd Marzuki, who was electrocuted to death by a faulty lamp post at a playground in Taman Batu Tiga on March 19, is not an attempt by the Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) to stop the family from taking action against them.

The council's asset management and valuation department director, Raja Amir Iskandar Raja Azlan, said the

letter signed by him and dated May 10 that was delivered to the victim's family was part of its standard operating procedure under its Public Liability Insurance Policy.

“Whenever a member of the public is affected by the council's public property, it is normal for us to offer compensation or for the public to claim compensation from us,” said Raja Amir, when contacted by The Malay Mail.

“Should Naquiddin's family want to sue MPSJ, they have ev-

ery right to do so. The council's offer of insurance compensation to the family is a different matter altogether.”

Raja Amir said there had been several cases where the council had compensated members of the public.

“For instance, members of the public could request for insurance compensation from the council if their vehicles were damaged by fallen trees or potholes or if they suffer injuries from such incidents. The compensation could be reim-

bursement for repairs on the vehicle or medical bills due to injuries.

“However, in Naquiddin’s case, this is the first time we are facing a possible death insurance claim. We decided to offer insurance compensation to Naquiddin's family after receiving a report from our insurers, PNSB Insurance Brokers Sdn Bhd.” Raja Amir urged Naquiddin's family to provide the requested documents in order to expedite the processing of the insurance

compensation.

“There is nothing for Naquiddin's family to worry about. Even the council's deputy president, Abdullah Marjunid, had also said Naquiddin's family could take legal action against MPSJ after they receive the insurance compensation, if they wish to do so.”

Last Friday, The Malay Mail reported Naquiddin's father, Mohd Marzuki Muda, was undecided on his next course of action after receiving the May 10 letter from the council.

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 May, 2011

PETALING JAYA

Media not ready for self-regulation

By Azreen Hani azreenhani@mmail.com.my

THE print media in Malaysia still needs to be governed by the law rather than self-regulate.

This is the stand of Home Minister Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Hussein in response to the call by the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) for the government to revoke the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984 (PPPA) and let the media to practise self-regulation instead.

“We need the law as only with that can we amend matters to suit the times and maturity of the media and our people. Our paramount concern is unity and the safety of all Malaysians.”

Despite the strict guidelines under the Act, the minister had previously been reported as having expressed an opinion newspapers could be given more flexibility under the law.

Asked when the print media could be seen as being prepared for the responsibility of self-regulation, Hishamuddin said: “We will have a better idea whether they are prepared after I see them on the latest Utusan Malaysia and Christianity issue.”

He had been reported to be planning to meet chief editors of newspapers for a discussion on the matter.

Last week, the Home Ministry had given a stern warning to Utusan Malaysia, following their front page report headlined, “Kristian agama rasmi?”(Christianity official religion?)

The newspaper was reprimanded for the report, which cited blogger postings, that a plan had allegedly been hatched for Christianity to be the country’s official religion instead of Islam.

NUJ secretary-general V. Anbalagan, in a statement yesterday, had said the newspaper industry should be able to decide on its own path.

He said the newspaper industry had been restricted somewhat by the Act, which restricted the freedom of speech, expression and information.

However, NUJ retained the stand that newspapers should not sensationalise or publish inaccurate news which would result in friction among people of different races, religion, languages and cultures.

He had also pointed out that on July 7 last year, the Human Rights Commission (Suhakam) had called for the setting up of an independent media council.

Thursday 19 May, 2011

the malay mail

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I don't want to be kedekut (stingy) with my knowledge and experience. I think I have a lot to share — Datuk Sharifah Aini on her vocal school plans

news

Students consider prostitution

KUALA LUMPUR

Elanne Kong putting on a bold front

HONG KONG singer-actress Elanne Kong (pic) is happy with herself these days, especially after enhancement of her assets.

Kong, recently in Penang for a film shoot, unabashedly admitted having a successful breast enhancement regime KUALA LUMPUR

recently. Needless to say, the young starlet is so far, happy with the result.

Appearing in a sexy turquoise blue velvet dress, Kong, who recently returned to Hong Kong after the Penang shoot, revealed her bust size went

from a modest "A" to a satisfying "B" cup size in just a month.

On her secret regime, Kong said: "I massage my breasts every night before going to sleep. I hope they'll continue to grow in size. My target is

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

to reach either "B" or "C" cup size."

Kong is due to appear in a local movie, The Wedding Diary, directed by Adrian Teh. Her co-star includes Malaysia's Ah Niu. The film is set for release this year.

Lat on the silver screen

ONE in three university students in Berlin, Germany, would consider sex work as a means to finance their education, a study from the Berlin Studies Centre said yesterday. The figure in Berlin, where prostitution is legal, was higher than students surveyed in Paris (29.2 per cent) and in Kiev (18.5 per cent), the three cities the report looked at. The study found some four per cent of the 3,200 students surveyed said they had already done some form of sex work, which includes prostitution, erotic dancing and Internet shows. — Reuters

Funnyman Harith Iskander transforming 'Lat Kampung Boy The Musical' into movie

By JANIS SEET janis@mmail.com.my

LOVING IT: An excited Harith talking about his movie on Lat Kampung Boy The Musical

STAGE show Lat Kampung Boy The Musical, which recently enjoyed a successful run at Istana Budaya, will soon be more accessible to the masses, thanks to the effort of popular comedian Harith Iskander, who is now transforming the script, based on re-

nowned cartoonist Lat's bestselling comicbook, for the big screen.

Harith, versatile in front and behind cameras, said: "I am currently working on a screenplay that transforms Lat Kampung Boy The Musical into a movie. That idea just came to me!"

He said if everything went well, the movie should be ready for release next year.

While Harith might be ac-

PETALING JAYA

Sharifah Aini to open vocal school

By EENA HOUZYAMA eena@mmail.com.my

AFTER 42 years in entertainment, Datuk Sharifah Aini (pic) or popularly known as Kak Pah, is now in talks to open her own vocal school. Now in the planning stage, it is set to open this year.

Sharifah said she wanted to create a platform where she could share her years of experience in the entertainment industry with the younger generation interested in pursuing a career in entertainment.

"I want to be able to still be part of the industry even as my singing career slows down. I feel this is the best way not only to share what I have learnt over the years and yet have a business that would sustain my brand," she told The Malay Mail in an exclusive interview.

She said the school would not only focus on vocal training but many other areas associated with being an artiste, such as how to sustain one's brand, communication skills and grooming.

"I hope my school will be able to create singers who have the whole package to be a last-

ing entertainer."

Although in talks with a well-known vocal coach in setting up the school, Kak Pah is not ready to reveal with the former's identity.

"I plan to include people well experienced in the industry to join in and give talks at my school. This will provide students with an overall education in terms of being an artiste.

Truth is, many young artistes are still inexperienced when it comes to the entertainment business. It isn't all about glamour, an artiste needs to be able to communicate with their audience."

Those who are keen to be students at Kak Pah's

soon to be established vocal school, can expect to gain from the knowledge, tips and secrets to Kak

Pah's success over the years.

"I don't want to be kedekut (stingy) with my knowledge and experience. I think I have a lot to share. This will be the best way for me to give back to everyone who supported me over the years."

tively writing scripts and directing, fans probably would not be seeing much of him in front of a camera anytime soon.

"I do not really like acting.

I prefer to be on the live stage or directing movies and theatre. In acting, there is a lot of waiting time. It is 90 per cent waiting, 10 per cent working.

I like to be more involved. I would rather be 90 per cent working."

On another note, Harith, who married model Jezamin Lim last year, admitted they were now trying for a baby.

The couple just returned from a seven-day honeymoon in Mauritius.

"I am from the old school, which also means that once I get married, I want kids! I would love to have two girls, but my wife wants two boys, so we just have to see how that goes."

KUALA LUMPUR

Ex-Bond girl campaigns against drink driving

By LOONG WAI TING waiting@mmail.com.my

AS the high-kicking Bond girl in 1997's Tomorrow Never Dies, Ipoh-born Datuk Michelle Yeoh famously rode a motorcycle with Pierce Brosnan as James Bond in a high-speed chase.

Now, as ambassador for Make Roads Safe, initiated in 2008, she is all out campaigning against driving under influence, or DUI for short.

Make Roads Safe, a global road safety campaign supported by the United Nations, is coordinated by a London-based road safety non-governmental organisation called FIA Foundation.

The 48-year-old actress, while attending the recent opening of the Suzanne SYZ jewellery show in Hong Kong, said: "Why drive after drinking? As along as there is one accident, there will be an entire life of suffering and regret.”

She also believes those caught driving under the influence of alcohol should have their driving licence suspended, or even

terminated. "Yes, such a punishment is severe, but lives are more precious."

Yeoh, who played a lovelorn swordswoman in 2000's Oscarwinning Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, will soon feature in two new movies — the animated Kung Fu Panda 2 (opening worldwide on May 26) and biopic The Lady (to be released in October, after a world premiere at the Venice Film Festival in September).

In Kung Fu Panda 2, Yeoh lends her voice to a new character called The Soothsayer. The sequel to 2008's Kung Fu Panda again features the voices of Jack Black (title role), Jackie Chan (as Monkey) and Lucy Liu (as Viper).

In The Lady, directed by French film-maker Luc Besson, Yeoh portrays Myanmar's Nobel Peace Prize-winning pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi — a role which may well garner Yeoh an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

Beatrice's wedding hat for sale THE much-mocked hat worn by Princess Beatrice (above) to Britain's royal wedding last month — widely described as looking like a "toilet seat" — is up for sale on eBay where bids have reached £18,400 (RM90,032). The tea rose, silk hat was "the most talked about hat of the occasion" Harold Tilman, chairman of the British Fashion Council, said on eBay. The fuss over the hat seems to have taken Beatrice, who is the daughter of William's uncle Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson, by surprise too. "I've been amazed by the amount of attention the hat has attracted," Beatrice said on the auction site. "I hope whoever wins the auction has as much fun with the hat as I have." — Reuters

Thursday 19 May, 2011

the malay mail

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Thursday 19 MAY, 2011 the malay mail

your right to be heard

hotline@mmail.com.my

tel:03-7947 2288 fax: 03-7960 5096 tel:019-261 4948 (after 9pm)

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 T.K. LETCHUMY TAMBOO, IKRAM ISMAIL and CECILIA VICTOR

‘Pondok’ party not wanted

Residents fed up with shenanigans of youths who drink, fight at playground BROKEN bottles strewn about, vulgarities heard throughout the night, daily fights and irresponsible youths urinating outside your home — these do not form part of a peaceful and conducive environment one would wish to live in.

Yet this is exactly what residents along Jalan Shahbuddin 16A in Taman Sentosa, Klang, are forced to live with on a daily basis, thanks to the actions of a group of eight young men who gather nightly at a nearby playground there.

A mother-of-two, who only wishes to be known as SU, tells Hotline she and other residents have been living in fear as the youths use a small pondok wakaf (gazebo) in a playground located just opposite her home, as a gathering point every night.

"They meet there at about 10pm and remain until 2am to 3am. They speak so loudly that my children have begun picking up the vulgar words those boys use,” she says.

SU adds that residents also worry their homes and cars would be dam-

aged by the youths, who often get drunk and fight with one another, sometimes hitting each other with their helmets.

She says no one dares to stand up to the group as they will harass and threaten any resident who tries speaking to them or complaining to the authorities.

The Hotline Roving Team visited the area and found glass fragments from broken liquor bottles, cups and plates scattered around the gazebo and in the drains.

Another resident, AISHAH ALI, 35, says this nightly "party" began three years ago when a street light was installed in front of the gazebo.

"Since then, the group has been gathering with alcoholic drinks, especially on weekends and public holidays.”

"Two weeks ago, the youths threw liquor bottles into my neighbour's house because he advised them not to make so much noise," says Aishah, who moved into the area three years ago.

Another resident, ROSINAH, suggests police,

together with Klang Municipal Council officers, should patrol the area regularly.

● TAMAN Sentosa neighbourhood watch secretary MD RASID MD NOH, 58, says Jalan Shahbuddin 16A does not fall under their jurisdiction, thus they do not patrol there.

MD RASID says: "However, we welcome residents there to appoint a leader and we will then allow them to join our community volunteer patrol on weekends.”

He says it is time for residents to take responsibility and act, instead of depending on the authorities.

Meanwhile, South Klang district police chief ACP MOHAMAD MAT YUSOP says he and his officers have gone to the area to look into the allegations.

"We acknowledge the group does hang out there and we have questioned them. However, we advise the residents to lodge a police report in order for us to investigate further.”

MOHAMAD says the area will also be monitored by police from now on.

DRUNKEN HAVEN: Empty and broken liquor bottles strewn around the gazebo where the youths gather each night — Pic by Shahir Omar

Two-year P1 Wimax nightmare MEDICAL student AHMAD DANIAL SABRI is curious why he is bound to a twoyear broadband plan even though he only subscribed to a one-year plan AHMAD, tells Hotline he signed up for the P1 Wimax Internet service in October 2009 for his studies while waiting for his campus to provide Internet services.

Knowing that he would graduate in a year and a half, AHMAD decided to subscribe to a one-year-plan, and claims he clearly told the promoter so.

However, he says he only realised he had been signed to a two-year contract when he checked his online P1 Wimax account, after his account was activated.

"Since then, I have been notifying them (P1 Wimax) regarding the matter countless times.”

AHMAD alleges each time he complained of the error, he was told the matter will be forwarded to the relevant department.

Finally fed-up with waiting, AHMAD went to the P1 Wimax Selayang branch

on May 4, to terminate his account but claims he was told to pay a termination fee of RM299, as his contract would expire only in October this year.

Suprised, AHMAD says he showed the representative the original copy of his registration form.

"But the staff insisted I pay the termination fee as the system has recorded my subscription period as two years and not one year.”

The staff then suggested AHMAD go to their head office in Petaling Jaya to

settle the matter.

There, a customer service representative told AHMAD he could terminate his account without having to pay the termination fee, provided he paid RM199 for the modem rental.

“As I had only RM50 with me, I asked if I could terminate my account first so that I would not be charged further. But I was told I must pay the amount upon termination.”

AHMAD then paid for the full amount but is unhappy as he points out P1 Wimax

were the ones who made the mistake on his subscription plan.

"I was kind enough to notify them of their mistake but no action was taken.

"Why must I go through all this trouble when the problem is due to their own negligence?”

● A PACKET One Networks Sdn Bhd spokesman acknowledged that AHMAD had indeed contacted the company on Oct 30, 2009 on the incorrect duration of his contract.

"Our records also show AHMAD had sent a copy of his registration form on Nov 6, 2009 as proof.”

However, the spokesman explains AHMAD’s case was overlooked and so the correction was never made.

The spokeman says: "We regret his unpleasant experience and apologise for the inconvenience caused.

The issue has been immediately resolved.”

When contacted, AHMAD confirmed he had received an apology from P1 Wimax.

TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES: • Kuala Lumpur: 03-2615 8188 • Selangor/ Putrajaya: 03-5510 9100 • Penang: 04-2643494/ 2634941

• Ipoh: 05-255 9962/ 2772/ 1012 • Seremban: 06-7624488 • Malacca: 06-2883304/ 1549/ 3785

Riding in the dark

Thursday 19 MAY, 2011 the malay mail

Poorly-lit motorbike lanes remain due to lack of funds

His complaint prompted many motorcyclists to contact Hotline, insisting the condition of the bike lane must first be improved before expecting them to use it.

Motorcyclists voiced their fear of riding through the badly-lit tunnels as several had been mugged.

Many had also met with accidents due to the slippery tarmac and the numerous potholes.

The Hotline roving team took a ride along the Federal Highway motorcycle lane last week to observe first hand the dark and dangerous condition of the tunnels, as described by the readers.

Hotline also noted the unevenness of the lane, the drains clogged with rubbish, pools of mud, potholes, as well as damaged and slippery drain covers.

● A PWD spokesman says they are aware of the poor lighting in the tunnels of the motorcycle lane, but are unable to install more lights as they do not have the budget to do so.

Online Hotline comments www.mmail.com.my Almost normal (May 18) • HOW can the water from the bulk meter not be able to reach the water tank when water had been flowing smoothly before? There must be a reason for this. What is the reason? Why are the authorities so secretive about the reason? It seems to me someone is trying to cover up something very, very fishy. Perhaps MACC should come and check.

— Nawawi Paying for 'unauthorised' SMS subscription (May 18) • EVEN if the subscription had been cancelled, an investigation was still needed to be done as to how it was activated in the first place. If MexComm said the subscription was done on Ginger's mother's phone, then where is the proof? Show the date and time it was subscribed. The phone’s SMS history can be checked, providing the details are still there, to see if the request was generated from the phone. If not, this would be a breach of privacy by MexComm. Should this be true, they would then have made money by blatantly sending text messages to people and claiming they subscribed to their service. A company can make good money this way, that is until someone complains. Then the company could just stop and continue using other numbers. — abugaga

DANGEROUS: Tunnels flood during heavy rain and dried-up mud causes the motorcycle lane to become slippery and uneven

THE motorcycle lane along the Federal Highway is in a terrible condition but the Public Works Department (PWD) says problems such as poor lighting will remain due to budget constraints.

Bikers would have to exercise extra caution until funds become available to improve the lighting — a major bane to motorcyclists who have taken to riding on the highway itself as the bike lane is not safe.

Hotline has been inundated with calls and emails from motorcyclists who have pointed out the dangers along the lane and that they have no choice but to ride on the highway even if it is unlawful.

The long-standing issue of poor conditions along the Federal Highway bike lane came to the fore last week when motorist JAMES PINTO complained of damage to his car when two motorcyclists knocked into the rear and side of his Proton Waja within a span of two kilometres.

9

• THIS is too common. I have heard of many such cases where you receive an SMS from the so-called service provider with a notice saying that unless you respond to have the subscription cancelled, it is considered that you have accepted the service.

Many consumers unwittingly delete the SMS, and hence, become liable for the services. This is how these types of companies fleece innocent customers. Maxis and the telecommunications authorities should make such services illegal. Unless customers have responded that they want to subscribe to the service, service providers should not assume they can charge a customer merely by deeming non-response as an acceptance. There is an urgent need for laws to be changed so that unscrupulous service providers are banned. — Anonymous scary: Motorcyclists are afraid of riding through the tunnels as they are dark, even during the day.

"We are aware of this problem and are still waiting for funding to improve the lighting situation," the spokesman says.

He says the relevant department has been cleaning the lane three times

a week.

"Our team will be sent next week to investigate and should the team spot potholes and other problems as highlighted by the readers, we will take the necessary steps to fix them."

Astro disconnected four times (May 16) • Good luck, my credit card was auto-debited for someone else's account. Their explanation? It was authorised. RM361 later and no one even bothered to call me back to clarify, and certainly no refund when I complained. — budgie • Try contacting their call centre and I assure you, you will end up spending not less than 20 minutes just being passed around. Astro is B.yond redemption. It's time for another paying station to come into the picture. — Beyond the sky

Dream holiday dashed All GARY SRITHARAN longed for was a stress-free vacation with his family to Bali in Indonesia, that is, until a travel agency put a damper on his holiday mood.

"I came across a travel package to Bali for four adults and a child by a

travel agency called Smartbiz Excel Sdn Bhd while I was shopping at a mall in Ampang. It was a fourday-three-night package,” Gary tells Hotline.

He says both he and his wife thought the package was a bargain as they would only need to pay

RM600 for the entire trip after discount while the actual price was RM796.

However, when GARY went to the agency to collect his voucher, he was told that the package was valid for only two adults.

"I felt cheated," he tells Hotline as the agreement

stated the package was for four adults to travel, not two.

"I met a consultant from the agency but he could not explain what had happened.

Eventually, he stopped taking my calls when I began insisting on answers."

After being ignored by

the agency despite numerous calls, GARY is demanding a refund.

● SMARTBIZ Excel Sdn Bhd manager Eddy Sham says: "We have refunded GARY RM398 out of the RM600.”

Eddy adds GARY has

accepted their apology but declines to comment further.

When contacted, GARY confirmed he accepted the partial refund, although he says he expected a full refund.

10 letters&opinions Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

the malay mail

● Opinions may be in the form of Letters to the Editor or comments posted in relation to all news.

Mail: Letters To The Editor, Malay Mail Sdn Bhd, Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

KUALA LUMPUR

● Letters to the Editor must carry your name, address and contact number. A pseudonym may be included.

Email: mmnews@mmail.com.my Fax: 03-7960 5096

Traffic conditions in KL

Call for wholesome solution THERE are several reasons why special bus lanes are not feasible especially those that use kerbs as separators.

The existing road network in the city was not constructed to accommodate such schemes.

It is a total waste of a lane and road space when a particular lane is dedicated just for buses because most of the time, the lanes will be empty since buses ply the route on fixed schedules.

That lane will be underutilised while the other lanes will be congested.

The mentality of Malaysian drivers (motorcycles/ taxis/ lor r ies/ cars/ bus es) is skewed. They just don't stop at zebra-crossings.

Mentalities cannot change.

Forget about educating the public, they are matured enough to understand.

BEING FRANK

KL traffic problems must be dealt with holistically.

They can never be solved with simple solutions.

I would suggest the number of vehicles in KL be reduced. It is obvious that during the holidays, there is less traffic.

Stop constructing buildings that would host a lot of people within KL. The 100storey building must not be constructed in KL, build it in Putrajaya. The idea is to divert vehicles from KL. Reduce the number of carparks. Let the people get frustrated that they can't find parking. This will force people to use public transportation, regardless of how bad public transport may be.

Charge higher parking fees. This will also discourage people from driving a

one-occupant car into KL. Cars parked illegally must be towed away. Issuing summonses especially by City Hall, is not effective.

Government departments must move out from KL, including the Parliament Ho u s e , Is t a n a Ne g a r a , DBKL headquarters, and all universities and campuses. They should all shift to Bukit Beruntung or Rawang.

Shift all purpose-built shopping malls away from the city. KL could become a semi-ghost town for all I care, but other areas will surely develop.

Charge a heavy toll for those vehicles coming into KL. This will definitely force those passing through to find alternative routes.

Nawawi

JAMMED: All factors must be considered when dealing with KL’s traffic problems

Depped collection? Metromonni? (May 16)

A beautiful language that can be difficult to master ENGLISH is a beautiful and complex language. It can sometimes be difficult and intimidating to master.

There are many nuances and quirkiness which are lost on those who do not read widely and critically in excellent publications by those who are born, bred and educated in the United Kingdom (and all English-speaking countries like Australia, NZ, USA, etc.).

How many Malaysians have read Somerset Maugham's novels, Bernard Shaw's and Oscar Wilde's plays, JRR Tolkien's epic trilogy Lord of the Rings?

English is also a language which excels in satire. This is lost on Malaysians who have post-NEP schooling.

An excellent language is dynamic and grows by borrowing extensively from

other languages whether scientific and technological terminology or ancient "dead" languages like Latin, Greek or Sanskrit. English has borrowed many words and phrases from French and German.

English Language Professor Ernest Brennecke of C olumbia is credited with inventing a sentence that can be made to have eight different meanings by placing one word in all possible positions in the sentence: "I hit him in the eye yesterday."

The word is "ONLY". The message: 1. ONLY I hit him in the eye yesterday. (No one else did.)

2. I ONLY hit him in the eye yesterday. (Did not slap him.)

3. I hit ONLY him in the

The Malay Mail-Dutch Lady HAMPER FOR CHARITY THE best opinion of the week as decided by the editor will win a hamper from Dutch Lady Malaysia for charitable institutions. Readers are encouraged to nominate charities deserving of this gesture. The Malay Mail will deliver the winning hamper.

eye yesterday. (I did not hit others.)

4. I hit him ONLY in the eye yesterday. (I did not hit outside the eye.)

5. I hit him in ONLY the eye yesterday. (Not other organs.)

6. I hit him in the ONLY eye yesterday. (He doesn't have another eye.)

7. I hit him in the eye ONLY yesterday. (Not today.)

8. I hit him in the eye yesterday ONLY. (Did not wait for today.)

This is the beauty and complexity of the English language.

Dr Ramesh

Loving mum WHETHER it is English or Bahasa Malaysia, there is really no end to what caused and still is, behind the deterioration of the level of spoken and written English.

One can argue till the cows come home, but then we ourselves must be realistic.

Do not blame rural children for their fear of speaking English.

Some urban ones are shy as well.

I remember a story told to me about a Muslim mixed-

race girl who thought that Jawi was Tamil when she first saw her Jawi book in Year 1.

It was most unfortunate that her parents' standard of Jawi was also deplorable.

With pure determination and the guidance from her mother, teachers and friends, this young girl not only managed to read and write Jawi by the end of Year 1 but aced the exams as well.

Today, this 13-year-old girl is able to read and write in Jawi with no problem.

It just shows that our children are able to learn languages provided they are given all the necessary encouragement.

So, if our standard of English is poor, don't blame rural kids for not being able to learn fast enough. Blame it on politicians who sway to

pressure groups when deciding on educational issues.

I am not a champion of the Queen's English, but I strongly feel that all our young children should master a decent standard of communicable English.

Te a c h i n g M a t h s a n d Science in English should continue.

Anak Jati Perak

Thursday 19 May, 2011

the malay mail

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12

news

Every year, Yayasan Tunku Naquiyuddin provides aid for underpriviledged children — Tunku Naquiyuddin

The Malay Mail ● Thursday 19 May, 2011

Royal aid

SEREMBAN

Underprivileged children given financial assistance and scholarships by Negri royalty

By JOSEPH KAOS JR joejr@mmail.com.my

MORE than 70 underprivileged students received financial assistance and scholarships from the royal family of Negri Sembilan yesterday.

Tuanku Najihah Tunku Besar Burhanuddin, the Tunku Ampuan of Negri Sembilan, and Tunku Naquiyuddin Tuanku Jaafar, the Tunku Laksamana, were at Rumah Penyayang here for the presentation ceremony.

Tuanku Najihah presented a mock cheque for RM32,600 to the State education department. The aid was provided through the Tuanku Educational Trust.

Tunku Naquiyuddin, representing his own foundation, Yayasan Tunku Naquiyuddin (YTN), handed a mock cheque for RM45,900 to Rumah Penyayang.

Tuanku Najihah and Tunku Naquiyuddin also gave out scholarships to several underprivileged children, from primary to university level.

“Every year, YTN provides aid to the needy to support them in their education and we do it at least twice a year,” Tunku Naquiyuddin told The Malay Mail.

YTN was established in 1995 and the Tuanku Jaafar Educational Trust in 1996.

Tunku Naquiyuddin said YTN,

while providing educational assistance to the needy, was also embarking on other educational projects, such as the dengue awareness programme.

Rumah Penyayang was set up 10 years ago by Tunku Naquiyuddin’s wife, Tunku Nurul Hayati. It is a daycare centre for underprivileged children whose parents earn low incomes and cannot look after their children because of employment commitments.

The centre is taking

care of 58 children — from babies to secondary school students — who are provided three meals a day. The students are provided space to study and do their homework.

ALL THE BEST: Tunku Naquiyuddin presenting a scholarship to Form 5 student Kavilasha Narayanan of SMK Bukit Kepayang

PETALING JAYA

MAF gets more aid from MM Care Fund

By IKRAM ISMAIL ikram.ismail@mmail.com.my

THE Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) received RM10,200 from The Malay Mail Care Fund yesterday at The Malay Mail's office in Redberry City in Section 13, the second such contribution in two months.

MAF chairman Prof Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman received a cheque for the amount from The Malay Mail Care Fund trustee Datuk Dr Mohamed Al Amin Abdul Majid.

Also present were Redberry Media CEO Datuk Siew Ka Wei and Redberry Media group editorial adviser Datuk Ahirudin Attan.

The donation came from the proceeds of the recent "Cutathon 8" fund-raising event organised by A Cut Above Academy in collaboration with the fund.

Dr Adeeba thanked The

GOOD CAUSE: Mohamed Al Amin (second from right) presenting a cheque to Dr Adeeba, flanked by Ahirudin (left) and Siew

Malay Mail and said the funds will be used for underprivileged Malaysians living with HIV to improve their access to treatment, care and support services and for their children's further studies.

"Some 90,000 Malaysians are infected with HIV and

many of them cannot afford to pay for their treatment, so contributions from the corporate sector and the public are vital."

On April 20, MAF also received a cheque of RM10,200 from A Cut Above Academy and The Malay Mail Care Fund.

The fund, launched on Aug 19, last year, was previously known as The Malay Mail Charity Fund which has, since the 1990s, provided financial aid to needy Malaysians, including the poor, disabled, homeless and the critically ill.

Its Board of Trustees comprises Mohamed Al Amin, Ahirudin, P.C. Shivadas, Pantai Medical Centre chairman Datuk Dr Ridzwan Bakar and Real Food Company Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Wan Izzana Fatimah Zabedah Mohamad Salleh.

The public and the corporate sector are welcome to make donations of any amount, by banking into The Malay Mail Care Fund via its Maybank account (512334307421) or in the form of cheques addressed to "The Malay Mail Care Fund".

Thursday 19 May, 2011

the malay mail

13

14

I am questioning the credibility of the need to replace him. Osama bin Laden is not a leader, he's an ideologist — Political analyst Mustafa Alani

world

Teen grilled over Facebook posting A 13-YEAR-OLD boy was interrogated at his school by Secret Service agents without his mother's permission after posting a message about Osama bin Laden on Facebook, the Daily Mail reported.

Following the al-Qaeda leader's death, Tacoma, Washington, schoolboy Vito LaPinta wrote on his Facebook page that President Barack Obama should be wary of repercussions. "I was saying how Osama was dead and for Obama to be careful because there could be suicide bombers," he said.

Celibacy not abuse cause RESEARCHERS in Washington commissioned by the nation's Roman Catholic bishops to analyse the pattern of clergy sex abuse have concluded that homosexuality, celibacy and an all-male priesthood did not cause the scandal. The study instead said the problem was largely the result of poor seminary training and insufficient emotional support for men ordained in the 1940s and 1950s, who were not able to withstand the social upheaval they confronted as pastors in the 1960s. -- AP

DUBAI

Osama's replacement Al Jazeera: al-Qaeda names Adel as interim chief

AL-QAEDA has appointed an Egyptian militant as temporary leader and named a new head of operations following the killing of Osama bin Laden by US commandos, al Jazeera said yesterday, citing Pakistani security sources.

The Arab satellite channel said Saif al-Adel (pic) was named interim leader and Mohammed Mustafa al-Yemeni, whose surname hints he is from Yemen, would direct operations .

"According to the sources, the decision (on the appointments) was made at a meeting on May 10 on the Afghanistan-Pakistan border," said the channel, which was the main conduit for NEW YORK

Osama to release messages to the media.

US special forces shot dead al-Qaeda leader Osama in his hideout outside the capital of Pakistan on May 2, almost 10 years after he ordered the Sept 11 attacks of 2001 that killed around 3,000 people in the United States.

"I think it's more for show than anything else. It is to illustrate to the world that they have a temporary leader," Dubai-based security analyst Theodore Karasik said of Adel.

"Adel clearly has operational experience but he does not have the intellectual or charismatic side that Osama had."

Adnan al-Khairi al-Masri was named al-Qaeda's general command head, while Mohammed Nasser al-Wahshi would be Africa chief,

Mohammed Adam Khan, an Afghan, would be in charge in Pakistan and Afghanistan, and Fahd al-Iraqi would be responsible for the AfghanPakistani border region, Al Jazeera added.

US prosecutors say Adel is one of al-Qaeda's leading military commanders and helped plan the 1998 bomb attacks on the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania.

They also say he set up al-Qaeda training camps in Sudan and Afghanistan in the 1990s.

But reports have suggested Adel viewed the Sept 11 attacks as a mistake and criticised Osama over them.

Political analyst Mustafa Alani said he doubted Adel

had taken on a temporary leadership role, citing past disputes between Adel and the charismatic Saudi leader.

"This man was an opponent of Osama and the Sept 11 attacks. He criticised Osama personally, describing him as a dictator who took decisions without referring to his colleagues," he said.

Alani also said Osama was a symbolic leader who did not need to be replaced.

"I am questioning the credibility of the need to replace him. Osama bin Laden is not a leader, he's an ideologist.

The idea of replacing Osama as a manager, it doesn't work this way." — Reuters

Bodily fluids found in IMF boss' hotel room

POLICE yesterday pored over evidence taken from a New York hotel, including bodily fluids, which prosecutors believe may link IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn to sexual assault charges, US media reported.

The fluid samples were found after a chambermaid was taken back to the suite in the Sofitel hotel in Manhattan where she says was attacked on Saturday by the IMF boss who tried to rape her.

Police said she pointed to the place where Strauss-Kahn

tried to force her to perform oral sex and where she said she remembered spitting, ABC television reported.

"Those fluids are being tested for Strauss-Kahn's DNA," ABC said.

A large section of a rug was also taken from the suite to be analysed, the Wall Street Journal said, adding the 32-year-old woman had pointed to two places where she allegedly remembered spitting.

In a bid to gather other evidence, one of the sinks

Spielberg remakes 'Tintin' HAVING bought the film rights to Tintin 28 years ago, Steven Spielberg's big screen vision of the stories has been a long time coming.

But for fans of the intrepid reporter, they've been given a hint of things to come as the first trailer for the Tintin movie was released online.

A one-minute trailer of The Adventures Of Tintin: Secret Of The Unicorn,

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

the first in a proposed trilogy, premiered online ahead of its release in December. The motion-capture animated film sees Spielberg returning to the director's chair with Lord Of The Rings' Peter Jackson producing.

inside the luxury suite has been swabbed after it was shown to possibly contain DNA evidence, the Journal added.

Disposable contact lenses, a used toothpick and drinking glass and small, bloodied bandages were also taken away, the business daily said.

Strauss-Kahn denies seven counts of sexual assault, attempted rape and unlawful imprisonment, and his defense has hinted that any sexual act may have been consensual. — AFP

SAANA

Yemen transition deal falls through A DEAL on a transition of power in Yemen fell through at the last minute on yesterday, even as Washington stepped up pressure on President Ali Abdullah Saleh to sign a Gulf-brokered agreement to ease him out of office.

Heavy diplomatic wrangling by Western and Gulf diplomats keen to resolve the threemonth standoff had secured an agreement in principle that would see Saleh, a shrewd political survivor, resign within a month, an opposition official said.

But in a familiar twist, last-minute snags over details derailed the deal that would have granted Saleh immunity from prosecution, allowing him a dignified exit from power in the Arabian Peninsula state he has ruled for nearly 33 years.

A government official said a deal remained possible. "There is still a glimmer of hope."

— Reuters

TIES THAT BIND: Wen (right) shows the way to Yusuf during a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing yesterday — AFPpic

BEIJING

Wen says China friends 'forever' with Pakistan CHINA'S Premier Wen Jiabao on yesterday told his Pakistani counterpart Yousuf Raza Gilani their nations would stay friends "forever", as Islamabad faces US pressure after the killing of Osama bin Laden.

Gilani met Wen on the second day of a visit to China that follows the May 2 killing of the al-Qaeda leader by US special forces on Pakistani soil — a raid that has rattled US-Pakistan ties and prompted Islamabad to court ally Beijing.

"I wish to stress here that no matter what changes might take place in the

international landscape, China and Pakistan will remain forever good neighbours, good friends, good partners and good brothers," Wen said.

The assault on Osama's compound has prompted questions as to whether Pakistan's security establishment helped him find safe haven, and has also angered Islamabad, which was not told about the raid until after it took place.

Pakistan's defence minister Ahmad Mukhtar said Wen and Gilani discussed the issue during their talks.

— AP

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

I am not anti-Semitic or racially prejudiced in any way, nor am I a Nazi — Lars von Trier

world

15

CANNES

Cinematic controversy Hitler, Obama remarks stir international film fest

CONTROVERSY gripped Cannes yesterday with Lars von Trier expressing "a little bit" of sympathy for Adolf Hitler and Peter Fonda calling US President Barack Obama a traitor in four-letter fashion.

The rhetorical double feature overshadowed what many expected would top the bill for uproar at the film festival — French director Xaviar Durringer's telling of French President Nicolas Sarkozy's rise to power, The Conquest.

At a Press conference for his new film Melancholia, which is up for a Palme d'Or, the festival's top prize, Von Trier, a notorious provocateur who later apologised for his remarks, was asked about his German roots.

"I really wanted to be a Jew and then I found out that I was really a Nazi, you know, because my family was German, Hartmann, which also gave me some pleasure," the Danish director said with a cheerful smile.

"I understand Hitler," he added. "I think he did some wrong things, yes

WHAT DID YOU SAY? Dunst (right) looks at Von Trier during the Press conference — AFPpic

absolutely, but I can see him sitting in his bunker in the end."

His star Kirsten Dunst, who is also of German descent, looked uncomfortable and murmured "oh my God, this is terrible" to co-star Charlotte Gainsbourg. But the auteur said: "I'm just saying that I think I understand the man. He's not what you would call a good guy, but, yeah, I understand much about him, and I sympathise with him a little bit, yes."

"But, come on, I'm not for the Second World War. And I'm not against Jews (but) not too much because Israel is a pain.

"Okay, I'm a Nazi," Von Trier finally shrugged, prompting nervous laughter.

In a late-day statement, Von Trier said: "If I have hurt someone this morning by the words I said at the Press conference, I sincerely apologise. I am not anti-Semitic or racially prejudiced in any way, nor

am I a Nazi."

Later on in the festival's American Pavilion, Golden Globe winner Fonda reached for an obscenity to lash out at Obama's handling of the Gulf oil spill and aftermath.

"I sent an email to President Obama saying, 'You are a f*****g traitor,' using those words," said Fonda, a co-producer of The Big Fix, a documentary on last year's Deepwater Horizon explosion and its consequences.

"You're a traitor, you allowed foreign boots on our soil telling our military, in this case the coastguard, what they can and could not do, and telling us, the citizens of the United States, what we could or could not do."

By "foreign boots" he meant BP, the British energy giant held responsible for the biggest oil spill in US history, which The Big Fix alleges is covering up the full scale of the disaster in cahoots with the US government.

The world's biggest film festival wraps on Sunday. — AFP

DUBLIN

Queen resists the 'perfect pint' ON the second day of their whirlwind and historic tour of Ireland, Britain's Royal couple followed in the footsteps of millions of other tourists by visiting the world famous Guinness Storehouse in Dublin.

They watched the "perfect pint" being poured by master brewer Fergal Murray.

Ireland is famous for the black stuff but the Queen's favourite tipple is gin and Dubonnet with ice and a slice of lemon.

Both she and her husband, Prince Philip, resisted entreaties to sample the most famous of Irish exports, despite Murray's best efforts.

The Duke of Edinburgh looked like he was ruing the decision not to have a sip in one picture which showed him looking longingly at the glass (pic above).

16 lifestyle

Hollywood summ

MAY

We present the movies that’ll invade your cinemas over the

19 Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides

Penelope Cruz who manages to capture Sparrow’s heart.

JOHNNY Depp returns as the odd pirate Captain Jack Sparrow and Geoffrey Rush as Captain Hector Barbossa in search to find the Fountain of Youth.

On their journey, they cross paths with their new nemesis Captain Blackbeard played by Academy Award-winning actor Ian McShane and the enigmatic Angelica played by actress

MM Says: Arrr! You might have grown tired of Jack Sparrow or Johnny Depp already, but a boobalicious Cruz and the mermaids might just change your mind.

Watch this if you have a pirate fetish and simply to complete the whole pirate movies, since you’ve watched the previous three already.

Insidious THE writer-director team behind Saw and the filmmakers of Paranormal Activity redefine the haunted house genre. This is the terrifying story of a family who shortly after moving discover that dark spirits have possessed their home and that their son has inexplicably fallen into a coma. They move again only to discover that it was not their house that was haunted. It stars Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey and Angus Sampson.

MM Says: One hour and 42 minutes of thrill. Don’t go watch this alone. Remember to empty your bladder first to avoid any accidents.

MAY

26

By SHUHAIDAH SAHARANI iedas@mmail.com.my twitter: @edabunny

IT’S that time of the year again!

Summer has arrived, and with the heatwave comes an even bigger wave of hot stuff from the west.

This season, Tinseltown has prepared a motherload of adrenaline-rushing, tearjerking and guffaw-inducing goodies set to colour our cineplexes.

From original stories to

long-awaited sequels, bookadaptations to comic-book inspirations and from live-action flicks to animated features, the good folks in Hollywood have something for whatever craving you may have — in regular 2D and 3D. So clear your weekends, forget the kenduri invitations and tell the gym instructors you’re taking a break — because it’s

the world, and before Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young friends discovering their powers for the first time and working together with other mutants to stop Armageddon. Through the

process, a rift begins which initiates the eternal war between Magneto's Brotherhood and Professor X's X-Men.

JUNE

2

X-Men: First Class THIS charts the epic beginning of the X-Men saga, which parallels the history of the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Civil Rights Movement of the ‘60s. Before mutants revealed themselves to

time to sit back and relax, and let Hollywood summer blockbusters entertain you!

The Green Lantern THE Green Lantern Corps is a brotherhood of warriors sworn to keep intergalactic order, with each Green Lantern member wearing a ring that grants him superpowers. When a new enemy called Parallax threatens to destroy the balance of power in the Universe, an Earthling by the name of

MM Says: Professor X. With hair.

Played by James McAlvoy. ‘Nuff said.

Super 8 AFTER witnessing a mysterious train crash, a group of friends in the summer of 1979 begin noticing strange happenings going around in their small town and begin to investigate into the creepy phenomenon.

Kung Fu Panda: The Kaboom Of Doom THE sequel to Kung Fu Panda introduces a new villain with a weapon so powerful it threatens the very existence of kung fu. It is then up to Po, Master Shifu and the Furious Five to defend it, whilst along the way,

Diary Of A Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules GREG Heffley, the kid who made "wimpy" cool, is back in an allnew family comedy based on the best-selling illustrated novel

by Jeff Kinney, one of a series that has thus far sold 28 million books. As he begins seventh grade, Greg tries to score points with a pretty new girl in school while honouring his mum's request to spend quality time with his older brother Rodrick.

Follow Greg and Rodrick's mis-

Po is forced to confront his past.

Jack Black reprises his role as Po, the Giant Panda.

MM Says: Kung Fu Panda kicked ass in 2008. We are pretty sure the cute, cuddly creatures will do the same this year with its fun adventure story. Who can resist a fat panda? cellaneous adventures together, as inspired by volume two of the novels.

MM Says: Nerds, dweebs and wimps take note: you’re only cool in movies. In real life, do try to look presentable, because really, tough guys get the girls.

MM Says: As long as it stays fiction, we love how aliens are invading our silver screens again and again. Super cool!

Dylan Dog: Dead Of Night THIS movie is based on the Italian comic book of the same name. Brandon Routh (Superman Returns) stars as Dylan Dog, a private investigator that specialises in the affairs of the undead that lives undercover among us, mostly in the backstreets of New Orleans. With his business card that reads "No Pulse? No Problem" and armed with an arsenal of silver and wood-tipped bullets, Dylan's latest case is to track down a dangerous artifact before a war ensues between his werewolf, vampire and zombie clients.

MM Says: Man of Steel ditches the cape and red undies, and still looks delicious. Oh, the plot seems nice too.

Transformers: Dark Of The Moon SAM Witwicky is now taking his first step into adulthood while remaining a reluctant ally of the Autobots. The film begins back during the space race between the USSR and the USA, and goes all the way to the race between the Autobots and Decepticons to the moon, when they learn of a Cybertronian spacecraft hidden there which could turn the tide in the Transformers' final battle.

MM Says: Megan Fox has left the building. Only to be replaced

by Victoria’s Secret supermodel Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. The robots take a back seat yet again, but director Michael Bay knows, you’ll watch it. And get the toys too.

mmer flicks 2011

e next few months

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

SEPT

17

1

JULY

7

Here, we list you some of the summer flicks you might enjoy.

Get the popcorn ready.

Hal Jordan, a test pilot, is asked to save the day.

JUNE

16 The Smurfs

MM Says: Hot on the heels of Chris Helmsworth’s Thor, Ryan Reynolds dons a skin-tight costume to be another superhero gift from the cosmos. No boys, you don’t have to convince your girlfriends to catch it.

CLUMSY Smurf accidentally falls into the Cave of Wonders and tumble from their magical world and into ours. The other Smurfs plan to bring Clumsy back before the devi-

Bridesmaids

JUNE

30

ANNIE'S life is a mess. But when she finds out about best friend Lillian getting engaged, she is asked to serve as her best friends’ maid of honour. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals of pre-wedding events with other bridesmaids, to make their time in Vegas one hell of a party which

none of them will ever forget.

Prom

MM Says: These little guys made being blue cool way before Avatar. Which is not as cool as having Katy Perry play Smurfette!

AUG

11

key to defeating them, he must align himself with Dolarhyde and other former enemies to make a stand against this powerful foe.

MM Says: Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford in cowboy boots.

It’s James Bond vs Indiana Jones set in the wild west, with space invaders thrown in. Just out of this world.

JULY

28

Final Destination 5 AFTER one man's premonition saves a group of co-workers from a terrifying suspension bridge collapse, Death comes after them one at a time.

MM Says: Sounds rather predictable and clichéd. Strictly for fans of teenage love and high school drama, which is, like a whole lot of people.

14

IN 1873 Arizona, a loner named Jake Lonergan awakens with no memory of his past and a mysterious shackle around his wrist. He enters the town of Absolution where he learns he is a notorious criminal wanted by many, including Colonel Woodrow Dolarhyde, who rules the town with an iron fist. But Absolution soon faces an even greater threat when mysterious forces attack the town from the sky, taking anyone in their path.

While Jake's shackle holds the

MM Says: Girls behaving like boys. When one of the bridesmaids made a loud burping sound and said "I'm sorry. I'm not even confident on which end that even came out of," you know it’s going to be a fun movie.

THIS teen flick tells of couples with different stories leading to the big dance night. For Nova Prescott, it’s a battle of wills as she finds herself drawn to the guy who gets in the way of her perfect prom.

JULY

Cowboys And Aliens

ous wizard Gargamel captures them all.

MM Says: The word ‘final’ obviously means nothing in this series. Same plot, different ways of kicking the bucket. Still, a great way to get spooked.

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2 THIS is the final adventure in the Harry Potter film series.

Continuing from where Part 1 ends, Harry, Ron, and Hermione go back to Hogwarts to find and destroy Voldemort's final horcruxes, but when Voldemort finds out about their mission, the biggest battle begins.

MM Says: A no-brainer for Potter fans and those who watched the last six movies. Finally, we can see dashing Ralph Fiennes’ face as Voldermolt, only to see him die. JK Rowling laughs all the way to the bank. Again.

Hanna HANNA is a 16-year-old assassin who has the capabilities of a soldier from being raised by her father, an ex-CIA, in the wilds of Finland.

Sent on a mission

by her father, Hanna journeys stealthily across Europe, successfully eluding agents dispatched after her by a ruthless intelligence operative with secrets of her own. As Hanna approaches her ultimate target, she faces a startling revelation about her existence and unexpected questions regarding her humanity.

MM Says: If you’re into action, little girls with guns, bows and arrows, then you’ll dig the story.

What’s more, you’ll be mesmerised by Saoirse Ronan’s bewitching blue eyes.

Captain America: The First Avenger BORN during the Great Depression, Steve Rogers grew up a frail youth in a poor family. Horrified by the newsreel footage of the Nazis in Europe, Rogers was inspired to enlist in the army.

However, because of his frailty and sickness, he was rejected.

Overhearing the boy's earnest plea, General Chester Phillips offers Rogers the opportunity to take part in a special experiment — Operation: Rebirth. Rogers is now taller, muscular and ready to fight.

MM Says: Got to love that shield. But the stars-and-striped costume?

18 lifestyle

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

Falling short of its own hype

By JOE LEE joelee@mmail.com.my

twitter @klubbkiddkl OVERCOMPLICATING something really simple doesn’t really make sense. Most especially when it’s hardly necessary, and appears forced and contrived.

To try and produce something that appears to have more substance than it does in reality, is just redundant.

Point of discussion? MIG’s latest effort in Kongsi: Lu Langsi, Lu Mati, directed by actor-turned-director Farid Kamil, fresh from his successful directorial debut effort in V3: Samseng Jalanan that earned over RM4 million. So, much was expected of Kongsi.

This, apart from MIG’s head honcho David Teo blowing his own horn when he boasted about the over 500,000 hits on YouTube for the film’s trailer.

Teo was pretty sure about the enthusiastic reception of the film's trailer screenings in the cinemas.

Well, having sat through Kongsi, it’s safe to say that it will rake in the Ringgits for sure, especially when news broke that it had earned over RM1 million in just its first day’s takings.

Sadly however, most of it will be due to the hype than anything else as the film disappoints, to say the least.

In fact, even if anyone had lowered their expectations, Teo’s almost braggish nature claiming that the film would break the RM10 million mark would reverse any decision.

Just do not expect too much.

Truth to be told — the film is a decent watch, but nothing that rocks your socks off to live up to the inflated claims of just how fantastic it is.

Sitting through it is a tedious task, with dodgy technical glitches such as blurrish, out of focus shots throughout the whole movie and an overworked storyline that delivers next to nothing.

Teo, in a Press conference after the preview just before the movie opened, reasoned that reviewers in attendance did not understand the film as

Paul rocks the screen HE may not be as cute as ET, but Paul is one alien you wouldn't mind going home with.

For the past 60 years, loudmouthed and cheeky Paul (voiced by Seth Rogen) has been hanging out at a top secret military base.

For reasons unknown, the space-travelling eccentric alien decides to escape the compound and hop on the first vehicle out of town — which happens to be an RV rented by Earthlings Graeme Willy (Simon Pegg) and Clive Gollings (Nick Frost).

The odd-looking trio find themselves chased by federal agents and the fanatical father of a young woman that they accidentally kidnap as they go on accidental quest to help Paul return to his mother ship.

As the two nerds fumble trying to help the little green man, they in the end are the ones who are rescued by Paul — by turning them from geeky misfits to intergalactic heroes.

Directed by Greg Mottola (Superbad), the film is a hilarious take on an alien's misadventures as he finds his way home.

For alien fans, Paul is the epitome of an alien you would love

to meet. He is well-versed with human behaviour, he can turn invisible if he holds his breath and the little green man loves to swear. If not for the swearing, this film would be a perfect treat for the whole family.

Pegg and Frost (Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead) reunite for the comedy adventure as two sci-fi geeks whose pilgrimage takes them from England to America’s UFO heartland.

There is no denying the onscreen chemistry between the two human protagonists. Both funny in their own way, the two outcasts are the ideal accidental rescuers for the universe bound Paul.

Fans of aliens, road trips, silly comedy and entertaining swearing will love this movie.

The comedy also includes Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Blythe Danner, Joe Lo Truglio, John Carroll Lynch, David Koechner and Sigourney Weaver.

— By Anu Venugopal

Paul is currently showing in local cinemas.

A scene from Kongsi: Lu Langsi, Lu Mati

they were not in the know of how triads worked.

Now that's silly, and does not warrant any comment.

Even if that holds true, Teo must realise that a filmmaker who fails in getting a story across, or having to explain an effort, can only point to failure in the storytelling elements.

Teo went on to defend the lame technical approach where endless amount of scenes from the start were blurrish and out of focus, saying that reviewers did not understand the execution of action films.

“Watch the Fast and Furious series, and you will see most action shots are almost always out of focus as we’re not talking about static takes here,” he CAPTAIN Jack Sparrow, the infamous witty pirate is back (finally!) in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides but it seems though, Sparrow has lost so much of his magic and charisma that he once had in earlier Pirates installments.

In On Strangers Tides, not only that he lacks his funny antics, he also lost that little something that defines who Jack Sparrow is. But of course, that’s none of his fault. You can blame it on the scriptwriter!

The Pirates franchise should have just ended after At World’s End to save us from all the pain of having to go through the basics again.

If anything, Jack Sparrow’s unpredictable manner has become so predictable to a certain point that it’s just boring.

Picking up from where the previous installment has left, On Stranger Tides stars Johnny Depp and Geoffrey Rush as Captain Jack Sparrow and Captain Hector Barbossa, where both captains work together to find the Fountain of Youth.

On their journey to find the mystical fountain, they first have to defeat their archenemy Captain Blackbeard, played by Ian McShane.

In terms of plot, this latest installment lacks the 'power' to justify itself and reminds the audiences, why the

replied defensively.

Too bad he had no explanation for the boo-boos that were also very apparent in static scenes with a single camera.

Teo went on to rant about how he was proud that the film showcased the 1Malaysia theme, with three groups of bumbling gangsters made up of Malay, Chinese and Indian triads coming together when they’re besieged by attacks from a Thai hitman representing triads from up north.

The hitman is of course, played by the most bankable actor at the moment, Shaheizy Sam, which could probably be the real reason for Teo’s confidence, especially since the actor just took home the

Bintang Paling Popular title at the recent Anugerah Bintang Popular.

Teo's confidence is shared when he said that Kongsi would play on over 100 screens, including in Singapore and Brunei. Just what is the storyline for Kongsi?

Tumulak (Shaheizy Sam) is a hitman for Kimpedu (Bront Palarae), and is one of the three henchmen sent out to create rifts in triads in Malaysia, Japan and India.

With a subplot of rivalry between Tumulak and his arch nemesis Chief Inspector Shariff (Fizo Omar), the hitman starts ticking off names in his hit list of supposedly prominent members from the gangs — which laughably enough, comprise of a Malay, Chinese and Indian gang each under the leadership of Tok Maliki.

Starting to sound more like an apt representation of the powers that be? Anyway, to cut a long story short, chaos reigns as the gangs blame each other for the hits, until they realise Tumulak’s existence. Fast forward to the end — he is finally caught.

Throw in a few badly executed chase scenes straight out of old school kung fu flicks, some decently choreographed fight

scenes and a few more car chases (which have no bearing to the storyline) and you have Kongsi.

Acting is superb — if you were only to take into account Shaheizy Sam and Bront Palarae though; while the rest of the cast seem to be plucked from any cheap TV dramas at best. To put it simple, Teo’s defensive stand against the harsh criticism for the film that he had put on a pedestal and hyped for over the past few months, is a victim of his own doing. Farid justified the weaknesses best when he admitted there were technical glitches to the film that took away some of the pleasure of making Kongsi.

As for the storyline, which plays too much on nothing (including just why a supposedly powerful triad leader in Thailand would want to cause rifts within local organisations in other countries), Farid said that would be addressed in a sequel — if that ever materialises. A shaky answer, but still at least an acceptable one.

For now however, the only real pertinent question that remains is, will Kongsi break the RM10 million barrier? The film started playing on local cinemas since May 12.

Nothing to shout about

franchise was made in the first place.

When the first Pirates hit local cinemas, everyone was excited and the movie lived up to its name and the buzz that surrounded it.

However, call it boring, if you may, On Stranger Tides just don’t possess the much needed 'kick'. But of course, there are plenty of intense action, sword-fighting and (clear your throat) romantic scene — but that’s just it.

If one would to draw connection between the characters without first watching the previous installments, it is safe to say that it’s as hard as plucking the stars from the sky.

It is advisable for anyone who is about to watch On Stranger Tides to at least check out the synopsis. If that's not doable, just re-watch the previous premises.

There are quite a few familiar faces missing from the story as well.

After At World’s End, it seems that everybody has quit the pirate business.

Gone were the days when you get to see so much drama onboard the Black Pearl and yes, Davy Jones. It is almost as if, after Jones, there is nothing much to talk about.

The 3D effects aren’t really that impressive, but still passable for general viewing. There isn’t much of that 'popping effect' that could just keep you having those 'goggles'. In fact, it’s quite ordinary with nothing to shout about.

One of the highlights however, involves a scene where the mermaids come charging at the pirates. It’s strange that being a movie about pirates, it is actually the mermaids that get all the credit.

The romantic relationship that sparks between a young priest and a mermaid is unnecessary though, but that aside, what else is there to watch?

The cinematography is pret-

ty impressive, especially shots that are taken outside and not in the studio. A lot of times, the studio shots are really dark and it’s difficult to make out who’s who in the dark.

But the moment the camera pans to the blue skies and the clear Caribbean water, now that gets everyone excited for a minute.

After all, what’s Pirates of the Caribbean without any shot of the ocean?

Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides is strictly for hardcore fans, and of course those who profess their love for Johnny Depp.

Passable for a summer blockbuster, On Stranger Tides has its funny moments that will let you off the stress hook for a while.

Do stay until the end of the credit, as you do not want to miss the 'special extra' that goes after it. Saving the best for the last, eh? — By Loong

Wai Ting

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

Talent show relives past mistakes IF imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, one should note that it is not applicable when it comes to Akademi Fantasia.

Let’s face it, since the show became a phenomenon and created a household name, not only for its own branding but also every product to be churned out of it, it seems to have lost steam in innovation by the year.

When it was first introduced in 2003, Akademi Fantasia was the model of how most locally-produced reality shows were executed. It began the text voting craze, the daily reports of progress of preparation of contestants, and it also brought the element of drama, laughs and tears to the weekly shows.

Somewhere down the line, someone forgot to innovate and keep things fresh, resulting in waning support for the show.

Promising to be the last season, that would go with a bang, Akademi Fantasia 9 has so far reneged on its promise to wow.

In fact, it can best be described as a hit-and-miss attempt to recapture its glory days in its swan song performance. Kicking off

Hazama

the season with a promising batch of talents, most have failed to impress, for whatever reason.

Production quality has been dodgy at best. One has to admit though that the spanking new glass house 'Akademi' has provided a welcome change, as the show discards the hidden cameras. The glass house also allows interactivity among fans who would drop by at the location to watch ‘reality’ unfolds before their very eyes.

The weekly concerts however, have failed to adopt the change as promised to give the show

the fitting farewell. It has been a rather mundane affair, week in, week out.

Last week, when the element of live band accompaniment was introduced, most of the contestants were able to meet the challenge, though not in the most spectacular fashion. Still, it was well met by fans who hoped for a turnaround in the show that seems to have done a 180-turn after a decent showing in the week before, in its fifth concert.

What really might have irked most fans were the ‘surprises’ unveiled that were hardly fresh.

Take for example, bringing Faizal Tahir as the ‘mentor’ of the week.

Before you can say American Idol, fans were already questioning the throwback to references of the popular American talent search programme. If that wasn’t enough, they decided to unveil that immunity would be handed out — though the mechanics were not specified.

So seriously, is this another attempt that seemed to lack in

originality that Akademi Fantasia has been thriving upon? The seventh season of Akademi Fantasia already met with speedbumps when it introduced staging elements similar to the show. Last season, when the production team introduced the two-day format (a live show followed by the results show), it was seen as major failure. Don't these people learn?

Akademi Fantasia is a show that thrives on the localised content of the original programme, a franchise of Mexico’s La Academia. Since when did it become just another rip-off programme that thrives on ‘adaptation’ of ideas already done in other titles?

With just over three weeks to go, before the curtains come down on the show, perhaps it would serve the production members well to stick to their promise of re-living the glory of Akademi Fantasia, while updating it to make it more relevant.

Last week’s concert was a disappointment not only for the tacky Idol rip-offs, but also the disappointing show that the contestants presented. Bad

lifestyle 19

song choices reigned as usual with Akim’s Janji performed

by Erul, and Zee Avi’s Kantoi as dished out by Nera or even Ben E. King’s Stand By Me as sung

by Kay (who eventually got the boot).

Despite endless complaints by fans and followers alike, the production has not seemed to pick up on the clue that the song choices have not been well vetted as expected for competition. There were decent selections in Curiga (Ning Baizura) and Francissca Peter’s Ku Ke Udara Lagi as well as Spring’s Sampai Hati — but they were performed in the most lackluster of fashion. The only stand-out of the week was Hazama’s take of Train’s Hey Soul Sister.

Now, can anyone tell us when the real show starts?

KONSERT Akademi Fantasia goes on every Saturday at 9pm over Astro Ria (Channel 104) while the daily Diari Akademi Fantasia airs Monday to Friday at 9pm. For more info, surf over to http://www. akademifantasia.com.my

Kay, who sung Ben E. King's Stand By Me last Saturday, eventually got the boot

20lifestyle

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

Ana in love with acting

By CHE'AZ cheaz@mmail.com.my SHE was hardly in the news until she was announced the ultimate winner of the recent Anugerah Juara Lagu 25 (AJL25) early this year, and now, there seems to be no stopping Ana Raffali.

Many still question the "legitimacy" of her win, especially when the other contenders were "bigger names", but no matter. Words can't hurt her anymore as Ana is more energised to move forward as she takes bolder and bigger steps ahead.

Born Ana Nur Hidayah Mohd Raffali, the 26-year-old is also known as "the girl in baju kurung". While singing and songwriting have been her forte, Ana recently decided to branch out into acting.

Her acting debut can be seen in the musical theatre Kenangan Mengusik Jiwa 60an, co-produced by Belbis Sdn Bhd and Istana Budaya.

The show will meet theatre

goers at the end of May and it will be staged at Panggung Sari of Istana Budaya.

Ana plays Rose who is in love with Rey (Dafi) and the story is set during the '60s.

Ana said the role helps her to look through "a different window", as she explores her other talents.

"I've acted in a few plays when I was in Universiti Teknologi MARA, but this project is by far bigger than anything I'd ever done. I mean, we are talking about Istana Budaya! I am determined to deliver my best and I really take this seriously.

"After all, Dafi and I are also working with veterans and great artistes. I used to just hear their names, but now I get to work with them! They have so much knowledge to share and I am willing to listen and learn from them," Anna said.

As part of Kenangan Mengusik Jiwa's promotional blitz, Ana has been touring with the other cast to various places and the most recent was the train ride to Ipoh, that really got the crowd excited.

Ana said joining the tour was also her way of meeting and thanking her fans personally.

The team has been touring a few places for the promo.

Earlier, they stopped by at Central Market, and the following week the team went down to Ipoh train station.

The cast then moved to Genting Highlands Indoor Theme Park, and the team is expected to end the tour at Dataran Merdeka and Laman Santai Istana Budaya this coming weekend.

"It has been a rewarding journey for me so far. It's amazing for me to gain all the knowledge and I've learnt a lot from the entire team. They understand that I am not an actor with zero experience in dancing. Still they never tire from teaching me all the right moves and steps, no matter how many times we have to repeat the process. It just makes me feel so humble," Ana said.

She added that by exploring acting skills, she is now more in touch with her own emotions. The dynamics of different expressions in acting have helped her refine her performing skills too.

"You can switch from being happy to angry; from angry to sad; and from sad to hysterical!

I can say that I've gone deeper into all this and I hope it helps me in my storytelling skills too.

It will be useful for my songwriting, as I'd like to produce more relatable songs for my audience."

Despite the theatre project, Ana's commitment as a singer is still her main priority. In fact, she plans to tour the country and showcase her songs soon.

"For now, I am quite busy promoting my latest single,

Sehabis Baik, a compilation by Universal Music Malaysia. I also have a new duet song with Ramli Sarip, titled Sayang Abah which is in the album. It has not been released as a single yet," she said.

Despite her busy schedule, Ana still made time for her family. Recently, during the Mother's Day celebration, she decided to present her mum something that is very special to her.

I've acted in a few plays when I was in Universiti Teknologi MARA, but this project is by far bigger than anything I'd ever done.

- Ana Raffali "I received a beautiful Rafflesia pearl necklace from the recent Anugerah Bintang Popular 2010. I decided to give it to my mother as her Mother's Day present.

"I wanted to share something special with her on that day and as she put it around her neck, I could see her smile and how happy she was. That moment was priceless and I knew I made the right choice," Ana said.

Playing with shadows “EVERYBODY's playing a wayang these days.”

Masakini Theatre Company (MTC) director Sabera Shaik's might be describing her new project, but in hindsight, she might just share a really accurate description of many people who like to "play roles" and err, role play. Masakini's new project is also aptly titled Wayang.

“What you see in Wayang, which means ‘show’, really mirrors on society where everyone puts on a front, a show of

sort. We only see what’s on the surface and it’s behind an imaginary smokescreen, or in this case, a sheet of cotton cloth,” she said.

Much like the notion that Malaysians are a caring society, but when untoward incidents happen, people just stop, look and move along without doing anything.

Wayang is a theatre production that involves the age old form of shadow play.

The concept first materialised during the Han Dynasty, when Emperor Wu lost one of his beloved concubines. That resulted in his staff bringing her 'back to life' using donkey leather in a shadow play, or now more known as wayang kulit in Malaysia.

In Sabera’s version,

Wayang is all set to take audiences through six decades

instead of using the traditional material made out of stead of leather and puppetry, 14 dancers from the popular Dua Space Dance Theatre will give you much to ponder with their sinewy and graceful movements basked in skillful lighting techniques.

“There is no dialogue, only music and movements. It will be like watching a black and white silent movie,” said Sabera about this experimental production.

Wayang is all set to take audiences through six decades, right from the '50s through today. Featuring sounds from local musicians Awie and Alleycats, the production will include music to match each decade.

A first for Sabera and MTC, she has always wanted to produce a shadow play and has finally got her chance with Wayang. Using everyday household materials like bottles and umbrellas as

props, the production’s main protagonists are the light and the right angles in which the light is cast.

“It is about Malaysia, what we have become from the days of paddy fields and sucking on ice-balls and today,” added Sabera, who believes the production is similar to traditional dances like the Mak Yong.

Audience can expect sketches revolving around familiar places and issues like Chow Kit Road and Proton Saga, with text representing the scenes in the background.

Wayang is a social commentary that is funny as much as it is real — including a scene where a dancer lady decides to go shopping after acquiring her credit cards.

As she readies to pay for her coveted handbag, one credit card after another doesn’t work. This results in a futile tug of war between her and the cashier until the security guard

literally sweeps her off her feet.

“While we may laugh at the lady with her legs and arms akimbo, a very real message of living beyond our means is the essence of that scene,” said Sabera,who has been actively involved in theatre scene as an actor and director for many years now. Sabera however, is happy to let the audience ‘get’ whatever lessons they can from the production, or even reminisce about the good old days when life was simpler.

Wayang will be staged at Auditorium Bandaraya, DBKL Building, Jalan Raja Laut from May 20 to 23 at 8.30pm at a little over 80 minutes.

Tickets are RM43 and RM20 for students and senior citizens. For bookings, call 03-26983566 or visit www.theatreanticsshop.com.

— By anu venugopal

What’sUp KL: Lifestyle & Luxury Tourism Fair 2011

Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) will act as host for the first Lifestyle & Luxury Tourism Fair in Malaysia, from May 20 till 22. This three-day fair is focused on promoting lifestyle and luxury tourism, travel and experiences especially within this region. For more details, call 03-92832268 or check out http://www.luxtofair.com

PJ: Free talk on managing memory

The KL-PJ AD Caregivers Support Group will be having its monthly gathering at ADFM PJ Daycare Centre, Lorong 6, Lorong 11/8E, Seksyen 11 on May 21 at 2pm. There will be a free talk on 'Manage Memory With Cr8tivity' by Lim Teck Hoe from The Switch who will be speaking on ways and techniques on how to improve your memory. Please confirm your attendance to Jenny at 016-6082513 / 03-79562008 or via email at adfmsec@streamyx.com.

PJ: Be trained by Malaysia's musical theatre experts

Learn to dance at The Enfiniti Academy of Musical Theatre & Entertainment Arts (ENACT) at 28, Jalan PJU 5/20D, Pusat Perdagangan Kota Damansara, PJU 5 this month. ENACT offers

a dance lesson by Pat Ibrahim on May 26 to 29 (Thursday and Friday from 8pm till 11pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 2pm till 5pm) for RM300 fee.

Other classes include 'Jazzing Up Your Ballet' by Suhaili Micheline and 'Starmaker Musical Theatre Bootcamp' by Tiara Jacquelina, Joanna Bessey, Raymond Miranda, Pat Ibrahim, Ann Tan and many more.

For registration and enquiries, call 03-61429877 or email enact@enfiniti.com.my

KL: TAR College Sports Challenge 2011

Tunku Abdul Rahman College will host a Sports Challenge at the TAR College KL Main Campus in Setapak on May 21 from 8am to 1pm.

TAR College alumni are invited to come back to their alma mater to support this activity and make it a successful one. The sports are badminton, table tennis, volleyball, water polo and carrom. For further information, contact the Alumni Affairs Office at 03-41450123 ext. 456 (Ong).

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.

MONDAY'S solution

In And out

PJ: Shell FuelSave Roadshow

Catch the Shell FuelSave Roadshow at Sunway Pyramid, LG2 Blue Wing from May 20 until 22. Visit http://www.shell. com.my/fuelsave for more information.

lifestyle 21

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

By zainal alam kadir alamkadir@mmail.com.my WHAT was meant to be the beginning of a wonderful professional relationship (or perhaps later a great friendship) ended up in a pretty disastrous first impression.

Well, here he goes again, some of you might think.

Alam is about to complain and whine about something.

Alam is a sulking cry baby, isn’t he? Does anything ever please him?

If you must know, honesty pleases me. Unpresumptuous and polite people do too.

Well, I am still going to share my experience anyway.

What you make out of it is your prerogative. If you disagree, just send all your nasty remarks to you know where.

Anyway, this just happened recently. I just checked into a rather upmarket hotel for one of my assignments.

At the welcoming dinner, the hotel’s marketing and communications manager was introduced to me and naturally, a cosy and relevant conversation was supposed to follow.

Since the hotel was one of my favourites, and I’d stayed there many times before since it was opened, I decided to choose the place as my 'opening gambit'.

You see, I just unpacked earlier and I noticed the room I was checked into was slightly different than the previous rooms I stayed in over the last two years.

The wardrobe door was slightly different and some of the refurbished furniture looked pretty new and fresh.

“Are you guys still in the process of changing? The room I was in looked pretty nice and slightly different,” I asked as an indirect compliment.

Well, the rooms that I stayed earlier were nice too, but there seemed to be a 'newer' feel and ambiance to the room that I got. That was what I meant.

“Have you stayed here before?” the marketing and communications manager queried.

I said yes, and that I noticed some slight difference (which, again, was actually meant a

Public Relations 101 compliment).

The hotel used to have a different name, by the way, and I was quite a regular there too, and of course I could sense if there was anything different.

Well, I might be wrong, but I did not expect to be 'ambushed' with sarcasm either.

The marketing and communications manager then quizzed me if I was still referring to the “old hotel”.

“No. I had been staying here a lot since the change too,” I said.

“Which room did you stay in?” she said, and I somehow sensed a slight mocking tone in her voice.

“Well, a number of different rooms… if you check my record, you’d know that I am quite a regular,” I said.

“This is one of my favourite hotels.”

Then came the punchline (a loud drum roll and a huge crash of the cymbals, please).

“Aaaah… nak free voucher la ni ya (you want free vouchers)?” the marketing and communications person retorted with a 'cute laugh'.

I was just stunned! Never in a million years would I ever be a freeloader and this person just decided that I was!

I was speechless and my face turned very red. That could have been one of my most embarrassing moments, witnessed by a whole table of people who were waiting to be served their dinner.

“Aaaah… don’t worry. You already have my card. Lesen besar tu (you have the licence now)…”

I just did not have the stomach to continue my conversation with this person with such an interesting interpersonal skill, so I just slowly turned to the person next to me and decided to talk about something else.

I mean, was this person for real? Did I look like a freeloader? Did I sound like I was soliciting for freebies? I tried to figure out in my head how the simple conversation thing headed that way, but all I could feel was how bruised my ego was.

I had paid for every single

stay there (until that day, as it was part of my assignment), and never had I asked for any discounts, upgrades or special treatments.

In fact, I had met (and made friends) with very nice people there — from the bellman (I am not too comfortable using the term bellboy), housekeepers to the front office personnel and waiters.

The marketing and communications manager (with that interesting interpersonal skills) however, was something else altogether.

Let it go Alam, I thought.

And I did. As dinner progressed, a very polite young chap (he might be the captain of the restaurant) approached our table to check if everything was okay.

We ended up talking about other things and as our conversation got warmer, the marketing and communications manager just appeared out of nowhere and decided to assault me again!

“Tak payah nak interview…

Pinang je!”

I was at loss. I did not really understand what she was implying, so my only response was naturally a feeble “..what?”.

The marketing and communications manager decided to repeat the same line. Then I realised what was happening.

Now, this person thought I was 'flirting' with the captain, and suggested that I should just go straight to the point!

The whole incident was again witnessed by a number of people who also looked pretty lost.

I just clammed up after that, out of massive embarrassment. If I stayed longer, I might just lose it I thought, so I decided to just leave and went back to my room.

Maybe I had a bad day. Or perhaps, the days of brilliant public relations are really gone. Maybe the standards among hotels are getting lower, or the better ones have decided to work and earn more outside the country.

Perhaps that marketing and communications manager had been dealing with too many freeloaders that even I looked and sounded like one.

That person reminded me of my earlier days as a reporter when some presumptuous public relations people would at times use some 'icky tricks' to get us to cover their events.

“Come lah to our function… we have very nice door gifts you know,” was one of the most horrible lines ever thrown at me when I was a young business writer.

“I will go for the story dear, even if there was nothing at the door,” would be my usual answer.

Perhaps I am just too stiff and not equipped with the 'right' sense of humour.

Maybe there are too many opportunists and freeloaders and I was just clueless of their existence.

What happened with the head of marketing and communications was a total contrast to my earlier experience with a humble owner of a low-budget resort (people call it homestay these days).

His name was Abang Bob, a former bank manager who had enough of the city life.

He spent all his savings and bought a piece of land in Teluk Sengat, Johor as part of his retirement plan.

After 12 years of building it from scratch, Abang Bob’s humble resort (which is pretty basic) is now pretty popular among holiday makers and I was told that most of them would come back again for more of his warmth and charm.

Despite his 'grand' background, Abang Bob could be one of the most gracious hosts I’d ever met.

He has a great sense of humour, extremely humble and very, very polite and down to earth.

“What I’ve learnt from my experience in tourism is that it is rarely about the place or the location. Tourism is all about human relations,” he said as I was about to leave his simple abode (I had a wonderful time there).

His resort might not have all the five-star amenities offered by other big hotels, but if you ask me, Abang Bob’s place would now be my first choice…

22

PROPERTY / MOTORING / HEALTH / HOME

the malay mail

Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

Readers can also look out for classified ads ONLINE as early as 9.00a.m at www.mmail.com.my

M30

M130

M130

M133

Apartments for sale

Car for sale

Car for sale

Commercial vehicles for sale

SYMPHONY HEIGHT Batu Caves Unit Terhad Utk Bumi Shj tanpa bayaran muka tanpa SPA fees Tel: 03-6187 7888 / 012-953 6189 Azman

ALL NEW MODELS. Stk available. Attractive promotion.

Stock 2011 Fast delivery. Full loan. Free gifts. 012-326 9849, 012-6961 552

HYUNDAI PROMOTION !!!

Sonata, Tucson, Santa Fe, Starex, Avante, i30, Accent, Getz, i10. Special discount.

Super high trade in (any car).

Low d/p & interest. Easy loan approval. Mystery gift. Beautiful plate no. Fast delivery. Excellent customer service. HQ 012-381 0737

LORRY AVAILABLE IN Six variantsNKR-(4500KG), NPR-(5000KG) Trade -in accepted. Call: 012-333 1189 / 019-329 2222

M33

Apartments to let CASAVISTA CONDO. 17, JALAN KAPAS, BANGSAR. 1288sf with 1 c/park Amazing view and location. pool, gym, tennis court. 4 mins wlk to bsc, quiet, 2 mins to shuttle to KL Sentral. rent - RM 2700-2900 Tel : 011- 1632 6448/ 012- 248 6006

ALZA, MYVI, VIVA. Great disc.

Low d/p. Low interest. 0 d/p can arrange. Nadzrin 019-228 2800 KL, Sel, Putrajaya.

Apartment for sale/to let UKAY PERDANA, Sri Hijauan Aprt. 800sf, 3r2b, s/ pool, security, Sales 135K. Rent 700.

Const. just completed. 012-292 3552 E(3)1317

0 AARON MASSAGE Services (1606620-V) by Female.

Privacy assured. Out call service available. +6012-393 0136

Fashion/health & beauty

CUSTOMIZE HAIRPIECE / Toupee / Wig - RM1,700 only.

More info : www.hairsetup.com Call: 019-3118916 , 03- 9274 7857

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 0166666 132

A DAILY, WEEKLY, MTLY. RM50-RM300. All types of cars. MPV, Van & 4 x 4. Call: ARI 016-683 2111 / BEN 016901 2276

3 HERBALS (Radix Eurycoma, Ginseng & Maca Root) To reestablish sexual performance & General health. 013354 3369/ 012 3026568

PROTON ISWARA SEDAN 1.3 (M) 01/ 02 Whit.One owner, tip top cond, acc free. See to believe. RM7,500 Nego. Mr Raj 012-208 9447 / 013-208 9447

FULL RELAXATION BODY MASSAGE for women only (611230-10-6517) K.Lumpur Outdoor service call: G.S. 012932 9240

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

CHERY EASTAR ES MPV 2.0L.Now with sunroof,free gps and more gifts for May 2011 customer!unbeatable price!call to believe! Terry Nyap 016-812 5671.

M54

PROTON MAC 2.58% Saga FL 37k, d/p 0 9yrs RM398 Pesona 46k, d/p 0 9 yrs RM498 Exora 58k, d/p 0 9 yrs RM 608 - Exchange old car get 6K. SALARY RM1200 aprv. - GOV, BLACKLIST Aprv. Student welcome - loan 140% -Trade in accpt. face book: rejalfaaisproton 013-679 9967

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

THAI MASSAGE Jln Tun Razak, near Pasar Pudu - Wisma Indah, Interested please call: Erna 016-963 6465

HOUSE RENO Painting, A/ cond, marble polish, parquet, carpet, sofa wash, plumbing & grill. NIZAM: 019-3811510

TRADITIONAL MASSAGE Newly Opened in Damansara .Call Sandra,Nancy, or Fifi, Cindy.Tel: 012-258 1334 ( Just Relax Massage Centre )

WOOD STAIRCASE, FLOOR, Timber, Pergoda, Furniture, Kitchen Cabinet, Chengal, Balau, Merbau.

Call: 019-669 0029 Darwin.

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON TO BUY MEN & WOMEN HEALTH PRODUCTS? Tongkat Ali Ginseng, Pearl Collagen Miracle etc?

Want to gain & retain vitality & vigor? Call En.Zaini (free delivery): 012-232 7577

ERA KOMUTER 2.5D (15 seater) Reverse camera, touch screen monitor. Aero seats. LCD monitor & foldable rear seats. Price from RM99,888.00. Era Jinbie 2.2L Petrol (14 seater) Reverse camera. LCD Monitor ABS + EBD Price from RM68,800.

MR Chua 012-855 9229

Car for sale

AROMA ASIAN Massage. For outdoor only. With Promotion price. Interested please Call Julie: 016-293 1051

REPAIR ON THE SPOT., Air cond, fridge, water heater, & w/machine. 24hrs & 7 days operation. Call: Syed 017-388 3154

M393

Home furniture/furnishing

OUTDOOR / INCALL MSSG by local indian girls. 2 1/2 mile jln ipoh. 16-679 7786 / 016-642 3786 Kajal.

MAN MUST TRY!!! Increase Erection & Long lasting. No side effects & Non-addictive, Malaysian Made. Man 0192222 503

TRAD MASSAGE, RM50, SS21/12, PJ. Newly open. Call: 03-7873 0971. Apple/ Ida/ Shasa/ Suzie

M399 OUT DOOR/ HOTEL Full Body massage by young Chinese, Indo, Thai girls. Call: 016-245 1749

SPECIALIST IN REPAIR cushion sofa, curtains, car seat & new sofa, in Jalan Kuchai Lama. Tel: 012- 313 0778 / 03- 7981 1898

M394

Home electrical appliances

Maids available/wanted

Commercial vehicles for sale ONE DAY, WEEKLY, MONTHLY for cars / Mpv manual/ auto.

Expat welcome . Fast delivery.

Call: 017-638 1954 CARS REQUIRED

(NEW) HICOM, High discount, high trade in, cheapest in town.

Call: 016-248 8363 / 012-676 3609.

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

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT Coaching. Take control of your weight. For 1st Free session sms name to 016 2366 381

UNWIND YOURSELF In/ Outcall massage. Buy 3 free 1.

Courses in Beauty & Hair styling. 012-360 5734/ 016-380 1297 AAAAA QUEENS SPA Male and female masseurs, out call service available. Private & Cosy. Call: 03-9057 1336/ 016-646 9891 www.klqueensland.com

M133

Shops for sale/to let

‘0’ DEPOSIT ALL PROTON Models, no license can buy, 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

Home services/renovations

OUTCALL TRADITIONAL MASSAGE, pre / post natal,body Scrub for men / women by experienced masseur. Call: Mira 013-336 3160

A FULL GLAMOUR Massage (001711965-V) by female.

234,Tmn Maluri, 55100 KL. Call: Stella 017-2555 844

M130

Fashion/health & beauty

M392

Office to let

RESTAURANT FOR Sale/ Lease at Jalan Tun Sambanthan 3, Brickfields. KL. Corner lot 100’ X 28’. Renovated, on going business. RM180k Nego.

Rental per mth only RM5000/ Call: 012-233 1252

M390

Home repairs/maintenance

99 MASSAGE & SPA (1452468-W). Massage done by young girls. Release your tensions. Tel: 014-2288 921

ASX. MIT TRITON. PAJERO Sport, Lancer & Grandis. Trade in accepted . Call: 012-977 6961 HARUN

M43

WISMA YAN, Jalan Selangor PJ, Prime & Commercial area, carpark bay, security. Available space Grd floor 5,350sf,1st floor approx 1000 sq ft, 1960sq ft. 2nd floor approx 7,784 sq.

Interested, please call at Doris 03-7955 4157

M321

M135

M38

APARTMENT IN SEC17, 4 Bedrooms, available from 1st June, RM 1,500. FLAT in Sri Manja, available from 1st June, RM 650. Call Foong at 03-4293 6223 / 016-247 5820

Fashion/health & beauty

M321

Vehicles for hire

M34

Properties to let

M321

(NEW) INOKOM & HINO Special promotion, free body.

Call:012-3211 453/ 0123225334

M138

Financing/insurance service

AROMA TRADITIONAL Massage by local Indian girl. Relaxing for male. 1pm -11pm.

Appointment DIVYA 014-6315 227 (002010495-XX)

OUTDOOR-GOOD MASSAGE for better. Pre-Postnatal too. By matured experienced malay. Seeks JV. 017-640 4919 ct Klang.

INDONESIAN HOUSE MAID WANTED. Age below 23. Employer in KL. Email profile and T&C to employer (maid@ gk.my)

M390

Home services/renovations

CAR LOAN Refinancing,Maintain name/ NCB. Blacklisted individual are qualified to apply & purchase. Aerowatts Auto S/B (678070-M) Tel:03-6185 8982, 012-308 3528

BLUE ROSE AROMAS 24A, Lrg Ara Kiri 2, Lucky Gdn Bangsar.Therapist local Indian girls.Private&cosy.11am-11pm. Ms Meera 03-20945542/ 016-2056003

SAUNA D’ HOME BEAUTY and Health care. Agent required. 019-735 5295 www. saunaku.com 2011 Great Promotion!

CENTURY ROLLER SHUTTER specialist. Installation, service & repairing all kind of door roller shutter. Call Lee 012-649 9238

QUALITY USED & New a/cond for sale 1-20 HP.Trade in used Air Cond. Also service, repair & reposition of a/c. 012-229 2289 /03-4295 2133 A/C, ASTRO, Install/remove &repair, TV, TV8, wiring, tel, w/ heater, plumbing, w/ machine, fridge.Call: 017-345 6618 Ah Seng

OTHERS / JOBS / LEGAL / NOTICES

Thursday 19 MAY, 2011 M414

Photography

M303

Computer

M432

Business for sale

M280

Friendship

M515

M515

M515

M515

Jobs

Jobs

Jobs

Jobs

SWEET LADIES Available for close friendship w/without commitment. (free/ladies).Mr. Eddy 017-670 5258 (624468-V)

AN ESTABLISHED Logistics Company urgently required and driver (GDL). Interested please call 03-5638 9533

M370 VIDEO to DVD Conversion.

Video filming & Photography Svs. 03-4041 6850 / 6277 4991 / HP 012-235 5190. www.sheelvision.com

M300

Education

CREATE PROGRAM MLM / Affiliate For your own Products, or your own Website for your MLM Group that you joint.

You can set levels of members from 0 - Unlimited Level, Website Replica, E-Wallet, System Matrix, System REF Sponsor Randomizer / AutoFill / Admin.

Promotion price: RM 950.

(Including Hosting + Domain + Design). Normal price : RM 1500 â “ RM 5000. Www.WangLebat.Com. 016 - 323 5658 / 013 - 3058445. AIDA

M430

Business opportunities OUR MINDS Can heal our body.Heartaches, Headaches, Stress, Pains, Phobias, Fears, Bad Habits?Join 1 hr FREE talk & take home some great ideas how you can heal yourself. Reg. now. Tunku 03-2095 9513.

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

BOUTIQUE IN GIANT hypermarket up for sale! Fully renovated & good location.

700 sq.ft. Start anytime. Call: Mr.Charlie 019-266 5655

Articles for sale

MAMYPOKO/ HUGGIES/MAMAN, Korea/ USA/ Europe.

Direct from factory! Packing 80 pcs. From RM28 SMS: 012624 9699 Ms Lim

AS PART OF Our Diversity & Inclusion work culture, we would like to extend opportunities for experienced retirees and housewives to work in our reputable organization in the areas of finance & accounting; payroll services; and IS. Diploma and/ or Certificate holders are also encouraged to apply. Call Maimunnah at 03-224 69728 for an interview appointment

BUSSINES FOR SALE at Pantai Hill Park. Hair Saloon & Beauty Centre. Regular customer. Good location. Neg. Tel: 010-4389700.

Business Services PLSG ONLINE RM50.00 The Mark of The Great Man.Mobile Agent Wanted. Hotline HQ: 012-758 5800 www.abangpower.com

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

MUSLIM COMPANY Secretary New & Shelf Co. ROC, MOF Bumi Kem. Kewangan Call: 0340410000 / 0162860000

M110

Tour & travel

CRAFT BAKERS, an European style community bakery for breads and sandwiches located at Solaris Dutamas urgently require 2-3 café/bakery staff to prepare sandwiches and coffee. Training will be provided for sandwich / food preparation and for barista skills. Working hour between 8am and 4pm.

Hourly rate between RM6 to RM7 depending on experience and performance. Must be able to speak in English. School leavers are encouraged to apply if you would like to develop skills in bakery industry. Contact Gandhi at 012-290 0504 or email to craftbakers@craftbakers.org.uk.

TOMAZSHOES! LEATHER Shoes! RM69-RM89! High Quality and Comfortable! eCurve, D’sara and IOI Mall, Puchong 017-707 8383

BUY NEW TONER or ink cartridge, HP, Samsung, Canon, Fuji Xerox, Brother, Oki, Lexmark, high value plus bonuses.

Call: 017-674 6308

PERSONAL ASSISTANT (Female) and Models as Umbrella girls. Call Garang Racing. 037784 9241, 019-3633 431

M372

Articles wanted

OWN A COMPUTER, put it to work, Part/ full time income RM1000 - RM8000 . Training provided. SMS 012-4444 033

SBP (UK) - Society of Business Practitioners offers internationally recognized Diplomas.

Upgrade yourself for promotions and salary increment.

Weekend classes at Mâ ™ Sian Approved Study Centre (Reg:M/242/2/11). SMS <name> SEND TO 33310

4D JACKPOT SOFTWARE Super Skill for high accuracy numbers each RM289.90 Call: 013-3257 008 EXECUTIVE DIPLOMA RM3000. BBA, MBA, PHD, US University. Home study, no MQA. Call: 016-672 4995 / 032718 0901 MQA APPROVED DIP.in accountancy (ACCT) & Mgt (FT / PT) RM 400 p/m - PTPTN & EPF claimable. Call: 03-6092 5254 / www.asa.edu.my / SMS: 012- 656 1160.

MQA/ JPA recognised MBA programme.Credit transfer and exemptions acceptable.P/T weekends.EPF withdrawable.

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M580

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LEGAL / NOTICES

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The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

Show us the money!

25

BUKIT JALIL: ATHLETICS

NSC demands finances be returned

By VIJHAY VICK vijhayvick@mmail.com.my

The National Sports Council (NSC) want the national track and field association to either account for the RM280,000 given to them in 2007 or return it.

The funds were given to the Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU) under the core sports programme in 2007.

"I want MAAU to explain what they did with the RM280,000 to purchase equipment for the States," said NSC director-general Datuk Zolkples Embong (pic).

“If they had not used the

money for this specific purpose, they should return it to us. It is the g o v e r n m e n t’s money."

Zolkples added MAAU had ignored letters asking for the return of the funds.

Zolkples also laughed off suggestions that they were plotting to remove Karim Ibrahim as MAAU dep-

MACC should investigate

uty president.

"In the first place, I don't even recognise him as a deputy president. How can I conspire to remove someone I don’t recognise?” he asked.

Karim had claimed NSC were deliberately delaying the funding for European training and competition stints so that

the athletes will fail to better the six gold medal-haul achieved at the Laos Sea Games. Karim had said he would quit if the athletics contingent did not bring back more than six golds from Indonesia this year.

According to Zolkples, NSC will finance the European stint.

The matter, he pointed out, has been discussed and settled with MAAU president Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim.

“By right, I should not approve funds for MAAU until the RM280,000 is returned to us,” he added.

BUKIT JALIL: BADMINTON

Hot favourite just wants to enjoy herself PLAYING WITH A SMILE ON HER FACE: Sonia just wants to have fun on the court

Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union (MAAU) deputy-president Karim Ibrahim (above) wants the anti-corruption body to investigate why the National Sports Council (NSC) had parked about RM500,000 with them four years ago.

“The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) should investigate the whole saga. MAAU never asked for funds to purchase equipment for the States,” said Karim.

“NSC parked the money with us but they were the ones who called for and awarded the tenders.

“We released about RM272,000 for the first tender.

We received a lot of complaints about the quality of the equipment,” added Karim.

Karim admitted MAAU refused to release funds for the second tender and that it was still with them.

“Why should we return the money when NSC still owse us (MAAU) money?” asked Karim.

Karim alleged NSC were supposed to reimburse MAAU when several athletes were sent for overseas competitions and training. He claimed MAAU were owed between RM250,000–RM270,000.

Karim is puzzled why Zolkples is diverting from the core issue, which is the athletes' preparation for the world championships and Sea Games.

“I'm talking about apples but he talks about pineapples,” he concluded.

She may be the hot favourite to contest the National Junior Circuit Grand Prix girls’ under-18 singles final, but Sonia Cheah just wants to have fun.

Following her easy 21-11, 21-5 victory over Kedah’s Lim Sin Pei, Sonia, who was promoted to the national squad along with Yap Li Lian recently, said there is no pressure on her to win the title.

“On paper, Li Lian and I are the favourites but I don’t want to think that far ahead. I’m just competing in this tournament to get more match exposure and to enjoy myself on the court,” said Sonia.

“What’s the use of putting undue pressure on myself when I can only control how I play?

I won’t worry about the rest of my opponents. I hope to win as many matches as I can and if that is good enough to reach the final or win the tournament, so be it.”

Selangor starlet Li Lian, meanwhile, also started her campaign on a winning note, defeating

Penang’s Choo Tze Ai 21-7, 21-9 in a Group B encounter.

Under-18 boys’ singles champion Goh Giap Chin of Penang had a slow start before downing KL’s Chia Yi Jie 21-14, 21-16.

Giap Chin admitted he was lucky to win as Yi Jie made life difficult for him.

“I have not been feeling very well lately and only just resumed training,” said Giap Chin.

“I think if the match had gone to a rubber game, I may have lost.

I have to stay focused as I know it won’t be easy this year. There is no pressure on me to defend the title. My coach works with me to build up my mental strength and I feel fine.

He added KL’s Zulfadli Zulkifli poses the biggest threat this year, with the former Selangor player winning both Zone B legs held earlier this year.

A total of 322 players from all over the country are participating in the competition which offers cash prizes worth RM22,800.

26

sports

The Malaysian Hockey Federation (MHF) will forgo domestic meets in the hope that the national team perform well during Olympic qualifying

Not just making up the numbers

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

KUALA LUMPUR: HOCKEY

CBN aim to make an impact

CHAMPIONS! The Convent Bukit Nenas team celebrate winning the KL schools' under-18 championship

CBN stronger than ever, thanks to coach IF not for the unbridled passion of one man, Convent Bukit Nanas will not be the powerhouse they are today in hockey.

That man is 68-year-old Mohamed Noor Hasim (pic), who is driving the team to new heights by ensuring their participation in the KL

women's league.

"When I heard about the league, I immediately knew I wanted my players in it.

This is great exposure for the players. This league will be running for three months. That is superb for this young team. If they can remain focused, they can even win it," he said.

"This league will also prepare us for premier schools tournaments. The players will definitely learn a lot from playing against more experienced teams."

Although he has no formal background in coaching hockey, Mohamed Noor uses his playing experience from his time with the Armed Forces to great advantage.

Mohamed Noor and his assistant Kamarulzaman Mohamed have been coaching CBN since 2004.

"I started coaching when my son started playing for St John Institution. In 2004, CBN approached me for help," he added.

CBN are having a good run now as they have won the KL schools' under-18 title for three consecutive years.

MOTHER'S PRIDE: Fatimah (right), seen here with a teammate, has her mother Noormah Shaari to thank for her involvement in the sport

InTheD

with G. Prakash prakash@mmail.com.my

CONVENT Bukit Nenas are looking to stamp their name in the inaugural KL women's league.

T he y pl ay t he i r f i rst match on Sunday at Pantai Stadium against SMK Seri Titiwangsa (7pm), who played two matches last weekend. It is pertinent to point out CBN beat the project school 2-0 in a KL schools second round match.

The conf idence le vel of the Convent girls is at an all-time high, having recently been crowned KL schools' under-18 champions. CBN are one of two schools in the nine-team league which started last weekend.

CBN skipper Fatimah Zahra said participating in t he women's le ague was a new learning curve for them. This means they are no longer comp eting against their peers but rather against more matured teams.

Fatimah said they train at least four times a week.

"Eight of our players were shortlisted for the KL under-18 team. That says a lot about the quality of our team," added Fatimah.

Besides Fatimah, the others are Amirah Nadheirah Su haimi, Nur Ama lina R a s h i d , Nu r S y a h i r a h Izzat i, Put r i Nat asha Me g at Z a i n i , A z n i d a h Nurhalili, Hazmira Almaz and Nur Najihah Mohd Zaini.

Several players from the s cho ol's under-15 side were also included in the team.

"The coach reckons the younger players need to be exposed as well as they are the future of school hockey," she said.

The other teams in the league are Pahang Sukma, UiTM, KL Hockey Club, Police, KL Sukma, Army and Dutch Ladies.

Skipper makes mum proud THERE is always a story behind one's ambition and it is no different with Convent Bukit Nenas skipper Fatimah Zahra.

The 17-year-old wants to one day play for the national team but it is a dream invoked by her mother, Noormah S h a a r i . I r o n i c a l l y, Noormah never played hockey or any other sport.

"I was s o happy when Fatimah took my suggestion and joined the school's hockey team. When I was young I wanted to play hockey but my parents didn't allow it as they felt it was a dangerous sport.

Moreover, they wanted me to concentrate on my studies," said Noormah.

When Fatimah heard her mum's story, she immediately knew what she wanted to do.

With her mother's unwavering support, Fatimah started excelling in the game.

She was about 10 when that journey started.

"I recall that Fatimah fell in love with the game

immediately. She had natural talent. Fatimah picked up the basics very quickly.

"She was very enthusiatic.

Every time she went out for training or matches, she would have plenty of stories to tell about what went on.

And if she had scored a goal that day... habislah... we'll have to listen to her for the rest of the night," added Noormah.

Fatimah even played for the KL under-15 team two years ago when they emerged champions.

Noormah is proud her eldest daughter's ability to juggle hockey and studies.

Fatimah said she is always inspired when she sees her mother cheering for the team.

"She is there for matches and even training. She is always full of encouraging words, not only for me, but for my teammates as well.

"I know there is a long way to go before I can be a national player, but with the support I get from my mother I can achieve the dream which I now share with her," she said.

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

It's a lot of effort, but we're getting there. See you in Paris," — Juan Martin del Potro on Twitter, confirming his participation in the French Open

Serb wonder

FrenchOpen

sports

27

LONDON: TENNIS/Frenchopen

Legend McEnroe hails Djokovic's amazing unbeaten run

TENNIS legend John McEnroe says Novak Djokovic's superb 37-match unbeaten run this year is more impressive than his own record-breaking streak in 1984.

Should Djokovic reach the final of the upcoming French Open, the Serb will beat McEnroe's record start to a year of 42 unbeaten matches set 27 years ago.

"There is more competition, more athleticism, deeper fields and more depth in the sport," said McEnroe. "So his record is even more impressive than mine.

"Also in 1984 the Australian Open was played at the end of the year so I hadn't played a major when I put that run together. My first major was the French where the streak was broken."

Djokovic, who will be 24 on Sunday, has had a stunning start to this year, winning the

SUPERB PERFORMANCE: Djokovic's winning run extends to last year's Davis Cup — GETTYpic

Australian Open and four Masters Series events — including last weekend's victory over 'King of Clay' and world No 1 Rafael Nadal in Rome.

The week before, Djokovic won the Madrid Open — ending Nadal's excellent run on clay in the final.

The world No 2 now has the chance to eclipse McEnroe's record start to a season at the French Open, which was where

Ivan Lendl ended the American's streak.

Djokovic would also close in on the best-ever winning run of 46 straight victories set by stylish Argentine Guillermo Vilas in 1977.

"For me personally it brings back memories of 1984," said McEnroe.

"I'm quite excited at the timing of this because he could break my record at the French

Defending champion Rafael Nadal is aiming to equal Bjorn Borg’s record of six French Open titles in the open era – victory at Roland Garros would be the Spaniard’s 10th overall Grand Slam title MOST FRENCH OPEN TITLES* Total Bjorn Borg SWE 1974-75, 1978-81 6 ESP 2005, 06, 07, 08, 10 5 Rafael Nadal Mats Wilander SWE 1982, 85, 88 3 CZE 1984, 86, 87 Ivan Lendl 3 Gustavo Kuerten BRA 1997, 2000, 01 3 Jan Kodes CZE 1970, 71 2 Jim Courier USA 1991, 92 2 Sergi Bruguera ESP 1993, 94 2 *Since 1968 OPEN ERA RECENT CHAMPIONS CHAMPIONS BY ESP 2010 Rafael Nadal COUNTRY* SUI 2009 Roger Federer SWE 9 ESP 2008 Rafael Nadal ESP 11 ESP 2007 Rafael Nadal ESP 2006 Rafael Nadal SUI 1 CZE 5 ESP 2005 Rafael Nadal RUS 1 ROM 1 2004 Gaston Gaudio ARG ITA 1 USA 4 2003 Juan Carlos Ferrero ESP FRA 1 AUS ESP 2002 Albert Costa ECU 1 ARG 2 BRA 2001 Gustavo Kuerten BRA AUT 1 2 3

Open. I've followed his progPicture: Getty Images ress and to put it Source: Roland Garros mildly, it's been However, McEnroe warned quite amazing to see how much confidence he is Djokovic — who this week became the first player to qualify playing with.

"It's impressive given he for the 2011 ATP World Tour came in number three and to Finals — that Nadal will be a dominate Roger Federer and different prospect over a fiveNadal the way he has, to see set match, should the pair meet what he has done, it's a little at the French Open.

"Nadal is certainly tougher surprising."

© GRAPHIC NEWS

to beat in a best-of-five match," said McEnroe.

"Going back to 1984, I beat Lendl twice on clay going into the French Open then got up two sets and lost in five. Certainly Novak has to be careful because Nadal fights right to the end."

28

sports

Michael Schumacher will be back on form in the Spanish GP following a disappointing race in Turkey â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Mercedes GP Petronas boss Ross Brawn

Not invincible BARCELONA: motorsport/formula one

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

up the tempo: Jenson Button feels McLaren still has a chance to usurp Formula One leaders Red Bull this year â&#x20AC;&#x201D; GETTYpic

Red Bulls can crack if pressured, says Button MCLAREN'S Jenson Button is convinced Red Bull Racing will crack if put under pressure.

Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel has so far had it easy this season, winning three of the four Grands Prix to date and finishing second in the other from a run of four consecutive pole positions.

Vettel's championship lead is such that even if the German suffered a failure on Sunday in the Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya he would still retain top spot.

Currently McLaren's Lewis Hamilton is Vettel's nearest challenger, albeit 34 points adrift, while Button is 47 off the pace, virtually akin to two race victories.

After being trounced by Red Bull in Turkey 10 days ago when Vettel spearhead-

ed the team's first one-two of the season, it is now up to McLaren to try and turn the screw on their rivals.

"We can't stand still, we have to move forward," Button told PA Sport.

"This team will never give up, I know that, and I have every faith they will bring some good improvements to Barcelona.

"Definitely the Red Bulls are quick and they have a lot of points on the board, but it can all turn around very quickly as soon as you put them under pressure. So we have to make sure that sooner rather than later we start doing that."

All Button is asking for this weekend is "more pace" to compete with Red Bull on a track where they suffered in pre-season testing.

The current car has im-

proved enormously since that disaster, but as Button rightly points out, McLaren are "never going to find two seconds from race to race".

"We were in a bad place before the year started," said Button.

"But you have to forget about what happened in the winter and start with what happened at the first race and move from there.

"We're all doing our best to improve the car, but we didn't put anything on it over the weekend in Turkey.

"Hopefully, we'll turn up in Barcelona and we'll have more pace. That is what we need, to get more stuff on the car as quick as we can.

"It's something we're obviously aiming for and hopefully we'll make some changes in other areas as well that will help us and we'll be

fighting the cars in front of us, not just the Red Bulls.

"Obviously everyone is doing as good a job as they can, but you always want more.

"Every race you go to you need to improve the car, and we didn't do that in Turkey because the best of our two cars was fourth."

As much as Button wants to see improvement, McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh cannot promise anything, not after encountering a number of issues with the planned upgrades in Istanbul.

"As we saw, there is always risk inherent in bringing any upgrade to the circuit, particularly following the absence of testing," said Whitmarsh.

"For Barcelona, we're planning to re-introduce some of the proposed up-

grades initially scheduled for introduction in Istanbul.

Again, however, they'll only

be introduced if their initial deployment in practice on Friday proves successful."

The Malay Mail Thursday ● 19 MAY, 2011

I am leaving the club after 10 unforgettable years. It's a consensual divorce, but I have not spoken with Juventus. I am here to say goodbye." — AC Milan's Andrea Pirlo

Handy Raul

MADRID: EURO 2012 QUALIFIERS

the striker during a fouryear stint with Real between 1999-2003.

"Sure, Raul can come back.

He is a team player and playing outside of Spain is an asset to our football," said Del Bosque.

"It is a good time for Spanish football and this is reflected by players like Raul.

He is an example for football, a neighbourhood kid who has always shown exemplary behaviour."

Raul has 102 caps, and his 44 goals made him Spain's all time top scorer until Barcelona striker David Villa reached 46 recently.

Spain will play friendlies against the United States and Venezuela on June 1 and June 7 respectively with Raul a possible inclusion in the squad.

BILBAO: PRIMERA LIGA

Ballesteros inspires Westwood

HOMECOMING: Raul (centre) could be set to return from his international exile after Spain coach Vicente Del Bosque hinted the Schalke striker would still be welcomed into the national team — GETTYpic

TURIN: SERIE A

Llorente happy at Aquilani unsure Bilbao, for now where he will end up next season

ATHLETIC BILBAO striker Fernando Llorente (pic) is only looking towards his future with the Basque club — dismissing rumours of a possible summer switch to Real Madrid.

The 26-year-old Spain international has been in superb form this season, scoring 17 goals in Primera Liga from 36 appearances.

Athletic are currently sixth in the table and will look to secure a Europa League spot when they face Racing Santander on Saturday.

Llorente's form for club and country has led to the likes of Real showing an interest, yet he appears happy to stay at the club he has been at since the tender age of 11.

"I'm happy and calm at the moment. I am dedicated to me and I have already said I will have nothing to do with it (possible switch to Real)," Llorente told Marca.

He currently has two years left on his contract but he is willing to sit down with the club's board at the end of the season to discuss a possible new deal.

"The truth is that we have had conversations with the president but it's time to be quiet. The first thing is to finish either fifth or sixth this season, which is very

important because it will mean we will get extra days off which we could really use," he said.

One of the reasons for Llorente's happiness is his relationship with manager Joaquin Caparros, who he enjoys working with.

"I can only say good things about Caparros. He came to a side that were struggling for survival and has been doing a goo job. He has created a wonderful group. We are a young team eager to do well," said Llorente.

Llorente will also be looking to be selected for Spain's June friendlies against the United States and Venezuela next month. He now has seven goals in 13 international appearances.

THE agent for Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani admitted he is still unsure where the Italian will be playing his football next season.

The playmaker has spent the past season on loan at Juventus from the Reds, but their first option to sign the 27-year-old on a permanent basis expired last Sunday.

It is believed Juventus have refused to pay the asking price demanded by Liverpool for the player's permanent signature, opening up an opportunity for other clubs to pursue him.

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish previously indicated he would have Aquilani back at Anfield if they had the opportunity, but no decision has been made yet.

The Anfield outfit signed Aquilani for a fee believed to be up to £20 million from Roma in 2009 as a replacement for Xabi Alonso, but injuries and a lack of fitness severely hindered his single campaign on Merseyside.

Former Reds boss Roy Hodgson let Aquilani join Juventus to get him regular first-team football, but it appears the Italy interna-

AQUILANI

tional wants to stay in his homeland.

The player's agent Franco Zavaglia, however, denied any link with Inter Milan, AC Milan or former club Roma.

"I don't know if there are still possibilities for him to remain at Juventus, I cannot say, you have to ask Juventus," Zavaglia told calciomercatoweb.it.

"I had to do ever ything I did in S e pt e mb e r, n ow it depends on them and I cannot talk about figures.

"Aquilani is a Liverpool player and will possibly return to England, but it is clear that, if there was the opportunity to stay in Italy he'd stay here."

29

CASARES, SPAIN: GOLF

Schalke striker may make a return for Spain

SPAIN coach Vicente Del Bosque has left the door open for Schalke striker Raul to make a sensational return to the national team.

The former Real Madrid star has been in international exile since September 2006 when he was involved in Spain's 3-2 shock loss to Northern Ireland in a Euro 2008 qualifier.

Raul has enjoyed a successful maiden campaign at Schalke — scoring 19 goals in 49 appearances — to help the German club reach the semifinals of the Champions League, only to be beaten by Manchester United, and the DFB Pokal final, where they will play Duisburg..

The 33-year-old's season has impressed many including Del Bosque, who managed

sports

LEE WESTWOOD will draw inspiration from the late Seve Ballesteros' sheer will to win as he battles to retain his world No. 1 ranking at the World Match Play Championship at Costa del Sol this week.

Briton Westwood could be overtaken by second-placed compatriot Luke Donald or Germany's Martin Kaymer, in third place, if either win.

Spaniard legend Ballesteros claimed the World Match Play Championship five times when it was played at Wentworth, England.

Westwood was a winner in the event at Wentworth in 2000.

"Relating to this week, the way Ballesteros played match play he never gave anything away," said Westwood, who is bidding for a third successive title this year.

"With the fight he showed, he was never really out of a hole. Even if he was in the worst lie and the worst spot you always thought he had a chance of getting the ball up and down.

"That kind of flair is always going to be difficult to play against in match play and that's probably why he was so successful in this tournament.

"But it was his short game that stood out and some of the miraculous shots he played. He had a lot of imagination, obviously, and feel."

Westwood also expressed admirat ion for D ona ld, admitting the way in which his compatriot has improved his game this season to become his biggest threat.

"You don't get to number two in the world without having a lot of strengths and very few weaknesses. If you make a significant move as he has done and shown the consistency he's shown, you have to have improved in every area by a small percentage," said Westwood.

Westwood agreed with Donald that Britain could be proud of their status in golf.

"It's the first time a country has had one and two in the world other than United States and it just shows the state of English and British golf right now," he said.

"We have two Northern Irishmen in the top six (fifth placed Graeme McDowell a n d s i x t h p l a c e d R or y McIlroy), and Briton Paul Casey at ninth."

30

sports

PremierLeague

You would have to be drunk to leave Carlos Tevez out of Argentina team — Diego Maradona

WOLVERHAMPTON

PRESSTALK

Wolves unlikely to sack McCarthy

WO LV E S o w n e r S t e v e Morgan dropped a large hint that Mick McCarthy (pic) will remain as manager even if the club are relegated.

Former Liverpool shareholder Morgan, who took over the Midlands club in 2007, insists he will never give "the dreaded vote of confidence" to any manager.

But he has g ive n h is support to McCarthy and stressed the need for stabil-

ity rather than chopping and changing as has been the case at other clubs.

"You never give the dreaded vote of confidence but McCarthy has been here for five years and I don't believe you get any progress at all by chopping and changing," said Morgan.

"Chopping and changing has happened in other clubs and what good has it done them?

"I know McCarthy has

made progress every year since I've been here. There are times in life when things don't go right but you've got to get back up and stand together and make sure you get it right next time.

"The fans have seen that, they've got behind the club and everyone benefits from it."

Morgan believes Wolves under McC ar t hy have progressed well since he replaced Glenn Hoddle as

DAILY MIRROR

Carry on Scholes

manager in July of 2006.

"The team have made progress in all four years I've been here under McCarthy.

The first year we missed the play-offs by one goal, the second year we were champions, the third year we established ourselves in the Premier League for the first time in the club's history.

"This year we are already two points ahead of last year despite being in a relegation fight still."

Given poser

MANCHESTER

Goalkeeper may leave City to play regularly

GIVEN

LONDON

STRIKER Daniel Sturridge warned parent club Chelsea he will be forced to look elsewhere if he is not a first-team regular next season.

The 21-year-old has proven his Premier League pedigree during a loan spell at Bolton — scoring eight goals in 11 appearances since his arrival last January.

That return is considerably better than the combined efforts of those still at Stamford Bridge, with Fernando Torres, Didier

GOALKEEPER Shay Given admits the lure of Champions League football may not be enough to keep him at Manchester City next season.

The Republic of Ireland international is second choice at the club, having lost his place to England international Joe Hart at the start of the season.

Given has only figured in cup games this season, with Hart having played every minute of every game of City's Premier League matches.

Arsenal and Tottenham are reportedly keen on taking the former Newcastle goalstopper away from Eastlands, but will face a challenge trying to take a player still rated as one of the league's best away from their top-four rivals.

Given, 35, concedes he wants first-team action on a regular basis next term, mainly on the basis that he wants to be match fit when called upon for both club and country.

"I'd like to be playing and I don't know what will happen

in the summer," he said. "I don't know if being part of the Champions League will persuade me to stay — there's a lot of questions I don't really have the answer to.

"I know there's a lot worse clubs you could be at than City, but I don't feel matchsharp when I go to Ireland because I haven't played. It's frustrating, but the manager made his decision at the start of the season and that's his decision."

Meanwhile, Hart admits he still finds it hard to believe that he is number one at City ahead of Given.

Hart has enjoyed a fantastic season for City breaking Nicky Weaver's record of 26 clean sheets in a season with 28 to date before the final game of the season.

He admits the competition from Given and Stuart Taylor keeps him on his toes.

"With the two goalkeepers at our place — Taylor who is a great goalkeeper and obviously Given, who I still can't believe that I manage to get a game ahead of at the moment

— it keeps me on my toes and I realise I have to play well week-in, week-out," Hart told Sky Sports.

Hart admits he is not sure if his form this season has been the best of his career as he feels his defenders in front of him deserve a lot of the credit for City's success this season.

"It's hard to say if I am in the form of my life," he said.

"Between it all I wasn't happy with one of my performances recently so I wouldn't say I am in the form of my life, but I am getting some consistency and we are defending well as a team."

Hart is hoping City can end the season on a high by beating Bolton on Sunday to ensure a third place finish in the league.

"We've had a tough season and we've had a lot building up to the end of the season, that's when we were required to really bring that home and at the moment we are doing that and hopefully we can continue that on Sunday," he said.

Sturridge warns Chelsea Drogba and Nicolas Anelka all struggling for form.

Sturridge, who will see out the campaign with Bolton, hopes his efforts at Reebok S t a d i u m w i l l c o nv i n c e Chelsea that he is worthy of a starting role next season.

It remains to be seen whether he will be granted that wish, with there still some confusion as to who will be in charge of the Blues next term.

The England Under-21 international made it clear,

however, to whoever is at the helm that he expects to be given games or he will seek another move.

"I want to play first-team football regularly for Chelsea Football Club," Sturridge told Sky Sports News.

"I love the club. I have been at the club now for a yearand-a-half and have been on loan at Bolton. I love playing football for Chelsea.

"I don't want to say I am going to leave the club, I want to play regularly, but

for me next season it is very important to play first-team football. I want to play at Chelsea but if the chances don't come at Chelsea, then I will have to look elsewhere."

On whether he would look for another loan deal or a permanent switch, Sturridge said: "Whatever Chelsea's decision is. It's not for me to make that decision.

"The only decision I can make is I want to play firstteam football and that's the

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

one that I choose to take.

First-team football is very important for me next season."

While Sturridge has found himself deemed surplus to requirements by Chelsea this season, he insists the current campaign has been a productive one on the whole.

"It's not frustrating at all. I'm enjoying my time at Bolton, it's been going great.

I love playing for Chelsea and there is nothing else to say," he said.

GARY NEVILLE urged old mate Paul Scholes not to quit at the end of this season.

The Manchester United midfielder is yet to confirm whether he will accept the one-year contract offer Alex Ferguson made earlier this season.

Chief executive David Gill admitted he fears Scholes may walk away with the minimum of fuss, which would be totally in character for the publicity shy 36-year-old.

Neville knows there is little chance of Scholes taking any notice of what he says.

DAILY STAR

FA speak to Allardyce on bung allegations SAM ALLARDYCE will be spoken to by the FA as part of their investigation into allegations a £50,000 bung was paid to an unlicensed agent, following Gael Givet’s move to Blackburn.

Allardyce was Rovers boss at the time Givet joined the club for £3.5m from Marseille in 2009.

FA officials are looking into claims middleman Phil Black persuaded Givet to hand over £50,000 for his role in setting up the move.

Givet, 29, insists Black even picked him up at Liverpool airport and drove him to meet Allardyce, who went on to be sacked by Rovers before Christmas.

The FA are studying documentation before they decide their next step. But they are expected to interview Allardyce and others who worked at the club at the time.

FA rules prohibit any third party being paid for a transfer unless they are a licensed agent.

THE SUN

Di Canio keen to take over West Ham

PAOLO DI CANIO has told West Ham: "I'm the man to get you back into the Premier League."

The Italian claims he is on the brink of securing a coaching position with an English side in time for next season's kick-off.

And the 42-year-old former West Ham striker insists he would 'give everything' for the club should co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan install him as boss.

Di Canio said: "I believe my future will be in England. In the next few days something will happen, perhaps in an inferior division.

"I am very saddened by West Ham's relegation. This team have always been in my heart."

The Malay Mail Thursday 19 may, 2011

I'll take stock of my life, my position and whether I want to (continue). And it's whether the owners and the hierarchy of the football club want you to — Cardiff manager Dave Jones

Presstalk

DAILY MIRROR

City to make shock Ronaldo bid MANCHESTER CITY are ready to smash the world transfer record to bring Cristiano Ronaldo back to the Premier League. Roberto Mancini's men joined European football's elite last week by qualifying for the Champions League for the first time.

Now City want the Portuguese superstar to spearhead their bid to win the trophy next season.

Ronaldo, 26, moved to Real Madrid from Manchester United in a record £80 million move in 2009 and signed a six-year contract worth over £100m.

Under Jose Mourinho this season, he has equalled the goals record in a Primera Liga campaign — 38 — and still has a game to go.

DAILY MIRROR

Hazard to the Kop? LIVERPOOL have made a formal approach for £20 million-rated rising star Eden Hazard.

Anfield chiefs asked the young winger’s French side Lille to keep them informed of all developments in the closeseason chase for the Belgium international.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is ready to battle it out with other interested parties, such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid, for the signature of one of the finest new talents in European football.

Hazard won’t come cheap.

He has been valued at £20 million by Lille, and is sure to command a massive fee with such a clamour for his services from the top clubs.

THE SUN

Chelsea and Real to fight for Kun CHELSEA'S hopes of signing Sergio 'Kun' Aguero this summer have been dealt a blow

by Real Madrid joining the race to sign him.

Jose Mourinho is keen to add a striker to beef up his side's attack, with Emmanuel Adebayor likely to be shipped back to Manchester City when his loan spell ends in June.

And he has made Atletico Madrid hitman Aguero — who has been tracked by Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti — his No 1 target.

Mourinho hopes to pair Aguero in a new-look attack alongside Cristiano Ronaldo but would need around £30 million to sign the 22-yearold Argentine.

sports

Offended Holloway

31

BLACKPOOL: premierleague

RESULTS

Blackpool boss blasts Premier League to fine United if they field 'understrength side'

MANAGER Ian Holloway believes the Premier League would be glad to see the back of Blackpool if they lose their fight for survival on Sunday.

Holloway is furious at claims Manchester United could get fined if Alex Ferguson fields an understrength team and Blackpool secure top-flight survival by becoming the first team this season to win at Old Trafford.

Not only does Holloway feel it undermines his own team, he is also indignant at the suggestion Ferguson is not bothered about finishing the league on a high note.

And he is coming to the view that the game's authorities do not want him around.

"They will be relieved if we lose and get relegated," said Holloway.

"Then I am not badgering them. I am so annoyed. FerLONDON

guson is a winner. He would never dream of not being interested in winning any match.

"That man deserves to pick whatever team he wants to pick. No one should question it. Look at his record. Those people running the game, what planet are they on? They must have beamed down from Planet Zarf. They are not in the right world.

"They think we can only beat United if they are weak.

What a load of baloney. Unfortunately, that is what we are dealing with.

"Already, they are saying Blackpool can't beat them.

I am glad I don't go to work thinking that, otherwise I would never have got promoted last year. I would have been relegated from the Championship because that is what everyone said was going to

happen.

"That attitude offends me. It upsets me on a personal note about my club and definitely on a United note. How dare they talk about Sir Alex like that? Haven't they seen his hairdryer? Haven't they seen how successful he is.

"Ask Schalke if they think United have a weak team.

"On Sunday, we have to try and do the impossible. It's got to be perfect. No one else has beaten them. And if we do, they might get fined because we are rubbish."

If Holloway has not had enough to contend with this week trying to get his head round a situation where Blackpool could win and go down on Sunday, or lose and stay up, there have also been contracts to sort out.

Due to the nature of the deals Blackpool got their play-

Sullivan amused by unexpected snubs

WEST HAM co-owner David Sullivan is amused that certain individuals have moved to rule themselves out of becoming the next Upton Park manager.

The Hammers sacked boss Avram Grant immediately after the 3-2 defeat at Wigan last Sunday, which confirmed their relegation from the Premier League.

Grant's departure has seen the likes of former England coach Steve McClaren and Brighton manager Gus Poyet rule themselves out of the running for the Hammers hotseat.

While Sullivan did not name the pair, the co-owner admitted he thought it was odd that managers have made the public move to distance themselves from the role.

"We are amused by certain individuals saying they don't want the job when they haven't been considered for it," he told the London Eve-

On the hunt: Sullivan refused to be drawn on possible managerial targets on Wednesday — GETTYpic

ning Standard.

"We've had approaches by some good candidates but we treat all applications as confidential."

West Ham have vowed to appoint a new manager by the end of this month as they look to bounce back from the Championship at the first at-

tempt.

Former Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is understood to be high on the wanted list again having been offered and turned down the job during January, while Stratford-born former Newcastle manager Chris Hughton is also believed to be in the running.

MISSION impossible: Premier League wants us relegated says Ian Holloway — GETTYpic

ers to sign last summer, most require formal notification by this weekend about whether they will staying or not.

Ian Evatt and Keith Southern have already been given new contracts, Brett Ormerod is still negotiating his, whilst Stephen Crainey, Matthew Gilks and David Vaughan have rejected their initial offers.

"There has been no leeway.

My chairman has done the bare minimum at this moment. If we stay up, they will have a chance to negotiate better terms," said Holloway.

"It is slightly demotivating. I guess this weekend will see if I am any good as a motivator."

SUNDAY Aston Villa v Liverpool Bolton v Man City Everton v Chelsea Fulham v Arsenal Man United v Blackpool Newcastle v West Brom Stoke v Wigan Tottenham v Birmingham West Ham v Sunderland Wolves v Blackburn

Standings

P W D L F A Pts *Man Utd 37 22 11 4 74 35 77 Chelsea 37 21 8 8 69 32 71 Man City 37 20 8 9 58 33 68 Arsenal 37 19 10 8 70 41 67 Tottenham 37 15 14 8 53 45 59 Liverpool 37 17 7 13 59 43 58 Everton 37 12 15 10 50 45 51 Fulham 37 11 15 11 47 41 48 Stoke 37 13 7 17 46 47 46 Bolton 37 12 10 15 52 54 46 West Brom 37 12 10 15 53 68 46 Newcastle 37 11 12 14 53 54 45 Aston Villa 37 11 12 14 47 59 45 Sunderland 37 11 11 15 42 56 44 Blackburn 37 10 10 17 43 57 40 Wolves 37 11 7 19 44 63 40 Birmingham 37 8 15 14 36 56 39 Blackpool 37 10 9 18 53 74 39 Wigan 37 8 15 14 39 61 39 *West Ham 37 7 12 18 43 67 33 * Note: Man United are champions.

West Ham relegated

MUNICH

Lehmann may continue stint with Gunners VETERAN German goalkeeper Jens Lehmann (right) revealed he could remain at Arsenal in a playing capacity beyond the end of the current season.

The former VfB Stuttgart man retired at the end of the 2009-2010 Bundesliga season but was persuaded to re-join the Gunners last March after they suffered an injury crisis.

Lehmann accepted Arsene Wenger's offer to return to the Emirates and, despite only playing once since signing a short-term contract, he told German newspaper Bild he could surprise everyone by continuing for a further year.

"It was not really a comeback, but more of a last resort — actually more of a hobby," said the 41-year-old. "I took three weeks to get really fit — and then I had to play against Blackpool. I thought 'You can do it still. It is not forgotten'.

"From my performance I would be able to continue

playing. My teammates are always asking me if I'll still be here next season.''

But even if he decides to retire for a second time the former Schalke and Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper is likely to remain in football as he continues working towards his coaching badges, with England as a preferred destination once the course is completed.

"I can very well imagine a job in football. First, I'll probably end my trainer course,'' he said. "When you have such personalities as Alex Ferguson at Manchester United and Wenger at Arsenal, this (England) is the ideal solution.''

SHAY LEAVING A GIVEN? Look out for

BackToSchool with Vijhay Vick

Thursday 19 MAY, 2011

tomorrow

LONDON

Henry tried to get Pires to play in US ASTON VILLA midfielder Robert Pires revealed former Arsenal teammate Thierry Henry tried to persuade him to join him in the United States at the end of his contract.

The 37-year-old Pires joined Villa last November and despite having only made 12 appearances so far for the club, he still believes he can justify a contract extension and will not bring the curtain down on his career if he does not get a new deal.

“Henry has phoned me.

He called me up and said come over and play with him in the US, but there are no real offers yet,” Pires told Daily Express.

“I have not had talks with Villa yet about staying after July. I should know soon hopefully, I have an appointment with manager Gerard Houllier soon. I hope I can stay and also I hope that Gerard can stay, but it could be very complicated for him.

“I will still play football, of course, even if it is not at Villa. I’m OK here for the next season but if not I will look somewhere different because I still feel fit enough to play.

“For the moment there is nothing else, because the league is not finished. I will wait until it is finished. I am relaxed about it.”

Pires also admitted he was yet to decide on what he will do after his career, but revealed the health of Houllier may have deterred him from management.

“I don’t know for the moment. Coaching? Maybe but not number one because it is too hard. I’ve seen, not only with Houllier, how high the pressure can be.

“Number two or number three or working with the youngsters I would prefer to do that but not as the main manager, that is too hard.

“I haven’t done my badges yet, but maybe I will do them after my career — maybe in July if nobody wants me to play!”

local

TENNIS

The National Sports Council and the Malaysian Amateur Athletics Union are at loggerheads over borrowed funds

LEGEND John McEnroe hailed Novak Djokovic’s (right) 37-match unbeaten run as more amazing than his own record of 42 unbeaten matches set 27 years ago

Fighting over finances

>> pg25

Better than mine

MANCHESTER CITY goalkeeper Shay Given admits he may have to leave to get more playing time despite the lure of Champions League football

MOTORSPORT

PRESSTALK

MCLAREN driver Jenson Button is convinced Red Bull will eventually succumb if put under enough pressure

CRISTIANO RONALDO could break the world transfer record again if Manchester City’s bid to bring him back to Manchester this summer is successful

Watch them crack

City want Cristiano

>> pg28

>> pg31

>> pg30

>> pg31

DUBLLIN: FOOTBALL/EUROPAleague

Falcao special Hot-shot striker steers Porto to Europa League triumph GOAL-MACHINE Radamel Falcao (pic) struck his 17th goal of the competition as Porto beat underdogs and Portuguese compatriots Braga 1-0 at Aviva Stadium this morning to win the Europa League.

And the success means Andre Villas-Boas has written his name into the history books as the 33-year-old Porto manager claimed his third trophy of an incredible first season in charge and also becomes the youngest to win a Uefa competition.

The match may not have been a pulsating affair, but that should not detract from the magnitude of Villas-Boas’ achievements.

He has enjoyed a stellar first full campaign in management, clinching the league unbeaten and the Portuguese Super Cup before this morning’s victory, which guarantees him a place alongside some of Porto’s coaching greats.

Two of Villas-Boas’ mentors, Bobby Robson and Jose Mourinho both won Europe’s

second tier competition with the club and the fact that the Dragons have rampaged through Portugal and Europe this season will only serve to strengthen rumours linking the Porto boss with a summer move to one of the continent’s heavyweights.

Falcao, who has also been attracting the big clubs in Europe, struck the winner in the 44th minute via a delightful header. And he was in wonderland as soon as the match ended, just like his teammates and boss Villas-Boas.

“I am happy, very happy in this unique moment but I am especially so for the team. I have to thank God that Porto were able to be in such a position,” Falcao told A Bola.

Although the Colombian has been very much the star of the team, he was quick to stress their success was very much the result of a collective effort.

“Being the top goalscorer, scoring the most goals, that is a separate issue — what really matters is that the team win.

The secret is the strong desire shown by everyone,” said the 25-year-old former River Plate striker.

Meanwhile, Villas-Boas revealed he experienced mixed emotions after watching his side triumph “I feel just a little sad because both teams and the final could have been better. Both were well aware of the occasion but that is nothing new in a final,” he said.

“However, there is also a great deal of joy after winning the trophy and this end to the season is absolutely remarkable.”

Villas-Boas paid tribute to Braga, whom he said ensured the win was hard-fought.

“Braga were very aggressive though and were very compact in their defensive block, thus making our work very difficult,” he said.

And now Villas-Boas and his men can complete a historic quadruple on Sunday when they face Vitoria Guimaraes in the final of the Taca de Portugal.

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