22 August 2011

Monday 22 august, 2011

PP423/01/2012(029578)

BeingFrank

sports

Great Bale of fire

With Frankie D’Cruz

Chinatown’s crumbling heritage It’s heart-wrenching when only certain shophouses are preserved while hideous renovations have sucked the creative significance out of others

>> pg6

local

AirAsia pays up Budget carrier settles dues with MAHB

>> pg5

Tottenham hotshot Gareth Bale promises to unleash fury on Manchester United’s nervous goalkeeper David De Gea tomorrow

FREE

100,000 copies daily

The Malay Mail

@malaymail

40 sen for delivery per copy

kuala lumpur

The friend did it!

Twist in Mohd Rafie’s acid-splashing case as cops arrest buddy who drove victim to hospital, made police report

We don’t need this eyesore

Raya gaiety

Selayang folk want authorities to remove abandoned car

>> pg9 world

Tripoli falls to rebels

Two sons captured, Gaddafi makes last stand >> pg12 For updates visit www.mmail.com.my

>> pg30

http://www.mmail.com.my

IT was a proud and happy day for five-year-old Syed Muhd Danish as he was among 400 special children taken on a Raya shopping spree yesterday. The little boy is seen here testing out a new pair of shoes — Pic: Samsul Said

By G. PRAKASH prakash@mmail.com.my

SHOCK lashed acid attack victim Mohd Rafie Abd Latif ’s (pic) family yesterday when it emerged his close friend who was in the car prior to the Aug 8 incident at Jalan Raja Laut, is the main suspect.

The victim’s brother, Army Mejar Mohd Jeffry Abd Latiff, 36, was in a state of disbelief when The Malay Mail broke the news of the arrest to him.

Said a stunned Mohd Jeffry: “I can’t believe this. How can we tell Rafie that his friend is being held by the police in connection with the attack?

“I don’t know how Rafie is going to take this. I know they have been friends for more than two years and I know he often goes out with him.

“I had thought all this while he was the friend who had helped my brother to the hospital.

“He was even the one who lodged the police report on the incident.”

The twist to the heinous attack that left Mohd Rafie, 26, severely injured on his face, left eye and right hand, followed city police disclosure that the suspect, aged 23, was now in police custody following contradictions to his statement with other witnesses.

>> Full story on pg4

• Continued on pg2

PUTRAJAYA

Road tax, licence renewal via RTD kiosks next year

TO make it easier for motorists to renew their road tax and driving licences, the Road Transport Department (RTD) will be setting up kiosks at strategic places throughout the country from next year.

RTD deputy director-general Datuk Ismail Ahmad told The Malay Mail the user-friendly kiosks would first be installed in the Klang Valley in the third quarter of 2012.

“From then onwards, we would gradually spread to the whole coun-

By ASRUL HADI ABDULLAH SANI asrul@mmail.com.my try,” he said, adding that the places chosen would be those frequented by many people, such as shopping malls, commercial centres and even near bank ATM machines.

“The kiosks would function very much like ATM machines and this is aimed at making it more convenient for motorists who currently have to

do it at post offices and RTD offices.”

Ismail said the kiosk move is part of RTD’s revamp to allow different government agencies access to its integrated database.

Earlier this year, The Malay Mail reported that all government agencies dealing with private and commercial vehicles as well as drivers’ conduct will have access to information via a central database under the RTD. The information, stored at the RTD Data Centre’s mainframe in Cyber-

jaya, will be available in real-time.

The 110,000 sq ft (10,220 sq metres) RTD Data Centre was completed in the middle of last year at a cost of RM49.5 million as a separate facility from the department’s headquarters in Putrajaya. This data centre in Cyberjaya has active records of 19 million vehicles and 12 million driving licence holders.

“Our integrated database is slated to begin also in the third quarter of 2012, as right now the database is about 40

per cent complete,” said Ismail.

“Once this is ready, every government agency can have access to our database when they upgrade their systems.”

Ismail said government agencies to be accorded access to the RTD database are the police, Immigration Department, Inland Revenue Board, Department of Environment (DOE), Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD).

2

news

Indonesia's Kompas newspaper apologises to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and his family for its defamatory news report published on Aug 4 -- Bernama SUNGAI BULOH

Cops beat robbers to it

News Alert CELCOM subscribers! Be the first to get The Malay Mail's news updates via SMS! You will get a minimum of five SMSes daily by following these simple steps: Weekly subscription: Type ON<space>MMAILW and send to 23999 Monthly subscription: Type ON<space>MMAIL and send to 23999 ● Weekly: RM1.50, Monthly: RM5.00

Weather Update PLANNING a day out? Don't get caught out.

Keeping up-to-date with the latest weather conditions is vital.

Subscribe to receive the daily weather forecast for Klang Valley areas direct to your mobile phone via SMS! All you need to do is just type: ON<space>MM<space>WEATHER and send to 33333 Sample: ON MM WEATHER ● RM0.50/SMS. Normal telco charges apply.

Buka Puasa/Imsak Times IMSAK Ramadan 22, MAGHRIB 1432H (TODAY) (TOMORROW)

WILAYAH PERSEKUTUAN Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya

7.25pm

5.43am

SELANGOR Zone I: Daerah Gombak, Petaling Jaya/ Shah Alam, Hulu Selangor, Hulu Langat and Sepang Zone II: Daerah Klang, Kuala Langat, Kuala Selangor, and Sabak Bernam

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

7.25pm

5.43am

7.27pm

5.45am

Officers were already inside cybercafe when thieves attacked

HE had wondered why someone was setting off firecrackers so early in the morning.

However, he soon realised it was an exchange of gunfire between cops and robbers, which left one robber dead and his accomplice injured.

A coffee shop operator, who only wanted to be known as Uncle Lee, 56, was in the midst of opening his shop in Jalan Besar, Kampung Baru Sungai Buloh, at 6.45am yesterday when he heard popping sounds from a cybercafe across the road.

“At first, I wondered why anyone would be playing firecrackers so early in the morning but then I realised it was gunshots from within the

By AIZAT SHARIF mmnews@mmail.com.my

cybercafe,” said Lee. Selangor police chief DCP Datuk Tun Hisan Tun Hamzah said two men attempted to rob the cybercafe, not realising police were conducting a raid in the premises at the time.

“The suspects knocked on the cybercafe's back door and the outlet's owner thought they were regular customers and let them in," he said.

The suspects, armed with a Glock pistol and a sickle, stormed the cashier at the counter and demanded money.

“Only then did the suspects realise there were two police

officers inside. The suspects were ordered to surrender but both refused,” said Tun Hisan.

"One suspect fired several shots at our officers, who then returned fire, killing one robber and injuring his accomplice."

The injured accomplice escaped via the back entrance and fled in a black Naza Citra but police tracked him down to Damansara Damai 30 minutes after the shootout.

"We believe the two robbers had another accomplice waiting in the car and we are searching for the third suspect and the getaway car. The injured suspect, in his 30s, was a member of a security

Motive for 'friendly-fire' attack unknown ● From pg1 There is also doubt whether Mohd Rafie’s car driven by the suspect had grazed another car along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman where they had gone for Hari Raya shopping.

The suspect had claimed the mishap had triggered the acid attack near a public toilet beside Wisma Bumi, Jalan Raja Laut, at 1.30am.

City deputy CID chief ACP Khairy Arasa said: “Our investigations and the police report lodged by the suspect do not tally.

“We have remanded him for four days to facilitate investigation.”

Police now believe the suspect had sneaked behind Mohd Rafie and splashed him with acid.

It is believed he had then driven the victim to the hospital and concocted a story to the police.

"The suspect told us he was inside the restroom when the incident happened. He said he only heard Mohd Rafie's scream and saw him lying in

MOHD JEFFRY: Wants swift end to the case

pain before rushing him to the hospital," said Khairy.

“We checked the vehicle but did not find evidence that the car had grazed another vehicle.”

He said the suspect was arrested on Saturday after he was summoned to have his statement re-recorded.

The motive for the attack is not known, said Khairy.

Khairy also said this development puts paid to initial fears that the serial acid splasher-robber involved in two cases in Sungai Besi on July 26 and last Tuesday in

THE MALAY MAIL IS PUBLISHED BY Malay Mail Sdn Bhd, Lot 2A, Jalan 13/2, 46200, Petaling Jaya

Cheras was involved in the attack on Mohd Rafie.

He said the composite image of the suspect released by police to the media last week did not apply in Mohd Rafie’s case.

Mohd Jeffry said the first time he met the suspect, a technician with an automotive firm, was at the hospital on the day of the incident.

“He was busy talking to the police and telling them what had happened."

The suspect had told police the incident took place at Jalan Raja Laut, when he was driving the Proton Gen 2 belonging to Mohd Rafie.

He said he had stopped at a public toilet beside Wisma Bumi to go to the restroom while Mohd Rafie was waiting in the car.

He claimed he did not see his friend get splashed on the face with corrosive liquid and only ran to his aid on hearing him scream for help.

“My brother was caught by surprise and did not see his assailant,” Mohd Jeffry added.

“I had asked Rafie several

EDITORIAL Tel : 03-74951288 Fax : 03-74951229 Email : mmnews@mmail.com.my

ADVERTISING SALES

force, while the robber shot dead was in his 20s," said Tun Hisan, who declined to name the security force.

Police seized 20 computers at the cybercafe. Over the past few years, the cybercafe had been raided at least five times

for conducting illegal online gambling.

The injured suspect was t a ke n to Su ng ai Bu l oh Hospital for treatment. The hospital will also carry out a post-mortem on the dead robber.

PETALING JAYA

times if he had seen the suspect. He only said he felt a burning sensation on his face and body."

The army officer said he didn't know how close the friendship was.

"We (the family) have also not been following police investigations as we have been busy taking turns to care for him in the hospital."

Mohd Jeffry said he wants nothing more than a swift end to the case and for the culprit to be punished.

"This is not a small matter.

What this person has done is cruel and he has ruined my brother's life. It will be some time before Mohd Rafie can recover and move on."

Mohd Jeffry said his brother’s condition was slowly improving and that some parts of the skin on his face seemed to have healed slightly.

"The doctors said this was a good sign as his skin is improving faster than they had expected. They still need to monitor his condition before deciding if he needs more surgery," he said.

Tel : 03-74951273 (Classifieds) / 03-74951262 (Display) Fax : 03-74951228 Email : ad@mmail.com.my

DEAD: Cops remove the body of the robber after the shootout yesterday — Pic: SHARUL HAFIZ ZAM

Manhunt for 'other' acid splasher still on THE manhunt for another acid splasher believed to be involved in two cases — one in Sungai Besi on July 26, and another last Tuesday at the Batu 9 toll plaza in Cheras — is still underway.

The suspect is believed to be the same person in both cases.

City deputy CID Chief ACP Khairy Arasa said police are trying to locate the suspect and requested the media release the photofit of the suspect again.

"We are confident the culprit will be caught soon."

Khairy said the two cases are the only ones believed to be related and that Mohd Rafie Abd Latif 's case is a separate incident altogether.

Last Tuesday morning, Winson Ng, a 24-year-old Internet marketing operator, was splashed with corrosive liquid and robbed while

changing a flat tyre at the Batu 9 toll plaza in Cheras.

He confirmed the photo-fit released by the police was the suspect who splashed acid on him.

In the other incident, the 35-year-old victim had just cashed out a company cheque and was on his way to his office.

The victim stopped at a petrol station in Jalan Sungai Besi.

He went to the restroom where the suspect trailed him and splashed corrosive liquid before taking RM18,000.

In both cases, the suspect had used a black Proton Wira with the vehicle registration number WLC 1475.

Police checks on the vehicle registration number revealed it was fake.

A task force was formed comprising officers from the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor police headquarters.

TO CONTACT US: Newsdesk : 03-74951015 & 03-74951017 CLASSIFIEDS : 03-74951273/03-74951282 General line : 03-74951288 CIRCULATION : 03-74951068 Fax : 03-74951226

news

For now, we will field candidates in Selangor and Kelantan in the next General Election -- Kita president Datuk Zaid Ibrahim

The Malay Mail Monday 22 August, 2011

AMPANG: TAMAN KOSAS MURDERS

Suspects to be re-arrested for Immigration offences POLICE are re-arresting the 11 suspects in the Taman Kosas double murders when their remand order ends today.

Selangor CID chief SAC Mohd Adnan Abdullah said the suspects — 10 Bangladeshis and an Indonesian detained from Aug 6 to 15 — will be re-arrested for Immigration offences.

“They will be investigated under the Immigration Act as all of them do not possess valid travel or personal documents,” Mohd Adnan told

By AIZAT SHARIF aizat@mmail.com.my

The Malay Mail.

"We completed the investigations into the murders and are now waiting for instructions from the deputy public prosecutor."

On Aug 3, acting on a tip-off by residents who complained about a stench, police found the dismembered body of an Indonesian woman and the intact remains of a toddler,

believed to be her son, stuffed in five plastic bags at an abandoned unit on the fifth floor of the Chryssa Block, Astaria Apartments in Taman Kosas.

Mohd Adnan clarified the suspect claiming to be the husband of the murdered woman is an Indonesian and not a Philippines-born Sabahan as reported.

“From our investigation, the

man was never born in the Philippines or stayed in Sabah.

He's an Indonesian national and we are checking his background with the Indonesian embassy.”

Although the Indonesian embassy confirmed the identity of the woman as Suramlah Nidin, 35, from Bondowoso, East Java, police have yet to confirm the murdered woman was Suramlah.

“We are following procedures and will not confirm the identi-

ty of the victim until her family members come here to confirm it,” said Mohd Adnan.

Based on the high state of decomposition, police believe the bodies had been in the apartment for about a week.

The Indonesian suspect was initially arrested on Aug 7. He claimed the victim was his wife, Suramlah, although he did not lodge a missing persons report.

He was released after his statement was recorded and re-arrested on Aug 15.

CHERAS

At the edge of a sword Long ordeal for woman and mother in hostage drama

IT was an over eight-hour ordeal for a woman and her mother as they "took turns" to become hostages to a swordwielding abductor who was a family friend, before he finally surrendered to the police.

The incident yesterday began when a 24-year-old woman was abducted from her home in Gombak at 2am by a 32-year-old money-lender who forced his way into the victim's car. He pointed a samurai sword to her neck and forced her to drive to his house in Taman Alam Damai, Bukit Cheras.

The woman was then locked up in the suspect's doublestorey house for almost three hours, until her mother got wind of her whereabouts from a relative whom the victim had managed to alert during her abduction.

The victim's mother, a 43-year-old businesswoman, contacted Gombak police at about 5am and within an hour, police traced her daughter's car to the suspect's house.

There, in the presence of the police, the mother bravely negotiated with the suspect, whom she later described as a family friend, and offered herself as hostage in exchange for her daughter.

The suspect relented and released the daughter at about

By G. Prakash prakash@mmail.com.my

7am after taking the mother as hostage. Police then patiently negotiated with the suspect who eventually gave himself up at 10.30am. Happily, both the woman and her mother were unhurt.

Police are investigating the motive and have ruled out ransom as they believe the reason could be love-related.

Cheras police chief, ACP Mohan Singh, who played a crucial role in the negotiations, said the mother's quick action in making a police report was vital.

"As soon as she lodged a report, our officers almost immediately spotted her daughter's BMW car in Cheras," he said, adding that before police arrived at the suspect's house at about 6am, he had called two friends over and they only realised he had kidnapped someone upon their arrival.

"The suspect's two friends came in a Honda Accord and were forced to help the kidnapper who had threatened to hurt the victim. Upon realising the police were there, the suspect brought the victim out and forced her into the front passenger seat of her BMW. He then told one of his two friends, a 21-year-old man, to

get into the driver's seat."

Police vehicles sent earlier from the Gombak and Cheras police stations, then blocked the BMW on both sides to stop the car from being driven off.

"The suspect, who was in the back seat, kept placing the sword on the victim’s neck," said Mohan, adding that upon seeing this, the victim's mother bravely negotiated with the suspect and managed to convince him to take her as hostage in exchange for her daughter.

"When the suspect finally agreed to surrender, our men quickly apprehended him from behind in case he changed his mind. During the arrest, the suspect, who was still holding the sword, injured himself slightly on his neck."

Mohan said they are checking whether the suspect was a licensed money-lender or an illegal loan shark.

"So far, we have found he had one previous criminal record."

He said the suspect's two friends were released after their statements were recorded.

At the suspect's house, police seized three machetes, a folding knife and a fake pump-

SUCCESSFUL OUTCOME: Mohan showing the weapons seized from the suspect's house — Pic: Ashraf Shamsul Azlan

action shotgun. The suspect was taken to Hospital Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (HUKM) for treatment of his neck wound.

Police are investigating the case under three sections of the Penal Code — 363 for kidnapping, 307 for attempted murder, and 342 for wrongful detention — and also Section 6 (1) of the Corrosive, Explosive Substances and Offensive Weapons Act 1958.

The two women were taken

to Alam Damai police station to record their statements.

When approached by The Malay Mail, the mother, who declined to be named, said: "The suspect is a family friend.

I contacted the Gombak police at about 5am as soon as I learnt of my daughter's whereabouts from a relative whom my daughter managed to alert during her abduction."

It is learnt the daughter assists her mother's business operations.

Police chief takes three minutes to get abductor to give up CHERAS police chief, ACP Mohan Singh arrived at the scene yesterday at about 10am, and after being briefed by his officers on what transpired over the past four hours, he decided to negotiate with the abductor himself.

As it turned out, Mohan only needed three minutes to persuade the suspect to give himself up.

"I managed to calm him down and when he finally agreed to surrender, I signaled my men to quickly

apprehend him as hostagetakers have been known to change their mind.

"Not unexpectedly, the suspect resisted being handcuffed although he agreed to give up and that's when he accidentally slightly in-

jured himself on the neck with the sword he was holding."

Mohan said he has dealt with these tense situations before.

"In such cases, our main focus is on the safety of the

victims and we are glad the victim's mother and the suspect's innocent friend were not hurt," he said, adding that this particular incident was satisfactorily resolved through the team-work of the Gombak and Cheras police.

3

Najib calls to abolish one toll on Silk Highway PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Najib Razak has asked the Works Ministry to study the possibility of abolishing one of the two toll booths on the CherasKajang Highway (Silk). He said he understood the issue had, for a long time, been a woe for residents living around the area.

The study, he said, once completed should be brought up to the Cabinet for a decision. "We want to do whatever possible to lighten the people's burden," he told the crowd at a break fast function with Selangor residents at Dataran Usahawan, Batu 14, Hulu Langat, yesterday.

Body of man found in ditch PASSERS-BY stumbled on the body of a man in a drain at Padang Merdeka mini stadium, Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan, yesterday.

District police chief Supt Baljit Singh said the victim was identified as Nor Azlan Mohd Nor, 29, from Perak, who was banished under the Restricted Residence Act. He said the body, with head injuries, was found by passers-by at about 12.05am. Police believe the victim was involved in a fight and the body was dumped in the drain. A suspect has been detained.

Man killed when car plunges into drain A MAN was killed when his car skidded and plunged into a swollen monsoon drain in Jalan Medan Ipoh, Perak, yesterday.

Lim Cheng Woei, 27, who sustained head injuries, died on the spot in the 8am accident. A team from the State fire and rescue department extricated the body from the car. The body was sent to the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital. City traffic police chief Deputy Superintendent Mohd Rodzi Rejab said Lim was negotiating a U-turn when the mishap occurred.

4

news

Major drop in HFMD cases this year CASES of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) saw a drop of 66.7 per cent this year. Health Ministry director-general Datuk Dr Hasan Abdul Rahman said 2,919 cases with no deaths reported throughout the country this year compared with 8,769 cases last year.

Most cases were recorded in five States — Sarawak (914 cases), Selangor (513), Johor (300), Perlis (300) and Pulau Pinang (263). He said the National Public Health Laboratory surveillance found Coxsackie A16 and Enterovirus 71 (EV 71) were the most common strains causing HFMD. The virus is spread through direct contact with mucus, saliva, or faeces of an infected person. The incubation period is between three to five days.

It usually attacks infants and children under 10.

Popular novelist Azizi Abdullah dies PROMINENT novelist Azizi Abdullah (pic), who was best known for his novel: Seorang Tua di Kaki Gunung died at the Penang Hospital yesterday morning.

He was 69. Azizi was warded since March and underwent heart surgery in April. His condition become unstable and was moved to the Intensive Care Unit on Aug 11. Azizi was buried at the Jamiul Makmur Mosque Muslim Cemetary in Kulim after Zohor prayers.

Among those who paid their respects was national laureate Datuk Shahnon Ahmad, who said he had lost a close friend.

Azizi, who won the SEA Write Award in 1998, is survived by his wife and two daughters Anita, 40, and Azimah, 21. His latest novels, Anak Belantera and Badai Cinta, hit the shelves several months ago.

Taman Botani Perdana closed for Aidilfitri CITY HALL will shut down operations at the Orchid Garden, Hubiscus Garden, Taman Kancil/ Rusa and Herbal Garden at the Lake Gardens on Aug 30 and 31 in conjunction with Aidilfitri celebrations. In addition, horse riding activities at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa will also be closed to the public from Saturday to Sept 4.

Performance Management and Delivery Unit to assist those earning below RM3,000 facing problems of rising prices of goods and services — Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah

The Malay Mail Monday 22 August, 2011

KUALA LUMPUR

You're free to sue

Jalan Sultan property owners can take legal action over compensation

By ANDREW SAGAYAM andrew@mmail.com.my

PROPERTY and land owners in Jalan Sultan here can take take legal action if they are unhappy with the compensation offered by the government or developers of the My Rapid Transit (MRT) project.

"Although the government is concerned with preserving historical buildings, development is inevitable. However, if the Jalan Sultan property owners are not satisfied with compensation in the compulsory takeover of their land, they have the right to take the matter to the courts," said Federal Territories and Urban Well-being Minister Datuk Raja Nong Chik Raja Zainal Abidin, adding the project was handled by Syarikat Prasarana Negara Berhad (Prasarana) and the ministry was only overlooking the progress.

He said those affected could raise relevant issues about compensation, including loss of business. These would be taken into consideration when compensation was determined.

"Land owners could also negotiate with the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) as some routes could be realigned without affecting property value," said Raja Nong Chik yesterday, when attending a Shopping for Raya event for 400 orphans, underprivileged and disabled children at Tesco Scott Garden in Jalan Klang Lama.

A total of 30 lots comprising 20 buildings and 10 empty pieces of land will have to make way for the underground MRT tunel-

ling works in Jalan Sultan.

The buildings include hotels, shops, supermarket and restaurants as well as the Klang bus station.

Raja Nong Chik said Shopping for Raya is among the corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes under the ministry.

"We want to help the needy prepare for Raya. As the current economic situation is not good, we want to lighten their burden. It is our way of saying the government has never forgotten them or their welfare."

The 400 children each received RM150 to buy Raya clothes, comprising RM100 from the ministry and RM50 sponsored by Tesco Stores.

On Aug 11, Prasarana organised a briefing session to inform property and land owners in Jalan Sultan that part of the underground section, which includes a station of the MRT alignment, will be along the road.

As such, land above the underground tunnel works, will have to be acquired according to current legal considerations.

During the briefing session, affected owners said they were concerned their heritage land, in existence for over 100 years, had to be demolished to make way for the MRT project.

On Aug 16, MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said a meeting will be held between Jalan Sultan property owners with SPAD sometime this week. ● See also pg6

GREEN FOR RAYA: Little Maisara gets a helping hand with her new outfit from Raja Nong Chik (right). Looking on is her mother Norlela Jacob (left) — Pic: Samsul Said

Legal recourse for property owners THE acquisition of property and land at Jalan Sultan here to make way for the MRT project will take from four to six months to complete.

A property owner not satisfied with the quantum

of compensation awarded can file an appeal within six weeks of the awarding.

When an award is confirmed, a notice will be sent to the Prime Minister's Department for release of com-

pensation which will have to be paid to the affected land owner within three months.

Once compensation is paid, the authorities will then proceed to take formal possession of the land.

PETALING JAYA

Ban on shooting of stray dogs never changed THE ban on shooting of stray dogs is nothing new and infact, it had always been in place.

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Chor Chee Heung said the ban always in force requiring municipal councils to follow guidelines on catching and exterminating stray dogs.

"Have there been cases of stray dogs or even cats being ill-treated or shot to death

of late? I believe no. The last incident was in Batu Pahat.

We have written to municipal councils to remind them to follow Ministry guidelines when it comes to the handling stray dogs," he said.

"This includes how to catch strays using nets, tranquilisers, loops and strainers."

Chor also said the same guidelines are practised by the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS).

He said according to guidelines, strays must be transported to a nearby pound where they would be kept for seven days and if an animal was unclaimed within that period, it would be euthanised.

"We urge dog owners to have their pets spayed to prevent over-breeding."

"We are also looking into amending certain by-laws under the Local Government Act 1972 for the licencing of dogs

and establishment of kennels."

In early May, a video on YouTube showed five local council officers aggressively using snares to overpower a dog before allegedly killing it in a residential area in Batu Pahat, Johor. The dog was yelping incessantly and tried hard to escape but the officers pinned it down and administered an injection that rendered it motionless. It's stiff remains were then dragged

around by an officer.

The almost five-minute video sparked anger among the public. It also prompted the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) Selangor and other nongovernmental organisations (NGOs) to meet with Chor at his office on June 20 to voice their grievances as over the years there have been recurring incidences of cruelty to stray dogs by local councils.

The best bet for Malaysia to reduce greenhouse gas emission lies in the use of solar and biomass — Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Seri Dr Maximus Ongkili

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

PETALING JAYA: THE MALAYSIAN RESERVE EXCLUSIVE

AirAsia settles dues MAHB says budget airline has settled all outstanding payments

AIRASIA BHD has settled its outstanding airport charges to Malaysian Airport Holdings Bhd (MAHB), a matter that was raised by certain quarters when the low-cost carrier entered into a share swap with national airline Malaysian Airline System Bhd (MAS).

MAHB chief financial officer Faizal Mansor said AirAsia "no longer" owes it money.

"AirAsia is a good paymaster," he told The Malaysian Reserve, when contacted last Friday.

There were claims the lowcost carrier operator had owed the airport operator previous dues. In 2008, the then

By ANUJA RAVENDRAN mmnews@mmail.com.my

Transport Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat told parliament that AirAsia owed MAHB RM110.4 million since 2002 until March 31, 2008.

In January this year, a Singapore newspaper, citing airline executives, said MAHB insisted AirAsia owes it RM103 million.

On Aug 9, MAS and AirAsia put an end to their rivalry with the conclusion of a share swap deal and the signing of a comprehensive collaboration framework (CCF) which would see both airlines work-

PETALING JAYA

No need for 'security' fee

By ASRUL HADI ABDULLAH SANI asrul@mmail.com.my

INTERNATIONAL passengers flying from Malaysia to countries with the Advance Pa s s e n g e r I n f o r m a t i o n System (APIS) should not be made to pay the RM35 “security” fee.

In a statement to The Malay Mail, International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Asia Pacific corporate communications assistant director Albert Tjoeng said the APIS programme is intended to strengthen national security and is the responsibility of the State.

"APIS is a national and not commercial goal and accordingly, the cost of implementation should be financed by the State," he said.

Tjoeng also clarified that IATA has never pressured the Malaysian government to implement APIS at the country's airports.

"IATA does not promote the implementation of APIS to screen travellers. However, where States decide to implement APIS at its airports, it should be based on internat i ona l st and ards and guidelines published by the World Customs Organisation and the International Civil Aviation Organisation, both of which are supported by IATA." In our front-page report last Monday, it was revealed

that international travellers departing Malaysia may have to pay RM35 more for security on top of the RM14 hike in airport tax.

Sources had told The Paper That Cares that this fee may be imposed to cover costs of maintenance and new equipment if APIS is implemented.

Designed in the United States, APIS is an electronic data interchange system that captures a passenger's details, including full name, gender, birthdate, nationality, country of residence, travel document type and reference number and final destination.

The system is used to vet high-risk passengers, such as su sp e c te d terrorists, and data gathered can be used to stop passengers from boarding an aircraft.

The US h a d i n it i ated the system after the Sept 11, 2001 terrorist att a ck s on New York City and Washington D.C.

ing towards a common goal of turning Malaysia into an international aviation powerhouse.

Under the share swap deal, Tune Air Sdn Bhd, the major shareholder of AirAsia, would hold 20.5 per cent of MAS shares while Khazanah Nasional Bhd, in turn, would own 10 per cent shares in AirAsia. Both stakes are worth about US$360 million (RM1.8 billion), based on Bloomberg data.

Some quarters had questioned if the deal would in fact benefit AirAsia more than it would benefit MAS, with some raising yet again,

the issue of payments the company owed MAHB and what would become of it.

MAHB had just announced that aircraft landing and parking charges would be increased by 9 per cent and 18 per cent respectively per annum until January 2014, while parking charges for the first three hours remain free.

The news were "negatives" for airlines, especially for AirAsia and MAS, as both expected to face direct impact from higher aircraft parking and landing charges, according to reports from Hong Leong Investment B a n k ( H L I B ) R e s e a rc h

released on Aug 8.

For both carriers, HLIB said the new charges are estimated to incur an incremental RM9 million per year for the next three years but it is likely both airlines will pass on the additional cost to their customers.

MAHB's new airport charges were approved by the government, in line with the operating agreement terms signed in February 2009.

Narrowing down, the additional cost for AirAsia's passengers is estimated at only 45 sen per person and MAS at 64 sen per person, the report said.

PETALING JAYA

'Grant A Wish' to benefit a thousand needy children

LOCAL non-profit organisation Rainbow of Life Forces (ROLF) will be conducting its third Gold Ribbon Campaign — the "Grant A Wish" programme over the next three months to benefit at least a thousand needy children.

"We hope to grant a thousand wishes this year and will publish the wish list of

By FAIZAL NOR IZHAM faizal.nor@mmail.com.my

needy children on our website on Sept 19," said Adelyn Lim (pic), managing director of the CreatiVision Group of Companies, which initiated ROLF as their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme in 2007.

"There are three types of children — the underprivileged, the disabled and those in need of medical treatment or surgery. Members of the public can choose to fulfill a specific wish by filling in and submitting a form. This will be followed by wishgranting ceremonies every Saturday and Sunday throughout November."

Items wished for could be beds and mattresses, books and stationary, cookware, clothing and footwear, electrical appliances, food, medical or healthcare products, personal accessories, toiletries, toys, games and musical instruments, and these items could either be specially bought or donated.

"We also want the children to receive the gifts personally from the donors," said Lim, adding that for children who require medical treatment or surgery,

donations can be offered to fund their needs.

"In our first wish-matching campaign in 2009, we helped fulfill the wishes of 400 children from eight orphanages.

Last year, it was 1,100 children from 13 homes and each year, this campaign is timed in conjunction with Universal Children's Day on Nov 20."

ROLF has seven types of campaigns, named after colours of the rainbow. The other six are Blue Ribbon (childhood cancers), Orange (youth social responsibility), Green (environmental education, tobacco and drugs free), Yellow (psychological and health needs), Red (heart diseases), and Purple (child abuse, neglect and sex exploitation).

Aimed at giving hope to all children regardless of race, religion or background, ROLF concentrates mainly on lesserknown orphanages in the Klang Valley by collecting donations as well as organising special events for them.

In May this year, the Green Ribbon campaign was held in conjunction with World 'No Tobacco' Day, and 40 children from four children's homes were taken on a twoday camping trip to Penang Hill where they were taught outdoor survival skills and basic first aid.

To know more about ROLF, visit their website at www. rolfcommunity.org or www. facebook.com/rolfcommunity.

news

5

PETALING JAYA

TNB bills backdated three months only

IN the wake of public furore over the exorbitant amounts charged through the backdating of bills, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) has agreed to backdate bills up to three months only and not one year as previously intended.

T h i s fo l l ow s a m e e t ing between the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) and TNB last Friday where the latter's new practice of backdating charges have resulted in electricity bills shooting up to RM20,000.

TNB had claimed the consumers slapped with charges of up to RM20,000 were involved in meter tampering and electricity theft.

Fomca chief executive officer Datuk Paul Selva Raj (pic) said: "TNB will only backdate charges up to three months from when the meters were changed.

"It was also more than willing to show us evidence that certain industrial and commercial users were guilty of abusing the system. Where there have been cases of meter tampering, TNB should be supported as electricity theft also affects other consumers."

Fomca had also found businesses and industrial owners "shunting" their meters to reduce the reading. Some were crude while others were sophisticated whereby the meter would be bypassed altogether.

"Concerning TNB's practice of determining backdated payments based on estimation of previous electricity usage, it is fair for TNB to take an average of the past six months and use that as a basis. There is no issue of TNB trying to profit from this as they need some of kind of basis to measure.”

He also said consumers disputing the backdated charges should raise the matter with TNB and negotiate.

"TNB is willing to conduct a case-by-case review. Fomca also plans to meet with the Energy Commission of Malaysia to discuss the possibility of setting up of an independent body to settle outstanding disputes."

6

I find the Kedai 1Malaysia retail concept to be immensely beneficial to the people as the prices are far lower than at normal retail outlets — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

KUALA LUMPUR

Soulless Chinese enclave vents anger

SURELY, no other area in the federal capital as Jalan Petaling and Jalan Sultan can lay claim to so much romance, awe and creativity amid negligence by its custodians.

For years, both the areas were the byword for precious heritage, material evidence of a community’s history, craftsmanship and vibrant culture.

Then in the late 1990s, the forefathers’ concept of communities striving to maintain and celebrate their individuality and diversity began to collapse.

The very imposing places that formed a world famous tourist destination and spelt the character of old Kuala Lumpur had become fragile.

They were disregarded by their custodians — authorities and some owners of the two-storey pre-war shophouses there.

I am inclined to suggest that while Kuala Lumpur is a vast metropolis, City Hall seems to be archaic in its outlook towards heritage building conservation.

It’s heart-wrenching when you see only certain shophouses in areas such as Jalan Petaling-Jalan Sultan, Changkat Bukit Bintang and Chow Kit preserved, while hideous renovations have sucked the creative significance out of others.

At Changkat Bukit Bintang, the philosophy of adaptive reuse of old buildings seems centred on turning them into clubs.

Frankly, this entertainment concept is tiring and while good for business, it says nothing for preservation of buildings.

Revitalising heritage buildings is not confined to enlivening its physical form.

It has to be a renewal of both residential and retail use through proper conduct that enhances urban quality.

Chinatown, Jalan Petaling, lacks greatly in this context.

There are so many things working against this enclave, listed as a heritage zone in the Kuala Lumpur Structure Plan 2020 — though yet to be gazetted as one.

Dutch journalist Adrian Salzburg, who accompanied me on a visit to Chinatown on Saturday, put one example there in a capsule: “The shophouses are dead. They need to be resurrected.”

He’s right. A basic in promoting aesthetic values is being

ignored: a number of stalls, run by a motley bunch of foreigners — who give a negative un-Malaysian perspective of the area — block the view of artistic shophouses that by themselves could be a major attraction.

That this oversight occurs in Chinatown, seen as a major player in tourism, is demoralising because the emblematic structures that gave birth to the city’s urban culture are the old shophouses such as those along Jalan Petaling and Jalan Sultan.

History has it that there were 518 shophouses in Kuala Lumpur in 1887. The brick buildings, covered with red clay roof, gave a muchneeded facelift to what was previously a "mud" town.

The distinctive two-storey shophouse, with the g round f lo or for trading and the first floor for residential use, was an architectural gem unique to major towns here and in Singapore.

While Singapore took steps to conserve this legacy by encouraging citizens to make full use of heritage buildings and to ensure the original elements were conspicuous, the current state of affairs at Jalan Petaling-Jalan Sultan bewails our efforts.

Consider this: the motivating architecture of certain two-storey shophouses has been negligently blurred by pretentious signage and unkempt walls.

The historic frontage is a free-for-all with poorly thought out metal frames and fixtures sticking out horrendously.

These buildings are in a gloomy and decrepit state as a result of neglect, insensitivity and thoughtlessness.

The owners are at fault for bringing about destructive ramifications on urban heritage and I am constantly told the Rent Control Act that came into force in 1948 and abolished in 1997 was a major contributing factor for this state of affairs.

As expected, when a rental ceiling was fixed, shop owners did not bother about the wear and tear to their properties.

As expected, when the Act was rescinded, no one it seemed wished to restore the charm of

BeingFrank With Frankie D’Cruz

ON MONDAY

LEGACY: Heritage buildings in Jalan Petaling and Jalan Sultan

these old buildings because of the costs involved.

As expected, the authorities did little or nothing to get the owners to recondition the buildings.

And while the local authority might defend itself with claims of political interference, I believe allowing the condition of these buildings to deteriorate over the years was a crime against heritage.

So, I can only deduce the issue involving the government’s move to acquire 34 such buildings along Jalan Petaling and Jalan Sultan to make way for the My Rapid Transit project is a matter of sentimentality versus progress.

To me, these errant owners

and the authorities crafted the obituary of both places even before the partial destruction of the areas gets underway for the MRT, the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken in Malaysia.

Arguments against acquisition of land in the Jalan Petaling-Jalan Sultan areas raises concerns that the capital city would lose not only the heritage buildings, but the legacy behind it.

If our cultural heritage is what makes us special and gives us a local distinctiveness, why were buildings left in a state of neglect and showed little or absolutely nothing of the cultural and social significance of the place? ***************************

Gay pastor’s KL wedding distaste

THE haughty man of God, Ou Yang Wen Feng, 41, Malaysia’s openly homosexual Christian pastor, wants homosexuals in Malaysia to “keep coming out” to help battle homophobia as he gets set to marry his African-American partner.

Such arrant drivel smacks of menacing attempts to pit human rights against the family and against man.

The monotony and the plethora of his sinister "sermons" in media inter views and to his gay congregants, supporting same-sex marriage, have been relentless.

His latest call on gay Malaysians to show their "true faces and tell them who we are" is distasteful for a leader of a Christian congregation.

The Bible prohibits sexual relationship between people of the same sex. A person who condones same-sex marriages is clearly in violation of Christian principles.

Isn’t this deviant sexual behaviour?

Imposing one’s sexual orientation on a conservative Malaysian society is a hot button topic.

Homosexuality remains taboo across racial and religious spectrums and sodomy is a crime punishable to 20 years in jail under Malaysian laws.

The sensitivity of the people in Malaysia where same-sex marriage is not allowed and prohibited by religion would be insulted by Ou Yang and his partner celebrating their nuptials here.

"I am not promoting gay culture. I am promoting honesty, love and justice," Ou Yang said, in response to religious leaders' claims that his activities would encourage homosexuality.

Bitter laughter is my main response to his comments unless he is saying churches had never embraced all kinds of people, including bisexual, transsexual and heterosexual people.

Marriage is a religious sacrament and children thrive best when raised in a home with a married mother and father.

Boys and girls have needs that

are uniquely met by parents of the opposite gender.

I am okay with my gay friends.

But I am not okay with gays like Ou Yang who "preach" the word of the Lord but practise deviant sexual behaviour.

***************************

Harsh on Tamils?

WHEN the US embassy expressed deep regret over an alleged recent racial comment made by the Vice-Consul of the US Consulate in Chennai, Maureen Chao, as saying that her "skin had become dirty and dark, like the Tamilians", a Tamil society in Selangor urged me to comment on her derisory remark.

The society said I had to make my stand, despite being a Malayalee, because I had been awarded recognition last November by a Tamil literary body for speaking up on Indian affairs, especially my series of talks — ”It’s tough being Indian - and gifted”.

The calls have been incessant and after much thought here’s my take about what Chao said when addressing a group of students at the Semester Abroad Programme orientation in SRM University, Chennai.

It might be remotely possible that Chao’s comments were misinterpreted when she, going down the memory lane two decades ago when she was a student, said: "I was on a 24-hour train trip from Delhi to Orissa. But, after 72 hours, the train still did not reach the destination... and my skin became dirty and dark like the Tamilians.”

She could have implied her skin became dirty, and dark like a Tamilian's.

To be fair, dirty is not associated with a Tamilian. But dark skin is.

If this was indeed her intended statement, then all she said was the delay in her train journey made her skin dirty, and also made her skin dark like a Tamilian's.

If we were to give her the benefit of doubt, then all she is claiming is that Tamilians have dark skin. So, what is wrong with that?

Tamilians who descended from the original Dravidians are darker skinned.

FRANKIE D'CRUZ is editorat-large of The Malay Mail.

The multiple award-winning journalist can be contacted at frankie@mmail.com.my

MonDay 22 August, 2011

the malay mail

7

8

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

hotline@mmail.com.my

tel:03-7495 1000/1001/1002 tel:019-261 4948 (after 9pm)

your right to be heard ● ● ● ●

Complainants have to submit their personal particulars and provide a detailed account of their complaint.

Complainants have to first file their complaints with the respective parties before contacting Hotline.

Complaints referred by Hotline to the relevant parties would be published if there is no response in seven days.

After a complaint has been resolved, the complainant cannot demand non-publication of the matter.

By T.K. LETCHUMY TAMBOO, IKRAM ISMAIL and FAIZAL NOR IZHAM

'Adopt my dogs'

Arumugam prepared to give up 'babies' if they can find good homes ANIMAL lover P. ARUMUGAM, under intense pressure from the public, has decided to give up his 56 dogs and eight cats and put them up for adoption as pets.

The 62-year-old retiree, who calls his dogs his "babies", has decided to give them up following advice from several quarters, including City Hall.

"I have no objection to my dogs being adopted by other people if they can provide them with good homes," he says.

"I have been asking around for people who are interested in adopting the dogs but sadly, the demand is not there."

ARUMUGAM has been keeping his dogs in kennels or cages and a few in the back garden of his two semi-detached houses in Jalan Krian, off Jalan Ipoh, for the last two years.

His love for dogs grew after he witnessed his niece's dog, Brownie, go to him despite the times he abused him. Once he threw Brownie into his niece's swimming pool and yet the dog swam back to him, says ARUMUGAM. From then on, he turned vegetarian and pledged to dedicate his life to the welfare of dogs.

However, his neighbour, MANOHARAN VADIVELOO, has been losing sleep because of the dogs' incessant

HOME FOR HIS 'BABIES': The two semi-detached houses where the 56 dogs are kept

UP FOR ADOPTION: Arumugam (inset) says he will give up his dogs if others will care for them — Pix: SHARUL HAFIZ ZAM

barking, and turned to Hotline for help.

MANOHARAN says he does not know how many dogs ARUMUGAM has but the barking is "enough to make a person go deaf."

ARUMUGAM defends himself by saying his dogs do not bark excessively and are not a nuisance to the neigh-

bourhood as there are hardly any residents around the area.

He also says he treats his dogs well.

"City Hall has visited my house many times and I was given three notices and compounded once," he says. "In fact, their latest notice was issued to me three months ago.

"Despite that, I have con-

tinued to keep my dogs as nobody wants to adopt them. I also believe I am the best caretaker that they can get."

ARUMUGAM says he spends RM1,500 on dog food alone.

Those interested in adopting the dogs may contact him at 012-6790425.

FLASHBACK: Our 'Hotline' report on Thursday

Charged annual fee for closed Internet account HE thought he had terminated his Streamyx TM Net account and settled his outstanding bills.

Imagine NICHOLAS SOOSAY's surprise when he began to receive letters from a debt collection agency demanding payment.

It happened in June, almost half a year after he had closed his account with TM. For the last 10 years, SOOSAY, 32, had subscribed to the Streamyx service, registered under his name and installed

at his parents' home in Pangsapuri Villa Angkasa in Jalan Sentul Bahagia.

However, when he and his wife moved to their new house in Kepong, his wife subscribed to another WiFi package and he terminated the Streamyx account.

He says he closed the account on Dec 24 at TM Point in Kepong.

After filling up the termination form and submitting it to the counter staff, he was told the account had

been terminated.

"I had no outstanding balance and I have the documentation to prove it," he says.

However, in January, SOOSAY received a bill for RM24, itemised as the annual subscription fee for the period of Dec 22, 2010, to Dec 22 this year.

"As I had terminated my account, I put it down to an error and ignored it," he says.

However, he received a reminder from TM dated Feb 7, followed by a letter from a debt

collection agency on May 11.

He called TM Net and was told by the telephonist the annual fee would have been waived if he had made his payment before Dec 22, 2010.

The telephonist told him the annual fee is automatically generated by the system every year on Dec 22 for the following 12 months. " I told him I had terminated my line and as such, there is no reason to pay the annual fee."

SOOSAY says he was relieved when he received a call

from TM on June 29, informing him his bill has been nullified.

"I informed the debt collection agency of this about a week later. However, I have received an SMS from the agency, asking me to settle the amount."

SOOSAY is puzzled over the chain of events and hopes the matter can be resolved as soon as possible. ● A SPOKESMAN for TM says the problem is the result

of a technical error.

"Our technical and billing teams have discovered that the delay in terminating the customer’s account was due to a technical error.

"However, we have since terminated his account and written off the annual subscription fee charged.

"We have informed the customer there is no outstanding amount and we have closed his account accordingly."

When contacted, SOOSAY is happy with the outcome.

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

9

1. Selayang residents can pay their assessment and City Hall to carry out fortnightly enforcement fees and renew planning and trading licences against vice activities beginning mid-March.

TAKE NOTE 3. The number of illegal advertisements taken at the Selayang Municipal Council's drivedown by City Hall has dropped from 243,484 in the first six months through counters, located in front of the council and open from of last year to 227,985 for the corresponding period this year. The 8.30am to 4.30pm.

2. To stamp out the red-light district reputation of Brickfields, the Federal drop is attributed to the government's crackdown against loansharks Territories and Urban Well-being Ministry joined hands with the police and peddlers of sex stimulants.

Roadside junkyard Remove eyesore, say Taman Seri Selayang residents

Online comments www.mmail.com.my Duo's bus woes (Aug 19) ● THERE is an acute shortage of bus drivers in Malaysia. That is the reason these drivers have become very bold. As for the Metrobus, it is strange they actually don't follow their bus route.

How did the company obtain an open licence and is this 'profit before service' attitude condoned by the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD)? — Anonymous ● I WISH the Prime Minister would come down, like normal Malaysians, and take the public transport. Then he will see with his own eyes the actual situation. On the one hand, we have the RapidKL buses which operate like government buses where passengers have to wait for two hours for them to arrive. And, on the other hand, we have the Metrobus and SJ Bus which usually wait until their seats are full before moving on. The authorities do not seem to care even though some drivers act like gangsters. The PM should also look at Singapore's public transport. — Syed Harun ● BUS services in KL have been crippled since minibuses were removed from the road. What is left are a rowdy, undisciplined pack of drivers. While in service, the mini-buses did their job as many who have taken them would remember. Then 'progress' was forced upon us, and now, the general public who can drive have to drive because it is no longer a matter of choice. Spare a thought for those forlorn bus passengers waiting by the road. — Vigilante

NUISANCE: Residents of Taman Seri Selayang want this car towed away because it is an eyesore and obstruction — Pic: Shahir Omar

A RUSTING car abandoned by the roadside in Taman Seri Selayang has been a source of concern for residents there.

With its front bumper stripped and metal frame decaying after being exposed to the elements, the residents are wondering when the authorities will take note and tow the car away.

A resident, who only wished to be known as TAY, tells Hotline the car has been there for some time.

He says it is not only an eyesore but also an obstruction and a nuisance to other motorists who might wish to use the spot to park their cars.

"It's baffling as to why it has not been removed. It doesn't

look like it can be used."

TAY says the residents do not know who the owner is.

The car's registration plates are also missing.

He says he and other residents have lodged complaints with the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS).

"Nothing has been done.

We hope it can be towed away

as it is a nuisance." ● When contacted, the council says its officers have visited the scene and placed a notice on the car instructing the owner to remove it within two days.

"Follow-up action will be taken if the owner fails to remove the car."

Embarrassed by check-in mix-up ISMAIL RAMLEE, of Cheras, was left embarrassed over a mix-up at Kota Kinabalu Airport last month when his guests were not allowed to check in for their flight.

He says he had bought the Firefly tickets for his guests to fly to Kuala Lumpur on Aug 5.

On that day, he was at a business dinner when he received a call from one of the guests saying they could not check in.

"My two guests were supposed to board at least 45 minutes before their 10.30pm flight. They arrived at 8.30pm and were surprised when told no reservation had been made," says ISMAIL. "I had to call the airline and fax over documents to verify the online reservation I had made."

His guests were finally allowed to board the plane but had to carry their luggage with

them.

ISMAIL says he even called the bank to check if his payment for the flight tickets had successfully gone through as he feared that was the reason for the problem.

"The incident caused me and my guests embarrassment," he says.

He wants an explanation and compensation from Firefly and also an apology for the inconvenience his guests had to go through. ● A SPOKESMAN for FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd (Firefly) says an investigation shows that when ISMAIL’s guests tried to check in, its staff could not find their reservation in the system because of transposed letters in the reservation number given to the staff.

"Firefly passengers are not required to bring the flight itinerary and can check in with just positive ID such

as passport or MyKad and quoting the PNR or Booking Reservation Number.

"There are also instances where passengers present their positive ID and our check-in staff would be able to retrieve the reservation.

"Our staff attempted to search for the reservation via the passengers' names as an alternative but the order of the names provided during the booking process differed in order to that on the MyKad and this hampered the retrieval process."

The spokesman says the incident probably occurred because of miscommunication and "not any intentional denial of service on the part of the staff ".

"Although the staff was unable to retrieve the reservation, at no time did the staff doubt the legitimacy of the reservation or assume that payment was not made.

"In the interest of ensuring the passengers (ISMAIL’s guests) were checked in in a timely fashion, the check-in staff issued a manual boarding pass. Unfortunately, in this instance, they could not check-in their baggage.

"Firefly apologies if the passengers and ISMAIL were embarrassed by the incident."

The spokesman says that as the 15kg checked baggage allowance was not used

by ISMAIL's guests, Firefly will arrange for RM50 to be refunded to ISMAIL’s debit card.

“Please allow us eight weeks to complete this process."

When contacted, ISMAIL says he is not satisfied even though Firefly emailed him an explanation on Aug 9.

"They never called me to apologise for embarrassing me and my guests."

● WOW! The complainant, ELIZABETH CHRISOSTOM, waited for the bus in style with her trendy sunglasses. Love it. — Ben Yap ● TRANSNATIONAL, please tell us what action have you taken against the said driver? Passengers' lives are at stake here. If I were in the bus, I would have taught the arrogant bus driver a lesson. To smokers, if you want to kill yourself, just go to one corner on your own and do so. Don't share your smoke with others. — Disgusting Annoying neighbour (Aug 16) ● THE issue is not merely about neighbours, it is more about residential areas designed by city planners and unrealistic land and property prices.

Residential areas are designed too dense, so people become stressed. — AgreeToDisagree Man's best friends — 56 of them (Aug 18) ● P. ARUMUGAM's intentions are noble but, sadly, many view it as an annoyance. We live in a society that disregards animals. We fail to realise that we took land from the animals instead of the other way around. But to keep 56 dogs in a small premise is not acceptable, too, and I pity his next-door neighbours. If Arumugam is sincere, he should consider moving to a place where his dogs will have enough room to play and run around freely. The council has every right to penalise Arumugam, and knowing our local councils, they will most likely put the dogs to sleep. Arumugam's actions may result in the death of the dogs. Sad but true. — Lim CH ● HIS love for the animals is understandable but I advise him to get empty government land or rent any empty land where he can keep the dogs. Hopefully, some dog-lovers can help him. I understand the love of a dog, my dog always waits for me at the gate whenever I come home. He can recognise the sound of my car two blocks away. My other dog, when it was a puppy, was rescued by a Malay family from a monsoon drain. It was kept in a cage for three days before they found a home for the dog. — Think

10

letters&opinions

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

● Email: mmnews@mmail.com.my Fax: 03-7495 1229

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

● Opinions may be in the form of Letters to the Editor or comments posted in relation to all news. ● Letters to the Editor must carry your name, address and contact number. A pseudonym may be included.

PJ: Crazy splasher strikes again (Aug 18)

Advertise suspect's face

POLICE are on the lookout for the coward robber and madman suspected to have splashed either concentrated or diluted acid onto the faces of three men.

Two of his victims were also robbed.

The attacker probably chose to use corrosive substance as a weapon of choice to commit crime because it is cheap and easily available at any hardware store.

At the same time, the attacker has eliminated the need to carry knives or guns or any sharp objects.

The plus point of it all is that it is easy to use. All the attacker needs to do is to just

splash the liquid onto the intended person’s face, rob him and flee immediately, leaving the victim in shock and screaming in excruciating pain.

This is what many would call 'a piece of cake' for the robber-cum-acid splasher as there is no need to engage in any struggle or retaliation from any of his victims.

Last week, the police released a photofit of the suspect to the media to be printed, aired and publish.

The police are hoping that with the cooperation from the public, the attacker can finally be brought to book.

Another way the police can

do to highlight the issue is by showing the suspect’s face on giant advertisement TV screens that can be found on the streets of Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya as well as in other States, similar to what the police in London did to track down the looters and rioters in the recent mayhem.

Our local police should give it a try because by posting the suspect’s face on the giant TV screens, it will not only attract the attention of the public but also make the public more wary of their surroundings.

HOW THEY LOOK LIKE: Photofit of the splasher-robber (top) in the latest cases, and suspect in the earlier Bangsar cases

Mohd Faizal Abdullah

More effort needed to tackle problem of acid attacks THESE latest acid splashing attacks look more like "copycat" versions of the spate of attacks several months ago.

We know the police are capable of catching the coward but the question is how much effort is being put in

to tackle the problem of the acid attacks.

Much has been said about installing CCTVs in the city and the surrounding areas but I don't see this happening.

I wonder if all the talk was

just for show or merely a toothless threat to scare off would-be criminals.

The CCTVs are to ensure everything is being recorded real-time, especially in cases like these, but nothing has emerge from this.

I also find it hard to believe the police are not following up on this case from the moment it occurred to apprehend the attacker.

Isn't acid a cont rolled substance? Why haven't the police initiate checks on

PJ: KL, Selangor taxi drivers want govt to address problems (Aug 14)

tion that the RM19 per day charged for renting the permit includes road tax, third party motor insurance, inspection fees and administration costs.

Many taxi companies offer several rental-free days over a year as incentives. The caring ones also give out cash awards for children of taxi drivers who have done well in schools.

To end these woes, education and training would help existing and new taxi drivers.

Politicians would be doing them a disservice if they support the preposterous demands.

Instead, new measures are necessary to transform the taxi industry.

For example, the number of permits should be controlled and granted only to deserving taxi companies and drivers.

Companies that make genuine attempt to discipline their drivers and compensate the passengers should be supported.

Permits should be earned and not given freely to drivers.

Those interested are to be placed in a registry and given the permit after a probationary period, which includes training and monitoring.

It has been a long-standing

practice that anyone with a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence may pay a downpayment and drive away a taxi.

The taxi company has no other interest or control over the drivers as long as the instalments are paid on schedule.

Taxi companies must not remain passive rent-seekers.

They should be more in control of their drivers.

A portion of the profits from the RM19 charged per day for the permit should be used to educate, train and rehabilitate existing drivers.

Those who are aggressive or oblivious of their job specs need counselling.

As taxi service impacts the nation’s productivity and quality of life, the authorities should be more proactive and nurture the industry.

Packages for taxi drivers should be made available so they can take part in schemes that give them peace of mind such as life insurance, medical cover, personal accident, EPF contribution, bank loans etc.

New technology such as cashless payment system can be introduced and taxis fitted with such devices would be

I am sure someone can recognise the photofit distributed by the police.

Perhaps the police should offer a reward for information.

PrincessPJ

PJ: Airport tax hike: Security blanket extras (Aug 15)

Go for cashless payment system RECENTLY, the Taxi Drivers’ Welfare Association disclosed the seven demands they submitted to the government have not received any response.

A popular radio channel also picked up on the issue and discussed their woes in one of their talk-shows.

Comments were made on the demands but the host failed to realise the drivers concerned are mostly self-employed.

It is akin to hawkers asking for insurance cover, Socso, EPF, housing and personal loans just because they are paying rental for the stalls.

Taxi companies merely rent out cabs to drivers and once the instalments are fully paid, the car belongs to the driver who can then choose to continue operating the same vehicle as a taxi by renting only the permit or repeating the cycle. These contracts are on a 'willing seller willing buyer' basis.

Taxi drivers can try to apply for their own permits and some of the successful applicants may fail to secure a bank loan. They may then use the credit facility provided by taxi companies but at much higher interest rates.

The association did not men-

hardware stores for purchases of these item?

I wish somebody or anybody out there who knows something about the culprit to come forward and bring justice to those people who are now scarred for life.

the preferred choice of many passengers.

Successful implementation would require the coordinated effort of the three parties.

A taxi company with proven record of expertise in this area will have to work with a cashless machine vendor and supported by Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD).

About half of the cabbies would be given their own permits and operate their own taxis.

A cashless payment system is the best way to monitor most of the taxis in the Klang Valley.

The drivers would naturally behave for fear that money may not be credited to their account should customers complain.

They can also agree to have a certain portion automatically deducted in order to participate in a selected scheme such as voluntary EPF. The government can show its caring side here by topping up with a certain portion.

The mindset of taxi drivers may change when they are no longer left to fend for themselves.

YS Chan

Be transparent IF the government and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) want to impose the proposed new airport tax and also the fee to cover the maintenance and equipment cost of the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS), let things be transparent.

Inform the public on how much the whole system actually costs? It is just unfair to practise the same

exercise in the collecting of tolls at highways, and collecting tax from airline passengers.

Also, will there be a concession period given to the MAHB? If the US is so much in need that ever ybody become as paranoid as they are now, why not let the US government bear the cost?

Nawawi

PJ: Down2Earth: A sort of homecoming (Aug 18)

Welcome back, Terence IT IS t r u ly a ple asure t o k n ow t h at Te r e n c e Fernandez is writing again for The Malay Mail.

We can now expect more investigative reports as the way The Malay Mail did decades ago and coming out with many exposés and campaigns that made headlines locally and around the

world.

It is good if The Malay Mail can go back to the good old days again. After all, it is about time.

I think in The Malay Mail we can trust and I believe readers like to read such stories.

Bulbir Singh

MonDay 22 August, 2011

the malay mail

11

Six months of revolt in Libya

Fighting rages as rebels close in on Tripoli, regime vows not to "abandon the fight"

28 EU sanctions follow similar action

by US and UN

Civilians killed in Nato-led coalition airstrike

1

27 Moscow demands Gaddafi’s resignation

NEW YORK

Strauss-Kahn charges could be dropped this week

FORMER IMF chief Dominique StraussKahn could be freed this week, as prosecutors reportedly prepared to dismiss explosive charges that the oncepowerful French politician tried to rape a hotel maid.

The New York Post, citing sources close to the prosecutors, said Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance has concluded the sexual assault charges cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt and will ask a New York judge to dismiss them at a hearing tomorrow.

Nafissatou Diallo, who accused Strauss-Kahn of forcing her into oral sex and trying to rape her when she came to clean his luxury hotel room on May 14, has been summoned to a meet-

STE A T R E BETT

ing today with prosecutors.

Kenneth Thompson, a lawyer who represents the 32-year-old Guinean immigrant, said after receiving Vance's letter he thought all or some of the charges against StraussKahn could be dropped.

"My interpretation of that letter is that they're going to announce they're dismissing the case entirely, or some of the charges," Thompson said yesterday.

"If they were not going to dismiss the charges," he added, "there would be no need to meet with her. They would just go to court the next day to say, 'We're going to proceed with the case.'"

Strauss-Kahn, 62, who quit as head of the International Monetary Fund after his arrest, has pleaded not guilty and is free on bail.

The first blow to prosecutors was the revelation that Diallo lied on her asylum application about a gang rape she said took place in her homeland — a lie which experts said would make her an easy target on the witness stand. — AFP

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

TRIPOLI

Benghazi

LIBYA NIGER

500 km

CHAD

15- Rebels advance on capital, 19 saying they have captured Zliten and Zawiyah

15 National Transition Council is recognised as legitimate government authority

20 Heavy shelling in Brega after opposition claims control of key oil hub

28 Assassination of general Abdel Fatah Yunis, powerful defector from Gaddafi forces

21 Fierce clashes in Tripoli as rebels enter city, Gaddafi vows not to give up fight

Aug

11 Rebels seize Misrata airport

200 km

Misrata

29 France acknowledges it had dropped arms to rebels by parachute Rebel offensive in western mountains south of Tripoli

(Rebel capital)

Brega

Muammar Gaddafi

6

Benghazi Ajdabiya

Syrte Ras Lanuf

Towns controlled by: Opposition Regime loyalists

27 The International Criminal Court issues arrest warrant against Gaddafi for crimes against humanity

Derna Tobruk

Ben Jawad

July

13 National Transition Council is recognised as the official opposition body, uniting all factions

Al-Baida Zliten Misrata

June

17 UN Security Council authorises use of force against pro-Gaddafi loyalists

Nalut Al-Ghazaya

Garyan Zintan

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

EGYPT

23- Zone from the 25 Egyptian frontier to Ajdabiya falls into the hands of insurgents

Zuwarah Zawiyah TRIPOLI

EGYPT

15- Unprecedented 19 anti-regime protests are ruthlessly repressed in Benghazi and Al-Baida

May

A MODERATE 5.0-magnitude earthquake hit off the Indonesian island of Sumatra early today, seismologists said, but there were no immediate reports of damage or tsunami warnings issued.

The undersea quake struck at 4.14am local time at a depth of 39 kilometres around 100 kilometres southwest of Banda Aceh in northern Sumatra, the US Geological Survey said.

— AFP

"is still strong and thousands of volunteers and soldiers are ready to fight".

Rebel leaders said an advance party of fighters had arrived by sea in the capital early yesterday and joined sleeper cells of rebels to launch the final assault, code named "Mermaid".

Another rebel force advanced on the capital from the west, moving in a convoy of around 100 vehicles as onlookers fired celebratory gunfire into the air.

By afternoon they had overrun the eastern suburb of Tajura and boasted that they would seize control of the capital during the night.

A separate rebel party took over an army barracks at a western entrance to Tripoli, raiding the stores of missiles and other ammunition.

Nato Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said early today: "The Gaddafi regime is clearly crumbling.

The sooner Gaddafi realises that he cannot win the battle against his own people, the better — so that the Libyan people can be spared further bloodshed and suffering." — AFP

April

5.0-quake hits off Indonesia

Libyan rebels launched a final assault on Tripoli yesterday to oust Muammar Gaddafi, swiftly seizing swathes of the city and claiming to have captured two of his sons — Saif al-Islam and Saadi.

Kadhafi vowed not to surrender, even as Nato said his regime was crumbling and Britain predicted "the end was near" for the 69-year-old leader, who has kept a tight grip on power in his oil-rich North African nation for close on 42 years.

As the rebels bayed for blood and boasted they would take full control of Tripoli during the night, Gaddafi issued his third message of the day, urging the people of Tripoli to "purge the capital".

"I am afraid if we don't act, they will burn Tripoli," Gaddafi said in an audio address broadcast on State television. "There will be no more water, food, electricity or freedom."

Libyan government spokesman Mussa Ibrahim told a press conference that 1,300 people have been killed in the rebel assault on the capital, describing the fighting as a "real tragedy".

He insisted Libya's regime

Mar

PRESIDENT Bashar al-Assad yesterday scoffed at Western calls to quit over his deadly crackdown on dissent, as a UN humanitarian team visited Syria and the Red Cross hoped to send a mission. "While withholding comment, we tell them that their words are worthless," Assad said in an interview with State television.

"Such remarks should not be made about a president who was chosen by the Syrian people and who was not put in office by the West, a president who was not made in the United States." — AFP

Libyan rebels enter capital

Gaddafi makes last stand after sons captured by opponents

TUNISIA

Assad scoffs at Western calls to quit

TRIPOLI

Feb

ANGRY Sri Lankans killed a police officer yesterday in the latest outbreak of violence sparked by a fear of nocturnal prowlers known popularly as "Grease Devils" that has gripped rural areas in the island nation over the past two weeks.

Another officer and five other people were hurt in two separate incidents in the northwestern Sri Lanka town Puttalam, after residents gave chase to a suspected "grease devil," police and witnesses said. Traditionally, a grease devil was a thief who wore only underwear and covered his body in grease to make himself hard to grab, but the modern iteration has a more sinister reputation as a prowling attacker of women. — Reuters

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

ALGERIA

Cop killed during 'Grease Devil' riot

TUNISIA

world

ALGERIA

12

(The people should) go out now to purge the capital. (There is) no place for the agents of colonialism in Tripoli and Libya — Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi in an audio message broadcast on State television

LONDON

Life on Mars? Fossil find shows it's possible SCIENTISTS have found Earth's oldest fossils in Australia and say their microscopic discovery is convincing evidence that cells and bacteria were able to thrive in an oxygen-free world more than 3.4 billion years ago.

The finding suggests early life was sulphur-based and supports the idea that similar life forms could exist on other planets where oxygen levels are low or non-existent.

"Could these sorts of things exist on Mars? It's just about conceivable. This evidence is certainly encouraging and lack of oxygen on Mars is not a problem," said Martin Brasier of Oxford University, who worked on the team that made the discovery.

The microfossils were found in a remote part of western Australia called Strelley Pool.

In a study published in the journal Nature Geoscience yesterday, Brasier's team explained the tiny fossils were preserved between the quartz sand grains of the oldest shoreline known on Earth in some of the oldest sedimentary rocks ever discovered.

By analysing the fossils, the rocks they were found in and the surrounding environment, the scientists built a picture of Earth at this time as a hot, murky, violent place where there was a high and constant threat of volcanic eruptions and meteor strikes.

"It's a rather hellish picture," he said. "Not a great place for the likes of us. But for bacteria, all of this was wonderful. In fact, if you were to invent a place where you wanted life to emerge, the early Earth is exactly right." — Reuters

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

LONDON

'Radcliffe and my daughter are dating' FINALLY it is out: Harry Potter star Daniel Radcliffe's girfriend's name is Rosanne Coker and her dad has confirmed the two are dating.

The 22-year-old revealed last month he had been secretly dating but refused to name the woman he was "very much in love with", The Age reports. However, Radcliffe has since been sported holding hands with his mystery partner in New York, where he's currently starring in Broadway musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and she's been identified as production assistant Rosanne Coker.

"I don't want to say too much really as they would really prefer to keep things quiet. But Rosanne has worked on the last three Harry Potter films, so she and Daniel have known each other quite a long time. They have been going out for just over a year now," dailystar.co.uk quoted Coker's dad, Malcolm, as saying.

"I have met Daniel and he is a lovely guy. I'm happy for Rosanne and as long as she is happy, that is all that matters to me. No other parent would ask any more.

I know it's not a normal life they live but they have a lot of fun together and, at their age, what more could you ask? Who knows where it is going to lead?"

A new nonfiction book, 'Belieber! Faith, Fame and the Heart of Justin Bieber' to be released on Sept 27, will examine teen pop star Justin Bieber's belief in Christianity LONDON

Debate mounts on slender Kate Duchess hailed as 'role model' for anorexics

LOSING IT: The Duchess looking healthier in her student days (left) and her smaller frame now

LOS ANGELES

'The Help' moves up at box-office WITH strong legs driven by great word of mouth, and moribund competition from new releases, DreamWorks' period drama The Help easily won the domestic box office this weekend, grossing US$20.5 million (RM61.1m), according to studio estimates.

The total represented a 20 per cent drop from the Emma Stone (pic) film's debut weekend and gives the movie a total domestic gross of US$71.8 million after two weekends.

"To be knocking on the door of US$72 million after two weekends certainly exceeds everyone's expectations," noted Disney's new theatrical distribution chief, Dave Hollis.

— Reuters

BOX-OFFICE top ten Top grossing films last week 1. The Help — US$20.5m (US$71.8m) 2. Rise of the Planet of the Apes

— US$16.3m (US$134m) 3. Spy Kids: All the Time in the World in 4D — US$12m (S$12m) 4. Conan the Barbarian — US$10m (US$10m) 5. Fright Night — US$8.3m (US$8.3m) 7. Final Destination 5 — US$7.71m (US$32.3m) 8. 30 Minutes or Less — US$6.3m (US$25.8m) 9. One Day — US$5.13m (US$5.13m) 10. Crazy, Stupid, Love — US$4.95m (US$64.4m)

THE Duchess of Cambridge has become a "role model" on dangerous US pro-anorexia websites because of her continued weight loss.

Once a healthy UK size 10-12, Kate, whose waist is now so tiny she managed to make super-thin Hollywood star Nicole Kidman look dumpy during a recent dinner event in California, is now estimated to be a UK size 4, known as size 0 in the US. While the Duchess has always been slim, sources told The Daily Mail much of her wardrobe has been altered because she has become more slender.

Friends said the Duchess would be "horrified" to learn she was being hailed as a success story on "pro ana" websites, reports The Age. "Kate is very slender but she certainly doesn’t have an eating disorder," a friend said yesterday.

"She’ll be horrified that she is on these sites. Yes, she has lost weight but that’s largely down to the stress she has been under and all the travelling she has done recently."

The Duchess’s athletic sister Pippa, who runs marathons, also features on some of the "pro-ana" sites but it's Kate whose weight loss is the subject of forum debates with young women wanting to know the secret to her shrinking waist.

The sites also chart Kate’s weight loss with photographs from her university days to more recent pictures of her on tour when she is noticeably slimmer.

While a spokesman for the Duchess declined to comment, the UK eating disorders organisation Beat described the websites as "dangerous".

LOS ANGELES

Kardashian’s wedding didn’t cost her a cent KIM Kardashian's wedding to Kris Humphries is estimated to be at a cost of US$10 million (RM29.8m) but the reality TV star hasn't shelled out anything so far, and doesn't need to.

Thanks to a number of side deals, the Kardashian family stands to actually benefit financially from the nuptials, reports The Age. Kim is said to have been paid US$50,000 from Las Vegas' Tao nightclub to host hers and his bachelorette and bachelor parties on July 23.

Her stepdad Bruce Jenner is also said to have negotiated a US$1.5 million magazine deal for exclusive rights to her wedding photos.

Vendors involved in her big day are either discounting or giving their products/services for free in return for the exposure that goes with the Kardashian name.

The 30-year-old curvy babe was even gifted three Vera Wang wedding dresses to choose from on her big day at US$20,000 a pop.

Husband Kris Humphries, 26, is also said to have gotten a hefty discount on his US$2 million Lorraine Schwartz engagement ring.

world

13

More tattoos for 'Glee' star GLEE star Lea Michele (pic), who already has 10 tattoos on her body, wants to add more. She said every inking has a special meaning and she will get more body art as soon as she experiences some significant moment, reports The Age. "I've got 10 little ones now! I have 'I believe' on my wrist, which I was inspired to do after I was in the Broadway show Spring Awakening. I have some musical notes on my back from Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody and I talked Jenna (Ushkowitz) and Kevin (McHale) into getting 'imagine' on our left feet," contactmusic quoted the 24-year-old as saying.

U2's Bono denies health scare reports U2 lead singer Bono yesterday denied reports he had been taken to hospital after complaining of chest pains while on holiday in the south of France. The 51-year-old did attend the Princess Grace hospital in Monaco, but a spokeswoman said it was for a routine checkup. "Despite press stories to the contrary, Bono has not suffered a recent health scare," the spokeswoman said.

"Reports of his being rushed to hospital for emergency treatment are untrue. Bono is in good health and enjoying a family holiday in the south of France." — Reuters

Aishwarya Rai won't flaunt baby bump INDIAN actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan was reportedly approached by an international magazine with an offer for pictures of her baby bump.

Rumours say the actress has refused the offer. The reports quoted a source as saying that just as they refused similar offers for the Abhiash wedding, the Bachchans would like to keep this personal too. In the past, reports the Times of India, many Bollywood and Hollywood celebs like Konkana Sen Sharma, Tara Sharma, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera have flaunted their baby bump.

14 lifestyle

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

Abot to launch novel with album

By CHE'AZ cheaz@mmail.com.my

BONA FIDE PERFORMER: The Rembau girl has produced three alternative albums since 1996

WHEN there's an original, there's bound to be copycats no matter what business you're in. In show business especially, 'trying to be known' yet wanting to be familiar is very much the norm.

For instance, when The Cranberries introduced their brand of music, with Dolores O Riordan's unique vocals, many singers in the country tried to emulate her success. Alanis Morissette, a Canadian-born singer also blew her unique alternative voice, so it was only natural for recording labels to find a Malaysian equivalent.

They thought they had found it in Norimah Muhammad, whom they decided to rename Abot. For a while, the Negri Sembilan girl created excitement with her vocal stylings. In fact, she also won a number of awards too. One of them (perhaps laughable to some), is when she was recognised by the Malaysia Book Of Records as the country's First Alternative Solo Female Artiste in 1997.

A joke or not, the Rembau girl produced three alternative albums titled Buat Orang Timur in 1996, Tak Tahu in 1998 and Sayang Pokpai in 2001.

Her trademark song was Camar which she wrote herself when she was 13. As a character, Abot also left her mark in the industry as one of the most memorable performers who not only could sing, but write her own lyrics.

Since her writing became stronger, her singing career took a back seat. From songs, Abot moved to writing books.

"I started writing novels in 2002 and the first title of my book was Tinggal Jangan Lepaskan. After that moment, my journey as an author started. Now, I'm moving into my eighth book My Happy Tree, that would be released after this coming Hari Raya," she told The Malay Mail.

The book is a joint effort between Abot and Visi Kreatif Publication.

Now here's the twist — although the title is in English, the content will be entirely in Bahasa Malaysia.

"Basically it's the best way of saying that, no one should judge a book by its cover," Abot said.

Accompanying the book, is also

Abot's fourth album. One can consider the album a soundtrack while reading the book.

"I see this as an opportunity for me to make a comeback as a singer. The idea of launching the book and the album together is to allow one's imagination to roam free.

The music would help narrate the story and drama that is in the book. Yes, I am excited."

Abot said the album will not be alternative in concept. It will be an interesting fusion of sounds incorporated in five songs.

The lyrics are rather "deep" as they are written by academicians who are known in the poetry world.

Each of the song tells a story. Mencari Isteri is a poem created by Prof.

Rahman Saari, while Selamat Hari Mati is written by Prof. Madya Datuk Dr Hashim Yaacob from University Malaya.

Penantian Puteri is composed

spired by an old associate Aesos Lai. He came to me and asked to write this novel and gave me the theme.

It tells about a son who is about to sacrifice his eyes for his blind parents. From there, I did my research to find the right emotions to be included in My Happy Tree. The book and the album tell stories that revolve around family ties, friendship and death," Abot said.

There are a lot of romantic conflicts infused in the Abot 1Malaysia project. Abot said she could not wait to share it. "It's time for me to tell all, and explain why I stayed away for 10 years. Something happened to me and there are stories behind my hiding. I am waiting for that right time to share it."

Something happened to me and there are stories behind my hiding. I am waiting for that right time to share it.

— and written by Abot and Audi Mok, while Intan Abah and Sakit Hati Raya are composed and written by Abot. "The five songs relate to the story in my book, based on a tale in-

Afdlin won't be back as host WILL the 18th Anugerah Industri turned-actor-turned-singer said he Muzik (AIM) lose funnyman Afdlin was still mulling over the offer.

Shauki as co-host of the show, “I am thinking about the offer as I who has for the past few rounds don’t know if I can carry the responpartnered Adibah Noor? sibility and whether it’s suitable for It is hard to imagine the breakme, with AIM being more formal in up of the pairing of two largerstructure. I also have to question than-life comics who have found myself whether I am equipped with their following in movies and the necessary knowledge to pull music, but word has it that Afdlin, this off.” at least, will not be retained.

The 27-year-old said he was Instead, Razizan Abdul Razak, thankful for the opportunity and ofor Zizan of Astro’s Raja Lawak fer, but “I will definitely study more fame, has been named Afdlin’s of what’s necessary to make the successor for the job, to be preparations and gauge whether I teamed up with will take it on.

Adibah.

“But again, there is no confirmaSince the official tion the job is mine, so I will broadcaster for reserve any comments until this year’s edition then.” of AIM is Astro, His only hope, however, there have been if he did land the gig, was whispers they that people will not expect would indeed him to dumb it down to place their homemake it funny. grown names on “It’s going to be the show. hard to outdo what The Malay Mail has been done by approached Afdlin Shauki all Zizan, and these years got confirmaand I will tion he has do what I been offered can. I just the spot. will not “Yes, I engage in have been aphumour proached with that may the offer to host not be AIM, but there is appropriate nothing concrete for the event. I at the moment am not afraid of as it has not procriticism, as I algressed beyond ways welcome that. It is private any comments and confidential of whatever at the moment, nature, to and I have no continue to ALL-ROUNDER: Zizan idea how anyone grow and be does not want the same would know,” he more matired roles when it comes said. ture in my to acting stints The comediancareer.”

If indeed Zizan takes on the job, it will cement his crossover to the music industry, after the release of Selamat Jalan, a single that was a collaboration between him and Dina Nadzir.

“I have interests in music, and I can play several instruments and rap. I don’t think that people should think any less of me wanting to be serious in music. I mean, look at the late Tan Sri P. Ramlee. He’s a funny person, but there are serious works by him where he has been able to woo everyone to believe in his craft.”

He said it was the same in Japan and Indonesia, where comics do have successful ventures into music.

“Will Smith is an example of a funnyman done good. The 'Fresh Prince' proves he can make us laugh, and still offer his brand of music, and still take on serious characters at the drop of a hat.

“That’s why it’s important for actors, especially comedians to be selective of roles we take on… to avoid being typecast.”

For Zizan himself, he did not want the same tired roles when it comes to acting.

“It will end up being repetitious in the eyes of my fans. I want to create whole characters with what I’ve been given, so every role has a life of its own, and people don’t see ‘me’.”

With his credibility of hosting live TV programmes, Zizan is sure to do a smack-up job if he does take over Afdlin’s role in AIM. The question is, will he be appropriate for AIM? And that will depend entirely on the production's values and creative direction. — By JOE LEE

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

Marriage the last thing on his mind Story and pix by LOONG WAI TING waiting@mmail.com.my HE is known as the 'Prince of Love Ballads'. For those who have heard him sing, it is rather hard to part with the words penned with great emotions.

His songs have touched the hearts of listeners and admirers alike.

However, Michael Wong or Guang Liang, as he is known, is

BUDDIES: Wong (left) with Malaysian singer Lam Ka Chun

not really a melancholic person.

Instead, the singer is just as cheeky as any kid could be.

Wong, who will be in Malaysia till Sunday, was clearly happy to be back after his last visit eight months ago.

Accompanying Wong during

this year's visit was his “baby”, which fans have been expecting for some time. His “baby”, a new album called Rainy Sunday in Taipei, has received rave reviews.

“For the album cover alone, we spent a lot of time picking

the best photos.

"Initially, the one I chose had to be shelved because it resembled a lot with other artistes’ albums,” Wong said with a laugh. In fact, he mentioned the picture he chose looked like veteran singer Fei Yu Ching’s album cover.

“However, the current one, the final version you’re holding, has only minor touch-ups. You know what? I actually look younger in it!” he joked.

The singer, who was once accused of being gay, remained mum about his marriage plans, citing his work commitment as the main reason.

“Well, when it comes to marriage, there is no rush... I want more time to do what I like before getting ready for a full commitment. I’ve thought of it actually, but when it comes to relationships, it is like songwrit-

ing. Sometimes there is nothing and when you least expect it, fate will have an answer for you,” he said.

Coincidentally, Wong’s birthday falls this month and he wishes the best for everyone.

“I hope I can continue to do what I’ve always loved to do, and I wish people around me will be healthy always. I hope that time won’t pass by so quickly. I want to get the most out of it, especially with my family.”

lifestyle 15

WORK COMES FIRST: Wong is not a melancholic person

16 lifestyle

Shame on you, gatecras

Hear, Say

By JOE LEE joelee@mmail.com.my

twitter @klubbkiddkl

WE’RE nearing Aidilfitri, and the entertainment industry has moved into a more celebratory mood, with endless Ramadan events.

As expected, things can get a little ugly at events of this scale, and over the last weekend, we witnessed something disgusting.

It was an event organised for an orphanage, where the children were to be feted to a sahur in the wee hours of the morning.

As usual, there were the

‘self-invited’ guests. It was embarrassing to see so many wannabe acts, especially newcomers showing up despite not having their names on the guest list.

Some were more ‘polite’ in calling the organisers to beg for invites to show up in their finest.

It’s sad how a charitable event with limited space, could be overrun by the camera hungry.

And if that’s not enough, they didn’t come alone. They

brought an entourage in tow.

A group act of almost a dozen nonchalantly took up a whole table (again, despite they were never invited), and several artistes brought whole clans to accompany them.

Come on, people — it’s a charity event, and showing up in the hope that you get that little extra bit of publicity is just shameless.

To make things worse, when it was time for the buffet, most of these uninvited

guests scrimmaged for the food, leaving the guests of honour in the orphans wideeyed on the sidelines.

Lucky that the food was replenished, but still, it was a sad sight to behold. Come more open houses in the next few weeks, here’s hoping that common sense will prevail among the desperate for attention to at least, have a little heart and realise their actions are just bewildering and hardly doing them any favours.

Says who?

SO no one’s saying anything, but Awal Ashaari and Scha Alyahya are supposedly planning their nuptials for the end of next year.

Seems a tad far a date to be bothered with for now, but the question on everyone’s mind is… are the plans to

walk down the aisle merely a gimmick?

Both sides have not been forthcoming, though to their credit, they were not the ones to begin the whole media circus over whether they were going to tie the knot in the first place.

THERE must be something about gold diggers and money grubbers. At a recent sahur event we were at, this former female reality show contestant trailed this rocker who’s been zooming up the charts of late.

Well, since he is quite a ladies’ man, we didn’t think too much of it – until she virtually

Awal Ashaari

bachelor pad as her own home away from home.

Meanwhile, strangely enough, a couple of the hunkiest acts in the business have revealed proof that she’s not all that loyal as well too to her boyfriend, as she constantly harasses them for attention.

Would the religious department be interested in getting more info from us?

Words that kill friendships

Power hungry WOULD you snap a photo with someone to furnish as ‘proof ’, to brag to everyone that you’re in a relationship?

This newcomer singer would, and has. Word is she was so after the moneybags of this VVIP, that she began stalking him to get an opportunity to get close to him.

One day her opportu-

nity arose, and she managed to get a photo with the definitely rich and available gentleman.

Following which, she began telling her family and friends how they were an item.

Too bad the VVIP doesn’t even know who she is.

EVERYONE’S a businessman come Ramadan, with little side offerings to rake in a few extra ringgit.

This particular entrepreneur, took orders for savouries and various other kuih raya and enjoyed a healthy celebrity clientele.

Unfortunately, he had a run in with an actress who has been in the news more for her personal antics than

A tw

People are talking SHE paints a picture of being a pious girl, having to return home before Maghrib prayers.

And while it’s common knowledge now that she denied every bit of gossip that she started just for those few inches in the rags, we have the best news on the grapevine on her.

Sources revealed that this newcomer actress, is living under the same roof as her actor boyfriend.

Upon seeking more information, we found out that she has made her significant other’s

Busin

Scha Alyahya

WE’RE not quite sure what happened here. This singer had a buka puasa event, where only his closest friends were invited.

Apparently only a single member of the media showed up, and sat alone. As the calls to end the fast rang out, and everyone was tucking in, the star took to the mic to thank attendees, and pointed out the solo journo, and remarked how she was the only one to show up, and how she could eat everything on the table.

We’re not sure what was the intention of the statement, or whether it was misunderstood or misconstrued somehow.

Anyway, needless to say, she immediately upped and left, despite barely beginning to break fast.

Fussy AZWAN Ali and Didie Alias took potshots at each other over Twitter during the weekend.

It all began when the controversial TV personality took a swipe at an unnamed duo on a gameshow, likening them to chimpanzees for their antics.

Didie, meanwhile took

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

ashers!

iness gone wrong her acting. She ordered 14 containers of the kuih, but never collected the items.

And oh yes, of course, she hadn’t paid for them either.

The businessman, wanting to close accounts, began sending out his wares, but the actress kept saying she was busy, before eventually deleting the entrepreneur from her BlackBerry messaging service.

Wilber Pan: I want to be like Angelina Jolie

And finally when he did manage to contact her, she just curtly replied she did not want the order anymore.

Needless to say, the businessman is fuming at the actress, and took to Twitter and Facebook to vent, saying it was not about the money, but at least simple courtesy in honouring the custom order she made.

wo-in-one deal? became his Siamese twin, refusing to even be parted for a second from the man.

Now, we hear from the rocker that she’s called him, and uttered terms of endearment.

She didn’t seem perturbed that he was spoken for, and the best thing is – her flirtations were in front of her

rumoured boyfriend, a fellow participant in the show.

To make things stranger, while she called him the next morning after obtaining his number, the supposed boyfriend and wannabe singer called him too, and said they should hang out and work together.

Wow!

artistes offence, with the reference

by Azwan apparently made towards her and her co-host, Enot in Kalau Berani 1 vs 0.

Both sides did not name each other, but the drama was there for all to see.

All we can say is… really, kids?!

Didie Alias

Azwan Ali

17

LOVING THE JOB: On his latest album, Will said he had put in "101 per cent" of hardwork

TAIWANESE singer/actor Wilber Pan, or Will as he is more fondly known, recently hinted to the Press about the girl he is currently going out with.

“She’s from the entertainment industry as well. She’s into acting and can’t sing. And oh! She’s not from Taiwan.

That’s all I can say,” he said, flashing a cheeky smile during a Press conference at One World Hotel in Bandar Utama.

He was here as part of a promotional tour for a new album, 808. The self-confessed “young at heart” singer joked that he is letting nature take its course, and would eventually settle down when he could no longer sing or dance — when he is 65 that is.

“Of course, my mother is rushing me, but I am not in a hurry though,” he said in a recently.

“Seriously, I’m giving myself some time before finally settling down. My target is to start looking for my partner when I hit 35.”

What about children?

“I love children!

I don’t mind if I have lots of kids, without a mother.

I want to be like Angelina Jolie, adopting kids from different countries.

I think my own mother won’t mind, even if we come from a traditional Chinese family.

We’re in a modern society now and I’m sure my mum will accept those kids as my own,” he shared.

On his latest album, Will said he had put in "101 per cent" of hardwork and hopes that fans will love it.

He mentioned the new album is rather personal as he was involved with the production from the start.

“It was stressful in the beginning. It’s like putting the first drawing on a piece of blank paper.

There were a lot of things that need to be thought through like music arrangement and such, but it was a fun learning process for me.

“There is no limitation when it comes to acting or singing. I want to try out different roles and gather as much experience as I can,” he said, hoping to experiment with orchestral music in his next album.

The American-born Mandopop singer, who finds night time and the bathroom as his "source of inspiration" to write music, said the person he wants to work with the most is his “Malaysian brother” Bernard

Wilber Pan

Hiew, a local TV personality better known as Tau Foo Pok. The two guys bear a striking resemblance to each other and that has prompted Will to come up with an idea to work with Hiew.

“I think the best way to work with each other is by acting in a TV series about long-lost brothers who were separated as children, and meet again after all the years,” he said with a chuckle.

Will said there is no concrete plan for a concert yet at the moment, although there are talks about a possible stopover in Malaysia.

“I’ve never been to Malaysia for a concert and I am definitely looking forward to it. When the time comes, I will have some dates to announce soon.”

During his visit, lucky fans got the chance to meet their idol in four locations throughout Malaysia — the Kampar campus of Universiti Tun Abdul Razak, Universiti Multimedia Melaka, Penang Megamall and The Spring Mall in Kuching. — By LOONG WAI TING

18 lifestyle

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

A 'wau' factor venue with kids THE Sunway Pyramid’s concourse area was transformed into an educational and entertaining stage recently with the presence of four wau experts from Terengganu.

The experts went to show children the art of making a wau. It also marked the kick-off of the ‘Celebration of Wau Raya’ event at the shopping centre.

The 50 lucky children were from Yayasan Chow Kit and Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Bandar Sunway (Special Education Unit). It was a pretty colourful sight as the children were all dressed in their traditional outfits.

The cheers were heightened and they got even more playful when the famous Kelantanese song Wau Bulan came on as the soundtrack for the Wow Raya dance performance that was presented on stage. The dancers depicted a simple story describing the euphoria of playing the wau on a beautiful day in its choreography. The wau theme further extended to the outdoor streetlights near Sunway Pyramid’s entrance, creating a warm atmosphere filled with the kites of many

CULTURAL IDENTITY: It was a pretty colourful sight as children were all dressed in their traditional outfits

colours, shapes and sizes.

For this year’s Hari Raya celebration at Sunway Pyramid, the wau was chosen as its central theme because it is more than just a Malaysian kite, but a precious national heritage.

AMAZED: Two children tried making a wau from scratch during the workshop

It also holds special childhood memories to some, a reminder of love and fun while growing up — which expresses the true meaning of Hari Raya.

“Festive celebrations are great avenues to inculcate timeless traditions, fascinating cultural exchange and fostering understanding,” Sunway Pyramid chief executive officer H.C Chan said at the event.

Also present at the event were Sunway Group deputy chairman Datuk Razman M Hashim and wife Datin Latiffah Kamaruddin; Sunway City Property Investment managing director Datuk Ngeow Voon Yean as well as Sunway Pyramid chief operating officer Kevin Tan. As the celebration came to a close, Razman and Latiffah

TOKEN OF APPRECIATION: Razman (centre) and Chan (left) presenting a goodie bag to one of the children

gave Sunway Pyramid’s limited edition Wau Raya Packets to children, containing RM50 each while Ngeow, Chan and Tan gave away goodie bags containing food vouchers, a wau kit which consists of tools to make a kite, and other stuff sponsored by various vendors at the shopping centre.

The children were later given a tour at the Raya Bazaar and

Malaysian Craft Promotion area, accompanied by Razman and Latiffah at LG2 before breaking fast at Tarbush restaurant.

Those who missed the launch can still experience what the children did. Just go to Sunway Pyramid and attend the Wau Craftsmanship Demo

by Terengganu wau-maker, Ariff Mazlan who will show visitors how to make a wau from

scratch. There are also dance performances and other fun activities going on now until Sept 4.

Shoppers will also get to redeem limited-edition Wau Raya packets with a minimum spending of RM100 in a single receipt while Raya packets and 1 Marks & Spencer food voucher are rewarded for spending of RM500 in two receipts.

Healthier mooncake choices FOR a taste of a different type of mooncake, head on to The Baker’s Cottage, and try any of its Golden Bliss mooncake that is currently on sale in conjunction with the Mid-Autumn festival.

Last year, The Baker’s Cottage's mooncake theme was Grand Ruby, and the main

TRENDY: A nice gift set that anybody will love

concern was healthy eating, with nutrition as the main aim.

For this season, the health concept remains and mooncakes under the Golden Bliss label are made from carrots and pumpkins, giving mooncake its golden orange colour, mixed with an assortment of roasted

macadamia nuts, dried blackcurrants, cranberries, sunflower seeds and white sesame. The white lotus paste is used for its distinctive taste and nutritious properties.

The Baker’s Cottage has also introduced another four new mooncake flavours, including Mint Hazelnut Truffle (ingredients include mint glu-

tinous pastry skin, fine hazelnut lotus paste, caramel filling with chocolate marshmallow truffle); Espresso Walnut Latte (made of coffee Cantonese skin, aromatic coffee lotus paste with walnut, melon kernel seed, milky filling with refreshing apricot); Cheesy Choc-Oreo (chocolate butter pastry skin, dark chocolate lotus paste with melon kernel seeds, and Oreo filling with roasted almond nibs); and Fruity Mixed Nuts Royale (using Cantonese skin pastry, a mixture of nuts and dried fruits).

Besides emphasising on health and wellness, The Baker’s Cottage also encourages the practice of recycling to put vital resources to good use.

Its packaging designs are

WHOLESOME FLAVOURS: The main concern is healthy eating

trendy and stylish. In that case, the mooncakes from The Baker's Cotage can be a nice gift to friends and neighbours during this festive season.

The Baker’s Cottage mooncakes are sold at all major supermarkets, including Jusco, The Store and Carrefour nationwide. Customers can also purchase cash vouchers worth RM60 each at its 34

outlets as special gift tokens to celebrate the auspicious Mid-Autumn Festival.

CORRECTION IN our report titled "A weekend treat made to last" on Aug 16, we inadvertently stated the wrong contact number for the Grand Lexis Port Dickson. The correct number is 06-6532000.

The error is regretted.

lifestyle 19

The Malay Mail Monday 22 august, 2011

Mannerly Kim DESPITE letting fans and entertainment journalists fidgeting in their seats, South Korean superstar Kim Hyun Joong did not let those who waited go unacknowledged.

When the singer, clad in all-black, appeared at the launch of his latest album Break Down recently at the Grand Ballroom of KL Hilton, he awarded his patient admirers with a warm smile. He also acknowledged everyone, especially those who had waited for over an hour, with a friendly wave.

Kim seemed to be pleased, particularly with those who welcomed him at the airport.

Some fans were also seen lingering at the hotel lobby to catch a glimpse of their Korean heartthrob.

Once an original member of SS501, Kim launched his solo album last month which has now sold over 100,000

copies worldwide.

“Break Down is a whole new concept, and this is my first solo album,” he told a Press conference.

A perfectionist, Kim hopes the album, slated for release here in October, would be recognised.

“I never thought my songs would be well-received throughout Asia. Hopefully, fans will get to know a different side of me in my next album,” he said.

He loves all the songs in the album, especially Break Down "because of the message behind the powerful lyrics". "I hope Malaysians will like it too. All of the songs in the album are special to me."

On his new image, Kim decided to sport a more mature look for a change.

“I want that mature and almost dark feeling to it. My friends and fans think it's quite cool and I get a lot of positive feedback from my Malaysian fans as well,” Kim said.

After his Malaysian stopover, Kim will be busy preparing for his Asia Tour concert, which will begin in December.

“Everything is in place already, and I’ll be kick-starting the first concert in December. As far as I know, Malaysia will be one of the stops."

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.

FOR A CHANGE: Kim chose to sport a more mature look

friday'S solution

Story and pic by Loong Wai Ting waiting@mmail.com.my

sudoku

20

the malay mail

Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

MonDay 22 August, 2011

the malay mail

21

22

PROPERTY / MOTORING / HEALTH / HOME / OTHERS

the malay mail

Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

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

M22

Houses wanted

GOOD PRICES OFFERED for land / houses and Apt in Shah Alam, PJ & KL. Quick sale.

Owners TEL / SMS 019-228 6666

M35

M130

Car for sale

BRAND NEW. All models. ( Vios, Altis, Camry, Prius, Avanza, Inova, Rush, Hilux, & Hiace Van) Full & Islamic loan, Int rate at 2. ++%, Special discount + free acc . @ email: shaharudin.toyota@gmail.com

M133

Commercial vehicles for sale

(NEW) HICOM, High discount, high trade in, cheapest in town. Call: 016248 8363 / 012-676 3609.

Properties for sale

Shops for sale DAMAI COMPLEX 41/2 storey shop house for sale, at Jalan Dato’ Hj. Eusoff off jalan Ipoh. Freehold. 019-980 6952

Financing/insurance service

CAR LOAN Refinancing,Buy Used car / New car Blacklisted name are qualified to apply.

Aerowatts Auto S/B(678070-M) Tel:03-6185 8982 012-308 3528,019-314 3601

M321

Fashion/health & beauty

BLUE ROSE AROMAS 24A, Lrg Ara Kiri 2, Lucky Gdn Bangsar.Therapist local Indian g i r l s . P r i v a t e & c o s y. 1 1 a m 11pm.

Ms Meera 0320945542/ 016-2056003

Fashion/health & beauty (NEW) INOKOM & HINO Special promotion, free body. Call:0123211 453/ 012-3225334 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

CUSTOMIZE HAIRPIECE / Toupee / Wig - RM1,700 only. More info : www. hairsetup.com Call: 0193118916 , 03- 9274 7857

M135

Vehicles for hire

M321

Fashion/health & beauty

TRADITIONAL MASSAGE in Cheras & Balakong.

Call Sonia,Hanisha, Julia, Mira & Rosa. 0123676 780. 012-258 1334 YANTRA SLIMMING World brgs excelnt 3 days weight loss (-10kg) Program now at lowest price @ RM799 Can pay by instmnt. Original price RM3889. Fast & Easy, Herbal & Natural. No side effects. $ bec guarantee. Call Rubini 0102617817,0126301672.

M321

In Semua House â “ going lock stock barrel Selling apparels, cushion covers and decoration item. Ground floor shop nicely set up and decorated. Sale RM80k or nearest offer. Contact 019-281 6216/ 012-234 8151

M50

M138

0 AARON MASSAGE Services (1606620-V) by Female. Outcall only. Private & cosy. +6012-393 0136

M394

Home electrical appliances

KITCHEN APPLIANCES Shop.

Raya sale up to 50%!!! For HOOD + HOB (3 burners)= RM1988 + FOC Microwave Oven, Limited Unit Only!

016-718 9901 (Diana)

‘0’ DEPOSIT ALL PROTON Models, no license can buy, Less doc can help. 100% loan for gov. & private staff, int from 3.0%, loan fast approval, high trade in. Meet at your place.

Free smart tag, touch n go, full fuel, steering lock, tinted. Open everyday.Mr Lim 012-214 0207

100% HARI RAYA HAPPY DEAL. Full loan, Int.from 2.18%.

Ready stock, Super discount.

High Trade-in & door-step service, monthly frm RM8XX. Pls call Tan: 012-699 9048

HYUNDAI PROMOTION !!!

Sonata/ Tucson/ Santa Fe/ Starex/ i30/ Accent/ i10. Special discount! Super high trade in (any car). Low d/p & interest. Easy loan approval. Mystery gifts.

Beautiful plate no. Fast delivery.

Excellent customer service.

Head office: 012-381 0737

M390

Home services/renovations

Photography

ALL CARS MPV & Luxury car for hire. Suitable for VIP & weeding ceremony.

Pawn (pajak) accepted. 017932 4646/ 013-671 6565

MITSUBISHI ALL new models.

Fast loan & fast delivery, (Call to believed), Grandis, Pajero, Lancer, ASX, Sport back. Good trade in, Attractive promotion, good deal in town. All models stock available. 24 hrs in call.

Oscar Tan 012-388 5897

VIDEO to DVD Conversion.

Video filming & Photography Svs. 03-4041 6850 / 6277 4991 / HP 012-235 5190. w w w. s h e e l v i s i o n . c o m

ALL NEW MODELS. Attractive promotion. New sport back. Fast delivery, FOC maintenance.

Pls call: 012-326 9849

AN EXTRA Trade in Value,low d/p,spd.delivery, free tint, f/ tank, Ste. lock, T & Go, Many Gifts.

016-321 4958, 010-539 4958

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

Shree 0126561160

M392

Home repairs/maintenance

LOCAL INDIAN girls massage.

P & C. Shalini 016-224 2495 Sharon 011-162 61730 NAMASTE!!! Need a relaxing massage ?

Interested just call : SIMI 014-6311 228 (Indoor only) K.Lumpur

CHEAPEST RATE Car rental in KL. Many types of Cars & MPV. (Pajak- accepted) Call for RAYA booking: 012-987 7756

REPAIR ON THE SPOT., Air cond, fridge, water heater, & w/machine.

24hrs & 7 days operation.

Call: Syed 017-388 3154

M393 AKS BEAUTY CENTRE Body massage + scrub (2hrs) RM100. Whitening facial (1hr) RM50, (1 1/2 hrs) RM70. Hot stone oil massage (2hrs) RM130. Call:03-7984 3077 PROMO RAYA. Alza, Viva, Ready stock. Discount RM2,500.

Loan 100%. Instant approved.

Call: FAZLI 017-336 6675

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

AROMA ASIAN Massage. For outdoor only. With Promotion price.

Interested please Call Julie: 016-293 1051

MQA APPROVED DIP.in accountancy (ACCT) & Mgt (FT / PT) RM 400 p/m - PTPTN & EPF claimable. Call: 0360925254 / www.asa.edu. my / SMS: 012- 656 1160.

Home furniture/furnishing

PROVEN & TESTED: Over 9,215 people won 4D in a week! Last 2 days for those who want to take the 1 hour 4D Training Prediction Course, to win this week coaching by the Professional Author and Physics Maths Expert at our Training Center at Pusat Kajian Fizik Sains, Sunway. Call: 019329 4728 Mr. Yap or 012-239 2775 Mr. Goh to book now.

Get this new 4D Formula book title: Rahsia Menang Lottery 4D Akhirnya Terbongkar. Click to see www.SureKena.com

M303

Computer SPECIALIST IN notebook / pc repairs. Best price & services.

On-site repairs & free troubleshooting.

Call 016-380 1984 Teh

OUT DOOR/ HOTEL Package massage by young Chinese, Indonesia, Thai girls.

Please Call: 014-6620 579 OUTCALL TRADITIONAL MASSAGE, pre / post natal,body Scrub for men / women by experienced masseur.

Call: Mira 013-336 3160

M430 SPECIALIST IN REPAIR cushion sofa, curtains, car seat & new sofa, in Jalan Kuchai Lama.

Tel: 012313 0778 / 03- 7981 1898

M394

Business opportunities 1) USD 5 FOR Onex program, earn USD100K++. 2) USD100 for PRE IPO + free shares earn millions. 010-2101649

Home electrical appliances ASX. MIT TRITON. PAJERO Sport, Lancer & Grandis.

Trade in accepted . Call: 012-977 6961 HARUN

VOLKSWAGEN 2011. New 5 years warranty + road assist, low int. Models: Passat, GTi Golf, Tiguan, Eos etc.

Rado 012/013-208 9447

AROMA MASSAGE RM39 at Serdang, Judy, Alice, Jenny, Ari, Mira,Jean.

012-678 0220/ 012-3281 449 Batavia /Darlina Beauty House.

SAUNA D’ HOME BEAUTY and Health care. Agent required.

019-735 5295 www.saunaku. com 2011 Great Promotion!

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

A/C, ASTRO, Install/remove &repair, TV, TV8, wiring, tel, w/ heater, plumbing, w/ machine, fridge.Call: 017-345 6618 Ah Seng

M432

Business for sale PROPERTY TRAINING Firms, be own boss start immediately, great potential small capital, high income, low risk consultant - 012-339 7738 / 019-220 7770

M434

Business Services CO FORMATION RM1,400.

Work permit, shelf co., rep. of office, MOF, close down, secretarial & audit.

Call: 012-696 3631.

WELLTAX GLASS & aluminium works. Windows & grilles direct from factory! - sliding casement - main gate - repair door - all aluminium works.

Inquiry call Mr. Ling (M) 019227 0528 (M) 019-202 8855 (T) 03-8962 2189 (F) 03-8962 3189 INDIAN AROMA TRADITIONAL Massage by local Indian girl.

Relaxing for male & Female.

1pm -11pm.

Appointment Revathy. Out call; 016-6468 493

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 AAAAA QUEENS SPA Male and female masseurs, out call service available. Private & Cosy.

Call: 03-9057 1336/ 016-646 9891 www.klqueensland.com

NISSAN ALL NEW Models Promotion. Full loan. Debit cash RM3k - 10K. 100% ready stock with impuls earo kit. Leader seats, tinted. Guarantee 1 week delivery. High trade in. 24 hrs approval. Door to door service.

Call: Junson 016-6666 132

Education

GOLDEN MERMAID. Out call Relaxation massage by Male & Female masseurs. Call: 012-907 5995 / 03-2021 7637

AA MASSAGE: By young female. Rest and relax. Just call: 017-296 3930/ 017-296 3068

KEMENTERIAN KEWANGAN MOF Registration, Bumi status.

Call: 03-40434000 / 019-3840000. www.

Ready Companies.com

M300

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

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

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

ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AGENT Smoker Haven required Private, food/ retail shop & Kiosk.

Easy, good income. Low capital.

Cash/ Credit card. Interested call: 03-8023 4626 (10am 5pm) www.SmokerHaven.com

YANTRA WORLD brng excelnt 3 days Weight GAIN (+20kg ) Program now at RM789, Can pay by instlmnt. Original Price RM3899. Fast, Easy & Herbal.$ bec guarntd. Call Rubini 010261 7817, 012-630 1672

DIABETIC? FREE! Blood Glucose Meter. Get it now!

For info call: 016-3130974 or visit www.medicaldevice2u. com T&C Applies

A DAILY, WEEKLY, MTLY. RM50-RM300. All types of cars.

MPV, Van & 4 x 4. Call: ARI 016683 2111 / BEN 016-901 2276

Business opportunities

M414

M130

Car for sale

M430

BEST BUSINESS Opportunities, run your own free organic store, no investment, no renovations, risk free with multiple income sources. Call 012-256 9668 for more info.

MUSLIM COMPANY Secretary New & Shelf Co. ROC, MOF Bumi Kem. Kewangan Call: 03-40410000 / 0162860000

WE HAVE more than 1 Million Malaysia Updated Email & Phone List to Find Your Customers Group 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

M436

Leasing/loans CAR REPAYMENT PROBLEMS? R.O, Auction, Finance? Let us help you settle them. You pay us nothing!

T&C apply. Call: 017-641 5062

M398

Services ACCOUNTS, AUDIT ,TAX, Secretarial, MOF & Register co..Door steps service.

Lembah Klang.03-5511 5922 / 03-4107 8457 Sainy.

Visit www.mhmfirm.com

OTHERS / JOBS / LEGAL / NOTICES

Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011 M398

Services

INTERIOR & ARCHITECTURAL Design Consultancy Tel: (603) 3325 9166 Fax: (603) 3325 9366 Hp: (6012) 321 2096 www.lazern.com We want to buy huge volume used medical X-ray films. Pay top price @ USD$1500 or more per MT without paper.

If available, please email xraymalaysia@hotmail.com for more discussions. Thanks

M515

M515

M515

Jobs

Jobs

Jobs

ACCOUNTS cum Administrative Assistant. Min SPM and above.Experience in general accounting functions & duties.Computer literate and well verse with Microsoft Office application especially Excel. Able to start immediately will be an added advantage.

Applicants must be willing to work in Sg. Buloh. Contact 013-208 0065 Ms. Siti or send your resume and application to kch2001my@yahoo.com

BEAUTICIAN URGENTLY Chinese / malay beautician wanted with certificate and at least 6 month experience in beauty line. Plzz call 03-26937641 (Ninder)

SEC. GUARDS Needed at Rawang Area. Salary RM1,400.00.

Epf, Socso, medical insurance and hostel provided.Pls contact Bizuan 0194977768, Silva 014-2597103, Chandran 012-3760640, 032282 7055 & 03-2282 7044 ONLINE EDUCATION BUSINESS. We are looking for business partners to expand our market share. The only e-learning portal endorsed by the Ministry of Education.

Huge market potential (Std 1 to Form 5). Pioneer & leader in e-learning. Low start-up capital. High income return.

SMS your particulars <NAME> SPACE <AGE> SPACE <OCCUPATION> SPACE <AREA> to 012-3776739

M280

Friendship AGE 18 - 55. Girls seeking for P & C Boy friends. Free membership for girls. Call: Alan 019-6969 379

M323

BISTRO BAR AT Damansara requires (1) Manager; attractive salary RM2K++ plus comm.) Required with working experience in Pub & Bistro, Chinese female encouraged to apply. Interested call Chris at 014-262 6300

Pets BRANCH MANAGER / Sales & Marketing Exec.

Selling International & local Project, gd income.Fresh graduates. Based in Kajang, KL, PJ & USJ Tel: 77276121 usj@or ientalrealty.com.my

TEA CUP POODLE for sale 2 to 3 month old all vaccine and dewormed.

Price:RM 950 Call:012-249 5424

TOY POODLE 2 month old vaccine and dewormed. price: RM550-750 Call: 012-249 5424 view:www. puppiesglobe.blogspot.com.

M370

Articles for sale

BUDGET HOTEL / Guest house in KL. Hotel receptionist.

Proficient in English.

Basic internet knowledge.

Retiree is encourage to apply.019-3550427 (Koe)

BUS DRIVERS WITH E License & Van Drivers (male/female) needed for international school based in KL. Call: 03-4044 8081 / 012-234 8081 (10am-5pm)

CLIENT SERVICING COLLECTION Exec with 1 yr experience, age below 30 (Bt 11 Cheras) Basic + attractive comm. Call Ms.Chin: 032333 9228 /016-271 9996 TOMAZSHOES! Leather Shoes! RM69 - RM89! High Quality and Comfortable!

Come to USJ9 Mall, Puchong 017-707 8383

M372

DRIVER FOR SENIOR Management urgently wanted.

Must have a minimum of 5 years experience. Honest, good road knowledge and attitude are required. Call Hema at 03-7958 7611 ext 299.

Articles wanted

BUY / SELL / PAWN Note book, hand phone new/ old 70% digital camera.0342517755 / 012-3388688 Peter.

208 Plaza Ampang City, KL

Full color, 260gsm, art card with matt. Lamination.

Other printing services are also available. Call Mr. Rahman H/P 016-3275477 or email adclassic65@gmail.com / a d c l a s s i c 6 5 @ ya h o o. c o m

IMMEDIATE VACANCY FOR 1.Sales Supervisor. Able to handle inventory, staff discipline & etc 2.Sales Coordinator.

Both positions req. Min. SPM, able to speak simple English, good communication skill, creative & hard working.

Location: Zoo Negara & Melaka Wonderland. Call: 012-213 0437 IMMEDIATE VACANCY FOR Sales Exec with min.

SPM. Senior Technician & Junior Technician preferably with experience in Forklift industry. Call: 03-7848 3122 / 3133. Loc: Subang, Mahsing.

IN-HOUSE TAILOR Ladies Wear. Mont Kiara. Part/Full Time.

Salary RM 1K ++ based on experience. Call: 012-201 5526 LEGAL FIRM in Hicom Glenmarie requires.

(1) Conveyancing lawyer (2) Conveyancing Secretary.

Call 03-5569 1760/ 1746 or 012-205 3197.

PRIVATE COLLEGE IN KL requires urgently Receptionist & Cashier. For an appointment, call Gayathri / Laila at 03-2031 0266 REAL ESTATE in Kota Damansara requires Negotiator. With / without experience.

Male/Female.

Any race. Contact 03-6142 7823 / 012-366 2000 or send your resume and application to edwin@i-smarte.com RECOVERY OFFICERS Supervisors/ Managers/ Clerical needed. Attractive basic salary, commission and performance bonus provided.

Loc: near the Pudu LRT station. (walking distance) Call: 03-9195 5551 @ 5552 or E-mail gtr@galatrack.com SALES CO-ORDINATOR. A 25 years well established Co with proven track records & ISO recognition at Bandar Puchong Jaya required min SPM/higher. Working exp in clerical liaise with customer & service dept. Computer literate Chinese dialect preferably Offer Basic+Bonus+Medical Ins+Alt Saturday Off. Contact WAI KING 0358826882/0122329801 or send resume to wkg@corida. com.my /fax 0358826881

Store Assistant (2 positions).

Min SPM level or with related working experience.

Candidates must possess Right Attitude, Initiative and Fast Learner.

Computer literate and Independent.

Preferable Male. Interested please email resume and application to soopeng.sing@ simplex8.com.my or contact Soo Peng at 03-4292 2326 STORE LABOURERS urgently required by a Shah Alam company.Age below 30 years old.

5 days week work. Salary below RM800.00 + Allowance.Contact 03-51911069 (NJ/Badrul) TEACHERS / NURSES Required For Sales Job, Excellent Spoken English, Willing to work on weekends/ Public Holidays, Earn 3k7k Monthly, Retireeâ ™s Can also apply Interested candidates please Send Cv to saim_au@yahoo.com” Vacancy. 1) Store Hand. Prefer stay in Klang area & with motorbike license. 2) Technician / Sales Executive. Prefer with electrical background & with car license. Training provided. Please contact 033324 3362 or 03-3324 5111 email: westbend@hotmail.com VAN DRIVER Required at USJ for 5 days week. Min SPM with 1 year related working experience and able to work in a fast pace environment.

Possesses GDL badge and able to speak English. Call: 03-5638 2208 (Ms. Jessica ) for interview.

VETERINARY DOCTOR & Surgeon needed on full / part time basis Interested pls call: 012-249 5424

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

the malay mail M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

23

24

LEGAL / NOTICES

the malay mail

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

03-7495 1273

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011 M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

M580

Notices/legal/proclaim

sports

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

25

PETALING JAYA: FOOTBALL/ MALAYSIA CUP

Return of the fallen Favourites Negri boosted by Norhafiz, Zaquan's inclusion, says Kunalan

NEGRI SEMBILAN right winger S. Kunalan is confident they can live up to their pre-tournament favourites billing.

KUNALAN: Believes everything is going according to plan

By VIJHAY VICK vijhayvick@mmail.com.my

He believes Negri are the favourites together with Selangor, Terengganu and Kelantan because their players have returned from injuries.

"These players served us well last year. We reached the final but lost to Kelantan last year. This time around, we aim to make the final again and win it," said Kunalan.

"Everything has been going well in training and the players are looking sharp."

Kunalan hopes his pace and penetration from the right flank will be able to unlock defences â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as that style of play served him well when playing for Malaysia.

Negri Sembilan did not enjoy a good outing in the Super League, finishing in the bottom half of the 14-team contest.

However, many believe the return of stalwarts Mohd Norhafiz Zamani Misbah and Mohd Zaquan Adha Abdul Radzak will assist the team.

The duo missed the Super League through long-term injuries and they will be

eager to make up for lost time.

Success in the Malaysia Cup will surely be a sweet redemption.

"It's good to see them back. They are important players to the team," added Kunalan.

However, Kunalan is disappointed that Zaquan's twin Aidil is still injured and is unsure when he will return.

Aidil has been hit by injuries which saw his appearances limited, even for the national team.

Aidil walked out with a dejected look when injury forced him to be subbed out early on in the World Cup round two qualifier secondleg against Singapore last month.

Negri are in Group B t o ge t h e r w it h FA Cup runners-up Terengganu, Premier League champions PKNS and Sime Darby in the Malaysia Cup. In a friendly on Saturday, Negri beat Premier League runners-up Sarawak 2-0.

They will entertain Johor tomorrow and Selangor on Saturday in two more friendlies before having a few days off for Hari Raya.

KEMAMAN: BADMINTON

Repercussion worries Shabery

THE Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM) have to prove that they are still a relevant body to ensure continuing excellence in national badminton, said Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

He said if more players decided to follow the footsteps of Zakry Abdul Latif and Mohd Fairuzizuan Mohd Tazari, who left the national elite squad, it could be con-

strued that the association were no longer relevant.

Expressing his shock over the departure of the duo, Ahmad Shabery said the development would tarnish BAM's integrity as they were not able to retain players under their ambit.

"BAM have been given the mandate to develop players, and if more players decided to leave, we are worried old wounds will bleed again as in the departures of

Muhammad Hafiz Hashim and Misbun (Datuk Misbun Sidek), much to the detriment of all quarters," he said before presenting aid to the needy from the Ayer Puteh State constituency.

BAM president Datuk Seri Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh told a news conference on Saturday that BAM have accepted the resignation of Zakry and Fairuzizuan after 15 years of service without any conditions. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bernama

26

sports

This is not the way I wanted it to happen — Andy Murray after his win over Djokovic TAKE IT EASY: Djokovic (right) is treated by ATP trainer Hugo Gravil during his match — AFP photo

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

CINCINNATI: TENNIS

Shoulder worry But weary Djokovic says he'll be ready for US Open

NOVAK DJOKOVIC was paying the price for sustained excellence this morning, but after retiring injured from the Cincinnati Masters final the weary and aching world No 1 vowed to bounce back at the US Open.

Djokovic, battling fatigue and a painful right shoulder that hindered his serve and forehand, called it quits while trailing Scotland's Andy Murray 6-4, 3-0.

It was just the second defeat of the season for the Serbian, who arrived in Cincinnati after capturing the Montreal Masters the previous week and was trying to complete a third set of back-to-back Masters titles after his Indian WellsMiami hardcourt titles were followed by victories at Madrid and Rome.

In all he has won nine titles this season, including the Australian Open and Wimbledon.

His victor y at the All England Club saw him rise to the top of the rankings, but his spectacular success has a downside.

"I've played so many matches this year," Djokovic said. "I've been winning a lot and reaching the final stages of each event that I've participated in.

"Considering the schedule that is very busy in tennis, it's kind of normal to expect that at some stage you are exhausted.

"But as I said, I am confident that I can recover and be ready for US Open."

Djokovic's only prior defeat this season was to Roger Federer in the semifinals of

the French Open.

That halted his seasonopening winning streak at 41 matches — one shy of tying John McEnroe's 1984 record of a 42-match winning start to a season.

Since then Djokovic had won 16 straight matches, but even in Montreal he was feeling a niggling discomfort in his shoulder.

"The major issue was shoulder," he confirmed. "Generally I was quite exhausted playing many matches, but the exhaustion is not the reason.

"The reason is shoulder pain. I just could not serve. I served an average 90 miles per hour the first serve, and I could not play forehands... Running forehand mostly, or when I'm on the stretch.

"Of course I'm not saying if

I was 100 per cent that I would certainly win because Andy is a great player. But I am sure that we will have a better match."

Now the state of Djokovic's shoulder will become a major topic as the US Open looms.

He said he hadn't pursued an MRI exam.

"I didn't have time," he said.

"I was playing every day."

But Djokovic said the stresses of the season were the same for all top players. Even plans to amend the calendar next season won't help that much.

"There has been certain changes from next year — the year will be two weeks shorter.

"But still, the intensity is going to be the same, if not tougher. But it's the same for everybody. We just have to get used to it and adjust." — AFP

NORTH CAROLINA: GOLF

Simpson takes out Wyndham Championship

Rafael Nadal (ESP) Rank: 2 Defending champion will be looking to grab further Grand Slam success, having won his 10th this year at Roland Garros

Novak Djokovic (SRB) Rank: 1 Has looked unstoppable this year, winning Australian Open and Wimbledon, and losing just once – to Federer in the French Open semis STATS* Age YTD titles Career titles Grand Slams YTD win-loss Source: ATP

Djokovic 24 8 26 3 48-1

*As of Aug 8

Andy Murray (GBR) Rank: 4 Still seeking first major. Made final in Melbourne again this year, and semis at Paris and Wimbledon Nadal 25 3 46 10 51-8

YTD = Year to date

Federer 30 1 67 16 39-9

Roger Federer (SUI) Rank: 3 At 30, Federer could struggle to add to his five US Open titles.

Last Grand Slam win was at Australian Open in 2010

Juan Martin del Potro (ARG) Rank: 19 2009 US Open champion is regaining his impressive form after missing most of last year with injury Murray 24 1 17 0 29-9

Pictures: Getty Images

del Potro 22 2 9 1 36-10 © GRAPHIC NEWS

AMERICAN Webb Simpson w o n t h e Wy n d h a m C hampionship by t hree strokes this morning to capture his first PGA title.

Simpson shot a finalround three-under 67 to finish on 18 under at the Sedgefield Country Club.

George McNeil closed with a 64 to claim second place for the sixth time in a PGA Tour event and his fellow American Tommy Gainey was a further shot back at 14 under. Fiji's former world No 1 Vijay Singh was among a group of five players who tied for fourth at 13 under.

Simpson became the 12th

LET IT FLY: Simpson watches his tee shot on the second hole during the final round — AFP photo

first-time winner on the PGA Tour this season but one of the least surprising as

the 26-year-old had finished runner-up on three occasions. — Reuters

ADDIS ABABA: ATHLETICS

Bekele to defend world title

FOUR-TIME world 10km champion Kenenisa Bekele has been included in the Ethiopian team named this morning for this month's world athletics championships in Daegu, South Korea.

Bekele, who has not featured in a competitive race since January 2010, has been entered to compete in both the 5,000m and 10,000m,

which he successfully won during the last championships in Berlin in 2009.

His participation in Daegu, has however remained long in doubt since he has struggled to shake off a calf muscle injury.

"Everyone has an eye out for Kenenisa Bekele. He will be competing in 5000m and 10,000m even though he’s

recovering from an injury," said the Ethiopia Athletics Federation (EAF) technical director, Dube Jillo.

"I hope he is going to win, he is one of the strongest athletes," he added.

The women's world 10,000m silver medallist, Meselech Melkamu is also included in the team.

— AFP

monday 22 august, 2011

the malay mail

27

28

sports

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

I do not get tired of saying it again and again that I feel at home with Schalke — Raul

MOSCOW: football

Moscow millionaire Eto'o set to be world's highest paid footballer

CAMEROON striker Samuel Eto'o's (pic) mega-money move from Inter Milan to bigspending Russian Premiership side Anzhi Makhachkala is likely to be completed tomorrow, Russian media reported.

"The signing of the deal will likely take place on Monday or Tuesday at the latest, as long as Samuel successfully completes his medical," Eto'o's agent, Claudio Vigorelli, was quoted as saying this morning.

Reports said that Anzhi will pay Inter €25m (RM107.3m) plus performance-related bonuses for the Cameroon skipper.

According to media rumours, Eto'o will receive

around €20.5m-a-year in wages, making him the world's top-earning footballer.

Meanwhile, Cameroonian defender Benoit Angbva, who

currently plays for Anzhi, said he was the man who had initiated Eto'o's transfer to the club.

"We talked with Samuel in June, just before the friendly match between Russia and Cameroon," Angbva told daily newspaper Sport Express.

"He sent a message to the Dagestan club with me, saying: 'If Anzhi are ready to buy me, I will come.'

"I told him everything about the club, the training base, the players and the team's future prospects.

"Samuel believed me and later talked to the club owner, Suleiman Kerimov.

"In short, it was me who

initiated this transfer."

Eto'o, 30, is the most decorated player in African history, having won the Champions League three times — twice with Barcelona and once with Inter.

The four-time African player of the year also won three league titles with Barca and one with Inter, while he has won the Africa Cup of Nations twice with Cameroon.

He began his career with Real Madrid before loan spells with Leganes, Espanyol and Real Mallorca, who he then joined permanently.

He helped Mallorca to a Copa del Rey victory in 2003, earning a move to Barca

the next year.

He joined Inter in 2009 in a swap deal involving Zlatan Ibrahimovic, with the Italians also receiving €50m.

Reports said that Kerimov, who is not only a billionaire but also a Russian senator, was also targetting Brazilian international defender Dani Alves, who is currently playing with European giants Barcelona.

Local media claimed Anzhi would have to pay between €35 and €40m for the rightback.

Anzhi have on ly had one full season back in the Russian top flight but they have become major players

BERLIN: football/ BUNDESLIGA

ROME: football/ SERIE A

Schalke win with stunning comeback

SCHALKE scored four times in the last 35 minutes to recover from 2-0 down to win 4-2 at Mainz in the Bundesliga this morning.

Mainz had won their first two games of the season and the Bundesliga's other 100 percent record fell when Hanover conceded a late equaliser to be held 1-1 at home by promoted Hertha Berlin.

Borussia Moenchengladbach and Hanover lead the table with seven points from three games after a weekend in which the nine games produced an impressive 33 goals.

Moenchengladbach, who survived relegation by the skin of their teeth last season, are top on goal difference.

Bayern Munich, who thumped Hamburg SV 5-0 on Saturday, lead a pack of seven teams on six points.

Mainz were on course for another win when Austrian Andre as Ivans chitz and Colombian Elkin Soto put them 2-0 ahead after only 12 minutes.

Dutchman K laas-Jan Huntelaar followed up last week's hattrick against Cologne by opening Schalke's account in the 57th minute from a chance

selflessly set up by Raul, and Benedikt Hoewedes headed the equaliser seven minutes later.

Joel Matip headed Schalke in front following a corner in the 81st minute and Austria captain Christian Fuchs blasted in a free-kick in the last minute to

Milan gain quick Juve revenge

Results

WELL DONE: Schalke's Fuchs (third from right) is congratulated by his teammates after scoring — AFP photo

leave Schalke and Mainz both on six points.

Meanwhile, Sergio Pinto had earlier fired Hanover in front after 33 minutes with a 30-metre free kick which he drilled through a gap in the wall.

But with seven minutes left,

substitute Pierre-Michel Lasogga beat his marker to Christian Lell's cross to divert the ball into the net.

Christian Pander found the net with a late free-kick for Hanover but his effort was disallowed. — Reuters

Yesterday Mainz 2 Schalke Hanover 1 Berlin

4 1

Saturday Bremen Bayern Dortmund Stuttgart Augsburg Cologne

3 0 0 1 2 1

5 5 2 0 0 1

Freiburg Hamburg Nuremberg Leverkusen Hoffenheim K'slautern

FRIday M'gladbach 4 Wolfsburg

1

Bayern's Olic out for up to eight weeks BAY E R N M U N I C H a r e set to be without Croatia st r i ke r Iv i c a Ol i c for between six to eight weeks af te r he w as di ag no s e d with a partial tear of the right hip flexor, the club revealed this morning.

The 31-ye ar-old came off the bench and scored Bayern's final goal in their 5-0 drubbing of Hamburg on Saturday in the German league, but now misses Tuesday's Champions League playoff, second-leg

tie at FC Zurich.

T h e C ro at i a s t a r w a s diagnosed by Bayern d o c tor Hans - Wi l h e l m Mueller-Wohlfahrt with a partial tear of the tendon on Sunday evening, which will keep him out for up to

two months.

Olic has only recently got back to full f itness af t e r k n e e s u rge r y l a s t Nove mb e r for c ar t i l age damage and only returned to team training in July.

With Bayern holding a

since they were bought by Kerimov, who has poured money into the club.

Despite the dangers in Dagestan, where a low-level Islamic insurgency has made the republic very unstable, Anzhi have already managed to attract players such as Roberto Carlos and Yuri Zhirkov.

They play their home matches in Makhachkala but the players live and train in Moscow for security reasons.

Meanwhile, Makhachkala celebrated their impending capture of Eto'o with a 2-1 victory over Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Premier League this morning. — AFP

2-0 lead from the firstleg, Bayern stars Mario Gomez and Arjen Robben, who both scored in the rout of Hamburg, are expected to play in Zurich despite picking up knocks.

— AFP

AC MILAN gained swift re v e n g e on Ju v e ntu s with a 2-1 victory at the San Siro this morning to win the pre-season Berlusconi Cup, sponsored by Rossoneri president Silvio Berlusconi in memory of his father Luigi.

Just three days after having lost to their Turin opponents by the same score in a 45-minute match in the three-way TIM Cup — which Inter Milan won with their n e i g hb ou r s f i n i s h i ng last — Milan turned the tables despite missing several stars.

Ghana midfielder Kevin-Prince B oateng and veteran Dutchman Clarence Seedorf gave the Milanese a two-goal lead at the break, before Mirko Vucinic pulled one back in the second period.

Milan lined up with A nt on i o C a s s an o up front on his own due to an injury to Zlatan I br a h i m ov i c an d t h e absence of Brazilians Pato and Robinho, rested due to their participation at the Copa America.

T he d ow n s i d e for Milan were injuries to African pair Boateng and Nigerian fullback Taye Taiwo just a week before the new season begins.

— AFP

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

I would like him to go to Inter because they are a great team — Diego's father Pablo Forlan

NAPLES: FOOTBALL/ SERIE A

Messi to retire at Nou Camp, says Lavezzi

NAPOLI striker Ezequiel Lavezzi believes Lionel Messi will remain at Barcelona for the rest of his playing career.

Speaking ahead of the Gamper Trophy friendly b etwe en t he two te ams at Nou Camp tomorrow (4.30am), the Argentina international also hailed Jos ep "Pep" Guardiola's side.

Messi has already become a legend at Barca and Lavezzi believes his long-time friend is destined to end his career in Spain.

"Messi always asks about Napoli, but I believe he wants to end his career where it started — at Barca," Lavezzi told Corriere dello Sport.

What about the match?

Lavezzi expects it to be a good warm-up for their run in the Champions League.

"It will be a special game against Barca, but I would like to play them in the Champions League. The

Gamper Trophy will show us where we are in terms of preparation," he said.

Meanwhile, Napoli midfielder Gokhan Inler is excited about the clash.

The 27-year-old Switzerland international arrived from Udinese earlier this summer and after enjoying pre-season, is eager to gauge himself further against the Spanish and European champions.

"The game against Barca will be good and fascinating and it can help understand what we can achieve this season," said Inler.

"We are going to Nou Camp to play a good game and with the right focus."

Napoli are seen as underdogs, but Inler is confident his side will not fall easily.

"There will be many fans behind us. Barca have great players, but it's about the team. You can never tell in football, but even Switzerland beat Spain at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa."

sports

29

Heavy duty

MADRID: FOOTBALL/ PRIMERA LIGA

Extra burden for Falcao at Vicente Calderon

ATLETICO MADRID'S newly-signed striker Radamel Falcao indicated that his transfer fee puts additional weight on his shoulders.

The Colombia international joins Atletico in a €40m (RM196m) switch after establishing himself as one of football's most prolific strikers in two seasons at Porto.

Upon landing in Madrid, where he will be officially unveiled at Vicente Calderon today, Falcao said the hefty sum involved in his transfer was an extra source of pressure.

"I am thankful to Porto. I would like to thank all the efforts Aletico made for me.

This is a very big team in Spain and this is the most important league in the world," he said.

"It is a responsibility that they have paid €40m for me.

I want to return the club that trust and I hope I will meet all the objectives."

Together with Falcao was Ruben Micael, who also joins Atletico from Porto for a fee of €5m.

However, the Portugal international confirmed he will not have the chance to enjoy football at Vicente Calderon this season, as he

is set to be loaned out to Real Zaragoza.

"It is not a step back to go to Zaragoza. It is good for me to play in the Spanish league," he said.

Meanwhile, Atletico manager Gregorio Manzano was thrilled with their deal for Falcao.

Manzano, who took charge of the club in June, said: "I'm pleased to welcome a player of the stature of Falcao, who has proven how good he is at Porto winning titles and I hope that will continue with us.

"It is great news for the start of the season. I feel flattered to have him."

Atletico defender Luis Perea, a Colombia teammate of Falcao's, said on his club's website: "On a personal level he is a calm guy, hardworking, especially for the team.

"On a footballing level, the fans already know what he has done at Porto last season, and what he achieved at River Plate in previous years.

Today, he is our key player in the Colombia team."

Atletico have also identified Wolfsburg's Diego as a possible replacement for striker Diego Forlan, who is being linked with a move to Serie A giants Inter Milan.

The Brazilian playmaker has fallen out of favour at the Bundesliga outfit after upsetting manager Felix Magath at the end of last season and has yet to feature this term.

Atletico were thought to be originally weighing up an offer for Espanyol attacker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo but are now unable to finance a €16m deal for the Argentine after paying €40m for Falcao.

Wol f s bu rg h ave reportedly turned down a €5m offer for Diego, with the German club looking for any potential suitor to pay €10m for the former Juventus man.

Any potential deal may rely on Samuel Eto'o's proposed move to Anzhi Makhachkala, w it h Forl an on ly likely to join the Italian club if they receive an offer they deem acceptable for the Cameroonian.

FALCAO: Hopes to do well with Atletico

Mourinho not going to apologise

THIS IS WHERE I BELONG: Messi holds the UEFA Champions League trophy after winning the final against Manchester United on May 29 — GETTY photo

REAL MADRID manager Jose Mourinho is not going to apologise for his involvement in the brawl during the Spanish Super Cup secondleg against Barcelona at Nou Camp last Thursday, said his spokesman Eladio Parames.

The Portuguese tactician took part in the fracas in the closing stages of Barca's 3-2 win, ''poking'' his finger into the eye of Barca assistant coach Tito Vilanova.

Mourinho's actions were met by a storm of crticism from senior football figures in Spain, but he does not appear remorseful.

O n S a t u r d a y, M a r c a reported the former Inter Milan and Chelsea boss was ready to apologise, but his spokesman suggested otherwise.

"Jose will not say sorry and he is determined to defend Real," Parames told Ansa.it.

Parames also said Mourinho was provoked following "verbal aggres-

NO HARD FEELINGS: Mourinho (left) and Guardiola shake hands after the match — AFP photo

sions" towards him from the Barca bench.

Meanwhile, former Real general-director Jorge Valdano lambasted Mourinho for his involvement in the brawl.

"Let's just say that what happened does not exactly honour Real or Mourinho.

I am convinced no one is proud about what happened," Valdano told ADN Deportes.

"Mourinho came to a club with 109 years of history.

And he represents a club with a solid culture. The tension between Real and Barca is so high that everyone is overcome by the pressure."

30

sport

presstalk DAILY RECORD

Celtic hope to land Bridge BRIDGE

I love playing for Everton. I love the spirit in the club, I love the togetherness, and that's going to continue — Phil Neville LONDON: football/ premier league

Target De Gea Spurs to test United's shaky goalkeeper, says Bale

CELTIC have made a move to sign Wayne Bridge on loan from Manchester City to replace crocked Emilio Izaguirre. Bridge is not in Roberto Mancini's plans at City and is available after spending the second-half of last season on loan at West Ham. The former England star, 31, earns around £70,000 per week and the Scottish side would be willing to pay almost a third of that.

He is aware of Celtic's interest and isn't against moving to Scotland until January but would prefer to stay in the English Premier League.

DAILY MAIL

Toffees sweet on Benteke EVERTON are considering a cut-price move for Christian Benteke after the 20-year-old striker admitted he wants to quit Standard Liege. Everton were one of several clubs to have scouts watching on Thursday night as Benteke led Standard's attack in their 1-0 Europa League win over Helsingborg. Manager David Moyes, meanwhile, believes Everton are close to finalising a new long-term deal for Marouane Fellaini. Fellaini has been described as one of the club's "untouchables", Moyes said: "I think the chairman is moving much closer to agreeing a deal with Fellaini."

TOTTENHAM winger Gareth Bale warns shaky Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea they are hell-bent on adding to his misery when the teams clash at Old Trafford tomorrow (3am).

Bale, named as Professional Fo otballers' Ass o ciation "Player-of-the-Year" last season, also scored 11 goals in all competitions, and is keen to open his account in front of United's fans.

The Wales international admits he and his teammates will target the young Spaniard even if, ultimately, they expect him to become one of the best goalkeepers in the country.

"If any goalkeeper's having a bad time, you're going to test them and this will be no different," said Bale, brimming with confidence after Spurs' 5-0 midweek Europa League demolition of Hearts.

"I guess we'll be thinking we need to get our shots in against De Gea. It's obviously going to be nerve-wracking for him to go to United and be in the first team, but he showed at Atletico Madrid and with Spain that he's a world-class goalkeeper.

"In the end, I'm sure he'll prove everybody wrong and

De Gea: Must be ready for Tottenham test — GETTY photo

and hopefully it will continue.

I want to take little steps and to concentrate on my own performances at the moment and hopefully, those little steps will continue and turn into big steps and I'll get to my goal."

Walker, who had earlier received an England callup from Fabio Capello, is

delighted to be part of such an impressive display at Tynecastle.

"We passed the ball so well and when we get it going and the ball is zipping around, it's great to be part of that," he said. "Hopefully, we can take this form into United on Monday and who knows what we can do there."

Wenger won't quit as bid for Kaka in place

TIMES OF INDIA

Koln dismiss Podolski move FC KOLN'S director of sport Volker Finke has denied reports Germany striker Lukas Podolski is set to quit the club to join Turkish giants Galatasaray. The 26-year-old is under contract until June 2013 and with the transfer window set to close, Turkish news channel NTV has reported the German is on the verge of signing for Gala.

Podolski missed Koln's 1-1 draw with Kaiserslautern on Saturday with a fever, but Finke said he is not prepared to let Podolski go. "We want to keep Lukas Podolski, no ifs, no buts. I had a call from an alleged negotiator. The conversation was very short," said Finke.

be a superb keeper.

"United made some great signings in the summer.

Ashley Young has done well for Aston Villa the last three or four years and he'll be a great addition to their squad as well.

"But we're going to go to Old Trafford and give our all and test their whole team."

Meanwhile, Kyle Walker has taken the first of his ‘little steps' at Spurs.

The young rightback took his place in the starting lineup against Hearts. It was a typically all-action performance from the 21-year-old, constantly looking to get forward and support Aaron Lennon down the right as the Londoners stormed to that impressive win over the Scots.

Having spent last season on loan at QPR and then impressing at Villa in the Premier League, Walker's next target is to make the rightback spot his own.

"It was an important match (against Hearts) for me and hopefully it gives me a good starting position for the next game," he told Spurs' website.

"From a personal point of view, this is what I wanted

sure hurts: Wenger shows his frustration during Arsenal's loss to Liverpool — GETTY photo

ARSENAL manager Arsene Wenger insisted there is no chance he will walk away from his job.

A chorus of jeers rang out at Emirates Stadium at the end of their 2-0 defeat to Liverpool on Saturday, with a small section of supporters calling for Wenger to spend some money before being drowned out by those supporting the Frenchman.

Speaking ahead of a week in w hich Ars ena l t ravel to Udinese for a crucial Champions League qualifier and a trip to Manchester United in the Premier League, Wenger said: "I always feel under pressure, not more than usual.

"There is no chance I will walk away. I will continue to try to give my best for the club.

"Every defeat is a devastation or an earthquake in this job. We are very disappointed that we lost against Liverpool.

I feel the result is very harsh on us. The decider was the

sending-off and the offside goal.

"For us, it is important now to lift the players. Wednesday night’s game against Udinese is massive and of big importance to us. After that we play United. We play all the big opponents away in the firsthalf of the season, apart from Liverpool."

Wenger was tight-lipped on reports that midfielder Samir Nasri, who played for 90 minutes on Saturday, could stay at Arsenal after his contract negotiations with Manchester City broke down.

However, he said he had not yet decided whether to play Nasri against Udinese.

On criticisms from supporters about the club’s transfer window activity, Wenger said: "You want supporters to be happy but I think the target is to have a good team and good players. You can spend money and have a bad team."

Meanwhile, in another development, Arsenal aim to lift their fans with a sensa-

tional move for Real Madrid midfielder Kaka.

The People reported Wenger is plotting an audacious bid to take Kaka on loan from Real after key members of the Frenchman’s backroom team told him he must make a marquee summer signing.

The 29-year-old is available after Real manager Jose Mourinho told the Brazilian he was no longer part of his plans at the Bernabeu.

But the Spanish giants were initially only interested in selling the player.

However, an annual salary of around £9m, on top of a £30m transfer fee, has put off suitors including Chelsea, AC Milan and Paris St Germain, and that forced Real into a corner.

Now president Florentino Perez, who was instrumental in the £56m signing of Kaka from AC Milan two years ago, has agreed to sanction a loan deal — providing any interested party agrees to pay all of the player’s wages.

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

liverpool: football/ premier league

Enrique aims for lethal combination with Downing LIVERPOOL leftback Jose Enrique is hoping his growing understanding with Stewart Downing continues to develop to provide chances for the strikers.

Enrique was named as "Man-of-the-Match" in the 2-0 win over Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on Saturday, and spoke of his admiration for the winger, with whom he is looking to provide crosses for the likes of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez.

"Stewart is a good player who is quick and good with both feet," Enrique told Liverpool's website.

"I always felt he was a very good player when I played against him for Newcastle and I'm hoping we can play well together for Liverpool.

"I am hoping we can provide some good service for Andy who is a great English forward. In the air, he is the best I have ever seen and is almost unplayable.

"If Andy is 100 per cent fit and on top of his game then he will be a very important player for us."

Liverpool next face Exeter City away from home in the second round of the League Cup, and will look to stay unbeaten in the Premier League in their next game at home to Bolton.

Meanwhile, midfielder Alberto Aquilani claims he is close to a move back to Italy with AC Milan.

Aquilani spent last season back in his homeland on loan at Juventus, but returned to Anfield earlier in the summer.

He has been continually linked with a move back to the Serie A over the summer, however, with the former Roma man seemingly not figuring in Kenny Dalglish's plans.

Juventus declined to sign Aquilani on a permanent basis because of his price, while Fiorentina were only willing to sign him on loan.

Milan have now expressed an interest in Aquilani as they look to bolster their midfield options after being frustrated in their attempts to land Fiorentina's Riccardo Montolivo.

"I am close to joining Milan," Aquilani told Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Malay Mail Monday 22 AUGUST, 2011

Results

YESTERDAY Bolton 2 Norwich 1 Wolves 2 SATURDAY Arsenal 0 Aston Villa 3 Chelsea 2 Everton 0 Sunderland 0 Swansea 0

BOLTON: FOOTBALL/ PREMIER LEAGUE

Man City Stoke Fulham

3 1 0

Liverpool Blackburn West Brom QPR Newcastle Wigan

2 1 1 1 1 0

Fixture

TOMORROW Man United v Tottenham (3am)

Standings

Man City Wolves Aston Villa Liverpool Chelsea Newcastle Bolton Man Utd QPR Norwich Stoke Wigan Sunderland Arsenal Fulham Swansea Tottenham Everton West Brom Blackburn

P 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 0 1 2 2

W 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0

sports

We need a back-up player for Bobby Zamora — Fulham boss Martin Jol

L 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 2

F 7 4 3 3 2 1 6 2 1 2 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 2

A Pts 2 6 1 6 1 4 1 4 1 4 0 4 3 3 1 3 4 3 2 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 2 1 2 1 4 1 0 0 1 0 4 0 5 0

Leading scorers

2 goals: Aguero (Man City), Silva (Man City), Dzeko (Man City), Klasnic (Bolton), Long (West Brom), Suarez (Liverpool) 1 goals: Agbonlahor (Aston Villa), Anelka (Chelsea), Barry (Man City), Bent (Aston Villa), G. Cahill (Bolton), K. Davies (Bolton), De Laet (Norwich City), Doyle (Wolves), Fletcher (Wolves), Formica (Blackburn), Gamst Pedersen (Blackburn), Heskey (Aston Villa), Hoolahan (Norwich City), Jarvis (Wolves), K. Jones (Stoke City), Larsson (Sunderland), Malouda (Chelsea), Muamba (Bolton), Rooney (Man United), T. Smith (QPR), R. Taylor (Newcastle), Ward (Wolves), Watson (Wigan)

MANCHESTER: FOOTBALL/ PREMIER LEAGUE

Berbatov not for sale, PSG told

Mancini magic Big-spending City too strong for Bolton

BIG-SPENDING Manchester City showed their Premier League title credentials with a 3-2 win over Bolton at the Reebok Stadium yesterday.

Roberto Mancini's side are tipped to make a strong challenge for Manchester United's crown after splashing out another £50m (RM245.6m) on new talent during the clos e-s eas on and City's expensively-assembled side look in the mood to fulfill those expectations.

Goals from David Silva, Gareth Barry and Edin Dzeko — three lavish signings from previous seasons — maintained City's 100 per cent record as they moved to top of the table.

There was also a substitute appearance from Carlos Tevez, the unsettled Argentine striker who hopes to leave City before the transfer window shuts on Aug 31.

"I don't know how it finished only 3-2 because we had many more chances," Mancini said.

"I am happy because Edin Dzeko continued to score and Carlos Tevez played 20 minutes. Carlos is here and he will continue to play for us."

Mancini gave a first start to Sergio Aguero, but it was Bolton goalkeeper Jussi

Jaaskelainen who played the

minute as England midfielder

advantage two minutes into

PRESSTALK DAILY MAIL

Socrates warded in hospital BRAZIL legend Socrates was admitted into intensive care unit (ICU) on Friday in a Sao Paulo hospital with gastrointestinal bleeding caused by high blood pressure. The 57-year-old, who captained his country at the 1982 World Cup, won 60 caps in Brazil’s midfield, scoring 22 goals but was unable to lead the flamboyant 1982 side to glory in Spain. He also played in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico but missed a penalty in a shoot-out as Brazil lost to France in the quarterfinals.

Socrates delayed the start of his international career until the age of 25 so he could complete his studies as a doctor, and added a doctorate in philosophy in his retirement.

DAILY MIRROR

Capello: Wenger must spend

CAN'T STOP ME: City's Dzeko (left) scores his team's third goal — AFP photo

key role as City took the lead in the 26th minute.

Spanish midfielder Silva fired in a speculative shot from the edge of the area and Jaaskelainen made a complete hash of his attempted save, allowing the ball to spill through his hands into the net.

There was no fortune about City's second goal in the 37th

Barry smashed a ferocious effort past Jaaskelainen from 20 yards.

Bolton mounted an immediate response and Ivan Klasnic got one back two minutes later when the Croatian met Martin Petrov's drilled low cross with a firsttime shot that gave Joe Hart no chance.

City restored their two-goal

the second-half when Bosnian forward Dzeko deftly flicked the ball over Zat Knight and ran clear to drive his shot beyond Jaaskelainen.

But Bolton rarely surrender at home and Kevin Davies put the pressure back on City as he scored with a towering header from Petrov's free-kick in the 63rd minute.

— AFP

LONDON: FOOTBALL/ PREMIER LEAGUE

Howling start for Wolves MANCHESTER UNITED striker Dimitar Berbatov (pic) has attracted interest from Paris St Germain but manager Alex Ferguson does not want the Bulgarian to leave the English champions. "I had Ferguson on the phone but he told me that he was counting on Berbatov and that he was not for sale," PSG sporting director Leonardo told www. francefootball.fr after this morning's 2-1 win over Valenciennes. Berbatov lost his first-team spot to Javier Hernandez last term and has been overlooked in favour of youngster Danny Welbeck this season with Mexican Hernandez injured. Underachieving PSG were bought by wealthy Qatari investors in May and have embarked on a huge spending spree in a bid for titles in France and Europe.

— Reuters

31

YOU GOT SERVED: Wolves' Doyle is booked after scoring the first goal. Doyle chose to celebrate by taking off his shirt — GETTY photo

WO LV E R HA M P T O N WANDERERS, who won the last of their three titles in 1959, have made their best start to a top-flight campaign since 1979 with a 2-0 victory over Fulham yesterday.

They went ahead when Kevin Doyle finished clinically after riding two challenges after 42 minutes and they doubled their lead through Matt Jar vis just before half-time.

It was Fulham's first defeat in nine matches since Martin Jol took over at Craven Cottage but the Dutchman was keen to play down his team's involvement in the Europa League. " You c an b e t i re d i n October or November but not now, and that wasn't the reason," he said. "We gave the ball away too much in the first-half but played

better in the second, but Wolves deserved it."

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy said: "We did have an advantage because they played on Thursday and today we footballed them off the pitch."

In the day's other match, 10-man Norwich City were denied their first win of the season when Stoke City's Kenwyne Jones headed in a stoppage-time equaliser at Carrow Road to secure his side a 1-1 draw.

Ritchie de Laet had scored against his old club to put the Canaries in front after 37 minutes.

Stoke missed a chance to equalise when Norwich's Leon Barnett was sent-off for a foul on Jon Walters w ho to ok t he resu lt ing penalty which was saved by keeper John Ruddy. — Reuters

ENGLAND manager Fabio Capello believes Arsenal need some fresh blood in their squad but concedes it will be a tough task to bring in quality additions before the transfer window closes. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has plenty to ponder at present, but Capello knows it is not an easy situation for the Frenchman.

Asked if he thought Wenger should continue at Arsenal, Capello said on Sky Sports' Goals on Sunday programme: "I hope he will stay on, I have a good relationship with him.

I think he needs to buy some new players, some important players. But it's difficult to find top players at this moment because the best players are playing with important teams, teams who want to win."

THE TELEGRAPH

Salgado slams club owners

VENKY’S, Blackburn’s Indian owners, have grandiose plans to bring Champions League football to Ewood Park, but rightback Michel Salgado has told them to focus on the present. Salgado, who has two Champions League and four La Liga medals from his time with Real Madrid, fears for Blackburn after a dreadful start left them bottom of the table without a point. "We are talking about new signings but we need to focus in the games.

We need to stick together," he said. "We don’t know if signings are coming or any other players are leaving. We need to know that as soon as possible. It’s difficult for the manager to work like that."

Wenger’s no quitter

No way, says Jose

Arsenal manager will not quit amid jeers from fans after losing to Liverpool on Saturday

Jose Mourinho will not apologise for his behaviour which marred Real Madrid’s Super Cup match with Barcelona

>> pg30

LOCAL

Kunalan fires a salvo National and Negri Sembilan winger S. Kunalan oozing with winning mentality as injured teammates return for Cup action

Novak will be back

DJOKOVIC pulls out of his final match at Cincinnati Masters but vows to bounce back at US Open

>> pg26

football

Falcao’s time to deliver

Monday 22 August, 2011

Ten days left BOLTON: Football/ PREMIER LEAGUE

Mancini hopeful over Nasri move

>> pg25

TENNIS

>> pg29

MANCHESTER CITY manager Roberto Mancini remains confident of signing Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri before the transfer window shuts on Aug 31.

Mancini went public with his interest in Nasri during the close-season after City made a £25 million (RM122m) offer for the France midfielder, who is believed to be keen to move to Eastlands in a deal that would more than double his wages.

But City have so far been unable to conclude a deal with Arsenal. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger decided to play Nasri in Saturday’s match against Liverpool which sparked reports that Nasri’s agents were endangering the deal by demanding a £3 million fee for facilitating the transfer.

However, Mancini is confident Nasri will become a City player eventually. “I hope we can have the player in the next days. I don’t know what’s the problem. I hope this week we can have Nasri, but don’t know when. We have 10 days to the end (of the transfer window).”

Mancini was speaking after his side won 3-2 at Bolton Wanderers to secure their

second successive victory in the Premier League.

The Italian was happy with City’s attacking performance, which featured goals from David Silva, Gareth Barry and Edin Dzeko, but warned they will need to tighten up in defence if they are to challenge for the title.

“We played well,” he said.

“But we suffered untill the last second because Bolton are a good team who will always try to score.

“We can’t concede two goals like today. We need to pay more attention. If we want a good championship we should pay more attention in these sorts of situations.

“I want us to score 15 goals more than last year but we can’t concede more goals than last year.”

Meanwhile, Bolton manager Owen Coyle is convinced his side can recover quickly from the loss after giving a good account of themselves against the Premier League’s big spenders.

“We gifted them a couple of goals and that leaves a bad taste in the mouth,” Coyle said.

“But we’ll pick ourselves up. Our strength is always as a group and we showed that

that’s the way out: City are still hoping to conclude a deal for Nasri — AFP photo

when we picked ourselves up from two down and then 3-1 down.

“We’ve shown that whoever we play it’s certainly going to be a tough fixture for them.”

Meanwhile, Barry believes Tevez still has a future at Manchester City.

Tevez had publicly expressed his desire to leave City but a lack of interest from a number of clubs, due to the 27-year-old’s high transfer fee and wage demands, has prevented him from switching clubs.

“We saw last year how

much we relied on him, Sergio’s (Aguero) started on fire and hopefully Carlos can be a part of it too,” Barry told Sky Sports.

“He got a great reception from the fans and he did his bit. I’m sure he’ll get his chance.” — Agencies

MADRID: FOOTBALL/ PREMIER LEAGUE Atletico Madrid’s RM196m Colombian signing Radamel Falcao aims to earn his keep in club

Valencia agree Mata sale to Chelsea

>> pg29 PRESSTALK

Get well soon Doc Brazilian 1980’s legend Socrates warded with gastrointestinal bleeding caused by high blood pressure

>> pg31

new blue on the block: Chelsea set to sign Valencia winger Juan Mata for £26m — AFP photo

VALENCIA have agreed to sell Spain winger Juan Mata to Chelsea, the Spanish club said this morning.

“Valencia Football Club have reached an agreement in principle with Chelsea FC for the transfer of the player Juan Manuel Mata,” a club statement read.

“The agreement is subject to the relevant medical tests.”

The 23-year-old, also a target for Chelsea’s faltering rivals Arsenal, has 11 Spain caps and has been mainstay of the

Valencia side since 2008 with his speed and goals marking him out as one of Europe’s most exciting widemen.

Chelsea have signed Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku and Spanish midfielder Oriol Romeu in the transfer window as new coach Andre Villas-Boas looks to shine in the Champions League and snatch back the Premier League title from Manchester United.

Fans often bemoaned Chelsea’s lack of width last season

under Carlo Ancelotti.

Valencia, third in La Liga last term, were demanding around €30 million for Mata, according to media reports.

Meanwhile, Spurs’ boss Harry Redknapp believes Chelsea’s move for Mata is likely to kill off their interest in Luka Modric.

“Chelsea have signed him?”

Redknapp told Talksport.

“I didn’t know that. Well, I would think that’s the end of the Modric deal then, surely.”

— Agencies

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