Restless traders at council

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TRADERS who came early to Dewan Beringin in Taman Sri Gombak to book their stall lots for the Thaipusam festival in Batu Caves were furious with the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) for the poor crowd control.

Traders lined up as early at 8am outside Dewan Beringin to choose the lots and some refused to take up the offer saying that RM200 was high.

Later MPS reduced the rent to the original amount of RM150.

MPS had allocated 699 lots for the Thaipusam festival.

Vassan Chandrasekaran, 25, said he waited for two hours to get inside the hall and the queue stretched all the way outside the compound.

For aunthenticity: Council officers taking pictures of traders who are applying for lots in the Thaipusam bazaar.

“All those who are waiting to get the lots outside were in the dark as they were not briefed on the procedures.

“There was no proper queue outside the hall and everything was in a mess. The enforcement officers could not control the crowd outside.

“However, inside the hall the crowd was more orderly,’’ said Vassan, who is taking the lot for the second year selling music CDs and DVDs.

Another trader Kumar Vishnu, 28, said there was no briefing from the council until the people got into the hall.

“We have to be well prepared with documents and cash before we are allowed to enter the hall. I hope MPS will come up with a better system next year,’’ he said.

Compared with previous years, MPS has now taken pictures of each individual to prevent others from selling the lots for RM2,000.

There is also a place for those to get their jabs before being able to trade at Batu Caves.

MPS president Datuk Zainal Abidin Aala wanted to charge the extra RM50 because the council had to bear the cost of cleaning up, overtime for workers and stationing people at the area after the festival.

He said last year, MPS had to pay contractors RM80,000 to clean up.

“In previous years, we had people selling their lots to others and that is why this year we are taking pictures of individuals applying for the stalls.

“Those who rent out the lots will be blacklisted and will not be able to apply again next year.

“With this system, we hope that those who apply for lots are the ones trading there,’’ he said.

KL mayor: Shoddy patch-up work has resulted in potholes

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MOST of the potholes in Kuala Lumpur are the result of shoddy patch-up work by utility companies after digging to lay underground cables.

A study by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) found that 70% of potholes were due to continuous open cuts on the road followed by shoddy patchwork.

Kuala Lumpur mayor Tan Sri Ahmad Fuad Ismail said the road surface could be compared with the skin.

“Once the surface is broken, it becomes difficult to bring it back to its original state,” he said.

Trenchless technology has been identified as the main solution for the never-ending pothole problem and is expected to be carried out on selected roads starting next year.

Major problem: About 70% of potholes are due to continuous open cuts on the road followed by shoddy patchwork.

DBKL has since set an action plan to introduce the Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) or pipe-jacking method which only requires two cuts on the surface, launching pit and receiving pit.

This technology prevents open digging and also reduces the chance of damaging other cables compared with the open cut method widely used, which requires the whole stretch of road surface to be dug up.

“We have planned to start using the new method on the main roads in the city centre like Jalan Imbi, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Pinang by introducing common trenching which allows multiple utility lines in a single trench, thus reducing cost and the number of places in which cuts are made.

“Utility tunnel is also an option but it would be difficult to build because it requires closing at least one lane for construction work which would worsen the traffic situation.

“We have the technology but the cost would be three to five times higher than the conventional method and utility companies would most likely increase their service rates to cover the higher cost of maintenance.

Upgrading: The new double extruded kerb is designed high to prevent rubbish that has fallen into it from being visible.

“It is about time we switch our method for the better. Most the people resist change but they need to realise that the changes made are for the better,” he said.

Fuad said people need to look at the benefits of the HDD method which was also environment-friendly.

“Countries like Singapore and major cities like Paris and London are enjoying the benefits of going trenchless. In Malaysia, some companies like Gas Malaysia has already started the new method in Jalan Ampang and surrounding areas,” he said.

“We have a system for all processes including road work but many parties do not adhere to procedures. For example many utility companies do not apply for permits to carry out underground cabling work past midnight. We only come to know about it the next morning after seeing the patch work.

“We do collect a sum of money as deposit from these utility companies but how are we to know who are the culprits when they operate without our knowledge.

“However, we have been repairing and resurfacing all roads periodically as scheduled,” he said.

Fuad said DBKL was also studying on the road planning to ensure that the new projects did not replicate the LRT and MRT lines.

“Future construction of roads would be more in the outer parts of the city centre like the Duke highway. We want to avoid new roads in the city because it would not make a difference to the traffic congestion,” he said.

Fuad said DBKL was also looking into upgrading the road kerbs and maintaining its cleanliness.

“We are creating a one-and-a-half feet double extruded kerb in Jalan Bangsar, while work is under way at the Mahameru Highway to change the metal kerb wider. Other roads on the list include Jalan Kuching, Jalan Ipoh, Jalan Cheras and Jalan Duta.

“These kerbs are designed high to prevent rubbish that has fallen into it from being visible from the road. There will also be trees and shrubs planted along the kerbs.

“In the past, characteristics of plants suitable for the roads have been overlooked and has caused problems. For example the angsana trees show signs of weakness after 30 years.

“Now plants are carefully chosen to compliment the roads like the bushida, which could be shaped although it grows big. Flowering plants like bougainvilla and terra cotta will also give a beautiful view,” he added.

Fuad said to make Kuala Lumpur a liveable city people need a mental revolution.

“Children are following their parents who openly throw rubbish everywhere and into the drain, thus polluting our rivers.

“Parents should lead by example and teach their children on the importance of being an ethical and responsible citizen in caring for the environment and surroundings, as good habits are inculcated from young,” he said.

OCM: Time to review entertainment tax for bowling centres

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THE Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) and National Sports Council (NSC) feel the time has come for the Housing and Local Government Ministry to review the entertainment tax imposed on bowling centres.

OCM secretary Datuk Sieh Kok Chi and NSC director-general Zolkples Embong agreed that bowling should not be considered a parlour game any more.

Sieh said bowling was a regular contributor to Malaysia’s success in the SEA Games, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.

“Our bowlers have impressive credentials in the international scene and have been consistent in the World Cup and World championships. The success of bowling could not be achieved with the support from the bowling centres.

‘Bowled’ out: The exclusive report that appeared on Jan 31.

“Almost all the bowling centres in Malaysia have been actively involved in the promotion and development of the sport. Most of the current national and youth players were products of programmes initiated by these bowling centres.

“Abolishing the taxes will certainly encourage the bowling centres to play a much more active role in the promotion of the sport. People of all ages are involved in bowling. Even senior citizens and children are active in bowling. In fact I would consider bowling as an activity for the masses.

“The OCM hopes the Housing and Local Government Ministry will look into the plight of bowling centres,’’ said Sieh.

Zolkeples said the NSC considered bowling a priority sport and supported the Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress’s (MTBC) programmes.

“Malaysian bowlers have been winning medals for the country. Bowling centres provided opportunities for families to get together. The corporate world has also accepted bowling as a healthy outing.

“The government should look at bowling centres as a sport facility and provide them with incentives. Abolishing the entertainment tax will be the right step towards recognising and endorsing bowling as a sport,’’ said Zolkeples.

The MTBC had been fighting for the abolishment of entertainment tax at bowling centres for almost 10 years. The MTBC, through their secretary, Sidney Tung, had raised the matter with Sports Ministers — Datuk Seri Hishamuddin Tun Hussein (1990-2004) and Datuk Seri Azalina Othman (2004-2008).

Under the current tax system, bowling centres in the Klang Valley have to pay RM1 per lane per day as well as a fee for the bowliing licence and premises. Besides these costs, bowling centres have to fork out a big sum for rental, salaries, electricity, water bills and maintenance.

Electricity and water bills are at commercial rates. Bowling centre operators have been requesting for special discounts to be given under sports tourism or sports and recreation.

Surprisingly the government had classified bowling as a sport when the Sports Development Act was implemented in 1997. The government had also exempted tax for all bowling equipment, including pin-setting machines, bowling lanes and bowling balls.

Zolkeples said he would inform Sports Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek on the problems faced by the bowling centres.

“He can then raise the matter with the Housing and Local Government Ministry. The NSC is keen to help the MTBC and bowling centres on this issue,’’ said Zolkeples.

47 contractors in Ampang Jaya make the cut

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A total of 47 contractors have been chosen for cleaning work in Ampang Jaya next month.

Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) president Datuk Mohammad Yacob said each area would have one contractor for cleaning and solid waste collection.

“We received about 1,300 applications through open tender and still need one more contractor as we have 48 areas.

“For the solid waste collection, we have received 1,290 applications for 36 areas. The closing date for the tenders was Jan 26.

New management: Garbage collection and cleaning services which were previously handled by Alam Flora have now been taken over by the local authorities.

“Previously, we have 36 areas for cleaning and 28 for solid waste collection.

“From what we have seen since the new system was imposed, the services have improved as there are fewer complaints,” he told the fullboard meeting yesterday.

Mohammad said the contracts were for three years and renewal for another two years but if they failed to comply with standards, the council could terminate their agreement.

MPAJ has seven back-up contractors in case of termination of contract.

It was mentioned in the meeting that five Cambodian families living in the MPAJ council homes will have to move out due to misuse of the premises.

MPAJ had given homes to 20 Cambodian refugee families for about three years under humanitarian grounds through a non-governmental organisation’s application.

“The council homes are to be used as transit shelters only. We had given these people the homes out of compassion.

“But some of them do not pay rent and sub-let it to others. We have identified the people and given them notice to move out. We have to do this because in case disaster strikes, we will need to use the council homes,” he said.

Bad roads driving parents up the wall

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DRIVING on the uneven and dusty road to school daily has been a normal routine for teachers and staff of the Real Schools’ Cahaya campus in Section U9, Shah Alam.

For more than a year, the road in front of their school was being used by cement mixers and lorries carrying construction material to a site not far from the school.

The Jalan Merah Saga U9/5, which was once used only by those going to the school and residents living nearby, had since been filled with potholes and stones which had fallen from the trucks passing by.

Real Education Group communication executive Jason Teo said it was like driving on an off-road area.

He added that the heavy vehicles also used the road during peak hours, giving parents and residents a nightmare.

A tight squeeze: Parents waiting to pick up their children have to squeeze their way through with trucks and cement mixers.

“We have asked the developer to not use the road between 2.40pm and 4pm until school is over,” he said, adding that cement spillage from the trucks had also hardened thus making certain stretches uneven.

However, the lorries continue to use the road during those hours and often causing congestion.

To make matters worse, the canteen tables and chairs are covered with dust from the passing lorries.

“Our students who need to attend sports practice have no choice but to bear with the air pollution,” said Teo.

Initially, the school had expected the developer to use trucks with high-pressure water jets to clean the road in front of the school at the end of each day to prevent the area from being dusty.

Since July 2010, the school authorities have met the developers on several occasions to air their grievances, however, no agreement had been reached.

The only immediate measure taken by the developer was to patch-up the potholes.

Teo said the school had requested the developer not to use the road between 7.30am and 8.30am as well as between 2.40pm and 4pm.

“Traffic flow, especially after school hours in the afternoon, needs to be free from heavy trucks to enable parents to pick up their children in a safe environment,” he said.

They had also asked for a site staff to be stationed near the school’s main gate and another to clear the stones and cement spillage from the trucks passing by the area frequently.

The school also hoped the developer would resurface the road. Teo said the matter had also been forwarded to the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) and the local authority had promised to repair the road within a week but had since failed to do so.

He said the school was using its own funds to patch-up the potholes but with the rainy weather and the presence of heavy vehicles had made the task a tough one.

Recently, about 300 parents and teachers signed a petition against the developer.

When contacted, MBSA public relations officer Shahrin Ahmad said they were aware of the issue and would conduct a follow up with both the developer and the school soon.

Omega launches Seamaster Planet Ocean collection

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SWISS luxury watch manufacturer Omega launched their Seamaster Planet Ocean collection at The Saujana Hotel, Kuala Lumpur where guests were given a peek at the exquisite timepieces.

“Omega’s Seamaster Planet Ocean timepieces are at the forefront of divers’ watches. We were also the ones who launched the world’s first diver’s watch, which was the Omega Marine in 1932.

“It is through this that we have a close relationship with sea adventurers and marine explorers,” said Omega South-East Asia vice-president David Ponzo.

Hong Kong actor/producer and Omega ambassador Simon Yam made an appearance at the event. Guests were treated to a cocktail reception by the pool and the unveiling of Omega’s Seamaster Planet Ocean range of watches.

Stylish: Yam (right) and Ponzo posing with their Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean timepieces.

“I have been the Omega ambassador for 14 years and it has brought me to so many countries. I had the honour of meeting Nicole Kidman (who is also an Omega ambassador) in Hong Kong last year.

“What I love most about the Omega brand is its functionality and style. Omega is constantly changing to be more innovative and new, which is very inspiring,” said Yam, who is the owner of 60 Omega watches.

Needless to say, the Planet Ocean Seamaster series of watches are Yam’s favourite.

“It is a good watch to travel with,” he added.

The watches in the Omega’s Seamaster Planet Ocean collection have been held in equally high regard for their professional divers’ features, their style and their innovative co-axial technology since they were introduced in 2005.

Exquisite: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Co-Axial Chronometer.

Omega has upgraded the entire family and each of the new Planet Oceans is equipped with one of the brand’s revolutionary family of in-house co-axial calibres — the 8500/8501, the 8520/8521 or the new 9300 chronograph.

The movements also have the Si 14 silicon balance spring and the combination is so stable and reliable that Omega offers all of the new Planet Ocean watches with a full four-year warranty.

Like every Planet Ocean, the new watches are ready for underwater adventure and are equipped with unidirectional rotating bezels, helium escape valves and water resistance to 60 bar/600m/2,000ft.

The applied indexes on the dials of the watches in the new Planet Ocean family are coated with white Super-LumiNova emitting a blue light as are the polished, facetted rhodium-plated hands. The exception is the minute hand, which emits a green light, as does the dot on the diving bezel. This feature makes it easy for divers to keep track of their underwater time at a glance.

The Seamaster Planet Ocean 45.50mm Titanium Liquidmetal® Chronograph

One of the stars of the new Planet Ocean collection is distinguished by its unusual mix of new materials. Its 45.50mm case is made of grade 5 titanium. It means that this very lightweight element has been alloyed with small amounts of aluminium and vanadium and is particularly hard.

It has a striking blue ceramic bezel whose scaling and numbers are made of zirconium-based alloy called Liquidmetal.

Omega was the first watchmaker to blend ceramic and Liquidmetal in 2009 when it released a limited edition Seamaster with a black ceramic dial and the unique alloy.

The union of blue ceramics and Liquidmetal in the new Planet Ocean model is another world premiere. The hardness of the materials means that these two innovative materials will maintain their appearance indefinitely.

The timepiece is presented on a blue integrated rubber strap that complements the blue ceramic bezel. It is also available with a titanium bracelet. It is also equipped with a Si 14 silicon balance spring.

The Seamaster Planet Ocean 42.00mm - Calibre 8500

The Seamaster Planet Ocean 42.00mm divers’ watch is also available with a stainless steel case and a number of configurations as well as powered by the Omega Co-Axial calibre 8500 and is equipped with a Si 14 silicon balance spring. The most luxurious has a diamond-paved bezel set with 42 diamonds weighing a total of 2.14 carats and a white lacquered dial. It is also available with a broad selection of bezels including matt orange aluminium or black or white ceramic.

The Seamaster Planet Ocean 37.50mm - Calibre 8520

There are also 37.50mm Planet Ocean wristwatches in stainless steel, powered by the Co-Axial calibre 8520 and available in a range of appealing models. They are equipped with a Si 14 silicon balance spring.

They come with either black or white ceramic bezel that glistens with 42 diamonds with a weight of 1.55 carats.

The selection of straps includes a choice of black or white integrated leather.

The 37.50mm Planet Ocean watches in stainless steel are also available with bracelets in the same metal.

Beh: Palm oil brings out flavour of ingredients

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PALM oil is slowly changing its less favourable perception to one that signifies an overall better choice in the kitchen, where it is most commonly used as cooking oil.

Derived from the pulp of the oil palm fruit, palm oil — like all vegetable oils — is cholesterol-free.

Since palm oil is semi-solid at room temperature, a simple fractionation process is required to separate it into liquid (olein) and solid (stearin) parts. The palm oil that is widely sold in the market as cooking oil is actually olein.

Celebrity chef and cookbook author Amy Beh who has been using palm oil as cooking oil at home for many years, believes it to be a better choice overall.

Doing it right: Beh (right) cooking up a storm in the D’Umami Station during a workshop while showcasing her favourite oil to use in the kitchen, palm oil.

“I find that by using palm oil, I am able to carry out deep-frying three or four times more using the same batch of oil before I need to change it. It is also a healthier choice and brings out the flavour of the ingredients,” she said.

Beh also finds that food is less oily when she uses palm oil to cook. Cleaning up the kitchen becomes easier as well because palm oil produces less residue and smoke.

Palm oil’s balanced content of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids makes it less prone to oxidation when frying at a prolonged high temperature.

This is cost-saving to housewives as the oil lasts longer in the kitchen compared to other vegetable oils like soyabean, corn and canola.

Palm oil is also rich in tocotrienols, another type of antioxidant Vitamin E.

Fresh: This brightly coloured dish is Beh’s “Fortune in Abundance” that features oysters and scallops amidst the mushrooms and baby bok choy.

Research has shown that Vitamin E tocotrienols are more potent than Vitamin E tocopherols in fighting against ageing and inhibiting certain types of cancer.

Another type of cooking oil in the market is red palm oil. Red palm oil has a naturally reddish colour due to its high content of beta-carotenes, the same substance that gives carrots and papayas their hue.

Once consumed, beta-carotene is converted to antioxidant Vitamin A in the body. Like olein, it also contains Vitamin E tocotrienols.

Healthier choice: Participants enjoying the yummy goodness of palm oil through the dishes Beh prepared during the workshop.

During a recent cooking workshop with Beh, participants were exposed to the goodness of palm oil and many gained a different point of view about the oil.

“I learnt many new and positive things about palm oil that I never knew before,” said Mary Stuart, 52, a retailer, adding that she would consider using it to cook with in future.

Alice Aruthan, 59, who works as a general secretary, also said the workshop opened her eyes to the benefits of using palm oil.

Both were intrigued by the dishes Beh had cooked using palm oil such as the Fiery Dragon, Fortune in Abundance and Prosperity Yee Sang.

Hugel continues family’s wine business

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BORN into a wine-producing family, Hugel & Fils director Etienne Hugel grew up in a house overlooking the vineyard.

“The Hugel family have run the company since 1639 and my brothers and I are the 12th generation who are continuing this family legacy,” said the bubbly 53-year-old who was recently in Malaysia to promote the French wine brand.

He was the special guest at a Hugel Wine Dinner at the Shang Palace restaurant in Shangri-La Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Hugel said growing up within the wine-making industry, he was very comfortable with the whole process and decided that he wanted to be part of the family business.

“None of us were ever forced to join even though we were born into the family. It is very important to pick those who are interested and competent to take over the business. Even I would never make my children join the business if they’re not interested.

Hugel: The Hugel family has run the company since 1639.

“Fortunately for me, my daughter Charlotte is only 20 and she just can’t wait to get into the business. It’s exciting for me because this girl can sell refrigerators to the Eskimos,” said Hugel with a laugh.

The Hugel estate is situated in Alsace, a region with one of the driest micro-climates in France.

“It’s located at about an equal distance between Champagne and Burgundy. There is a patchwork of soil there so we have about eight variety of grapes,” he said.

While he is more involved in the day-to-day running of the business, Hugel still helps out during the harvesting season, the busiest time in a vineyard.

“I leave the wine-making to my brother but I’ll always be there during harvest. I have not missed a single vintage,” he said proudly.

Coming from a family with a long tradition in the wine business, Hugel said he had been exposed to Asian food and loved spicy food.

Nice combination: The savoury Double-boiled Fish Maw with Supreme Chicken Soup paired with Hugel Riesling.

“I’ve always been fascinated by Asian cultures. My children have been eating with chopsticks since they were six,” he said.

Catering to the Asian market, Hugel & Fil’s website (www.hugel.com) features several versions in Asian languages like Korean, Japanese, and even two separate versions for simplified and traditional Chinese characters.

“Our wines are well-suited to Asian food because they are as flavourful. We’ve been in countries such as Japan, Hong Kong and Singapore for about 60 years and in Malaysia for the past 30 years. If chopsticks could talk, they would choose my wine,” said Hugel, much to the amusement of the guests at the wine dinner.

He said that white wines, which were usually served chill, were well-suited for the warm Asian climates, providing for a refreshing pairing with flavourful Asian food.

The wine dinner featured a pairing of Hugel’s white wines with dishes specially prepared by the Shang Palace chefs.

For starters, the Shang Palace Trio Hot Dish Combination was paired with the Hugel Gentil, the only wine in the label that is made from a blend of grapes.

The savoury Double-boiled Fish Maw with Supreme Chicken Soup was then paired with the Hugel Riesling.

The Wok-fried Diced Beef with Goose Liver and Basil Leaf was a flavourful creation and complemented the aromatic Hugel Gewurztraminer.

As guests tucked into the fine dishes, Hugel described wine as being the best “social lubricant”, oiling together human characters.

“Wine brings people together. When it’s good it makes people happier,” said Hugel as he called for a toast.

KidZania gets additional corporate partners ahead of opening

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THEMED Attractions recently welcomed KidZania Kuala Lumpur’s newest batch of corporate partners for the year — Airtime Management & Programming Sdn Bhd (AMP), Allianz General Insurance Company, Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia Bhd, A. Clouet & Co (KL) Sdn Bhd (Ayam Brand), Kraft Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Mini Melts (M) Sdn Bhd, Plaza Premium Lounge Management Ltd and Sushi Kin Sdn Bhd to the educational and entertainment theme park, with a total partnership value of more than RM6mil.

The rolling out of these new partnerships will see vibrant, new additions to KidZania Kuala Lumpur which will be opening its doors to the public on Feb 28.

In particular, these partners will be establishing a cooking school, a biscuit-making factory, ice cream factory and sushi bar in the food and beverage sector as well as a radio station and insurance company, hence creating interest in these professions.

The introduction of Plaza Premium Lounge Management Ltd as a corporate partner specifically will see the addition of the Parents’ Lounge, which serves as an area where parents can relax and enjoy some quiet time while their children have fun in KidZania.

All in a row: KidZania Mascots with the representatives of the indoor educational and entertainment theme park’s latest corporate partners.

The Parents’ Lounge is also equipped with TV and Wi-Fi for their added enjoyment.

These corporate partners will add more depth and a sense of realism to children’s experiences in the educational and entertainment theme park.

With the corporate partners lending their expertise and knowledge in their respective industries, KidZania will serve as a platform to kick-start the career aspirations of children and bring them a step closer to determining their future ambitions and what they hope to be when they grow up.

Themed Attractions and Resorts Sdn Bhd managing director and chief executive officer Tunku Datuk Ahmad Burhanuddin said: “KidZania is unique as it is the first indoor educational and entertainment theme park in Malaysia that is scaled down to a child’s size, with its own economy.

“Children are the key to the future and KidZania together with our corporate partners will be integral in shaping the future generation of children to be independent, confident and creative by enabling them to explore their interests and discover their talents.

“There are 90 role-playing professions for children to choose from 60 establishments here at KidZania Kuala Lumpur.”

Representing their respective companies for the signing of documents were AMP executive director Datuk Borhanuddin Osman; Allianz General Insurance CEO Zakri Khir, Allianz Life Insurance Malaysia CEO Jens Reisch, A. Clouet & Co managing director Ting Seng Hee, Kraft Malaysia head of biscuits Julie Chen, Mini Melts operations manager Woon Chien Ping, Plaza Premium Lounge Management director Song Kok Full and Sushi Kin executive director Law Hwee Ching.

Parents can look forward to the many role-playing activities that their children can take part in, among them, the role of the firefighter, pilot, journalist and fashion designer, which will enhance their children’s developmental growth, inspire creative thinking skills and inculcate soft skills in children.

These role-playing activities establish a platform for children to learn values of teamwork, cooperation and dedication and empower children to be themselves and learn and play in a fun, conducive environment.

“We are very passionate about the KidZania brand. Its strength lies in the ability to educate and at the same time provide children the opportunity to meet new friends and enjoy themselves.

“We are pleased to announce that KidZania will be officially opening its doors to the public on Feb 28, and we are looking forward to sharing the KidZania experience with children and their families,” added Burhanuddin.

The new corporate partners will join existing partners, bringing the total number of partnerships to 27.

The others include Air Asia Bhd, Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, Celcom Axiata Bhd, CIMB Group, F&N Beverages Marketing Sdn Bhd, Honda Malaysia, KPJ Healthcare Bhd, Sony (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Pos Malaysia Bhd, Dell, Telekom Malaysia and Nippon Paint Malaysia.

KidZania, a joint development by Themed Attractions and Boustead Group will occupy approximately 80,000 sq ft in the Curve NX and is expected to attract over 500,000 visitors annually.

Photography exhibition captures Malaysia through 40 years at Galeri Petronas

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LOOKING at an old photographs brings flashes of memories, be it pleasant or otherwise. It pulls you back into that moment, enabling you to relive the experience like it was just yesterday.

The exhibition, “Capturing Malaysia through the Years — 40 Years of Press Photography” launched at Galeri Petronas recently does just that, featuring 54 photographs plucked from Hotshots (a newly-released photo book of iconic photographs by The Star’s photo team).

Petronas corporate strategic planning vice-president Md Arif Mahmood said the exhibition creatively documented the story of Malaysia’s development, in line with Petronas’ continuous effort in supporting, creating and promoting accessible platforms of expression for the Malaysian art fraternity.

“Photographers are artists themselves and the masterminds who represent realities in an innovative form that helps convey the messages to all.

Creative: Saito College School of Design students with their freestyle art made of fun cut-outs from The Star newspaper.

“Without them, stories will be devoid of life, colour and depth.

“It provides a rich sensory experience for visitors, coupled with a nostalgic feel on the nation’s journey towards progress.

Hopefully, the works featured will prompt us to reflect and encourage many to pursue greater growth for our country and people alike,” he said.

Star Publications (M) Bhd group managing director and CEO Ho Kay Tat said Hotshots was created to pay tribute to the press photographers — many of whom were award-winning — to recognise the significant role they have played in the success of The Star, as well as in documenting local and world history through images.

“Journalism as a career is challenging and rewarding at the same time. The task of seeking newsworthy stories while at the same time ensuring the reporting is accurate and succinct is a daily struggle.

Up close: (from left) Wong Ee Ching, 22, and Sharmilla Mahagana, 21, looking at a photo on display at Galeri Petronas after the launch of ‘Capturing Malaysia through the Years — 40 Years of Press Photography’.

“Similarly, press photographers are continually tasked with the challenge of producing attention-grabbing images and at the same time eschewing any bias.

“As a newspaper man myself, I can certainly appreciate these unsung heroes in bringing life to the stories that may at times be lost in words,” he said.

The exhibition is divided into four parts — Newsmakers, Conflicts and Disasters, Sports and Arts, and Society. Two walls have also been dedicated to Saito College School of Design students’ to showcase their artwork made from fun cut-outs from The Star old newspapers and doodles.

A series of public programmes have been planned at the gallery in conjunction with the exhibition. Free programmes include curatorial walk-throughs with Angelina Chong which will be held on Feb 4, Feb 18 and March 10 at 11am and a photography talk by The Star photographer Glenn Guan at 10am on Mar 3.

There will also be two workshops held during the school holidays to teach students how to create polished movies with smartphones (March 13) and lomography (March 15).

It is open to those aged nine to 14 years old, with a fee of RM25 each.

The exhibition runs until March 18.

Galeri Petronas is located at Level 3, Suria KLCC. It is open every day from 10am until 8pm, except Mondays. Admission is free.

Hotel staff give blood and help out at charity home

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SUMMIT Hotel Subang USJ organised a blood donation drive in collaboration with the National Blood Bank to overcome shortage of blood supply before the Chinese New Year.

Fifty employees and frequent donors registered as blood donors during the campaign.

The campaign gave hotel employees the opportunity to do their bit for charity.

On Jan 20, in conjunction with Chinese New Year, staff of Summit Hotel Subang USJ spent their time bringing some cheer to senior citizens at Rumah Charis in Puchong.

For a good year: Summit Hotel employees having a loh sang session with Rumah Charis residents.

A yee sang-tossing ceremony was the highlight of the day. Besides bringing groceries needed by the home, each resident also received ang pow presented by Summit Hotels and Resorts Group general manager Lam Hin Choon.

All senior citizens and their guardians were treated to a sumptuous high tea.

The hotel’s employees also painted the kitchen door and did some house chores in time for the Lunar New Year.

The residents happily assisted the hotel’s staff to decorate the house with Chinese New Year decorations such as lanterns, pineapple and dragon ornaments.

Chef cooks six-course lunch for ashram’s children

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SUNWAY Putra Hotel Kuala Lumpur senior sous chef Ricky Narayanan celebrated the recent new year with the children of Sinthamani Divine Life Ashram in Jinjang Utara, Kuala Lumpur.

The fun-day themed Sinthamani Kids’ FunTastic Day started with games organised by Fusion Cuisine and Golden Route.

New Zealand badminton players, who were in Kuala Lumpur to attend a training camp, also joined the programme.

New Zealand national coach A. Thanabalan said they were pleased to spend the new year with children from the ashram.

What’s cooking, chef?: Narayanan (right) demonstrating his cooking skills to the children.

“It was a new and meaningful experience for our players. They enjoyed their half-day session at the home,’’ said Thanabalan.

“The children had a good time. After the games, they were treated to a six-course lunch prepared by Narayanan.

Narayanan said he was also from a poor family and had come up the hard way. “I wanted to spend the new year with the less fortunate children.

“Being a chef, I offered to cook some dishes for them. I am prepared to spend time with them in the future. I am keen to teach them some cooking skills,’’ he said.

Jagjit wants MAU and states to include 20km walk in their programmes

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FORMER international walker Jagjit Singh, currently a coach with the back-up squad, has urged the Malaysian Athletics Union (MAU) and state athletics associations to include the 20km walk for women in their programmes.

Instead of having the 5km and 10km walks for women, Jagjit, who had represented Malaysia in the SEA Games and Asian championships, said the priority should be the 20km which is a regular event in international competitions.

There was only one 20km walk event for women last year. And that was in the Malaysian Open in Kangar, Perlis. Of course, there was not much response to the meet.

In the SEA Games in Jakarta, Malaysia had two representatives — Yuan Yufang and Nurliana Mohd Rosni — and both were taking part under category B. The 35-year-old Yufang, who had dominated the 20km walk since the 1999 Brunei Games to the 2007 Games, was hailed as the favourite.

Bright star: Gie Chee (left) walking ahead of Mohd Khairil during a training session.

However, due to lack of competitions and training, Yufang failed miserably in Jakarta and finished a dismal fourth. She clocked 1’48:29 about 16 minutes slower than her personal best of 1’32.25. Nurliana could only manage a seventh spot in 2’03:42.

Jagjit said it was important for the MAU and state athletics associations to include the 20km walk event in all competitions.

“It would be good if the 20km walk becomes part of the Malaysia Games in Kuantan in July. We have a big pool of women walkers but they would not be able to excel in international competitions without taking part in the 20km walk regularly.

“Being a former walker, I understand the walkers’ physical and mental condition,’’ added Jagjit.

Currently, national junior Song Gie Chee, a 19-year-old pre-university student from Bukit Jalil Sports School (BJSS), looks like a good bet to spearhead Malaysia’s challenge in the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar.

Gie Chee, who won the 5km and 10km walks in the Malaysia Games in Malacca two years ago, said she was looking forward to representing Malaysia at the Myanmar SEA Games.

Words of wisdom: Jagjit (right) giving instructions to Mohd Khairil (left) and Gie Chee.

“But it will be difficult for me to evaluate my progress without competitions. Except for the Malaysia Games, there are no other major competitions. I am keen to defend my two gold medals in Kuantan,’’ said Gie Chee.

Gie Chee has a personal best of 25:43.53 and 53:43.59 in the 5km and 10km events respectively. To improve on her endurance, Gie Chee has Mohd Kharil Harun for company in training. Both Gie Chee and Mohd Khairil, under the supervision of Jagjit, train six days a week.

Mohd Khairil, who is from Kelantan, is a pre-university student at BJSS. He is also preparing for the Malaysia Games. He would be staking a strong claim for a podium finish in the men’s 20km event.

At the Malaysia Games in Malacca, the 19-year-old Mohd Khairil had to settle for silver and clocked a personal best of 1’40:00.

Jagjit said both Mohd Khairil and Gie Chee were dedicated athletes and committed to training diligently.

“They have shown their potential. It is our responsibility to guide them for international competitions. They will be taking part in local competitions which will give them the chance to evaluate their progress,’’ added Jagjit.

Gatorade gets bowled over by MTBC

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THE Malaysian Tenpin Bowling Congress (MTBC) have struck a deal with Gatorade as the official isotonic sports drink.

The deal was signed between MTBC president Datuk Dr P.S. Nathan and Permanis marketing vice-president R. Hemalatha recently.

Nathan said the tie-up was a perfect partnership between two world renowned entities.

“Malaysian bowling is of world status and so is Gatorade. The sport of bowling has indeed put Malaysia on the world map and seldom do the bowlers, be it men, women or youth, return without winning medals and our partnership with Gatorade is certainly going to enhance our winning formula.

Strong support: Nathan (fourth from left) with Hemalatha (fourth from right) with the national bowlers after the sponsorship ceremony.

“Our recent success at the World Women’s Championship in Hong Kong and the Jakarta SEA Games only underlines that our success is continuous. Besides, we have a stream of new talents surfacing through our development programmes where we give equal emphasis,’’ said Nathan.

Hemalatha said Gatorade was indeed proud to be associated with a world-class bowling team.

“We are indeed honoured to be associated with a winning team and together I am confident we can bring in many more honours for Malaysia.

“We are glad to come aboard in this partnership which will benefit both parties. The Isotonic Sports drink will indeed assist the bowlers in their quest for glory as it will help replenish fluids lost during the long hours of training or competition,’’ said Hemalatha.

Devotees out in full force to mark deity’s birthday

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WELD Quay in Penang took on a carnival atmosphere as the Hokkiens at the Chew Jetty paid homage to the Thnee Kong (Jade Emperor) in conjunction with the deity’s birthday.

Thousands of local residents and tourists thronged the waterfront area to observe the 105-year-old annual tradition.

Revered tradition: Devotees gathering at the altar at the Chew Jetty in Weld Quay to offer prayers for the Jade Emperor's birthday or Thnee Kong Seh.

A makeshift altar, measuring 28m long, was erected at the roadside.

It consisted of more than 70 tables and the large structure was dubbed as the ‘Gate to Heaven’.

Legend has it that back during the Sung Dynasty, the Hokkiens from the Fujian Province in China once escaped from invading armies by hiding in the sugarcane fields.

They emerged unharmed on the Thnee Kong Seh (the Jade Emperor’s birthday).

The clan believed that they were protected by the Emperor.

Giving thanks: Devotees kneeling at the altar to offer prayers on the eve of the Jade Emperor's birthday or Thnee Kong Seh.

During the celebration, an array of offerings was placed at the altar which was decorated with bright red candles.

The offerings included roast suckling pig, roast chicken, roast ducks, seafood, a variety of fruits, thnee kong kuih (peach-shaped cakes), mee koo (red-coloured buns), ang koo (red glutinous tortoise cakes), huat kuih (pink prosperous cakes), ngor siew th’ng (pink pagoda-shaped candies) and bee koe (sweet glutinous rice).

Paying tribute: One of the Chew families at the jetty burning prayer paraphernalia as offerings.

Chew Lay Loon, 51, who was present with her husband Seow Teong Seng, 59 and son Seow Heng Yew, 19, were seen placing an assortment of offerings at the altar.

“As far as I can remember, I have been doing this since I was a child.

“I keep the tradition running in the family and we come here every year to seek blessings for good luck and prosperity,” said Chew.

“The ngor siew th’ng is a must when we offer prayers to the Jade Emperor,” said Ch’ng Ai Tee, 65.

“As for the fruits, pineapples are usually offered as the item is known as ‘ong lai’ in Hokkien which literally means ‘auspiciousness (has) come.’

Annual ritual: The Tan family offering prayers to the Jade Emperor at the stroke of midnight.

Brothers Loh Chee Siong, 35, and Loh Chee Kwong, 24, also did not want to miss out on the celebration.

They were seen offering a thnee kong poh (offerings in the form of golden-coloured paper shaped like pineapples) at the altar.

Visitors and devotees were drawn to the five enormous leng hneoh (dragon joss sticks) placed in front of ‘Gate to Heaven’ structure.

According to the Clan Jetty village development and security committee secretary Chew Kok Wah, 44, the joss sticks were specially ordered from Johor, costing around RM10,000.

No expenses were spared for the celebration.

The clan spent approximately RM100,000 on it, which included the prayer items, the altar, the acrobat shows and a mask-changing troupe from China as well as fireworks.

Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng praised the organising committee for making the celebration a success.

Fascinated by it all were G Hotel’s general manager Peter Nast and his wife Christina.

“We’ve never experienced anything like this before, so it is a great way for us to soak in the local culture,” said Peter, a German national, who has been working in Penang for almost a year now.

Dragon dance troupe members from the Han Chiang High School also mesmerised the crowd with their slick moves.

“This (event) is amazing. The experience is priceless and I find it more interesting than Christmas,” said Rebecca Marck, 62, from Chicago, who now resides in Penang under the Malaysia My Second Home scheme.

Bonfire time: Prayer material and 'gold ingots' heaped up into a big pile known as kim tsua.

At the stroke of midnight, fireworks burst in the sky, enchanting the crowd.

The celebration then culminated with a bonfire of prayer paraphernalia and 'gold ingots’ made of joss paper in a mountain-like arrangement known as kim tsua (golden mountain).

It is also done as an offering to the Jade Emperor.

The Thnee Kong Seh is celebrated on the ninth day of the first month of thelunar calendar by the Hokkiens, who regard this auspicious day as their version of the New Year.

New Year joy for marketgoers

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MARKETGOERS at the Pulau Tikus market in Penang were all smiles when they received mandarin oranges, red packets and groundnuts from the God of Prosperity.

The other attraction at the newly upgraded market was a lion dance performance held to mark the opening of the market.

Busy scene: A crowd of shoppers patronising the newly upgraded Pulau Tikus market.

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the market was the fourth on the island to be upgraded after the Batu Maung, Air Itam and Cecil Street markets.

“The Penang Municipal Council (MPPP) spent RM877,754 to upgrade the Pulau Tikus market which had not undergone any renovations since 1955,” he said in his speech at the opening of the market recently.

New look: The retiled floor of the market.

He said the surplus of RM61.23mil in the council’s bud-get last year was being used to benefit Penangites.

The upgrading works at the Pulau Tikus market included retiling and rewiring.

“Besides that, the traders’ display shelves were also tiled and new gutters installed to prevent water leakage,” Lim said.

Nicer facility: The hand washing compartment in front of the toilets at Pulau Tikus market.

Five toilets for men and five for women were also built as well as a toilet specially for the disabled.

The Pulau Tikus market was among five markets which were earmarked for upgrading works under the council’s 2010 Budget.

Also present at the opening ceremony were MPPP pre-sident Patahiyah Ismail, state Local Government and Traffic Management Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow and Pulau Tikus assemblyman Koay Teng Hai.

Firm brings holiday cheer to the needy

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RESIDENTS of Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-Kanak Yee Ran Jing Sheh in Bukit Tengah near Bukit Mertajam, Penang, were not forgotten this Chinese New Year.

Staff from Coraza Systems Malay-sia visited the home and brought food items along with a RM2,000 donation.

Coraza Systems general manager Neoh Aun Soon said this was part of the company’s corporate social responsibility programme.

“We wanted to show that we care for the needy.

“We have decided to organise similar visits twice a year and do our part for the home and residents,” he said after the recent visit.

Kind gesture: Neoh (second left) and his colleague Mohd Noordin Ahmad feeding a resident of Persatuan Kebajikan Kanak-kanak Cacat Yee Ran Jing Sheh centre in Bukit Mertajam, Penang.

The home’s treasurer Chuah Kwang Kooi said the place had been operating for 10 years.

It currently has 62 residents.

Chuah said that the home depended on public donations.

“We need at least RM25,000 a month for smooth running.

“The monthly costs include RM1,600 for rent and RM2,000 for electricity and water bills.

“We also have to pay the visiting physiotherapists.

“We get quite a lot of food donations daily so our food bills are quite low,” he said.

The Coraza staff also visited Rumah Permata Cahaya orphanage at Taman Pauh Jaya near Permatang Pauh where they donated RM500 worth of food items and RM2,000 in cash.

The orphanage has 30 children aged between seven and 12.

Resort bags green award again

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SHANGRI-LA’S Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa in Penang has clinched the biennial Asean Green Hotel Award for the fourth consecutive time at the Asean Tourism Forum in Manado, Indonesia.

Proud achievement: Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa staffers posing with the Asean Green Hotel Award 2012-2014 at the resort's newly set-up bottling plant.

The award is one of six Asean Tourism Standards considered essential for helping the 10 members of the regional grouping be-come world-class, quality destinations.

The coveted honour is given to a hotel which is environment-friendly and adopts energy con-servation measures based on the 11 criteria and 25 requirements of the Asean Green Hotel Standard.

Among them were the environmental policy and actions for hotel operation, use of green products, provision for training programmes for operation on environmental management, collaboration with the community and local organisations as well as solid waste management, energy efficiency and water efficiency.

Only 10 hotels in Malaysia including Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa have successfully met these standards up to date,

“We are proud to be continuously recognised by the Asean Green Hotel Standard and such achievements further strengthen our motivation to operate on a greener path which benefits all our guests, colleagues and the community,” said resort general manager Elaine Yue on Monday.

She said the resort’s green ini-tiatives included the annual Earth Hour celebration and the setting up of the Turtle Eco Centre in collaboration with the Turtle Information and Conservation Centre.

“In the pipeline is the resort’s bottling plant while we also get our staff and guests involved in our environmentally friendly practices as well as take part in the annual International Penang Coastal Clean-up project,” she added.

Other green measures are also being practised in the resort’s daily operations to minimise impact on the environment.

The switch from diesel-burning boilers to heat pumps completely eliminated the need to use diesel fuel and this has brought certification from Sirim which acknowledges Rasa Sayang as a role model for energy conservation and energy efficiency practices.

Bagan MCA touched by vendor’s plight

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NEWSPAPER vendor Koh Yin Cheng, who has been suffering from ‘wobbling knees’ for the past seven years, badly requires knee replacement surgery on both knees.

The 54-year-old, who limps as he walks to sell newspapers daily on Jalan Raja Uda in Penang has been finding it hard to raise funds for his surgery.

Bagan MCA division Youth chief David Chua responded to his plight by sourcing RM14,000 from the 1Malaysia MCA Medical Fund for Koh’s surgery.

Chua said a private hospital had initially proposed to perform Koh’s surgery at the cost of RM40,000.

“But after I took him for a full medical check-up at the Seberang Jaya Hospital, we found out that the surgery could be done there for free.

“He only needs to pay for the equipment used in the surgery that cost RM14,000,” he said after MCA deputy president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai presented Koh a cheque for RM14,000 for the surgery at a restaurant on Jalan Raja Uda recently.

For your op: Liow (in red) discussing with Koh (second right) while presenting the 1Malaysia MCA Medical Fund cheque to him. With them are (from right) Chua, Bagan MCA division chairman Lee Chee They and his deputy Sum Yoo Keong.

Chua said Koh, who lived in a rented flat in Pangsapuri Mawar, off Jalan Raja Uda, was a familiar face in the area, as he had been selling papers there for more than 10 years.

He said that Koh, who was married with three daughters aged 24, 17 and 13, earned about RM1,000 a month.

“I will help Koh fix an appointment with the hospital to have the surgery done soon,” he said.

Koh said he was grateful to MCA and Chua for helping him.

“I do not know what was the actual cause of the injuries to my knees.

“But, I am looking forward to being able to walk properly, just the way I used to in the past,” he said.

Hawkers and sponsors urged to join charity fair

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MOUNT Miriam Cancer Hospital in Penang is inviting food stall ope-rators and sponsors to participate in its upcoming biennial charity food and fun fair.

Themed ‘Chin Ho Chiak’ (Hokkien for ‘truly delicious’), the fair aims to raise RM500,000 for the hospital’s Needy Cancer Patient Fund.

For a good cause: Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital aims to raise RM500,000 at the fair for its Needy Cancer Patient Fund.

Hospital Corporate & Communications Manager Jenny Ooi said the fair was an important fundraising activity, especially with the rising number of cancer patients seeking treatment at the hospital every year.

“Being a non-profit hospital, it is now increasingly expensive to operate a cancer hospital.

“With the increasing number of cancer pa-tients being treated in the hospital through the years, it puts a heavy burden on our resources and we therefore depend heavily on revenues generated from patients’ fees and more so on community support,” Ooi said in a statement on Friday.

She added that the Needy Cancer Patient Fund was set up to provide medical subsidies to deserving and needy patients.

“Despite escalating treatment costs, the hospital has always en-sured that each patient is given the best possible treatment option regardless of his financial status.

“Yearly, an average of more than RM700,000 is disbursed for this cause,” she said.

The Chin Ho Chiak food and fun fair is scheduled for April 15 at the hospital’s premises on Jalan Bulan, Tanjung Bungah.

Ooi said the hospital was seeking individuals and organisations to sponsor or set up food stalls, donate to the fair or assist them in selling tickets at RM20 per booklet.

All monetary donations will be issued with a tax exempt receipt.

For more information, call Mount Miriam’s Community Relations De-partment at 04-8907044.

Kedah raring for action

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THE Kedah football team will begin their 14-week long tussle for President Cup honours with a home match against Te-rengganu’s T-team tomorrow at the Darulaman Stadium, and four days later on Feb 6, they will take on Police in an away match.

Bring it on: The Kedah players posing with the team officials before a light workout at the Darulaman Stadium in Alor Setar.

The first round in the prelimi-nary stage will finish on March 19 and the second round will resume after a 10-day break on March 29 with another home match against Penang.

Kedah will round up their preliminary round matches on May 25 with an away match against Tengku Mahkota Ismail Sports School in Kota Tinggi, Johor.

Kedah are drawn in Group A with 12 other teams and will be engaged in 24 home-and-away preliminary round matches.

After the home-and-away matches, the top four teams in the group will join another four teams from Group B for the quarter-final knockout stage.

Kedah deputy team manager Azami Amat said the players had undergone a systematic training programme including physical, mental and skills training for the past month.

Getting ready: The team warming up with the balls before their friendly match against the Kedah Super League at the Darulaman Stadium.

“During this period, they were also engaged in friendly matches culminating with a match against the Kedah Super league team. They also played nine friendly matches including one against a youth team in Songkhla.

“We were able to rectify the weaknesses of the team during the friendly matches and the players are motivated to perform well this year.

“Out of the nine friendly matches, the team won four, drew two and lost three including one against the Kedah Super League team,” he said.

Prepping up: The boys doing some limbering exercises before the friendly match.

Azami added that the team had a number of players from last year’s squad like chief striker Hattaphon Bun An, Lew Han Hung, Mohd Aminuddin Azmi, Wan Mohd Asyraf Ali and Mohd Fitri Zaaim Amran who will form the core of the team.

“On paper, we have a formidable team but I am also aware that the other teams like defending champions Kelantan, Sabah, Johor and Sime Darby are capable of upsetting our plans.

“Our initial target is a top four placing in the round robin league and anything beyond that will be a bonus. The tournament is a long drawn out affair and all our plans can come to nought with injuries and suspensions of key players,” he said.

“The team’s performance in the first period of the preliminary round will be a good indicator of how we will finish the season. I hope they will live up to their pledge of one for all, all for one,” he said after watching the team go through a light training session at the Darul-aman Stadium in Alor Setar.

Last year, Kedah finished a lowly eighth out of 11 teams in the group with just five wins and four draws from 20 matches, scoring 20 goals and conceding 29.

This year’s team are handled by Mohd Taufiq Cheng Abdullah (chief), Izham Mustafa and Zulkifli Ismail (goalkeeper). Kedah won the President Cup in 2000 and 2003 and were semi-finalists in 2010.

The Kedah squad: Firdaus Che Ani, Zurika Muzafar Zulkifli, Mohd Farhan Aswad Badrisham, Hatta-phon Bun An, Mohd Ridzuan Rumlee, Mohd Helmi Akmal Eran, Anond Chim, Faiz Mohd Bandong, Mohd Shaaban Roslan, Abdul Halim Saari, Wan Mohd Asyraf Ali, Mohd Rijal Fiqry Yusoff, Mohd Akmal Chin, Osman Yusoff, Lew Han Hung, Mohd Arfan Rashid, Mohd Khidir Ahmad Muzafar, Mohd Aminuddin Azmi, Mohd Syamim Alif Sobri, Mohd Fitri Zaaim Amran, Wan Mohd Syukri Ahmad, Mohd Shazuan Ashraf, Mohd Fazrul Fazilah.

Team officials: Datuk Jeffrey Low Han Chau (manager), Azami Amat (asst manager), Mohd Taufiq Cheng Abdullah (head coach), Izham Mustafa (asst coach), Zulkifli Ismail (goalkeeper coach), Mohd Nasir Othman (kitman).

In a carnival mood

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A SEA of people witnessed ancient traditions being reenacted in an enclave steeped in Penang’s history.

The annual Chinese New Year Cultural and Heritage Celebration 2012 in George Town opened a window to the past and brought normally quiet streets to life.

Thousands of visitors had a whale of a time soaking up the rich atmosphere.

They took in a myriad of Chinese cultural showcases taking place on many streets, corners and alleyways, beginning from 3pm on Sunday.

The ‘dragon’ was ever present, weaving its serpentine glory over the crowd at several locations, as well as casting an imposing figure on the grand arch and main stage along Cannon Street.

Sparkling end: Fireworks bursting in the sky as the CNY Cultural and Heritage Celebration 2012 at George Town comes to a close

One particular ‘dragon’, accompanied by a ‘phoenix’, heralded the arrival of the night’s VIPs — the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Abdul Rahman Abbas and Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

The VIPS together with dignitaries of various clan associations and the public were entertained by multi-cultural dances and songs as well as Chinese orchestra, drum and opera performances.

A Chinese acrobat troupe also thrilled the crowd with their stunts.

Each street were devoted to one specific aspect of local Chinese culture and heritage.

Capturing a moment: The God of Prosperity taking a picture as he poses with Loo Peh Shuang, 32

At Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, chingay performers and lion dancers on stilts enthralled visitors with amazing displays of skill, balance and agility.

Chulia Street, christened as the ‘Native Place Region’, resonated with the classic notes of Teochew, Canton, Hainan and Hokkien operas, as well as singing performances.

Ah Quee Street, the ‘Street of Old Penang’, was tinged with nostalgia as demonstrations of traditional handicraft were held to show modern folk how things were done in the past.

Further down the same street, named the ‘Chinese Traditional Health Zone’, there were Tai Chi Quan and Qi Gong performances, along with a war drums performance and a Qi Lin dance.

The ‘Chinese Culture Zone’ at Cheah Kongsi along Armenian Street was declared the world of the Dra-gon King. Visitors there were greeted by bubble-blowing fish and sea creature figures.

Hopes for the Dragon Year: Visitors writing down their wishes and hanging the pieces of paper at the Make-A-Wish Dragon at Cheah Kongsi

People hung their festive wishes on a Make-a-Wish Dragon, sat on the Dragon Throne and witnessed an interactive procession of the Dragon King’s daughter’s marriage ceremony.

The Poh Hock Seah was transformed into a ‘Baba Nyonya Culture Zone’ in honour of the Chinese who left their homeland in the 15th and 16th centuries to make a living in faraway lands.

Those who came to Malaysia eventually integrated themselves with the Malay community.

People enjoyed a recreation of a Baba Nyonya marriage ceremony and demonstrations on kebaya sewing, Nyonya shoe-making, pantun recitals and joget sessions.

Visitors to the Khoo Kongsi came face to face with the God of Fortune and three little Fortune Dragons who went on a fashion parade.

Later, a drama performance called ‘Legend of the Dragon Inn’ kept the crowd entertained.

At the Penang Youth Centre, Human Chinese Chess matches took place, while Dr Sun Yat Sen’s base showcased an exhibition on the late revolutionary figure.

The Clan Houses along the same road erected a 3D Surname Tree, as well as an exhibition on surnames for those interested in their roots and origins.

Throughout the day, visitors took care of their hunger pangs at an assortment of stalls selling local delicacies along Carnavon Street.

The bash was capped off with a 10-minute fireworks display at the stroke of midnight, illuminating the night sky with brilliant colours.

The event was jointly organised by the state government, the Penang Chinese Clan Council and Penang Clan Association Youth Committee.

Hot rides ahead for motorists

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MOTORISTS driving along the shady part of Jalan Tun Dr Awang in Bayan Lepas, Penang will soon find themselves driving under the hot sun as more than 20 Angsana trees are dying or have died by ‘girdling’.

A check by The Star showed that the trees, some 20m in height and more than 30 years old, have had their bark removed from around the entire trunks’ circumference.

Girdling or ring barking results in the death of wood tissues beyond the damage. When the main trunk of a plant is girdled, the entire tree will die as it is unable to regrow and bridge the wound from below.

Engineer B.H. Ong, 44, said he noticed the ‘girdling’ of the trees when he was caught in a traffic jam on his way home from work one Friday.

Sorry sight: A dying Angsana heritage tree, which has been 'girdled' outside a luxury condominium project on Jalan Kelawei

“I then decided to come back a few days later to check on the trees further. I was shocked to find at least 20 trees which had been girdled.

“Some had already died. I hope that the authorities especially the Penang Municipal Council will investigate the matter,” he said, adding that some of the trees had also been poisoned.

Ong said he also noticed an “X” marked on about 15 other trees.

“I fear that these healthy trees are marked for chopping down soon. Many trees had been chopped down due to a housing project nearby.

“I have always enjoyed driving along this stretch as it is shady and the trees are nice to look at,” he said.

A heritage Angsana tree has also been found ‘girdled’ outside a luxury condominium project in Jalan Kelawei.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh expressed shock when told about the matter and said he would send someone to look into the matter as soon as possible.

Target: Two children looking at a tree marked for chopping down in Jalan Tun Dr Awang

“The state will not tolerate the killing or chopping down of trees. We will haul the perpetrator to court when we find out who they are.

“Under the law, anyone intending to chop down a tree more than 12in in width (even if it is in a house compound) will have to obtain a council permit,” he said when contacted.

The local authorities recently came under fire from non-governmental organisations and the public for doing a ‘hack job’ of pruning Penang island’s trees.

Malaysian Nature Society adviser Kanda Kumar said many of the island’s heritage Angsana trees are slowly dying, caused by the digging up of the roots whenever a pipe needs to be laid or a road expanded.

“The council should take better care of these trees as the island will lose its identity if the trees were to die. It will be a tragedy for all Penangites.

Penangite creates waves in Wales

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THE country’s first and only Malaysian head boy in Ruthin School, Wales, United King-dom, has pledged to scale greater heights after receiving an academic excellence award from Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

Among the British Council’s 11 full-scholarship recipients to the 725-year-old school, Daniel Law Min Ern was presented with a RM1,000 cash award by the Penang Government for his accomplishments.

The 21-year-old Penangite was the only Malaysian scholar to have received the A-Level scholarship in 2009.

The other students were from Hong Kong, Thailand, China, Argentina, Jordan and Vietnam.

“I dedicate this award to my retired parents who have showered me with proper guidance, loving care and discipline for me to become what I am today.

Diligence pays: Law receiving the Academic Excellence Certificate and cash award from Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng in Komtar

“This award will motivate me further when I study for my double degree in Bachelor of Science and Economics at the Australian National University next month,” he said after receiving the award yesterday.

Law said he was humbled by the state government’s recognition and was “ready to give back to society in future”.

The former SMK Chung Ling boy advised students intending to study abroad to be proficient not only in English, but also in as many languages as possible.

He said keeping abreast on world events and general knowledge, and having a positive attitude were important too.

“Whatever you do, don’t let your family, friends and country down.

“Balance your life well to avoid tension and stress,” said Law, who plays guitar and drums to destress himself.

Ride2Rescue cyclists to enjoy Penang’s sights on wheels

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FEELING well-rested and refreshed since their arrival two days ago in Penang, the Ride2Rescue cycling group will begin exploring the heri-tage enclave of inner George Town today.

The six cyclists, who made Penang one of their stops in their cycling mission across the globe to raise awareness on child trafficking, are looking forward to see more and experience Penang as it is their first time here.

Ride2Rescue is made up of John Clark, 26, Daniel Seehusen, 26, Aaron Turner, 29, Tim Holman, 25, Kathryn Audsley, 24, and Karina Ottosen, 30, who are cycling 26,000km from Lon­don to Melbourne. Audsley and Ottosen, who are also from England, joined the group in Cambodia.

They are also raising funds for hu-manitarian relief and development organisation World Vision Australia.

According to Parkoyal Penang Re-sort marketing communications manager Saw Wei Wei, the group took the opportunity to relax, visit the beach and spa (for the women), and enjoy the hotel facilities during their stay there.

Hello Malaysia: Ride2Rescue team members (fromleft) Holman, Turner, Audslay, Ottosen, Clark an Seehusen posing with the Jalur Gemilang in front of Parkroyal Penang Resort

“Tim told me that they also plan to check out the fishing village around Teluk Bahang but it will depend on the weather condition as they will be cycling.

“They would also like to check out if there are any mountain bike trails in Penang,” she said when contacted yesterday.

Saw added that the group loved eating the food in Penang although they found it to be a bit too spicy.

“I have also recommended that they try our local hawker fare.

Off you go: Sigrist (right) flagging off the cyclists during the Car-free Day in George Town

“The group also plan to do some shopping for new clothes to wear on their next journey,” she said.

“They will depart from Penang on Thursday to cycle to Kuala Lumpur where they are expected to arrive next Monday,” she added.

The group had already cycled 15,500km in over 20 countries ­ac­ro­ss three continents before reaching Penang where they will stay for four days. They began their journey on April 30 last year.

On Sunday, the riders arrived from Thailand at the Car-free Day zone where they were greeted by 300 members of the Rotary Club Penang.

In his welcome speech, club pre-sident and Parkroyal Penang Resort general manager Francois Sigrist said the club and resort were ho-noured to host and support the team of riders while they are in Penang.

He said donations were also being collected for World Vision Malaysia in conjunction with the group being in Penang to provide rehabilitation and support for children who are at risk of, or have been the victims of exploitation and abuse.

Cheque payments can be made to ‘The Rotary Penang Charity Founda- tion’.

Donations above RM100 are tax exempted.

Deity’s forgotten birthday

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MANY Taoists who observe the Jade Emperor’s birthday (Thee Kong Seh) are unaware of Thee Kua Seh (Fu Shen or God of Prosperity’s birthday).

Thee Kong Seh is celebrated on the ninth day of the Chinese New Year with prayers starting the night before.

Geomancy consultant Chang Kim Hua said Thee Kua Seh, which falls on the 15th day of the festival, is rarely, if at all, celebrated in the country.

“How we practise Taoism here is influenced by the very popular ‘Journey to the West’ folklore where Thee Kong is the highest-ranking god in heaven.

Giving Fu Shen his due: Chang giving his talk on Thee Kua Seh at Midlands Park, Pulau Tikus

“In actual fact, San Ching rules over heaven in Taoism though he is not as popular as Thee Kong.

“It’s perfectly all right to pray on Thee Kong Seh but please also do the same on Thee Kua Seh because both deities are of equal rank in Taoism.

“Besides, one can never have too much of prayer,” he said.

He was giving a free talk on Thee Kua Seh at Midlands Park in Penang.

Chang also pointed out that many who prayed to the Jade Emperor on Thee Kong Seh do not realise that the name etched on the red plaques used during the ceremony was actually ‘Thee Kua’.

He said it was extremely rare to find a plaque etched with the name ‘Thee Kong’ in the country.

He said the purpose of the talk was to raise awareness of Thee Kua Seh or it could be lost to future generations.

“Our ancestors who arrived here from China observed Thee Kua Seh but these days not many do mainly because they are not aware of it.

“When you pray to the God of Prosperity, it is for both health and wealth although people always associate him with money,” he said.

He said that to pray to Thee Kua, it was best to use fruit and dried vegetables as offerings.

“You don’t need sugarcane stalks,” he said.

Regarded as the ‘real’ New Year by the Hokkiens, the ninth day marks the anniversary of the Jade Emperor saving them from death centuries ago.

According to folklore, a cruel general ordered his troops to attack the people in the Fujian Province as the Qing Dynasty was taking over in China.

The Hokkiens, who placed their faith in the Jade Emperor, sought refuge in a sugarcane plantation and emerged unharmed on the ninth day of Chinese New Year.

To give thanks to the diety, the Hokkiens started putting food-laden altars along with red candles and prayer paraphernalia outside their homes for the Jade Emperor’s birthday.

Chang, however, opined that while the story was popular and has been passed down from generation to generation, research showed that the incident never occurred.

Token of appreciation brings New Year joy for MCA members

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SOME 200 MCA veteran members were all smiles when they received a one-off payment of RM100 during a Chinese New Year open house hosted by the Bukit Bendera MCA division.

Retiree Chan Fong Liang, 81, who described the payment as an ang pow, said it brightened up his Chinese New Year celebration.

“I know now that the party has never forgotten us,” enthused Chan who has been an MCA member for more than 30 years.

Chan’s wife, Lim Yeok Yin, 76, who also received a cheque, lauded the party’s efforts in taking care of members who have reached their golden years.

Bukit Bendera MCA division chief Tang Heap Seng said the one-off payment was to show appreciation for MCA veteran members aged 60 and above.

Smiles all around: Tang (second left) distributing the one-off payment of RM100 to veteran members during the Chinese New Year open house hosted by Bukit Bendera MCA division in Air Itam

“We hope this can bring more festive joy to the members,” said Tang at the division office in Jalan Sempadan, Air Itam, on Sunday.

Among those present at the open house were Tanjung MCA division chief Datuk Dr Loh Hock Hun, Tanjung MCA division election committee chairman Datuk Lim Gim Soon, Bukit Gelugor Barisan Nasional coordinator Datuk Koay Kar Huah, Komtar Barisan coordinator Loh Chye Teik and Bukit Bendera Wanita MCA chief Chan Lay See.

The MCA leaders later participated in the tossing of yee sang for good luck in the year ahead.

Reason for cheer: Chan and his wife Lim showing their one-off payment of RM100 during the Chinese New Year open house

Tang said the practice of tossing yee sang was in conjunction with the seventh day of Chinese New Year, which is also known as renri (literally ‘mankind’s birthday’) in Mandarin or yan yat in Cantonese.

A lion dance performance and karaoke singing sessions were held to entertain the guests.

They also enjoyed a buffet spread with a wide variety of dishes.

Beauty Lisa is also the queen of tweets

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PETALING JAYA: Actress Lisa Surihani (pic) remains queen in terms of Malaysian artiste popularity in cyberspace with 500,000 Twitter followers and almost two million Facebook fans, reported mStar Online.

The actress, who won Best Actress at the 23rd Malaysian Film Festival, said she would interact with and share her experiences with her many followers as a sign of appreciation.

“My Facebook page is a medium for me to share my career development while my Twitter account is personal, where I share my thoughts and life.

“I never expected I would be followed by so many fans. Whatever it is, I’m grateful that so many people are following my career.

“My work sometimes prevents me from always interacting but I update as often as I can,” said the actress, who will end her days as a single when she marries KRU director Yusry Abdul Halim in February.

However, the widespread growth of social media is not without negative elements as well.

Being a famous figure, Lisa has not escaped being a victim of identity theft but it has not decreased her number of fans.

Giving Lisa close cyber competition was actress Scha Al-Yahya, the star of the film Ombak Rindu, who took second place with 1,339,837 Facebook fans compared to Lisa’s 1,902,487.

Actor Awal Ashaari comes in third with 979,678 fans. He is followed by Shaheizy Sam (932,412), Diana Danielle (867,557), Farid Kamil (658,595) and Datuk Siti Nurhaliza (440,504).

On Twitter, Lisa tops the list with 507,813 followers with Shaheizy coming in a distant second with 347,501.

He is followed by Siti Nurhaliza (286,150); Scha (273,916); Awal (243,501); Diana (121,103); and Farid Kamil (48,636).

Festive spirit still in the air at Taman Free School

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SOME 500 residents of various races thronged an open house organised by the Taman Free School Residents Association in Penang in celebration of the Lunar New Year.

State Gerakan vice-chairman Ong Thean Lye and Datuk Keramat Barisan Nasional coordinator Tan Yeow Joo were the guests of honour at the event, held at the community hall at Block KG.

In his speech, Ong said that open houses were a significant part of Malaysian culture, with the practice adopted by all Malaysians of different religions.

“It is great to see people from different walks of life and races able to sit and celebrate the occasion together in harmony,” he said.

Earlier, Ong presented ang pow (red packets) to 36 children of the association’s members of ages seven to 19 who did well in school.

Keep it up: (from left) Tan and Ong chatting with the high achievers whose parents are Taman Free School residents Association memebers after giving out ang pow to them

The open house on Sunday saw long queues of visitors at the buffet table helping themselves to food such as mee hoon, fried chicken and pohpiah.

Hundreds of mandarin oranges were also given out to the guests.

Grandmother Normah Shaik Abdul Kadir, 57, was spotted at the event enjoying the food and festive atmosphere with her grandchildren Mohd Faris Ikhwan Syazwan, 12, Mohd Irfan Husin, eight, and Fariihin Husin, seven.

“I brought them here to expose them to the Chinese New Year celebrations,” she said adding that her eldest grandchild Mohd Faris was also born in the Year of the Dragon.

More commercial projects approved for Kota Marudu

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KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s northern Kota Marudu district is on track to become the economic hub of northern Sabah, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili said.

Dr Ongkili said the prices of property had increased by 35% in the last two years and the district would see the number of shophouses doubling in the next three years with ten more commercial development projects already approved for Kota Marudu.

“The lots for the five ongoing shophouse projects have been snapped up, showing that we are on track with economic and commercial development fast taking place,” he said during the swearing in of 18 district councillors whose tenures had been extended for the term Jan 1 to June 30.

Commited: The councillors, led by Mandut (at the microphone), taking their oath of office.

Dr Ongkili, who is also Kota Marudu MP, said the district was also getting more tourists and business people visiting, particularly with the existence of more than 10 public-listed companies involved in oil palm plantations in Kota Marudu, Pitas and Paitan/Sungai Sungai of Beluran.

“There is also an immediate need for more hotels here, at least of three-star rating in Kota Marudu,” he said in his address to the councillors.

He however said, the district needed to look into proper waste management and have wider roads to cater to the growing need of the people and business community.

Dr Ongkili also told the councillors to focus on ‘cleanliness’ in the district. This covers being free of litter, illegal immigrants, social ills and drug menace as well as having clean commercial businesses.

Tenures begin: Dr Maximus handing over the appointment letter to Mandut (right) at the swearing-in of the district councillors. Looking on is district officer Luvita Koisun (left) and district council exceutive officer Jaiping Minsu.

“The council can stress on social education as the attitude of the people will ultimately determine the success of our campaigns,” he said.

The 18 district councillors sworn-in were Christopher Mandut, Lu Kim Yen, Marius Masain, Webley Disin, Jamadil Idaron, Mairin Tutun, Hendrus Anding, Seah Yun Chon, Teoh Tian Ping, Al Malek Utuh, Jonan kk Gaul, Baintin Adun, Solupin Gintanga, Abdul Karim Kassim, Satria Abdul Karim, Elui Majingkin, Padis Majingkin and Majudin Gambus.

Earlier, he officiated the distribution of the RM500 Bantuan Rakyat 1Malaysia government aid at Marak Parak in Kota Marudu and at Matunggong sub-district.

So far, 4,000 people out of 6,000 applicants in Matunggong, excluding online applications, have received their vouchers, while in Kota Marudu, 7,000 vouchers were distributed out of 16,000 applications.