Sunday, August 31, 2014

Chelsea's Costa must respect opponents, says Martinez

Chelsea striker Diego Costa needs to learn to show respect to opponents after the Spaniard goaded Everton players during their pulsating 6-3 English Premier League win on Saturday, Toffees coach Roberto Martinez said.

New signing Costa taunted Seamus Coleman after the Irish defender's own goal put Chelsea 3-1 ahead at Goodison Park which prompted an angry reaction from a number of Everton players, in particular American goalkeeper Tim Howard.
"There are certain foreign players who come to the Premier League who need to understand the ethics and the culture," Everton boss Martinez told reporters.

"The behaviour in the British game is unique. The last thing you want to see is disrespect from a player to another player and I am sure he will learn that very quickly.

"There is a real professionalism and respect in the league so you can understand why the players weren't happy with that, in the same way as trying to buy free kicks with the way he plays."

Costa has been impressive in firing Chelsea to the top of the table after scoring four goals in his first three games since signing from Spanish champions Atletico Madrid in the close season.

But he has also been accused of gamesmanship. Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho thought his Brazilian-born striker was being unfairly targeted.

"To be chasing cards against a player who once more had good behaviour and was just here to play football is disappointing," the Portuguese said.

"At the end of the story, Diego is maybe the best player in the Premier League in the first three matches and he has two yellow cards - one against Burnley where he didn't simulate, it was a penalty, and one against Everton, when everyone was chasing him to get him in trouble. That is disappointing."

-rauter

Ex-Myanmar beauty queen stealing crown

Myanmar's first international beauty queen has absconded with her $100,000 crown after being stripped of her title for being rude and dishonest, organizers said Friday.

May Myat Noe's photograph was blacked out on the Miss Asia Pacific World website, the word "dethroned" stamped alongside her name.

"She thinks as long as she keeps this crown she's the winner," said David Kim, director of media for the South Korea-based pageant. "She's not."
Organizers said Noe had "lied" and proved to be untrustworthy, but provided few details.

Noe was not immediately available for comment. She planned to hold a news conference at a later time, according to Eleven Media, a Myanmar newspaper.
Hla Nu Tun, who initially acted as her unofficial manager, said Noe and the organizers had disagreed over who should oversee her career. Noe's mother wanted control but so did the organizers, she said.

A half-century of military rule and self-imposed isolation kept Myanmar contestants off the stage of international beauty contests until 2012. When Noe was crowned in May, it was seen as a new beginning for young, talented beauties.

Following her victory, the organizers said they would arrange singing and video deals for her. But they also wanted to change the 172-centimeter (5-foot 7-inch) teen's looks, Kim said.

One of the pageant's primary goals, he said, is to turn winners into regional superstars: actresses, pop icons, and world-class models.
It was decided that Noe's breasts were too small and could hold her back, and she accepted an offer of enhancements, he said.

"We thought she should be more beautiful ... so we sent her to the hospital to operate on her breasts," Kim said, adding that sponsors picked up the $10,000 tab, as they had for previous winners.

"It's our responsibility," he said. "If she has no good nose, then maybe, if she likes, we can operate on her nose. If it's breasts, then breasts."

Kim said that troubles started from there, with the beauty queen bringing her mother to Seoul for what was supposed to be a 10-day visit but stretched into three months.
___
Online:
missasiapacificworldstar.com/

PPS arrests wrongful, cops liable to be sued

The arrests of 154 Penang volunteer patrol unit (PPS) members including senior citizens and women were unlawful as the organisation has not been banned and could leave police open to lawsuits for illegal detention, several lawyers said today.

Executive director at Lawyers for Liberty Eric Paulsen pointed out that the authorities must go through the necessary process of gazetting the PPS as an illegal organisation — as they did with Hindraf in 2008 — before action could be taken against the organisation.

Paulsen said until this was done, arresting PPS members for participating in an unregistered society was contentious.

“The arrests are extremely doubtful because being a member of an unregistered organisation is not an offence,” he said.

Paulsen acknowledged that those arrested may be charged under the Societies Act were the PPS gazetted as illegal. “As for now, it looks like politically-motivated arrests and detention,” he told Malay Mail Online when contacted.

Civil liberties lawyer Syahredzan Johan similarly questioned the arrests, pointing out that the PPS being unregistered did not automatically render it unlawful.

“Unless an application has been made to Registrar of Societies and it has been rejected, then a society only becomes unlawful by an order of the (home) minister.

“Here, it does not seem that any of these circumstances apply to PPS. So they are not an unlawful society,” he said.

Syahredzan added that the police may also only arrest members of the PPS if they have personally been involved in crimes, rather than simply for being associated with the PPS.

He added that arresting PPS members merely for association, as he said it currently appears, would be beyond the powers of the police and leaves the law enforcement agency vulnerable to being sued.

Former Bar Council president Ragunath Kesavan meanwhile called the arrests this morning “unnecessary and unwarranted use of police power”.
“No need to be confrontational with a state government ruled by Pakatan (Rakyat).

“Would only confirm public perception of state instruments serving political interest of BN,” he said in a text message.

He also said the arrests may be challenged in court.

This morning, about 200 PPS members were reportedly arrested after taking part in a Merdeka parade in Georgetown, Penang.

Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar later confirmed that 154 Penang volunteer patrol unit (PPS) members were arrested for ignoring his orders to cease participating in the “illegal” group’s activities.
He said he had previously cautioned the group’s members of the consequences of continued participation.
Khalid also said the PPS members had allegedly flouted the law and set out to challenge the police and his orders by continuing with activities as normal.

The PPS became the centre of controversy after a 51-year-old man alleged that its members had attacked him.

This had led to an uproar with Barisan Nasional leaders urging for the unit to be disbanded while Malay rights group Perkasa also lodged police reports urging the police to investigate the unit’s activities.

Khalid subsequently declared the group illegal and said the police are investigating it under Section 41 of the Societies Act as it is not registered with the Registrar of Societies (RoS).

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng responded by pledging legal assistance to any PPS members “wrongly arrested” while serving with the unit.
The PPS was formed by the state government in May 2011 to assist the public in all situations including directing traffic, in times of disaster and to patrol the streets as a preventive measure against crime.

Currently, there are more than 9,000 PPS members in the state and the members have all undergone various courses that include first aid and disaster management.

-malaymailonline

Sarawak Stadium Fracas: Five Detained

KUCHING, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- Five youths were detained in the fracas that broke out at the State Stadium in Petra Jaya here Saturday night.



Kuching district deputy police chief (Operations), Supt Fauzilan Abdul Aziz, confirmed the arrests of the five men, aged between 17 and 20.

He said during the fracas, five policemen were injured, seven police vehicles were dagamed, while another police vehicle was completely torched.

The incident broke out at 11 pm after the Malaysia Cup match between Sarawak and Perak ended with a 1-1 draw, which also meant that Sarawak had been booted out of the competition.

Approximately 2,000 unsatisfied fans rushed onto the field after the game before burning flares and fireworks and threw objects at the police personnel on duty.

A group on men went causing damage to public properties and police vehicles outside the stadium.

The police managed to disperse the crowd and put the situation under control after 30 minutes.

-- BERNAMA

Strong showcase of patriotism during Malaysia’s national day parade

Malaysians from all walks of life demonstrated strong patriotic spirit to celebrate the 57th anniversary of the country’s independence at the Dataran Merdeka today (Aug 31).



Together they united with more than 14,000 people joining the parade in a show of love for the country at the square where the Union Jack was taken down and replaced with the national flag now known as the ‘Jalur Gemilang’ in place of the British flag.

Unity was also displayed through a march past by 23 contingents from government departments and agencies, private sector and security personnel, as well as lively field performances.

The Merdeka parade began promptly at 8.05am, after the arrival of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Haminah.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and wife Puan Sri Noorainee Abdul Rahman as well as cabinet members and heads of foreign missions were also present to watch the parade and two hours of exhilarating performances.

At 8.15am, the national anthem “Negaraku” was sung to the sound of 14 rounds of artillery fire followed by the pledge read by 57 participants comprising school students, undergraduates and civil servants.

Those present also observed a minute of silence in remembrance of those warriors who had sacrificed their lives in the past.

Tuanku Abdul Halim also inspected the Guard of Honour made up of 107 officers and personnel from the 1st Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment from the Sungai Besi Camp, led by Major Ameiza Mohd Ashhari.

At the same time, there was a flypast by five helicopters from the Royal Malaysia Air Force (RMAF) carrying the national flag.

What was obvious during the event was the participation of thousands of youths in the field performances after tirelessly training to ensure flawless execution.

Responsibilities such as reading the pledge and carrying the giant Jalur Gemilang were also entrusted to the youths.

The pledge reading by a group of 57 pledge readers was led by a student from Sekolah Sultan Alam Shah in Putrajaya, Ahmad Amsyar Ahmad Afendi, who then led the crowd in shouting ‘Merdeka’ seven times.

Throughout the ceremony, a zeppelin bearing the image of the first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj hovered in the air space at Dataran Merdeka along with four drones.

A high-tech camera was installed to the zeppelin, allowing the bird’s-eye view on the event to be broadcasted onto the giant screen at Dataran Merdeka for all to see, as well as for use by TV stations.

A total of 2,280 choir members and 2,240 were involved in the field performances, which coloured the celebrations with various unique formations of words and logos.

The choir and field performers then sang the songs titled ‘Warisan’ and ‘Di Sini Lahirnya Sebuah Cinta’, which sent across this year’s national day theme, Malaysia: Here, Where Love Begins.

Interestingly this year, the emceeing duty taken up by Saiful Khairi Ahmad Hasibuan from the Culture and Arts Department and Pang Chin Fei, TV3’s senior journalist was also shared by Malaysia’s beloved animation characters, Upin and Ipin.

Upin and Ipin went interactive on an LED screen with each skit and song they performed were supported by graphic formations done by field participants and the graphic terrace.

Sixty members of the Armed Forces marching band led by Left Aziz Joslim Abdullah took the lead in the parade, with the sound of RMAF SU-30MKM Sukhoi and Hawk aircraft rumbled above when they came together for a spectacular formation over the air space.

This was followed by 57 flag bearers carrying giant-sized flags and 57 flag bearers from National Youth Skills Institutes (IKBN) carrying small flags, as well as 23 participating contingents and 10 marching bands.

Also exhibited to the public during the parade were 157 assets belonging to country’s security forces.

-THE MALAY MAIL ONLINE

Sabahan view on Malaysia

KOTA KINABALU: Standing still or doing nothing is not an option after 51 years of Sabah and Sarawak being in Federation with the peninsula.



That’s the thrust of Star Sabah Chief Jeffrey Kitingan’s presentation at a pre-weekend public forum in Kota Kinabalu, “Malaysia at the Crossroads”, on the eve of the 57th and 51st Independence Day celebrations of the peninsula and Sabah respectively. Sarawak obtained its independence on 22 July, 1963.

The Federation as it exists, he warned, has veered away from the original purpose behind the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) i.e. a Goodwill Project, an equal partnership of Sabah, Sarawak and Malaya to facilitate Singapore’s merger with the peninsula.

“The Federation as it exists must be restructured to reflect MA63,” said Jeffrey who did not say whether Singapore must be brought back into the equation. “There must be a new Malaysian Constitution in line with MA63, not the Federal Constitution which is actually the old Malayan Constitution with minor changes.”

The reality on the ground, added Jeffrey, is that Penang, Malacca and Kedah can all be inserted into Keningau, the city in the interior which he calls home. Yet, Keningau is represented by just one seat in Parliament, he fumed.

An equally troubling question, continued Jeffrey, is that the Federation has since degenerated over the years into a de facto unitary state viz. the states have very little power while local governments have no power.

“If we do nothing,” ventured Jeffrey, “we are in fact condoning the continued occupation of Sabah and Sarawak by the peninsula.”

Occupation, no different from colonisation, brings with it all it means in the sense that the resources of the vassal territories are controlled, managed and monopolised by the mother country, he said.

Continued domination of the Borneo nations by the peninsula, said Jeffrey, is politically incorrect and unacceptable. “We must have our own Prime Ministers in Sabah and Sarawak.”

Jeffrey suggests that attempts be made by the parties concerned to review and re-sign MA63 before considering other options like Sabah and Sarawak exiting the Federation.

“The presence of the illegal immigrants has made it harder for Sabah,” conceded Jeffrey if the independence option is to be considered. “We have to consider the politics, defence and military aspects as well. It’s a dilemma.”

-fmt

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Olympus goes for the selfie market with the PEN E-PL7

The Olympus PEN E-PL7 is the latest camera to target the selfie-shooting crowd, though this time (thankfully) not by mimicking a perfume bottle like the Sony KW1. Instead the stylish mirrorless camera simply boasts features to make shooting and sharing selfies easier. As such, it includes a dedicated Selfie Mode, a 180-degree downward flip LCD, and built-in Wi-Fi.



The latest addition to the Olympus PEN line-up sticks with the retro-styling we've seen on cameras like the PEN E-P5, and uses a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) Live MOS sensor, paired with a TruePic VII image processor. A three-axis image stabilization system, derived from the one in the Olympus OM-D E-M10, is there to help reduce the blurs caused by camera shake.

The PEN E-PL7 has an ISO range of 200 to 25,600 and is capable of sequential shooting at 8 fps, or 3.5 fps with continuous autofocus with tracking. And it's no slouch when it comes to that autofocus either, as the contrast detection AF system uses 81 points and is said to be Olympus' fastest ever. The camera can also record Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps.

While these specs all suggest the E-PL7 to be a perfectly capable and versatile camera, it's interesting that Olympus is choosing to promote it primarily based on its selfie-friendly credentials. Marketing for the camera is using the three-inch 1,037K dot touchscreen, which tilts 180 degrees downward to make composing self portraits easier, as the big selling point.


When the LCD is tilted to the 180-degree position, the camera activates Selfie Mode. This sees a shutter-release button appear on the touchscreen, with a one-second delay to give you time to strike a pose. Selfie Interval Shooting Mode takes three shots at one-second intervals. If an electronic zoom lens is attached, Selfie Mode will also automatically adjust to the wide-angle position, to help take a shot incorporating the background.

Built-in Wi-Fi makes remote shooting and sharing selfies (or any other photos, for that matter) nice and simple. An updated OI.Share app can be used to set the self-timer or activate Selfie Interval Shooting, along with displaying Live View on the smartphone screen and controlling the camera from there.

Measuring 115 x 67 x 38 mm (4.5 x 2.6 x 1.5 in) and weighing 357 g (12.6 oz), the E-PL7 is one of the smaller mirrorless cameras, and should be easy to carry around, depending on which lens is attached. On that note, given the choice of compatible Micro Four Thirds Mount lenses, and the shooting versatility they offer, seeing the E-PL7 as a dedicated selfie machine arguably does it a disservice.

The Olympus PEN E-PL7 will be available from late September in black, silver or white for US$600 body-only, or $700 bundled with a 14-42-mm F3.5-F5.6 lens.

You can check out the Olympus PEN E-PL7 in the promo video below.

-gizmac.com

HTC Desire 210 Dual SIM vs Motorola Moto E

HTC Desire 210 Dual Sim and Motorola Moto E are budget smartphones.

That means they are cheap, affordable, yet very reliable devices that can handle most of the operations required by the common user. If you’re in the market for a budget Android smartphone, we can help you make the best decision by comparing these handsets and their features.



Display and Design

Right from the start Motorola offers better experience. Due to the larger screen size (4.3 inches compared to 4-inches of the HTC), reading, browsing the internet and watching movies is much more pleasing on Moto E. Motorola’s device also has a better pixel density, which translates into sharper and crisper screen. Moto E boasts a resolution of 540 x 960 pixels, and density of 256ppi. Desire 210, on the other hand, competes with 480 x 800 pixels screen resolution and density of 233ppi.

HTC has an advantage when it comes to dimensions. The phone is both lighter and slimmer than its competitor. Desire 210 weighs 130 grams, while Moto weighs 142. Lightweight devices feel better in the hand, and can be held tirelessly for a long time. Desire 210 is also slimmer (10.5 mm vs 12.3mm), which makes the device easier to handle or carry in the pocket. HTC’s phone also looks more stylish and fashionable.

Hardware and Operating System

Motorola’s handset basically runs over HTC’s in this category. Moto E has more power in every segment, including a faster processor and higher RAM memory. Moto E boasts 1.2GHz dual-core Snapdragon 200 processor with 1 GB RAM memory. HTC’s device can offer only 1GHz dual-core MediaTek processor with just 512 MB RAM memory. Due to its more powerful processor, Moto E can handle multitasking more smoothly than Desire 210.

Internal storage is a problem with both devices, but you should expect that from a budget smartphone. Both handsets have 4GB internal storage, with an option to add a microSD card and increase the memory up to 32 GB. Moto E runs the newest Android version 4.4 KitKat, while Desire 210 is stuck at Android 4.2.

Camera

Both devices carry 5-MP rear cameras, a pretty decent option for taking pictures. One downside is that neither of the phones has flash, which means that taking photos in low light conditions is tricky. One advantage of HTC’s device is the front camera. Even though it is only 0.3 MP, it still is one feature Moto E doesn’t have. And in the modern era of selfies, having a front facing camera comes in handy.

Battery

Moto E has around 52% more battery capacity than its competitor. With 1980 mAh capacity, it can last for a longer time compared to HTC Desire 210 and its 1300 mAh battery capacity.

Price

Motorola is slightly cheaper than its competitor with a starting price of around $120. HTC Desire 210, on the other hand, costs around $130.

Final Verdict

Both phones are excellent choices for budget Android device. They both have their strengths and weaknesses, and the decision depends on your preferences. HTC’s device looks better in hand, is stylish and has more storage. However, the sheer power advantage of Moto E cannot be ignored.

-thefusejoplin.com

IGP warns PPS to stop activities or face arrest

The Penang Voluntary Patrol Unit (PPS) has been told to stop operations or face the possibility of arrest.

"I advise members of the group to stop their activities. Failure to do so may result in arrest," said Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.



The Inspector-General of Police also said that now that the group had been deemed illegal, the responsibility to ensure that it ceased operations fell on the police.

Khalid, although commending PPS volunteers' efforts to ensure public safety, said the group had deviated from its role as a community service provider.

"At least two police reports were lodged against PPS for unruly behaviour, including assaults on a reporter and a member of the public.

"They have also carried out traffic controls without heeding traffic laws and instructions from the police," he added.

Earlier, Penang MCA Youth chief Michael Lee Beng Seng had urged the Home Ministry to check on the groups' legality after a brawl occurred between PPS members and social activist Ong Eu Soon, 51, on Aug 17.

Following the incident, Khalid issued a statement saying that PPS is viewed as an illegal society under Section 41 of the Societies Act (1966) as it was not registered with the Registrar of Societies (RoS).

Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng defended the PPS, saying that it was a legal state body.

Several online portals quoted Lim as saying that the PPS has been in operation for the past four years without any problems, until recently.

Meanwhile, Khalid and Attorney-General Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail will be leaving for Amsterdam on Sunday to continue investigations into the downing of Malaysian Airlines (MAS) flight MH17 with their Australian and Dutch counterparts.

"We have yet to receive clearance from Ukrainian authorities to enter the crash site, which is controlled by separatists.

"The police, along with our Dutch and Australian counterparts, agreed not to enter the site until it is deemed safe," said Khalid.

Khalid spoke at the handover ceremony of power between former federal police Internal Security and Public Order director Comm Datuk Seri Salleh Mat Rasid and his successor Deputy Comm Datuk Ab Razak Ab Ghani.

-thestar

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Bank robber shot dead

http://www.mole.my/sites/default/files/images/mole-Ambank-group-USJ.jpgGEORGE TOWN: A security guard at a bank in Sungai Dua here foiled a robbery attempt when he shot dead the robber today morning.

Penang deputy police chief Datuk A. Thaiveegan said the fake mustache-wearing suspect entered the premises with two bottles of petrol. He said the suspect then doused the floor and counters with petrol during the 11.17am incident and threatened the staff and customers that he will burn down the building if he did not get what he wanted.

"The security guard took the chance to shoot him when he was shouting," he said at a press conference at the scene.

This is not the first time the bank has been targeted as robbers made off with some RM60,000 during an attempt on May 29.

During the 2.45pm incident then, two parang-wielding men also doused the premises with petrol and threaten to set the place on fire before making off with the loot.

The similar modus operandi led investigators to believe the suspect in today's incident to be from the same gang.

Thaiveegan said police were working on establishing whether the deceased, who is in his 30s, was alone as they were not ruling out the accomplices who may have been waiting outside.

He also praised the security guard for keeping cool under pressure and taking a quick action to stop a robbery.

"I would say the security guard has done an excellent job," he added.

Investigations are being carried out under Sections 395 and 397 of the Penal Code for gang-robbery and armed robbery respectively.

-thesundaily.my

Badminton: Lee joins main rivals in last 16 at worlds

World number one Lee Chong Wei marched on in his bid for an elusive world championship title as he strolled into the last 16 to follow suit with his leading rivals in Copenhagen on Wednesday.

http://en.selangorku.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/1.11.jpg

The Malaysian top seed, runner-up at the last two world finals, made light work of Germany's Dieter Domke with Lee cruising to a 21-12, 21-9 victory.

"He is a lower-ranked opponent but he put up a fight although I felt confident all the way through," said Lee after dispatching his 43rd-ranked opponent.

However the Malaysian, also a two-time Olympic silver medallist, admitted he was still working his way back to top form having been sidelined since June with a persistent groin injury.

"I was out of action for two months so I'm still trying to get some feelings back out on court. There are some shots I'm still reluctant to play," he said.

Lee faces unheralded 49th-ranked Irishman Scott Evans for a place in the quarter-finals but the world's top player stressed he wouldn't be caught looking further ahead in the draw.

"Evans is another lower-ranked player but I'm not going to underestimate him. I'll be taking him seriously," said Lee.

Earlier second seed Chen Long of China steamrolled his way into round three with a clinical display to see off Germany's 2012 European champion Marc Zwiebler 21-11, 21-10.

With fourth seed Kenichi Tago a pre-tournament withdrawal due to injury Chen's path to the final appears a favourable one with Indonesian fifth seed Tommy Sugiarto -- a 21-16, 21-13 winner over Russia's Vladimir Malkov on Wednesday -- his likely opponent in the last four.

Home favourite Jan O Jorgensen is on a collision course with Lee after the Dane breezed past his second-round opponent Eetu Heino of Finland 21-9, 21-17 in just under 30 minutes.

"It was a great game. I'm happy with the outcome and the way I played," said Jorgensen, who is seeded three.

Jorgensen cited a pre-existing foot problem for a slight second-game stumble but allayed any fears it might derail his bid to become the first European to lift the world title since compatriot Peter Rasmussen in 1997.

"I struggled a bit with my foot during a training camp before the world championships. I slipped during the second set...and lost my concentration a little bit. Everything's fine though," said Jorgensen, who will face Chou Tien-chen, after the Taiwanese player took care of Japanese 15th seed Sho Sosaki 21-16, 21-19.

Former world junior champion Wang Zhengming of China was given a scare as Petr Koukal took him to a third game before the sixth seed outlasted the Czech 21-15, 19-21, 21-7.

Hong Kong's ninth seed Hu Yun was pushed all the way by Finn Ville Lang before prevailing 17-21, 21-15, 21-17 while South Korean Son Wan-ho progressed seamlessly into round three with a ruthless 21-6, 21-12 demolition of American Sattawat Pongnairat.

However, Chinese 11th seed Tian Houwei, junior world champion in 2009, became the highest-ranked casualty in the men's draw after he was upset 21-15, 21-16 by Dutchman Eric Pang.

Meanwhile, women's second seed Wang Shixian shook off stubborn resistance from Hong Kong's Yip Pui Yin to make the last 16 courtesy of a 21-15, 21-18 victory.

She was joined in the third round by compatriot and third seed Wang Yihan as the 2011 champion eliminated Denmark's Anna Thea Madsen 21-13, 21-13.

Top-ranked European Carolina Marin, the world number 10 from Spain, edged past Malaysia's Tee Jing Yi 21-18, 16-21, 21-10 while South Korea's Bae Yeon-ju, Taiwan's Tai Tzu-ying and 2013 bronze medallist P.V. Sindhu of India also moved on in routine fashion.

However, tenth seed Porntip Buranaprasertsuk of Thailand was knocked out by Canada's Commonwealth champion Michelle Li.

-YahooSport

Malaysia Airlines loss nearly doubles on MH370 impact

Kuala Lumpur: Crisis-stricken Malaysia Airlines said Thursday its second-quarter loss nearly doubled as the loss of flight MH370 spurred a decline in bookings, warning the red ink would accelerate as the year wears on.

http://www.cctv-america.tv/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/SLE-TRAVEL-TO-MALAYSIA-DIPS.Still001-618x347.jpgThe flag carrier said it posted a 305.7 million ringgit ($97.2 million) loss in the April-June quarter, which followed the March 8 disappearance of flight MH370 with 239 passengers and crew aboard.

That compared to a 175 million ringgit loss in the same period of last year.

The latest results mark the sixth straight quarterly loss for Malaysia Airlines (MAS), which has struggled to stay competitive and is now in dire financial straits following MH370 and the July 18 shooting down over Ukraine of flight MH17, which killed all 298 aboard that plane.

"The impact of the MH370 incident and intensified competition resulted in" a 6.7 percent drop in bookings, it said in a statement to the Malaysian stock exchange.

But the airline -- which is in the process of being taken over by Malaysia`s state investment fund as part of a bid to restructure and rescue the company -- warned that second-half results will be even worse.

"The full financial impact of the double tragedies of MH370 and MH17 is expected to hit Malaysia Airlines in the second half of the year, where we saw a sharp decline in average weekly bookings by 33 percent immediately after the MH17 incident, with numerous flights cancelled," it said.

MAS has bled money for years, losing a combined $1.3 billion over the past three calendar years before 2014, as intensifying competition from more nimble rivals like Malaysia`s fast-growing budget carrier AirAsia have lured away travellers with their rock-bottom pricing.

But the sudden association with tragedy for an airline that previously had a solid safety record has pushed it the financial precipice.

MH370 inexplicably diverted from its Kuala Lumpur-Beijing course, and the Malaysian government says it is believed to have gone down far to the south in the Indian Ocean.

MH17 went down over a region of eastern Ukraine held by pro-Russian rebels.

It is believed to have been shot down by a missile but investigators still don`t know who was responsible.

-AFP

Sabah to see first Borneo Rhythms of Rimba Wildlife Festival

A festival to present a mosaic of the amazing tapestry of Sabah’s biodiversity is set to be held for two days in October.

Dubbed the 1st Borneo Rhythms of Rimba Wildlife Festival (ROR), it is scheduled on Oct 3 and 4 in the nature destination town of Sandakan.

1

The outdoor festival will be held at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, in the Sepilok forest, well known internationally for the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC).

Facing the lush 4,294ha tropical forest of Sepilok, the programme will feature presentations from the government, conservation and academic organisations, including the Sabah Forestry Department, Land Empowerment Animals People (LEAP), Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA), BSBCC, HUTAN, Danau Girang Field Centre (DGFC), University of St Andrew’s Scotland, University Malaysia Sabah and Reef Guardian.

Their collective work covers the gamut of Borneo’s forest habitats, elephants, rhinoceros, orang-utans, sun bears, pangolins, whales, dolphins and marine life.

Intertwined with the above will be musical performances by Amir Yussof, Jason Lo, Pink Tan, Carburetor Dung, Guba, Jin Se and many more.

In addition, numerous arts and crafts workshops, zumba, yoga and contemporary dance presentations will also make up the colourful, wildlife and nature-centric vibe of the festival.

Apart from presenting a mosaic of the amazing tapestry of our biodiversity, the festival also hopes to grow it into an annual celebration of Borneo’s animals and forests, reaching out to an international and family-centric audience.

ROR fest is organised by the not-for-profit society Future Alam Borneo (FAB).

The festival is proudly supported by the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Sabah Forestry Department, the Embassy of the United States of America, numerous corporate entities and the passionate contributions of countless wildlife-loving friends.


Read more: http://www.therakyatpost.com/

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie finally get married in France

Engaged since April 2012, the super couple of Hollywood – Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt – finally tied the knot in France on Saturday, according to a source close to the couple.

Jolie and Pitt wed in a small chapel in a private ceremony attended by family and friends. In advance of the nondenominational civil ceremony, Pitt and Jolie also obtained a marriage license from a local California judge. The judge also conducted the ceremony in France.

While Jolie walked down the aisle with her eldest sons Maddox and Pax, her daughters Zahara, and Vivienne, threw petals and Shiloh and Knox served as ring bearers, according to the source.

The couple's love has been blooming since 2005, when they met on the sets of 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' for the first time. Pitt was then married to 'Friends' star Jennifer Aniston while Jolie was single. The actress was previously married to Jonny Lee Miller and Billy Bob Thornton.

Reportedly Angelina had even said that she wouldn't look at herself if she loved a guy cheating on his wife, like his father did. But fate had something else written for them. After denying their intimate relationship at several occasions, the couple finally admitted that they were in love.

After years of speculations and numbers of media reports about the couple's intimacy and Pitt's divorce, they came clear after Angelina conceived her first baby with Brad.

The couple is raising three adopted and three biological children together.

They haven't shared the screen space for any movie after 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' but they are ready to scorch the big screen with their upcoming offering, 'By the Sea'.

-dnaindia.com

Judge denies Apple's request to ban 9 Samsung phones

Cupertino based Apple came out on the losing end of the latest ruling in its patent battle with Samsung.
U.S. District court Judge Lucy Koh rejected Apple's demand that 9 Samsung phones be banned in the U.S.

Apple lawyers argued that sales of older Samsung phones such as the Galaxy S3 would irreparably harm the company.

But Judge Koh said Apple has already gained enough in its legal war with Samsung.

In May, a federal jury ordered Samsung to pay Apple $120 million for copying technology from the iPhone.

-NBCNews.com   

Wayne Rooney named England football captain

England manager Roy Hodgson has announced Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney as the new England captain, succeeding Liverpool's Steven Gerrard who retired from international duty in July.

Hodgson also named four uncapped players in his squad for next week's international friendly against Norway and the Euro 2016 qualifier in Switzerland.

The old and the new: Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney.

Arsenal's 19-year-old defender Calum Chambers will be joined by Jack Colback of Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur's Danny Rose and Aston Villa's Fabian Delph, all aged 24, as the new faces in the 22-man squad.

England host Norway at Wembley on Wednesday before they start their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign away to Switzerland on Sept.8.
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"It will be exciting but there will be some anxious moments to see how these players step up," Hodgson told a news conference on Thursday.

"We've been a bit unlucky in our first qualifier, it is arguably our hardest one (Switzerland away) and these players may not get the soft introduction they may have had.

"I don't think there is any reason for intrepidation. With these players we are bringing into the squad, and don't forget there's no Theo Walcott, Ross Barkley or Adam Lallana, I see no reason for us to be fearful."

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Fraser Forster (Southampton), Ben Foster (West Bromwich Albion), Joe Hart (Manchester City)

Defenders: Leighton Baines (Everton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Calum Chambers (Arsenal), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Danny Rose (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Everton)

Midfielders: Jack Colback (Newcastle United), Fabian Delph (Aston Villa), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), James Milner (Manchester City), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Liverpool), Andros Townsend (Tottenham Hotspur), Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)

Forwards: Rickie Lambert (Liverpool), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Daniel Sturridge (Liverpool), Danny Welbeck (Manchester United)

Reuters

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au

6 get month in jail for 'nude games'

A Malaysian court sent six men to jail for a month on Thursday and will try four other people over a nudist gathering that triggered outrage in the Muslim-majority country, a defence lawyer said.

File photo for illustration shows nudists taking part in the annual North East Skinny Dip as the sun rises at Druridge Bay in Northumberland, northeast England on September 22, 2013

The six men -- five Malaysians and a Singaporean -- were jailed after pleading guilty to charges of public obscenity, said lawyer S. Thangaveloo, who represents Singaporean defendant Loh Kok Hong.

"They were all sentenced to one month jail and fined 5,000 ringgit ($1,589)," Thangaveloo said.

The four other people -- all Malaysian, and including three women -- who are contesting the charges were freed on bail by the court in the northern state of Penang, police said.

"We are still hunting for five more individuals, one each from Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia and two Myanmar nationals," said Mohamad Jalaluddin, the investigating police officer in the case.

The defendants were arrested for staging what they called the "Nude Sports Games 2014" on May 30.

The event's existence surfaced when a video by the organisers appeared on social media in early August and went viral.

It shows participants engaged in a range of activities on a secluded Penang beach, including dancing, body painting, and relay races, all in the nude.

In one scene, a nude woman rides horseback on a man, while in another, a naked woman crawls over three nude men lying next to each other in the sand.

The gathering has been condemned by Muslim conservatives but also many non-Muslims, and triggered heated online exchanges between critics and supporters of the nudists.

About 60 percent of Malaysia's nearly 30 million people are Muslim ethnic Malays.

Yearnings for greater freedom of expression in the multi-cultural country have increasingly bumped up against conservative attitudes among Muslims and the country's long-time authoritarian government.

In a separate case, a male and female model were fined this week after taking part in a public photo shoot in the northern city of Ipoh clad only in their underwear.

-Bangkok Post

Ebola outbreak could infect 20,000 people

The Ebola epidemic in West Africa could infect more than 20,000 people, the U.N. health agency said on Thursday, warning that an international effort costing almost half a billion dollars is needed to overcome the outbreak.

As the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced its strategic plan for combating the virus, GlaxoSmithKline said an experimental Ebola vaccine is being fast-tracked into human studies and it plans to produce up to 10,000 doses for emergency deployment if the results are good.

 photo

The WHO estimates it will take six to nine months to halt the Ebola epidemic in West Africa, while Nigeria said on Thursday that a doctor involved in treating the Liberian-American who brought the disease to the country had died in Port Harcourt, Africa's largest energy hub, although the cause had yet to be confirmed.

So far 3,069 cases have been reported in the outbreak but the WHO said the actual number in Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Nigeria could already be two to four times higher.

"This is not a West Africa issue. This is a global health security issue," Bruce Aylward, the WHO's Assistant Director-General for Polio, Emergencies and Country Collaboration, told reporters in Geneva.

With a fatality rate of 52 percent, the death toll stood at 1,552 as of Aug. 26. That is nearly as high as the total from all recorded outbreaks since Ebola was discovered in what is now Democratic Republic of Congo in 1976.

The figures do not include deaths from a separate Ebola outbreak announced at the weekend in Congo, which has been identified as a different strain of the virus.

Aylward said tackling the epidemic would cost an estimated $490 million, involving thousands of local staff and 750 international experts. "It is a big operation. We are talking (about) well over 12,000 people operating over multiple geographies and high-risk circumstances. It is an expensive operation," he said.

The operation marks a major ramping up of the response by the WHO, which had been accused by some aid agencies of reacting too slowly to the outbreak.

A wider United Nations -led plan being launched by the end of September is expected to provide support for the secondary effects of the outbreak on food security, water, sanitation, primary and secondary healthcare and education, the WHO said.

EXPERIMENTAL DRUGS

Early this month, the WHO called the current Ebola outbreak an "international health emergency". Concerns that the disease could spread beyond West Africa have led to the use of drugs still under development for the treatment of a handful of cases.

Two American health workers, who contracted Ebola while treating patients in Liberia, received an experimental therapy called ZMapp, a cocktail of antibodies made by tiny California biotech Mapp Biopharmaceutical. They recovered and were released from hospital last week.

The virus has already killed an unprecedented number of health workers and is still being spread in a many places, the agency said. About 40 percent of the cases have occurred within the past 21 days, WHO statistics showed.

Previous Ebola outbreaks have mainly occurred in isolated areas of Central Africa. However the current epidemic has spread to three West African capitals and Lagos, Africa's biggest city. The WHO said special attention would need to be given to stopping transmission in capital cities and major ports.

Authorities in Nigeria announced the death in Port Harcourt, the oil industry hub of Africa's largest crude exporter, of one of the doctors who treated Patrick Sawyer, a U.S. citizen who died in Lagos after flying in from Liberia last month.

Health Ministry spokesman Dan Nwomeh wrote in his Twitter feed that 70 people who had been in contact with Sawyer were now under observation in the town. Aylward said the deceased doctor had not yet been confirmed as being infected with Ebola.

According to new figures released on Thursday, Nigeria has recorded 17 cases, including six deaths, from Ebola, since Sawyer collapsed upon arrival at Lagos airport in late July.

AID EFFORT CHOKED OFF

The Lagos case contributed to the decision by a number of airlines to halt services to Ebola-affected countries. Air France said on Wednesday it had suspended flights to Sierra Leone on the advice of the French government.

The WHO has advised against travel bans and border closures, which some countries in the region have also implemented, saying they risked creating food and supply shortages.

"We assume current airline limitations will stop within the next couple of weeks. This is absolutely vital," Aylward said. "Right now the aid effort risks being choked off."

West African health ministers meeting in Ghana on Thursday echoed the WHO's concerns and called for the reopening of borders and an end to flight bans.

-Rauter

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Football: Benzema, Ronaldo gift Real first win

MADRID: A bullet header from Karim Benzema and a late Cristiano Ronaldo strike allowed Real Madrid to kick off their La Liga campaign with a 2-0 victory over newly promoted Cordoba.



The visitors made it difficult for Real and constantly threatened the goal post in order to find an equaliser but Ronaldo ended any thoughts of their comeback with a goal late on.

“The most important thing was to start with a win which we did even though we had to suffer,” said Real Madrid coach Carlos Ancelotti.

Real beat Sevilla to win the Uefa Super Cup but were poor during the pre-season being outplayed by Atletico Madrid in the domestic Super Cup, losing 2-1 on aggregate.

Published in The Express Tribune,

LA MOTOR SHOW: Fresh CX-5 just one Mazda

Mazda looks set to make a big splash at this year's Los Angeles motor show in November, indicating it will debut at least two new models.

Speaking at this week's launch of the Mazda3 XD Astina sports diesel, Mazda Australia marketing chief Alastair Doak said we should "expect to be surprised" by "more than one" reveal by Mazda – not least of which will be a refreshed CX-5.



Doak's comments add fuel to reports earlier this week that a born-again RX-7 is imminent, although existing Mazda models are also due to be refreshed in quick succession, beginning with Australia's top-selling SUV, the CX-5.

Spy photos of the facelifted CX-5 surfaced on the net a fortnight ago, bolstering the view that an updated version of Mazda's mid-size crossover is mere months away. The revisions to the CX-5, launched here in 2012, are expected to be more evolutionary than revolutionary, but a new grille – styled similarly to that of the new Mazda2 to be released in November – new lighting clusters with LED running lamps, and LED indicators on the wing mirrors are likely.

Mazda's quicker model-cycle turnaround is expected to also apply to the Mazda6, which will score an all-new interior next year. Mazda has said previously that its largest passenger car will undergo major changes when it is facelifted and the mid-size sedan and wagon is expected to receive a new centre console and dashboard featuring the Mazda3's larger dash-top infotainment screen – followed by sheetmetal changes as early as 2016, despite being launched only last year.

The same year will see the Mazda3 receive a light refresh. As with most mid-life upgrades, mild re-profiling of the bumpers, new alloy wheels and perhaps a new colour palette are be expected for the Japanese car-maker's current best-seller – but like the Mazda6 it could also receive midlife sheetmetal updates.

By then the Mazda3 should also be offered with the smaller-capacity 1.5-litre turbo-diesel seen in Europe's new Mazda2, bringing an entry-level oil-burning option to compliment the $40k-plus XD Astina diesel sports hatch in what Mazda hopes will be Australia's top-selling model.

But the big news for Mazda hot hatch fans is the belated return of the Mazda3 MPS as part of the facelifted 2016 Mazda3 line-up, powered by a new turbocharged version of Mazda's 2.5-litre petrol four that will also be fitted exclusively to the second-generation CX-9 due earlier that year. Expect the new Mazda3 MPS to deliver at least 225kW to the road, possibly via an all-wheel drive system derived from the CX-5 and CX-9.

Meantime, apart from ditching the Ford-derived V6 it currently employs, the all-new and all-four-cylinder large seven-seat crossover will migrate to a SKYACTIV platform for the first time – the final Mazda passenger car to do – offering more space inside while being smaller outside, and bringing a new suite of safety and multimedia systems.

And speaking of smaller outside, Mazda's first compact SUV, the all-new CX-3, is tipped to be with us in less than 12 months – by mid-2015. Set to compete with the likes of the Holden Trax and Ford EcoSport, the CX-3 will offer similar drivetrains and technology offerings as the newly launched Mazda2 hatch on which it is based, albeit in a higher-riding package.

Mazda Australia is still holding out for a facelifted version of its BT-50, similar to the one its Ford Ranger twin will receive in mid-2015, but has ruled out the Mazda3 hybrid and may also choose not import a potential plug-in version of its new Mazda2, and the company's first diesel-electric hybrid, which is due by early 2017 and could consume as little as 2.5L/100km.

The production version of Mazda's reincarnated RX-7 coupe, based on the same rear-drive SKYACTIV platform as next year's new-generation MX-5, is due to lob in 2017 – 50 years after the Cosmo – perhaps followed in 2020 (the year Mazda celebrates its centenary) by an even more serious rotary-powered coupe, the RX-9 supercar.

While the lighter, smaller fourth-generation MX-5 soft-top will be revealed in the US on September 3, it won't be launched globally until next year, nor released in Australia until mid-2015 – but it could spawn a hard-top version a year later.

Before either RX sports coupe emerges, the second-generation CX-5 will be launched as the first instalment of Mazda's seventh-generation model range, featuring only subtle changes to its chassis but a new bodyshell 'top-hat', marking a return to Mazda's pre-SKYACTIV product cycles, which saw an all-new model produced only every second generation.

-motoring.com

Moscow Live – Ford EcoSport

In Russia, Ford is ready to strike the Renault Duster, Nissan Juke, Opel Mokka and Chevrolet Niva with the Ford EcoSport presented today for the first time in the country at the Moscow Motor Show 2014 (2014 Moscow International Auto Salon).



Russia is the fifth country in the world to manufacture the EcoSport.
As previously reported, the EcoSport will be fully manufactured at Ford Sollers’ Tatastan plant later this year. Based on the Fiesta platform, the EcoSport was shown as a concept car at the 2012 Delhi Auto Expo and later that year entered production in Brazil. The EcoSport is today made in India, China, Brazil and Thailand.

The Russian EcoSport measures 3,998 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width and 1,648 mm in height, with a ground clearance of 200 mm, and a trunk capacity of 333 liters, and with folded rear seatback, increases to 1,238 liters. Reliable local media reports state that the Russian EcoSport will get all-wheel drive (a press release is yet to be updated on the Ford website at the time of penning this draft).

The basic motor will be the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine (Ecoboost), and a 90 bhp diesel engine and another 140 bhp 2.0-liter petrol engine would be offered on higher variants.

The base price of the car is 699,000 rubles (INR 11.71 lakhs)

Note – This story will be updated as and when we receive official info.

-indianautosblog

Girl (9) accidentally shoots dead gun instructor in US

A shooting instructor has died after he was accidentally shot while showing a nine-year-old girl how to use an automatic Uzi, authorities in Arizona said.

Charles Vacca (39), died on Monday after he was shot at the Last Stop shooting outdoor range, Mohave County Sheriff’s officials said.

Mr Vacca was airlifted to the University Medical Centre in Las Vegas, the officials said.

According to investigators, Mr Vacca was standing next to the girl when she pulled the trigger and the recoil sent the gun over her head.

Deputies said the girl was at the shooting range with her parents.
PA

MB crisis: Hadi did not offer MB post to Azmin?

Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang’s political secretary has dismissed allegations that the PAS president had asked PKR deputy president Azmin Ali to join the Islamist party with a view to the latter becoming Selangor Mentri Besar.

In a statement Tuesday, Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar said Hadi had never made such offers, which were allegedly at the centre of discussions when the PAS president met with the Bukit Antarabangsa assemblyman recently.

“I was present when Azmin paid Hadi a visit recently. Azmin’s main reason to visit Hadi was to thank the president for nominating him as the new mentri besar.

“Azmin also sought general views and advice from the president on how to strengthen Pakatan Rakyat.

“Not once did they mention anything about forming a unity government with Umno, as alleged,” said the statement.

A news portal, had on Tuesday reported that Hadi had admitted at a recent meeting with PAS top leadership that such offers were made to Azmin and a few other PKR assemblymen in order to get them to form a unity government with Umno.

Quoting PAS sources, the report added that Azmin had, however, turned down the offer.

“We are very disappointed with the lies that were created just to confuse the people,” said Dr Ahmad.

-thestar

Half-naked 'bride and groom' fined $160 each

The two models involved in the semi-nude photo shoot here have been fined RM400 (S$160) each in default of a months' jail.

Magistrate Haslinda A Raof made the judgment on Wednesday after both freelance models Low Kah Wai, 27, and How Jo Yee, 21, pleaded guilty of causing nuisance in public at a traffic light in front of a bank along Jalan Sultan Yussuf here on Aug 25.



Both were charged under Under Section 268 of the Penal Code and sentenced under Section 290 of the same code, which was also read together with Section 34 of the same code.

Deputy public prosecutor Harris Ong Mohd Jeffery Ong said Low was only wearing black pants and shoes without wearing any shirt, while How was wearing white undergarments.

"Their actions caught the attention of the public and some photographs of them were captured and circulated through social media," he said, while pushing for the maximum penalty of RM400 to be meted out.

"The country is made up of a multi-cultural society and their actions are unacceptable," he added.

On behalf of the models' mitigation, counsel Andrew Soong said both would apologised to the people who were offended by their actions.

"The have also cooperated with the police, pleaded guilty and save the court's time.

"Furthermore, the photographs on social media were not posted by them and they did not have the intention to do so," he said.

Both paid the fine.

When met after the proceedings, Soong said his clients and their respective families were stressed out since the photographs went viral online.

He said they were mulling to take actions against those who published the photographs online.

-asiaoneonline

Women offer sex to jihadi fighters

At least three Sunni Muslim women from Malaysia have travelled to the Middle East to join the Islamic State militants, a report said on Wednesday.


“These women are believed to have offered themselves in sexual comfort roles to ISIS fighters who are attempting to establish Islamic rule in the Middle East,” an unnamed intelligence official was quoted as saying by the Malaysian Insider news portal.

The move follows a decree issued by Islamic State fighters in June ordering families to send their unmarried women for Jihad al-Nikah, or sexual jihad, he was quoted as saying.

“This concept may seem controversial but it has arisen as certain Muslim women here are showing sympathy for the ISIS struggle,” he said.

He also said intelligence from other countries indicated that several women were among the Sunni Muslims from Australia and Britain who have joined up with the militants in the Middle East.

The 600 British citizens fighting alongside them “includes British Muslim women who are not fighting on the front line, but are still involved by performing sexual jihad”, he said.

The concept of sexual jihad was reportedly first coined in a 2013 edict by a fundamentalist Wahhabi cleric, telling women to offer sexual services to help the morale of those fighting against Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak on Wednesday condemned the militants for the alleged mass executions and killings of unarmed civilians in Syria and Iraq.

Such action were “counter to our faith, our culture, and our common humanity”, he said. “They are against the teachings of the Prophet, a man of peace and moderation; and against Islamic law, which prizes the protection of life above all.” - Sapa-dpa

Najib condemns Islamic State militants

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak today broke his silence over the Islamic State militants‎ in Syria and Iraq, and condemned their actions in the Middle East.

"Malaysia strongly condemns the actions of the Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq," he said in a five-paragraph statement.



"We are deeply saddened by the crimes committed in the name of Islam, a religion of peace.

"We deplore those responsible, and call on the international community to act in concert to prevent further violence."

In June, Najib courted controversy when he told Umno to emulate the bravery of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (Isis) militants if the Malay nationalist party wanted to survive.

He told more than 1,000 Umno members during a dinner that the militant group had defeated an Iraqi army which outnumbered it nearly 30 to one.
But, Najib said today the militants' actions ran counter to the Islamic faith and culture, and humanity.

"They are against the teachings of the Prophet, a man of peace and moderation; and against Islamic law, which prizes the protection of life above all.

"Around the world, the majority of Muslims seek to live their lives free from violence. We do not recognise the vision of our faith being forced on innocent civilians… whether Sunni, Shia or Christian… over the barrel of a gun."

Isis comprised of Sunni ‎fighters who wish to establish an Islamic caliphate in Iraq and Syria.

Since the conflict in Syria erupted in March 2011, more than 190,000 fatalities have been reported, said the United Nations.

It said on Sunday the terrorist organisation ‎were committing "grave, horrific human rights violations" daily, including targeted killings, trafficking, sexual abuse, abductions, and forced conversions.

"Muslims around the world have watched in horror as a new conflict tears into Syria and Iraq. As reports of mass executions and killings of civilians surface, and graphic evidence of‎ brutality emerges, we have been appalled," Najib said today.‎

‎“When states fail, or are broken by war, extremists see opportunity. They prey on the differences between people, using faith as a cover for atrocities. But they do not speak for us.‎"

He urged the public to fight the extremism with moderation, and work to rebuild the bonds between communities shattered by the war.

The Malaysian Insider reported today that Malaysian women are believed to have joined Isis forces to offer Jihad Al-Nikah or sexual jihad.
Authorities confirmed that three Malaysian women have journeyed to the Middle East to join up with Isis forces.

Jihad Al-Nikah refers to a controversial concept where Sunni women allegedly offer themselves in sexual comfort roles to fighters for the establishment of Islamic rule.

The concept originated from a Wahhabi edict around 2013, that called for Sunni women supporters to come forward for sex jihad and boost the morale of fighters battling against Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria.‎‎

"This concept may seem controversial but it has arisen as certain Muslim women here are showing sympathy for the Isis struggle," an intelligence official told The Malaysian Insider.

So far, three Malaysians have reportedly died in Syria while fighting against the forces of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Mat Soh, 52, was reportedly killed after being hit by a tank shell during fierce fighting between Isis and Syrian forces last week.

In June, 26-year-old Ahmad Tarmimi Maliki died after a suicide incident which killed more than 20 Iraqi soldiers at their base in al-Anbar in May.

The identity of the third Malaysian who perished in the incident has yet to be confirmed by authorities.

On Sunday, Wisma Putra said Putrajaya considers Isis to be a terrorist organisation and does not condone any of its activities, adding that police have been weeding out members of the group as well as sympathisers.
"It has been revealed that some Malaysians have been influenced to support Isis, joining this group of extremists to wage jihad," Wisma Putra, otherwise known as the Foreign Affairs Ministry, said in a statement.
"Since the beginning of the year, authorities have conducted operations to arrest Malaysians or foreigners living here who have been involved in alleged terrorist activities."

Between January and June this year, Malaysian police arrested 19 people including two women for involvement in militancy.

Police also revealed that at least 50 Malaysians are currently believed to be in Syria, fighting alongside Isis forces.

Wisma Putra acknowledged police concerns about the possible threats posed by Malaysian jihadists, saying Putrajaya was monitoring such activities.
"Putrajaya has always been on the alert concerning activities and threats which could be detrimental to internal security and public order." –

Samsung Galaxy Mega 2 Technical Specifications Revealed

Even though Samsung is yet to officially unveil the Galaxy Mega 2 around the world, a Malaysian retailer has reportedly marketed the phones, quoting MYR 1,299 for the device, which roughly translates to $410.



A Malaysian daily was the first to spot this advertisement, published by SenHeng Distributors, as part of a promotional scheme of Maybank’s Credit Cards. The advertisement included production-level specifications along with the price and was listed for sale.

According to info gathered from the post, the Samsung Galaxy Mega 2 sports a 6-inch TFT touch screen, packing in 1280x720pixel. This device is powered by a quad-core 1.5 GHz processor, along with 1.5GB of RAM. This smartphone comes with built-in Android KitKat 4.4 while featuring around 8GB of built-in storage along with an external memory slot.

We are yet to receive formal reports on the total memory capability of this device. We have confirmations regarding camera capability, which is 2.1MP on the front and 8MP on the rear end. The above-mentioned specifications were revealed earlier, although, without an official word from Samsung, it will be impossible to confirm any of these features.

Word is out that the Samsung Galaxy Mega 2 is powered by a 2,800 mAh battery while featuring LTE Cat.4 connectivity, FM Radio and VoLTE support. The Mega 2 was previously spotted in China while a series of images along with a list of specifications were revealed at the time.



More updates are expected to surface soon as experts believe that the Mega 2 is nearing completion. We hope for the same too!

We will keep you posted on the latest news, reports and information from the world of electronic gadgets. Stay tuned for now!

-AIR HERALT

Apple admits some iPhone 5 batteries faulty

Apple has admitted that certain batteries in its popular iPhone 5 smartphones are defective and is offering to replace the faulty batteries free of charge.

The company says the devices affected were sold between September 2012 and January 2013, and carry a particular serial number.



The problem is an embarrassing admission for the firm, which often highlights the build quality of its devices as a unique selling point.

The computer giant says the issue, which causes the devices to suddenly experience shorter battery life, or a need to be charged more frequently, affects a very small percentage of the phones.

The company is urging anyone with a device exhibiting such symptoms to find the serial number by navigating to Settings > General > About and then checking whether it is eligible by inputting the number into an online checker.

If it does qualify, the battery can be replaced at Apple Authorised Service Providers, Apple Retail Stores or by contacting Apple Technical Support.

The replacement process has already begun in the US and China, and will get under way in Ireland on Friday.

According to Apple, all iPhones will be examined prior to being allowed to avail of the service to verify that they are eligible for the replacement and in working order.

The company is recommending the phones are backed up and wiped before being presented for repair.

It says any existing damage, such as a cracked screen, which impairs the replacement of the battery, will need to be resolved prior to the battery replacement.

In some cases, it warns, there may be a cost associated with the repair.

-RTE News

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

LG bets on pricey OLED technology

A journalist takes pictures of a LG Electronics' Ultra Organic Light-emitting Diode (OLED) 3D TV during a press unveiling in Seoul, South Korea. Monday, Aug. 25, 2014. LG Electronics Inc. is sticking with its strategy of using the exceptionally expensive OLED display technology for TVs, announcing two new giant models with ultra-high definition screens. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)LG Electronics Inc. announced two new giant OLED TVs with ultra-high definition screens Monday, sticking with its strategy of using the exceptionally expensive OLED display technology.

The South Korean company said it will ship 65-inch OLED TVs starting September in South Korea, Europe and North America. A 77-inch model will hit shelves later this year.

While major TV makers are pushing to make ultra HD TVs mainstream, they use LCD screens. The super-high resolution picture, also known as 4K, packs four times more pixels than regular HD televisions.

Making ultra HD quality TVs with OLED screens remain costly. LG's 65-inch model will cost 12 million won ($11,765). Other types of ultra HD televisions sell for less than $3,000.

OLED features deeper color saturation and a sharper image quality than LCD. But for years, its cost and high production error rate prevented the technology from catching on among mainstream consumers.

LG said it is committed to OLED because the cost will come down and its advanced screen will eventually replace LCD screens. It forecasts that OLED TV sales will overtake LCD TV sales "within a few years."

"OLED is where we must head next," said Ha Hyun-hwoi, head of LG's TV business. "It is a matter of time."

LG's aggressive bet on OLED TVs is in contrast with its rival Samsung Electronics Co. After rolling out a 55-inch curved TV that uses an OLED display last year, Samsung has not announced an upgrade to its OLED TV for this year. Samsung uses OLED technology mostly for small devices, such as smartphones and tablet computers.

-AP

Khalid Ibrahim: The making of an anti-hero

khalid_antihero_300Isn’t it sublime de facto leadership that after the rottweillers have had their weeks’ fill of ravaging Khalid Ibrahim and sealing his fate as the Menteri Besar (MB) of Selangor, Anwar Ibrahim tells the party congress that he does not agree with personal attacks against Khalid and even calls on the delegates to “acknowledge Khalid’s sincerity and track record”? Touching indeed.

This latest episode of “Desperate Politicians” in Selangor brings to mind the creation of an anti-hero in Jessica Page Morrell’s 2008 manual on “Bullies, Bastards & Bitches”. Has PKR created an anti-hero in Khalid? Let us revisit Jessica’s guide for would-be writers to see if he fits the mould of the anti-hero.

“If you dare to write about less-than-charming characters, you don’t need to always redeem them with an ending in which they see the error of their ways, mend their faults and allow their flinty hearts to be transformed into a choir loft of goodness. You see, Hollywood movies have greatly influenced audience expectations to such a degree that bad people are expected to become good, endings are expected to be tidy and hopeful, and outcomes are expected to be laced with sunshine.”

The end of Khalid’s days as the MB is nigh but I doubt he needs the de facto leader of PKR to orchestrate such a Hollywood feel-good climax to his career. After all, the show ain’t over till the fat gentleman sings and man, when he goes, is he going to sing about the frailties of his erstwhile PR politicians since 2008. Remember, he’s got more files than the rottweilers.

Jessica goes on:

“An anti-hero is a protagonist who is as flawed or more flawed than most characters; he is someone who disturbs the reader with his weaknesses yet is sympathetically portrayed, and who magnifies the frailties of humanity…An anti-hero is often a badass, a maverick or a screw-up. An anti-hero can also play the part of an outsider or loner. This kind of anti-hero often possesses fragile self-esteem, has often failed at love and/or is estranged from people from his past. The reader loves these characters because they are realistic and relatable – just like people in the reader’s life, they’re imperfect and roiling with contradictions. Anti-heroes can be obnoxious, pitiful or charming, but they are always failed heroes or deeply flawed.”

Coming from a socialist background, I have never been a fan of Khalid, especially since the days when he was the Guthrie CEO and was on the opposite side of the fence from the plantation workers we were fighting for.

When he became PR’s celebrated Menteri Besar of Selangor, I was still unimpressed by his neo-liberal and populist policies which included giving away free water to Selangorians.

From 2008 to 2013, we heard nothing but praise and adulation for this PR hero. In a passionate accolade by DAP’s Tony Pua as recently as the recent Kajang by-election:

“Khalid is an extremely honest and hardworking MB.”

The Kajang Bad Movie

It was when PKR announced its asinine “Kajang Move” in complete contempt for voters’ decisions at the 13th general election that Khalid began to display some flashes of the anti-hero.

When he was being openly maligned for being inept and corrupt by the PKR and DAP rottweilers as the basis for his ousting as the MB, Khalid showed amazing team spirit by taking on the role of Kajang by-election organiser and continually putting on his Yogi Bear grin for the cameras. It was like something out of Lu Xun’s “Story of Ah Q” – the classic antihero.

I, for one, could not have stomached such humiliation from the PR rottweillers and still be able to carry on with the Kajang Bad Movie. Again, this bears out Jessica Morrell’s taxonomy of the anti-hero:

“One of the most important qualities to remember is that anti-heroes rarely, if ever, reflect society’s higher values – or what we like to think of as our society’s values; their thinking and values are often antithetical to those of the norm. For example, the sort of traits valued by most members of society – such as honesty, strength, integrity and compassion – will not always be exhibited by an anti-hero in a story. Or, he might have a character arc where he grudgingly adopts some of these traits. Traditional depictions of main players were of good guys with traits that we all wanted to emulate. Anti-heroes turn that assumption upside down.”

Khalid, like most anti-hero characters who come with flaws, neuroses and “issues”, possess an underlying pathos. There is always something that is screwing up the anti-hero’s plan – perhaps it is from his past. Can Khalid escape from the past and be redeemed or transformed in the end?

Wait for the next episode of “Desperate Politicians”. Let’s hope the fat gentleman does not disappoint by failing to sing.

Kua Kia Soong is Suaram adviser

England's Lampard quits internationals

LONDON (Reuters) - England midfielder Frank Lampard has retired from international football after winning 106 caps, he said on Tuesday.

England's Lampard reacts after their 2014 World Cup Group D soccer match against Costa Rica at the Mineirao stadium in Belo Horizonte

The 36-year-old was released by Chelsea in May after 13 years at the London club and he signed for New York City before agreeing to move to Manchester City on a six-month loan deal.

Lampard scored 29 goals for England and captained the team in their last group match against Costa Rica at this year's World Cup in Brazil.

-Reutes

Pairin elaborates on quit talk

ligawu_pairinTENOM: Parti Bersatu Sabah President Joseph Pairin Kitingan said today that he would reveal the name of his successor only “when the time comes”.

Elaborating on a remark he made last Saturday that his retirement may not be far off, Pairin said in a media statement that the person replacing him should not deviate from the original struggle and traditions of the party.

“Who should replace me is not the important question,” he said. “The focus and agenda of PBS should be the priority.”

Pairin said the second and third echelon leaders in the party must at all times be mindful of developing situations and approach them in ways that would keep the party’s struggle relevant.

“Party members need to be creative, committed and proactive in carrying out their duties, in conveying the party policies to the people, especially the younger generation.”

He called on members to consolidate the spirit of unity to ensure that PBS remain “in the hearts of the people” and keep the respect of its counterparts in Barisan Nasional.

“I believe that in the absence of unity and respect in the PBS family, the party will not succeed in its mission and vision to continue the struggle for the people of Sabah,” he said.

He urged those appointed to the highest positions in the party to get their priorities right and to place unity and the common good above all else.

He said the party had no place for those who wanted to turn the party into a springboard for self-serving agendas.

-FMT

Political situation extends Khalid’s MB tenure

The Sultan of Selangor has delayed accepting Khalid Ibrahim’s resignation as the Menteri Besar because the political situation has caused too much public unrest. Khalid told reporters this after his audience with the Sultan today.

IMG-20140826-WA0004_resizedHe said he apologised to the Sultan for the political developments that have involved the palace.

Referring to the Sultan’s directive to PAS, PKR and DAP to nominate candidates for the Menteri Besar’s post, he said, “I am confident that the Sultan will have the people and the state in mind in his decision.”

Khalid also said the Sultan made no comments about PKR’s choice of its president, Wan Azizah Ismail, as its candidate.

According to Khalid, the Sultan indicated that PAS, PKR and DAP should nominate more than two candidates. He said this was standard practice, going back to the days when Barisan Nasional was in power in the state.

“I won’t say anything about whether the MB must be Selangor-born; it’s up to the Sultan,” he said.

“I’ll continue with the four PAS Excos until a new MB is chosen.”

Khalid also said he would not accept it if any party were to nominate him as MB.

He said he was happy to leave the job and refused to comment on whether he would join PAS.

-FMT

DAP chimes in on PAS’ netball fiasco

DAP wants PAS to review their decision to ban male audiences from netball games in Kelantan.

DAP’s Assistant National Publicity Secretary and MP for Kulai, Teo Nie Ching wants to know how PAS would deal with other sports that involve active movement, like badminton, basketball, and track & field, and what purpose does PAS have behind the ban.

Kelantan-Bn-Pas300

“Or perhaps the purpose of the Kelantan government is to bar women from being watched? Netball is a healthy sport. Provided all the female athletes are properly attired for the game, why should they be ashamed of participating in front of a mixed-gender crowd?”, she asked in a press statement.

She also gave examples of female Muslim athletes who have competed at the world level such as Russian gymnast Aliya Mustafina and German footballer Fatmire Bajramaj.

Listing their accomplishments in the Olympics, Teo posed the question that “There are many more respectable and outstanding Muslim female athletes around the world. Why should we bar them from being seen by the world?”

She encouraged the Kelantan government to “widen its horizon” the same way Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Brunei had rescinded their ban on female athletes competing in front of mixed-gender crowds in the 2012 Olympic Games. -FMT

Monday, August 25, 2014

Police probe into couple’s semi-naked walk in Ipoh

olice are investigating photographs of a half-naked couple crossing a road in Ipoh, after the images were shared on mobile messaging app WhatsApp.

Bernama reports that police sent a team to Jalan Sultan Yussuf in Ipoh, where a man wearing black pants without a shirt, was seen carrying a woman clad only in her underwear, while crossing a traffic junction near a CIMB Bank branch.



"An order has been issued to the station police chief and members that if they come across any immoral and indecent behaviour, they should advise or take action to stop it," Ipoh District Acting Police Chief Supt Ahmad Termizi Abdul Haq told Bernama.

Ahmad Termizi added that the couple had already left the scene when the police team arrived.

He said the couple's behaviour was being investigated under Section 41 of the Minor Offences Act 1955 for indecent behaviour.

Social media were abuzz with photos of the couple, said to be models. It is believed that they were accompanied by a crew and were in a wedding photography session.

This is the second such incident since the so-called “Penang Nude Sports Games 2014” was exposed in a viral online video last month, involving 15 Malaysians and foreigners who appeared naked in a beach in Teluk Bahang.

Police said they include seven Malaysians, four Singaporeans, two Myanmar nationals and one each from India and the Philippines. Police have also sought help help from Interpol to track the foreigners.

The event triggered a public outcry, and photographs of the participants were released. Two women have been arrested to facilitate investigation. – tmi

Thousands to lose jobs in MAS restructuring

bout a quarter of Malaysia Airlines' 20,000 employees are likely to lose their jobs under a restructuring plan for the loss-making airline hit by two separate jet disasters this year, a source with direct knowledge of the matter said.



The restructuring plan, due to be unveiled later this week, will include route cuts, as well as the loss of up to 5,000-6,000 jobs, according to the source, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The carrier's majority owner, Khazanah Nasional Bhd, is expected to announce the plan to restructure the firm as early as August 28. Khazanah, which owns 69.37% of the airline, formally known as Malaysian Airline System Bhd (MAS), said earlier this month it is taking MAS private in a RM1.37 billion deal.

MAS is due to announce second-quarter results on August 28 that are expected to show losses expanding. MAS has been struggling with a slump in business since the unexplained disappearance of Flight MH370 in March tipped the airline into its worst quarterly performance in two years in January-March.

Its problems deepened on July 17 when its Flight MH17 was shot down over Ukraine, killing all 298 people on board. The airline is now set to post one of its weakest performance in the April-June quarter, hit by due to cancelled bookings, weak passenger yields and high overheads, according to analysts.

The same source told Reuters in July that Khazanah planned to de-list the airline, which has recorded a net loss for the past three years, and announce the restructuring plan as early as the end of August.

A Khazanah spokesperson said it does not comment on speculation.

Prime Minister Najib Razak, who is chairman of Khazanah, still has to sign off on a restructuring plan for the carrier that is politically sensitive.

While 5,000-6,000 job losses would signal a drastic downsizing of the firm, analysts have said many staff could be offered jobs at other government-run firms to soften the blow to them and their families. About 13,000 MAS workers are unionized, belonging to the MAS Employees Union.

The airline and its key stakeholders are in talks with banks for an overhaul that could include the partial sale of its engineering unit and an upgrade of its ageing fleet, sources involved in the discussions have told Reuters.

The plan is also expected to bring in a new chief executive and replace other senior executives.
Shares of MAS ended unchanged at 25.5 sen on Monday. The stock has dropped 17.7% year to date, compared with a 0.2% rise in the benchmark index. – Reuters/tmi

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Apple iPhone 6 production hit due to screen snag

Suppliers to Apple are scrambling to get enough screens ready for the new iPhone 6 smartphone as the need to redesign a key component disrupted panel production ahead of next month’s expected launch, supply chain sources said.

Apple iPhone 6 production hit due to screen snag

It’s unclear whether the hiccup could delay the launch or limit the number of phones initially available to consumers, the sources said, as Apple readies larger-screen iPhones for the year-end shopping season amid market share loss to cheaper rivals.

But the issue highlights the risks and challenges that suppliers face to meet Apple’s tough specifications, and comes on the heels of a separate screen technology problem, since resolved, in making thinner screens for the larger iPhone 6 model.

Cupertino, California-based Apple has scheduled a media event for Sept. 9, and many expect it to unveil the new iPhone 6 with both 4.7 inch (11.94 cm) and 5.5 inch (13.97 cm) screens – bigger than the 4-inch screen on the iPhone 5s and 5c.

Two supply chain sources said display panel production suffered a setback after the backlight that helps illuminate the screen had to be revised, putting screen assembly on hold for part of June and July. One said Apple, aiming for the thinnest phone possible, initially wanted to cut back to a single layer of backlight film, instead of the standard two layers, for the 4.7-inch screen, which went into mass production ahead of the 5.5-inch version.

But the new configuration was not bright enough and the backlight was sent back to the drawing board to fit in the extra layer, costing precious time and temporarily idling some screen assembly operations, the source said.

Output is now back on track and suppliers are working flat-out to make up for lost time, the supply chain sources added.

Japan Display Inc, Sharp Corp and South Korea’s LG Display Co Ltd have been selected to make the iPhone 6 screens, the sources said.

Representatives for those three suppliers, and for Apple, declined to comment.


WIDER IMPACT

Apple is known to make tough demands on its parts suppliers for new iPhones and iPads as it competes to create designs, shapes, sizes and features to set it apart and command a premium price in a fiercely competitive gadget market.

This can cause glitches and delays, including screen problems that crimped supplies at last year’s launch of a high-resolution version of Apple’s iPad Mini.

It also highlights the danger for suppliers of depending too heavily on Apple for revenues, creating earnings volatility.

Earlier this month, Japan Display, said to be the lead supplier for the new iPhone panel, said orders for “a large customer” – which analysts said was Apple – arrived as expected, but shipments may be delayed in the July-September quarter.

Japan Display’s reliance on Apple’s cyclical business has spooked some investors. UBS Securities has forecast that Apple will contribute more than a third of the Japanese firm’s total revenue in the year to March 2015. Japan Display’s share price dropped to a 12-week low of 501 yen after first-quarter earnings on Aug. 7 lagged market expectations.

In Taiwan, home to several Apple suppliers and assemblers, export orders grew less than expected in July, even as factories rushed output ahead of new smartphone launches, reflecting the erratic nature of the business.

“Currently, there’s a small shortage in supply of a specialised component for our communication devices,” said a spokesman for Pegatron, which assembles iPhones. “This kind of problem regularly occurs and the impact on production is negligible.”

Supply chain sources had previously said challenges with the new iPhone’s screen in-cell technology, which eliminates one of the layers in the LCD screen to make it thinner, caused a delay in the production of the larger 5.5-inch version. One display industry source said the in-cell issues had now been resolved.

The pressure on Apple for stand-out products has increased as Samsung Electronics Co and, more recently, a clutch of aggressive, lower-cost Chinese producers such as Xiaomi Inc and Lenovo Group Ltd have eroded the U.S. company’s market dominance.

The iPhone 6 unveiling has been widely anticipated to bolster momentum for Apple shares, which have risen by a third, to above $100 each, since the company posted strong first-quarter earnings in late-April.

Reuters