Latest news with #CHANTAKKONG
The Star
4 days ago
- Sport
- The Star
Safee says clubs must play a more active role in nurturing homegrown talent
Interview bekas pemain bola sepak kebangsaan yang juga Presiden PFAM untuk ruangan Metropolitan amp, Obses. 28 JUNE 2023一CHAN TAK KONG/The Star PETALING JAYA: Malaysian football great Safee Sali is hopeful that the upcoming Super League season will serve as a springboard for emerging local talent - players who could one day lead Harimau Malaya on the international stage. Concerns have been raised recently over the lack of youth involvement in top flight football, with just 11 per cent of first-team starters aged between 20 and 24. This trend has stirred anxiety, particularly within national team circles, as preparations for the 2030 World Cup qualifiers intensify ahead of the next phase in 2027. Safee believes clubs must play a more active role in nurturing homegrown talent under national coach Peter Cklamovski's long-term vision. "The influx of foreign players has lifted the league's quality but local youngsters need minutes," he said. "We want to see new faces breaking through, gaining experience, making their mark." As someone who once carried Malaysia's attacking hopes, Safee knows the value of trust and game time. Now 41, the former striker is calling on clubs to look beyond short term gains and toward building a sustainable future for Malaysian football. "We have to think bigger - how the league can feed into the national team. That's the ultimate goal." Ahead of the new campaign, Safee pointed to several developments that have piqued his interest. Among them is the return of Brunei's club to the competition, strengthened by the arrival of striker Syafiq Ahmad. "It's refreshing to see Brunei back. With Syafiq joining them, it adds flavour to the competition and raises the bar," he added. He is also keen to watch the resurgence of clubs like Selangor, Negri Sembilan, and perennial powerhouse Johor Darul Ta'zim - all of whom will be looking to assert their dominance in the revamped top flight. All eyes will be on the curtain raiser - the Charity Shield clash between JDT and Selangor at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium in Iskandar Puteri today. For Safee, it's more than just an opener - it is a benchmark for the league's competitive edge. "These early matches show where our football stands - in terms of intensity, quality, and ambition. It sets the tone for what's to come."
The Star
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Flag-raising campaign makes pit stop in PJ
Mohammad Zahri (second row, sixth from right) launching the 'Kibar Jalur Gemilang' campaign in Petaling Jaya ahead of National Day. — Photos: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star The 'Kibar Jalur Gemilang' programme in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, kicked off with a bustling day of activities at Laman MBPJ. The event is part of the broader 'Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang' (KMJG) campaign in conjunction with National Day celebrations. The Petaling Jaya programme in Jalan Yong Shook Lin saw a gathering of about 1,500 people including residents, representatives of educational and financial institutions, hospitals, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the private sector. The 'Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang' convoy being flagged off. Activities included a colouring contest, food truck sales, seedling giveaways, PJ Eco Free Market, Library on Wheels and lucky draw. A 50% membership discount for the PJ community library was also offered. Among the visitors was Nurul Ain Manan, who brought her children to help them gain a deeper appreciation of the country's independence. 'The National Day programme allows us to experience the spirit of independence and patriotism. I want my children to see that. 'Although we can access information about Merdeka, it's not always accurate online and can be misinterpreted,' she said. The event was launched by Petaling Jaya mayor Mohamad Zahri Samingon, who also flagged off the KMJG convoy. The convoy featured 98 participants and 62 vehicles from various federal and state government agencies including MBPJ, the Information Department and Selangor Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission. The programme received support as well from the Harley Davidson Club PJ, which turned up with 10 high-powered motorcycles. Selangor Information Department director Kazidi Mohd Zainudin said Selangor was the fourth state in the KMJG convoy route after Johor, Melaka and Negri Sembilan. The day before, the convoy passed through Sepang district where the baton was handed over by a Negri Sembilan representative to the Selangor counterpart. 'Petaling Jaya is the second checkpoint in Selangor after Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi. 'The next checkpoint is in Sabak Bernam, where residents will welcome the convoy before the baton is passed to the Perak team, the fifth state of the KMJG convoy's journey,' said Kazidi. He added that the campaign's aim was to ignite the patriotic spirit through the flying of the Jalur Gemilang and encouraging everyone to raise the flag at their homes, business premises and on vehicles throughout the National Day period. Mohamad Zahri said the Information Department had approached Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) earlier this month to collaborate. 'We are giving our full support for the flag-off of KMJG. 'Today, we held eight of the 24 programmes lined up under KMJG. 'The programmes covered themes such as nationhood, community, arts, sports and public health,' he said. Among the programme highlights is the International Aikido Shudokan Training Camp on Aug 22, which will attempt a Malaysia Book of Records entry with 1,000 Malaysian women participants. A wide range of National Day-themed activities will take place until Sept 16. In conjunction with Malaysia chairing Asean, the Placemaker Week Asean seminar will also be held from Aug 27 to 30.
The Star
02-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Putra Heights inferno: Victims seek extension of temporary aids
Houses and cars destroyed by the gas pipeline inferno at Putra Heights. – CHAN TAK KONG/The Star PETALING JAYA: Victims affected by the gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights are hoping the temporary aids be extended, as some has recently expired. This includes aids for rental homes, cars and motorcycles provided by various parties. Two months after the incident on April 1, some victims are now in a tight spot as they are required to return the aid. Mohamad Nasir Ab Hamid, 69, a resident of Kampung Kuala Sungai Baru said his family is currently staying in a small house near their original home with rental support for three months while waiting for their house to be repaired. "My house was deemed a total loss, with an estimated repair cost of RM150,000, but to this day, the appointed contractor has yet to begin work,' he told Bernama on Monday (June 2). Mohamad Nasir said he understands that it will take time, as many other homes were also destroyed in the incident. "When the contractor starts the repairs, I want to see how they will go about it. We've yet to be informed how the process will be carried out,' he said. Mohamad Nasir said the temporary vehicle he received after the incident was returned last month when the loan period ended. "We're not looking for luxury - just a car that can serve our everyday needs,' said the father of nine. His wife, Aliyah Ismail, 55, said she was grateful for the assistance received but hoped that cash compensation would also be provided to help victims, especially those left homeless. Previously a catering business operator, she now sells traditional cakes and snacks, earning between RM20 and RM30 a day, in addition to financial support from her children. Aliyah said so far, her family has only been informed of assistance for home repairs. "As of now, we haven't heard anything about compensation - only about home repairs. Compensation should be given. We have no money, no income. Rental is expensive. "Goods are expensive too, and to restart my catering business, I need to buy a lot of supplies and equipment because everything was destroyed in the fire,' she said. The gas pipeline inferno on April 1 saw flames reaching over 30m high, with temperatures soaring to 1,000 degrees Celsius. It took nearly eight hours to fully extinguish the blaze. Eighty-one homes were completely destroyed with structural damage exceeding 40 per cent, another 81 were partially damaged, 57 were affected by heat but not burned, while 218 homes remained unscathed. — Bernama
The Star
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
'First Wives' actress Mimi Lana values being independent even after marriage
Mimi Lana is proud of her latest drama, 'First Wives'. Photo: CHAN TAK KONG/The Star Actress Mimi Lana says she's found personal resonance in her role in the series First Wives . The eight-episode action drama is Mimi's first starring project since getting married to fellow actor Syafiq Kyle on Feb 14, 2025. First Wives is centres around childhood friends Diyana (Mimi Lana) and Michelle (Melissa Campbell) who feel betrayed by their respective husbands. Diyana learns her spouse Azzim (played by Malek McCrone) has secretly married another woman. Michelle, meanwhile, discovers her partner Roshan (Charles Roberts) has gambled away their life savings, leaving them in debt to the shady Toa Seng (Andy Teh). Diyana and Michelle then devise a plan to break in to Azzim's safe and steal the money to help pay off Roshan's debt. However, when their plan goes south, the two women must save each other to avoid landing on the police radar. Mimi Lana (right) and Melissa Campbell became close while making 'First Wives'. Photo: Handout The 29-year-old reflected on how she feels more sad than angry for her character, Diyana, who learns that her husband has not been honest or faithful. 'When a woman loves deeply, she's often willing to give up everything for her partner. 'That kind of love and commitment is amazing – but also heartbreaking when it's not appreciated,' said Mimi, who had an on-off romantic relationship with Syafiq for eight years. The couple got engaged in 2023 but broke up seven months later, only to reconcile and marry in 2025. Thinking about her own life changes, the newlywed admitted that transitioning from girlfriend to wife brought new insights. 'There are a lot of differences I feel now that he is my husband. 'And only now I realise that being a wife is a big responsibility too and sometimes difficult as well,' Mimi said. But one thing that she feels strongly about is that everyone – regardless of gender – needs to be independent after marriage, a theme she said the series First Wives showcases. 'Characters like Diyana and Michelle represent many women who, when they get married, end up devoting themselves entirely to the home. 'Some even become so dependent that they don't know how to pay bills or manage household matters on their own. 'Being independent doesn't always mean having a career. Independence comes in many forms,' she said. 'Women need to be active participants in their lives and marriages – not just rely on the idea that 'the man must provide everything'. 'In a marriage, there are two people involved. Both have to be present in that relationship,' Mimi added. In her own marriage, Mimi shared that she and Syafiq had discussed boundaries around work even before tying the knot – 'and we both know what we should and shouldn't do'. In fact, Mimi said that at the moment, she is spending most of her time fulfilling her responsibilities as a wife, since she has not yet started filming. 'Alhamdulillah, all blessings come from Allah, and so far, there haven't been any issues with managing my time. 'We only got married two months ago... Please pray that everything goes smoothly for us,' said Mimi, who was last seen on the big screen in the 2024 blockbuster The Experts alongside Syafiq. What struck Mimi about First Wives was also how the series focuses on women supporting one another and not competing or tearing each other down – a message of friendship and solidarity they are proud to be associated with. Elaborating on her social media, she wrote: ' First Wives is not just a show, it's a celebration of the strength and beauty of sisterhood. Here's to strong women and the bonds that hold us together.' Sharing with the media that First Wives was one of the most enjoyable projects she's worked on, the Most Promising Actress nominee at the 2021 Malaysia Film Festival said: 'Melissa and I got really comfortable with each other on set. She speaks English and I speak Malay – it was like chicken and duck – but we really enjoyed ourselves making this series.' First Wives is available on Astro On Demand and Astro Go. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MIMS (@missmimilana)
The Star
25-04-2025
- The Star
Seven ways to unwind in Putrajaya
After a long week at work, people often want to spend quality time with family and friends, unwinding over fun activities or a nice meal. Most may know Putrajaya as the country's administrative capital but to its residents, the city also has a more enjoyable side. Amid the bustling city, which is known for its modern architecture, are several recreational areas catering to different interests. The city also has dedicated green spaces filled with flora and fauna for residents and visitors to explore. Here are some places to hang out, have fun or just discover while you are in the city. Ayer@8 Where: Precinct 8 Fee: Free entry Visitors enjoying leisure time with family and friends at Ayer@8, Putrajaya - Putrajaya Corporation (PPJ) Inspired by the promenades in Venice, Italy, this waterfront hub turns into a vibrant area in the evenings. Multi-seater bicycles, children's rides and e-scooters are among rentals available from vendors at RM10 or more. Decorative structures decked out in LED lights also provide Instagrammable backdrops by the lakeside for visitors. Food-wise, more than 10 restaurants and cafes in the area offer a range of options, including local, Middle-Eastern and Thai dishes. Climbing Challenge Park Where: Precinct 5 Enthusiasts trying out the climbing walls at the Climbing Challenge Park. Fee: RM6 for adults and RM3 for students. Equipment such as harnesses, shoes and chalk bags are available for rent at a separate cost. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, this centre gives everyone a chance to try rock climbing without leaving the city. There are five different zones, from beginner to advanced, with the walls reaching up to 20m in height. A climbing wall is also available for children with extra safety mats to cushion any falls. Regular route updates keep the climbing challenges new and exciting for thrill-seekers. This rock climbing spot is also a unique escape from daily life. Putrajaya Steps Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Free entry Putrajaya Steps at the biggest roudabout in the world. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star There are plenty of nature trails all around Putrajaya but if you have limited time, then you should head to Putrajaya Steps. Situated in Taman Putra Perdana, the 250-step stairway is built at the Guinness World Record-certified biggest roundabout in the world. Those who make it to the top are greeted by a small garden with a tower. But more importantly, visitors get an unbeatable panoramic view of Putra Mosque and the Prime Minister's Office from the highest step. Putrajaya Equestrian Park Where: Precinct 5 Fee: Horse rides cost RM10 for children and RM15 for adults A visitor getting ready to go on a guided ride at the equestrian park. This 28ha equestrian park offers horseback riding and a peek into the equestrian world. It has played host to national and international equestrian competitions, including show jumping and dressage events. Guided horse rides give first-timers an easy introduction to the sport. The ride also provides guests with an exceptional view of Putrajaya's iconic architecture from within the park. Lessons are available for those wanting to learn how to ride on their own. After a day of activities, you can relax at the on-site cafe, which offers light bites. Agriculture Heritage Park Where: Precinct 16 Fee: RM5 for locals and RM10 for foreigners Visitors learning traditional farming methods with a guide at Agriculture Heritage Park. Visitors can find a variety of local produce on sale alongside a working farm at this park. The park also offers a glimpse into traditional farming methods for crops such as padi. Guides are on hand to explain the process of rubber tapping as well as harvesting cacao and coffee. Local fruits such as durian, jackfruit and mangosteen and a selection of herbs and spices can be found on the farm too. Lake Recreation Centre Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Water rides are RM10 to RM25 on weekdays and RM15 to RM30 on weekends Visitors enjoying their time on the water at Lake Recreation Centre. - Putrajaya Corporation If chilling by the lake and water activities are your cup of tea, this centre is a must-visit. The laid-back atmosphere and calm Putrajaya lake provides a serene experience for visitors. For those keen to get on the water, paddle boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can be rented from the centre. Anglers are often spotted fishing here and if you want to give it a try, fishing rods are also available for rent. Cycling trails Where: All throughout the city Fee: Free entry Residents cycling on one of many trails in the city. The city is a cycling paradise for enthusiasts as there are tracks that snake throughout Putrajaya, including neighbourhoods and parks. These trails are well maintained, according to cyclists, and offer enjoyable rides at different difficulties. It is a good way to explore the buildings and natural landscape without breaking the bank. Putrajaya Wetlands Park and Botanical Garden are worth a visit if you have the time, as cyclists often get the opportunity to observe wildlife along the trails. Be sure to check opening hours before embarking on a journey at either park as both places are not open all-day long.
