Latest news with #Foong
The Star
4 days ago
- The Star
Legal duties and risks of being a bailor
PETALING JAYA: Standing surety or becoming bailor for an accused in a criminal case may seem like an act of support or kindness, but it comes with serious legal responsibilities and financial risks, say lawyers. If the accused failed to show up in court, the bailor will be held responsible and stands to have the bail amount forfeited, they reminded. Seasoned criminal law lawyer Kitson Foong said a surety's duty was to ensure that the accused appeared at all court proceedings. 'If the accused fails to show up, the court may issue a warrant of arrest (for the accused) and require the surety to explain the absence. 'If the explanation is unsatisfactory, the court can forfeit the entire bail amount, as provided under Section 404 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC). 'In such cases, the surety must attend court and may be ordered to show cause as to why the bond should not be forfeited. They may lose the full amount posted,' he said. However, the law does provide a way out, Foong revealed, adding that a bailor who feared the accused absconding could apply to the court to be released from their bond any time under Section 393 of the CPC. 'Upon application, the court will immediately issue a warrant to bring the accused before it and direct the latter to find a new surety. If a replacement cannot be found, the accused may be taken into custody,' he explained. Foong advised anyone considering becoming a bailor to ensure that the accused is a 'trusted person' who is unlikely to abscond – and be prepared to lose the bail amount, just in case. They must also not accept money or any benefit in exchange for standing bail, he said. Lawyer R. Ramesh Sivakumar said a bailor should preferably be a friend or family member of the accused. In the event no family member or friend is willing to post bail, a third party may agree to take the risk by posting bail, he added. 'It is not necessary for the bailor to use his own money. It is also not an offence for others to help. 'While not illegal, relying on others for the security could raise questions about the surety's genuine commitment or the accused's ability to comply with bail conditions. The court may scrutinise such situations closely,' he added.
New Straits Times
25-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia's first corn-based ethanol plant sets regional benchmark
IPOH: Chemical Industries (Malaya) Sdn Bhd (CIM), a subsidiary of public-listed Hexza Corporation Bhd, has inaugurated its state-of-the-art corn-based ethanol plant in Persiaran Tasek, Ipoh, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth and innovation journey. The new plant exemplifies CIM's unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and the advancement of its operations through modern, circular production methods. In the 1960s, as Malaysia was just beginning to shape its industrial identity, one visionary entrepreneur saw a future powered by ethanol. That man was Datuk Dr Foong Weng Sum, a medical doctor by training, a pioneer in chemical manufacturing and the founder of Hexza, a conglomerate which has been listed on Bursa Malaysia since 1979. Under the Hexza banner, he established CIM as Malaysia's first and largest ethanol producer, marking a historic milestone. At a time when ethanol was largely associated with alcoholic beverages, Dr Foong saw significant industrial potential for ethanol, such as for pharmaceutical, advance manufacturing, cosmetics, fragrance and household care products. His foresight was validated when a large multinational pharmaceutical customer awarded CIM a certificate of recognition for its product quality and service excellence in 1996. "I foresaw a future where ethanol would be indispensable, as a raw material for production across multiple industries and as a bio-fuel. My vision is to position Malaysia as a key player in the ethanol and overall chemical industry space," he said. CIM has a rich legacy as Malaysia's first ethanol producer, having commenced operations in 1962. Today, CIM is Malaysia's largest ethanol producer by capacity and the only manufacturer in the country to use corn as a raw material, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to sustainability and innovation. Hexza executive director Foong Leon Chiew, the eldest son of Dr Foong, said that CIM previously relied on molasses as its primary raw material for ethanol production. He said that changed this year when the company installed a new corn-based ethanol plant with a capacity of up to 10 million litres annually. "The new corn-based ethanol plant will not only underscore CIM's position as the leading ethanol manufacturer in Malaysia with a strong commitment to producing high quality ethanol, but also the company's commitment tow circular economy principles," he said. "In a strategic shift from molasses to corn as a primary feedstock, CIM now produces ethanol through natural fermentation and distillation using high-quality corn from Brazil and Argentina. "A key by-product of this process, called Distiller's Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS), is repurposed into high-value livestock feed, reinforcing CIM's adoption of sustainable production principles. "This makes CIM the first and only manufacturer and supplier of locally produced DDGS in Malaysia, helping to reduce dependence on imported animal feed and supporting both food security and sustainable agriculture. "This transition is not just about capacity expansion and efficiency, but it's also about responsibility," said Foong, who has an engineering degree from the University of Oxford and an MBA degree from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. Foong has previously worked in the investment banking industry for 17 years in Hong Kong. He added that CIM produces a wide range of ethanol products, from 96 per cent industrial ethanol to absolute ethanol, serving diverse industries including pharmaceuticals, advance manufacturing, cosmetics, home care, food and beverages. "Our ethanol has many use cases, such as chemical feedstock or solvent for pharmaceutical products and vaccine development, catheter storage and sterilisation, cosmetics, perfumes, home care products, and food and beverage production. "Through our subsidiary, Bio-Acetic Products, CIM also produces and sells natural vinegar, further strengthening our product line." While the majority of its customers are in Malaysia, Foong said CIM has begun exporting to neighbouring countries such as Singapore, and is exploring opportunities to expand across Southeast Asia. Located at the Tasek Industrial Area in Ipoh, CIM's integrated facility manages the entire ethanol production process in-house, from corn intake and milling to liquefaction, fermentation, distillation and DDGS production. The site also has storage warehouses, bagging lines and a bottling operation, potentially signalling a future return to branded beverage production. "We combine time-tested fermentation and distillation methods with modern monitoring systems. This blend of tradition and technology ensures consistent quality and efficiency. "CIM has had a long-standing presence in Perak. This latest expansion into corn-based ethanol production not only reflects the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability but also reinforces its belief in Perak as a preferred destination for high-value and future-ready investments. "CIM plans to continue to contribute meaningfully to the state's industrial growth, job creation and advancement of a circular economy." Beyond the corn-based operations, Foong said CIM is actively exploring solar power and carbon footprint reduction initiatives as part of its environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy. "We aim to lead not just in volume but also in responsible production. From renewable energy adoption to carbon footprint reduction, we aim to set new benchmarks for the industry." On how the company maintained its leadership in the domestic ethanol market through the years, Foong attributed it to three core drivers: production scale and quality, long-term customer relationships, and a proactive sustainability agenda. "Our corn-based plant allows us to produce 24/7 with minimal waste. We're proud to operate Malaysia's first corn ethanol plant with a strong commitment to ESG. "Quality supply is important, but demand is built on trust. Our customers have stayed with us for decades, thanks to the high quality of our products and the reliability of our logistics and service," he added. Looking ahead, he said CIM is targeting organic growth and potential strategic acquisitions as it pursues regional expansion, product innovation and other growth opportunities. "We are already the national leader. Now, we are targeting to become the regional champion. Our vision is to deliver high-quality ethanol and related products from Malaysia to Southeast Asia and beyond," he said.
The Sun
04-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
JF Tech completes Q3 Probe acquisition to boost vertical integration
KOTA DAMANSARA: Main market-listed leading innovator and manufacturer of high-performance test contacting solutions for global integrated circuit (IC) makers, JF Technology Bhd's wholly-owned subsidiary, JF International Sdn Bhd (JFI), has completed the acquisition of an 80% equity interest in Q3 Probe Pte Ltd for US$1.36 million, or approximately RM6.0 million, from the US-based parent company, Spire Manufacturing Inc (SMI). The group also has the option to acquire the remaining 20% equity interest in Q3 by December 31, 2027. JF Technology managing director Datuk Foong Wei Kuong said this acquisition brings forward momentum as the addition of Q3 is a highly synergistic move. 'It further enhances our vertical integration and elevates the group within the dynamic semiconductor supply chain. 'Q3 Proba's expertise in front-end wafer testing perfectly complements our test engineering solutions business. 'This creates a powerful combination that enables us to expand the business on a global scale,' he said in a statement. Foong said by bringing Q3's capabilities into JF Technology's fold, the company is enhancing its test engineering solutions business and reinforcing its position across the entire semiconductor value chain—from front-end to back-end testing. 'We are now the only provider in Malaysia with such a comprehensive probe card product line,' he said. Foong also noted that this vertical integration is a core pillar of JF Technology's ongoing JF 4.0 Transformation. 'We also plan to set up a production line in Malaysia to produce Q3's products to serve our strong customer base of more than 200 multinational corporations. 'Looking ahead, while we are navigating through a period of heightened geopolitical tensions, we continue to see vast opportunities ahead, especially from the electric vehicle (EV) applications,' he said. Q3 is a specialist in manufacturing probe cards based in Singapore, supplying patented products to its customers. For the financial year ended December 31, 2023, Q3 delivered a net profit of approximately S$231,000 or RM767,000. The acquisition is structured with a 3-year performance earn-out arrangement amounting to US$90,670, or approximately RM401,000, at the end of each calendar year for 3 years post-closing, totaling US$272,010, or approximately RM1.2 million, contingent on meeting the profit guarantee by the vendor.
The Star
26-05-2025
- The Star
Former lecturer sentenced to 10 years for culpable homicide of husband
SEREMBAN: A former lecturer was sentenced to serve 10 years in jail by the High Court here after she pleaded guilty to a charge of causing the death of her husband. Lau Seck Yan, 58, did not contest the charge under Section 304(a) of the Penal Code for culpable homicide not amounting to murder after it was read to her before judge Rohani Ismail on Monday (May 26). Earlier, her counsel, Kitson Foong, told the court that the Attorney General's Chambers had accepted the defence's representation to review the original charge. Lau was initially charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murdering her 55-year-old husband, Poh Seng Hiap. Offenders can be sentenced to death or jailed between 30 and 40 years and whipped upon conviction. She had claimed trial when charged on Jan 28, 2022. Lau, who contested as an Independent candidate in the Port Dickson by-election in 2018, allegedly committed the offence at their home at the Rasah Kemayan Golf and Country Township near here between 3.30pm and 4.30pm on Jan 23, 2022. Poh, an accountant, was reportedly stabbed in the chest and abdomen. The amended charge under Section 304(a) carries a penalty of up to 30 years' imprisonment and a fine upon conviction. Foong told the court that Lau was remorseful and regretted the incident. "It was a tragedy which unfolded from a disagreement between a husband and wife and escalated into a fight. "My client has had a chance to reflect on this while she was in prison for the past three years. "All she wants is to be able to go home to her four daughters and an 88-year-old father," he said. Foong said Lau had also been active in social work as a Buddhist association's president. This was also the first time she had run afoul of the law. Khairunnisa Hazwani Omar prosecuted.
Borneo Post
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Borneo Post
AGG carnival a milestone for local gymnasts
Gymnasts, parents and coaches in a group photo with Lo (seventh left), SAGGA vice president Dr Nur Shahkizza Mohd Jefry (sixth left), Foong (ninth right) and SAGGA officials at the end of the workshop. KUCHING (May 14): The final day of the Sarawak AGG Carnival ended with the AGG School Programme Workshop & Certificate Presentation Ceremony held at Dewan Sa'ati, Sarawak United People's Party (SUPP) Headquarters on Sunday. Organised by the Sarawak Aesthetic Group Gymnastics Association (SAGGA) in collaboration with the Malaysian Aesthetic Group Gymnastics Association (MAGGA), it marked a milestone in introducing Aesthetic Group Gymnastics (AGG) into schools across Sarawak. The workshop was led by MAGGA's head of School Programme and former national gymnast Foong Seow Ting who introduced a specially designed AGG syllabus tailored for three age groups namely Under 10, Under 12, and Under 18. Emphasis was on creative movement, teamwork and artistic expression among students. A special highlight was the AGG performance choreographed by Foong herself, featuring all gymnasts attending the workshop. The carnival set out to highlight the connection between parents, teachers and students to underscore how AGG can be a tool not just for sport but also for building character, identity and togetherness. Batu Kitang state assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang officiated at the closing ceremony and presented certificates to participating students, coaches and facilitators. Participating schools and clubs included Mine Dance Studio; Track and Dance; SJK Chung Hua Sungai Lubak; SJK Chung Hua No. 6; SJK Chung Hua Mile 4 ½; and SJK Sungai Apong. The initiative by SAGGA is part of a broader plan to organise the Sarawak Inter-School AGG Competition scheduled for Aug 16. The Sarawak AGG Carnival, which brought together participants from Sarawak, Selanger and Kuala Lumpur, spanned two days of competition, workshops and special performances to celebrate art, movement and community.
