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The Star
3 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Women's retreat builds resilience
The two-day retreat includes a mindfulness walk at Taman Tasik Permaisuri with a focus on the five senses. — Low Lay Phon/The Star A retreat in conjunction with Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 brought together nearly 100 women from various backgrounds to recharge and inspire one another. Held in Komune Living and Wellness in Bandar Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur, 'Enliven Women 2025' was organised by online-based programme Yoga for Mums. Among the women who benefitted from the overnight retreat was Maisarah Hanum Abd Latib, 40, from Flat PKNS AU2, Taman Keramat in Ampang, Selangor. 'During the mindfulness walk, I walked in silence, observing only what was around me,' the home-based tailor and single mother of five told StarMetro. 'As a busy mother, this gave me space to breathe and reflect, bringing calmness to my mind.' Her fellow participants included B40 mothers, homemakers, working professionals and young corporate employees. Through mindfulness and self-discovery in an emotionally safe space, the women were able to connect, recharge and support one another. For Maisarah and her fellow B40 mums, the retreat was a form of support by social enterprise Thrive Well that seeks to provide trauma-informed mental health services to underserved groups. Chua: Retreat aims to encourage all women to live the best life they can. Thrive Well clinical coordinator Hani Adriana Azman said retreat participants included nine B40 women from Flat PKNS AU2 and PPR Seri Semarak in Kampung Baru Air Panas, Kuala Lumpur. 'These women have completed our basic, advanced and ambassador-level programmes. 'At the ambassador stage, they are able to support mental health peers within their own communities,' she said. Certified mindfulness coach and Yoga for Mums founder Caleen Chua Yen Keng said the retreat was aimed at encouraging women to live the best life they could. Chua also guided participants during a 10-minute silent mindfulness walk at nearby Taman Tasik Permaisuri where they focused on their five senses and let go of judgement. 'In that silence, we uncover our own strength, resilience and calm,' she said. The retreat featured structured sessions including the life wheel workshop, lunch, a mindful eating session, a personal vision workshop, and group reflection and sharing. The initiative was endorsed by Women, Family and Community Development Ministry alongside Malaysia Retail Chain Association's (MRCA) women division. MRCA women division chief Aiveen Wong said the division's tagline 'Empower women, build nation' reflected the movement towards women's empowerment nationwide. 'Today, more women are stepping into the workforce with confidence and ambition,' she said. 'This retreat is about discovering that inner strength and helping each other grow. 'In 2023, women made up nearly half or 15.9 million of Malaysia's population of 33 million. 'That's more than a number, it is a sign of strength, resilience and potential,' she added. Wong said 219,000 females were born that year, representing the country's future women leaders. The event was supported by corporate and brand sponsors.
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India.com
6 days ago
- Business
- India.com
World Turns Cold On Su-57E: Will India Still Consider To Buy Russia's ‘Stealth Beast'?
New Delhi: Su-57E - Russia's fifth-generation stealth fighter - is under scrutiny once again. No country across the globe seems to be interested acquiring the fighter jet despite Moscow's consistent efforts to sell it to countries such as India, Algeria and Malaysia. Rosoboronexport, a Russian defence firm, said that it would put on display the aircraft at the LIMA 2025 International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia. However, the fighter jet, as reported by the media, never made it to the exhibition. In an absence that raised many eyebrows, only a scale model of the jet was showcased at a booth of the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) in the Malaysian exhibition. Malaysia's indifference towards Su-57E in its Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA), India's exit from the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) programme and the fighter aircraft's absence at LIMA 2025 all narrated the same saga - the Russian "Felon" is likely to turn out are a big "failure". Let's understand the Su-57E. It is an export variant of Russian Su-57 fighter jet, which is a fifth-generation stealth aircraft that is armed with cutting-edge missile systems and designed for multi-role operations and radar evasion. It is capable of carrying long-range air-to-air missiles such as R-37M and can strike targets up to 400 kilometres away. Without disclosing the name of the country, a confident Russia had earlier claimed that the first buyer of the jet would start operating it by this year (2025). Algeria was seen as the possible acquirer. But neither the countr nor Russia has so far confirmed the deal. Why is Malaysia delaying its fighter jet programme? Began in 2009, Malaysia's MRCA programme is aimed at replacing its aging MiG-29s. Earlier, the programme featured jets such as Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet, Saab Gripen, Dassault Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon, but the country's focus in recent years seems to have turned towards acquiring fifth-generation or near-fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Malaysia, despite this apparent shift, has not so far made any final decision. As a result, the role of Su-57E remains uncertain. Russia's Continued India Push Meanwhile, Russia continues to try pushing India to buy the Su-57E even after the latter's withdrawal from the FGFA project in 2018. India exited from the project, as reports suggest, because of unsatisfactory performance of the fighter jet and its high cost. Russia apparently has not given up and continues to pursue the deal. It is seeming attempting to capitalise on India's rising need for advanced fighter aircraft. Russia offered India a "Golden Deal" during Aero India 2025 - a mega aerospace and defence exhibition organised at Bangaluru's Yelahanka Air Force Station from February 10 to 14. Moscow offered New Delhi prompt delivery of Su-57E's, its local production in India and assistance in India's indegenous fifth-generation fighter aircraft program (AMCA). Moscow also told India that if it accepts the deal, Indian firms manufacturing the Su-30MKI can soon begin producing the Su-57E. New Approach Post Pakistan Conflict Following recent exchange of firepower with Pakistan in response to the April 22 deadly terror attack on tourists at Baisaran meadows in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, Russia has been aggressively making efforts aimed at promoting the Su-57E. In an interview with Sputnik, a Russian state-run news agency and radia broadcast service, a military observer from Moscow, Igor Korotchenko, said India should, without a second thought, go for acquiring the Su-57MKI that is especially designed for New Delhi and equipped with long-range missiles like the R-37M - keeping its requirements in mind. At the same time, a few Russian bloggers are trying to project Su-57 as superior to the Rafale. They are leaving no stone unturned to urge India to invest in it. New Delhi, however, has not so far respond to the suggestions, either unofficially or officially. It appears that the path for Su-57E's acquisition is not an easy one. It will be interesting to note that whether the fighter jet manages to find a place in the international defense market in the years to come.
![From sky-gazer to sky-master: 'Sting' owns the airways [WATCH]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fassets%2FNST-Logo%402x.png%3Fid%3Db37a17055cb1ffea01f5&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
New Straits Times
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
From sky-gazer to sky-master: 'Sting' owns the airways [WATCH]
LANGKAWI: From the moment he witnessed his first airshow at the age of 11, standing in awe under the roar of fighter jets slicing through the Langkawi sky, Colonel Mohd Norazan Othman knew exactly what he wanted to be. Today, the 46-year-old Langkawi native, known by his call sign "Sting", pilots the Royal Malaysian Air Force's (RMAF) Sukhoi SU-30MKM, the nation's most advanced multi-role combat aircraft (MRCA). "It all began here in Langkawi. I remember looking up at the fighter jets and telling myself, 'one day I'll fly over this very sky'. "And alhamdulillah, that dream came true," he told the New Straits Times. Norazan fulfilled that childhood vow, performing aerobatics over the island at this year's Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima '25), the same skies he once stared up at. This year's Lima held a special meaning as Norazan was entrusted to be the backseater with the air force chief, General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan, in a high-profile aerobatic display. Their eye-catching aircraft was also draped in a special livery, symbolically named "Toruk Makto", after the mythical flying creature from the science fiction film Avatar. "We say only the chosen few can tame this iron beast. "So, in the RMAF, those who can fly it are considered elite, similar to 'Toruk Makto'," he said. Norazan said he joined the RMAF in 1997, and a decade later, began flying the SU-30MKM Flanker. The aircraft, he said, demands high-level mastery, with its complex systems taking years to fully understand. "To fly the SU-30MKM, you must first qualify as a fighter pilot, and that begins with rigorous academic and flight training. "The systems on board require fast learning and exceptional discipline. It's not for just anyone." Now, he leads the very heart of the nation's Sukhoi operations, as the commanding officer of Gong Kedak air base in Terengganu. Asked what advice he had for young Malaysians, especially those who dream of becoming fighter pilots, Norazan offered a message steeped in experience. "You need strong discipline, mental and physical fitness, and a high level of patriotism. "And don't forget English... all the manuals, training, and systems are in English. You have to be ready," he said.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Felons a no-show in LIMA '25 casts doubt over RMAF's MRCA ambitions
The biggest no-shows at this year's Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace exhibition were also meant to be its biggest stars – the two Sukhoi Su-57 'Felons' that never made it to the tarmac at Padang Matsirat. Their absence has thrown cold water on months of breathless speculation that the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) was on the verge of announcing its next-generation multirole combat aircraft (MRCA) purchase. Whispers on the sidelines of LIMA '25 suggest the jets were grounded in Hainan, China, after being refused passage – reportedly by a third party. Some sources claim the presence of the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) in the South China Sea may have prompted a quiet but firm diplomatic block. If true, it's a telling sign of just how geopolitically fraught this region has become. The MRCA programme has been in a state of suspended animation for years, dogged by budget constraints, shifting priorities, and the kind of bureaucratic inertia that has left the RMAF with a shrinking pool of airworthy fighters. The Su-57's intended appearance was widely interpreted as a bold signal – perhaps even a soft launch – that a deal was imminent. But with the Felons failing to turn up, that narrative has started to unravel. For defence watchers, the setback is more than symbolic. Russia's fifth-generation fighter, while wrapped in mystery and shrouded in marketing gloss, was never going to be an easy sell. Its production numbers remain low, its combat record sketchy, and Russia's ability to support such aircraft abroad – especially amid the Ukraine war and Western sanctions – is in question. Even before this hiccup, the Su-57 raised eyebrows among military planners. While it boasts thrust-vectoring engines, high off-boresight missile capabilities, and super-manoeuvrability, none of these features matter much if the aircraft can't be delivered – or worse, can't be sustained. Malaysia's MRCA needs are urgent. The RMAF is grappling with a capability gap that is becoming critical. It has just eight F/A-18D Hornets, 17 Sukhoi Su-30MKMs (of which fewer than 10 are regularly serviceable), and a fleet of ageing Hawk 108/208s. Attrition in a shooting war would be brutal, with too few jets and too many maintenance problems. The Hornets are nearing the end of their lifespan. The plan to acquire 20 to 30 ex-Kuwaiti Hornets – initially seen as a quick fix – now appears to have stalled, despite early momentum and official visits to Kuwait last year. The Su-30MKMs, the pride of the RMAF, are now showing their age. A proposal to upgrade them to 'Super Flanker' status with help from India's HAL was promising – until Sukhoi reportedly threatened to void the warranty. India's military entanglements with Pakistan haven't helped matters either. Meanwhile, the regional arms race continues apace. China's Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-35 are now both operational. Australia has received all 72 of its F-35s, while Singapore's RSAF is expecting 20 by 2030. These platforms bring cutting-edge capabilities in sensor fusion, battlefield networking, and stealth – areas where Malaysia's current fleet lags. Against this backdrop, two new contenders have emerged in the MRCA race: South Korea's KF-21 Boramae and Turkey's TAI Kaan. Both are still in development, but offer promising – and politically less sensitive – alternatives. The Boramae appears to have the inside track. South Korea's defence ties with Malaysia have deepened since the 2023 FA-50 deal, and the KF-21 is further along in testing. It aligns neatly with RMAF's possible heavy-light (hi-lo) fighter mix strategy. The Kaan, while ambitious, is still unproven. Having made its maiden flight in early 2024, it remains a wildcard with little track record. But regardless of the airframe, the MRCA programme faces political and financial headwinds. With no significant hike expected in Budget 2025, any procurement must be staggered and economically palatable. A full-fleet replacement is unlikely in the near term. Sources close to the project say the programme has been quietly shifted out of the 13th Malaysia Plan and may instead be parked under a 'Private Funding Initiative' (PFI). This would allow some degree of flexibility in financing and procurement. That said, the no-show of the Su-57s at LIMA '25 has taken the wind out of the sails. What was supposed to be a high-profile debut now feels like a diplomatic fumble – or another, all-too-familiar cautionary tale. And a major damper on the visitors to LIMA '25. Malaysia's MRCA saga is still far from over. But if this week's drama is anything to go by, the path to a fifth-generation future remains as clouded and contested as the skies over the South China Sea.
![RMAF pilots fuelled by fire within [WATCH]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fimages%2Farticles%2F03nation220525_NSTfield_image_socialmedia.var_1747872043.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
New Straits Times
22-05-2025
- Sport
- New Straits Times
RMAF pilots fuelled by fire within [WATCH]
news@ Not even an interview with the New Straits Times could contain the passion for flying shown by Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Major Mohd Azlan Kasiah and Major Md Zailimi Md Zin. They leapt from their seats and dashed out of the tent mid-interview, drawn by the thunderous roar of two United States Navy F/A18E/F Super Hornets streaking past Langkawi International Airport. The brief interruption during a rainy pause at Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima '25) captured more than awe. It reflected the passion that both pilots have for military aviation, even after years at the helm of the RMAF's formidable F/A-18D Hornets. For Azlan, 34, from Yan in Kedah, the journey to the cockpit of a fighter jet began as a cadet under the diploma programme at the Air Force College. He then underwent the Fighter Lead-In Training (FLIT) on the BAE Systems Hawk aircraft, a prerequisite before graduating to the RMAF's multirole combat aircraft (MRCA). "Before we're assigned to the MRCA, we have to go through vital training first. "Only then are we inducted into the squadron," said Azlan, who has been serving with No. 18 Squadron since 2018 and is now flight instructor and head of flight operations. A seasoned aviator, he views his role in shaping future pilots as an honour and a major responsibility. "Training fighter pilots requires a lot of effort. The F/A-18D is a multirole aircraft, so those who join No. 18 Squadron must be properly prepared. "As an instructor, I have to sacrifice my time, effort and energy to make sure these trainees are competent to conduct frontline operations and defend the nation's sovereignty. "It's a huge responsibility that demands consistency and strong character." Azlan, who made his first Lima appearance in 2019 as a commentator, now plays a more prominent role in the air display team. "I flew as the second slot aircraft in the aerobatic formation. Alhamdulillah, I'm thankful for the opportunity to be part of it." Azlan, when asked about his callsign "Conan", said that it was bestowed during training, inspired by the famous anime detective. "One of my instructors noticed how, when I gave briefings, it felt more like an investigation. That reminded him of Detective Conan, and the name stuck." Meanwhile, Zailimi, who joined the Hornet fleet in 2015 after being posted to No. 18 Squadron, recalled how he received the callsign "Shrink" early in his training, a tongue-in-cheek reference to some early challenges coordinating flight planning and cognitive workload. "There was a particular incident during my Hornet training. My seniors gave me the callsign based on what they observed, hoping I'd improve. "And most pilots do, with experience." By 2017, he had completed his conversion course and was qualified to fly the aircraft solo as a wingman, although senior pilots still flew alongside him at times. Since then, he has participated in numerous air operations and exercises domestically and internationally, including Five Power Defence Arrangement exercises, such as Bersama Lima and Bersama Shield and Exercise Pitch Black in Australia. "That exercise gave me a sense of what a large-scale operation is like. It was a very valuable experience." At Lima '25, Zailimi was entrusted to perform aerial displays with the Hornet, flying alongside Azlan. Addressing their popularity with the public while being the knights protecting Malaysia's skies, Zalimi had a simple message. "May we be granted safety and ease in our tasks. "To fans of military aviation, I invite everyone to come and witness Lima '25, and to continue supporting not only No. 18 Squadron, but also the RMAF and the armed forces. "And to the next generation hoping to follow in our footsteps, you need to put in the effort, have trust in Allah, and have the right intention. "If your intentions are sincere, you pray and work hard, InsyaAllah, you'll get what you aim for." Previous Next
