Latest news with #Umar
New Straits Times
22-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Pineapple industry board backs move to expand exports to New Zealand
JOHOR BARU: The Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) has welcomed New Zealand's proposal to boost Malaysian pineapple imports into the country, calling it a strong endorsement of the fruit's quality and export potential. The proposal follows Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's recent official visit to New Zealand, where the New Zealanders expressed keen interest in sourcing more premium Malaysian pineapples, particularly the MD2 variety. LPNM chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali said the board sees the development as a strategic opportunity to widen Malaysia's high-impact export reach in the Asia-Pacific region. "New Zealand's interest reflects global confidence in the quality, safety, and competitiveness of Malaysian pineapples. This momentum must be seized," he said in a statement today. Two export trial studies conducted by LPNM in October last year, and last month, revealed the country's pineapple-based value-added products such as frozen pineapple cubes, dried chunks, pineapple crisps, pineapple-flavoured ice cream, and energy gels, were well accepted by foreigners. The trials also confirmed compliance with New Zealand's food safety and import standards, he said. LPNM is now working with relevant agencies to assess the country's readiness to meet full export requirements for fresh and processed pineapples. To ensure a sustainable supply and meet rising international demand, LPNM has rolled out several key strategies. These include expanding cultivated land with support from state governments. Sheikh Umar said incentives and training would be provided to smallholders and entrepreneurs to boost productivity and participation. The board is also strengthening supply chain management to ensure smooth distribution from farm to market. In addition, LPNM is prioritising strict adherence to quality and food safety standards through certifications such as MyGAP, GLOBALG.A.P., and HACCP. He added inter-agency cooperation to streamline export procedures, including quarantine compliance and facility audits, were also areas that will be further enhanced. In 2024, Malaysia exported 11,633 metric tonnes of fresh pineapples worth RM23.1 million, 30,735 metric tonnes of processed pineapple products, including juice and canned varieties, to over 20 countries such as China, Singapore, United Arab Emirates, and Japan. The country's total export value of pineapple products last year reached RM1.73 billion. "LPNM remains committed to reinforcing Malaysia's competitiveness in the global tropical fruit market through data-driven, tech-focused and sustainable approaches," Sheikh Umar said. He also extended the board's appreciation to Zahid for promoting pineapples on the global stage, expressing confidence that Malaysia can become a leading global supplier of premium tropical pineapples.
The Star
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia targets New Zealand market for pineapple exports
JOHOR BARU: Malaysia aims to tap into the high-value New Zealand market for pineapples, following strong interest expressed by New Zealand authorities during Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's recent visit to Wellington. Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board (LPNM) Chairman Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali welcomed the development, describing it as a strategic opportunity to expand Malaysia's pineapple exports into markets with high growth potential. "The interest shown by New Zealand reflects growing international recognition of the quality, safety, and competitiveness of Malaysian pineapples, especially the premium MD2 variety, which is increasingly popular among global consumers," he said on Tuesday (July 22). He added the board had conducted two trial export studies to New Zealand, in October last year and June this year, featuring value-added pineapple products such as frozen pineapple cubes, dried chunks, pineapple chips, ice cream, and energy gels. "The trials received encouraging feedback in terms of flavour, packaging quality, and compliance with New Zealand's food safety and import standards. "LPNM is currently working with relevant agencies to assess Malaysia's readiness and capacity to meet New Zealand's strict export requirements," he said. Sheikh Umar added that LPNM is committed to ensuring Malaysia can supply sufficient and consistent volumes of high-quality pineapples to meet international demand. To support this goal, LPNM has implemented several strategic initiatives such as expanding pineapple cultivation areas, supporting growers and entrepreneurs, optimising the supply chain, and focusing on quality and food safety. Sheikh Umar also said that according to 2024 data, Malaysia exported 30,735 metric tonnes of pineapple-based products including juices, canned pineapples, ornamental varieties, and agro-industrial technology (IAT) goods. "Fresh pineapple exports amounted to 11,633 metric tonnes, valued at RM23mil, to over 20 countries including China, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, and Japan. "Malaysia's total pineapple export value for 2024 stood at RM1.73bil. These efforts reflect our commitment to strengthening the competitiveness of Malaysia's pineapple industry through data-driven, technology-enabled, and market-focused strategies," he added. Sheikh Umar expressed appreciation to Ahmad Zahid for his continued efforts in promoting Malaysia's agricultural products, especially pineapples, on the international stage. "With the support of all stakeholders, we are confident that Malaysia can emerge as a leading global producer of high-quality tropical pineapples," he added. On Friday, Ahmad Zahid said that he found out during his five-day working visit that Malaysian pineapples were highly sought after in New Zealand. "There is a high demand for our pineapples due to their quality, texture, and sweetness. However, export of Malaysian pineapples is currently very limited," he said. Among the popular varieties with New Zealanders is the MD2 pineapple, considered a premium type known for its sweetness, low acidity, and fragrant aroma. The MD2, sold locally and exported, is also known by trade names such as "Golden Ripe," "Super Sweet," "Rompine," or "Gold." Malaysian MD2 pineapples are currently exported to several regions, including the Middle East and Europe. Johor is the largest producer of MD2 pineapples in Malaysia, with other states like Perak also involved in their cultivation. The MD2 pineapple is a key crop under Malaysia's Economic Transformation Programme, targeted for increased production to meet both domestic and export demands. Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister, plans to discuss increasing pineapple cultivation with Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu. "I will also request the Selangor, Pahang, Johor, and Melaka state governments to increase pineapple cultivation on a large scale," he added, noting the vast potential for expanding exports due to high demand.
The Hindu
15-07-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Hope rises in saving Malayali nurse Nimisha Priya facing execution in Yemen as talks progress
The fate of Nimisha Priya, the Malayali nurse facing execution in Yemen, appears to be brightening up following the intervention of Indian Grand Mufti and Sunni leader Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliar. Discussions are currently under way to save Nimisha Priya from death. A meeting with the family of the deceased Yemeni national is scheduled on Tuesday (July 15, 2025) at 10 a.m. local time in Yemen. Mr. Musliar intervened in the case through his friend and renowned Yemeni scholar Sheikh Habib Umar. As per Mr. Umar's request, a close relative of the deceased and the Chief Justice of Hudaydah State Court have reportedly arrived at Damar, Yemen, to take part in the discussions, said sources close to Mr. Musliar. Mr. Umar is a member of the Yemen Shura Council and a follower of the Sufi order. The victim's family has agreed to reconsider their stance following the intervention of Mr. Umar. The discussions are aimed at reaching a final decision on accepting the blood money and finding a reprieve for Nimisha. Musliar's request to Yemeni govt Meanwhile, Mr. Musliar requested the Yemeni government to stay the execution. The Yemeni government, according to sources, is likely to consider this request. The case has been emotionally charged given the tribal and local significance of the incident in Yemen.
The Irish Sun
11-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Teen star of Freddie Flintoff's BBC show Field of Dreams Umar Mahmood ‘lost control of his car' before fatal crash
TEENAGER Umar Mahmood, who appeared on Freddie Flintoff's BBC show Field of Dreams, lost control of his car before fatally crashing, an inquest has heard. The 18-year-old was driving an Audi A3 Sport when it Advertisement 4 Umar Mahmood (left) featured on Freddie Flintoff's show Field of Dreams in 2022 Credit: BBC 4 The 18-year-old (right) tragically lost his life after being involved in a high-speed crash which also lead to the death of a passenger, 16, in the same car Credit: BBC 4 Flintoff's show aimed to inspire teenagers - who had never considered playing cricket - to get involved with the sport Credit: PA In addition to Umar losing his life, Adam Bodi, 16, was also fatally injured in the crash while the other passenger - aged 17 at the time - was seriously hurt. Umar had featured on the former England cricketer's show about youth cricket, where the star sought to build a team of 11 teenagers from under-privileged parts of Lancashire. An inquest into the deaths at Preston Coroner's Court was told that the car Umar was driving in had reached speeds of approximately 80mph while in a 30mph zone before it left the road. The inquest heard that the vehicle hit the kerb four times before colliding with two trees and overturning on its side, leading to the tragic deaths of both teenagers. Advertisement Read More on UK News Adam, who had been travelling in the backseat of the car and had not been wearing a seat belt, died in hospital on September 11 while Umar passed away the following day. The 16-year-old's death came just weeks after getting his GCSE results. Coroner Kate Bissett said the teenagers' deaths had been caused by "a terrible misjudgement" and were an "utter tragedy". Umar's former school, Penwortham Priory Academy, described him as "bright, studious and well-loved". Advertisement Most read in The Sun Exclusive The school said at the time of the tragedy: "We are again saddened as a school to hear the news that Umar Mahmood, who was in the same accident as Adam, and who left Priory 2 years ago, has also passed away. "Umar was a bright, studious and well-loved member of our school community. Freddie Flintoff coaching Umar Mahmood in the first series of the BBC documentary Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams "He had a passion for Geography as well as his cricket, playing for Priory's school team and appearing in the BBC One documentary 'Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams'." It added that it was a "privilege" for those at the school to have known Umar - a "young man who was always considerate to those around him and who showed ambition and kindness in all that he did." Advertisement Umar's dad also paid an "I am very sad. His mother is doing OK but we are very sad." Flintoff's show Field of Dreams saw the then 46-year-old return to his hometown of Preston on a mission to prove that anyone can play sport, regardless of their background. Umar was one of a handful of teenagers given the opportunity to feature on the show, which aimed to inspire a new generation of kids to play cricket. Advertisement The show's second series TRAGIC LOSS OF 'FANTASTIC YOUNG MAN' Following the tragic deaths of the teens, tributes were also paid to Adam by the pair's school. It described the 16-year-old as a "fantastic young man" who had a "fantastic sense of humour." They said: "Adam was an amazing pupil, of whom we have nothing but fantastic memories. Advertisement "He was popular, bright, confident and had a fantastic sense of humour alongside being a first-class footballer, who had been part of our football team here at Priory for five years. "We know that the rest of his year group will be equally upset at losing one of their own. "Adam was a fantastic young man, and he, his family and friends are very much in our thoughts and prayers." 4 Umar Mahmood was driving at approximately 80mph in a 30mph zone at the time of the crash, an inquest has heard Credit: Penworth Priory Academy Advertisement
Scottish Sun
11-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Teen star of Freddie Flintoff's BBC show Field of Dreams Umar Mahmood ‘lost control of his car' before fatal crash
The teenager was driving at more than twice the speed limit before the tragic accident, an inquest has heard 'UTTER TRAGEDY' Teen star of Freddie Flintoff's BBC show Field of Dreams Umar Mahmood 'lost control of his car' before fatal crash Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TEENAGER Umar Mahmood, who appeared on Freddie Flintoff's BBC show Field of Dreams, lost control of his car before fatally crashing, an inquest has heard. The 18-year-old was driving an Audi A3 Sport when it left the road and collided with trees on Chain Caul Way in Preston, Lancashire, shortly before 11pm on September 10, 2024. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Umar Mahmood (left) featured on Freddie Flintoff's show Field of Dreams in 2022 Credit: BBC 4 The 18-year-old (right) tragically lost his life after being involved in a high-speed crash which also lead to the death of a passenger, 16, in the same car Credit: BBC 4 Flintoff's show aimed to inspire teenagers - who had never considered playing cricket - to get involved with the sport Credit: PA In addition to Umar losing his life, Adam Bodi, 16, was also fatally injured in the crash while the other passenger - aged 17 at the time - was seriously hurt. Umar had featured on the former England cricketer's show about youth cricket, where the star sought to build a team of 11 teenagers from under-privileged parts of Lancashire. An inquest into the deaths at Preston Coroner's Court was told that the car Umar was driving in had reached speeds of approximately 80mph while in a 30mph zone before it left the road. The inquest heard that the vehicle hit the kerb four times before colliding with two trees and overturning on its side, leading to the tragic deaths of both teenagers. Adam, who had been travelling in the backseat of the car and had not been wearing a seat belt, died in hospital on September 11 while Umar passed away the following day. The 16-year-old's death came just weeks after getting his GCSE results. Coroner Kate Bissett said the teenagers' deaths had been caused by "a terrible misjudgement" and were an "utter tragedy". Umar's former school, Penwortham Priory Academy, described him as "bright, studious and well-loved". The school said at the time of the tragedy: "We are again saddened as a school to hear the news that Umar Mahmood, who was in the same accident as Adam, and who left Priory 2 years ago, has also passed away. "Umar was a bright, studious and well-loved member of our school community. Freddie Flintoff coaching Umar Mahmood in the first series of the BBC documentary Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams "He had a passion for Geography as well as his cricket, playing for Priory's school team and appearing in the BBC One documentary 'Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams'." It added that it was a "privilege" for those at the school to have known Umar - a "young man who was always considerate to those around him and who showed ambition and kindness in all that he did." Umar's dad also paid an emotional tribute to his son, telling MailOnline: "I am heartbroken. He was just a young lad. To lose my young son is terrible. "I am very sad. His mother is doing OK but we are very sad." Flintoff's show Field of Dreams saw the then 46-year-old return to his hometown of Preston on a mission to prove that anyone can play sport, regardless of their background. Umar was one of a handful of teenagers given the opportunity to feature on the show, which aimed to inspire a new generation of kids to play cricket. The show's second series came to an end last year, amid rumours this month of a third set of episodes on the way. TRAGIC LOSS OF 'FANTASTIC YOUNG MAN' Following the tragic deaths of the teens, tributes were also paid to Adam by the pair's school. It described the 16-year-old as a "fantastic young man" who had a "fantastic sense of humour." They said: "Adam was an amazing pupil, of whom we have nothing but fantastic memories. "He was popular, bright, confident and had a fantastic sense of humour alongside being a first-class footballer, who had been part of our football team here at Priory for five years. "We know that the rest of his year group will be equally upset at losing one of their own. "Adam was a fantastic young man, and he, his family and friends are very much in our thoughts and prayers."
