Latest news with #YouthandSports
The Star
3 hours ago
- Sport
- The Star
First-time marathoner scores big in Putrajaya
Tan handing prizes to marathon winner Sivaneshwaran, with Lim (left) and Muhamad Naqib looking on from atop the podium. First-time marathoner Sivaneshwaran Gunasegaran emerged as the surprise winner of the men's 42km race at Score Marathon by AIA Vitality 2025 in Putrajaya. The national track and field athlete clocked 2 hours, 48 minutes and 8 seconds (2:48:08), surging ahead in the final stretch of the hilly course. 'I didn't think I could even finish the race, but I ended up winning it – and in a good time too,' said Sivaneshwaran, whose previous experience was in 10km and 21km races. He said his hard work, encompassing three to four months of training, paid off. According to a media release by the event organiser, Sivaneshwaran's initial aim was to finish under three hours to qualify for a marathon in Vietnam. Instead, he topped a field of over 33,000 runners from 48 countries – the largest turnout in the event's history. Lim Kok Leong (2:51:00) and Muhamad Naqib Haikal Abdul Rahman (2:51:28) finished second and third respectively. In the women's 42km race, Lee Siok Chin took the top spot with 3:17:17, followed by Vietnam's Vu Khanh Linh (3:21:54) and Diana Qistina Redza (3:35:53). Former Youth and Sports minister Khairy Jamaluddin was among thousands who took part in the half-marathon, completing the 21km distance in 2:44:17. 'Putrajaya is often thought of as flat, but it actually has a lot of hills,' said Khairy, who regularly competes in endurance and duathlon events. 'It was a tough, rolling route.' Held under the theme 'Conquer Your Next Challenge,' the event welcomed runners across all levels, including in the 5km and 10km fun runs. Score Sports Management chief executive officer Patricia Tan said the event celebrated both elite performance and personal achievement. 'From elite athletes to weekend warriors and first-time runners, each person had a personal mountain to climb,' she said. This year's edition was the event's first as a World Athletics Label Road Race, making it a qualifying event for the Abbott World Marathon Majors. In 2024, the event recycled over 1,150kg of plastic, and sustainability initiatives this year included bio-based finisher tees and recycled-material medals. The race village also featured fitness activities, food trucks, and sponsor booths. Pre-event training support included running clinic tours around the Klang Valley.
The Star
4 hours ago
- Politics
- The Star
Unified approach to beat child sex crimes
KUALA LUMPUR: An inter-agency and cross-ministerial effort will be taken to combat the issue of child sex abuse cases, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic). The Deputy Prime Minister said the issue of sexual crimes against children – which surged from 2,541 cases in 2020 to 3,892 cases in 2024, which is an increase of 53.2% – needs serious attention. The number of victims also increased from 2,561 people to 3,988 people, which is an increase of 55.7% in the same period, he said in a statement after chairing the National Social Council (NSC) meeting yesterday. Ahmad Zahid said a seminar on child protection and overcoming child sexual and cybercrimes will also be held in November. He said the coordinated efforts against such crimes will involve agencies such as the police, and Home, Youth and Sports, and Women, Family and Community Development ministries. 'This is to address the issue in a comprehensive, stringent and effective manner. The development of technology and the industrial revolution have led to an increasingly sophisticated criminal modus operandi, including the use of deepfake technology and digital identity theft,' he said. On July 7, The Star quoted Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department's (CID) sexual, women and child investigation division (D11) as saying that there has been a huge spike in child sex abuse cases with 11,479 cases reported between 2022 and April this year. The NSC also studied the implementation of the National Social Policy 2030 and the Action Plan 2026-2030 which is currently in the final phases and will be tabled to the Cabinet in October. The council also looked into the issue of mental health among the homeless who could not receive proper treatment and intervention due to the lack of special homes. 'The council supports the Health Ministry's initiative to set up a task force to build special psychiatric nursing homes,' he said. The meeting reviewed and proposed the formation of a Special Committee for Islamic Pre-School Education to coordinate issues related to registration, safety, health as well as curriculum and teacher strategy. 'This is a strategic step towards a more structured and effective early childhood education system,' he added. On the issue of job mismatch that has affected some two million graduates, Ahmad Zahid said the MyMAHIR initiative under the Human Resources Ministry and TalentCorp has been launched to address this. 'So far, a total of 66 industry-based training programmes have been approved under the MyMAHIR Future Skills Talent Council, covering high-impact sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and the green economy. 'These programmes not only provide high-skilled training but also come with job guarantees, offering starting salaries averaging between RM3,000 and RM6,000 per month,' he said. Ahmad Zahid said the NSC will serve as the main coordinating body for national social policy. 'The implementation of DSN 2030 must be driven in a targeted and high-impact manner, with regular monitoring, measurable impact, and strong accountability by all agencies,' he said. The council will also be expanded to involve more ministries, including Energy Transition and Water Transformation; Agriculture and Food Security; Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability; Tourism, Arts and Culture; as well as the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories).
L'Orient-Le Jour
5 days ago
- Politics
- L'Orient-Le Jour
'He was Lebanese to the core,' politicians, media figures remember Bou Habib's legacy
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah Bou Habib passed away Wednesday night at the age of 84 following a heart attack. He was transferred to a hospital, where he later died. His passing marked the end of a decades-long career in diplomacy, economics, and public service — a loss that was widely mourned across Lebanon's political and media landscape. Former Prime Minister Najib Mikati, under whom Bou Habib last served, expressed deep sorrow, describing the news as a 'painful irony,' as he had been expecting to meet Bou Habib that very morning. Mikati said their cooperation during a particularly challenging period was fruitful, praising Bou Habib's 'diplomatic firmness that blended wisdom, realism, and patriotism.' He added that the late minister was 'Lebanese to the core, steadfast in his national convictions.' Former Minister of Youth and Sports George Kallas recalled Bou Habib's calm demeanor and firm leadership during what he called 'one of the most delicate periods' for Lebanon's foreign affairs. 'I was honored to work with him,' Kallas said, adding that Bou Habib had a real talent for 'resolving crises.' 'A steadfast fighter for his homeland' MP Fouad Makhzoumi called Bou Habib 'a man who left a lasting imprint on Lebanon's diplomatic and political life,' describing him as a model of national dedication during the most difficult times. MP Fadi Alameh, chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and Emigrants, echoed those sentiments, referring to Bou Habib as 'a role model in political work based on integrity and honesty.' MP Gebran Bassil, head of the Free Patriotic Movement, said he had known Bou Habib closely and described him as 'deeply committed to the Lebanese, Levantine, and Arab identity,' someone who had left a 'distinctive mark in diplomatic life.' Former Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh al-Shami said: "I was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of my dear friend, former Minister Abdullah Bou Habib. I had met him many years ago in Washington, and later we worked together at the ministry." "I last met him in Washington about two months ago, along with some mutual friends. He spoke to us about his rich experiences and recounted some of his diplomatic encounters with precision, deep analysis, a sharp mind, and remarkable calm," he added. Joseph al-Qassefi, head of the Lebanese Press Editors Syndicate, remembered Bou Habib as a man "who was Lebanese to his core, and a steadfast fighter for his homeland,' someone who walked 'a straight path through winding roads.' He praised Bou Habib's contributions both at the World Bank and in public service, noting that he 'prioritized his national calling over personal interest.' Al-Qassefi also cited Bou Habib's memoir, "Papers from Washington," describing it as a reflection of the 'hardship and longing' that marked his years as Lebanon's ambassador to the U.S. The Maronite League also paid tribute to the late minister in a statement released by the state-run National News Agency. 'With his passing, a voice of reason has been silenced. He always worked for unity rather than division, aspiring for the Lebanese to be pioneers, wherever they may be,' the league said, stating that Bou Habib had notably served as vice president of its executive council. A Lifelong Public Servant Bou Habib began his career at the World Bank in 1976 as an economic expert, later becoming a senior loan officer for the Middle East and North Africa region. From 1983 to 1990, he served as Lebanon's ambassador to the United States, before returning to the World Bank in 1992, where he held senior advisory roles. In 2001, he returned to Beirut to serve as chief adviser to then-Deputy Prime Minister Issam Fares until 2005. He was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in September 2021 in the Mikati government, serving until February 2025. His final months in office were marked by rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah and an Israeli military campaign in southern Lebanon. Bou Habib held a degree from the American University of Beirut and a PhD in economics from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee.
Economic Key
6 days ago
- Sport
- Economic Key
Cairo 3A Group Sponsors the Launch of the World Junior Squash Championship in Egypt
3A Group celebrated the launch of the World Junior Squash Championship during a press conference attended by Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports, along with a number of prominent figures from the sports sector. Returning to Egypt after a 23-year hiatus, the championship is held from July 20th to August 1st at Black Ball Sporting Club in New Cairo, with the participation of top international male and female players under the age of 19. The championship is officially sponsored by Cairo 3A Group, a leading name in the food industry and proud supporter of the Egyptian national squash team. Backed by strong government support and world-class organization, the event underscores Egypt's position as a global hub for squash. Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports in Egypt, expressed his pride in hosting such a prestigious international tournament. He highlighted the state's efforts to ensure the successful organization of an event of this scale, one that truly reflects Egypt's stature in the world of sports. 'We highly value the support of the World Squash Federation and are proud of the continued confidence in Egypt's ability to host global championships. Thanks to our advanced infrastructure and accumulated expertise, Egypt is more than ready. Squash enjoys significant backing from the country's leadership, and we remain committed to nurturing future champions,' said Minister Sobhy. Mr. Hazem Zayed, CEO of Cairo 3A Group, stated: 'We are honored to support Egypt's national squash team and to sponsor the World Junior Championship. At Cairo 3A, we strongly believe in the role of sports in community development—especially squash, which has become a global symbol of Egyptian excellence. This sponsorship aligns with our strategy to empower young talent and reinforce Egypt's international leadership in sports.' Zena Wooldridge, President of the World Squash Federation, highlighted the country's exceptional capacity to host global sports events, saying: 'Egypt is a powerhouse in the world of squash—not only in terms of talent but also in sports event management. This year's championship follows a series of outstanding performances by Egypt's juniors on the global stage, and we anticipate a truly exceptional tournament.' The World Junior Squash Championship features both individual and team competitions for men and women, with participation from over 30 countries. All matches will take place at Black Ball Sporting Club, one of Egypt's premier squash facilities—highlighting the country's growing investment in sports infrastructure. Through this partnership, Cairo 3A Group reaffirms its long-standing commitment to supporting Egyptian sports and empowering young champions, as part of its vision to foster sustainable community investment and nurture future generations capable of competing on a global scale. تم نسخ الرابط
Mid East Info
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Youth Knowledge Forum kicks off in Egypt with participation of key experts and industry leaders - Middle East Business News and Information
Under the patronage of Egypt's Prime Minister, Dr. Mostafa Madbouly Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports attended the opening of the Forum's fourth edition, held at Cairo University Theatre The fourth edition of the Youth Knowledge Forum (YKF)، titled 'Knowledge Economy and Human Development,' commenced at the Cairo University Theatre, garnering wide participation both regionally and internationally. It is being organized by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Egypt's Ministry of Youth and Sports (MOYS) through the Youth Knowledge Office, under the patronage of Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt. The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Egypt's Minister of Youth and Sports, along with several other ministers and senior officials, including Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Minister of Culture; and Counselor Mahmoud Fawzy, Minister of Parliamentary and Legal Affairs. The inaugural session was also graced by the presence of H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF; Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University; and Eng. Hany Torky, Project Manager of the Knowledge Project at UNDP, as well as a distinguished group of partners and experts. Furthermore, attendees enjoyed a vibrant lineup of musical and artistic performances by the 'Percussion' troupe. Dr. Ashraf Sobhy emphasized that as the host of the Forum's fourth edition, Egypt has demonstrated its strong commitment to investing in human capital and capacity building. Moreover, he stated that the knowledge economy is the backbone of the nation's ongoing development efforts. He further stated: 'The forum serves as a dynamic platform for impactful dialogue and youth policymaking, redefining benchmarks of how government institutions should engage with youth in an era of digital and knowledge transformation. Through such initiatives, we strive to enhance the creativity, awareness, and leadership qualities of Arab youth, since empowering them today is fundamental to building a cohesive society and a sustainable, competitive economy.' H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, expressed his delight at the Forum's return to Cairo, following the success of last year's edition. He further underscored that Arab youth empowerment remains a cornerstone of the Foundation's strategic vision. Meanwhile, Eng. Hany Torky, Project Manager of UNDP's Knowledge Project, emphasized that the world's greatest challenge today is not a lack of professional opportunities, but a growing skill gap, which is hindering individuals' ability to keep pace with digital transformation and artificial intelligence. Following the opening, the first session titled 'Knowledge Economy and Human Development' was moderated by Mr. Mostafa Magdy, Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports for Strategic Affairs and Information, and a member of the Technical Secretariat of the Ministerial Group for Human Development. The session explored the importance of formulating a comprehensive vision for the knowledge economy and examined the role of Egypt's development policies in supporting the same. The event also featured a second session titled 'Formulating Development Policies in the Era of the Knowledge Economy,' which was moderated by Mr. Fathi Emad, Director of the Egyptian Knowledge Youth Office. The session facilitated discussions on enhancing public policies, in line with global shifts in knowledge and innovation. The session witnessed the participation of Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports; Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Minister of Culture; H.E. Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF; and Dr. Mohamed Sami Abdel Sadek, President of Cairo University. Together, they outlined Egypt's future vision for strengthening the knowledge economy, emphasizing the need to invest in human capital while fostering robust collaboration between the government and other institutions to drive knowledge-based development. On the first day, the Forum facilitated six specialized panel discussions addressing a variety of key topics, including strategies for advancing the knowledge economy in Egypt, the role of international institutions in fostering a knowledge-friendly environment, the transformation of education to meet the needs of the modern era, artificial intelligence as a key driver of development, and the impact of misinformation on the economy and society. The sessions attracted wide participation from a group of leading executives and experts from prestigious organizations such as Microsoft, Uber, and Blocks 17, in addition to prominent academic and thought leaders.
