Sunday 27 April 2014

Gerrard slip costs Liverpool as Chelsea blow title race wide open


Premier League, Anfield, Liverpool 0 Chelsea 2 (Ba 45, Willian 90)



Demba Ba and Willian struck at the end of each half as Chelsea blew the Premier League title race wide open with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over leaders Liverpool at Anfield.

The Senegal international took advantage of a costly slip by Reds skipper Steven Gerrard to surge clear and coolly beat Simon Mignolet on the stroke of half time.

And the Blues wrapped up the points when one-time Kop hero, Fernando Torres unselfishly laid on a tap-in for Willian in injury-time after the visitors broke clear.

Chelsea made seven changes from the side that drew at Atletico Madrid in the Champions League and looked to disrupt Brendan Rodgers' outfit throughout a game of attack versus defence.

Liverpool went close through Mamadou Sakho but that would be as near as they came as another big-game Jose Mourinho masterclass saw the hosts continually frustrated.

Andre Schurrle almost doubled the lead after the break with a rasping drive that Simon Mignolet did well to parry while at the other end the Reds saw long-range shots from Gerrard and Joe Allen fly wide.

Luis Suarez almost snatched an equaliser when he stung the fingertips of Mark Schwarzer before Willian sealed the triumph.

The result sees Chelsea close the gap on the leaders to two points, while Manchester City can leapfrog Liverpool into top spot on goal difference if they win their two games in hand.




Source: Eurosport 

Poachers slay six elephants in Kenya


Nairobi: Poachers have slain six elephants including four calves in a private reserve in Kenya, wildlife officials said Saturday, as the country battles an upsurge in the illegal slaughter of elephants and rhinos.

"Six elephants have been confirmed poached and two, female adults, tusks chopped off. Four others were all tuskless juvenile," the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) said in a statement.

"All carcasses had gunshot wounds," said the state-run agency in charge of guarding Kenya's world-famous national parks, adding that rangers were hunting for those responsible.

The animals were poached in a southwestern reserve on the edge of the Tsavo national park, the country's main elephant sanctuary and home to some 11,000 of the pachyderms.

Since the start of the year, 65 elephants have been lost to poaching in Kenya according to figures from the KWS, which recorded 302 slayings for the whole of 2013.

The wildlife service estimates Kenya's elephant population at 38,000 nationwide, and the number of rhinos at just over 1,000.

The KWS has been battling accusations that poaching ringleaders have been allowed to act with impunity, with five of its officials suspended this month as part of a probe into alleged mismanagement.

The purge came weeks after a charge by wildlife activists that the service was losing the fight against the booming elephant ivory and rhino horn trade, dubbed a "national disaster". - AFP 

Japan's first lady Akie Abe joins gay parade

Akie Abe at the gay parade in Tokyo -AFPpic


TOKYO: Japan's first lady Akie Abe joined the annual gay parade in Tokyo Sunday to show her support for sexual minorities.

The 51-year-old wife of conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abe donned a white suit to stand on a float with a drag queen, as some 3,000 participants marched through the trendy Shibuya business and shopping district.

Akie Abe, known for her liberal inclinations, wrote on her Facebook page later that she has been involved in the issue since joining a commission set up by UNAIDS and the Lancet medical journal last year.

"I want to help build a society where anyone can conduct happy, enriched lives without facing discrimination," she wrote.

"I had the pleasure of spending fun time filled with smiles. Thank you," she wrote.

Her husband spent the day in northern Japan meeting residents of communities badly damaged by a deadly tsunami in March 2011.

Unlike traditional Japanese first ladies, Akie Abe has projected a cheerful confidence, freely speaking her mind and making remarks that often resonated well with the modern public.

She has voiced her opposition to nuclear power and scepticism about a trans-Pacific trade deal, and has passionately embraced Korean pop culture.

She has served as a counterbalance to her husband, known for his hawkish politics and support for nuclear power. Relations with South Korea and China have been frosty during his time in office. - AFP 

Obama to address youth leaders at University Malaya

KUALA LUMPUR: US President Barack Obama, in his visit to Malaysia, will be addressing a group of young ASEAN leaders Sunday afternoon.

The town hall event will be attended by 100 participants of the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) will be held at the University Malaya at 4pm today.

In his speech, Obama is expected to motivate the youth in order to overcome generational challenges and to continue to develop a better future.


The stage is set for President Obama
YSEALI was launched by Obama in 2013 and it is participated by young potential leaders from 10 ASEAN nations who carry the hopes of bringing positive change to their countries and the region.

It is a platform for the youth to contribute ideas and implement change in various fields such as economy, development, education and environment.

This American initiative is organised with the belief that the younger generation is the generation of change for Southeast Asia.

Approximately 65 per cent of the population in this region is under the age of 35.

- Astro Awani 

Mourinho shuffles pack for Liverpool showdown



LIVERPOOL: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho made seven changes to his starting line-up for Sunday's pivotal Premier League showdown with leaders Liverpool at Anfield.

Mourinho had threatened to field a weakened team after the first leg of his side's Champions League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday, but several of the changes were enforced.

Petr Cech, John Terry, Eden Hazard and Samuel Eto'o are all currently injured, while midfielder Ramires is unavailable due to suspension.

Mark Schwarzer replaced Cech in goal, but the only unfamiliar face in the starting XI was 20-year-old Czech defender Tomas Kalas, who was handed a full debut alongside Branislav Ivanovic at centre-back.

Demba Ba started up front, with Cesar Azpilicueta, Ashley Cole, John Mikel Obi and Frank Lampard the only players to keep their places from the team that drew 0-0 away to Atletico.

Liverpool were able to name Daniel Sturridge on the bench, after he missed last weekend's 3-2 victory at Norwich City due to a hamstring injury.

Brendan Rodgers's side were otherwise unchanged, with midfielder Jordan Henderson once again unavailable through suspension.

Liverpool can eliminate Chelsea from the title race if they beat them, but victory for the visitors would take them to within two points of the summit. - AFP 

Obama travels with technologically-advanced 'The Beast' in KL


KUALA LUMPUR: United States President Barack Obama will be using his official car during his time in Malaysia, the Cadillac One or more popularly known as ‘The Beast'.

Manufactured by General Motors in 2009, the vehicle has specific features for the safety of the president, with specifications similar to a tanker.

Measuring five meters in length and weighs eight tonnes, ‘The Beast’ features a bullet-proof door which is 20cm thick. The body is made largely of titanium, steel, ceramic and aluminium.



The limousine is equipped with puncture-resistant tires as a way to protect the President from bullets, spike strips or any other device aimed at disabling the car’s tyres. Even the fuel tank is armour-plated to help repel bullets.

‘The Beast’ is also equipped with night-vision cameras, pump-action shotguns and tear-gas canons.




It also has its own oxygen supply and blood supply of the same type with the president in the event of an emergency.

The vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 7 people, including the president.

Obama’s official car is the most technologically advanced protection vehicle in the world.

- Astro Awani 

Lelaki lemas dalam parit selepas kereta terbabas


ALOR SETAR: Hajat dua rakan karib untuk menyambut hari kelahiran kenalan mereka di Alor Setar hari ini bertukar tragedi apabila kereta dinaiki mereka terbabas lalu terjunam ke dalam parit.

Dalam kejadian itu, seorang lelaki maut manakala seorang lagi rakannya cedera selepas kereta dinaiki mereka terlibat dalam satu nahas di lebuhraya utara-selatan (PLUS) siang tadi.

Kejadian berlaku di kilometer 33.1 arah utara berhampiran susur keluar ke Bandar Darul Aman, Jitra, Kedah.

Dalam kejadian kira-kira jam 8.50 itu, mangsa, R. Gananaathan, 27, mati di tempat kejadian dipercayai lemas akibat tersepit di tempat duduk pemandu dalam parit sedalam satu meter.

Sementara itu rakannya, S Thinissvaran, 27 pula cedera di mulut dan dibawa ke hospital untuk rawatan lanjut.

Sementara itu Ketua Polis Daerah Kubang Pasu, Supt Ibrahim Mohamed Yusof ketika mengesahkan perkara itu berkata rakan mangsa S.Thinissvaran, 27, hanya mengalami cedera ringan dan dirawat di Hospital Jitra sebagai pesakit luar.

Beliau berkata kenderaan yang dipandu Gananaathan dipercayai melanggar pembahagi jalan di sebelah kanan sebelum hilang kawalan lalu terjunam dalam tali air sedalam satu meter.

"Siasatan awal mendapati mangsa maut dipercayai lemas selepas terperangkap dalam kereta," katanya ketika dihubungi di sini.

Ibrahim berkata kedua-dua mangsa dikatakan dalam perjalanan ke rumah rakan mereka di Alor Setar untuk menghadiri parti hari jadi, namun dikatakan terlepas susur keluar ke Alor Setar dan terlajak ke Jitra.

Katanya Gananaathan yang memandu kereta jenis Proton Wira dikatakan mahu berpatah balik ke Alor Setar sebelum terbabas dan merempuh pembahagi jalan.

Mayat Gananaathan dihantar ke Hospital Jitra untuk bedah siasat sebelum dituntut anggota keluarga.

Astro Awani

Obama answers why he is not meeting Anwar Ibrahim


KUALA LUMPUR: The fact that United States (US) President Barack Obama will not meet with Opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim is not indicative of his lack of concern over civil liberties in Malaysia.

The President pointed out that there were many other people he did not meet with and the subject of civil rights is prominent in his meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“What I have shared is the core belief that societies that respect the rule of law, freedom of speech, right of opposition to oppose even when it’s inconvenient, the freedom of assembly, respect for people of different races and political philosophies, is a good gauge on how the society is going to be successful in the 21st century,” said Obama during a joint press conference held with Najib in Putrajaya on Sunday.

Obama acknowledged that Malaysia still has some work to do, much like the US, and that he will “continue to encourage him (Najib) as a friend and partner to make sure we are making progress on that front.”

Commenting on Anwar Ibrahim’s case, Najib stressed that it is not that the government is against him, but it was an action taken in the interest of justice.

“The matter is before the courts and it is not right for me to comment anything more on that," said Najib.

He noted that more work needs to be done in terms of civil liberties in the country and that the society has to be prepared for a change.

“Malaysia is committed to the rule of law, the independence of judiciary, and to civil liberties. There is more work to be done but it also means society needs to be prepared for change," said Najib.

He added the is committed in his aim of providing peace, stability and harmony in the country.

--Astro Awani 

Polis tahan penuntut IPTS disyaki buang bayi dalam mangkuk tandas


Ketua Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah negeri ACP K. Manoharan



KUALA TERENGGANU: Seorang penuntut perempuan sebuah pusat pengajian tinggi swasta ditahan bagi membantu siasatan berhubung kes pembuangan bayi lelaki yang baru dilahirkan di Padang Hiliran.

Ketua Jabatan Siasatan Jenayah negeri ACP K.Manoharan berkata suspek yang berusia 21 tahun itu ditahan pukul 3 petang Khamis lalu selepas selesai menerima rawatan di Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah.

"Bagaimanapun, remaja itu dibebaskan tiga jam selepas itu dengan jaminan polis selepas selesai memberi keterangan ekoran keadaannya yang masih lemah," katanya kepada Bernama hari ini.

Selasa lepas, penuntut itu disyaki bertindak membuang bayi lelaki yang cukup sifat di dalam mangkuk tandas di rumah sewanya di sini.

Kejadian itu disedari rakan serumah penuntut itu pada 2.30 pagi selepas melihat suspek terbaring di depan pintu tandas dalam keadaan lemah selain terkejut melihat tompokan darah dan seorang bayi di dalam mangkuk tandas.

Manoharan berkata hasil bedah siasat mendapati bayi berusia 38 minggu itu meninggal dunia ketika dilahirkan.

Beliau berkata pihaknya juga mengambil keterangan anggota keluarga suspek serta teman lelakinya bagi membantu siasatan mengikut Seksyen 318 Kanun Keseksaan iaitu menyembunyikan kelahiran.

--Bernama

South Korean Prime Minister resigns


SEOUL: South Korea's prime minister resigned Sunday, blaming corruption and "deep-rooted evil" for the sinking of a passenger ferry that left 300 people dead or missing, as anger grows over the bungled response to the tragedy.

Chung Hong-Won admitted he had not been up to the task of overseeing rescue operations after the Sewol capsized with 476 people -- many of them schoolchildren -- on board.

"I offer my apology for having been unable to prevent this accident from happening and unable to properly respond to it afterwards," he said.

"I believed I, as the prime minister, certainly had to take responsibility and resign."

Parents and relatives of the missing and the dead have blasted the response to the sinking, saying delays in launching the rescue had cost lives.

There has also been rage over perceived corruption and lax safety standards that may have led to the disaster, with claims that the ferry was overloaded and the passenger list was inaccurate and incomplete.

"Looking at the latest accident I came to a painful realisation that there is too much deep-rooted evil and corruption in our society," Chung said.

"I hope that such wrongdoings will be rooted out this time so that an accident like this will never happen again."

The role of prime minister is largely ceremonial in South Korea, with the lion's share of executive power vested in the presidency of Park Geun-Hye.

Park has decided to accept Chung's resignation but only after the government finishes the entire rescue and salvage operation, her spokesman said.

In Jindo, the nearest island to the wreck, relatives of the dead and missing were unimpressed at Chung's move.

"So what?" snapped Ji Hyung-Soo. "My son is there in the sea. His resignation will never ease my bitterness and sadness.

"Anybody responsible for this disaster must be punished severely, but the most urgent thing to do now is to recover the bodies as soon as possible. I'm not interested in anything else."

Prosecutors looking to mete out the justice sought by relatives such as Ji raided the offices of state sea traffic controllers in Jeju island on Sunday, the intended destination of the Sewol, and in Jindo.

They seized records of radio communication with the Sewol and surveillance video footage, Yonhap news agency said.

A transcript of conversations released earlier revealed panic and indecision among crew and sea traffic controllers in the crucial final moments, with neither able to make the call to evacuate passengers.

Grim search for bodies 

The confirmed death toll from the tragedy stood Sunday at 188, barely changed in two days. A total of 114 people are still unaccounted for, with many bodies believed trapped in the sunken vessel.

Divers were battling decompression sickness, high waves and strong winds in their grim search for corpses in the ferry.

Further complicating their efforts was the increasing depth of the wreck as it slips slowly into the silt of the seabed, making an already dangerous diving operation even more hazardous.

A coastguard spokesman said 98 frogmen were trying to get into rooms on the fourth deck of the 6,825-tonne Sewol, but he warned the operation was hard.

"As the ship has sunk further... the diving depth has also increased to more than 40 metres (130 feet), posing even more difficulties for search efforts.

"A growing number of divers are reporting decompression sickness," he said.

Pressure rises as divers go deeper, increasing the amount of air they breathe from their tanks.

This not only reduces dive time, but also heightens levels of nitrogen in their bloodstream, raising the risk of potentially harmful bubbles forming in body tissue.

Strong underwater currents, poor visibility and waterlogged debris were making conditions inside the ferry treacherous, coastguard chief Kim Seok-Kyun said on Sunday.

"Hallways and cabins are packed with carpets and blankets swollen by water as well as furniture, blocking entry by divers and making search efforts even more difficult," he said.

Yonhap, citing one rescue worker, said divers were having blindly to stick their hands into clumps of floating objects to fumble for bodies.

All crew in custody 

On the surface recriminations continued, with four more of the ship's crew arrested on Saturday.

Their arrest means all 15 surviving crew members responsible for sailing the vessel are in custody, facing charges ranging from criminal negligence to abandoning passengers.

Prosecutors have also raided a host of businesses affiliated with the ferry operator, the Chonghaejin Marine Company, as part of an overall probe into corrupt management.

The widening investigation has seen travel bans imposed on eight current and former executives of the Korea Register of Shipping -- the body responsible for issuing marine safety certificates. - AFP 

Paris cops charged with raping Canadian tourist

Four policemen were taken into custody after the 34-year-old woman filed a rape complaint.


PARIS:  Two elite French police officers were charged Sunday with raping a Canadian tourist in their Paris headquarters in a case that has sent shock-waves across France.

Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said in a statement sent to AFP that the two officers would "face the full consequences" if they were found guilty.

Four policemen were taken into custody after the 34-year-old woman filed a complaint saying she had been raped in the police headquarters overnight Tuesday.

Two of the members of the elite BRI unit that fights gang crime were charged overnight, a source close to the investigation said, after the other two were released on Saturday.

According to judicial sources, the woman met the officers during a night of heavy drinking at an Irish pub frequented by many police from the headquarters, which is widely known by its address: 36, Quai des Orfevres.

They said she agreed to follow them to their workplace, which lies just across the Seine from the pub in the popular tourist Saint-Michel district.

She registered a criminal complaint soon after the alleged assault. Initial medical exams were carried out and DNA samples were taken but the results are not yet known.

One policeman has admitted to having consensual sex with her but denied rape. A judicial investigation has been launched and the accused are also facing a probe into tampering with the scene of a crime.

A source close to the investigation said the woman's spectacles and stockings disappeared after she filed the complaint. - AFP 

Elaine - Hans kembali bercinta?

Elaine Daly
Elaine Daly


SEJAK pelakon kacak Hans Isaac memberitahu media bahawa dia bakal menamatkan zaman bujangnya pada hujung tahun ini, ramai yang membuat spekulasi bahawa aktor ini bakal mengahwini aktres jelita, Neelofa.

Bagaimanapun, apa yang menjadi perhatian ramai apabila pelakon itu telah memuat naik gambar bekas kekasihnya iaitu Elaine Daly, menerusi laman Instagram miliknya.

Perkara ini menimbulkan tanda tanya dan kekeliruan, sehingga Elaine yang ditemui pada majlis koleksi terbaharu jenama Fesyen Dressing Paula sempena Musim Bunga & Panas 2014, baru-baru ini menjelaskan status hubungan mereka.

“Hans bukan cinta hati saya!,” tegas Elaine, 37. Menurutnya, hubungan dengan Hans sudah lama berakhir dan kini status mereka kekal sebagai teman.

Malah, Elaine memberitahu apa yang mengekalkan status hubungan itu adalah kerana hubungan kekeluargaan antara mereka begitu rapat.

“Saya dengan Hans sudah berpisah sejak 12 tahun lalu dan sehingga kini hubungan kami masih rapat. Saya memang sudah ada teman lelaki. Dan semasa gambar itu diambil, saya bersama keluarga. Saya juga duduk di sebelah teman lelaki saya dan berdepan dengan Hans,” katanya.

Dalam pada itu, bekas ratu cantik dan juga pelakon ini juga terkejut apabila mengetahui Hans bakal menamatkan zaman bujangnya akhir tahun ini.

“Oh, dia nak kahwin? Saya akan telefon dia tanya tentang hal ini,” katanya.


Pilih jejaka Afrika

Tidak mahu mengulas panjang mengenai perkara berkaitan hal peribadi Hans Isaac, Elaine mengakui telah mengenali seseorang yang memahaminya dan mereka juga telah merancang untuk berkahwin.

Menegaskan hatinya sudah dimiliki oleh warganegara Afrika Selatan itu, dia berkata, sangat selesa mengenali kekasihnya itu.

“Selepas dua tahun solo akhirnya saya bertemu dengannya. Memang kami baru sahaja kenal. Sekarang, kami sedang mengenali hati budi masing-masing.

"Sejak mula saya jumpa dia, hati saya terus terdetik mengatakan dialah orang yang selama ini saya cari. Saya sangat gembira dan bahagia sekarang. Dia amat memahami, mengambil berat dan matang. Saya sangat suka caranya.

“Saya tidak pernah berjumpa lelaki yang sememangnya begitu memahami dan sanggup menunggu saya ketika saya sedang bekerja. Dia adalah satu-satunya lelaki yang melayan saya dengan cara yang paling baik dan penuh rasa hormat,” katanya.

Menurut Elaine, sikap pandai menjaga serta menghormati orang tuanya membuatkan dia semakin yakin mendampingi jejaka bergelar doktor itu.

"Orang tua juga turut merestui hubungan kami. Kalau ikutkan memang saya mahu cepat-cepat berkahwin. Maklumlah sebab saya dah berusia,” katanya.

Dalam perkembangan lain, Elaine yang memegang jawatan sebagai Pengarah Pertubuhan Ratu Cantik Kebangsaan ini sibuk menguruskan uji bakat pencarian ratu cantik (Miss Universe) 2014 mulai Mei depan, selain menunggu filem terbaharu, Permata Hati, yang bakal ditayangkan tidak lama lagi. -- Sinar Harian 

Obama akan berucap di Universiti Malaya

Presiden Amerika Syarikat, Barack Obama yang dalam rangka lawatan ke negara ini akan menyampaikan ucapan kepada sekumpulan pemimpin belia ASEAN petang ini.


Majlis yang dihadiri lebih 100 pemimpin muda peserta Inisiatif Pemimpin Muda Asia Tenggara (YSEALI) itu berlangsung di Universiti Malaya lebih kurang pukul 4 petang nanti.

Dalam ucapannya,  Obama dijangka akan menyemarakkan semangat generasi muda untuk mengatasi cabaran zaman dan seterusnya membentuk sebuah masa depan yang lebih sejahtera.

Pentas Presiden Barack Obama akan berucap di Universiti Malaysia

YSEALI yang dilancarkan oleh Obama pada 2013 disertai oleh anak-anak muda pintar dari 10 negara ASEAN yang diharapkan akan merintis perubahan lebih baik di negara masing-masing dan seterusnya untuk rantau ini. Ia adalah sebuah platform menyumbang idea dan melaksanakannya untuk perubahan dalam pelbagai bidang termasuk ekonomi, pembangunan, pendidikan dan alam sekitar.

Inisiatif dukungan Amerika Syarikat itu dianjur atas kesedaran bahawa kepada generasi mudalah masa depan Asia Tenggara akan berubah. Rantau ini dianggarkan mempunyai sekitar 65 peratus mereka yang berumur di bawah 35 tahun.

-- Astro Awani  

Bas UIA terbalik, lapan cedera parah

Bas UIA terbalik, lapan cedera parah
Keadaan bas yang terbalik dan terjunam ke tapak projek pembinaan selepas merempuh penghalang plastik yang diletakkan pemaju Lebuhraya Plus. - Foto ihsan SUHAIRI SHAHRIN.


KUALA LUMPUR - Lapan pelajar Universiti Islam Antarabangsa cedera parah, manakala 17 yang lain cedera apabila bas yang dinaiki terbabas di Km 25.1 dari arah utara Lebuhraya Baru Lembah Klang (NKVE) jam 9.30 pagi.

Dalam insiden, bas terbabit telah merempuh penghalang plastik yang diletakkan bagi kerja-kerja projek pembinaan dan pelebaran jalan oleh pihak Plus.

Menurut sumber polis, bas tersebut dalam perjalanan menuju ke Shah Alam bagi tujuan sesi lawatan selama sehari ke Taman Pertanian Bukit Cerakah.

Difahamkan, pemandu bas berkenaan tidak mengalami sebarang kecederaan serius dan kesemua mangsa dihantar ke Hospital Sungai Buloh bagi mendapatkan rawatan.

Menurut seorang petugas lebuh raya, Suhairi Shahrin, semasa insiden terjadi tapak projek tersebut dikatakan lengang tanpa kehadiran pekerja kerana semuanya sedang bercuti.

"Sejurus selepas kemalangan berlaku, pihak bomba dan para petugas Lebuhraya Plus tiba di tempat kejadian dan mula membantu mangsa yang tersepit keluar dari perut bas.

"Kesemua petugas dan anggota penyelamat termasuk sukarelawan Jabatan Pertahanan Awam (JPAM) mengambil masa hampir 15 minit untuk mengeluarkan kesemua mangsa, lokasi kejadian yang agak berlumpur akibat hujan dan tanah basah menyukarkan dan melambatkan misi menyelamat," katanya ketika ditemui wartawan Sinar Harian Online, hari ini.

Polis masih mengenal pasti punca kejadian dan kes masih dibawah siasat pihak berkuasa.

Kemalangan yang berlaku mengakibatkan lorong kiri lebuh raya terbabit ditutup manakala trafik dilaporkan perlahan di kedua-dua arah. -- Sinar Harian 

Sambal belacan antara menu tengah hari Obama

Obama-Najib
Najib Tun Razak bersalaman dengan Barack Obama ketika menerima kunjungan Presiden Amerika Syarikat itu ke Seri Perdana bagi mengadakan perbincangan dan mesyuarat delegasi dua hala di Putrajaya, hari ini. - Foto Bernama


SHAH ALAM - Presiden Amerika Syarikat, Barack Obama khabarnya menikmati hidangan Melayu istimewa hari ini. 

Antaranya ialah nasi goreng, udang galah, ikan patin dan sambal belacan.

Menu istimewa tersebut ‘didedahkan’ oleh Menteri Pertahanan, Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein yang turut serta menikmati hidangan tersebut bersama Obama.

“Makan tengah hari bersama Presiden Obama, beliau makan nasi goreng, udang galah, ikan patin dan sambal belacan,” tulis Hishammuddin di laman sosial Facebook miliknya.

Obama tiba di Malaysia semalam dalam rangka lawatan selama tiga hari ke Malaysia.

Pesawat Air Force One yang membawa Obama mendarat di pangkalan Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia (TUDM) di sini pada kira-kira 4.50 petang semalam, selepas enam jam penerbangan dari Korea Selatan, disifatkan beliau sebagai lawatan bersejarah ke Malaysia.

Lawatan tiga hari ke negara Asia Tenggara ini yang mempunyai kira-kira 30 juta penduduk adalah sebahagian daripada lawatan Obama ke empat negara di Asia, julung kali oleh presiden AS yang memegang jawatan dalam tempoh 48 tahun selepas lawatan Presiden Lyndon B. Johnson pada 1966.

Sebelum ke Malaysia, presiden ke-44 AS itu melawat Jepun dan Korea Selatan.

Selepas Malaysia, beliau akan meneruskan lawatan ke Filipina.

- Sinar Harian 

Derita si kecil berakhir

Derita si kecil berakhir
Keadaan Muhammad Syaqir ketika menerima rawatan.


KUANTAN - Setelah lima hari dirawat di Unit Rawatan Rapi (ICU), Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, kanak –kanak malang yang menderita akibat ketumbuhan, Muhammad Shaqir Aminuddin Mohd Lazim Sakila, 2 menghembuskan nafas terakhir kira-kira jam 9.15 malam, semalam.

Anak bongsu daripada empat beradik berkenaan sebelum ini dikatakan menghidap penyakit misteri apabila perutnya mulai membesar dan membusut sejak empat bulan lalu.

Ibunya, Azmah Ariffin, 33 berkata, dia redha dengan pemergian anaknya dan mengangap itu mungkin yang terbaik direncanakan ALLAH SWT untuk mereka sekeluarga.

Menceritakan detik terakhir anaknya, Azmah berkata luluh hatinya melihat keadaan Muhammad Shaqir yang lemah sedangkan beberapa jam sebelum itu keadaannya masih baik.

“Sebelum itu keadaannya baik sahaja tetapi tiba-tiba sahaja dia sesak nafas dan semakin lemah sehinggalah menghembuskan nafas terakhir.

“Kalau ikutkan, keesokan harinya saya akan bawanya pulang ke rumah memandangkan rawatan ke Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) tidak dapat diteruskan kerana kuman sudah merebak ke seluruh badan,” katanya kepada Sinar Harian ketika ditemui di rumahnya di Tanah Putih Lama, di sini, semalam.

Katanya, sepanjang tempoh menjaga anaknya yang sakit tidak sedikit dia terasa terbeban dan menganggap sebagai ujian.

“Walaupun sakit, dia tidak banyak kerenah dan boleh makan minum seperti biasa tetapi kalau di hospital saya sedikit sedih memandangkan banyak perkara yang tidak dapat dilakukannya demi menjaga kesihatan.

“Masih terbayang-bayang dia sempat bermain dengan patung Spiderman yang dibawa ke Hospital namun saya yakin syurga adalah tempatnya di sana.

“Dua abang dan kakaknya antara yang paling sedih, malah mereka hanya berkurung di dalam bilik kerana masih terkejut,” katanya.

Jenazah Muhammad Shaqir selamat disemadikan di Tanah Perkuburan Islam Bukit Ubi.

- Sinar Harian 

Hampir terpijak ular sawa

Hampir terpijak ular sawa
Ular sawa yang berjaya ditangkap anggota bomba dan penyelamat, kelmarin.


JASIN - Hasrat seorang pemuda mahu memadam kebakaran di kebun kelapa sawit miliknya di Kampung Paya Tanjung, dekat sini terbantut apabila dia hampir terpijak seekor ular sawa sepanjang kira-kira 8 meter, petang kelmarin.

Reduan Ahmad, 44, berkata, lelaki yang dikenali sebagai Ijoi memaklumkan kepadanya bahawa dia tidak menyangka benda yang bergerak-gerak di sebelah kakinya itu rupa-rupanya seekor ular sawa seberat 120 kilogram.

Menurutnya, dia bersama seorang lagi rakannya ke lokasi berkenaan dan berusaha menarik ular sawa ke tempat lebih selamat kerana bimbang reptilia itu melarikan diri, sebelum menghubungi bomba dan penyelamat.

"Reptilia itu berada di kawasan kebun getah kerana ingin menyelamatkan diri dari kebakaran di kebun kepala sawit berhampiran.

"Belum pernah kami melihat ular sebesar itu sehingga kami terpaksa menggunakan enam orang untuk menarik dan mengikat reptilia itu sementara menunggu pihak bomba datang," katanya di sini, semalam.

Sementara itu, Pegawai Operasi yang juga Pegawai Kanan Bomba II Balai Bomba Merlimau, Yahya Ahmad berkata, pihaknya menerima aduan pada jam 7.22 petang sebelum dua orang anggota bomba menaiki pacuan empat roda bergegas ke tempat kejadian.

Bagaimanapun, katanya, disebabkan saiz reptilia itu sangat besar, sebuah jentera dengan kekuatan empat anggota terpaksa dikerah ke tempat kejadian dan berjaya menjinak serta menangkap ular sawa tersebut dalam tempoh 10 minit.

“Ketika operasi dilakukan reptilia itu tidak terlalu agresif dan tiada masalah untuk pihak kami menangkapnya dan akan diserahkan kepada Jabatan Perhilitan atau Zoo Melaka dalam masa terdekat ini,” katanya.

--Sinar Harian 

Ronaldo sends warning to Bayern with brace in Osasuna win


La Liga, Santiago Bernabeu - Real Madrid 4 (Ronaldo 6' 52', Ramos 60', Carvajal 83') Osasuna 0.



Cristiano Ronaldo served a warning to Bayern Munich with a sensational double in Real Madrid’s routine 4-0 win over Osasuna.

The result keeps Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the title hunt, pulling them to within three points of pacesetters Atletico Madrid, and will boost Los Blancos ahead of their Champions League semi-final second leg in Germany next week.

Ronaldo gave Real Madrid the lead in style, cutting inside off the left wing to fire a wickedly swerving and dipping shot into the bottom corner, taking his league tally for the season to 29.


Los Blancos never looked troubled in the first half and were perhaps unfortunate not to go into the break with a more commanding lead, with Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Luka Modric all coming close to adding a second.

Ronaldo grabbed a second, once again cutting inside off the wing to smash a pinpoint strike into the top corner.

And Ramos finally found the goal he’d been desperate for all night after 60 minutes, getting on the end of Angel Di Maria’s wicked cross to power home with his head.

Dani Carvajal completed the scoring, lobbing the opposition keeper with a deft header from a measured Isco pass into the box.

- Eurosport 

Louis van Gaal set for Manchester United job


Louis van Gaal is set to succeed the sacked David Moyes as Manchester United manager after the World Cup finals in Brazil.

According to media reports emanating from the Netherlands in the De Telegraaf newspaper on Sunday, Van Gaal will be unveiled at Old Trafford after the Dutch national side's campaign in South America ends.

United have yet to confirm a deal with Van Gaal has been agreed, but did not deny that the former Ajax, Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach is on his way to the Premier League.

Van Gaal's contract with the Netherlands expires after the World Cup.

"We have not signed a new manager," United said in a statement.

"When we have something to report, we will announce it."

Ryan Giggs has been installed as caretaker manager until the end of the season, and watched United enjoy a 4-0 win over Norwich on Saturday in the Premier League.

- Eurosport 

Shelvey wonder strike helps pile pressure on Villa

Premier League, Liberty Stadium – Swansea City 4 (Bony 10, 90+4 pen, Shelvey 26, Hernandez 73) Aston Villa 1 (Agbonlahor 22)


A Jonjo Shelvey wonder strike and a Wilfred Bony brace helped Swansea City to a comfortable 4-1 victory over Aston Villa at the Liberty Stadium.

Bony had put Swansea ahead after ten minutes only for Gabriel Agbonlahor to level after a competitive opening spell.

But five minutes later, Swansea reclaimed the lead thanks to a stunning strike from Shelvey, who flicked up the ball before hammering an unstoppable 45-yard shot past Brad Guzan from almost back at the centre circle.

Pablo Hernandez made the game safe with a measured finish late on, while Bony added his second from the spot deep in injury time.

The result almost certainly secures another season of Premier League football for Swansea but piles the pressure on Villa, who are now only four points above the drop zone.

-- Eurosport 

Anak kecil terkunci dalam kereta

Anak kecil terkunci dalam kereta
Bapa kanak-kanak terbabit (tiga, kiri) membuka pintu kenderaan menggunakan kunci pendua. (Gambar kanan) Dua beradik yang terkunci dari dalam kereta sedang leka bermain sesama sendiri, semalam.


SEREMBAN - Tindakan seorang lelaki meninggalkan dua anak kecilnya berusia 1 dan 3 tahun dalam kereta ketika berurusan di bank, nyaris mengundang padah apabila kedua-duanya terperangkap dalam kenderaan itu hampir sejam.

Kejadian kira-kira 8.40 pagi di hadapan sebuah bank dekat Garden Homes, Seremban 2, di sini, berlaku selepas kenderaan pelbagai guna (MPV) jenis Perodua Alza yang enjinnya masih hidup, terkunci dari dalam menyebabkan anggota bomba dan penyelamat dipanggil bantu menyelamat.

Ketua Operasi, Pegawai Bomba Kanan II, Md Zin Salleh berkata, sebuah jentera membabitkan enam anggota dari Balai Bomba dan Penyelamat Seremban 2 dikejarkan ke tempat kejadian selepas pihaknya menerima panggilan kecemasan kira-kira 10 minit kemudian.

Setibanya di lokasi kejadian, katanya, bomba mendapati kedua-dua kanak-kanak terbabit sedang leka bermain sesama sendiri, manakala kenderaan milik mangsa sudah dikerumuni orang ramai.

“Kita cuba memanggil dan menarik perhatian kedua-duanya, lebih-lebih lagi si abang supaya membuka kunci pintu dari dalam, tetapi tidak berjaya berikutan kedua-duanya masih kecil dan belum memahami insiden menimpa mereka.

“Cubaan kita membuka kesemua pintu guna dawai besi juga tidak berhasil akibat dihalang sistem keselamatan pada MPV itu,” katanya kepada Sinar Harian, semalam.

Md Zin berkata, keadaan itu memaksa si bapa pulang ke rumah di Taman Bukit Galena, kira-kira 10 kilometer dari tempat kejadian dengan menaiki van bomba untuk mengambil kunci pendua.

“Beberapa anggota juga pergi bersamanya untuk menghulurkan bantuan jika diperlukan, memandangkan si bapa turut tertinggal kunci rumah dalam kenderaan itu.

“Tindakan memecahkan tingkap merupakan jalan terakhir sekiranya keadaan benar-benar mendesak, misalnya si bapa gagal menjumpai kunci pendua atau kedua-dua anaknya mula tidak sedarkan diri akibat lemas,” katanya.

Menurutnya, masalah itu bagaimanapun dapat diselesaikan kira-kira 45 minit kemudian apabila si bapa datang kembali bersama kunci pendua.

“Pemeriksaan ringkas kita terhadap kedua-duanya mendapati masing-masing dalam keadaan sihat.

“Justeru, kita ingin mengingatkan ibu bapa agar tidak meninggalkan anak-anak dalam kenderaan tanpa pengawasan orang dewasa, seperti berlaku hari ini (semalam) bagi elakkan perkara tidak diingini,” katanya.

-- Sinar Harian 

Fizz Fairuz, Almy Nadia selamat disatukan

Fizz Fairuz, Almy Nadia
Almy dan Fizz bergambar bersama selepas selesai diijabkabulkan pada majlis pernikahan mereka di Masjid Balik Pulau, Kampung Pondok Upeh, petang tadi. - Foto Sinar Harian Oleh SYAJARATULHUDA MOHAMAD ROSLI


KALAU jodoh tidak ke mana. Setelah menempuh pelbagai dugaan dan rintangan dalam perhubungan percintaan, akhirnya pelakon drama, Almy Nadia, 28 bersama pasangannya yang juga pelakon drama dan filem, Fizz Fairuz, 34 selamat diijabkabulkan.

Majlis akad nikah yang diadakan dalam majlis sederhana tetapi meriah itu berlangsung di Masjid Balik Pulau, Kampung Pondok Upeh, petang tadi.

Pasangan merpati dua sejoli itu selamat bergelar suami isteri setelah dinikahkan dengan sekali lafaz oleh Pendaftar Kanan Perkahwinan, Penceraian dan Rujuk Negeri Pulau Pinang, Norzli Mat kira-kira jam 5 petang.

Almy Nadia atau nama sebenarnya Almy Nadia Aminuddin Shah menerima mas kahwin RM1,001 dan wang hantaran sebanyak RM20,000.

Tepat jam 4.50 petang, Fizz atau nama sebenarnya Mohd Firuz Zainol tiba bersama Almy di masjid dengan mengenakan pakaian pengantin berwarna biru firus.

Pihak lelaki membawa sembilan hantaran manakala pihak perempuan membalas dengan 11 dulang hantaran.

Almy yang ditemui selepas selesai majlis berkenaan berkata, dia amat bersyukur dengan perkahwinan itu setelah dugaan dan cabaran dilalui sepanjang lapan tahun menjalin hubungan bersama Fizz.

“Saya amat bersyukur dengan perkahwinan ini, ia hasil berkat doa dan kesabaran kami berdua sepanjang menempuh alam percintaan selama lapan tahun. Kesabaran saya selama ini akhirnya terbalas dengan perkahwinan ini. Doa kami untuk bersatu akhirnya menjadi kenyataan.

“Saya juga berasa sangat lega, segalanya sudah selesai setelah pelbagai dugaan yang ditempuh dengan bermacam-macam kontroversi, naik dan turun akhirnya kami berdua sampai ke jinjang pelamin,” katanya.

Ketika ditanya mengenai bulan madu, Fizz yang berasal dari Raub, Pahang itu berkata, mereka merancang untuk bercuti selepas sambutan Hari Raya Aidilfitri nanti namun lokasinya belum ditetapkan.

“Rancangan memang ada tetapi tempatnya belum dapat dipastikan lagi. Insya-ALLAH kami merancang selepas Hari Raya nanti kerana pada masa ini, kami masih sibuk dengan penggambaran slot drama bersiri Samarinda, Cinta Kita.

“Berkenaan dengan cahaya mata, jika diizinkan-Nya, saya nak ramai anak. Bagaimanapun, kami berserah kepada ALLAH untuk menentukannya, kami terima seadanya,” katanya.

Sebelum ini, dunia hiburan kecoh apabila Fizz dilaporkan bertunang dengan seorang gadis dari Pahang. Namun pertunangan itu tidak bertahan lama selepas pelakon ini memutuskan ikatan tersebut selepas seminggu bergelar tunangan.

Fizz kembali kepada Almy pada penghujung tahun lalu dan kedua-duanya telah mengikat tali pertunangan pada 22 Oktober lalu.

-- Sinar Harian 

Kalis peluru dan bekalan darah antara ciri The Beast

The Beast dilihat meninggalkan Lapangan Terbang Tentera Udara Diraja Malaysia di Subang.


KUALA LUMPUR: Lebih dikenali sebagai "The Beast", Presiden Amerika Syarikat Barack Obama menaiki kenderaan rasminya sepanjang lawatan ke Malaysia iaitu Cadillac One.

Buatan General Motors keluaran 2009, kenderaan itu mempunyai spesifikasi sangat khusus untuk keselamatan presiden itu, juga mempunyai ciri-ciri seolah-olah sebuah kereta kebal.

Sepanjang lima meter dan berat lapan tan, "The Beast" dilengkapi pintu kalis peluru setebal 20 cm. Badannya cukup kukuh diperbuat daripada besi keluli, titanium dan seramik.

Tayarnya juga kalis bocor dan kerangka kalis letupan melindunginya daripada sebarang bom jalanan. Malah tangki minyak juga diperbuat daripada bahan kalis letupan.

Selain itu, The Beast turut dilengkapi senapang "shot-gun" dan kamera penglihatan malam.

Ia juga memiliki persediaan oksigen sendiri dan bekalan darah yang sama jenis dengan presiden sekiranya berlaku sebarang kecemasan.

Kenderaan itu boleh memuatkan maksimum 7 orang, termasuk presiden.

The Beast, kereta rasmi Obama disifatkan sebagai kenderaan perlindungan yang paling canggih di dunia.

The Beast dilihat menyusuri laluan menuju ke ibu kota dan parlimen pada Sabtu.

-- ASTRO Awani 

United hit four to give Giggs winning start


AFP. Premier League, Old Trafford - Manchester United 4 (Rooney 40’ pen, 48’, Mata 64’, 73’) Norwich City 0


Ryan Giggs enjoyed his first win as Manchester United manager with a 4-0 victory over Norwich City.

Giggs watched in a suit from the sidelines, having left himself out of the match day squad. He was joined in the dugout by Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and Phil Neville.

United initially played much as they had for the whole season, struggling to find momentum or break the opposition down. Most of the play came down the right wing, with Phil Jones and Antonio Valencia sending in a number of poor crosses.

Just before half time, Steven Whittaker brought down Danny Welbeck as he prepared to latch onto a loose ball Norwich failed to clear, and Wayne Rooney scored with a confident penalty.

In the second half, Rooney took three minutes to extend the lead, curling in a fine shot from 25 yards. United regained some of their old confidence, and added two more through Juan Mata.


While 4-0 looks impressive, United should not get carried away - they beat Norwich in the League Cup by the same margin under David Moyes.





Eurosport - By Alex Netherton

Harimau sedia mengganas

Harimau sedia mengganas
Aidil Zafuan pastinya sudah bersedia menghadapi serangan dari penyerang tuan rumah.


TAMPIL dengan strategi berbeza, itulah jaminan pengendali sementara Harimau Malaya, Datuk Ong Kim Swee menjelang perlawanan persahabatan Kelas A menentang Filipina, di Cebu, esok.

Hanya membawa masuk dua muka baharu, Norfarhan Mohamad dan Ronny Harun selain menggugurkan Norshahrul Idlan Talaha serta Nazrin Nawi dalam senarai 23 pemain menjalani latihan pemilihan pastinya dinantikan peminat.

Mahu tidak mahu kemenangan harus dicari bagi menaikkan ranking Harimau Malaya selepas mencatat keputusan seri tanpa jaringan di Stadium Selayang, 1 Mac lalu.


SUDAH SEDIA

Bagi Kim Swee pemilihan pemain yang bakal beraksi esok berlandaskan prestasi semasa bersama pasukan dalam Liga Malaysia (Liga-M ) dan bukannya berdasarkan reputasi sebelum ini.

Menyedari Filipina bakal memberikan saingan sengit apatah lagi beraksi di laman sendiri, Kim Swee tetap berwaspada dengan sebarang kemungkinan dan percaya anak
didiknya mampu menggalas cabaran.

“Ada pihak masih menganggap Filipina pasukan lemah, tapi mereka sudah menunjukkan peningkatan, ini bukan pasukan Filipina 10 atau 20 tahun dulu. Sudah pasti saya akan menggunakan strategi berbeza apabila beraksi di sana nanti.

"Lihat sahaja aksi di Selayang tempoh hari, mereka menampilkan aksi menarik yang memberi tekanan pada kita namun untuk aksi esok kita sudah bersedia dengan strategi berlainan bagi memastikan keputusan positif dicapai," katanya.


PRESTASI SEMASA

Mengulas ketiadaan nama pemain sayap kiri Mohd Nazrin Nawi walaupun beraksi cemerlang bersama Harimau Malaya ketikaseri 0-0 dalam aksi persahabatan dengan
Filipina di Selayang dan menang 2-1 ke atas Yaman pada aksi kelayakan Piala Asia 2015 awal bulan lalu, Kim Swee berkata beliau kurang berpuas hati dengan tahap
kecergasan pemain berusia 26 tahun itu.

“Selepas beraksi dengan Yaman, dia hanya beraksi dalam dua perlawanan jadi saya fikir saya tidak boleh memanggil pemain yang kurang cergas. Walaupun dia tidak bersama pasukan, saya masih mempunyai pemain lain yang boleh beraksi di posisi saya kiri seperti Baddrol Bakhtiar dan Alex Azamuddin Mohd Akil),” katanya.

Mampukah OKS memastikan Harimau Malaya pulang dengan kemenangan. Strategi berbeza jadi taruhan.


ENGGAN LEPAS

Namun bagi Norfarhan yang dipanggil menyertai latihan bersama skuad kebangsaan boleh dianggap peluang untuk pemain kelahiran Terengganu itu kembali menyinar di pentas antarabangsa.

Kali terakhir pemain Terengganu berusia 29 tahun itu menyarung jersi kebangsaan ketika di bawah kendalian Datuk K Rajagobal bagi perlawanan persahabatan menentang kelab Liga Perdana Inggeris Chelsea di Stadium Shah Alam Julai tahun lalu.

Farhan yang beraksi secara konsisten bersama pasukan negeri kelahirannya itu walaupun hanya meledak tiga gol dalam kempen Liga Super musim ini sedar dia perlu
memberikan aksi terbaik bagi membuktikan kehadirannya bukan sekadar pelengkap pasukan selepas Kim Swee membuat keputusan tidak memanggil penyerang
Norshahrul Idlan Talaha.

“Saya tetap menghormati Mat Yo (Norshahrul), dia antara penyerang terbaik tempatan dan bagi saya ini saingan sihat antara pemain untuk merebut tempat dalam pasukan kebangsaan serta menghargai peluang diberikan jurulatih.

"Sememangnya bukan mudah mendapat tempat dalam pasukan ini dan jika terpilih dalam senarai akhir pemain ke Filipina ia pasti memberi semangat baru,” jelasnya.

Selain Farhan, Kim Swee turut memanggil penyerang Mohd Safee Sali, Ahmad Fakri Saarani, Bobby Gonzales dan Mohd Amri Yahyah bagi aksi persahabatan antarabangsa dengan Filipina di Cebu, Ahad ini. -- Sinar Harian 

Samsung Galaxy S5 cameras are failing


Well, this is embarrassing: the Samsung Galaxy S5 has only been on the market for two weeks, and it's already developed a major fault -- at least for Verizon customers. "Warning," the devices reads. "Camera failure." The camera module appears to be failing outright, with no hope of being revived. Users have tried restarting their camera apps, rebooting devices and even performing factory resets, but nothing works. 

For now, the only working fix seems to be replacing a device, but some users are still holding out for a software fix.

Fortunately, Verizon and Samsung are both being fairly candid about the issue -- both companies have acknowledged the faulty camera and are asking customers to contact support for troubleshooting and warranty replacements. 

Most of the failed devices seem to be coming from Verizon specifically, but BGR says it's seen similar reports from Sprint customers, too. Have a faulty device? Skip past the break for Samsung's official response and customer service instructions.

Samsung is committed to providing the best experience for customers. We have learned that a limited number of Galaxy S 5 devices may have an issue that causes "Camera Failure" pop-up error message. We ask that customers affected call 1-888-987-4357 or visit their carrier for service under Samsung's standard limited warranty.

Source: Engadget