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Contemplating The Revolutionary Intersection Of AI, Robotics

Asia School of Business (ASB) recently hosted the AI@Work Leadership Summit, which brought together business and government leaders, policymakers, educators, and industry experts to discuss AI and Robotics advances.

ASB Professor of Practice, Finance, and Analytics Ong Shien Jin said, “By combining the analytical power of AI with the expertise of educators, we can create a future where data-driven insights and personalized learning experiences are far more integrated, empowering both educators and learners to reach new heights.”

Another salient point being discussed was about investing in AI. Investing in AI can be very lucrative, but investors must be informed and monitor AI startups closely to maximize potential returns while managing risks effectively.

500 Global Managing Partner Khailee Ng reminded Summit participants that there are three principles investors should consider:

1/ Assessing the long-term trajectory of the AI company and how it is shaping up.

2/ Observing the level of hype surrounding AI technology.

3/ Having the AI company carve out a niche service or data offering.

“As with any transformative technology, ethical considerations are paramount. Responsible and beneficial use of AI and quantum computing should be prioritized,” said MIT Senior Associate Dean of Digital Learning Isaac Chuang.”

He added that quantum computing can enhance AI’s capabilities in areas such as pattern recognition, optimization, and simulation. AI, in turn, can assist in quantum machine learning and error correction.

The combination of these technologies can accelerate scientific discoveries, optimize supply chains, and improve decision-making processes. However, one must be on the lookout for errors; AI is not fool-proof.

According to MIT Director of the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory Daniela Rus, it is important to strike the right balance between innovation and ethical considerations, which will build trust and ensure responsible AI deployment. AI also creates new opportunities and paves the way for job transformation.

Oil Demand Growth To Be Curbed By Economic Outlook, Energy Transition From 2024

The boost to oil demand growth from the post-pandemic recovery is set to end this year, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Wednesday (June 14), with economic challenges and the transition to cleaner fuels sapping growth from 2024.

“The shift to a clean energy economy is picking up pace, with a peak in global oil demand in sight before the end of this decade as electric vehicles, energy efficiency and other technologies advance,” said IEA executive director Fatih Birol.

Global oil demand will grow by 2.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in 2023 to a record 102.3 million bpd, the IEA said in its monthly report on Wednesday.

However, the agency expects economic headwinds to reduce growth to 860,000 bpd next year and increasing use of electric vehicles to help to reduce that to 400,000 bpd in 2028 for overall demand of 105.7 million bpd.

“The slowdown has been hastened by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine amid heightened energy security concerns and by governments’ post-Covid recovery spending plans, with more than US$2 trillion (RM9.2 trillion) mobilised for clean energy investments by 2030,” the IEA said.

Demand for oil from combustible fossil fuels, excluding biofuels, petrochemical feedstocks and other non-energy uses, is set to peak at 81.6 million bpd in 2028, it added. – Reuters.

Quicker Clearance At Woodlands Train Checkpoint With Latest Immigration Kiosks: ICA

The installation of 10 new immigration kiosks at Woodlands Train Checkpoint since March has improved clearance speed and capacity, said the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) on Wednesday (Jun 14).

Immigration clearance through these kiosks, the first of its kind at Singapore’s checkpoints, is similar to that at automated lanes. Eligible individuals can scan their passports as well as also have their biometrics captured. In a press release, ICA said that implementing additional automated lanes at Woodlands Train Checkpoint is not possible due to “infrastructure and space constraints”.

The kiosks, which take up less physical space, help address this issue. They are also arranged in clusters in order to maximise space and can clear both departing and arriving train passengers.

There are currently three automated lanes at the checkpoint. These lanes are similar to those found in the passenger halls of air and sea checkpoints today.

The increased clearance capacity enabled by the 10 kiosks will prevent overcrowding at the train platforms and allow arriving trains to turn around more quickly, added ICA.

Currently, the Woodlands Train Checkpoint clears 31 departing and arriving train trips, and close to 10,000 passengers daily.
Each self-clearance transaction at the kiosk takes approximately 24 seconds, as compared to 45 seconds at the manual counter, said ICA.

Singapore residents, long-term pass holders, and short-term visitors who had previously enrolled under the Automated Clearance Initiative (ACI) are eligible to use these kiosks to perform immigration self-clearance.

“The implementation of the self-clearance kiosks has provided travellers with a speedier clearance experience, while enabling ICA to redeploy some officers to areas that require more manpower support,” said Woodlands Checkpoint deputy commander and ICA superintendent Tong Weijie.

“Many travellers have welcomed this initiative. ICA will continue to adapt and innovate to improve the clearance experience and manage congestion at the land checkpoints.”

He added that there are currently no plans to expand the kiosks to other checkpoints. Traveller load and space constraints are factors when deciding whether these new kiosks can be installed at checkpoints, SUPT Tong told CNA.

“At the airport … or the Woodlands Bus Hall where we are looking at thousands of travellers per hour, having such kiosks will actually create a choke point and then impede the flow of travellers through the checkpoint itself,” he added.

But such kiosks are suitable in a “controlled” environment such as the Woodlands Train Checkpoint, where the maximum capacity of each train is capped at 320 passengers, he said.

Several Ministries Will Study Investment Initiatives To Support MVV 2.0, Says Anwar

Several ministries will study the investment initiatives put forward by the Negeri Sembilan government to support the development of Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0 (MVV 2.0), said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said the ministries are the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Water and Natural Resources and the Ministry of Investment, International Trade and Industry (MITI).

“To support the development of MVV 2.0, I also hope that the local authorities can focus on advancing development in the MVV 2.0 area and be given priority so that development can be carried out in an orderly and inclusive manner.

“This effort will bring benefits to all parties, especially the people in this state. The planning plan needs to be steered well to drive the country’s success and excellence, we need strong leadership with high integrity,“ the prime minister said at the launch of a catalyst project for the MVV 2.0 here today.

The text of the speech was read by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof who was present on behalf of the Prime Minister to inaugurate the ceremony. Also present was Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

Anwar also congratulated the efforts of the state government and the agencies for their continued commitment to the MVV 2.0 development plan which has drawn RM15.6 billion in investments to date.

“The government is confident that the policies and strategies enacted will strengthen the investment ecosystem and boost investment activities to continue to drive the country’s economic growth and restore the country’s position as a major investment destination in the region.

“Hopefully this effort will be blessed for the progress of the country and bring Negeri Sembilan towards being a developed state by the year 2045,“ he added.

In the meantime, the Prime Minister said that in order to continue to empower workers in this country, the Technical Education and Vocational Training (TVET) Programme also needs to be strengthened to produce effective workers who can optimise productivity and subsequently improve competitiveness.

“In addition to opening up quality job opportunities, we need to ensure that local entrepreneurs get opportunities in the ‘eco-system’ of the industry and technology transfer to local companies,“ he added.

At the event, five memorandums of understanding (MoU) and four smart partnerships were also signed, including the involvement of the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia) for advisory services for the development of the Negeri Sembilan Aerospace Valley (NSAV) and the Unmanned Vehicle Valley (UVV) ecosystems.

The MoU with China National Aero-Technology International Engineering Corporation (AVIC-ENG) involves the development of real estate and infrastructure in the NSAV area with a total investment of RM5.81 billion.

MVV 2.0 is a development based on public and private collaboration to make a world-class metropolis that is competitive, inclusive and clean. The development of MVV 2.0 is expected to have an economic impact on the country by bringing in international and local investors.

The area encompasses 153,411 hectares of land, covering Seremban and Port Dickson.

Why Are Other Automakers Pursuing Tesla’s ‘Gigacasting’?

Toyota Motor said this week it will adopt a technology Tesla pioneered known as “Gigacasting” as part of a strategy by the Japanese automaker to improve the performance – and lower the cost – of future electric vehicles (EVs).

Toyota is not alone in following Tesla’s breakthrough. Here’s a look at Gigacasting and how the innovation is forcing automakers to scramble to match Tesla:

What is gigacasting?

The Giga Press is an aluminium die-casting machine adopted by Tesla at its factories in the U.S., China and Germany. The house-sized machines are able to produce aluminium parts far bigger than anything used before in auto manufacturing.

The “giga” in the name is a nod to Tesla’s convention of calling its plants “Gigafactories”. Other automakers have taken to calling them “megapresses”, which also can refer to smaller but still massive machines.

In operation, the press takes in a shot of molten aluminium of 80 kg (176 lb) or more into a mould where it is formed into a part, released and then quickly cooled. Tesla has developed an aluminium alloy that also allows it to skip the heat treating traditionally used to increase the strength of the cast part.

What’s the payoff?

Typically more than a hundred individually stamped metal parts have been welded together to make a car body. Fewer parts, lower costs and a simplified production line have contributed to Tesla’s industry-leading profitability, analysts have said.

For Tesla, the use of a single component in the rear of the Model Y – its best-selling model – allowed it to cut related costs by 40 per cent, the company has said.

In the Model 3, by using a single piece from the front and rear of the vehicle, Tesla was able to remove 600 robots from assembly, Elon Musk has said.

It can also cut a vehicle’s weight – an important consideration for EVs where the battery pack alone can weigh more than 700 kg. And it has the potential to reduce waste and greenhouse emissions from a plant. Toyota said it expected that using aluminium die-casting would eliminate dozens of sheet metal parts from assembly and reduce waste.

Who makes these machines?

Tesla sources its presses from Italy-based IDRA, which has been a unit of China’s LK Industries since 2008. Competitors of IDRA and LK include Buhler Group in Europe, Ube and Shibaura Machine in Japan, and Yizumi and Haitian in China.

The global aluminium die-casting market was worth almost $73 billion last year and is projected to top $126 billion by 2032, showed an AlixPartners analysis.

Who’s chasing it?

In addition to Toyota, General Motors, Hyundai Motor and affiliates of China’s Geely – Volvo Cars, Polestar and Zeekr – are using the technology or planning for it.

Zeekr has started using massive aluminium die casts for a multi-purpose van it makes for sale in China and has said it will introduce the technology for other models. Volvo said last year it would invest more than $900 million to upgrade its plant near Gothenburg, Sweden, to include megapress technology.

What’s the catch?

Cost is one. Tesla records most of its sales with just two models: the Model 3 and Model Y. High sales volume on just two platforms make it easier to justify the investment in new production technology. Other EV startups also have that advantage.

For legacy automakers with more complicated product lineups and factory machinery that is already amortized, the decision to invest tens of millions of dollars in new casting technology can be a harder call, analysts have said.

Cars with body sections cast into single pieces could also be harder or more expensive to repair after an accident. That could add to the cost of operation for EVs.

Already insurance companies are writing off EVs with low mileage if they have damaged batteries because there is often no way to repair even slightly damaged battery packs.

Airbus Predicts Asia To Lead Air Traffic Boom In Coming Decades

Airbus SE predicted aircraft manufacturers will deliver 40,850 new jets over the next two decades as customers particularly in Asia expand their fleets and replace older aircraft with more fuel-efficient models.

The plane manufacturer expects the global installed fleet to more than double through 2042 to 46,560 aircraft, with 23,680 planes representing growth and 17,170 going toward replacement of older jets, it said in its latest Global Market Forecast. About 80% of the new deliveries will be narrowbodies such as the A320neo and Boeing Co’s 737 Max, and the bulk of the expansion with come from China and the rest of Asia, Airbus said.

The aviation industry has seen demand surge from a virtual shutdown at the height of the pandemic. Capacity on domestic routes in May 2023 was higher than 2019 while international traffic is back to 89% of pre-pandemic levels, the planemaker said. Airbus’s forecast comes a day after jet lessor Avolon Holdings Ltd made a similar prediction, highlighting the industry’s confidence that it has returned to its growth path, according to Bloomberg.

Avolon expects Airbus to expand its lead in narrowbody jet manufacturing, the biggest segment of the commercial aircraft market, over the next two decades, while US rival Boeing will maintain its dominance in widebody sales.

Airbus said China alone will have 9,440 aircraft by 2042, of which 85% will be narrowbodies. The country is developing its own single-aisle airliner, the Comac C919, as it seeks to break into the lucrative duopoly for such jets now held by Airbus and Boeing.

The highest proportion of widebody fleets regionally will remain in the Middle East, Airbus predicted. Already today, airlines like Emirates or Qatar Airways run massive long-range fleets that connect their hubs with airports around the world.

FedEx, Floship Form Commercial Partnership To Deliver What’s Next In E-Commerce

FedEx and Floship a partnership designed to provide enhanced fulfillment and logistics services to e-tailers worldwide.

Through investment by the FedEx Innovation Lab (FIL), the partnership will create an end-to-end digitalized fulfillment and return solution, enhancing operational efficiency through optimal inventory management and best-in-class delivery using FedEx services.

This partnership will give FedEx’s e-commerce customers access to Floship’s global network of warehouses and powerful logistics platform’s capabilities to streamline their e-commerce fulfillment operations. At the same time, Floship’s customers will be able to leverage FedEx global networks as well as a full range of FedEx extensive transportation options to optimize their operations.

Additionally, FedEx’s and Floship’s cross-border e-commerce customers in Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, Europe, and North America will gain access to enhanced fulfillment, last-mile delivery, as well as hassle-free returns.

The FedEx Innovation Lab (FIL) makes early-stage investments in rising start-ups primarily in India. These collaborations will bring additional value in terms of capabilities and speed to market to start-up firms through FedEx’s global networks, resources, and customer base.

The collaborations will also help expand FedEx advanced digital capabilities globally as it continues to evolve its operations and product offerings to meet the needs of the modern supply chain. This is the second investment by FIL.

Myra Putri, A Commitment To Provide Affordable, Quality Homes

Over the past seven years, the primary driving force behind Myra has been to challenge the frequently misunderstood notion of ‘affordable homes.’ This objective has been achieved by establishing new benchmarks in the residential segment, offering a seamless and stress-free homeownership experience for first-time buyers. These initiatives are the catalyst for significant milestones in the lives of our customers.

Myra has consistently endeavoured to ease the burden for first-time homeowners, as demonstrated by the successful launches of Myra Putra and Putri in Putrajaya, Irina by Myra and Alea Residence at Bandar Puncak Alam, and the recent addition of Myra Impian at Nilai, Negeri Sembilan.

Many of these new homeowners are young couples or single adults aged between 26 to 35, who prioritise making informed decisions before committing to purchasing what will likely be their Biggest Most Prized Possession (BMPP) in life.

The intention over the years has been for Myra to create a renewed sense of excitement, counter the anxiety, and assuage the concerns of escalating home prices and rising inflation rates that impact many hard-working Malaysians. This focus is crucial because the prospect of owning their first home can be daunting for many individuals.

Myra, a property developer since 2016, takes great pride in its track record of delivering over 2,593 affordable homes worth over RM 1.388 billion to first-time homebuyers and their growing families.

Taking Myra Putri as the latest testament to its commitment, the development offers prospective buyers a quality starter home at an affordable price point.

With units starting from RM 380,000, Myra Putri provides ample living space spanning 904 sq.ft, comprising 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. This cost-effective option presents tremendous value, ensuring homebuyers can enjoy a quality living experience without breaking the bank.

Like other Myra homes, buyers will find it difficult to come across another project in the same price range that offers the same level of quality workmanship and facilities. The substantial take-up rates across our different projects clearly indicate that many individuals have become proud homeowners of Myra properties that they can genuinely call their own.

Myra has distinguished itself over the years by providing a guiding hand throughout the homeownership journey. A valuable resource is the Myra Library, an in-house archive available to anyone embarking on their homeownership journey. Coupled with a website that is easy to navigate, this customer-centric approach has yielded remarkable results.

One of the valuable resources offered by Myra is the Myra’s 4-Step Journey, serving as a proprietary guide to assist newcomers in finding their dream homes. Additionally, the Askmyra YouTube and TikTok channels provide curated bite-sized, and engaging lifestyle content on the subject, featuring youthful and energetic hosts and guests. These extensions further enhance and streamline the wealth of information available to individuals seeking their ideal living spaces.

To provide further assistance, Myra offers the Myra Super Calculator, a free consultation session designed to provide clarity to buyers regarding the necessary funds for the down payment, monthly instalments, and other additional associated fees.

Additionally, many Myra property owners find that their monthly loan instalments are comparable to the rental rates they currently pay, making Myra an appealing option for a stable and affordable home.

Please don’t set up a casino in Sarawak

As a “one-stop centre” (OSC) for gambling (or otherwise also known as “gaming”), casinos offer and provide a “dazzling” array of gambling activities under a consolidated and integrated hub. This unlike number forecast operators (NFOs)/number forecast totalisators (NFTs) and special draw jackpot (or lottery draw) companies (Magnum, Berjaya Sports Toto, Damacai/Pan Malaysian Pools) that focus on a specific gambling market, and as regulated under the Racing (Totalisator Board) Act (1961). 

There’re also outlets such as snooker clubs which can double up as a haven for illegal/”underground” betting activities. 

Nowadays, online gambling/gaming has become popularised (which saw a spike during the movement control order/MCO periods) ranging from sports betting (e.g., football/soccer, horse race) to options trading (stock market). Its legality remains a “grey area” as successive governments seem to lack the urgency to update the law – Common Gaming Houses Act (1953) and Betting Act (1953) – to accommodate and take into account contemporaneous developments. The High Court in Public Prosecutor v Multi Electrical Supply & Services & 105 Others [2022] confirmed that online gambling remained a “grey area” which required the correct legislative tools to empower the authorities to regulate the activities (“Does the House Always Win? An analysis of civil forfeiture of property for the offence of “online gambling”, Skrine, May 25, 2022). 

By way of digression, it’s hoped that the government would expedite the legislative and policy-making process – to regulate and tax online gambling (as a new source of revenue). 

In the UK, for example, the existence and presence of fixed odds betting terminals (FOBTs) combines the OSC characteristics of a casino with the specialisation/speciality of an NFO/NFT outlet. That is, the various gambling activities are all consolidated in the form of a FOBT machine as provided for in betting shops. 

And then there’re the gambling dens which more often than not are situated in residential premises. 

Back to the issue of casino. 

Casinos serve as a gateway to advanced types of gambling like blackjack, roulette, baccarat and craps which are more “suitable” as and commensurate with being part of rest and recreational activities (R&R), i.e., advanced forms of leisure. Hence, it’s not surprising that casinos are typically part of a resort or hotel and dubbed a (legitimate) tourism activity (because of a captive market “out there”).   

By extension, earnings generated from casinos can be seen to be a lucrative source of government revenue whereby the so-called “inelasticity” of the demand provides an incentive for increasing the sin tax.

Notwithstanding, it’s highly disconcerting that the Sarawak territorial/state government via Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is keen on setting up a casino as part of the redevelopment of the Borneo Highlands Resort (“Making Sarawak more appealing to foreign, local tourists:, New Straits Times, April 8, 2023) – seemingly oblivious to the impact and “side-effects” such a plan would have on the local populace in the area and beyond (even if it goes ahead within a so-called “controlled environment”). 

Undoubtedly, the Genting Highlands resorts casino story has been a success story. It’s not surprising that the Sarawak state government might want to replicate the model in East Malaysia. A casino (or casinos) could add to the revenue stream of the Sarawak state government and also generate employment for the locals as well as boosting the local economy – as tourism-crowd puller.

Genting Highlands Resorts City, which serves as the country’s integrated casino hub and operated by Resorts World Genting, has been a successful tourist and gambling attraction – pulling in locals and foreigners alike ever since its inception in 1971 by the late Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong who used to be a household name in both the corporate world and popular imagination (especially among the Malaysian Chinese community). 

The Malaysian model whereby Genting Malaysia (GENM) is the sole casino operator and hence “monopoly” of the industry has worked very well – allowing for a controlled and well-regulated environment to flourish in co-existence with the reality that gambling is haram for the majority population. Muslims in Malaysia comprise nearly 60% of the population.  

Nonetheless, the critical issue under consideration in relation to the Sarawak context (and, by extension, Sabah) is whether the economic benefits (directly and indirectly) should “override” the moral and, by extension, social (moral) impact. 

It’s argued regardless, the plan to set up a casino is a misguided policy move that’ll be detrimental to the well-being of Sarawakians, at least in the long-run. 

Constructing a casino which is simply an add-on to the broader resort (re)development concept and plan will neither introduce a multiplier nor accelerator effect on the local economy. 

Whatever multiplier effects there’d be come from the spill-over from the redevelopment of the Borneo Highlands Resort overall itself which at the same time is more than capable of generating any additional jobs (that is in lieu of the casino employment). Therefore, there’s no opportunity costs in foregoing the construction of a casino – job for job. 

In fact, the casino industry in Malaysia as embodied by GENM is facing stiff competition from abroad. 

Not only from Singapore but even Cambodia and the Philippines (“Genting may lose its status as casino king in Malaysia”, Eleven Media Group, July 19, 2019). It’s reported by JP Morgan Malaysia that “[d]ue to the impact of stiff competition in the [regional] market and government policy, Genting Group may lose its status as the casino king in the region, taken over by Philippines and Cambodia”.

The combined casino market size for Singapore and Malaysia was USD6.1 billion in 2018. On the other hand, the combined market size for Cambodia and the Philippines were at a close of USD5 billion. By 2020 and 2021, Genting’s casino business in Malaysia and Singapore was estimated to be at USD5.7 billion while the size for Cambodia and Philippines increased “to between USD6.7 billion and USD7.5 billion”.   

Cambodia has recently attracted a large segment of Malaysia tourists, partly due to its “emerging” status as a leading gambling/gaming hub. 

The robust expansion and growth of the casino industry in Cambodia is also definitively attributable to the laxer or less restrictive/controlled policy environment compared to Malaysia where, e.g., GNEM’s licensing application has to be submitted anew every three months (“Cambodia poses a growing threat to Malaysia’s gaming industry, says JPMorgan”, The Malaysian Reserve, July 17, 2019).

According to JP Morgan Malaysia, Malaysian visitors to Cambodia have increased by a third between 2017 and 2019 and they’re believed to be the second-largest contributors of gross gaming revenue (GGR) in some of the larger casinos there. JP Morgan Malaysia also reported that prominent Cambodian casino operator NagaCorp Ltd reported 29% to 45% higher volumes year-on-year in the first quarter of 2019 versus a double-digit decline in rolling volume for GNEM – and, by extension, fast forward into the present-day.

Given this, it’s simply not feasible, economically speaking, to set up another casino in the country even if across the South China Sea. A casino at Borneo Highlands Resort would simply not be able to serve as a viable alternative casino site/location, either domestically or regionally. 

And even though the majority of Sarawakians are non-Muslim, the Muslim population in Kuching itself is at least slightly more than a third. 

Given Kuching’s position and status, it’s simply not suitable to offer up the capital city of Sarawak as another casino avenue for local/domestic and regional as well as international tourists, especially gamblers. 

For example, Kuching’s night life and shopping scene aren’t comparable to Genting Highlands’s. 

The type of tourists flocking to Sarawak would generally be oriented towards culture, adventure, nature, food, and festival (CANFF) tourism (as articulated by the Sarawak Tourism Board). Cultural tourism includes heritage and community tourism – whereby visitors are exposed to the lifestyle of the various sub-ethnic groups in the territory such as the Lun Bwang, for example.

Promoting the casino industry under Sarawak’s tourism umbrella wouldn’t only be jarring but financially not cost-effective. Much financial resources would have to be expended in promoting and advertising Borneo Highlands Resort’s casino in the country and beyond – in order to generate the expected returns. 

The net present value (NPV) of the cash flows simply doesn’t justify the investment – given that the present value (PV) of the expenditure for (re)development and construction (outflows) wouldn’t be met over and above (recouped plus profit) by future earnings (inflows) due to insufficient demand and the size of the expected market. 

Even if the proposal and conceptualisation (e.g., floor plan, arrangement of the gambling assets) is for a casino that’s much more modest and smaller in size (and hence, again, isn’t meant to rival Genting Highlands) and concentrated almost exclusively on the slot machines, the morality far outweighs the economic benefits.

Firstly, what’s there to prevent the slot machines from assuming the function of a FBOT? 

This would simply transfer the physicality of the centrepiece of gambling attraction as embodied by the excitement of interpersonal interaction in the casino table games to the virtual (e.g., artificial intelligence or AI). 

Secondly, and following on from that, it’s noted that Sarawak is majority Christian and gambling (in contradistinction with playing purely for leisure) is also forbidden/off-limits for the adherents too. 

In this, Christians in Sarawak, and indeed in the rest of the country, would be thankful to Islamist party PAS for stating its avowed opposition to the proposal (“PAS Sarawak stands opposed to idea of opening casinos in state”, Borneo Post, April 20, 2023). 

PAS Sarawak commissioner Jofri Jaraiee said that “[t]he proposed opening of [a casino or casinos] should be opposed as it would do more harm than good to the people … if realised, [it] could lead to gambling addiction and the eventual collapse of the family institution and also society”.

He further added that “[s]uch consequences outweigh the economic returns premised on casinos being a major stimulus for tourism development, by way of attracting both domestic and international tourists”.

It’s hoped that the Anglican Diocese of Kuching, the Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching, Association of Churches Sarawak (ACS), Sarawak Evangelical Christian Association (SECA), Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB), etc. together with the Sarawak Islamic Council (Majlis Islam Sarawak) would finally join in explicitly/expressly stating their opposition too. 

Which then brings us to the third point, namely that the socio-economic development of the locals would also hardly be enhanced. Instead, the existence and presence of a casino might just introduce further exposure to illegal and organised criminal activities such as prostitution, loan sharking and extortion rackets. 

Lastly, it’s arguable that having another casino in Malaysia is simply not in line with the Malaysia Madani agenda where the expression of liberal attitudes and values are channelled within the constraints and framework of a broad consensus involving dynamic interactions with a conservative worldview to produce moderate pathways. 

In conclusion, Sarawak’s liberal outlook is better displayed in other ways such as ramping up on its CANFF distinctiveness and positioning the territory as the leading advocate of a multi-cultural Malaysia domestically and overseas politically and policy-wise.

Please don’t set up a casino in Sarawak. 

Jason Loh Seong Wei is Head of Social, Law & Human Rights at EMIR Research, an independent think tank focussed on strategic policy recommendations based on rigorous research

McKinsey says biggest losers of AI boom are knowledge workers

The worldwide boom in generative artificial intelligence will usher in an age of accelerated productivity and greater prosperity for some — and profound disruption for others, primarily knowledge workers, according to a new report by consultants McKinsey & Co.

Whole swaths of business activity, from sales and marketing to customer operations, are set to become more embedded in software — with potential economic benefits of as much as US$4.4 trillion (RM20.3 trillion), about 4.4% of the world economy’s output — according to the study by McKinsey’s research arm.

Generative AI will give humans a new “superpower”, and the economy a much-needed productivity injection, said Lareina Yee, a senior partner at the firm and chair of McKinsey Technology, in the report.

The research examined 63 use cases for generative AI, the type of tools that can generate content such as text or images based on a prompt, across some 850 occupations. Depending on how the technology is adopted and implemented, productivity increases could range between 0.1% and 0.6% over the next 20 years, it found.

“Business leaders need to understand which activities can be changed, and how they want to rethink that,” said Yee. “That is a leadership choice, and it’s also execution.” 

The transformation will pile pressure on the labour force, especially for higher-wage knowledge workers whose activities “were previously considered to be relatively immune from automation”, the report said.

A few years ago, McKinsey had estimated that about half of worker hours worldwide were spent on tasks that could be automated. Now it’s raising the figure to as high as 60%-70%. Employees could find that their time is reallocated — or that their jobs disappear. “Workers will need support in learning new skills,” the report said. “Some will change occupations.”

Happening fast

About 75% of the potential value from applied generative AI will come in four business functions: customer operations, marketing and sales, software engineering, and research and development.

Banks alone could generate an additional US$200-US$340 billion from increased productivity, the report found, as the new technology improves customer satisfaction, helps decision-making and mitigates fraud through better monitoring. That would equate to a jump in operating profits of somewhere between 9% and 15%.

In product R&D, the technology could deliver a boost to productivity of 10% to 15%, McKinsey said. It cited the example of life sciences and chemical industries, where AI can generate potential molecules more quickly, accelerating the process of developing new drugs and materials. That could add as much as 25% to profits for pharmaceutical companies and medical product firms.

And it’s all developing fast. The firm’s earlier research suggested that 2027 would be the first year when AI technology would be able to match the typical human’s performance in tasks that involve “natural-language understanding”. Now, McKinsey reckons it will happen this year.

Automation adoption will be faster in developed economies, where higher wages will make it feasible sooner, than poorer ones — and will impact white-collar work much more than physical tasks.

In that respect, it may be the opposite of major technology upgrades of the past, which often came at the expense of occupations where workers had fewer educational qualifications and got paid less. Many were performing physical tasks — like the British textile workers who smashed up new cost-saving weaving machines, a movement that became known as the Luddites.

By contrast, the new shift “will challenge the attainment of multiyear degree credentials”, McKinsey said.

McKinsey’s projections on workforce composition are consistent with a National Bureau of Economic Research working paper published this month by academics at Columbia Business School, the University of Maryland, University of California at Berkeley and AI for Good.

That study also predicted a significant reorganisation of labour. “AI investments are associated with a flattening of the firms’ hierarchical structure, with significant increases in the share of workers at the junior level and decreases in shares of workers in middle-management and senior roles,” it found. – Bloomberg

Bursa Stays Higher At Midday On U.S. Rate Hike Pause Optimism

Bursa Malaysia remained higher at the lunch break, in line with the regional market performance on optimism of a pause in US interest rate hikes later on Wednesday (June 14) night.

At 12.30pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) rose 3.85 points, or 0.28%, to 1,384.46 compared with 1,380.61 at Tuesday’s close.

The key index opened 1.09 points firmer at 1,381.70 on Wednesday morning.

The broader market was positive as gainers outpaced decliners 311 to 283, while 553 counters were unchanged, 1,108 untraded and 12 others suspended.

Turnover stood at 1.71 billion units worth RM832.56 million.

UD Trucks Donates Laptops To Rumah K.I.D.S, Raises Road Safety Awareness

The employees of UD Trucks Malaysia gathered for a charity event recently by visiting the children of Rumah K.I.D.S in USJ, Subang Jaya to donate 10 laptops, clothing, toys and groceries as well as to bring goodwill and cheer.

The team spent half a day with close to 30 children where they helped to set up the laptops and held educational and fun activities including awareness about road safety, word puzzle games, coloring competition and a game of musical chairs. 

The company’s Managing Director for Hub Malaysia, Steve Hedouin said during the event, “This charitable event for Rumah K.I.D.S themed ‘sharing is caring’ was organised to support the home and encourage the children towards education, increase a positive work culture through community services and share UD Trucks’ corporate purpose of creating better life for people.

“As a truck company, we also feel that it is our responsibility to include road safety awareness into the activities where, through video presentations, our staffs guided the children on the important basics of how to safely cross a road and on being mindful of vehicle blind spots. Overall, it was a gratifying event for us and we look forward to organize similar community outreach activity again in the future.” 

Established in 1991, Rumah K.I.D.S is a home for abused, neglected and orphaned children who require the care, guidance and support for a better life and future. In the past 32 years, Rumah K.I.D.S has housed, fed and nurtured over 300 children ranging from as young as one year old to teenagers and young adults.

Rumah K.I.D.S’s senior manager in-charge of fund-raising, partnerships and public relations, David Jansen Nathan shared, “Rumah K.I.D.S’s mission, apart from shielding the children from abuse and neglect they once knew, is to enable them to finish their education and to realize their full potentials. Through education, the children can lead more productive lives in the community. We are truly grateful to UD Trucks for donating the laptops and other necessities and for organising all the activities. I could see how much the children truly enjoyed their visit.” 

He added that every child who comes to live in Rumah K.I.D.S will be introduced to a new family where he or she develops friendship with other brothers and sisters in a healthy and safe environment. There is also a healthy routine of study, chores, play and rest where the children find joy and security in. 

He further shared that Rumah K.I.D.S remains committed to helping any of its children who has completed secondary school and wants to pursue tertiary education or a desired career path. He shared with pride about one of the children, Manisha, who had come to live in Rumah K.I.D.S in 2006 at the age of four and who is now a recent graduate in Diploma in Early Childhood Education. 

Although her path to graduation was not easy but they all persevered together to make it come true. Now, Manisha has her sights set on entering a degree program and in order to continue helping her with it, Rumah K.I.D.S has recently started a tertiary education fund-raising. 

Central Bank Survey Shows Cut In Singapore’s 2023 Growth Forecast With No Change To Monetary Policy

Singapore’s economy is forecast to grow 1.4% this year, a central bank survey of economists showed on Wednesday (June 14), down from a previous projection of 1.9% as spill overs from an external slowdown threaten the trade-sensitive city-state.

More robust growth in China, underpinned by economic re-opening and macroeconomic policy easing, were the top upside risks to Singapore’s growth outlook, according to a Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) survey of 24 economists.

Full-year headline and core inflation are likely to come in at 5% and 4.1%, unchanged from the previous survey.

Economists expect MAS to keep monetary policy settings unchanged at its next scheduled review in October, the survey added, and about a quarter of them anticipate a reduction in the slope of the policy band in April next year.

The central bank unexpectedly left monetary policy settings unchanged in April, reflecting the financial hub’s concerns about its growth outlook.

The surveyed economists’ median forecast was for gross domestic product (GDP) to expand by 1.5% in the second quarter of 2023, after a lower-than-expected 0.4% expansion in the first quarter. Growth is expected at 2.5% in 2024.

Headline and core inflation are expected to come in at 5.2% and 4.6% respectively for the second quarter of this year.

Economists were hopeful that price pressures should ease in 2024.

A majority of economists expect year-on-year corporate profits to fall this year, the survey showed, while half also think private residential property prices will rise and corporate bond spreads will stay stable. – Reuters

Lower Train Frequency Time For Commuters Come Aug-Sept: Loke

Pic: Sun Daily

Klang Valley commuters would be able to expect shorter travel time with increased train frequencies for several public transport rail lines by around August or September, Transport Minister Anthony Loke said.

In a parliamentary reply, Loke said Prasarana Malaysia Berhad and Rapid Rail Sdn Bhd are in the midst of implementing several initiatives to restore public confidence towards the rapid transit system.

“Following several service disruption incidents to the Light Rapid Transit, Rapid Rail as the licensed rail operator has taken immediate remedial steps to address said disruptive issues.

“With a more frequent service, this will reduce congestion especially during peak hours and lessen breakdown during operations,” he said in the reply to Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun.

Loke said Prasarana is also currently expediting the purchase of 19 sets of four-coach trains which are expected to be delivered in stages beginning August.

The four-coach train is set to replace the two-car LRT trains currently in use since 1998.

Regarding the improvement of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Kajang Line, Loke said the current wheel replacement programme which is expected to be completed in August 2023 will see train frequency return to four minutes during peak hours as compared to six minutes at present.

He also said component overhaul works on all 50 trains under the Ampang Line have started since October last year and are expected to be completed in December 2027.

As for the monorail line, Loke said the construction of two new monorail trains and restoration of one monorail train is expected to be completed in March 2025, with train frequencies set at five minutes during peak hours.

A KLIA Aerotrain to be operational next year

Meanwhile, Loke told the Dewan Rakyat that one of the two Automated Passenger Mover services or aerotrain at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 is expected to be operational next year.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry has instructed Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) to ensure that work on upgrading the system and building the new aerotrain is completed on schedule or earlier.

“This line has seen its ‘end of life’ phase as it has been in service for 25 years. The decision to replace the train should have been implemented earlier, but due to the delay in making the decision, we had to decommission the service.

“We know this matter gives a bad image to the country because it is the gateway into Malaysia and I have put pressure on MAHB so that it is implemented according to schedule and must be completed as soon as possible,” he said during a question-and-answer session on Wednesday.

Loke said this in reply to an additional question from Abdul Latiff Abdul Rahman (PN-Kuala Krai) regarding the government’s measures to overcome the aerotrain service issue at KLIA which has had an impact on tourist arrivals.

The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa Celebrated Global Running Day with a Scenic Run through Tranquil Trails

Nothing is more synonymous with The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa than ensuring guest experience unique wellness-centred and energising activities through the Westin Hotels & Resort’s Move Well pillar. With a 24-hour WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio and daily recreation activities, the resort encourages guests to stay fit while on the go. In celebration of Global Running Day on 7th June 2023, guests and associates were invited to invigorate their minds and body with a scenic run followed by a series of activities. The half-day program encapsulates the resort’s commitment to embracing the brand’s philosophy of becoming a hospitality’s global leader in wellness.

The morning kicked off with instructor-led stretching exercises, targeting specific muscle groups throughout the body to minimise post-exercise muscle soreness, followed by the highlight of the Global Running Day, a leisurely 5KM run. The run began at the resort’s main entrance to the monumental Eagle Square – an icon of Langkawi that describes the true origin of its name. Participants ran with the RunWESTIN Concierge, and the route taken embarks them on an educational journey through Langkawi’s mystiques, legends, and histories at the outdoor museum of Lagenda Park.

As Westin Hotels & Resorts is the preeminent brand in the wellness and hospitality industry for more than a decade, The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa ensures guests experience initiatives and programs that encapsulate the brand’s Six Pillars of wellbeing. The morning concluded with Eat Well inspired snacks and refreshments featuring nourishing dishes promoting faster recovery time and healthier eating habits without compromising on taste. Executive Chef Zaihari Zainol and his team of chefs pulled out all the stops with fares that are nutrient-dense and perfectly capture Malaysia’s flavours. One of the crowd’s favourites on the day was the grilled chicken wraps, high-protein chia seed muffins and strawberry smoothie.

Westin Hotels & Resorts empowers guests to transcend the rigours of travel through its Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. With the rise of awareness on the importance of keeping active throughout the globe, this initiative aims to promote a better exercise routine covering all the essential elements of an exercise routine such as stretching, cardio training and post-workout refueling. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa invites everyone to keep active wherever you are across the globe and continue to celebrate the annual Global Running Day throughout the month of June with its ongoing run program that underscore the brand’s Move Well pillar – RunWESTIN®, WestinWORKOUT® Room, WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio, and WestinWORKOUT® Gear Lending programs.

China Increases Oil Import Quotas By 20% Y-O-Y

Energy Intelligence Group

China has issued a third batch of 2023 crude oil import quotas, raising the total volume in the first half of this year to 194.1 million tonnes, up 20 per cent from the same period last year, according to six people and documents on Wednesday.

Thirty-three companies, mostly independent refiners, are receiving 62.28 million tonnes of allotments in this round, the six sources with knowledge of the matter said and documents reviewed by Reuters showed.

That compares to 52.69 million tonnes issued by Beijing in June last year and a total released quota of 161.72 million tonnes over the first half of 2022.

China’s Ministry of Commerce did not immediately respond to a faxed request for comment.

Zhejiang Petroleum & Chemical Co,a subsidiary of Rongsheng Petrochemical, was granted 20.0 million tonnes in the new round of issuance. Hengli Petrochemical and Shenghong Petrochemical received 3.0 million tonnes and 8.0 million tonnes, respectively.

The rest of quotas were allotted to smaller-sized independent refiners, known as teapots, in the eastern Chinese province Shandong.

Chinese independent refineries have been boosting imports of discounted crude oil essentially from Russia, Iran and Venezuela over the past months to improve refining margins amid lacklustre fuel and petrochemical demand in the country.

Analysts estimate that refining margins at teapot refineries are more than double the level than at their state-backed counterparts.

The flood of discounted feedstock prompted Chinese authorities to toughen scrutiny of crude oil quotas.

US Inflation Data Receives Muted Applause

Photo Credit: Daxue Consulting

The US just saw a major improvement in current inflation.

Headline CPI has halved from the peak to now 4.0%. While the monthly rise was almost flat at just 0.1%, both results were in fact better than the market had hoped for.

Yet the equity market, while seeing an initial bounce, then spent the rest of the trading day oscillating sideways. The bond market also soon began to roll over again pointing to higher yields to come. It would appear that markets have already fully priced this latest decline in inflation.

Markets may also be recognising that even at these levels, half the previous pace of price rises for the headline CPI, but still clinging near the peak that we saw for core inflation, there is absolutely no room at all for the Federal Reserve to lower rates anytime soon, and probably not this year.

The Fed will however very likely be on hold for the moment. For in the background, that banking crisis, removed from most headlines but still very much alive, remains a major concern. With inflation, headline at least, dropping away more quickly now, the Fed will see this as a window of opportunity to pause. In the hope that such declines continue.

The extreme burden of the tremendous skyrocketing price gains of the past couple of years continue to eat away at the very foundations of the US economy. Continuing to squeeze and pressure businesses and consumers to adjust behaviour. And prices are still going up at what remains an alarming rate.

While markets have appeared fixated on the prospect of lower inflation allowing the Federal Reserve to pivot and cuts rates, the truth of the matter is that rate cuts remain possible at these levels. Even if the Federal Reserve were to change its inflation target, lifting it from 2% to 3%, as a pathway for attending to the banking crisis and a crumbling economy sooner, it is very unlikely any rate cuts will be seen in 2023.

Questions must begin to be asked too about the ongoing viability of stock valuations remaining at current levels as the US and global economies continue slowing.

The central bank of China has just had to ease monetary conditions in an attempt to cushion the current slow down evolving from that ‘out of lockdown bounce’. European business and investor confidence released yesterday also points to caution moving forward.

There is no doubt the world’s three largest economic zones continue to face significant challenges.

US inflation is improving but remains at what really are crisis levels. The economic shock of this inflationary period continues to build at an alarming rate.

Investors who expected this latest drop in inflation to provide a substantial lift to equity markets are likely to be disappointed.

Market commentary and analysis from Clifford Bennett, chief economist at ACY Securities

Sim Leisure Group Appoints Darrel Metzger To Board Of Directors

Sim Leisure Group (SLG) announced the appointment of Darrel Metzger to its Board of Directors. The appointment of Metzger follows several senior appointments within Sim Leisure Group last year, including Phil Whitaker as CEO, and the assignment of industry veteran, Steve Peet into the Board of Directors.

A prominent figure in the tourism, leisure, and lifestyle sector, Metzger brings with him an impressive track record spanning over five decades. Notably, he served as the former Chairman and is the current board member of the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA).

Throughout his illustrious career, Metzger held senior leadership positions in renowned leisure destinations around the world, including Disney Resorts, USA; Tokyo Disney Resort, Japan; Ocean Park Resort, Hong Kong; Sentosa Island Resort, Singapore; and Legoland Resort, Malaysia. 

Metzger’s career began with Disney’s USA Resorts, where he played a pivotal role as the Human Resources Director during the opening of Disney’s first International Resort in Tokyo.

Subsequently, he joined Ocean Park Resort, Hong Kong, where he successfully implemented a long-term strategic plan resulting in a USD100M expansion, doubling attendance and profitability while establishing a strong regional presence.

Metzger’s exceptional leadership skills were further demonstrated during his tenure as the CEO of Sentosa Island Resort, Singapore. With the resort facing stagnant attendance and declining profits, he spearheaded a multi-billion-dollar development that transformed Sentosa into a premier destination, attracting nearly 19 million annual visitors.

Inspired by his guidance, Sentosa now boasts a Universal Studios Theme Park, 17 hotels, Singapore’s first Casino, and numerous other attractions including two golf courses, a Yacht Club, and the exclusive residential enclave of Sentosa Cove.

Sim Leisure Group’s portfolio includes award-winning ESCAPE parks in Penang and Petaling Jaya, with another under construction in Ipoh, which is among several upcoming projects both locally and internationally. In addition to its organic growth, the company has made strategic acquisitions, including the prominent edutainment facility KidZania Kuala Lumpur.

PKNS Appointed Lead Contractor For Carey Island’s Third Port

The State has appointed PKNS as the lead agency to oversee the construction of a third port on Carey Island, Klang.

While Menteri Besar Selangor (Incorporated) has been tasked with implementing additional projects there, including the development of manufacturing, housing and industrial areas.

“It has been decided that PKNS will lead and represent the state government for the project to develop a third port on Carey Island,” said Selangor MB Dato Seri Amirudin Shari.

“Hopefully, this project will provide a consistent income for PKNS to continue serving the state.”

The menteri besar had previously said the development of the new port is meant to help ease congestion at the North and West ports, besides generating the state economy.

Bond with Dad: Shop, Dine and Recharge this Father’s Day at Pavilion KL, Intermark Mall

Thank dad for his unwavering support by dedicating quality time to him throughout the month of June. Because bonding with dad shouldn’t be limited to just one day a year! 

Pavilion KL and Intermark Mall offer abundant opportunities for shopping, indulging in delicious meals, and experiencing ultimate relaxation, making it the perfect destination to create a remarkable day with the most important man in your life. Discover our handpicked selection of activities specially tailored for ‘dad and me’ moments!

Elevate your dad’s style

(from left) R34, S31 and S32 Fred Perry shirts will be the perfect addition to dad’s wardrobe

Go from dad to rad dad in The Fred Perry Shirt! With 70 years of heritage, Fred Perry has revived the original Fred Perry Shirt colourway in Fred Perry Green, a timeless design that represents their iconic brand. With a crisp ecru base taken from the original 1952 tennis shirt, the shirt offers a perfect blend of sophistication and casual flair. Your dad will be dressed to impress!

Location: Fred Perry, Level 3, Pavilion KL

A scalp-tacular appreciation for dads

Gift your dad healthy hair and scalp this Father’s Day at Miko Galere

Treat your dad to a scalp treatment at Miko Galere this Father’s Day. With pollutants and irritants damaging hair and causing scalp issues, Miko Galere offers natural solutions for sensitivity, itchiness, dandruff, hair loss, and oily roots. Give your dad the gift of healthy and nourished hair with a scalp treatment from Miko Galere.

Location: Miko Galere, Level 6, Pavilion KL

A moment to relax and recharge

Let Oriental Signature’s skilled therapists work their magic to bring dad pure relaxation

Say goodbye to stress, headaches, and tension as skilled therapists work their magic to induce relaxation and melt away the pressures of daily life. Whether he’s been dealing with work-related stress or simply needs a break from the hustle and bustle, is the perfect spot to treat your dad to a blissful head, shoulder, and body massage that will leave him feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. 

Location: Oriental Signature, Level B1 and 2M, Pavilion KL & 2nd Level, Intermark Mall

Cheers to dad!

Celebrate Father’s Day with a hearty pint and meal at Arthur’s Storehouse

Spend some quality time at Arthur’s Storehouse with your dad, a unique restaurant and bar that captures the essence of the ultimate Guinness Experience through its Guinness-infused food, Guinness cocktails, and stunning décor. Don’t miss the chance to learn the art of the perfect pour at their Guinness Academy and take home a personalised Guinness mug as a memento this Father’s Day!

Location: Arthur’s Storehouse, Level 4, Pavilion KL

For a bill-oved dad

A wallet from Objects is the perfect gift for bill-loved dad

When it comes to gifts for your Dad, a wallet stands out as the perfect choice. It’s a timeless gift that exudes elegance and care. Wallets from Objects are not only sleek but also practical and functional for every occasion. With a wallet in hand, your dad can organize his cards and banknotes with ease. The best part is that a well-crafted wallet will age gracefully, just like your dad!

Location: Objects, Level 6, Pavilion KL

Ink-credible style

Montblanc Meisterstück Gold-Coated Fountain Pen

Seeking a timeless and iconic gift for the best man you know? Look no further than Montblanc pens. The iconic Meisterstück, cherished by great thinkers and authors, boasts a bold silhouette, luxurious black resin, handcrafted gold nib, and the distinguished Montblanc emblem. This timeless masterpiece inspires self-expression and becomes a symbol of sophistication. Gift your dad a Montblanc pen and watch his creativity soar!

Location: Montblanc, Level 3, Pavilion KL

Toy-tally awesome dad!

(from left) DIMOO Forest Night Series, MEGA Space Molly Space Jam, HACIPUPU The Growth Diary Series 

Make Father’s Day extra special with a surprise from POP MART, the go-to destination for designer toy enthusiasts. From MOLLY to The Monsters, DIMOO to SKULLPANDA, discover unique treasures at POP MART. Let your dad indulge in his passion at POP MART’s vast selection of collectible figures created by talented artists – it is the perfect way to show your love for pops!

Location: POP MART, Level 5, Pavilion KL

From scruff to suave

Treat your dad to a barbershop experience fit for a king at Kingsmen’s Barbershop

At Kingsmen’s Barbershop, your dad is in for a treat! With their expertise in sleek men’s haircuts, precise beard-trimming, and indulgent hot towel shaves, they know how to pamper every gentleman. But the experience doesn’t stop there—your dad can also enjoy a heavenly head massage that will leave him feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. 

Location: Kingmen’s Barbershop, 2nd  Level, Intermark Mall

Good food speaks the language of love

(from left) O’Galito’s Seafood Platter, T-Bone Steak and Lamb Curry Pizza

Serving up a delightful blend of classic and contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, O’Galito is the ultimate destination to take your dad on a culinary adventure. From the Seafood Platter, T-Bone Steak and Lamb Curry Pizza, O’Galito is a feast fit for a father!

Location: O’Galito, Level 3, Pavilion KL

Spin your way to a stronger bond

Ride, sweat, and bond with Dad at FLYPROJECT’s ‘Party on a Bike’

Celebrate Father’s Day at FLYPROJECT with their ultimate indoor cycling workout, ‘Party on a Bike’ Get ready for a sweat-drenched workout filled with climbs, sprints, and choreographed moves. Strengthen your body and connect with your dad while riding to the beat. It’s the perfect way to show your love and have a fun, energizing experience together.

Location: FLYPROJECT, 2nd Floor, Intermark Mall