Swiss watchmakers counting the clock until Chinese tourists return

SWITZERLAND’S major luxury watch brands are cautiously optimistic that Chinese tourists will boost sales this year, if they return to Europe in large numbers after the easing of domestic Covid restrictions.   Exports to China, a key market for watchmakers, contracted by 13.6% in 2022 due to Beijing’s zero-Covid policy and the surge in infections when […]

King and Queen help Labuan villagers to prepare traditional dish

LABUAN: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah have joined villagers at Kampung Sungai Labu to prepare a traditional dish for the breaking of the fast at Sungai Labu Mosque here. Read full story

MOH to table new bill regulating smoking products in May

THE Health Ministry (MOH) will table a new bill that seeks to regulate all smoking products, including materials containing nicotine used in electronic cigarettes and vape devices. Health Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the ministry hopes for the bill to be expedited and tabled during the parliamentary session in May. 

Lawyer of Suriname ex-dictator calls for his acquittal

THE lawyer of Suriname’s former dictator Desi Bouterse called yesterday for a court to acquit him of a 20-year sentence over the deaths of 15 political prisoners.    Bouterse first seized power in a 1980 coup and in December 1982 allegedly rounded up 15 political opponents – including lawyers, journalists and businessmen – for execution […]