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The iconic brand Dainese has been sold for a symbolic EUR1 (1 Euro), after accruing a mountain of debt of around EUR300 million.

The sale was orchestrated by London-based funds Arcmont Asset Management and HPS Investment Partners (recently acquired by BlackRock), who took over from the Carlyle invesment fund. Carlyle, on the other hand, had acquired Dainese from Ivestcorp for EUR630 million in 2022.

The shocking news was reported by the Sport E Finanza magazine. However, Dainese themselves have not posted such news, and neither did Arcmont and HPS.

The Dainese brand had been struggling with debt after posting three consecutive years of losses, culminating in a EUR120 million deficit last year. That lacklustre performance saw its debt soar to EUR300 million over an EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of EUR20 million, which translates to a debt:EBITDA ratio of 15:1.

The new owners have stated their intention clearly: to strengthen Dainese’s financial structure and improve its flexibility after facing market challenges. However, there is yet news on the employees, suppliers, and customers of Dainese.

Only time will tell what the future holds for Dainese.

Source: Sport E Finanza

One motorcyclist dies every two hours. That was the alarming statistic revealed by authorities, who also said that it should not be treated as a normalcy any longer.

Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) Human Factors and Road User Behavioural Centre director Ir Ts Azhar Hamzah said motorcyclists continue to dominate road fatality statistics, accounting for nearly 70 per cent of all deaths. His words and recommendations came just hours before a fatal accident occured on the Seremban-Kuala Lumpur Highway which saw three motorcyclists killed.

Just imagine 12 people die every day. Every two hours, one person dies riding a motorcycle,” said Azhar during the Allianz Malaysia Media Forum held at Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral on Tuesday.

He said many of these deaths were preventable if the country took proactive steps in education, training and behaviour change.

The best safety for motorcyclists is prevention. You cannot rely only on post-incident measures. The best is prevention,” he said.

Azhar said motorcycles were originally intended for short-distance travel but have evolved into a primary means of transport across long distances in Malaysia, despite their limitations.

Azhar said Malaysia’s road culture has normalised risky behaviours such as weaving through traffic and speeding, adding that such actions remain a legal grey area under current road regulations.

In Malaysia, this has become the culture. Riders move through gaps in roads to maintain stability. Whether it’s right or wrong is unclear, as even the Road Transport Act is a bit vague,” he said.

He said changing rider behaviour and enforcing the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) were urgent priorities.

If we can’t eliminate motorcycles, then we must control them through better roads, more stable motorcycle designs, and stronger rules,” he said.

P-hailing riders spend five times longer on the road compared with regular motorcycle users. So, the risk is higher,” he said.

He added that slowing down was one of the fastest ways to reduce motorcycle fatalities.

If we reduce speed, we get an immediate reward. If you ride slower, you lower your risk right away,” he said.

Azhar urged government agencies, private companies and the public to act without delay.

If you ride a motorcycle, act now. Don’t wait,” he said.

 

Allianz Malaysia Berhad (Allianz Malaysia) has joined forces with the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and leading p-hailing platforms Foodpanda Malaysia, Lalamove Malaysia, and Grab Malaysia to highlight the importance of rider safety particularly within the country’s rapidly expanding p-hailing industry. The initiative reinforces the shared duty of all stakeholders including government agencies, corporates, p-hailing riders, and the public to protect and support the well-being of these gig workers.

At the Allianz Malaysia Media Forum 2025 held here today, industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the challenges faced by p-hailing riders and explore collaborative strategies for a safer delivery ecosystem. The  forum underscored the vital role of p-hailing riders and the importance  of comprehensive safety strategies to support them.

The p-hailing industry, which includes food and parcel delivery services, has experienced significant growth in recent years. This is driven by strong demand for convenient and efficient delivery services, which has in turn spotlighted the safety of p-hailing riders, who are often exposed to the risks of road accidents.

As a leader in protection, Allianz Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to improving rider safety through strategic partnerships. The Allianz Malaysia Media Forum 2025 featured a panel discussion with  representatives from MIROS and leading p-hailing platforms, including Lalamove Malaysia, foodpanda Malaysia and Grab Malaysia. These industry experts exchanged valuable insights on the current challenges in the p-hailing sector and discussed collective efforts to uplift rider safety.

P-hailing riders play a pivotal role in society, serving as the backbone of the country’s growing delivery economy. From food and groceries to essential goods, riders ensure seamless access to everyday needs while helping small businesses expand their reach. Many are sole breadwinners of their families, braving daily road risks to support loved ones.

Recognising the contribution of p-hailing riders, p-hailing platforms have implemented various safety initiatives to support their well-being. However, protecting their well-being remains a shared  responsibility that calls for coordinated and sustainable action.

Allianz Malaysia MIROS P-Hailing

Allianz Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang said, “At Allianz Malaysia, we believe that rider safety is a shared duty. We are committed to not only providing insurance solutions but also actively contributing to the well-being of the community around us. Our efforts extend beyond profit, and in this particular instance, we strive to give back to society by implementing and supporting rider safety initiatives that will enhance safety and security for all road users.

Ir. Ts. Azhar Hamzah, Director of the Human Factors and Road User Behavioural Centre (HUB) at MIROS concurred, adding, “Our mission at MIROS is to ensure safe roads for everyone. We believe that road safety is a shared responsibility, and  through our research, we aim to uncover the risks and challenges faced by road users and identify potential solutions to enhance rider safety and support their families’ livelihoods. Together, we can transform insights into impactful actions.

In line with its commitment to enhancing rider safety, Allianz Malaysia is set to organise two training programmes in partnership with the Road Safety Marshal Club. The first programme will focus on rider safety training and road emergency survival with p-hailing companies, complementing their existing efforts, aiming to equip riders with essential skills and knowledge to navigate roads safely. The second programme will be tailored for public and private university students, fostering a culture of safety awareness among the younger generation.

Sean further commented, “Our collaboration with the Road Safety Marshal Club is a testament to our dedication to safeguarding road users and improving road safety knowledge. By empowering riders and educating students, we hope to create a safer environment for everyone on the road.

Allianz Malaysia remains steadfast in its mission to care for the future and enhance road safety through proactive measures and strategic partnerships. The Allianz Malaysia Media Forum 2025 and the upcoming training programmes are crucial steps toward creating a safer environment for Malaysia’s p-hailing community as well as the broader community.

Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (PMX) announced today that the price of RON 95 petrol will be reduced to RM1.99 per litre from the current price of  RM2.05 per litre.

In his special speech announcing several measures to ease the burden of the Rakyat, he said that the government’s RON 95 petrol target subsidy plan is still on track. The full details of the subsidy rationalisation will be announced by end-September 2025.

PMX also stressed that the majority of the Rakyat will be not be affected as the price of RON 95 will be reduced when the targeted subsidy plan begins.

This will certainly benefit around 18 million car drivers and motorcyclists, including youth as young as 16 years old and gig workers. This targeted approach is in line with the government’s efforts to optimise national resources for the benefit of the people, and reduce subsidy waste,” he said in his speech.

Subsidy removal will instead affect the ultra rich and foreign citizens – them having to pay the market price for fuel.

He added that in 2023 and 2024, the government spent some RM20 billion a year on RON 95 subsidy alone. Although world oil prices have declined this year, the price of RON 95 petrol without subsidy is still around RM2.50 per litre.

The Prime Minister did not reveal any detail of how the scheme will be implemented. However, it is expected the mechanism involves using the Malaysian National Registration Indentity Card (MyKad) when filling up. In this case, it should be linked to the tax database to determine a person’s income level. Will there be facial matching of the person filling up with his MyKad to avoid the use of another person’s MyKad? We shall see.

On another note, and giving credit where credit is due to the PMX and government, the actual amount of petrol we receive with the upcoming RM1.99/litre compared to the current RM2.05/litre will not be a lot more, unless we pump a large quantity. Instead, the biggest difference can only be seen when RM1.99/litre is compared with RM2.50/litre. Nevertheless, it is a start. Check out the table below:

The new and enhanced 2025 Honda ADV350 adventure scooter has arrived in Malaysia.

Honda says that these tech revisions are to give the ADV350 new features and better handling.

Highlights
  • 330cc, SOHC, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with enhanced Smart Power+ (eSP+).
  • It delivers 28.8 hp (21.5 kW) at 7,500rpm and 31.8 Nm of torque at 5,250rpm.
  • Engineered with low-friction technologies, it offers smooth power delivery and economical fuel consumption of 28.6km/l.

  • The two-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) traction control system is retained.
  • The front suspension consists of 37mm upside-down forks and 125mm of travel.
  • Rear suspension duty is handled by a pair of rear shocks with remote reservoir that are now adjustable for spring preload.

  • X-shaped 6-spoke cast aluminium wheels paired with block-pattern tubeless tyres.
  • Stopping power is provided by front and rear disc brakes, assisted by 2-channel ABS.
  • 5-inch full-colour TFT meter and now integrates the Honda RoadSync app, allowing riders to manage calls, music, and navigation via Bluetooth.

  • Backlit four-way toggle switch on the handlebar.
  • New auto-cancelling indicators, which automatically deactivate after a turn by reducing distraction and increasing convenience.
  • Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) remains as part of the safety package, flashing the indicators during sudden braking to alert following vehicles.

  • Four-stage adjustable windscreen with 133mm of travel.
  • Generous 48-litre under-seat compartment, which accommodates two full-face helmets.
  • A USB-C charging port is available in the glovebox.

  • 795mm seat height.
  • Honda Smart Key system remains, allowing riders to start the ignition, unlock the seat, and walk away as the scooter locks itself without needing to insert a physical key.
  • The indicator answer-back function also continues, flashing the indicators remotely to help riders locate their scooter easily in crowded parking areas.

Mr. Kunitomo Asano, CEO and Managing Director of Boon Siew Honda said, “The ADV350 carries forward the identity of the X-ADV where the ADV series is the pioneer of the unique  ‘adventure‘ identity in the two-wheeled world. The ADV series creates a new category that blends on-road convenience with off-road capability. With the introduction of Honda RoadSync following the X-ADV, we have expanded the joy of connectivity even further. Moving forward, we  will continue to stay close to our customers’ lifestyles and provide new experiences and value that enrich their everyday lives.

The 2025 Honda ADV350 will be available at Honda Big Wing dealers from the middle of August, at a recommended retail price (RRP) of RM33,999. There are three colour options, namely Moscato Red Metallic, Matte Pearl Agile Blue, Matte Gun Powder Black Metallic.

A motorcyclist nearly suffered a cut neck due to a kite string wrapping around it when he rode past Taman Tasik Metropolitan Kepong, yesterday.

Muhammad Faris Rosaidee, 27, recalled the terrifying moment in a Tik Tok video. He said that we travelling from Batu Caves on the Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2) to meet a friend in to Bandar Sri Damansara, when suddenly felt something brushing against his body and tightened around his neck. It finally occurred to him that it was a kite string.

I didn’t see the string. I felt it first touch my body, then rise to chest level and finally around my neck.

“I couldn’t stop because there were cars on both sides. All I could do was slow down the motorcycle and wait for the string around my neck to snap on its own,”

I was wearing three layers of clothing at the time – a jacket, a shirt, and I had a backpack. All three were torn, and it scraped the skin on my shoulder slightly,” he told Harian Metro.

Fortunately, Faris was wearing a balaclava covering that reduced the severity of the injury.

The doctor said it only affected the outermost layer of skin, like a burn… there was no bleeding, and I’ve already been to a nearby clinic for treatment,” he said, adding that he has lodged a police report at the Gombak District Police Headquarters (IPD).

As the incident occurred within the Kepong area, police from the local station contacted him for further details and helped facilitate reports to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the traffic police.

This morning, I went there and then proceeded to DBKL to file an official complaint. Alhamdulillah, all police reports have been submitted,” he said.

Faris said that this was not an isolated case, claiming others have reported similar incidents involving kite strings in the area.

He also returned to the scene and confronted two individuals near the string.

I asked them whose kite it was. They said they were only there to help… I didn’t suspect them of anything,” he said.

Faris is calling for designated kite-flying zones to prevent similar incidents and has encouraged other victims to come forward.

I made the video to raise awareness. For those asking about my condition – Alhamdulillah, my health is mostly unaffected. I’m just worried if it happens to someone else next time,” he said.

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