27/01/2025

MONDAY | JAN 27, 2025

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Trump – maverick president who dares D ONALD TRUMP has always been a polarising figure but his return to the White House with a flurry of over 100 executive orders feels like also sets the stage for a fragmented international tax landscape. Nations like France and India may now reinstate digital disrupt global supply chains and escalate tensions between the world’s two largest economies. In contrast to his combative approach with Canada, Mexico and China, Trump has extended an olive branch to India. in contradictions. He dismantles policies as swiftly as he builds new initiatives, often leaving allies and adversaries scrambling to adapt.

services taxes, further straining trade relations and destabilising cross border investments. Trump’s disdain for Biden’s environmental policies is even more apparent. His declaration of a “national energy emergency” prioritises fossil fuel development over clean energy, effectively reversing US commitments under the Paris climate agreement. This move is likely to strain relations with global allies focused on combatting climate change, leaving the US increasingly isolated in environmental diplomacy. Domestically, it sets the stage for clashes with environmentalists and legal challenges that could drag on for years. Trump’s economic policies have been equally disruptive. His announcement of potential 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico is a bold, if not risky, attempt to tilt North American trade in favour of the US. Such measures risk disrupting supply chains, increasing costs for businesses and consumers and triggering retaliatory actions. China, however, remains Trump’s ultimate trade adversary. He has proposed a 10% punitive tariff on Chinese imports and is considering revising the exemption which allows low-value imports to enter the US duty-free. These measures, while ostensibly aimed at addressing trade imbalances, could severely often spread through contact with contaminated food, water, soil or on surfaces that have been contaminated with infected faeces. Even seemingly harmless activities like enjoying fresh produce at a farmer’s market can carry risks. Fruits and vegetables that are improperly washed or come in contact with contaminated soil or water can harbour parasites. These microscopic threats are invisible to the naked eye but can have far-reaching effects on our health, particularly for young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Much like the hidden depths of a character in a Jane Austen novel, these threats remain largely unseen until brought to light. In Pride and Prejudice , Elizabeth Bennet remarks: “People themselves alter so much that there is something new to be observed in them forever.” The same can be said of our interactions with the natural world – there is always more to learn and uncover, often revealing things we may have overlooked. However, the good news is that enjoying the great outdoors or visiting petting zoos does not mean you must compromise your family’s health. With some simple precautions, you can minimise the risks while savouring your holiday adventures. Firstly, prioritise good hygiene. Encourage children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals, soil or water sources. When soap and water are unavailable, a hand sanitiser can be a practical alternative. When engaging with nature, ensure the consumption of fresh produce and water is free from pathogens by washing the food thoroughly to remove dirt and potential contaminants, and always boil water. If the produce has a tougher skin, consider using a vegetable brush for added safety. For those planning hiking or camping trips, wearing proper footwear is crucial. It not only

His energy policies hark back to a bygone era of fossil fuel dominance even as he champions cutting-edge AI technologies. His trade policies pit him against China and traditional allies, yet he seeks closer ties with India. I find myself torn, just as I was during the 1.0 era. There is an undeniable brilliance in Trump’s ability to dominate the narrative, to reshape not just policies but the way the world perceives America. Yet, there is also a recklessness to his approach, a willingness to alienate allies, disregard long-term consequences and court chaos for the sake of short-term wins. Watching Trump is like watching a storm. There is a certain awe in the sheer force of his actions but also a deep concern for what might be left in his wake. His presidency is not just about governance, it is about reshaping history, one executive order at a time. Whether Trump’s actions will propel the US to new heights or lead to irreversible damage is a question only time will tell. For now, we are all spectators to a presidency that continues to confound, astonish and divide in equal measure. Dr Bhavani Krishna Iyer holds a doctorate in English literature. Her professional background encompasses teaching, journalism and public relations. She is currently pursuing a second master’s degree in counselling. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com

an audacious spectacle, even by his standards. Love him or loathe him, the former real estate mogul turned political juggernaut has begun reshaping the United States’ domestic and foreign policies at breakneck speed. His actions reflect a man determined to leave an indelible mark while blatantly erasing the legacy of his predecessor Joe Biden. Trump’s executive orders are not just policy statements, but rather they are declarations of intent. Most of them are direct reversals of Biden-era initiatives, a deliberate swipe at the senior statesman he has openly criticised as weak and ineffective. The speed with which he has dismantled Biden’s policies, from energy to taxation and trade, shows not only his disdain for the past administration but also his intent to solidify his vision of “America First”. Whether this vision will lead to prosperity or chaos remains to be seen. One of Trump’s most striking actions has been his withdrawal of US support for global corporate tax reforms. Biden had championed international collaboration to establish a global minimum corporate tax rate, a landmark effort aimed at curbing tax evasion by multinational companies. Trump’s decision to abandon this accord not only jeopardises years of negotiations but SCHOOL holidays in Malaysia are a time for families to step away from daily routines and embrace the joys of travel and adventure. Whether it is camping in lush rainforests, hiking through serene trails or spending a day at a petting zoo, these activities promise lasting memories. Yet, amid the fun and excitement, it is easy to overlook the invisible risks that come with our interactions with nature and animals – zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases or infections transmitted from animals to humans may not cross your mind as you pack your picnic basket or set up your tent. However, they are a real concern, particularly during holiday activities that bring us closer to nature and the animal world. While these encounters enrich our lives, they can also expose us to health risks that are often hidden beneath the surface. During a recent hike with a group of friends, I was reminded of how intertwined we are with nature. As we admired a crystal-clear stream, and after we had completely drained our drinking water, a friend asked if it was safe to drink from and wade in its inviting waters. As tempting as it was, I hesitated. Streams, rivers and lakes, especially those surrounded by wildlife, are potential habitats for a whole range of pathogenic parasites and bacteria such as leptospira . Carried through the urine of infected animals, leptospira can cause leptospirosis, a disease that starts with fever and muscle aches but can escalate to kidney damage or even death if untreated. However, boiling or adding a disinfectant tablet can eliminate these dangers. Similarly, petting zoos – charming as they are – pose their own set of challenges. Children, with their natural curiosity and tendency to touch everything, are particularly susceptible to zoonotic risks in such environments. Animals may carry gastrointestinal parasites like cryptosporidium or giardia , which can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting. These parasites

Efforts are underway to arrange a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with discussions focusing on strengthening trade ties and facilitating skilled worker visas for Indian citizens. India, eager to attract US investment, has shown willingness to offer concessions, creating an opportunity for mutual economic gain. While Trump’s policies have generated optimism in some sectors, they have also introduced significant volatility. His unveiling of the US$500 billion “Stargate” AI project, a partnership with tech giants like Oracle, OpenAI and SoftBank, has spurred rallies in AI-related stocks. This ambitious initiative to bolster US AI infrastructure reflects Trump’s recognition of technology’s central role in economic growth and national security. However, other sectors have not fared as well. Apple, for instance, has faced a decline in its stock price amid concerns over iPhone sales in China. Broader market reactions to Trump’s announcements underscore the unpredictable terrain he is creating. Even Wall Street stalwarts like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon have voiced concerns about inflated asset prices, cautioning that geopolitical tensions and economic risks could undermine long-term stability. Trump’s presidency continues to be a study

COMMENT By Prof Dr Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain Unseen threats in holiday adventures

Children should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals, soil or water sources. – BERNAMAPIC

prevents injuries but also minimises direct contact with contaminated soil or water. If wading in water is unavoidable, water-resistant boots can offer an extra layer of protection. Treat cuts and grazes immediately. Lastly, always be vigilant for any signs of illness after a holiday outing. Symptoms like fever, diarrhoea or muscle pain should not be ignored. If anyone in your family experiences such symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early medical attention can make a significant difference in preventing complications. Shared responsibility As parents and caregivers, our role extends beyond planning itineraries and packing snacks. Just as we prepare for physical challenges like rainy weather or steep trails, we must also equip ourselves to protect our families from the unseen

threats that holiday adventures can bring. Reflecting on this, I am reminded of George Knightley’s wise words to Emma Woodhouse: “There is a comfort in having a decided opinion, even if it be only a decided opinion that something must be done.” Indeed, something must be done – not to avoid nature or animals but to engage with them responsibly. Let us embrace the school holiday season with open hearts and informed minds. By taking a few simple health precautions, we can ensure that our adventures are not only memorable but also safe and enriching. Prof Dr Siti Nursheena Mohd Zain is a professor at the Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya and an advocate for zoonotic disease awareness. Comments: letters@thesundaily.com