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Friday, April 24, 2026

Chinese scientists discover rare-earth-rich new lunar minerals in Chang'e-5 mission samples

Ideal crystal structure of magnesiochangesite-(Y). Photo: Courtesy of Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology

Ideal crystal structure of magnesiochangesite-(Y). Photo: Courtesy of Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology


Ideal crystal structure of changesite-(Ce). Photo: Courtesy of Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences

Ideal crystal structure of changesite-(Ce). Photo: Courtesy of Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences


Chinese scientists have identified two previously unknown lunar minerals from the 1,731 grams of moon samples returned by Chang'e-5 mission, marking another major breakthrough in deep-space research. The findings were announced on Friday at the opening ceremony of the 11th China Space Day. The two newly discovered minerals have been officially approved and classified by the International Mineralogical Association. They are named magnesiochangesite-(Y) and changesite-(Ce).

This marks the second and third lunar minerals discovered by Chinese scientists, following the first discovery of changesite-(Y) in 2022. Globally, they are the seventh and eighth new lunar minerals identified in returned lunar samples.

The release of their ideal crystal structures drew strong reactions at the event. Though only a few micrometers in size, the crystals reveal the microscopic beauty hidden beneath the Moon's barren surface and reinforce the idea that the Moon is a vast and resource-rich body.

Global Times reporters learned that both minerals belong to the rare-earth phosphate category and are embedded within lunar dust. Their crystal structures are unique, with no exact counterparts found on Earth. They are part of the merrillite group, a class of phosphate minerals commonly found in samples from the Moon, Mars, and asteroids, but showing compositional diversity across different planetary bodies.

Magnesiochangesite-(Y) was discovered by a research team led by scientist Li Ziying from the Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology (BRIUG). The mineral appears as short columnar crystals, typically 2 to 30 micrometers in size, and is mainly found within basalt fragments in drilled lunar samples.

Researchers said the mineral's Chinese name plays on the homophone for magnesium  and "beauty", symbolizing a more beautiful and distinctive form of changesite-(Y). Ge Xiangkun, a researcher at the BRIUG, told the Global Times that magnesiochangesite-(Y) has a unique structure. Magnesium dominates the M site in its crystal lattice, and the particles are extremely small - about one-third to one-thirtieth the diameter of a human hair - making them invisible to the naked eye.

Identifying such a mineral was exceptionally challenging. Scientists analyzed tens of thousands of particles, comparing data repeatedly to isolate anomalies distinct from known minerals. Ultimately, they found only a single ideal crystal - just 20 micrometers wide - suitable for testing.

Handling the sample required extreme precision. Scientists had to transfer it between advanced instruments while carefully controlling airflow to avoid losing the particle. Extracting the crystal using a focused ion beam scanning electron microscope was likened to performing microsurgery, where even slight excess force could destroy the specimen, Ge said.

"As a new member of the merrillite group, magnesiochangesite-(Y) offers a fresh mineralogical sample for studying lunar formation, magmatic activity, and chemical differentiation, helping scientists better understand the Moon's geological history," he said.

Changesite-(Ce) was discovered by a team led by academician Hou Zengqian from the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences. It was identified both in Chang'e-5 lunar samples and in a lunar meteorite that fell in China.

"Changesite-(Ce) is a phosphate mineral rich in the rare-earth element cerium, belonging to the merrillite group. Compared with minerals of the same group found in samples from Earth, Mars, and asteroids, it shows a clear enrichment in rare earth elements and thus serves as a 'fingerprint' planetary mineral," Hou told the Global Times.

He added that the newly discovered changesite-(Ce) shares the same structural model as the changesite-(Y) previously identified by Chinese researchers, but differs in rare-earth element occupancy: the former is dominated by the light rare-earth element cerium (Ce), while the latter is dominated by the heavy rare-earth element yttrium (Y).

Hou noted a key difference between samples returned by the Apollo program and those from Chang'e-5: Apollo samples tend to be enriched in heavy rare-earth elements, whereas Chang'e-5 samples show enrichment in light rare-earth elements. This suggests significant differentiation of rare-earth elements during the Moon's magmatic evolution.

The discovery is particularly notable because it is based on two distinct sample sources: lunar soil from the Oceanus Procellarum region collected by Chang'e-5, and a lunar meteorite named Pakepake 005 found in China's Taklimakan Desert in 2024 - the first officially recognized lunar meteorite discovered in the country.

The discovery of changesite-(Ce) was also highly challenging. Wang Yanjuan, the mineral's first discoverer and a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, told the Global Times that during their study of samples from the Chang'e-5 mission and the first lunar meteorite recovered in China, the research team employed a range of advanced in-situ analytical techniques - including nanoindentation, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscopy, electron probe analysis, Raman spectroscopy, single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and three-dimensional electron diffraction - to systematically determine the mineral's physical properties, chemical composition, and crystal structure, ultimately confirming it as a previously unrecorded natural mineral.

The discovery of changesite-(Ce) not only broadens our understanding of the natural world, but also offers new possibilities for synthetic materials, Qu Kai, a member of the New Mineral Nomenclature and Classification Professional Committee of the Chinese Society of Petrology and Geochemistry, told the Global Times. He noted that the mineral exhibits a pronounced luminescent effect, showing strong potential for applications in the development of phosphor materials for white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs).

Academician Hou further explained that the discovery of the changesite-(Y) series minerals not only enriches the diversity of natural minerals - particularly those on the Moon - but also reveals the crystal chemical complexity of merrillite-group minerals in lunar soil, highlighting the diversity of the Moon's material composition and its evolutionary processes. As rare-earth-rich minerals, they also provide fundamental data for assessing the Moon's rare-earth resource potential and future in-situ resource utilization

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2024/04/27 Source: Global Times | Author: Fan Anqi | Column: Society

China launches new test satellites for internet technology

China successfully sent a new set of test satellites for internet technology into space from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the southwestern Sichuan Province on Friday.




Thursday, April 23, 2026

Mixed property outlook amid higher oil prices

 High-rise and luxury segments seen most vulnerable

PPC International MD Datuk Siders Sittampalam

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s property market remains an appealing investment avenue despite increasing global uncertainties, according to industry experts.

PPC International Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Siders Sittampalam said the local property market remains attractive to investors despite the ongoing West Asia crisis.

“However, the appeal is likely to be selective rather than broad-based, with investment decisions increasingly adopting a sector-led approach.

“It is important to recognise that Malaysia’s property market continues to be driven largely by domestic fundamentals, rather than direct exposure to the Middle East,” he told StarBiz.

An analyst said investing in property during global economic uncertainty “still makes sense,” adding, however, that it is “no longer about riding a broad market upswing”.

“It’s about selectivity, resilience, and long-term thinking. Property remains attractive because it’s a tangible, income-generating asset.”

Amid uncertain times, he said investors often value “stability.”

“Real estate can provide relatively predictable rental income and act as a partial hedge against inflation. Compared to more volatile assets like equities, it tends to be less reactive to short-term global shocks.”

However, he said the current environment has changed the investment outlook.

“Higher construction costs, cautious lending and more price-sensitive buyers mean that not all properties will perform well. Oversupply in certain segments, especially high-density developments, can limit both rental yields and capital appreciation.

“At the same time, global uncertainties can affect job markets and consumer confidence, indirectly impacting demand,” he said.

Compared with many countries in the region, Siders noted that Malaysia’s political neutrality provides a degree of stability.

“As such, the crisis is expected to affect the market only indirectly, primarily through higher oil prices, inflationary pressures and shifts in investor sentiment.

“One key reason the market remains attractive is that, during periods of geopolitical uncertainty, investors tend to rotate away from volatile equities into hard assets such as real estate.”

Siders emphasised that property, particularly income-producing assets, is generally less sensitive to short-term volatility affecting equities and other financial instruments.

“That said, the principal risk lies in a prolonged period of elevated oil prices, which could translate into higher domestic transportation costs, increased steel and concrete prices, pressure on rental affordability and slower take-up rates for high-end residential properties.”

Collectively, Siders said these factors may erode household disposable income and temper overall market momentum.

“In my view, investment strategies should now be anchored on income generation and strong underlying fundamentals, rather than expectations of capital appreciation or speculative gains.”

One market observer said that in times of uncertainty, the key question isn’t whether to invest, but rather “how to invest.”

“Investors should focus on properties with strong fundamentals – good locations, access to infrastructure, proximity to employment hubs and realistic pricing.

“Rental demand is especially important now, as steady income can offset slower price growth. A longer investment horizon also becomes critical, since quick gains are less likely in a cautious market cycle.”

Amid current economic uncertainties, a property analyst said there would be an impact on the market should things escalate further or be prolonged.

In such a situation, he said the impact would vary depending on the property segment. He said high-rise condominiums, especially in Kuala Lumpur, would be the most vulnerable segment.

“This segment would be the hardest hit because buyers here are often investors or middle- to upper-income earners.”

He noted that this segment also tends to be more sensitive to economic uncertainty, rental yields and short-term sentiment.

“Should oil prices spike, investors here will likely pull back and there will be fewer speculative purchases.

“The number of expatriates would also shrink if the global economy slows. Moreover, rental demand for these types of properties could also soften.”

Ultimately, this could lead to slower price growth or stagnation for high-rise condominiums.

“There would be higher unsold inventory. This is already an issue for condominiums within the Klang Valley,” he said.

Similarly, luxury and high-end properties are also at high risk, he noted.

“This segment is highly dependent on foreign buyers and investor sentiment.

“Oil price spikes often come with global uncertainty, which reduces foreign inflows and makes buyers more cautious. In such situations, transactions within this segment could drop significantly and prices may stagnate or correct.”

On the flip side, he said affordable houses (or mass-market properties) would be the most resilient if global economic conditions continue to worsen.

“This segment holds up better because it is driven by genuine need for owner occupation rather than investment.

“It is also often supported by government schemes and financing access. Even if oil prices push up living costs, people still need homes.

“Demand may slow slightly, but the segment still remains relatively stable. Prices may still inch up, albeit more slowly.”

Nevertheless, higher oil prices equals higher fuel costs, he noted. “Therefore, commuting can become more expensive.

“In such cases, locations far from city centres may see reduced appeal, while well-connected areas (especially ones near mass rapid transits and light rail transits) will hold their value better.”    

By EUGENE MAHALINGAM eugenicz@thestar.com.my

Saturday, April 18, 2026

Be cau­tious when using chat­bots

 Study shows these ai-powered vir­tual assist­ants dish out a sig­ni­fic­ant amount of inac­cur­ate med­ical inform­a­tion.

Monday, April 13, 2026

MBPP first local agency to launch AI chatbot

 

MBPP smart city unit staff Alia Jasmani and S. Shanmugapiriya giving an explanation to new user Lee Tzyy Chii, 38, on ChatMBPP during the launch in Bayan Lepas. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star

Penang Island City Council (MBPP) has launched its Gen.AI chatbot called ChatMBPP.

Developed by MBPP’s Smart City Unit with input from all 19 internal departments, the artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot supports four languages – Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin and Tamil.

ChatMBPP can respond to queries and initiate actions such as generating complaint tickets and routing them to relevant departments automatically.

The system is also part of MBPP’s agentic AI phase, enabling it to not only respond but trigger internal processes.

Rajendran says ChatMBPP will be a game changer in public service delivery.
Rajendran says ChatMBPP will be a game changer in public service delivery.

The system is currently in beta, with MBPP noting that responses were AI-generated and for reference only, with accuracy to be improved over time.

Penang island mayor Datuk A. Rajendran said ChatMBPP was a game changer in public service delivery, offering round-the-clock access for users to obtain information, lodge complaints and use the city council services.

“It brings MBPP closer to the people and moves us towards a smarter, more responsive digital administration.

“It serves as a simple, fast and user-friendly digital platform that operates 24/7, enabling seamless interaction between the public and local authority.

“ChatMBPP is specifically designed to handle queries related to MBPP’s city management functions, including services, procedures, public complaints, enforcement, taxation and responsibilities.

“The initiative aligns with national efforts to build AI-driven cities and complements frameworks such as Penang2030 and the Malaysia Smart City agenda, while maintaining human oversight to ensure accuracy and quality,” said Rajendran.

Gen.AI was launched by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at Queensbay Mall, alongside Penang local government, town and country planning committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye and Digital Ministry secretary-general Datuk Fabian Bigar.

Chow said the launch represented a shift in how the government engaged with the public.

Chow: ChatMBPP serves as a key entry point into a Penang AI City ecosystem.
Chow: ChatMBPP serves as a key entry point into a Penang AI City ecosystem.

“As we move towards Industrial Revolution 4.0 and adopt AI, government service delivery must also evolve to be faster, more accurate and without bureaucratic hurdles.”

Chow said Penang, which contributed 44.2% or RM65bil to Malaysia’s exports as of January 2026, could no longer rely on traditional and slower administrative methods.

He added that the initiative laid the foundation for a “Penang AI City”, where data was used to improve quality of life in an inclusive manner, with ChatMBPP serving as a key entry point into that ecosystem.

The chatbot is built on Amazon Web Services infrastructure and is tailored specifically for PP’s scope of services, including city management, enforcement, taxation and public complaints.MB

Fabian said the move represented a new benchmark for local authorities, describing it as a model for how generative AI could be applied in public service delivery nationwide.

He added that Digital Ministry had approved a 5G grant to support the initiative, enabling faster, real-time responses through robust infrastructure

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America’s war crimes

hid Hussain

While detailing the extensive operation conducted by the US forces to rescue the crew of a fighter jet shot down by Iranian missiles, he seemed uncertain about the endgame in a war that has now entered its sixth week. His contradictory statements on how the war could end has left the world perplexed. After escalating his threat to decimate Iran, he hinted at a “less radicalised” Iranian leadership and a diplomatic solution. He claimed that regime change had already occurred in Iran.

Trump seemed unconcerned that his threat to bomb Iranian infrastructure could constitute a war crime. Earlier, he sparked a political firestorm by posting an expletive-laden warning to Iran and threatening further military escalation if Tehran did not reopen the Strait of Hormuz and agree to a deal on his terms. He also suggested seizing Iran’s oil fields, declaring, “To the victor belong the spoils”, as if he had already won the war.

The madness of the leader at the helm of the world’s most powerful nation seems knows no bounds. He is becoming increasingly dangerous, especially as Iran continues to refuse to capitulate despite the extensive destruction wrought by the US and Israel on its soil.

His delusional claims and mixed messages have left the world anxious. With only a day remaining, at the time of writing, before his deadline, the international community awaited Trump’s next move, particularly since Iran has rejected his ceasefire demands and threatened severe reprisals. The madness of the leader at the helm of the world’s most powerful nation seems knows no bounds. He is becoming increasingly dangerous, especially as Iran continues to refuse to capitulate despite the extensive destruction wrought by the US and Israel on its soil.

Trump’s growing war crimes and his latest threats are ominous. America, in coordination with Israel, has intensified attacks not only on civilian and energy infrastructure but also on educational and research centres. Several university campuses have been bombed. This appears to be part of Trump’s threat to decimate Iran.

According to Iranian authorities, at least 30 universities have been hit by US and Israel since the start of the war. Last week, a US-Israeli strike caused severe destruction at the Sharif University of Technology in Tehran. Widely considered Iran’s best university, it is also ranked among the world’s top universities in the field of civil engineering and artificial intelligence. The iconic institution, which is a symbol of Iran’s modernisation, has produced some world-renowned mathematicians and engineers. Media reports suggest that many laboratories have been destroyed as the campus infrastructure was hit. The US-Israel coalition also bombed the Laser and Plasma Research Institute.

America, in coordination with Israel, has intensified attacks not only on civilian and energy infrastructure but also on educational and research centres. Photo: Reuters

 

Ignoring international outrage and condemnation, the US and Israel have continued to target academic institutions with an impunity rarely seen in modern history. In addition to striking university campuses, the US-Israel coalition has targeted eminent scientists and scholars. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed reports that Israeli strikes have killed several Iranian nuclear scientists, framing the campaign as part of a larger effort to destroy Iran’s nuclear programme.

Such attacks, aimed at decimating centres of higher learning and the scientific environment, not only violate international law but also constitute war crimes. These actions will perpetuate Israel’s American-backed genocidal war in Gaza and the wanton destruction of Lebanon. On the first day of the war, American missiles struck a school in Iran killing more than 150 girl students. Most concerning is the effort by the Trump administration to frame the conflict with Iran in religious and civilisational terms. Recently, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth called for prayers for military victory “in the name of Jesus Christ”.

According to a report in the New York Times, “More than any top American military leader in recent history, Mr Hegseth has framed US military operations [...] as bigger than politics or foreign policy. Often he has imbued these actions with a Christian moral underpinning... .” He also prayed for “overwhelming violence of action against those who deserve no mercy”. 

American troops are reportedly told that the conflict in Iran is aimed at paving the way for the end times and Armageddon. The belief is that Trump “has been anointed by Jesus to light the signal fire in Iran to trigger Armageddon and mark His return to Earth”.

In a recent Pentagon news briefing, Hegseth reportedly stated: “Crazy regimes like Iran, hell-bent on [religious] delusions, cannot have nuclear weapons.” Religion is also employed to justify America’s support for Israel.

Mike Huckabee, American ambassador to Israel, reportedly told prominent commentator Tucker Carlson that it would be “fine” if Israel took “essentially the entire Middle East” because it was promised the land in the Bible. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu compared Iran to the Amalekites, seen in Jewish tradition as representing evil.

US President Donald Trump has claimed he could ‘take out Iran in one night’ and has reiterated his threat to bomb the country ‘back to the Stone Ages.’ Photo: AFP

 

It is extremely dangerous to rationalise an imperialist war of aggression through religious and civilisational rhetoric. Trump’s actions have pushed the region closer to a wider conflagration and have also impacted the global economy. His latest statements have raised fears of further escalation.

The calculated assassinations of senior Iranian political and military leaders have created a serious leadership vacuum, likely to be filled by more radical elements, making any efforts at mediation extremely difficult.

While America and Israel can decimate Iran’s civil and military infrastructure, they cannot force it to capitulate. Iran has hardened its position, given the relentless destruction of its land, complicating any attempts at de-escalation. Trump’s threats of escalation have worsened the situation. We will have to wait and see what he does next.


This article was first published in The Dawn, an ANN partner of The Daily Star, on April 8, 2026.


Zahid Hussain is a Pakistani journalist and author. His Twitter handle is @hidhussain