02/10/2024

Defence has proven 99% of money in former PM’s account not used for personal purposes: Lawyer Counsel grilled over Najib’s expenditures

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Country to forge partnerships with industry leaders, enhance cooperation among stakeholders to expedite Asean digitalisation process, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Country to forge partnerships with industry leaders enhance cooperation among stakeholders M’sia aiming for AI-driven badge

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DELUGE DESTRUCTION ... Roshi village in Nepal’s Kavre district is seen in total devastation in the aftermath of widespread monsoon flooding that has also caused massive landslides. – AFPPIC

MACC goes hi-tech in probe methods Investigative approach more streamlined and efficient over past five years, says chief commissioner.

NGO calls for more attention at ports and airports, while urging logistics firms to help curb shipping of animal parts. Illegal wildlife trade rife despite stricter law

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M’sia aiming to be leading AI-driven nation in Asean o Country would also be champion for forward looking and transformative digital policies, says PM

Action plans launched for elderly healthcare PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry launched the Elderly Healthcare Services Action Plan 2023-2030 and the Dementia Action Plan 2023-2030 yesterday. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said both plans outline the direction of healthcare services up to 2030 for the elderly. He added that the plans include strategies to empower elderly healthcare, ensuring that they remain healthy within the community through prevention and self-care programmes, alongside comprehensive, integrated healthcare services based on a “patient-centred care” approach. Dzulkefly said one of the objectives is to expand access to primary healthcare services for the elderly, particularly through rural clinics, which began in July 2019, and as of June, a total of 416 such clinics are involved. “These action plans provide a clearer and more strategic direction for implementing holistic and effective healthcare services, utilising a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach,” he said at the Senior Citizens Day 2024 celebration organised by the ministry. Dzulkefly said healthcare matters, including the promotion of healthy ageing, are collective responsibilities shared across all levels of society as Malaysia transitions towards being an ageing nation. This year’s Senior Citizens Day celebration, themed Sihat Madani Di Usia Emas, focused on activities that promote the importance of healthy and dignified ageing, beginning with early disease prevention, especially for non-communicable diseases, and the cultivation of a healthy lifestyle through Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat . He said the ministry is enhancing the implementation guidelines for senior citizens clubs, which will also serve as a framework for all 256 clubs currently active under it. The guidelines, expected to be ready by next year, aim to empower senior citizens to manage their own health, ensuring their functional abilities are maintained and the onset of age-related decline is delayed. Malaysia is projected to become an ageing nation by 2035, when 15% of its population will consist of senior citizens. – Bernama PBB to launch new youth wing KUCHING: Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) is set to establish a protem committee for its new youth wing, targeting members aged 18 to 28. PBB secretary-general Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said all necessary procedures and regulations for the formation of the new wing have been completed and will be tabled at the party’s general assembly next year. “The regulations must be presented at the general assembly, approved by the Registrar of Societies and only then can they be fully implemented,” he said in a statement released by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit yesterday. Nanta, who is also works minister and Kapit MP, earlier attended the PBB supreme council meeting chaired by party president and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg on Monday. Also present were PBB deputy president Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, senior vice-presidents Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof and Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom and permanent chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar. – Bernama

billion (RM83.5 billion) in 2023, is set to grow further as we work towards a target of US$25 billion (RM104 billion) in the next two years,” he said at the Malaysia National Day reception in New Delhi on Monday. Muzafar said the establishment of the Malaysia-India Digital Council has created the potential for closer cooperation in areas such as cybersecurity, AI and digital public infrastructure. The reception was attended by about 300 people, including the heads of Asean diplomatic missions, ambassadors of several countries, government officials and local community members. The guests also watched a Malaysian traditional cultural performance by a group of students from Universiti Sains Malaysia studying at KLE University in Karnataka in south India. India External Affairs Ministry secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar underlined keen interest on both sides and high-level engagements to strengthen relations, including people-to-people links and tourism. He encouraged business people in India and Malaysia to take advantage of the growing relationship.

Elmina Business Park, Selangor yesterday. Anwar added that from a regional perspective, Malaysia would position itself as a champion for forward-looking and transformative digital policies. He said this approach aims to foster a regulatory environment that encourages technological advancement and nurtures cross-border collaboration, Bernama reported. “I am encouraged that a global tech company like Google recognises the potential of our nation and is determined to contribute to our growth in a sincere and environmentally responsible manner. “I cannot overstress this. We are not just looking to attract any data centre investment, we want partners who share our values towards a sustainable future.” Meanwhile, Malaysian High Commissioner to India Datuk Muzafar Shah Mustafa said Anwar’s recent visit to New Delhi has provided a fresh impetus to Malaysia-India relations as the two countries are looking to grow bilateral trade by 25% in the next two years. He said the visit “marked a significant milestone” as bilateral ties were raised to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August. “Our trade, which reached close to US$20

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Malaysia will forge partnerships with industry leaders and enhance cooperation with stakeholders to position itself as a leading artificial intelligence (AI) driven nation in Asean. He emphasised that digitalisation in Asean is one of Malaysia’s priorities as the country prepares to assume the chair of the regional group. “The issue of digitalisation and networks is not only for Malaysia but for the entire region. We should be able to listen and engage with the Google team to explore ways to expedite and accelerate this (digitalisation) process,” he said during his official speech at Google’s groundbreaking ceremony for its US$2 billion (RM8.3 billion) data centre and cloud region in

Anwar a memento from Alphabet and Google president and chief investment officer Ruth Porat at the event in Kuala Lumpur yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC receiving

‘Up to Cabinet to end T20 tertiary education subsidies’ SHAH ALAM: The removal of education subsidies for children of affluent families at public higher education institutions will only be implemented once it has been approved by the Cabinet, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. Month 2024 at Universiti Teknologi Mara yesterday. groups should continue to be a priority under the Madani economic agenda, using the education sector as an example, in which children from affluent families are benefiting from government-funded education, unlike the less fortunate.

Zambry was asked about Anwar’s statement that hinted at the government’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable groups in Budget 2025. He said the government’s current emphasis is on ensuring that the high-income group (T20) assumes a social and moral responsibility not to exploit government subsidies. “The prime minister’s view is that, in the past, higher education subsidies were distributed broadly without targeting deserving groups, particularly the B40 and segments of the M40. I believe this reflects the principle of social justice and moral responsibility of the wealthier class. “They should recognise that while benefiting from university privileges, their children might not need such subsidies.” Anwar had said the welfare of vulnerable

Zambry also announced that Academia Day should be celebrated on Oct 5 yearly with greater prestige, comparable to Teachers’Day, to recognise the dedication and contributions of lecturers and scholars in higher education institutions. He pointed out that their unseen efforts play a significant role in the country’s education and development. “Starting next year, I hope we can celebrate this day more grandly, including recognition ceremonies for professors, lecturers and educators from universities, polytechnics and community colleges.” – Bernama

He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks on Monday reflect the government’s awareness and the expectation that high-income earners have a moral responsibility to make educational opportunities more accessible to vulnerable groups. “We will proceed with the discontinuation (of subsidies) once a Cabinet decision is made. “What the prime minister is stressing now is the moral responsibility of this group (the wealthy) to understand the importance of ensuring that educational opportunities are directed towards those who truly need them,”he said after officiating at the National Academia

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3 MACC uses advanced tech to improve probe methods

New dept director general appointed PUTRAJAYA: Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar has announced the appointment of Islamic Development Department deputy director-general (Policy) Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee as the department’s new director-general, effective immediately. Sirajuddin, 57, succeeds Datuk Hakimah Mohd Yusoff, who held the position since March 21, 2022. Shamsul Azri said the appointment aims to strengthen the delivery of Islamic affairs services and solidify the department’s role as the leading sector for Islamic affairs in Malaysia. He said Sirajuddin, who holds a bachelor’s degree in syariah law from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, began his public service career as the Selangor Islamic Religious Department assistant director ( Dakwah ) on Jan 2, 1992. Shamsul Azri also announced Hakimah’s appointment as coordinator of religious affairs, responsible for coordination between the Islamic Development Department, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and the Halal Development Corporation Bhd, effective yesterday. He said Hakimah, who made history as the first woman to be appointed as director-general of the department, would play a pivotal role in enhancing the management of Malaysian halal affairs. “With these appointments, it is hoped that the department would continue to elevate the stature of Islam and position itself as a comprehensive and competitive federal agency for Islamic affairs on the global stage.” – Bernama Malacca varsity wins Asean award MALACCA: Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka won the Energy Management Award for Buildings and Industry at the Asean Energy Awards (AEA) in Vientiane, Laos on Monday. Its vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Massila Kamalrudin expressed pride in the university being selected as Malaysia’s representative at AEA. “It is the highest recognition for institutions and organisations in driving sustainable energy management at the regional level. “The achievement positions Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka as a leading university in sustainable energy management not only within Malaysia but also in Southeast Asia.“ She said the university remains committed to innovating and becoming a regional leader in sustainable energy management, Bernama reported. She also said the university would continue to support future sustainable energy agendas in line with its 2023-2025 strategic pillars and the country’s Sustainable Development Goals.

o Open-source system analyses whereabouts of suspects and swiftly gathers info to build profiles: Chief commissioner

PUTRAJAYA: Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is incorporating advanced technology into its investigative methods to address the growing complexity of corruption cases. Chief Commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said the investigative approach has become more streamlined and efficient over the past five years, using an open-source system that swiftly gathers information to build suspect profiles. He said the system, which has been widely used abroad, allows MACC to analyse the whereabouts of suspects and additional information required before further investigations are carried out. “Five years ago, we relied heavily on field intelligence officers but now we use our system to analyse and track suspects,” he said during a special interview at his office in conjunction with the 57th anniversary of MACC. He said technology enables investigations and intelligence gathering to be conducted quickly, efficiently and thoroughly, which has indirectly led to an increase in convictions. The Malaysian

developments in Kathmandu and provide updates on social media.” Malaysians who need assistance are advised to contact the embassy at +977-98010 08000. Xinhua reported that the death toll from the floods and landslides in Nepal has reached 192 as of Monday morning. Nepal Home Affairs Ministry spokesman Rishiram Tiwari said 30 individuals are missing and 194 injured. Higher salary ceiling for Socso contributions KUALA LUMPUR: The Human Resources Ministry, through the Social Security Organisation (Socso), is raising the salary ceiling for contributions from RM5,000 to RM6,000 per month, effective yesterday. Socso said the change is in line with amendments to the Employee Social Security Act 1969 (Act 4) and the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800). “The contribution applicable to employees earning between RM5,000 and RM6,000 per month will be specified in the Third Schedule of Act 4 and the Second Schedule of Act 800. “This increase would provide better benefits for employees with salaries exceeding RM5,000 by raising the existing interest payment rate by up to 20.2%.” About 1.5 million workers would be affected by the increase. – Bernama “Together with the Inland Revenue Board, we have recovered RM500 million this year to be returned to the government. This is a positive catalyst. If more enforcement agencies work together, we could recover more funds lost to criminal activities.” government revenue leakage, estimated at RM277 billion over the past five years. He also said MACC is placing greater emphasis on investigating public interest cases, particularly those involving the conduct of groups of officers or enforcement personnel. MACC has conducted four major operations this year, including Op Samba , which targeted smuggling activities at KL International Airport, in which over RM2 billion was leaked over the past three years, resulting in charges against 23 customs officers. Based on available information, about RM30 billion in revenue has been lost to the black market due to criminal activities, such as smuggling, gambling and corruption. Enforcement agencies must make a concerted effort to recover these funds.

priority in preventing government fund leakage. He said according to its statistics from 2020 to 2024, MACC received 30,483 tip-offs related to corruption, with 17,892 cases involving civil servants. “During this period, MACC initiated 2,123 investigations and detained 2,046 civil servants, of which 1,036 were charged in court and 464 were convicted.” He said the offences included 1,124 cases of accepting bribes, 445 cases of making false claims, 19 cases of offering bribes, 320 cases of power abuse, 57 cases of money laundering, 153 cases under the Penal Code and five cases under other laws. He added that MACC is prioritising cases related to enforcement, procurement and grand corruption, noting that grand corruption is the leading cause of

He added that MACC is training its officers in cybersecurity and cryptocurrency as these have become the latest platforms that criminals use to conceal their illicit gains from corruption. “Our officers are being trained and equipped with skills to detect cryptocurrency used to conceal illicit funds, enabling successful prosecution and recovery of assets for the government.” He said MACC has formed a tactical team to ensure the safety of its personnel during operations in dangerous areas, such as the recent raid in Sibu, Sarawak. He also said the team comprises 20 officers equipped with the latest weapons and trained by VAT 69 Commandos in Perak, Bernama reported. Azam stressed that fighting corruption in the public sector remains the agency’s top

ELECTRIFYING EVENT ... Visitors admiring an exhibition at Menara Miti in Kuala Lumpur yesterday in conjunction with Miti Day, which also featured a career carnival and live performances. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Malaysians advised to postpone travels to Nepal KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are advised to postpone their travels to Nepal following floods and landslides due to continuous rains. Kathmandu-based Malaysian that rain is expected to start on Oct 1 and last until Oct 5. advising Malaysians in Nepal to contact the embassy in case of emergencies. He said the price of food in Kathmandu has doubled due to the bad weather.

He also said 25 Malaysians were affected by the floods and landslides. “Most were on their way back from Pokhara to Kathmandu. With the help of local agents and the embassy, they safely reached Kathmandu on Sunday.” He said there are several groups that have just started their climb in Nepal, Bernama reported. “The embassy has not received emergency notification. It will continue to monitor the latest

“For those planning to visit Nepal, we advise them to postpone their trips as routes out of Kathmandu are cut off. The water level is high and bridges connecting Kathmandu are completely destroyed. “Everyone is advised to postpone travelling to Nepal until authorities declare it is safe and the roads and highways are repaired,” he said,

embassy chargé d’affaires Mohd Firdaus Azman said continuous rain since Sept 26 has caused many highways and roads throughout the country to be flooded and disconnected. He said the Nepal Hydrology and Meteorology Department has warned

“Following agricultural areas being affected, food supply being cut off and the transport system being affected, the price of food has doubled. The price of vegetables has increased fivefold.”

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Weak enforcement hindering effectiveness of wildlife laws

Orang Asli in Kuala Betis plead for ATM to be installed GUA MUSANG: The Orang Asli community here has made an earnest plea for the installation of automatic teller machines (ATM) and cash deposit machines (CDM) at the Kuala Betis Settlement to meet their banking needs. Siti Nornadia Kamarzaman, 37, explained that the availability of such facilities would be highly beneficial for the community, helping them save on fuel costs due to the long distance they must travel to the city. “We are requesting ATM and CDM here because Kuala Betis serves as the entry and exit point for the Orang Asli population in the rural settlements within the Galas and Nenggiri state constituency areas. This would also shorten our journey, as residents from Pos Hau, Pos Belatim, Pos Balar, Pos Bihai, Pos Simpor and Pos Gob currently have to ride motorbikes for over 70km to reach Gua Musang town,” she told Bernama yesterday. Similarly, Norasyikin Uda, 46, added that not all villagers own vehicles and many are forced to rent cars at a cost of about RM50 to travel in and out of the city. “Most residents in this area have no other option and must pay travel costs, which could otherwise be used to meet basic family needs,” she said. A recent survey revealed that residents still have to travel to the nearest bank in Gua Musang, which is a 40-minute journey, to make cash withdrawals and deposits. – Bernama Centre pledges RM75,000 for heart campaign KUALA LUMPUR: Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) has pledged incentives worth RM75,000 through its partnership with the Rotary Club Shah Alam (RCSA) for the Save the Heart campaign. SMC announced that 25 underserved individuals will be offered complimentary heart screening packages, while up to 100 selected recipients will receive subsidised heart screening packages in celebration of the centre’s 25th anniversary. “The initiative was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding with RCSA to support the club’s efforts to improve community health. With heart-related ailments remaining the leading cause of death among Malaysians, SMC feels compelled to participate in the campaign, emphasising the importance of accessibility to early screenings,” SMC said in a statement. The three-month campaign, which began on Aug 1, will conclude on Oct 31. – Bernama

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Authorities need to accord more attention to ports and airports, while logistics firms should assist to report shipping of animal parts: NGO

exotic and wildlife species in the global market. “Pet ownership has increased in recent years, and the trend of owning exotic and wild animals is also rising. “The advances in animal husbandry and propagation technologies have enabled wealthy individuals to exploit illegal markets, allowing them to easily move, breed, access and trade in wildlife online.” Tengku Rinalfi said human psychology plays a significant role, as many people seek the personal satisfaction of owning and displaying unique animals. He said as it becomes more normal, there will be an increased risk of spreading zoonotic diseases, propagating invasive species and physically harming humans and animals. “Public awareness on the importance of wildlife protection laws remains very low as many people are either unaware of the existence of laws or do not fully understand their significance. “Effective awareness campaigns are crucial to educate the public on the consequences of wildlife crime for biodiversity and human health, and to encourage responsible behaviour that supports conservation efforts.”

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia continues to suffer from deplorable enforcement despite more than 1,000 wildlife parts, including 397 bear paws from several endangered species, being seized at a house near the Taman Negara in Pahang last November. Elizabeth John, the communications manager for Traffic, an NGO whose mission is to ensure that the trade in wild species is legal and sustainable for the sake of the planet and people, is outraged. She said while a stronger Wildlife Conservation Act was approved in 2022, with higher penalties of up to RM1 million and a maximum jail term of 15 years for offences involving trafficking, the challenge lies in enforcing it. “Although a series of revisions to strengthen the Act was approved, including offences such as keeping, hunting and smuggling wildlife, not all the revisions are currently in effect.” Elizabeth said the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry reported that a total of 490 offenders were arrested by wildlife authorities in ramped-up Road Transport Dept upgrades MyJPJ app KAJANG: The Road Transport Department (RTD) is upgrading the MyJPJ app following implementation of the special Malaysian driving licence transition programme, which allows transitions from Class B2/B1 to Class B (high-powered motorcycles) and has seen high demand for online eligibility checks. RTD director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the upgrade is being carried out to ensure maximum accessibility for Malaysians eligible to apply at selected driving institutes nationwide starting yesterday. He added that holders of Class B2/B1 licences can also check their eligibility through the public mySIKAP portal at public.jpj.gov.my or at RTD counters. – Bernama

ports, airports and the logistics industry, which should take a more proactive role in combating wildlife crime through their facilities and services. There were 654 cases involving the illegal online sale of exotic wildlife between 2020 and 2023 through various social media platforms, as reported by the Wildlife and National Parks Department. She said courier companies should adopt policies and improve their processes to enhance the detection of wildlife trafficking in packages. “More innovative efforts by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission in collaboration with consumer groups should be considered to combat illegal online trade and address the use of packages for wildlife trafficking.” Universiti Putra Malaysia Wildlife Management senior lecturer Dr Tengku Rinalfi Putra Tengku Azizan said there is always demand for

enforcement operations from 2019 to April this year. However, based on Traffic’s data, there have been at least 28 known seizure incidents involving wild animals within a 30km radius of Taman Negara in the past five years. This resulted in the confiscation of 499 animal parts, with pangolins, leopards and bears being the top three most seized species. Elizabeth said Malaysia is one of the most mega-diverse countries in the world, with more than 15,000 species of vascular plants and 152,000 species of animal life. However, the rich biodiversity has turned the nation into a hotbed for poaching, wildlife trafficking and a hub for international trade. “Everything from pangolins and bears to our tigers, sambar deers and birds are being hunted, and Malaysia is a popular supply market.” She said the specific areas needing more attention and resources include

MOBILE EFFICIENCY ... National Registration Department staff providing services directly to the public via its counters on-wheels contained in a specially refurbished van at Universiti Malaya Medical Center. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

IRB committed to maintaining fair taxation system KUALA LUMPUR: The Inland Revenue Board (IRB) is committed to ensuring that taxpayer rights are defended and protected throughout all dealings, aiming to maintain an effective, fair and equitable taxation system in the country. IRB Klang Valley legal branch public relations officer Nur Syazwani Hamzah said taxpayers’ right to access taxation information is frequently communicated through various “Additionally, IRB sends letters or notices to the taxpayer’s latest address regarding their taxation status. This is why it is essential for taxpayers to keep their contact information up-to-date with the IRB, either online through the e-Update function on the MyTax Portal or in writing,” she said. action by IRB. She said this year, IRB will focus on categorising and understanding taxpayer behaviour as part of its effort to reshape public perception of taxation and the IRB itself. She emphasised that alongside enforcing existing tax laws, IRB also plays a key role in educating the public about their responsibilities as voluntary taxpayers.

foster a culture of compliance. “The categories of taxpayers include those with excellent records in tax reporting and payment, those at risk of tax evasion and individuals generating income online,” she said during an appearance on the Klinik Cukai programme produced by Bernama Radio. “There are also cases involving taxpayers or companies operating in the shadow economy, as well as those with cross-border transactions.” – Bernama

Nur Syazwani added that the public can also check their current tax status and any travel restrictions through the MyTax Portal before traveling abroad to ensure their tax affairs are in order. This helps taxpayers avoid potential legal

However, she noted that some among the public still perceive IRB as a feared entity, which can hinder efforts to

platforms, including announcements and updates on the IRB official website, www.hasil.gov.my.

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‘Five Likas fire victims are siblings from two families’ KOTA KINABALU: The five victims burnt to death in a three-house fire in Jalan Lembaga Padi, Lorong Burung Keleto, Likas here on Monday afternoon were siblings from two families. Raisa Adrian (four years old), three-year-old Raidah and one-year old Raina. The other victims were Amidah Wahid, 14, and her sister Siti Faridah, three. Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Likas here for further treatment. Najib’s counsel queried over former PM’s spending Lintas fire and rescue station chief Agustavia Joe Guasi said the victims were identified as sisters Agustavia added that the mother of the three girls, who is pregnant, was unhurt in the fire and was sent to the Meanwhile, Kota Kinabalu district police chief ACP Kasim Muda said the police and other related agencies are investigating the fire and the deaths, which have been classified as sudden deaths. E-hailing driver Johanis Majan, 47, who lives in the vicinity, said he heard people screaming and was shocked when he saw fire raging in the area. “People said there were children in the house, so I, with the help of others, tried to look for a way to enter (the house. It was hard because the smoke was so thick that we couldn’t see anything,” he said yesterday.

Housewife Aini Mariati Jafar, 39, said she and her husband tried to help but could not breathe due to the thick smoke. “It’s very sad because we usually see the girls when we passed by the houses,” she added. Firefighters managed to put out the blaze by 1.29pm. – Bernama Floods force three families to evacuate SIK: Three families in Kampung Charuk Tenang here endured a harrowing experience when floodwaters surged into their homes on Monday night, reaching up to their waist, and trapping them indoors. Sik district Civil Defence Officer Lt Haisul Aishah Mohd Napiah said the flash floods that occurred at about 10pm were likely triggered by four hours of heavy rain in the upper Sik region. “The Civil Defence Force Operations Control Centre in Sik received an emergency call from one of the family members requesting immediate help to evacuate them as they were trapped inside by the rising waters. “Due to persistent rain until about 3am, all affected families from the three houses were safely relocated to a secure area.” She said several other villages, including Kampung Bendang Man, Chepir in Jerai at upstream Sungai Chepir, and Lubuk Tualang in upper Sungai Charuk Tebal, also reported flash floods, “Some families have sought temporary shelter at the Kampung Lalang surau while three families moved to the Kampung Tanjung Balai Islam. The evacuees were able to return home yesterday morning after the floodwaters receded. Evacuee Nong Nart Bua Fon, 40, said this was her first time experiencing such an ordeal in almost 20 years of staying in the area. “The water rose so quickly and reached waist-high. “I was at home with my two sons, aged 11 and seven, while my husband and eldest son were attending a funeral elsewhere.” She also said two neighbouring houses were also flooded and the families sought shelter with nearby relatives. – Bernama Contraband, petrol seized in Perak IPOH: Perak Customs seized contraband cigarettes, liquor and petrol estimated at RM639,579 in three separate raids in the state. Its director Datuk Abdul Ghafar Mohamad said his raiding party confiscated 387,788 cigarettes and 2,273.53 litres of liquor with an estimated value including tax totalling RM410,008 from operations carried out throughout August and September around the state. “A total of 13 men and one woman were arrested during one of the raids,” he said in a statement on Monday, adding that the undutied cigarettes and liquor were to be sold at business premises. Abdul Ghafar his department also arrested a woman who tried to smuggle petrol worth RM210 at the Immigration, Customs and Quarantine Complex in Bukit Berapit, Pengkalan Hulu on Sept 18. She planned to bring the petrol into a neighbouring country with a modified tank in her vehicle, he added. In a separate case, Abdul Ghafar said they arrested two men and seized 3.3kg of drugs worth RM13,331 at two post offices in Ipoh believed to be used as distribution points to customers. – Bernama

o 99% of money in his account was not for personal purpose, used RM300m from 1MDB for 2013 GE: Shafee

comment on the matter and deputy public prosecutor (DPP) Kamal Bahrin Omar replied they are only concerned with the fact that the alleged funds, which entered Najib’s accounts, came from illegal proceeds. Fellow DPP Ahmad Akram Gharib added that it did not matter whether Najib used the purported funds for personal or political reasons, Bernama reported. “The law says that it is for his advantage.” Najib, 71, faces four charges of abusing his position to obtain RM2.3 billion from 1MDB funds at the AmIslamic Bank Berhad branch on Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Ceylon, between Feb 24, 2011 and Dec 19, 2014. He also faces 21 charges of money laundering involving the same amount at the same bank between March 22, 2013 and Aug 30, 2013. Najib is charged under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and Section 4(1)(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Financing Act. The submission continues.

KUALA LUMPUR : The trial judge in Datuk Seri Abdul Najib Razak’s 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) case yesterday questioned the defence team about the distinction between the former prime minister’s personal expenses and those for political purposes. Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah posed the question to Najib’s lead counsel Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah during his submission at the close of the prosecution’s case at the High Court here. Sequerah: (Is there) any difference between spending for political and personal usage? Muhammad Shafee: We have proved that 99% of the money in his account was not used for his personal purpose.

“For instance, he didn’t buy a private plane or treat everybody with champagne in a New York bar, or something like that. “My Lord, I have to use this word; it is against the pathology of corruption, that a person took this money and spent it not for personal use, but for the benefit of the public,” he contended, adding that Najib had used RM300 million from 1MDB for the 2013 general election (GE). Sequerah then questioned the veteran counsel if there were any case law to back his argument. In response, Muhammad Shafee said “it is an inference of facts” and that there is no case quite like Najib’s 1MDB case, setting it apart from any precedent. The judge asked for the prosecution’s

A search party looking for the body of Sabari in Sungai Padang Terap. – BERNAMAPIC

Missing retiree’s case resolved with arrest of two men: Police ALOR SETAR: Police believe they have unravelled the mystery of the disappearance of Sabari Baharom, a 62-year-old retired Felcra officer who went missing in Baling on Sept 4, following the arrest of two local men on Monday. in Jitra, with his hands bound and mouth covered in adhesive tape. “The missing person case has been resolved, but the investigation is ongoing under Section 302 of the Penal Code. The victim’s body has yet to be found, and efforts to locate him by police and other agencies are ongoing.

urged not to speculate about the incident,” he said in a statement yesterday. Earlier media reports indicated that Sabari went missing after leaving his home in Kampung Mengkuang Tengah, Baling, driving a Proton Waja. Several cash withdrawals from Sabari’s bank account were detected, which were done by an individual identified through CCTV footage. – Bernama

Kedah police chief Datuk Fisol Salleh said the two suspects, aged 26 and 38, admitted to throwing the victim into Sungai Padang Terap

“We have informed the victim’s family about the progress of the investigation. All parties are

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Sand mining threat to Perak terrapins o Groups call for action as wild population of species already extinct in Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore

Malaysian biker awed by Nazca Lines KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian motorcyclist Katiravan Subarayan, who is currently on a solo motorcycle expedition across South America, continued his epic journey this week, exploring some of Peru’s famous historical and cultural sites, including the world-renowned Nazca Lines and the capital city of Lima. The 63-year-old retired electrician from Malacca began his ride in January last year on a 1200cc BMW R GSA, affectionately named “Parameswara”, to advocate environmental awareness and national pride. His adventures have taken him to several South and Central American countries, including Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia and Brazil. “On Sept 21, I took a 35-minute flight to the Nazca Lines for 463 soles (RM520), including airport taxes. The Nazca Lines is one of the popular attractions in Peru, with some saying the lines were drawn by aliens,”he said. The Nazca Lines, a series of large ancient geoglyphs located in the Nazca Desert in southern Peru, are believed to have been created by the Nazca civilisation between 500BCE and 500CE. Covering nearly 1,000sq km and featuring over 70 animal and plant designs, the Nazca Lines were first discovered in the 1920s by commercial flight pilots and were designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1994 for their cultural significance. After two days in Nazca, Katiravan travelled 220km to Paracas, where he viewed the Nazca Lines from a nearby observation tower for just two soles (RM2.20), before staying at a local hostel near the beach. On this trip, he met the new Malaysian ambassador to Peru, Ahmad Irham, who had just been appointed two days earlier. “We planted a tree at the embassy, after which the Second Secretary Mohd Syaifulludin Mahamad Ayub took me to his house, where his wife Amirah prepared a delightful spread that included “Ayam Asam Pedas”, fried fish, eggs, vegetables, fruit and rice. “Having loved Malay cuisine since childhood, I found the food delicious,”he said. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: A small head peeks out, its accusatory, beady eyes staring down its pert snout at the interlopers. It does not retract into its shell, nor does it flail about. Instead, the baby terrapin lies flat in the palm of the local environmentalist holding it, barely moving. “It’s kind of cute,” said Meor Razak Meor Abd Rahman, a field officer for Sahabat Alam Malaysia. Moments later, the Southern river terrapin, colloquially named “tuntung sungai” (batagur affinis), flips out of his hand and splashes into a terrapin pool. Apparently, terrapins dislike humans or loud noises. These freshwater animals are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. “Sand mining has wiped out the sandbars and sandy banks along the Perak River. That’s what concerns us. Where will the terrapins land to lay their eggs?” said Meor Razak. Terrapins are already extinct in the wild in Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. Experts caution that Perak may soon follow if more efforts are not made to protect them. News reports from 2019 indicated that there had been no sightings of wild terrapins in Perak for several years. Compounding the issue, terrapins are far less fertile than their sea turtle cousins. While sea turtles lay an average of 110 eggs two to eight times per season, terrapins only lay about 25 to 30 eggs per season. The method used in river sand mining is to place an excavator at the water’s edge to scoop sand from the river. The mounds of sand created on the riverbanks and the loss of vegetation discourage terrapins from nesting. The mining activities also increase water turbidity and remove vital organisms from the riverbed, harming the overall health of the river ecosystem. The United Nations Environment Programme said sand is the most mined material in the world, with about 50 billion metric tonnes extracted annually. The global sand mining industry is valued at US$151 billion (RM620 billion). A 2022 UN report found that sand mining is increasing globally at a rate of 6%, while describing the figure as “unsustainable”. Additionally, many sand mining projects worldwide are illegal. In Perak, most river sand mining activities are licensed, but environmentalists have criticised the Perak government for approving too many projects in the past, a claim the government denies. Perak Science, Environment and Green Technology committee chairman Teh Kok Lim said all approved sand mining projects in Perak have met requirements set by the Environment Department and other

Compared with sea turtles that lay an average of 110 eggs two to eight times per season, terrapins only lay about 25 to 30 eggs per season. – BERNAMAPIC

work is done. This is continuous removal of sand,” said the former Universiti Teknologi Malaysia professor. Friends of Nature Activist Association supreme council chair Hafizudin Nasarudin and Meor both agree it is best to enforce current laws and regulations that pertain to terrapin habitat, such as buffer zones. Hafizudin said while conservation efforts were laudable, they should not be the only solution. “A hatchery is pointless if the sandy banks the terrapins need to nest are disappearing. “The ultimate solution is to restore the riverbank. In the long term, the depth (of the river) will naturally increase.”

regulatory bodies. “Many sand mining projects are initiated to deepen the river for flood mitigation. When the project is approved, an environmental impact assessment report is required. “For most projects, the report is mandatory. Even small-scale mining requires it,” Teh said, emphasising that the approval process must be carried out carefully. Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia former president Prof Maketab Mohamed, who is also a water quality expert, dismissed the justification. “To me, the flood-mitigation argument is just an excuse. If you want to dredge a river, you do it at certain times and stop once the

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Malaysian Paper

WEDNESDAY | OCT 2, 2024

7 Award-winning Cambodian journalist arrested

New Japan PM unveils Cabinet TOKYO: Japan’s new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba yesterday unveiled his Cabinet as he seeks to heal party divisions and secure a national mandate with an Oct 27 snap election. The 67-year-old former defence minister, who last week won a close fought contest to lead the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), was confirmed earlier in the day as prime minister by parliament. The veteran lawmaker has named a mixture of rivals and allies to Cabinet posts. It includes two leadership rivals in key positions, Katsunobu Kato as finance minister and Yoshimasa Hayashi to stay on as chief Cabinet secretary, the government announced. Kato’s appointment to the finance ministry will be closely watched given he served in key positions in former premier Shinzo Abe’s administration, which pursued expansionary fiscal and monetary policies. An Ishiba ally, Takeshi Iwaya, a former defence chief, will take over as foreign minister, while Gen Nakatani will return to the Defence Ministry, a position he held in 2016. Yoji Muto, a former junior minister, will take charge at the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry. Five of the lawmakers who contested the leadership race with him have not been included in his government nor given key party jobs. Among them is Takaichi, a hardline conservative he beat by 215 votes to 194 on Friday in the closest leadership election in almost seven decades. Media reported she had declined a senior party post. That could make it difficult for Ishiba, a perennial favourite in public opinion polls, to manage a fractious ruling group roiled by scandals. – Reuters BOAT ATTACKED NEAR CONTESTED ISLANDS HANOI: At least 10 Vietnamese fishermen were injured after their boat was attacked by a foreign vessel while fishing near the Paracel islands claimed by both China and Vietnam. The attack took place on Sunday, reported Thanh Nien newspaper, citing authorities in the central province of Quang Ngai. The report did not provide a description of the foreign vessel or how the fishing vessel was attacked. Three of the fishermen had their legs and arms broken, the report said, citing Nguyen Thanh Bien, the captain of the fishing boat QNg 957.39 TS . Vietnamese and Chinese foreign ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Vietnamese authorities are investigating the incident. – Reuters INDONESIA TO SET UP ANTI-HOAX TASKFORCE JAKARTA: Indonesia is setting up an anti-hoax taskforce to combat fake online news and misinformation during regional elections next month. The taskforce will collaborate with digital platforms. “We are providing opportunities for these platforms to take part in preventing the spread of false information,” said Prabu Revolusi, director-general of public information and communication at the Communication and Informatics Ministry. Although the ministry has not recorded any increase in false information, it aims to maintain a conducive situation leading up to the elections on Nov 27. – Bernama

BR I E F S

PHNOM PENH: An award-winning Cambodian journalist known for his reporting on human trafficking in the cyber scam industry has been arrested, police said yesterday. Mech Dara was last year presented with a Hero Award, which recognises efforts against human trafficking, by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for his investigations into exploitation at online scam compounds in Cambodia. Authorities made the arrest on Monday after stopping a car carrying Dara and his family from o Detainee’s location kept under wraps

farms” – criminal operations that defraud victims online for vast sums of cash and fuel human trafficking across the region. Cambodia places near the bottom of international press freedom rankings, and rights groups have long accused the government of using legal cases as a tool to silence dissenting voices. Independent newspaper The Cambodia Daily closed in 2017 over a tax dispute, while scores of other outlets closed the following year ahead of elections. The United States last month imposed sanctions against an adviser to former prime minister Hun Sen for alleged abuses related to cyber scam trafficking, a decision Cambodia slammed as politically motivated. – AFP

taken or the reason for his arrest,” said LICADHO operations director Am Sam Ath. A day before his arrest, Dara had posted an image on his social media platforms that purportedly showed a tourist site demolished to make way for a quarry, according to CamboJA. Local authorities labelled the now-deleted images “fake news” and called for Dara to face punishment for their publication. Dara previously worked for independent media outlet Voice of Democracy before Cambodian authorities shut it down in February last year. He has since used his social media platforms to share news content, particularly around the proliferation of notorious “scam

Sihanoukville – a coastal city where many suspected scam operations take place – to Phnom Penh, the Cambodian Journalists Alliance Association (CamboJA) said in a statement. Military police spokesman Eng Hy confirmed the arrest but refused to say where Dara was being held or which court he would be sent to. “We executed the warrant from a prosecutor. As for the charges, we cannot say now. We have to wait for the investigation first,” he said. Dara, whose work has appeared in various international news outlets, sent a message about his arrest to LICADHO, a human rights NGO, just before his phone was seized by military police. “We knew that he was arrested but we don’t know where he was

VITAL VOTE ... An Indian soldier stands guard as voters queue up to cast their ballots at a polling station in Bandipora during the third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections yesterday. – AFPPIC

Thai court approves extradition of hill tribe activist BANGKOK: A Thai court approved on Monday the extradition of a leading hill tribe activist to Vietnam, where he faces 10 years in jail over attacks on police posts. said the Vietnamese charges were similar to what constitutes “terrorism” in Thailand, so Bdap could be extradited. has urged Thailand to refuse the extradition request. activists. It accuses them of engaging in“barbaric and inhumane acts” and inciting anti-government activities from abroad.

UN-affiliated experts warned in July that Bdap would be at risk of “torture or other ill-treatment or punishment”if sent back to Vietnam. Police blamed the attacks on Montagnards Stand for Justice (MSFJ), a group pushing for freedom of religion for Vietnam’s hill tribes and ethnic minority groups that has been branded as “terrorist” by the authorities. Vietnamese police say Bdap is the founder of MSFJ and accuse him of directing people to carry out the attacks. Vietnam has issued international arrest warrants for Bdap and other

The courts sentenced almost 100 people in January in relation to the 2023 attacks in Dak Lak province, accusing them of seeking to “overthrow the state”. All were from ethnic minority groups. Montagnards, the collective name for various tribes in the area, sided with the US-backed south during Vietnam’s decades-long war. Some are also calling for more autonomy, while others abroad advocate independence for the region. – AFP

His lawyer Nadthasiri Bergman said they would appeal against the decision. She said: “It is disappointing, it is unacceptable. Our arguments have not been considered. I just hope that the government will sign an executive order not to extradite him.” The decision still needs to be approved by the government because Thailand has no extradition agreement with Vietnam. Bdap has been granted refugee status by the United Nations, which

Judges in Bangkok ruled that Y Quynh Bdap, who has lived in exile in Thailand since 2018, could be sent back to his home country, where a court convicted him in his absence in January of terrorism offences. Bdap was accused of remotely orchestrating attacks in June 2023, in which gunmen on motorbikes opened fire on two police posts in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, killing nine people in a rare act of violence against the communist authorities. A judge at the Bangkok court