10/10/2024

Three syndicates dismantled with arrest of 11 individuals, including mastermind, after raids conducted in Kepong and Muar. Police seize drugs worth more than RM24 million

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Report on — page 3 Academic says balanced approach combining regulation with efforts to increase overall housing supply would likely be effective to stabilise market and control rising cost of leasing properties. ‘Curb rent inflation’

Rising rental rates are also driven by high demand for fewer properties caused by homebuyers delaying purchases due to higher interest rates and economic uncertainty. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Malaysia’s vision as chair of Asean Prime minister outlines three strategies for bloc – bolstering regional value chains, strengthening fundamentals, and reinventing, restructuring and recalibrating economies of member states.

Key expectations include increase in Skills Development Fund Corporation allocation, and more govt-supervised early childhood education centres. Youth’s Budget 2025 wish list

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Call for peaceful resolution to Middle-East conflict KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and Kuwait have agreed that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, particularly in Palestine and southern Lebanon, should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and in adherence to the resolutions set by the United Nations. The Defence Ministry said in a statement that the agreement was reached during a meeting between Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikh Dr Muhammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah on Monday. It said Mohamed Khaled and his delegation were granted an audience with Sheikh Dr Muhammad Sabah at the Bayan Palace in Kuwait. “This bilateral cooperation is important in supporting the Third Defence Strategy Pillar of ‘Credible Partnerships’as outlined in the Defence White Paper, which emphasises the importance of international relations in ensuring national security, regional sovereignty and global peace.” Earlier, Mohamed Khaled, who is on an official working visit to Kuwait, paid a courtesy call on Sheikh Fahad Yousef, who is Kuwait defence minister and interior minister, at the Kuwait Defence Ministry. “This meeting was highly significant and impactful for both defence ministers, as they discussed efforts to enhance bilateral defence cooperation in various areas, including military cooperation, information exchange, defence science, technology and industry. “The two countries are now in the final stages of negotiating an‘MoU on Defence Cooperation’, which is expected to be finalised and signed in Kuala Lumpur by 2025.” Mohamed Khaled also expressed interest in initiating discussions on identifying methods for the acquisition of F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets owned by the Kuwait Air Force for use by the Royal Malaysian Air Force, as part of efforts to enhance Malaysia’s air defence capabilities, benefiting both nations. – Bernama Nurturing synergy for national unity KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts to strengthen national unity require the synergy of various parties, including the people, through participation in various programmes implemented through the National Unity Ministry, said its secretary-general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad. He said this synergy could be nurtured through various activities held throughout the year, including Semarak Kenegaraan , Semarak Perpaduan , Kembara Perpaduan as well as programmes under Rukun Tetangga . He said to date, more than 15 million Malaysians have taken part in the programmes. “These programmes are the platforms for the people of various cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds to interact and get to know one another and accept their similarities and differences,” he said on Bernama TV’s Ruang Bicara programme on Tuesday. – Bernama curbed, among other successes.” The World Bank Group announced on Wednesday that it had raised Malaysia’s economic growth forecast to 4.9% for 2024, up from the 4.3% projected earlier in April. According to the report, business investment in Malaysia will remain strong, driven by ongoing projects and new investments in the manufacturing and services sectors. The government will focus its spending on improving infrastructure in areas such as transportation, healthcare and education. – Bernama

Malaysia outlines several strategies for Asean o Bloc needs to redraw and secure regional supply chain and linkages to global economy, says Anwar (From left) Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Laos President Thongloun Sisoulith, Siphandone, Anwar and Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah posing for photos at the summit in Vientiane yesterday. – AFPPIC

economically resilient bloc, putting it on track to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030. “Malaysia looks forward to the recommendations from our senior officials on measures to facilitate Timor-Leste’s early full membership into Asean.” Timor-Leste was granted official observer status and received in-principle approval to become a member of Asean during the 40th and 41st Asean Summits in Cambodia in 2022. The 44th and 45th Asean Summits and related summits officially opened in the Laos capital yesterday and will end tomorrow, Bernama reported. Anwar, who arrived here on Tuesday night, will also attend the Plus One Summits between Asean and seven dialogue partners, namely Australia, China, Japan, India, South Korea, United States and Canada, as well as the Asean Plus Three Summit, East Asia Summit and Asean-United Nations Summit. Other Asean leaders and dialogue partners, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken, are also expected to attend the summits. The summits will conclude tomorrow, with Laos handing over the Asean chairmanship to Malaysia during the closing ceremony. monthly assembly yesterday. He said approved investments surged to RM160 billion in the first half of this year, marking an 18% increase compared with the same period in 2023, while trade value rose by 18.6% in August, the highest growth in 22 months. He added that inflation rate decreased to 1.9% and unemployment rate stabilised at 3.3%, with 190,000 job opportunities created in the second quarter of the year. “Bursa Malaysia has seen gains, trading values have soared, Bank Negara Malaysia reserves have increased and diesel smuggling has been

VIENTIANE: Malaysia has outlined three strategies for Asean when it takes over the grouping’s chairmanship in 2025, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said these include bolstering regional value chains and regulatory cooperation, strengthening member countries’ fundamentals, and reinventing, restructuring and recalibrating their economies while leveraging one another’s strengths. Addressing the 44th Asean Summit Plenary Session yesterday, he said this is crucial to expand trade and investment linkages as well as to foster digital transformation in the region. “(Asean) needs to redraw and secure the regional supply chain and its linkages to the global economy. “I believe that if we pursue this course with determination and commitment, Asean can achieve economic resilience and be on track to become the fourth largest economy by 2030.” Anwar was the second leader to speak after Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at

the plenary session. All the leaders from Asean’s 10 member countries attended the session held at the National Convention Centre here. He said intra-Asean trade has remained low for the past few decades despite the phenomenal economic growth experienced in Southeast Asia. “I believe there is vast potential for enhancement in this regard, particularly so with the upgrading of the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement to be signed in 2025.” He also said it is imperative for Asean to explore and broaden the grouping’s economic partnerships beyond the region’s borders. “Malaysia’s proposal for the Asean Gulf Cooperation Council and China Summit in 2025 is aimed at achieving exactly this. I would like to thank Asean member states for supporting this proposal.” Commenting on Timor-Leste’s impending inclusion into the grouping, Anwar said the move would expand the region’s economy and contribute to making Asean a more

Country on track to achieve high-income nation status, says DPM KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is on track to achieve the status of a developed and high-income country, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. “This success is driven by effective government policies, strengthened investment and trade, and the political stability we have fostered.”

He pointed out the encouraging performance of the ringgit, which appreciated by 2.5% against the US dollar in July, significantly outperforming the Singapore dollar, Thai baht and Indonesian rupiah, which had recorded average increases of only 1%. Ahmad Zahid, who is also rural and regional development minister, was speaking during the Rural and Regional Development Ministry

His remarks followed the World Bank revision of Malaysia’s economic growth forecast for this year, reflecting stronger-than-expected household consumption, improved investment and trade performance. “After nearly two years since the establishment of the unity government, we have witnessed substantial progress, particularly in economic growth.

THURSDAY | OCT 10, 2024

3 ‘Govt intervention needed to control rising rental rates’

Ministry set up to advance quality services KUALA LUMPUR: The Energy Transition and Water Transformation Ministry led by Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof was established in December 2023 to advance the government’s commitment to delivering top-quality services through the empowerment of water and energy supply. Formerly known as the Energy Transition and Public Utilities Ministry, the rebranding underscores its responsibility in managing and regulating the energy transition and water transformation agenda, which is guided by the key pillars of security, safety, sustainability and the well-being of the people. “The creation of the ministry to coordinate the energy and water sectors shows the government’s initiative to emphasise the importance of preserving the two sectors,” the ministry said in a statement. “The ministry guarantees a continuous and consistent energy and water supply, ensuring the quality of clean water and efficient and safe energy use. The ministry is committed to empowering the management and regulation of sustainable and exclusive energy and water supply, and improving public well-being with reliable access to energy supply and clean water supply.” In the energy sector, the ministry supports government efforts to achieve a zero-carbon policy by 2050 while ensuring the safety of the public. To ensure the four Madani pillars are integrated into the energy sector, the ministry has introduced several key initiatives, namely Solar@Petra, the Renewable Energy Roadmap, the Malaysian Electricity Supply Industry Reform, the National Energy Transition Roadmap, the National Energy Policy and the Imbalance Cost Pass-Through. The water sector encompasses management, supply services and a holistic, sustainable sewer system to ensure the availability and reliability of water for public well-being and the ecosystem. To ensure the security and sustainability of the water sector, several initiatives have been implemented, including the Water Mitigation Programme, the National Flood Forecast and Warning Programme, National River Trail Programme, National Non-Revenue Water Programme, Riverside Water Catchment Project, reclaimed water production, comprehensive tariff adjustments and the Indah Water Konsortium sewerage charge rebate. The 10 departments and agencies include the Energy Commission, which controls and implements energy policy, the National Water Services Commission, which controls water supply services, Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd, which is responsible for managing sewerage services, and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, which manages river basins and drainage systems. – Bernama

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Talks held with China to boost twin city cooperation KUALA LUMPUR: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said she has held discussions with Mayor of Hangzhou (China) Yao Gaoyuan to strengthen twin cities cooperation between Kuala Lumpur and Hangzhou. Zaliha, who is on a six-day official visit to China that started on Monday, said the discussion was an extension of the KL20 Summit initiative in April, in which the two cities signed a letter of intent to collaborate on KL20 projects focused on smart city technology and innovation. “I emphasised Kuala Lumpur’s willingness to establish strategic cooperation that could bring mutual benefits. I have extended an invitation to Yao to visit Kuala Lumpur to further strengthen the bond between our dynamic cities.” She said she also told Yao about Kuala Lumpur’s interest in strengthening economic ties and exploring potential investment opportunities with Hangzhou for mutual benefit. “Hopefully, this will give us the opportunity to share best practices in urban development and innovation.“ She also shared good news delivered by Yao on the achievement of Hangzhou being chosen as the “Friendliest City” by the Chinese government. – Bernama “I think we cannot apply the same rental rules to everyone since property owners invest differently in their homes, such as renovations and maintenance. Still, the government needs to do something.” are also utility bills to consider.” She said the increase in rental costs has tightened their budgets, leading them to reduce spending on other activities. She also said the main challenge in finding affordable housing in her area is the lack of options as everything that is nice seems to be out of reach or has numerous restrictions attached while cheaper ones are too far or in poor condition. “The current rental prices are unjustified considering the value you get in return. It is not like we are in a high-class area or getting loads of perks with our rental. “Only three bedrooms can be accessed because the master bedroom is locked, denying us use of the whole house. Yet, we still need to pay the full rent.” She said there should be regulations to control rental prices in high-demand areas and address discriminatory practices that limit housing options based on race.

o Balanced approach of regulation and increasing housing supply would work: Expert

PETALING Government intervention is critical to control the rising cost of renting properties and stabilise the market, so policies should encompass rent control, affordable housing development subsidies or tax incentives for landlords who offer fair rent, said Universiti Teknologi Malaysia property economics and finance Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Najib Razali. He was commenting on property rental prices, which have risen on average by 3.9% in the second quarter of 2024, according to an IQI Malaysia Home Rental Index report. “However, rent control policies could have unintended consequences, such as reducing incentives for landlords to maintain properties and discouraging new property investments. “A balanced approach that combines regulation with efforts to increase the overall housing supply would likely be more effective.” He said rising rental prices are being driven by demand for rental JAYA:

areas, upward trend supported by increasing urbanisation, supply constraints and the rising cost of living. “It could stabilise if more supply enters the market, such as new rental units or affordable housing developments. Economic recovery and government policies aimed at cooling the property market may also provide some relief. “In Malaysia, any increase in house price and rental would have a significant impact on the lower-income group.” English literature teacher Alya Nadirah Mohd Hamdan, 34, expressed concern over rising rental costs, which have made it harder for many to find affordable housing. “The rent keeps going up but government salaries do not keep pace with rental rates. My three colleagues and I have been sharing a four-bedroom house in Bandar Seri Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan for about a year. We split the RM1,600 monthly rent among us but there with the

properties, which is prompted by affordability issues in the home-buying market. He also said many potential homebuyers are delaying purchases due to higher interest rates and economic uncertainty, leading to competition for rented properties. “Inflationary pressures, rising maintenance and construction costs have forced landlords to adjust rental rates upwards. The influx of foreign workers has also increased demand in major urban centres.” He said the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru are experiencing the highest rental price growth as they are key economic hubs with more job opportunities, education centres and better infrastructure. “The growing popularity of short-term rentals on platforms such as Airbnb in these areas has further driven up long-term rental rates.” Muhammad Najib said in the short to medium term, rental prices are likely to continue rising, especially in high-demand urban

ECOFRIENDLY EVENT ... A visitor being briefed on solar energy at the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Almost RM40 billion allocated for Sabah infrastructure KOTA KINABALU: The government has allocated almost RM40 billion to implement public infrastructure projects in Sabah, which are currently in pre-construction and construction, including the Pan Borneo Highway Package 1A and Package 1B. RM26.6 billion is for the construction of the highway packages. Works Ministry, Finance Ministry and the Sabah Public Works Department.”

and ethical because the Madani government places great emphasis on good governance. On a separate matter, he said road users may download the MYJalan app to make complaints involving potholes on roads so that immediate action can be taken. “It is an app that was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last year and I hope it will be used here in Sabah.” – Bernama

Ahmad expressed hope that the delay in the construction of Package 1A would not be repeated in the implementation of Package 1B, with observance of guidelines on the objectives of public well-being, speed of action, reasonable cost, guaranteed quality and innovation. He said there must be a team that is reliable, wise, efficient, dedicated

He said there are 47 projects involving RM5.78 billion to build roads, bridges and buildings, 200 projects involving RM5.04 billion for infrastructure in villages and other regions, 200 projects involving RM1.71 billion for schools, and 41 projects involving RM0.43 billion for clinics and hospitals. “The projects are managed by the

Deputy Public Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said 488 projects, costing about RM13 billion, involve infrastructure projects under the Works Ministry while

THURSDAY | OCT 10, 2024

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Youths want more TVET, early childhood funding

Promoting BM in foreign universities

MALACCA: The Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) plans to expand its Bahasa Melayu language programmes at several universities abroad to promote and elevate the national language. DBP language and literature development department director Mohd Salahuddin Mohamed said universities in countries such as China, Thailand and Japan are part of this initiative. “So far, there are 15 universities in China with Malay studies faculties, eight in Thailand and several universities in Japan that offer Malay language courses,” he said. “It’s encouraging to see the growing presence of the Malay language abroad and it’s even more gratifying when we meet representatives from these countries who can speak Malay fluently.” Mohd Salahuddin said this at the inauguration ceremony and launch of the National Language Month at the Malacca state level, officiated by state senior exco for housing, local government, drainage, climate change and disaster management Datuk Rais Yasin. He further elaborated that in Japan, DBP sends books as reference materials for Malay language courses, while in China, the agency organises Malay speech competitions among universities. – Bernama RM1.2m allocated for environmental efforts BANGI: The Housing and Local Government Ministry has allocated RM1.21 million to local authorities to support the ministry’s environmental campaign this year, according to minister Nga Kor Ming. He said the funds were allocated for the implementation of seven campaigns, including Premis Makanan Bersih, Pasar Awam Bersih, and Tandas Awam PBT Bersih, Menawan dan Wangi . Other programmes include Kempen Membasmi Infestasi Tikus , Pengurusan Haiwan Terbiar, Cegah Wabak Denggi and Membasmi Hotspot Denggi. “The allocation is essential for local authorities, particularly for repairing and upgrading public facilities that are damaged or in poor condition, as well as for organising gotong-royong activities with the local community,” he said during his speech at the ministy-level World Environmental Health Day 2024 celebration on Tuesday. His speech was delivered by Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu. – Bernama Seven enforcement agencies to be merged PUTRAJAYA: The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry plans to merge seven enforcement agencies under its purview to strengthen regulation within the agro-food sector. The agencies involved in the merger include the Kawalselia Padi dan Beras regulatory body, Department of Quarantine and Inspection Services, Department of Agriculture, Veterinary Services Department, Fisheries Department, Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority and the Fisheries Development Authority. Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu announced that the reform proposal will be presented to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during a meeting scheduled for Nov 1. “The reform efforts undertaken by the ministry are not motivated by any political agenda. Instead, they focus on the betterment and future of the industry,” he said during a press conference following the ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday. – Bernama

o Young leaders seek greater support for education, digital entrepreneurship and scholarships in Budget 2025

the government will expand the scholarship assistance programme to cover all research fields for students in institutions of higher learning. “Scholarships should empower the country’s human capital and support the development of education by covering research fields,” he said. Luqman Hakim also recommended that the government provide an aid scheme to help young entrepreneurs enter the digital sector. “This is a key opportunity for the government to consider as the digital economy significantly contributes to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Supporting startups led by youths will increase the number of young entrepreneurs and boost the sector,” he said. On Oct 4, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo announced that the digital economy is projected to contribute up to 25.5% to GDP by the end of next year, Bernama reported. He highlighted that Malaysia is on track to meeting this target as digital investment rose to RM66.22 billion in the first half of this year, up from RM46.2 billion in 2023.

KUALA LUMPUR: An increase in the Skills Development Fund Corporation (SDFC) and a rise in the number of government supervised early childhood education centres are among the key expectations of youths for Budget 2025, which will be tabled in Parliament on Oct 18. Malaysian Youth Council president Mohd Izzat Afifi Abdul Hamid said the SDFC fund needs to be increased due to the growing number of students in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) and the rising costs of these programmes. “The government allocated RM180 million in this year’s budget. We hope that the amount will be increased according to current needs,” he said in a recent interview. He noted that the announcement by the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training Council on Sept 23 of a premium salary range of RM2,500 to RM4,000

for TVET graduates is expected to boost interest in the field for the next academic year. “During the recent Human Resources Ministry town hall, there was a demand to enter TVET and for skills college staff to be expanded. If the government agrees to increase funds for SDFC, I hope it also extends to the National Dual Training Scheme,” he said. Mohd Izzat Afifi also suggested that the government increase the number of early childhood education centres, such as kindergartens and preschools. “Young families continue to struggle with low wages, the high cost of living and expensive private kindergarten fees. More kindergartens and preschools are essential, as current facilities are insufficient to meet demand,” he said. Meanwhile, Prihatin Malaysia president Luqman Hakim Md Zim expressed hope that

WATER TRANSPORT ... A resident using a boat to navigate the floodwaters in Simpang Renggam, one of the districts hit by the latest deluge in Johor. – BERNAMAPIC

Cooperative Societies Act 1993 to be amended KUALA LUMPUR: The Co-operative Societies Act 1993 is set to be amended, involving 96 existing provisions, which will be restructured and improved, according to Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick. included in the Act will address the liberalisation of cooperative businesses and governance issues, including regulations on the registration of cooperatives. The draft amendment was developed based on recommendations from agencies under the ministry, following a survey.

cooperative movement and enhancing cooperation between the federal and state governments. Ewon also announced that the launch of the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives, organised by Angkatan Koperasi Kebangsaan Malaysia Berhad, will take place this December. “We hope that this year’s celebrations will feature numerous events, including National Cooperative Day in Malacca. “We also plan to host several conferences with Asean countries to explore how regional cooperation can be strengthened to develop cooperative communities, aligning with the Asean chairmanship led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said. Ewon added that there are currently 16,009 registered cooperatives in Malaysia, with 455 new cooperatives registered this year. – Bernama

He said the draft amendment is being prepared and will be presented to the Cabinet before being tabled in the Dewan Rakyat next year. “We expect to include up to 200 new amendments in the Act, focusing on basic matters that have already been agreed upon. These changes aim to strengthen regulatory elements and ensure that cooperative legislation remains relevant to the current economic environment,” he said during a press conference following the National Cooperative Consultative Council (NCCC) meeting on Tuesday. Ewon noted that the main provisions to be

“We will engage with cooperatives nationwide to gather their feedback on this proposal before taking it to Parliament for consideration,” he added. Earlier, Ewon chaired the NCCC meeting which was attended by Malaysian Cooperative Societies Commission chief executive officer Datuk Rusli Jaafar and heads of agencies under the ministry. The meeting featured the presentation of several papers, including the proposed amendments to the Act. The discussion focused on setting the direction for the development of the national

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THURSDAY | OCT 10, 2024

6 Trio held in alleged child abuse case

Three drug syndicates busted with arrest of 11

SEREMBAN: Police have arrested three men over an alleged child abuse case involving a six-year-old boy in Batu 4, Port Dickson. District police chief Supt Maslan Udin said a 67-year-old woman lodged a report on Oct 3 after finding the boy injured, crying and lying naked on the floor at a house here. The boy, who is an orphan, had been under the care of the complainant in Klang, Selangor, until 2021, when he was handed over to his adoptive father. Maslan said acting on information, police arrested the three men, aged 32 to 36, in Taman Desa Rusa, Port Dickson and Taman Dataran Segar Lukut, adding that a background check revealed all the suspects had criminal and drug-related records, with one testing positive for methamphetamine. “Interrogations revealed the boy was assaulted because he (misbehaved) and frequently urinated around the house,” he said. The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. – Bernama Man held over RM120,000 scam BALIK PULAU: Police have arrested a man who is believed to be a mule account holder for a syndicate in an online Bitcoin investment scam, in which an individual lost more than RM120,000. Southwest district police chief Supt Kamarul Rizal Jenal said the 36-year old was detained on Tuesday after the 44-year-old victim filed a police report. “The victim claimed the syndicate offered a Bitcoin investment scheme with 200% profit per year, but he did not get any returns. “The victim also claimed to have made several online transactions to different bank accounts, including one belonging to the suspect, between July 11 and Aug 10 involving a total amount of RM129,970,“ he said. He added that investigations are being carried out under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating. – Bernama Parking leeway for Ipoh motorists IPOH: Police here will not issue summonses for vehicles parked outside parking bays along Jalan Raja Ashman Shah (in front of the Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital) so long as there is no double parking disrupting two-way traffic. However, district police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad said a summons would be issued for vehicles parked in front of the bus stop and too close to the Jalan Raja Ashman Shah traffic lights. He said this includes vehicles double-parked along Jalan Raja Ashman Shah and also at the Jalan Raja Ashman Shah roundabout, adding that the decision was made after talks bewteen the Health, Human Resources, Indian Community Affairs and National Integration Committee and the hospital. – Bernama

Khaw said upon inspecting the ground floor of the house, they found 250 packets of herbal tea weighing a total of 256kg, suspected to contain methamphetamine. Also seized were 125 tubs of sponge cake emulsifier, with each sealed tub containing two packets of syabu worth RM66,000. The value of drugs seized is estimated at RM8.18 million and could be used for 1.2 million doses, Bernama reported. “Its modus operandi is to use the premises to store and repack drugs before distributing them to international and domestic markets,” Khaw said. He added that all suspects arrested in the second and third operations have been remanded for seven days until Oct 14 to assist in investigations under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952.

In the second operation on Monday, Khaw said they raided a building at the Kepong Industrial Park and nabbed a 32-year-old man suspected of acting as a storekeeper and transporter of a syndicate. Upon further inspection of a vehicle and the premises, police found 350 packets weighing a total of 358kg, suspected to contain methamphetamine worth an estimated RM11.4 million. “This syndicate has been active since early this year and its modus operandi is to use rented premises to store drugs before distributing them to the domestic market, especially in the Klang Valley.” Later the same day, police launched a third operation at a house in Bandar Menjalara, Kepong and arrested three Thai nationals – a man and two women aged between 22 and 24.

o RM24 million worth of assorted narcotics confiscated during raids in Kepong and Muar

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have busted three drug trafficking syndicates around the Klang Valley and Johor, and seized various types of drugs worth over RM24 million in three separate operations. Bukit Aman Narcotics Crime Investigation Department director Datuk Seri Khaw Kok Chin said in the first operation on Saturday, five raids were conducted at the Eco Sky Residence here and in Muar, Johor. During the raids, police arrested seven men, including the syndicate leader and two Thai women, aged between 34 and 48, and seized 111.96kg of syabu, 19.49kg of ketamine, 60 Erimin 5 pills, 138g of

heroin and four ecstasy pills worth a total of RM5 million. “This syndicate’s modus operandi is to use luxury condominiums, vehicles of deceased owners and vehicles without ownership transfer for storing drugs. The syndicate also used Chinese temples to carry out their activities. “This case is being investigated under Sections 39B and 39B(1) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 while all the suspects have been remanded for between three and seven days,” Khaw told a media conference at the Kuala Lumpur contingent police headquarters yesterday.

Khaw showing some of the seized drugs during a press conference at the Kuala Lumpur contingent police headquarters yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Marine police seize RM190m smuggled goods

TUMPAT: The Marine Police Force has recorded a total of 1,336 cases of smuggling of raw materials such as cooking oil, diesel and flour, with the value of seizures estimated at RM193.4 million from 2022 to September this year. Its Bukit Aman commander SAC Norzaid Muhammad Said said all the cases were investigated under the Control of Supplies Act 1961. He said last month, the force recorded the highest estimated value of seizures, at RM82.3 million, followed by RM71.7 million in 2022

aim for targeted subsidies to benefit only the intended groups. On the effectiveness of the collaboration between the force and the ministry from 2022 to September, he said 127 cases were recorded, with items seized valued at almost RM4 million. He added that in the latest operation from Oct 1 to 7, eight cases were recorded, with an overall seizure value of RM80,000, which included 1,675 litres of petrol, 850kg of cooking oil and eight vehicles. – Bernama

Living Ministry. Norzaid collaboration

and RM39.3 million in 2023. In addition, its Region 3 unit in Pengkalan Kubor recorded 506 cases during the same period, with the value of seizures estimated at nearly RM6 million. “The biggest seizure (by Region 3) was in 2022, with an estimated value of RM3.5 million, followed by RM1.03 million in 2023 and RM1.4 million as of September,” he told reporters on Tuesday after a meeting between the force and the enforcement division of the Domestic Trade and Cost of

said

inter-agency

was to ensuring effective implementation of action during operations and the prosecution process, especially under the Control of Supplies Act. He added that the aspects of enforcement and strategic collaboration in addressing the issue of leakage of controlled items, especially at the country’s borders and waters, need to be implemented as best as possible and in line with the government’s crucial

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Thailand floats new plan for Myanmar crisis

Kuan Yew’s daughter dies at 69 SINGAPORE: The estranged sister of former prime minister Lee Hsien Loong died yesterday at 69, after being diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy in 2020. The death of Lee Wei Ling, a doctor, was announced by their younger brother Lee Hsien Yang on Facebook. The siblings are the children of Singapore’s founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew and have been embroiled in a public dispute around what to do with their late father’s house after the elder Lee died in 2015. The former prime minister Lee, now a senior minister in the Cabinet, wrote on Facebook that despite the rift between him and his siblings, “I held nothing against Ling, and continued to do whatever I could to ensure her welfare.” He described his sister as a fighter who was “fiercely loyal to friends, sympathised instinctively with the underdog, and would mobilise actively to do something when she saw unfairness, or suspected wrongdoing”. The late doctor earned the prestigious President’s scholarship and topped her cohort in medical school. Lee never married and stayed with her parents until their deaths. She helped set up Singapore’s National Neuroscience Institute and served as its director for 11 years. She also regularly contributed columns to the national broadsheet The Straits Times . Lee said his sister had diagnosed herself before the doctors did. “She took it with her usual fortitude and stoicism, and posted about it as one of those things in life to be borne and endured. She knew what it meant, and made the most of the time she had even as her health declined,” he wrote. When announcing her illness, Wei Ling wrote: “My immediate reaction to the news was ‘ ren ’, or endure in Chinese, of which the traditional character has a knife above a heart. I have been practising ‘ ren ’ since I was in Chinese school, recognising that life has many unpleasant, unavoidable situations.” – Reuters Thousands watch last horse race in S’pore SINGAPORE: After a more than 180-year history, horse racing in Singapore has come to an end. The Singapore Turf Club held its final horse race in front of a 10,000-strong crowd on Saturday, before it hands back the 120ha racecourse to the government for redevelopment in 2027. The Turf Club is the land-scarce financial hub’s only racecourse. The crowd ranged from focused punters in shorts holding on to race booklets with a cigarette between their lips, to women decked out in hats and fascinators. Eager to witness the end of an era was retiree Lawrence Phua, 75. As a young boy, Phua used to help his brother sell horse racing guidebooks outside the turf club’s former location in Bukit Timah in central Singapore, also set to turn into housing. “I know nothing about gambling, but I am a bit emotional and quite sad that horse racing is no more after more than a hundred years,” he said. Phua said this was his first visit to the Kranji location of the Turf Club in northern Singapore, which opened in 1999 after S$500 million (RM1.6 billion) worth of construction. Horse racing in Singapore has a long history that dates back to its colonial past. The first race in 1843 was held to mark the 24th anniversary of Singapore coming under British colonial rule, according to the club. It later hosted Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II in 1972, seven years after Singapore gained independence, when 26,000 residents came to see the royal family. The land will be handed over to the government to meet housing, leisure and recreational demands as the population grows. Singapore is smaller than New York City and is home to six million people. – Reuters

o Asean low on options as peace process falters

faced many challenges and had its own ways to tackle them. “Laos deems that Asean’s past successes are due to our understanding of each other. We help each other, and cooperate with each other, with an Asean way and principles,” he said. Ahead of Blinken’s trip, the United States’ top diplomat for East Asia, Daniel Kritenbrink, told reporters there had been “virtually zero progress” in efforts to get Myanmar’s government to reduce violence, free political prisoners and talk to the opposition. “The secretary will continue to emphasise to partners in the region that we must keep up pressure,” he said, of Blinken’s visit. Myanmar is represented in Laos by a senior Foreign Ministry official. Nikorndej said Myanmar’s representative urged Asean foreign ministers on Tuesday to understand and sympathise with the military government and use more “moderate language” in discussing the crisis. Asean must not bend to accommodate the government’s demands, including recognising its five-step “roadmap” for what is expected to be a one-sided election, said former Thai diplomat Korbsak Chutikul. “Care must be exercised not to be roped into going along with Myanmar’s five-point plan, like to hold elections next year for a semblance of legitimacy,” Korbsak said. – Reuters

The proposal, floated at Tuesday’s meeting of Asean foreign ministers, comes as the bloc runs low on options to tackle the Myanmar crisis. There has been no progress on its “Five Point Consensus” peace plan unveiled months after the coup, or a drive by Indonesia to persuade anti-government groups to start dialogue. In previous months, Thailand has suggested that Myanmar’s other influential neighbours, China and India, might play a role in the peace effort, but the latest plan is limited to the Asean bloc. Any decision on whether Myanmar’s ruling generals or their opponents would be invited to the informal talks would be up to Asean chair Laos and the other member states, Nikorndej said. Myanmar’s civil war and troubles in the disputed South China Sea are key issues set to dominate the Asean leaders’ meeting, which will be followed by two days of summits with prime ministers and top diplomats from regional and world powers. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov are among those set to attend. Opening yesterday’s summit, Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone said Asean

VIENTIANE: Southeast Asian leaders met here yesterday for a summit expected to find ways of tackling a worsening civil war in Myanmar, with Thailand set to propose a new path for a political solution after a regional peace effort made scant progress. Chaos has prevailed in Myanmar since a 2021 military coup sparked a civil war that has ravaged the nation of 55 million. Its government has so far refused to hold talks with its opponents. Thailand offered this week to host an “informal consultation” of the 10 Asean members in December to try to find a way out of the conflict that has displaced millions of people. “We want to see a political solution,” said Thai Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura. “Thailand is ready to coordinate with all other member countries so there would be a concerted Asean effort that could lead to peace in Myanmar.” Thailand’s initiative would complement existing Asean peace efforts, but may not immediately involve countries beyond the region, he said.

Indonesia raises human trafficking red flag JAKARTA: Indonesia has raised concerns about an increasing number of human trafficking victims in Southeast Asia, particularly those coerced into online scams, warning that this trend could hinder regional growth. instead of a hub of growth,” he said. Hadi called for immediate attention to the Asean Leaders’ Declarations on Combating Trafficking in Persons, particularly those stemming from the misuse of technology. Dancers perform during the opening ceremony of the 44th and 45th Asean Summits and Related Summits at the National Convention Centre in Vientiane yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

according to a statement from the ministry. He expressed hope that the Asean Vision 2045 would be realised promptly to equip the region for future challenges. His delegation also emphasised the importance of restraint in the South China Sea to avoid escalating tensions that could lead to open conflict. The republic advocates the urgent finalisation of a Code of Conduct on the South China Sea as a means to maintain peace, while calling for strengthened maritime security through the Asean Maritime Forum (AMF) and the Expanded AMF. – Bernama

While Asean has established agreements on law enforcement cooperation, including the Asean Mutual Legal Assistance, he urged that the Asean Extradition Treaty be finalised quickly to bolster efforts against transnational crime in the region. During the meeting, Hadi commended member states for implementing nearly 100% of the Asean Community Blueprint 2025,

At the 28th Asean Political Security Community Council meeting held in Vientiane on Tuesday, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs Hadi Tjahjanto highlighted the urgent need for enhanced cooperation among Asean countries to combat human trafficking effectively. “If this issue is not taken seriously, Southeast Asia risks becoming the ‘epicentre of scams’

THURSDAY | OCT 10, 2024

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Nepali youngest to scale world’s 14 highest peaks

Most Taiwanese believe China unlikely to invade: Poll TAIPEI: Most Taiwanese believe China is unlikely to invade in the coming five years but see Beijing as a serious threat to the democratic island, a poll by Taiwan’s top military think tank showed yesterday. Over the past five years or so, China’s military has significantly ramped up its activities around Taiwan, which Beijing views as its own territory, over the strong objections of the government in Taipei, and has never renounced the use of force to bring the island under its control. The survey of around 1,200 residents conducted last month by the Institute for National Defence and Security Research (INDSR) showed 61% think it was “unlikely or very unlikely” that China would attack Taiwan in the coming five years. “Most people do not think China’s territorial ambitions will manifest in the form of attacking Taiwan,” said Christina Chen, an INDSR researcher. Taiwan’s residents are also concerned about other Chinese threats, including military drills and propaganda campaigns, she said. “Most people see China’s territorial ambitions as a serious threat,” Chen said. The poll presents a contrast to a warning by the head of US Central Intelligence Agency, who said last year that Chinese President Xi Jinping had ordered his military to be ready to conduct an invasion of Taiwan by 2027. “That means Taiwanese people are aware of the threat but remain calm and rational with the expectations of an imminent war,” said INDSR. More than 67% of respondents said they would fight back if China attacked, but were split almost evenly on whether Taiwan’s armed forces were capable of defending the island, with half expressing confidence. Lee Kuan-chen, another INDSR researcher, said Taiwan’s military should continue to boost its defence capacity to build public trust. The poll also showed a split in opinion on whether the United States would help defend Taiwan. – Reuters North Korea to shut off southern border SEOUL: North Korea’s army said yesterday it was moving to “permanently shut off and block the southern border” with the South and had informed the US military to prevent an accidental clash. Pyongyang said in a statement it would “cut off roads and railways” that might have made travel between the two Koreas possible. However, it was largely a symbolic gesture because cross-border exchanges and travel between North and South Korea have been halted for years. Inter-Korean relations are at one of their lowest points in years, with Pyongyang closing agencies dedicated to reunification and declaring South Korea its “principal enemy”. Some analysts thought the announcement could be a potential first step towards more serious action, such as amending the North’s constitution to declare a new maritime border south of the current de facto line. Pyongyang has named No Kwang Chol as its new defence minister, replacing Kang Sun Nam. That announcement came a day after Seoul’s defence chief said North Korean soldiers were likely fighting in Ukraine alongside Russian troops, with some believed to have been killed and more expected to be deployed. – AFP

o Mountaineer pays tribute to Sherpa climbers

13th mountain, Kanchenjunga, the third highest in the world. “This is a proud moment for our country,” said Nima Nuru Sherpa, president of the Nepal Mountaineering Association. “Nima Rinji broke all the stereotypes, and his success has given a message that nothing is impossible if you have strong determination.” Nepali climbers, usually ethnic Sherpas from the valleys around Everest, are considered the backbone of the climbing industry in the Himalayas. They carry the majority of equipment and food, fixing ropes and repairing ladders. Long in the shadows as supporters of foreign climbers, they are slowly being recognised in their own right. In 2021, a team of Nepali climbers made the first winter ascent of K2, the world’s second highest – the notoriously challenging 8,611m “savage mountain”. – AFP

“This summit is not just the culmination of my personal journey, but a tribute to every Sherpa who has ever dared to dream beyond the traditional boundaries set for us,” Nima said in a statement. “Mountaineering is more than labour, it is a testament to our strength, resilience and passion.” Nima is no stranger to the mountains, hailing from a family of record-holding mountaineers, who also now run Nepal’s largest mountaineering expedition company. The record was previously held by another Nepali climber, Mingma Gyabu ‘David’ Sherpa. He achieved it in 2019, at the age of 30. Nima, who already holds multiple records from his ascents of dozens of peaks, started high-altitude climbing at the age of 16, by climbing Mount Manaslu in August 2022. By June this year, he had climbed his

KATHMANDU: An 18-year-old Nepali mountaineer yesterday broke the record for the youngest person to summit all 14 of the world’s 8,000m peaks, his team said. Nima Rinji Sherpa reached the summit of Tibet’s 8,027m Shisha Pangma yesterday, completing his mission to stand on the world’s highest peaks. “He reached the summit this morning. He had trained well and I was confident he would do it,” said his father Tashi Sherpa. Summiting all 14 “eight-thousanders” is considered the peak of mountaineering aspirations. Climbers cross “death zones” where there is not enough oxygen in the air to sustain human life for long periods.

Businesses board up in preparation for Hurricane Milton in Orlando, Florida. – AFPPIC

Floridians flee looming hurricane catastrophe TAMPA: Floridians yesterday had one final day to evacuate or hunker down ahead of the Category 5 Hurricane Milton , potentially one of the most destructive ever to hit the Gulf Coast of Florida. the storm makes landfall today. The storm is on a rare west-to-east path through the Gulf of Mexico and is likely to bring a deadly storm surge of 3m or more to much of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Milton is expected to maintain hurricane strength as it crosses the Florida peninsula, posing storm surge danger to the state’s Atlantic Coast as well. About 2.8% of US gross domestic product is in the direct path of Milton , said Ryan Sweet, chief US economist at Oxford Economics. Airlines, energy firms and a Universal Studios theme park were among the companies beginning to halt their Florida operations as they braced for disruptions. Milton became the third-fastest intensifying storm on record in the Atlantic, growing from a Category 1 to a Category 5 in less than 24 hours. – Reuters

Officials from US President Joe Biden to Tampa Mayor Jane Castor warned people in evacuation zones to get out or risk death. Milton packed maximum sustained winds of 260kph, the US National Hurricane Centre said, putting it at the highest level on the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale. While wind speeds could drop and downgrade Milton to a lower category, the size of the storm was growing, putting ever more coastal areas in danger.

With more than one million people in coastal areas under evacuation orders, those fleeing for higher ground clogged highways and petrol stations ran out of fuel, further rattling a region still recovering from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene less than two weeks ago. The storm was on a collision course for the Tampa Bay metropolitan area, home to more than three million people, although forecasters said the path could vary before