21/05/2025

MACC steps up cross agency collaboration to plug leakage Priority to enhance oversight of procurement processes, enforcement and combat

WEDNESDAY MAY 21, 2025

RM1

large-scale corruption in public sector, says chief commissioner.

Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY

Report on — page 6

SCAN ME No. 8797 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Report on — page 3 PRECISION STRIKE ... Royal Malaysian Air Force assets demonstrate aerial firing accuracy during the opening ceremony of the Lima ‘25 Exhibition in Langkawi yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Selective scammers Syndicates, particularly those involved in fraudulent investments or phishing, do background research to identify vulnerable individuals with substantial savings.

Anwar launches

first locally made high mobility light tactical vehicle Carrier equipped with modular ballistic protection system designed for patrols and special operations.

Report on h page 2

Employers keen on tax break for attracting

women back to work

Report on h page 4 TalentCorp expects more companies to take advantage of incentives once policy to boost female workforce gazetted.

WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

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First locally-made tactical vehicle launched LANGKAWI: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched “Ribat”, the first High Mobility Light Tactical Vehicle (HMLTV) designed and fully built by local company Mildef International Technologies Sdn Bhd (Mildef ). faith, patriotism and technology. Ribat alludes to the practice of guarding and controlling the border to defend the safety of the people. It symbolises preparedness, courage and the spirit of sacrifice for the country.

King presents appointment letters to three judges KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim yesterday granted an audience and presented instruments of appointment to three judges at Istana Negara. The ceremony, held at Singgahsana Kecil, began with the presentation of the letter of appointment to Federal Court Judge Datuk Lee Swee Seng. His Majesty also presented letters of appointment to two Court of Appeal judges, Datuk Hayatul Akmal Abdul Aziz and Datuk Dr Lim Hock Leng. Present were Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Court of Appeal President Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, Chief Judge of Malaya Datuk Seri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim and Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak Tan Sri Abdul Rahman Sebli. Also in attendance were Attorney General Datuk Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar, Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal Tan Sri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, Federal Court Chief Registrar Datuk Zamri Haji Bakar and Judicial Appointments Commission secretary Salinah Ismail. Lee was previously a Court of Appeal judge, while Hayatul Akmal and Lim were High Court judges. Following the presentation, Sultan Ibrahim posed for a group photograph with the newly appointed judges. – Bernama LANGKAWI: An aerial display by three F/A-18D Hornet aircraft and three Sukhoi SU-30MKM fighter jets, belonging to the Royal Malaysian Air Force, kick-started the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima ‘25) yesterday. The opening of the exhibition and the RMAF opening gambit was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who was accompanied by Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. The spectacular opening act was further enlivened with a formation and aerobatic air show involving 25 aerial assets, including six Pilatus PC-7 MK II training aircraft, two A400M transport aircraft, three C130H aircraft and eight helicopters of various types, including the EC-725, AW-139 and EC120B. The performance was held at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre airspace and was witnessed by thousands of visitors, including local and foreign delegates. Also present were deputy prime ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil as well as Malaysian Armed Forces chief Jen Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar. The 17th edition of Lima brings together 860 exhibitors from 24 countries, of which 426 are international companies and 434 local. The five-day exhibition themed “Today’s Innovation, Tomorrow’s Achievements” ends on May 24. It is seen as a platform to further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for defence and aerospace. Lima has been one of the largest maritime and aerospace exhibitions in Southeast Asia since its inception in 1991. – Bernama Lima ‘25 kicks off with spectacular aerial display

As an open trading economy, Malaysia must continually seek ways to protect its economic interests. Anwar’s call in Moscow for a stronger Global South voice echoed similar sentiments conveyed during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Malaysia in April. He also rallied the Global South to support reforms to the international financial system, especially the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation, which he believes should promote free trade and avoid discriminating against smaller nations. “The rise of protectionism has begun even among G20 nations that were originally proponents of free trade principles. “We will continue to promote an inclusive and sustainable approach to peace and security, both within our immediate region and beyond.” The upcoming Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit, involving 10 Southeast Asian and six Middle Eastern nations, is expected to strengthen Global South cooperation. These meetings offer key opportunities to engage Asean’s main trading partners and reaffirm its support for rules-based multilateralism, as Asean, BRICS and the Global South commonly oppose unilateralism. Anwar also witnessed the inking of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between Mildef and the Defence Science and Technology Research Institute (STRIDE), a prominent research agency under the Defence Ministry. The MoA is aimed at focusing efforts on the development of two more tactical vehicle platforms that will be fully designed domestically. At the agreement signing, Mildef was represented by its managing director Datuk Seri Mohd Nizam Kasa, PT Pindad by Sigit Puji Santosa and STRIDE by Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Malaysian Armed Forces chief Jen Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar witnessed the signing of the agreement. Mildef said in a statement that the launch solidified its position as the country’s leading land defence company. It said Ribat was developed by local engineers with the support of industrial-grade engineering facilities in Seremban and Sepang, and is equipped with a modular ballistic protection system designed for missions such as patrols, convoys and special operations. Mohd Nizam said Ribat not only illustrates the capability of local industries but also the success of government policy in empowering a self-reliant and high-impact defence ecosystem. “Ribat is the result of local innovation, which proves that Malaysia is not only capable of being a user of defence systems but also a creator of strategic technology trusted by both the government and the global community.” Since its establishment in 2005, Mildef has grown from a group of young engineers to become a key player in the national defence industry, with its success in building various assets such as the high mobility armoured vehicle Tarantula, the Rentaka 4x4 and now the HMLTV Ribat. – Bernama

At the event, Anwar witnessed the signing of an MoU between Mildef and major Indonesian defence company PT Pindad. The collaboration is set to open up opportunities for exports, technology transfer and system integration between the two regional nations.

The launch yesterday was held in conjunction with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre. The name Ribat, given by Anwar, carries a symbolic value and refers to the spirit of guarding and defending the country based on

Anwar, accompanied by deputy prime ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, arriving for the launch in Langkawi yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC M’sia, Asean key players in Global South: PM

o During visits abroad, Anwar called for deeper South South collaboration to consolidate economic, political influence to enable grouping to carve out own destiny

KUALA LUMPUR: As Asean chair, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is clearly asserting the position of Malaysia and the regional bloc as key players in the Global South. The grouping, as a rising force to be reckoned with, is demanding a global shift from the dominance of bipolarity to equitable power-sharing through multipolarity. Throughout his visits from South America to Southeast Asia, and most recently to Russia, Anwar’s clear message has been for deeper South-South collaboration to consolidate economic and political influence, enabling these nations to carve out their own destinies rather than be dictated to by the North or developed countries. His call for a stronger Global South is therefore timely as emerging economies grow in stature and influence, seeking a greater say in shaping the global economic and political agenda. Given that the Global South represents 85% of the world’s population and accounts

for more than 40% of global GDP, a share that is only expanding, its call for equity is highly justified. As part of this strategy, Malaysia is now one of the nine partner countries in BRICS, an informal grouping of emerging economies. Its membership is fast expanding from the original five – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates became official members in 2024, giving the grouping greater clout in undertaking economic initiatives. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said Malaysia’s Global South push is driven by the principle of a shared future, which has been well received by other leaders. On his visit to Russia, during which he met President Vladimir Putin, Anwar told the Malaysian media that the nation remains committed to expanding regional and global partnerships amid shifting geopolitics, Bernama reported.

WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

3 Scammers ‘zero in’ on target before executing ruse

Ministry to lodge reports over fake news on MyKiosk PUTRAJAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry will file police reports and complaints to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) following the circulation of several videos and false news regarding the MyKiosk project. Its minister Nga Kor Ming said he has instructed the Local Government Department to identify the individuals or parties spreading the fake news. “The ministry’s staff are actively compiling all the videos spreading false information. If you want to spread fake news, go ahead, but we will also take stern action,” he said after the pre-launch ceremony of the Minister’s Excellence Awards and Media Excellence Awards 2025 here yesterday. Nga said the ministry will lodge a complaint with the MCMC to enable an investigation under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998. When asked about calls for the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission to intervene and investigate the MyKiosk project, Nga said he is ready to cooperate if an investigation is conducted. Responding to allegations that the ministry appointed its own contractors for the MyKiosk installations, Nga clarified that the claim is untrue, as all 795 contractors involved were appointed by 156 local authorities nationwide. Nga said the ministry only provides funding, while the local authorities handle other aspects such as contractor selection and kiosk location. On claims that the cost of MyKiosk units is too high, Nga said the cost is justified due to upgrades in the MyKiosk 2.0 model, which includes features like solar panels and long-lasting batteries, LED lighting, ambient LED lights and LED signage. – Bernama Call for early HFMD screenings to curb spread PUTRAJAYA: Childcare centre and kindergarten operators are urged to carry out early symptom screenings to curb the spread of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD). Health Deputy Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said cooperation from childcare centre and kindergarten operators in conducting screenings, including monitoring for signs of infection on children’s hands, feet and mouth, is crucial to prevent further spread of the disease. He reminded parents to observe basic hygiene practices, including frequent hand washing, sanitising shared toys and ensuring clean restroom facilities. “We advise the public not to panic, as preventative measures are actively being implemented. “What we need now is community cooperation, especially from childcare centre and kindergarten operators,” he said after launching the Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Erectile Dysfunction here yesterday. On May 12, the ministry reported that as of the 17th epidemiological week ending April 26, a total of 99,601 HFMD cases were recorded nationwide, marking a 266% increase, compared with 27,236 cases during the same period last year.

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE AND FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

to work closely with Malaysia and expressed hope that this collaboration will further strengthen in future efforts to combat cybercrime. Jetton highlighted artificial intelligence (AI) and encrypted technologies are key areas of concern, noting that law enforcement agencies often face challenges in keeping up with the fast-evolving tools employed by cybercriminals. “My team focuses a lot on how we can keep up with these technologies, though we’re not necessarily the subject matter experts in AI to help us respond effectively,” he said. – Bernama and where they live.” Tun Kamalul urged scam victims to contact police immediately, stressing that swift action can reduce losses. Meanwhile, Universiti Malaya Computer Science and Technology Department professor Dr Nor Badrul Anuar Juma’at raised the alarm over a worrying rise in cyberstalking through fake utility apps such as flashlight or QR code scanner apps. “These apps often abuse permissions to harvest contacts, keystrokes or media files,” he said in an email to theSun. “Some are distributed via sideloaded APKs on WhatsApp or third-party sites, bypassing Google Play’s security.” He also cited malware hidden in customised Android ROMs, targeting niche communities. Despite Malaysia’s growing pool of cybersecurity professionals, including those in CyberSecurity Malaysia, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission and local universities, Nor Badrul said challenges remain in tracking cyberstalking cases. “Real-time threat intelligence sharing, the legal admissibility of digital evidence and resource limitations in enforcement are still major hurdles. “Stalkerware often uses encryption and remote command and-control servers hosted abroad, making attribution nearly impossible without international cooperation.” He called for clearer legal definitions and regulations around digital stalking and spyware, alongside stronger public education efforts. “Cybersecurity is still widely seen as a technical issue rather than a personal responsibility.” While efforts by CyberSecurity Malaysia and NGOs have helped, he said more targeted campaigns are needed, particularly for women, teenagers and vulnerable groups. Universiti Malaya runs its own public awareness initiative at https://cybersafe.um.edu.my, he added.

o Selection not random as background checks on financial status would be carried out on potential prey that usually comprises

PETALING JAYA: Scammers aren’t casting wide nets – they are zeroing in. Individuals with substantial savings are often in the crosshairs, as scammers increasingly “weed out” potential victims through careful profiling rather than random selection. IT professional in the cybersecurity field, Tun Kamalul Zaman, said scammers typically conduct background research and build a profile of their target before executing a ruse. He added that there are many scams existing today but the most common ones that involve millions of ringgit in losses are investment scams, phishing scams and data breaches. “They always study their targets first. They do what we call their own research. These type of scammers

business owners, pensioners and women, says IT expert

don’t just go for anybody. “They are very selective on who they want to prey on,” Tun Kamalul told theSun . He said apart from business owners, scammers would also target pensioners and women. “They will run background checks to find out how much their victims have in their savings and EPF (Employees Provident Fund) accounts. He said scammers typically begin by buying leaked personal data, with the victims’ phone numbers ending up in the hands

of syndicates. “So

when claim scammers randomly pick victims – I’d disagree. In fact, they don’t,” said Tun Kamalul, adding that data breaches often trace back to telecommunication companies. “These phone numbers usually come attached with names and identification card numbers. From there, scammers can cross reference with other databases for other details such as vehicle registration numbers and home addresses. “They can estimate a person’s worth based on the car they drive people

Tun Kamalul said there are many scams existing today but the most common ones that involve millions of ringgit in losses are investment scams, phishing scams and data breaches. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Phishing likely most widespread threat: Interpol KUALA LUMPUR: Online scams and phishing remain the most prevalent global cyber threats, with criminals leveraging increasingly whether for romantic, business or financial opportunities,”he said after the opening of the inaugural Cyber Games 2025 yesterday.

The urgency of the issue is evident in Malaysia’s statistics, with ransomware incidents rising by a staggering 78% in the fourth quarter of 2024, reflecting the increasing complexity and scale of cyber threats locally. When asked about Malaysia’s capacity to tackle such threats, Jetton commended the Royal Malaysian Police for their dedication and proactive efforts in combating cybercrime. “I’ve had several interactions with Malaysian police, and I can speak very positively about their efforts. Cybercrime in general is just very difficult,” he said. He added that Interpol continues

sophisticated tactics to deceive victims, said Interpol Cybercrime Directorate head Dr Neal Jetton. He said most cybercrimes observed across Asia and globally stem from social engineering attacks, such as phishing, ransomware and business email compromise. “Phishing-related scams are likely the most widespread cyber threat today, not just in Malaysia or the Asia Pacific, but globally. “These often involve emails or messages that appear legitimate,

Jetton, who is based in Singapore, stressed that cybercrime is both a regional and global challenge, noting that approximately 75 to 80% of cyber incidents worldwide involve a human element, most commonly through phishing. Phishing is a form of cyberattack in which criminals impersonate trusted sources via emails or messages to deceive individuals into disclosing sensitive information, such as passwords, financial credentials or personal data.

WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

4

Move to boost women hires catching on

o More companies expected to sign up for govt tax breaks once full incentive mechanism announced : TalentCorp

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

ongoing efforts. “We will be announcing the full incentive mechanism soon. Once that is in place, more companies will come forward and we will be able to collect clearer data on women returning to work.” Earlier, theSun reported a need for greater salary transparency and stricter enforcement of fair pay to address gender wage disparities. Women’s Aid Organisation executive director Nazreen Nizam highlighted that the absence of legislation mandating equal pay for work of equal value has allowed gender wage gaps to persist unchecked across various sectors. She stressed that Malaysia must roll out clear legal frameworks, backed by enforcement and penalties, to ensure pay equity. Wong said narrowing the gender pay gap is not the sole responsibility of any one agency as it also requires active participation from the private sector.

KUALA LUMPUR: Government tax incentives aimed at encouraging the hiring of women returning to the workforce and promoting flexible work policies are gaining traction among employers, said TalentCorp chairperson Wong Shu Qi. Wong said although official data has yet to be released, the agency has seen a surge in enquiries from companies keen to take advantage of the incentives. “Last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced additional 50% tax incentives under Budget 2025 to encourage employers to hire women returning to work, adopt flexible work arrangements and provide paid caregiver leave. “However, these incentives are in the process of being gazetted before full implementation.” She said to close the gender pay gap, the government is offering a one-year income tax exemption for women re-entering the workforce, part of a broader push to boost female labour participation. Speaking after launching Malaysia’s first Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEP) Corporate Action Lab yesterday, Wong said the policy would remain in place until 2027 as part of TANAH MERAH: Each day, more than 100 families in Kampung Peralla One here begin their routines with a shared hope that the air tandak (water collected from a small hilltop dam), their primary water source, does not run dry. Without access to a tap water supply, they depend solely on a makeshift water channel system constructed through cooperation using their own funds and labour. Air Tandak Kampung Peralla One chairperson Azhar Zakaria said the air tandak system was developed after the water supply from Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd became too inconsistent. “Sometimes, there was water and sometimes, there was not. Yet, the bill still came to RM100 a month. So,

From right: Women’s Economic Empowerment and Private Sector Engagement programme specialist Amy Baum, Wong, Gatehosue and LeadWomen consulting and client services manager Liza Liew during the launch. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

“A wide pay gap not only hampers economic growth but also shifts hidden costs to families. Tax relief policies are a start but they must be part of a broader strategy. “There is no one-size-fits-all solution but businesses must understand that hiring more women delivers long-term returns. Failing to do so ultimately hurts the economy and individual companies.” She also reaffirmed TalentCorp’s Villagers rely on makeshift water channel system commitment to building pathways that empower women to balance careers and caregiving, aligned with the national target of 60% female labour participation. UN Women, LeadWomen and TalentCorp have launched the WEP, which is an initiative to guide companies in adopting gender-responsive strategies and creating more equitable workplaces. “Malaysia’s female labour participation has remained stagnant at

around 56%. We have been working with policymakers and partners to push that number forward,” said Wong. Australian High Commission to Malaysia political and economic counsellor Clare Gatehouse said the proportion of women in senior management and board roles dropped from 40.4% in 2023 to 36.5% this year. “Despite equal or higher levels of education, Malaysian women earn about 80% of what men make in similar roles.” constructed using PVC pipes and cement channels, running from the hill to a water storage tank situated at the village. The tank supplies water to over 100 homes through a network of manually connected pipes. At the mini dam site, several residents were seen clearing channels clogged with leaves and mud. The path to the catchment area is steep and slippery, and residents also have to carry equipment such as hoes, pipes and water filters by hand. Several residents expressed hope for a more sustainable setup with government support, including the installation of a safer filtration system and a main water pipeline to the village. – Bernama Madani Agro Sales events have been held across 32 locations in the state, with Cap Feri rice as the main item sold, selling out within two hours at each venue. “At the state government level, there has been no formal monitoring or survey due to resource constraints.” Cap Feri rice was introduced to provide affordable, quality rice, specifically to meet the needs of the B40 group in the state. – Bernama

To support change, Australia has worked with the Women, Family and Community Development Ministry to strengthen Malaysia’s care economy, including by developing policies to improve the quality of care services for workers and users. “Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri believes family-friendly workplaces and a strong care sector are crucial to achieving gender parity. Without focused action, we will not see these numbers improve,” she said. Premium wages at economic zone ISKANDAR PUTERI: Foreign investors in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) have agreed to offer premium salaries starting from RM3,500 to local workers. Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the agreement was reached following discussions facilitated by the state branch of the Malaysian Investment Facilitation Centre and the Johor Talent Development Council. “One of the key matters discussed was the need to set a minimum salary of RM3,500 and above for diploma holders while degree holders should be offered at least RM4,000,” he said during the state legislative assembly sitting at Kota Iskandar yesterday. He was responding to a question from Datuk Zulkarnain Kamisan (BN–Sri Medan) about the state government’s requirements for foreign investors regarding the hiring of local workers and salary levels. Onn Hafiz added that investors have set key conditions, namely workforce productivity and technical skills must be aligned with the salaries being offered. On the hiring of local workers, he said the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry at the federal level has stipulated that the workforce composition in the manufacturing sector must comprise at least 80% local workers. – Bernama

we decided to build our own air tandak system, tapping into a spring water source from the hill, channelling it into a large tank and distributing it to our homes.” He admitted that maintaining the system is no easy task. During rainy weather, leaves and sand often clog the mini dam and disrupt the flow, while in the hot season, the water source could dry up completely. Azhar said they have to ascend the hill at least twice a month to clean and carry out repairs on the water channel system. He added that each trip to the hill for cleaning and maintenance can cost up to RM200, a significant burden considering most residents work as rubber tappers or

construction workers. “We take turns contributing money to keep the village water system running. We are not wealthy but for the sake of our children and wives, we work hard. Even then, air tandak is not safe to drink, so we still have to buy mineral water for daily consumption,” he said. Food trader Nik Salleh Muhammad said the cost of buying bottled water for his business can reach up to RM500 a month. “If there is no clean water, I cannot run my shop. It is 2025 now, some villages have high-speed internet, but here we still have to climb a hill just to get clean water,” he said. A check by Bernama at the site found that the mini dam system was

Affordable rice brand benefits B40 group in Penang GEORGE TOWN: Nearly 48,000 B40 households in Penang have benefitted from the Cap Feri rice brand within the first three months of its launch on Dec 19 last year, the state legislative assembly was told yesterday. State Agrotechnology, Food Security and Cooperative accessible to B40 households. “As of March 20, the total production is 16,000 bags (80 metric tonnes), with a sales value of RM272,000. “The Cap Feri rice brand has received positive response due to its retail price of RM17 for a 5kg bag, making it one of the most affordable options on the market.” effectiveness of the Cap Feri rice initiative since its launch, including its ability to meet the needs of B40 households, the number of bags sold and key success indicators of the programme.

Fahmi added that the success of the Cap Feri rice initiative is measured by its sales during the Madani Agro Sales programme, with a minimum of 500 bags offered at each location. He said as of last month, 32

Development Committee chairman Fahmi Zainol said the brand of rice is sold throughout the state through sales centres that are easily

He was responding to an oral question from Izhar Shah Arif Shah (PN–Seberang Jaya) regarding the

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WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

6

MACC to beef up crackdown on ‘grand corruption’

35 undocumented migrants detained KOTA BHARU: The General Operations Force (GOF) 8th Battalion, Southeast Brigade rescued 35 undocumented migrants believed to be victims of human trafficking during a raid at a house in Lorong Dato Kadok in Ketereh on Monday. Its commander Datuk Nik Ros Azhan Nik Ab Hamid said the 11.30am operation followed intelligence on human smuggling activities using the premises as a transit point. “During the raid, two local men were found inside a car parked in front of the house. Further inspection led to the discovery of 11 Bangladeshi men and 24 Myanmar nationals, comprising 19 men and five women,” he said in a statement. Investigations revealed the Bangladeshis and one Myanmar man had no valid entry stamps on their papers, while the rest did not have any identification documents. He said the two local suspects, aged 31 and 57, are believed to be agents smuggling the migrants via illegal routes, adding that one suspect tested positive for methamphetamine. All the detained migrants are being held under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, while the locals are being investigated under Section 26J of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007. In another case, GOF seized 55.89kg of cannabis worth over RM1.95 million in a raid at the Tok Awang Belulang illegal jetty in Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas. Nik Ros Azhan said the raid at 7.20am on Monday was carried out in collaboration with the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Division of the Pasir Mas district police headquarters. “Acting on intelligence, the team watched for 10 minutes before conducting a raid on a 4WD vehicle at the jetty,“ he said when contacted. He added that a local man in his 30s and a 52 year-old Thai woman were arrested. Further inspection found 13 boxes containing the cannabis wrapped in plastic. “The initial urine screening tests found that the Thai woman was positive for methamphetamine.“ He also said the 4WD vehicle, estimated to be worth RM100,000, was also seized. – Bernama Driver charged with hiding stolen cows TELUK INTAN: A lorry driver who is facing a charge of dangerous driving that resulted in the deaths of nine Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) members was charged in the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday with transporting two stolen cows. Rudi Zulkarnain Mat Radi, 45, pleaded not guilty to a charge of assisting in concealing the two cows belonging to Rozali Ismail, 66, from Kampung Sungai Keli, Hutan Melintang. The offence was allegedly committed in Kampung Kebun Baru in Hutan Melintang at 6pm on April 14. The charge, under Section 414 of the Penal Code, provides a maximum prison sentence of seven years or a fine, or both. Magistrate Naidatul Athirah Azman allowed bail of RM3,000 in one surety and set June 16 for mention. Earlier, DPP Izzuddin Fakri Hamdan proposed bail of RM5,000 in one surety, but lawyer Mohd Hafizuddin Khan Norkhan requested a reduced bail on the grounds that his client was facing 10 charges, including causing the deaths of the FRU members. He said the accused also had no income because his licence had been suspended, and the two cows had been handed back to the owner. Last Friday, Rudi Zulkarnain pleaded not guilty in the Magistrate’s Court here to a charge of dangerous driving causing the death of nine FRU members on May 13. He was allowed bail of RM6,000 in one surety. His employer posted the bail. – Bernama

o Commission to focus on misappropriation of public funds and strict oversight of procurement processes

Department, Inland Revenue Board, Companies Commission of Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Mara and the Malaysian Institute of Accountants. “The Accounting Fraud Working Group reflects our collective commitment to ensuring full accountability for every ringgit of public funds, while reinforcing coordinated action grounded in each agency’s expertise. “We can no longer operate in silos, as if each agency were sailing its own ship toward an unclear destination. The working group serves as the strategic map that aligns our course and strengthens our joint navigation in tackling increasingly complex financial crimes,” said Azam. He added that the graft busters also play an active role in the Auditor-General’s Report Action Committee, taking follow-up action on audit findings that may involve elements of corruption or abuse of power.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) is ramping up its integrated crackdown on public fund misappropriation and procurement leakage through targeted, cross-agency collaboration and systemic reforms. Its chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki said one of the key priorities for 2025 is to enhance oversight of procurement processes, enforcement and the fight against large-scale corruption, or grand corruption, particularly in high-risk sectors. “Recurring findings in the Auditor General’s Report clearly highlight weaknesses

in internal controls, creating opportunities for leakage, low-impact investments and payments made without a solid contractual basis,” he told Bernama yesterday. He added that MACC is also placing special focus on “sick” and abandoned projects, which have a significant impact on national financial stability. To address these issues comprehensively, Azam said MACC and six other agencies have established the Accounting Fraud Working Group as a coordination platform to address financial crimes more effectively. The agencies are the National Audit Department, Accountant General’s

An enforcement officer examining the illegal e-waste stored at the premises. – PIC COURTESY OF KEDAH DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com Raid conducted on errant recycling plant

authorisation to recover scheduled waste.” The case is being investigated under multiple provisions of the Environmental Quality Act 1974, which governs environmental safety and public health. Among the provisions breached were Section 18(1) for operating without approval (RM25,000 to RM250,000 fine or up to two years’ jail), Section 34A(7) for failing to comply with EIA conditions (RM100,000 to RM1 million fine and up to five years’ jail) and Section 34B(1) for storing scheduled waste without approval (RM100,000 to RM10 million fine and mandatory five-year prison term). Tools and machinery used to process the batteries and e-waste were also seized. Sharifah said the facility is a known offender with a string of past violations. “Despite earlier enforcement action and advisory efforts to help them legalise operations, the operator continued with unlawful activities,” she said, adding that five investigation papers have been filed, with one

case resulting in a conviction and four others still in progress. She also said illegal waste handling is not confined to Kedah. “Even with strict laws and heavy penalties, these activities persist, often driven by low awareness and financial greed,” she told theSun . Sharifah added that lithium batteries and e-waste contain toxic elements such as cobalt, lead, cadmium and mercury, which pose serious environmental and health risks if mishandled. “They can contaminate soil and water, trigger spontaneous fires and release toxic fumes. Health risks include respiratory issues, nerve damage, kidney failure, hormonal disruption and increased cancer risk, especially among vulnerable groups.” The department also urged the public to report any similar illegal activities via its toll-free hotline at 1-800-88-2727 or online at http://eaduan.doe.gov.my.

SUNGAI PETANI: A recycling plant in the Gurun Industrial Area that was flouting environmental laws has been raided in a late night operation by the Kedah Department of Environment (DOE) and police. The raid, that began late on Monday and stretched into the early hours of yesterday, was part of a statewide blitz targeting repeat environmental offenders. Authorities found the facility illegally handling, storing and recovering scheduled waste that included five metric tonnes of used lithium batteries and 26 metric tonnes of mixed electronic waste, without proper approvals or documentation. “These materials were being processed without the necessary licences,” said Kedah DOE director Sharifah Zakiah Syed Sahab. “The plant was operating without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or

WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

7 S’porean faces new charges over US$263m crypto theft

Taiwan wants peace and security TAIPEI: Taiwan wants peace and dialogue with China as war has no winners, but the government must continue to strengthen the island’s defences, President Lai Ching-te said yesterday as he completed one year in office. China calls Lai a “separatist” and has rebuffed his offers for talks. Lai rejects China’s sovereignty claims over the island, saying only Taiwan’s citizens can decide their future. A government spokesperson said last week that Taiwan could not rule out the possibility that China could mark the anniversary with military drills. Speaking to reporters at the presidential office in central Taipei, Lai said Taiwan’s people love peace. “I, too, am committed to peace. Because peace is priceless and war has no winners. But when it comes to seeking peace, we cannot have dreams nor illusions,” he said. “Taiwan will continue to strengthen its defences as preparing for war is the best way to avoid it,” Lai added. “I also reiterate here – Taiwan is happy to have exchanges and cooperation with China as long as there is reciprocal dignity. Using exchanges to replace hemming in, dialogue to replace confrontation.” China’s Taiwan Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. China’s Defence Ministry last week said Lai was a “Taiwan Strait crisis maker” who had increased antagonism and confrontation and undermined peace and stability. Last month, China held war games code-named “Strait Thunder-2025A” around Taiwan, the “A” at its end suggesting there could be more to come. China called its May 2024 drills just after Lai took office “Joint Sword-2024A”, and in October of that year staged “Joint Sword-2024B”. – Reuters Sri Lanka train hits elephant, derails COLOMBO: A Sri Lankan express train killed an elephant and was derailed yesterday, despite safety measures introduced after the country’s worst wildlife railway accident three months ago on the same route. Local officials said the young wild elephant crossing the track near Habarana was run over by the same train involved in the Feb 20 accident that killed seven elephants. After that crash, officials imposed speed limits on trains passing through elephant habitats. No passengers were injured in the incident, which occurred some 180km by road east of the capital Colombo. Railway authorities said an investigation was underway, and engineers were trying to put the Colombo-Batticaloa train back on the track after the pre-dawn collision. The authorities had earlier announced changes to train timetables and efforts to clear shrubs from either side of the track to improve visibility for drivers, to give them more time to avoid hitting elephants. Wildlife officials have said 139 elephants have been killed by trains over the past 17 years, since authorities began collecting such data. The government has also announced that 1,195 people and 3,484 elephants have been killed in the past decade due to the worsening human-elephant conflict on the island. – AFP

o Accused charged with heading gang

prosecutors alleged that he orchestrated a wider scheme with a dozen other individuals, according to CNA. He appeared in a Washington DC court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to the superseding indictment. Lam and Conor Flansburg, 21, from California, are named in the indictment as the group’s organisers. The group allegedly met through online gaming platforms and developed a scheme that netted a total of US$263 million. They allegedly stole funds from cryptocurrency wallets, converted the crypto into US dollars and laundered the proceeds.

They also allegedly carried out home burglaries, including one incident in which a member of the crime ring broke into a victim’s home in New Mexico to steal a hardware wallet containing virtual currency. The 13 suspects, including Lam, have been charged under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (Rico) Act. In a press release issued on May 15, the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia said members of the syndicate held various roles, including database hackers, organisers, target identifiers, callers, money launderers and burglars targeting hardware cryptocurrency wallets.

Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), said four sources with knowledge of the matter. They asked not to be identified due to the sensitive nature of the case. CPIB did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Bloomberg earlier reported that the Singapore trading firms had been approached in the investigation. The Attorney-General’s Office said it has questioned hundreds of witnesses in the probe. – Reuters sites including Choeung Ek, a notorious former “Killing Field” in Phnom Penh, where an annual Day of Remembrance event is held. Hundreds gathered at Choeung Ek, where about 15,000 people died between 1975 and 1979, holding prayers in front of a display of victims’ skulls. Students brandishing mock weapons then acted out slitting victims’ throats, shooting or clubbing them in a re-enactment of attacks on civilians. Some attendees cried at the confrontingly vivid re-enactment. “My tears fell when I watched the performance,” said attendee and survivor Chruok Sam, 70. He lost 12 family members under the Khmer Rouge and said the performance showed “exactly the same” as what he had experienced in 1975. He hoped the re-enactment would help young generations learn more about what he called “a heinous and cruel regime”. Another survivor, 63-year-old Em Ry, said she was still scared and had never been able to forget Pol Pot’s time in power. She was forced to work all day and only ate a “spoonful of corn”, she said. Prime Minister Hun Manet, who was at the opening of a new cement plant in central Kampong Speu province, urged people not to forget the past. – AFP Members and associates of the enterprise allegedly used the stolen virtual currency to buy luxury handbags, watches and clothing, rental homes in Los Angeles, the Hamptons and Miami, private jet rentals, and a fleet of at least 28 exotic cars ranging in value from US$100,000 to US$3.8 million. “Following his arrest in September 2024 and continuing while in pretrial detention, Lam is alleged to have continued working with members of the enterprise to pass and receive directions, collect stolen cryptocurrency, and to have members buy luxury bags and hand deliver them to his girlfriend in Miami, Florida,” the statement said. – Bernama

SINGAPORE: Malone Lam, already facing charges in the United States over a cryptocurrency theft, is now accused of heading a 13-member crime ring that allegedly stole hundreds of millions of dollars in cryptocurrency, according to local media. Lam, 20, was first charged in September last year with stealing and laundering over US$230 million (RM986 million) in cryptocurrency from a victim. In the new indictment, federal

Cambodian students re-enact Khmer Rouge crimes PHNOM PENH: Cambodian

genocide that killed two million people in the 1970s. A quarter of Cambodia’s population died of starvation, forced labour or torture or were

slaughtered in mass killings under Pol Pot’s Khmer Rouge between 1975 and 1979. The Khmer Rouge atrocities are commemorated at museums and

students wearing all black and wielding bamboo clubs and wooden rifles staged a dramatic re-enactment yesterday of a

Students perform a re-enactment of Khmer Rouge crimes to mark the ‘Day of Remembrance’ in Phnom Penh. – AFPPIC

Foreign trading firms queried in graft probe JAKARTA: The Attorney-General’s Office here has approached a number of trading firms in Singapore regarding a corruption investigation involving state energy firm Pertamina. and promised to improve transparency following the arrests. Investigators now want to question some Singapore trading companies about the case, said Harli Siregar, a spokesperson for the Attorney-General’s Office. questioned to strengthen evidence gathering for the investigation,” Siregar said, declining to give further details. Pertamina spokesperson Fadjar Djoko Santoso said: “We respect the legal process and support

A number of executives at subsidiaries of Pertamina were arrested earlier this year for alleged corruption related to oil imports between 2018 and 2023 that caused US$12 billion (RM51.44 billion) in state losses. Pertamina publicly apologised

Earlier attempts to summon the companies, whose names have not been disclosed, to Jakarta were unsuccessful, so the companies could possibly be questioned in Singapore, Siregar said. “These companies will be

the Attorney-General’s Office in its investigation and law enforcement efforts in accordance with applicable regulations.” At least four trading companies have received a letter to assist with the investigation at Singapore’s

WEDNESDAY | MAY 21, 2025

8

Australia’s opposition coalition breaks up

BRITON RUNS ACROSS AUSTRALIA IN 35 DAYS

India arrests 11 over spying charges NEW DELHI: Indian authorities have arrested 11 nationals for allegedly spying for Pakistan. Broadcaster NDTV reported on Monday that authorities had arrested nine people in the northern states of Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh. Punjab’s director-general of police Gaurav Yadav said on Monday that his team had arrested two people “involved in leaking sensitive military information”. Police had received “credible intelligence inputs” the two men were involved “in sharing classified details” related to New Delhi’s strikes on the night of May 6-7. A preliminary investigation showed they were in “direct contact” with handlers from Pakistan’s Inter-services Intelligence (ISI) agency and “had transmitted critical information concerning the Indian Armed Forces”, Yadav said. In Haryana, police arrested a travel blogger last week on similar charges. Police say the accused woman travelled to Pakistan at least twice and had been in contact with an official from the country’s embassy. Others arrested include a student, a security guard and a businessman. The India Today news outlet reported 11 such arrests. It said the accused were “lured into the spy network through social media, monetary incentives, false promises, messaging apps and personal visits to Pakistan”. The arrests come after the worst flare-up in violence between the neighbours since their last open conflict in 1999. A ceasefire was agreed after four days of missile, drone and artillery attacks that sparked fears of a descent into full-blown war. Kashmir is claimed in full by both countries, which have fought wars over the Himalayan territory since their 1947 independence from Britain. – AFP CONFIRMED AS AMBASSADOR WASHINGTON: The US Senate on Monday approved the nomination of Charles Kushner, the father of President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, as the next US ambassador to France. The vote was 51 to 45. Kushner, a real estate executive and former attorney who spent time in federal prison after pleading guilty in 2004 to tax evasion, among other crimes, was pardoned by Trump in 2020 near the end of his first term. Kushner’s son Jared Kushner, who married Trump’s eldest daughter Ivanka in 2009, also served as the president’s adviser during his first term, notably on conflict in the Middle East. The elder Kushner, 71, heads to Paris at an interesting time in US-France relations, as the historic allies – and Europe in general – are strained by the president’s trade policies. In addition to his role in Paris, Kushner will serve as US ambassador to Monaco. – AFP SYDNEY: A British athlete says he has set a new world record for running across Australia, notching up the equivalent of 90 marathons in 35 days. William Goodge started his 3,860km effort in Western Australia on April 15, trekking through desert, farmland and forest before finishing at Sydney’s famed Bondi beach on Monday. Averaging about two-and-a-half marathons each day, the English-born endurance runner smashed the previous record of 39 days set in 2023. “It was like a revolving nightmare that wouldn’t end,” the 30-year old told the Sydney Morning Herald . “The first nine days were extremely challenging. But you have to tell your body and mind that even though you’re struggling, you’re going to persevere and you’re going to get through it.” Goodge, who ran across the United States in 2023, uses his feats to raise money for charity after his mother died of cancer in 2018. – AFP TRUMP IN-LAW KUSHNER

BR I E F S

o Parting of ways comes after election loss to Labor

The Nationals had failed to gain a commitment from Ley that her party would continue a policy taken to the election supporting the introduction of nuclear power, and also wanted a crackdown on the market power of Australia’s large supermarkets, and better telecommunications in the outback. Australia has the world’s largest uranium reserves but bans nuclear energy. Littleproud said nuclear

installed in the role last week, had pledged to revisit all policies in the wake of the election loss. She said yesterday she was disappointed with the Nationals decision, which came after they had sought specific commitments. “As the largest non government political party, the Liberals will form the official opposition,” she added. The Liberals were reduced to 28 out of 150 seats in the House of

SYDNEY: Australia’s National Party has split from its conservative coalition partner of over 60 years, the Liberal Party, citing policy differences over renewable energy and after a resounding loss at a national election this month. “Its time to have a break,” said Nationals leader David Littleproud (pic) yesterday. The split shows the pressure on Australia’s conservative parties after Anthony Albanese’s centre-left Labor party won a historic second term in the May 3 election, powered by a voter backlash against US President Donald Trump’s policies. Under the long-standing partnership in state and federal politics, the Liberal and National coalition had shared power in governments, with the Nationals broadly representing the interests of rural communities and the Liberals contesting city seats. “We will not be re-entering a coalition agreement with the Liberal Party after this election,” Littleproud said, citing policy differences. Liberal Party leader Sussan Ley, who was

Representatives, its worst result, as Labor increased its tally to 94 from 77, registering its largest-ever majority in an Australian election. The National Party retained 15 seats. The Liberal Party lost key city seats to independents supporting gender equality. Ley, a former outback pilot with three finance degrees, was elected as the party’s first woman leader after opposition leader Peter Dutton lost his seat in the election. “She is a leader that needs to rebuild the Liberal party, they are going on a journey of rediscovery and this will provide them the opportunity to do that,” said Littleproud. The Nationals remain committed to “having the door open” for more coalition talks before the next election, but would uphold the interests of rural Australians, he said.

power was needed because Australia’s move away from coal to “renewables only” under the Labor government was not reliable. Wind farm turbines “are tearing up our landscape, they are tearing up your food security”, he said. Michael Guerin, chief executive of AgForce, representing farmers in Queensland state, said the urban-rural divide was worsening. “Perhaps we’re seeing that in the political forum,” he said, adding the Liberals and Nationals each needed to rebuild. Treasurer Jim Chalmers of the Labor party said the split in the opposition was a “nuclear meltdown”, and the Liberals would have a presence “barely bigger” than the cross-bench of 12 independents and minor parties when parliament sits. – Reuters

Cannes Film Festival General Delegate Thierry Fremaux (right) and German president of the

festival Iris Knobloch

congratulate Washington. – AFPPIC

Red carpet clash dampens Washington’s award CANNES: Hollywood star Denzel Washington had a tense exchange with a photographer before he received a surprise honorary award at the Cannes film festival on Monday. pointed his finger at him and appeared to say “Stop it” a number of times, videos showed. But despite the awkward incident, Washington’s mood was no doubt lifted by the rave reviews of him and Lee’s film.

Washington, festival director Thierry Fremaux introduced a montage of Washington’s memorable performances including in Malcolm X and Mo’ Better Blues , both directed by Lee. Clips were also shown from Glory , which earned him an Oscar for best supporting actor in 1989, and Training Day , for which he won best actor in 2002. The cast of Highest 2 Lowest put on a show on the Cannes red carpet, with Spike Lee in an orange pinstripe suit, round glasses and an orange-and-blue hat, and A$AP Rocky showing off a gold dental piece. Although Cannes usually hands out honorary awards in dedicated ceremonies, it is not unusual for actors to receive them unexpectedly as happened with Harrison Ford at the premiere of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny in 2023. – AFP

Washington, 70, was at the festival for the first time for the premiere of his latest film with New York director Spike Lee, Highest 2 Lowest. The two-time Oscar-winning actor was presented with an honorary Palme d’Or before the screening, where co-star A$AP Rocky and his partner Rihanna were among the VIPs. “It’s a total surprise. I’m so emotional,” Washington said. Earlier the veteran actor appeared to have a testy encounter with a photographer on the red carpet. The photographer appeared to grab the actor by the arm as he posed in front of a bank of cameras. Washington shook him off and then

Loosely adapted from a Japanese master Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic, High and Low , the Hollywood Reporter said the film has “wit, high style and kinetic energy to burn”. The Guardian praised Washington’s “magnificent form” in the movie, saying he played a music mogul with “grinning monarchical assurance”. A$AP Rocky plays alongside Washington in Highest 2 Lowest , extending an acting career that includes If I Had Legs I’d Kick You by Mary Bronstein, which was shown at the Berlin film festival in February. Before handing over the prize to