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No. 8815 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

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Including rent and operating costs, an instant shutdown could result in over RM60,000 in immediate losses per outlet, said a vape retailer. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Vape traders getting jitters

Outright and sudden ban on e-cigarette material would cause tens of thousands of ringgit worth of merchandise to ‘vaporise’ at each outlet, affecting not only businesses but also livelihood of those employed in niche industry. O m o ‘v o t

INSIDE

Suhakam: Systemic weaknesses continue to stymie anti-trafficking efforts.

M’sia supports June 14 Thai-Cambodia peace talks: Anwar

Poor financial literacy, ease of digital payments causing youths to overspend.

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NATIONAL 2 ON SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2025 S’gor Ruler laments rise in haj scams

Royal Office Facebook page yesterday. His Royal Highness and the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin also extended Hari Raya Aidiladha greetings to Muslims across Malaysia in the post. Sultan Sharafuddin called on Muslims to uphold the sanctity of the haj by ensuring that all arrangements are made through licensed and recognised agents and companies authorised by the authorities to manage haj and umrah affairs. Their Royal Highnesses prayed that Malaysian pilgrims would be granted a mabrur haj and return home safely. – Bernama

SHAH ALAM: The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has expressed sadness and disappointment over the rise in fraudulent haj travel packages affecting Muslims in the country. His Royal Highness said it was especially disheartening that those exploiting the situation were Muslims themselves, who were willing to deceive their fellow believers for personal gain. The Sultan decreed that stern action be taken against any individual or travel agency offering haj packages that take advantage of and deceive Muslims. Sultan Sharafuddin made the remarks in a post on the Selangor

Sultan Sharafuddin performing the solat sunat Aidiladha at Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, in Shah Alam yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

M’sia backs Thai-Cambodia border dispute measures

Ministers extend festive greetings KUALA LUMPUR: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Aidiladha underscores the spiritual essence of Islam and reinforces the values of sacrifice, sincerity and submission to Allah’s will. He expressed hope that Aidiladha would deepen faith, strengthen love and help build a more united, peaceful and prosperous Malaysian society. “May every sacrifice we make, big or small, be a means to draw closer to His pleasure. For those returning to their hometowns for the celebration, please drive carefully and patiently. Cherish this festive time with your loved ones to foster unity and strengthen bonds of kinship,” he said in a post on X. He also invited fellow Malaysians who do not celebrate Aidiladha to embrace the spirit of unity in diversity by visiting and connecting with one another, emphasising that Aidiladha is not only a celebration of sacrifice for Muslims, but also a reflection of compassion and togetherness for all Malaysians. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said in a post on X that Aidiladha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of sacrifice, sincerity and obedience to Allah SWT. “It immortalises a story filled with valuable lessons, when Prophet Ibrahim A.S. was willing to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail A.S. out of obedience to the command of Allah SWT. In His mercy, Allah SWT replaced the sacrifice with an animal, symbolising His love for those who are obedient servants. “May this Aidiladha nourish the spirit of sacrifice and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among all people. Let us celebrate with gratitude and humility.” Also extending their Aidiladha greetings on their respective social media accounts were Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. – Bernama

Several initiatives taken, including agreeing to discuss issue through Joint Boundary Commission on June 14 in Phnom Penh, says Anwar

The Yang di-Pertuan Muda of Terengganu Tengku Muhammad Ismail Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, accompanied by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar and other state leaders, performed the prayers at Masjid Al-Muktafi Billah Shah. The Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, accompanied by Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, State Secretary Tan Sri Dr Azmi Rohani and state executive councillors, performed the solat sunat Aidiladha at Masjid Sultan Iskandar, Bandar Datuk Onn. The Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir and the Tunku Ampuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud performed the prayers at Masjid Diraja Tuanku Munawir, Kuala Pilah. phone conversation on Friday. She said Anwar had expressed readiness to assist both sides in resolving the dispute. “Thank you, PM Anwar Ibrahim, for the call this afternoon to discuss the Thai-Cambodia border situation and to express readiness to help both sides to resolve the matter. “I reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to a peaceful resolution through existing bilateral mechanisms, while safeguarding our sovereignty in accordance with international law,” she said in a post on her official X account on Friday. Malaysia as the current Asean chair, is understood to be closely monitoring developments on the border issue. On Friday, Paetongtarn announced that Thailand had established a special task force to address security concerns along its border with Cambodia. She said the army had been assigned to coordinate operations and maintain readiness to respond to any development, prioritising the protection of sovereignty while safeguarding international relations to ensure national security.

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia supports the measures taken by Thailand and Cambodia in addressing the border dispute involving both countries, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. “I spoke with both the prime ministers. They have taken several measures that we support, namely the June 14 talks regarding the Thailand Cambodia border dispute. “I’m ready to follow and provide the cooperation required. So far, both governments have taken the stance of continuing negotiations amicably,” he said after performing the solat sunat Aidiladha with about 15,000 congregants at Masjid Putra yesterday. On May 28, Thai and Cambodian troops were involved in a brief skirmish in Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani province and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province, which reportedly resulted in the death of

a Cambodian soldier. Cambodia has since announced its intention to bring the border dispute to the International Court of Justice. Thailand has reportedly reiterated its commitment to resolving the issue peacefully in accordance with international law as well as existing agreements and memoranda with Cambodia. Following the tension, the two neighbours have agreed to discuss the issue through the Joint Boundary Commission scheduled to be held in Phnom Penh on June 14. This is expected to be a crucial step towards a peaceful long-term resolution between the two Asean neighbouring countries, Bernama reported. Meanwhile in Bangkok, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said she had discussed the Thai-Cambodia border situation with Anwar during a

Aidiladha celebrated with festive spirit nationwide KUALA LUMPUR: Muslims nationwide celebrated Hari Raya Aidiladha with grateful hearts as thousands of congregants, including leaders, filled mosques to perform Aidiladha prayers yesterday. In Kedah, the Sultan of Kedah Al-Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah performed Aidiladha prayers at Masjid Albukhary in Alor Setar with about 2,000 congregants, including Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and State Secretary Datuk Seri Norizan Khazali. Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud, performed Aidiladha prayers at Masjid Muhammadi in Kota Bharu.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, together with about 15,000 congregants, performed the solat sunat Hari Raya Aidiladha at Masjid Putra, Putrajaya, with the mosque’s Grand Imam Dr Muhamad Zakuwa Rodzali delivering the sermon titled Korban dan Semangat Kebersamaan . In Selangor, the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah performed the s olat sunat Aidiladha with more than 10,000 congregants at Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, which was also attended by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. Also in attendance was the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.

In Perlis, the Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail performed the solat sunat Aidiladha at Dataran Istiadat, Istana Arau in Arau. Perlis Menteri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli said Aidiladha teaches the meaning of true sacrifice, sincerity and obedience to Allah SWT, Bernama reported. Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah performed Aidiladha prayers with over 5,000 congregants at the Penang State Mosque. The Tengku Mahkota of Kelantan Tengku Muhammad Fakhry Petra, accompanied by

NATIONAL 3 ON SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2025

Emotional spending habit trapping youths in debt

KUALA Communications Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has clarified that its collection of mobile phone data (MPD) from mobile network operators does not involve access to, processing or disclosure of personally identifiable information (PII). The clarification follows recent media reports questioning the initiative. In a statement, MCMC explained that MPD is used strictly to generate official statistics to support evidence-based policymaking in two key sectors – ICT and tourism. For the ICT sector, the data supports granular statistics such as mobile broadband subscription rates and penetration levels across various administrative divisions, including states, districts, parliamentary constituencies, state assembly areas and local councils. In the tourism sector, MPD helps estimate indicators such as the number of visitors and domestic trips. “The MPD data requested from mobile network operators is anonymised and contains no PII. “Operators may either process the data within their secure environment and submit anonymised, aggregated output to MCMC, or if they lack in-house processing capabilities, send the anonymised data to MCMC for processing. “In both cases, no individual subscriber can be identified through the data collected,” it added. MCMC said the use of MPD as a national statistical source is a government initiative aimed at improving the quality and timeliness of data for policy and planning. The project is being developed in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union and the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science. Over the past two years, MCMC engaged extensively with operators to ensure a shared understanding of data requirements, processes and privacy safeguards. This included the MPD National Workshop held from Sept 2 to 5, 2024, which brought together representatives from the Statistics Department, Communications Ministry, Tourism Ministry and all major mobile operators. “This initiative aligns with international best practices and mirrors projects already implemented in countries such as Indonesia and Brazil, where anonymised telecommunications data is used to enhance national statistics while fully safeguarding user privacy,” it said. – Bernama mobile tracking project: MCMC and No personal data accessed in LUMPUR: The Malaysian

Poor financial literacy, peer pressure and ease of digital payments fuelling impulsive buys: Experts

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Young Malaysians are overspending at alarming rates, driven by rising living costs, emotional triggers and the ease of digital payments. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia psychology professor and deputy dean Dr Siti Aisyah Panatik told theSun that youths, particularly those aged 18 to 30, exhibit distinct spending patterns shaped by urbanisation, lifestyle choices and varying levels of financial literacy. On average, a student in Malaysia spends between RM1,500 and RM1,700 monthly, while a working professional spends approximately RM2,700 to RM2,900. These expenses generally cover essentials such as food, housing, utilities, transport, personal care and healthcare. She noted that risky spending is often driven by impulsivity, sensation-seeking, difficulty delaying gratification and peer comparison. “Many people also use shopping as emotional relief, commonly referred to as retail therapy,” she said. She warned that platforms such as TikTok and Instagram amplify the problem through influencer marketing, lifestyle envy and fear of missing out. “This creates a culture in which material success is equated with happiness,” she said, adding that emotional spending can be difficult to recognise. Warning signs include regretting purchases, shopping when feeling down or consistently spending beyond one’s means. She also said overspending may point to deeper mental health issues such as depression, ADHD or bipolar disorder. “Those with ADHD may act impulsively and struggle with planning, while individuals with depression might shop to boost their mood.” She added that compulsive shopping or oniomania, is now recognised as a behavioural addiction marked by repeated, uncontrollable urges to shop despite negative consequences. Proven psychological techniques, including cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness, can help individuals curb emotional spending. Aina, a 25-year-old private sector employee earning RM3,200 a month, admitted she spends over RM2,200 monthly, mostly on food deliveries, online sales and trending beauty or lifestyle items she rarely uses. “I spend RM18 on coffee every other day, RM400 on skincare and makeup I

Siti Aisyah said youths, particularly those aged 18 to 30, exhibit distinct spending patterns shaped by urbanisation, lifestyle choices and varying levels of financial literacy. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

Can), the highlight of the 61st NYD celebration will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who will also present the 2025 National Premier Youth Award on June 14. The theme reflects the confidence, capability and competitiveness of today’s youths in navigating modern-day challenges, particularly in the digital age. It also aligns with the Madani government’s commitment to youth and just 37% knew how insurance premiums work.” Walker emphasised that financial education should begin early – ideally before the age of seven – when core money attitudes start to form. “Parents play a crucial role by modelling habits such as saving, comparing prices and delaying gratification.” She said Finco promotes practical steps such as tracking monthly expenses, pausing before impulse purchases, recognising emotional triggers and setting aside small amounts for treats to avoid larger splurges. “Teachers must also be equipped to teach financial literacy, especially in the context of digital finance and scams.” To support this, Finco launched the Train-the-Trainers programme in 2024 with the Financial Education Network and the Education Ministry. The initiative aims to train over 10,000 teachers, particularly those working with B40 communities, to help students build financial confidence. “Recognising your financial habits and seeking help – whether from banks, credit card providers or agencies such as the Credit Counselling and Debt Management Agency – can be a powerful first step towards lasting change,” she added.

haven’t even opened, and way too much on things just because they are viral online.” By month’s end, she barely has RM50 left to save. “I keep telling myself I’ll do better next month, but the cycle just repeats. I know I’m living beyond my means but it’s hard to stop when spending feels so easy.” A recent study by the Financial Industry Collective Outreach (Finco) found that poor financial literacy is leaving youths vulnerable to impulse spending and short term gratification. Finco chief executive Clare Walker explained that the convenience of digital financial services creates a “painless” experience that fuels unhealthy habits, particularly among teens. According to its Money SENse 2023 survey, 75% of students aged 16 to 19 have only low to moderate financial knowledge, limiting their ability to make sound long term decisions. “More than 65% admitted they preferred spending for instant gratification over planning for the future.” The survey also revealed that while many youths manage basic financial tasks, they struggle with more complex topics such as investment risks, insurance and income tax. “Only 40% understood investment risks

National Youth Day to highlight Asean unity KUALA LUMPUR: This year’s National Youth Day (NYD) celebration, to be held from June 13 to 15, will feature distinct Asean elements in line with Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean. young people. “Youths play a crucial role in strengthening Asean’s regional network, particularly in driving future cooperation in economy, leadership, education, technological innovation and social development.

empowerment

through

strategic

initiatives rooted in core values. The Youth and Sports Ministry, through the National Youth and Sports Department, is targeting four million visitors. In the run-up to the national event, it has activated celebrations at the grassroots level via the Semarak NYD initiative, which kicked off in 113 districts across the country on May 15. – Bernama

The NYD secretariat announced that the programme, set to take place at Dataran Merdeka, includes an Asean pavilion and Asean concert aimed at fostering regional community spirit and cultural appreciation among

“They can also serve as junior ambassadors to elevate Malaysia’s image on the global stage.” Themed “Yakin Boleh” (Believe You

NATIONAL 4 ON SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2025

Retailers raise concerns on losses over vape ban

‘Bumi quota unaffected by property rebate’ GEORGE TOWN: The offer of a 5% discount for first-time homebuyers from the Indian Muslim community in Penang does not involve units under the Bumiputera quota and does not affect any existing home ownership policies, said state executive councillor Datuk Seri S. Sundarajoo. He said the initiative is part of efforts to expand home ownership opportunities in the open market, particularly for groups with low participation rates, without affecting the rights of other communities. “This discount is being offered as a form of corporate social responsibility by developers, and does not involve any financial support or subsidy from the state government. “The state government would like to emphasise that all existing housing policies, including the Bumiputera quota and various incentives for first-time homebuyers, remain intact and will continue to be (applied).” Sundarajoo, who is in charge of housing and environment, was responding in a statement yesterday to criticism from several quarters regarding the discount. On Thursday, he announced a 5% discount incentive for the Indian Muslim community for the purchase of residential and commercial units under the Madani Home Ownership Campaign, effective June 1 this year to May 31, 2026. Sundarajoo said the initiative is an intervention to help reinvigorate the property sector following discussions and consensus among housing industry stakeholders, taking into account the growing concern over the oversupply of non-affordable units in Penang. “According to the Q4 2024 Penang Property Market Report issued by the National Property Information Centre, 2,796 residential units were identified as overhang, involving various types of properties across the state.” He said the initiative also aims to revitalise the property sector affected by rising construction and labour costs, in line with the state government’s aspiration to achieve more balanced, sustainable and inclusive development in Penang. – Bernama GRS fully prepared for state polls TUARAN: Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) is fully prepared to face the 17th state election, said its chairman Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He said GRS has conducted a series of training sessions across constituencies and state assembly areas to strengthen the coalition’s election machinery ahead of the polls. “Clearly, GRS is ready. We have established our election machinery and conducted several rounds of training in preparation. “However, discussions on seat allocations have yet to take place,“ he said after officiating at the Aidiladha sacrificial ritual at the Tuaran district police headquarters yesterday. The state legislative assembly will automatically dissolve on Nov 11, paving the way for the polls. On cooperation with Barisan Nasional for the upcoming election, Hajiji, who is also chief minister, said GRS remains open to discussions with the party’s leaders. – Bernama

people full-time.” Shahfiq Ikmal, 29, a vape shop owner in Damansara Perdana, Petaling Jaya, echoed the same concerns, stating that his shop easily carries RM30,000 worth of inventory at any given time. “We spend around RM10,000 to RM30,000 each time we restock. If the government announces a ban suddenly, thousands of ringgit are gone. And we still have to pay rent, as we have rental contracts.” Shahfiq said his shop, in operation for four years, has also taken steps to comply with regulations, such as installing window tinting, halting promotional social media posts and refusing sales to underage individuals. “We never sell to kids. Some shops nowadays will ask for ICs, but I assess people by how they look. If they seem underage, I ask their age or just turn them away. I’ve lived in this community long enough to know who’s who.” He said many vape retailers had to register under a generic “electronics” category with the Companies Commission due to the absence of a vape-specific code, complicating tax and compliance matters. He believes stronger enforcement and collaborative research would be more effective than a blanket ban. The Malaysian Vape Chamber of Commerce said it is working with relevant agencies to push for proper registration pathways for vape businesses.

‘Without transition period, outlets would lose heavily if high-value stocks remain unsold, apart from other obligations such as rent’ Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com with existing regulations.

“We pulled advertising, reduced puff limits and shut our social media. Now, it feels like we’re being left in the dark.” Muhammad Fidzree had put up the “No Below 18” signboard inside and outside his shop and also the “No Smoking” sign, stating that it was a mandatory requirement long before the law was first enforced in 2024. “The vape store itself is one of the prohibited areas to smoke or vape in. Hence, we’re obliged to put up those two signboards to ensure that we do not endorse smoking or vaping in commercial premises.” Muhammad Fidzree said he has no intention of continuing operations illegally should a ban take place. “If Selangor and Kuala Lumpur were to enforce the ban, we will not operate underground. We just need time, six months or a year, to clear our stocks.” He also pointed out that shop managers and employees could face difficulty finding alternative jobs, given how niche the vape industry is. “Most of us specialise in vape retail. Switching to electronics or fashion retail isn’t straightforward. The industry may look informal on paper, but it employs

PETALING JAYA: As the Selangor and Negeri Sembilan state governments weigh the possibility of banning vape sales, retailers say they are bracing for substantial losses if the proposal materi alises without transitional support. Muhammad Fidzree Tamin, 36, who has been managing a vape outlet in SS24, Petaling Jaya since 2016, said his retail sales alone could generate between RM100,000 and RM150,000 monthly. Should the vape ban be enforced soon, it could hurt such retailers, especially after they have procured high-value supplies. “Restocking alone costs around RM50,000. If there’s no transition period, we lose everything we’ve stocked for the month. That’s easily RM50,000 gone, just like that. “Including rent and operating costs, a sudden shutdown could result in over RM60,000 in immediate losses per outlet,” said Muhammad Fidzree. “People underestimate the scale of this industry. We’re not some underground set-up. We’ve complied

Azhar (centre) and Kampung

Raja Uda residents

during the protest in Klang. – BERNAMAPIC

Villagers demonstrate against columbarium project KLANG: Residents of Kampung Raja Uda are considering submitting a protest memorandum to the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah regarding the construction of a four-storey columbarium adjacent to their mosque. Kampung Raja Uda Federal Village Development and Security Committee chairman Azhar Ibrahim said most of the 5,000 residents in the village oppose the construction of the columbarium. “Many residents are worried that the village may become polluted with ash generated from the cremation process, particularly for homes situated less than 10m from the site,” he said after participating in a peaceful protest along Persiaran Raja Muda Musa in Port Klang on Friday. The protest saw dozens of villagers expressing their opposition to the construction of the columbarium.

Council regarding the planned project on a one-hectare plot of private land. He added that the villagers want the construction of the columbarium cancelled to ensure the comfort of residents, especially Muslims. Kampung Raja Uda Mosque imam Mohd Bazaireen Baharuddin said the mosque management has expressed regret over the proposal to build the columbarium. “I am concerned that once the columbarium begins operating, it will host many religious ceremonies.” – Bernama

Azhar said in the last two days, residents have submitted over 300 protest notices online to the Klang Royal City

He said there were no discussions with residents about the project and they only became aware of it two weeks ago.

NATIONAL 5 ON SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2025

Three dead, two missing in Port Klang boat tragedy

Five family members killed in Jerantut crash KUANTAN: Five members of a family were killed in a collision involving a sedan and an MPV in Jalan Jerantut Feri, Jerantut, around midnight on Friday. Jerantut district police chief Supt Zukri Muhammad confirmed the victims were the driver of the sedan, Mohamad Ikmal Ishak, 26, from Ulu Kinta, Perak, and his wife Nur Arfiqah Aziz Jaafar, 23. Also killed were Nur Arfiqah’s three siblings – Mohammad Zulkifli, 21, Mohamad Azizul Hakimi, 19, and Nurul Hazwani, 17 – all from Bota, Perak. The incident occurred when the MPV, heading from Maran towards Jerantut town, collided with the sedan, which had made a sudden U-turn at an intersection. The driver and two passengers in the MPV sustained injuries. Zukri confirmed that the case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Pahang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Razam Taja Rahim said the five victims – three men and two women – were travelling in the sedan. Two were found trapped inside the car, while three others were thrown out due to the force of the impact. Firefighters used rescue equipment to extricate the trapped victims. – Bernama Engineer loses RM1.5m in investment scam BUKIT MERTAJAM: An engineer working in the Middle East lost more than RM1.5 million in an online investment scam. Penang police chief Datuk Hamzah Ahmad confirmed the 40-year-old victim lodged a report with the Central Seberang Perai district commercial crimes investigation division on Thursday. He said the victim had met a woman over the phone in November last year and entered into a relationship with her before she introduced him to an investment scheme called Golden Crimson, which promised lucrative returns. “The man registered through a website link and a customer service number provided by the woman. He first invested RM90,510 and received returns of RM108,611,” Hamzah said in a statement. Convinced by the returns, the victim made 103 transactions to 31 different accounts between Dec 2 and March 8, totalling RM1,532,563. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Police have detained the mother and uncle of a four-year-old boy who died after reportedly falling from the 30th floor of an apartment in Bukit Jalil. Cheras police chief ACP Aidil Bolhassan confirmed that the Indonesian nationals, aged 25 and 27, have been remanded to assist investigations under Section 31(1) of the Child Act 2001. He added that the boy’s father is Malaysian. “Based on the autopsy, the child died due to multiple injuries sustained after the fall. The cause that led to the incident is still under investigation,” he said in a statement. Police had earlier received an emergency call at 11.17am on Thursday regarding a boy who had reportedly fallen from the balcony of his home and died. – Bernama Mother, uncle held over boy’s fatal fall

support from the Marine Police Force, Fire and Rescue Department and nearby passenger boats. The capsized vessel was later towed to the floating jetty of the Selangor MMEA headquarters before the search operation was suspended around 8pm. Efforts to locate the missing couple resumed yesterday, with diving operations carried out by the fire department. A video of the incident, showing the boat being towed by another vessel, has circulated widely on social media. – Bernama

year-old son of the missing couple, and Cheu Son Hin, 50, both found in the front compartment of the boat,” he said. Also killed was Fong Yong Sen, 29, a friend of the couple. The sole survivor, Chang Yan Qin Alvin, 17, was rescued safely. The missing victims have been identified as Gan Hon Tat, 32, and his wife Careen Man, 29, both from Klang Utama. Initial investigations indicate that the boat likely lost control before capsizing. Rescue operations were launched at 5.16pm following a distress report, with

SHAH ALAM: Three people, including a child, died after a boat capsized in the waters off Tanjung Harapan, Port Klang on Friday. Selangor Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director Maritime Captain Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh said the incident occurred at about 5pm and involved six locals aged between three and 50. Two other victims, a married couple, remain missing, while another individual was rescued by fishermen. “The deceased are Darren Gan, a three

‘Systemic failures persist in tackling human trafficking’

Lack of accountability and weak enforcement continue nearly decade after discovery of Wang Kelian mass graves, says Suhakam

Ű BY T. C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

GEORGE TOWN: Nearly a decade after the discovery of mass graves in Wang Kelian shocked the nation, the Human Rights Commission has warned that sys temic weaknesses continue to under mine the country’s anti-trafficking efforts. Its vice-chairman Tengku Mohamed Fauzi Tengku Abdul Hamid described Malaysia’s unresolved institutional failures as a source of human suffering and urged concrete action. “The souls buried in Wang Kelian cry not just for remembrance, but also for accountability,” he said during a keynote address at the launch of Mass Graves , a book by veteran journalist Datuk Arulldas Sinnappan documenting the 2015 tragedy. The book chronicles the discovery of 139 graves across 28 abandoned human trafficking camps near the Malaysia– Thailand border in Perlis. Each grave was believed to contain three to four bodies, many wrapped in white cloth in accordance with Muslim burial traditions. Victims were reportedly starved and tortured. Arulldas, who uncovered the graves after a tip-off, details the discovery of remains believed to belong to Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals trafficked and held in jungle camps. A Royal Commission of Inquiry (RCI) held in 2019 found evidence of serious negligence in border monitoring but did not implicate any Malaysian officials in trafficking operations. The report was initially classified under the Official Secrets Act, with limited sections made public in 2022 before being taken down. The RCI confirmed that Malaysian authorities located the trafficking camps in January 2015, but exhumation and public disclosure only occurred in May. During that gap, a senior police officer allegedly ordered the site destroyed, raising concerns about obstruction of justice. Still, the RCI concluded there was no proof of enforcement or civil servant involvement, a finding still questioned by rights groups. While Tengku Mohamed Fauzi did not directly dispute the RCI’s findings, he stressed that impunity and inaction

Tengku Mohamed Fauzi and Arulldas during the launch of the book. – T. C. KHOR/THESUN

He noted ongoing challenges, including language barriers in detention centres, a shortage of medical personnel in shelters and understaffing in the Labour Department. It recommended assigning medical officers to all shelters to provide health screenings and basic care. It also urged the government to boost staffing at the Labour Department to improve enforcement in rural sectors such as plantations and factories. Under Section 4(2)(d) of the Human Rights Commission Act, the commission is empowered to carry out both routine and complaint-based inspections of detention centres, shelters, plantations and factories. These visits include interviews with detainees and reviews of healthcare services, infrastructure, and inter agency coordination. Tengku Mohamed Fauzi also called for detention centres to comply with the United Nations’ Mandela Rules, which set minimum standards for the treatment of prisoners. “Let us ensure that Malaysia does not become a silent witness to impunity. Let us be a nation that confronts its past with honesty and forges a future where human dignity is upheld for all.”

remain pressing issues. He highlighted the joint commission– Fortify Rights report “Sold Like Fish”, which described the 2012-2015 crimes as a “widespread and systematic attack on civilian populations” and possibly crimes against humanity under international law. “Survivors were forced to pay up to RM7,000 for their release or face torture, or death. Eyewitnesses reported complicity by officials in transporting Rohingya captives from state custody directly into the hands of traffickers,” he said. Beyond Wang Kelian, the commission has continued to receive fresh complaints. From 2020 to 2024, 22 trafficking related reports were lodged. Victims, including women, were deceived into working in entertainment venues, while children were forced into plantation labour. Although improvements have been made – such as the development of shelter standard operating procedures, educational programmes for children, and strengthened grassroots enforcement in Sabah and Sarawak – Tengku Mohamed Fauzi highlighted persistent structural problems.

NATIONAL 6 ON SUNDAY JUNE 8, 2025

Modern challenges of adult bonds

manage to stay in touch, many friendships fade as new routines and responsibilities take precedence. “Technology, while beneficial, could also be a double-edged sword. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram and TikTok help adults stay connected. “However, the nature of these interactions can sometimes feel performative or superficial, depending on how individuals engage with them,” he said, adding that forming new friendships in adulthood is also a growing challenge. “Once people enter the workforce or take on family responsibilities, their social circles often shrink.” Adults may also become more selective in choosing friends, seeking those who share similar values or lifestyles. “The absence of meaningful friendships in adulthood could negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of loneliness, stress and depression. Friendship offers emotional support and a sense of belonging, both of which are essential for psychological resilience.”

Social media, career demands and marriage tend to reduce capacity of connections Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com society of today.

PETALING JAYA: While the phrase “best friends forever” (BFF) is as commonly used by adults as teenagers, its meaning becomes more nuanced and sometimes bittersweet with age. What once symbolised endless laughter, shared secrets and unwavering loyalty gradually transforms into fleeting messages, occasional catch-ups and friendships shaped more by convenience than connection. As people move into their 30s and 40s, life becomes increasingly occupied with careers, marriage, children and caring for aging parents, leaving little space for the deep, spontaneous bonds of youth. For many, the once-cherished ideal of a lifelong BFF evolves into something more practical and at times, more distant. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia senior lecturer in anthropology and sociology Dr Velan Kunjuraman said the nature of friendship has shifted in the fast-paced, globalised

Speaking in conjunction with World Best Friends Day today, Velan said adult relationships in Malaysia have become increasingly situational and why the longing for meaningful connection still runs deep. “While Malaysian adults in their 30s or 40s may refer to someone as a ‘best friend,’ in reality, many of these relationships have become more superficial,” he said, adding that adult friendships are no longer defined by constant interaction or physical presence, as they were in youth. “The concept of a BFF evolves with age. It depends greatly on the personality, lifestyle and values of a person.” Velan said a major factor behind this change is the growing weight of adult responsibilities. “Friendships in adulthood are influenced by multiple factors – career demands, business networks, entertainment preferences and

With advancing age, youthful interactions may fade into occasional meet-ups and brief phone conversations. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

influence of collectivist culture in Malaysia, especially on women, adding that historically, cultural expectations place a heavy domestic burden on women, limiting their social interactions beyond the household. On the impact of migration for work, study or marriage, Velan acknowledged that such transitions could disrupt longstanding friendships. “When women move into the household of their husband, cultural expectations may make it hard to maintain connections.” Velan said while some

emotional support needs.” While personal values play a role in shaping friendships, responsibilities such as marriage and parenthood often reduce the time and emotional capacity available for maintaining close social ties. “Sometimes, these obligations create barriers to sustaining long-term friendships.” Social connections are increasingly built around proximity and convenience, such as relationships with co workers, neighbours or members of local communities. Velan also highlighted the

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SYMBOL OF PATRIOTISM ... Students of Sekolah Kebangsaan Convent Jalan Peel show their Jalur Gemilang badge yesterday at the launch of Education Ministry’s initiative to instil patriotic spirit in young Malaysians. – A D AM AMIR HAMZAH/THE SUN