30/06/2025

First page 1 Next page Last page

Report on — page 6

’Reward of lifetime’ for decade of hard work, tears and sweat National Youth Icon award fitting recognition for 31-year-old’s dedicated volunteerism, youth empowerment and social impact initiatives.

Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: lifestyle@thesundaily.com Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: advertise@thesundaily.com

MONDAY JUNE 30, 2025

SCAN ME

RM1

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

Hights of fancy Zeroing in on tech giants’ climate pledges –P22

TUESDAY Family and parenting

WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

FRIDAY Travel and leisure

SATURDAY Food and beverage

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

SCAN ME No. 8837 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

– 123RFPIC

p 23 OpenAI to introduce productivity tools

p 24 Deezer clamps down on fake tunes

p 25 Emotionally heavy journey with Elio

Report on — page 3 Experts call for stricter surveillance procedure by authorities and installation of equipment to identify violators on North-South Expressway, NKVE, Elite and DUKE highways. Gaps in peak-hour ban on trucks

Volunteers comprising representatives from GLCs, private corporations, NGOs and media organisations packing the collected trash for disposal at the main venue of the event at Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong yesterday. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/ THESUN

Move suggests party relatively stable and open to bringing back senior figure who still holds grassroots support, says analyst. Motion to lift Hishammuddin suspension seen as test for Umno

Over 8,000 Malaysians walk, jog and pick up rubbish in nationwide clean-up event organised by Tzu Chi Malaysia to celebrate its 30th anniversary of environmental advocacy. Public rallies around ‘Go Green, Go Plogging’ campaign

Report on — page 4

Report on — page 2

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

ON FACEBOOK

Malaysian Paper

/thesundaily /

Guessing game over return of Hishammuddin to Umno

Govt urged to steer Asean beyond economic output

Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Ű BY HASHINI KAVISHTRI KANNAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o ‘Re-entry could boost party position in unity govt, while move would be quashed if seen as threat to some factions’

PETALING JAYA: Renowned humanitarian and Mercy Malaysia founder Tan Sri Dr Jemilah Mahmood (pic) has urged Malaysia to use its Asean chairmanship as a turning point not just for the region’s economic ambitions but to also redefine progress through the lens of genuine well-being and planetary health. Speaking on “The Game of

PETALING JAYA: As talk of reinstating Sembrong MP Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein into Umno gains traction, analysts are divided on what the move could mean for the internal stability and public image of the party, although they agree it would be a crucial test of the confidence in the leadership. Although the push to lift Hishammuddin’s suspension came from his home division, political observers suggest it may reflect broader undercurrents within the party rather than just local sentiment. International Islamic University Malaysia political analyst Dr Syaza Shukri said the move, while significant, should not be overinterpreted. “The motion came from his division, so it doesn’t necessarily reflect a widespread shift in sentiment,” she told theSun . “But it does suggest that Umno is relatively stable now and may be open to bringing back a senior figure who still holds grassroots support.” She said Hishammuddin, currently serving as an MP, remains a familiar figure within Umno’s ranks. “If they accept Hishammuddin, it could strengthen the party. His suspension was more of a reactionary move by the president during the chaotic post-GE15 period. “He may have been divisive then, but he now appears to understand where the party stands – if he actually wants to return,” she added. Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was reported to have deferred the decision on lifting Hishammuddin’s suspension to the party’s supreme council. Zahid said Hishammuddin has yet to KOTA KINABALU: A total of 135 participants from Asean member states and Timor Leste attended the two-day “Roundtable Discussion: Asean Youth Mental Health 2025” event, which began on Saturday. Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh said the forum brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, including mental health experts, religious figures, policymakers, government officials, civil society representatives and youth. She added that in the Malaysian context, the forum was crucial as findings from the Malaysian Youth Mental Health Index Study 2023 indicated that the mental health of youths aged 15 to 30 remained at a moderate level. “For a serious issue like this, the government needs the involvement of all parties to come together and have discussions. In this case, we need the cooperation of medical experts, youth representatives and religious groups,” she said yesterday. Themed “Asean Youth Voice: Empowering Minds, Ensuring Well-being”, the event aims to address mental health issues among Asean youths by encouraging regional cooperation, sharing best practices and promoting inclusive efforts to raise awareness and improve access to care. – Bernama

Johor appears to be building as Hishammuddin remains influential in Sembrong and across the state. Azmi also pointed out that Hishammuddin had largely kept a low profile since his suspension, unlike other former party leaders such as Khairy Jamaluddin or Isham Jalil. Universiti Teknologi Mara political analyst Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam said the move sends an important signal to Umno’s grassroots. “Regarding the revocation or cancellation of Hishammuddin’s suspension, I believe this is a significant signal to the party grassroots,” he said. However, he cautioned that while grassroots motions carry symbolic weight, they do not guarantee outcomes. “The pressure and motions raised by grassroots members carry strong reasoning. However, any motion brought forward still carries no certainty it would be seriously considered or finalised by the party’s top leadership.” He added that party elites tend to act based on political calculations. “As we all know, the top leadership may have other objectives, often weighing the risks and benefits. If Hishammuddin is still seen as a threat to certain factions, then any such motion would likely go nowhere. “But if something is viewed as beneficial to the party, even if it wasn’t formally proposed, the top leadership could still act.” Ultimately, whether Hishammuddin makes a comeback or remains on the sidelines would hinge on political expediency and how his presence fits into the leadership’s broader strategy.

submit any appeal or apology, according to Astro Awani . “The Sembrong division’s motion will be brought to the supreme council via Johor Umno and reviewed by the political bureau,” he said, adding that the authority to decide on membership status lies with the council in the absence of a general assembly. Syaza described the situation as a political litmus test for Umno. “They’ve already lost Tengku Zafrul. Maybe it’s not a bad idea to bring back Hishammuddin. But it depends on how confident Zahid is in his leadership and whether Hishammuddin is willing to toe the party line.” If realised, Hishammuddin’s return could mark the re-emergence of Umno’s so called old guard and reinforce the party’s position as a dependable partner in the unity government, she added. “If Umno can keep itself together and remain in government, then Hishammuddin’s presence could underscore its seriousness as a coalition partner. “In this context, his return would not reshape the party ideologically but rather signal a continuation of political legacy. “Hishammuddin may have his baggage, but so do many others. His return would signal Umno returning to its roots, whatever that might mean today.” Meanwhile, Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan said the possible comeback carried strategic weight in Johor, where state elections are expected soon. He noted that support within Umno

Impossible”podcast on Friday, Jemilah stressed that gross domestic product (GDP) alone is a flawed and outdated metric of development. She said high income does not always equate to happiness or safety. “GDP alone is a bad measure of development. You have seen countries with high GDPs but very unhappy people, very unsafe. We need a well-being economics model in which everyone can live a good life with dignity and enough economic development,” she said. Jemilah, who founded Mercy Malaysia in 1999 after being moved by wartime footage from Kosovo, reflected on how humanitarian work has evolved from reactive disaster response to addressing the root causes of human vulnerability. She recounted a life-changing moment from 2000, when images of a Mozambican woman giving birth atop a mango tree during severe flooding left a lasting impression. Years later, while serving as Under Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, she visited Mozambique and discovered that the boy she was playing with was that very baby. “That was my‘aha’moment,”she said. “Have I been putting band-aids on gaping wounds? Until and unless we tackle the underlying drivers of why people are becoming so vulnerable, we can’t keep (applying) aid as a cure.” That realisation drove her deeper into planetary health, a field linking the well-being of humanity to the state of the Earth’s natural systems. Upon returning to Malaysia from Switzerland during the Covid-19 pandemic, Jemilah established the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health, envisioning it as a regional hub to address intertwined challenges such as climate change, social inequality and sustainable growth. “Asia Pacific is the most vulnerable region in the world,” she warned, urging Malaysia to lead boldly during its Asean chairmanship with real commitments to decarbonisation, halting deforestation and driving behavioural change. She highlighted Costa Rica as an inspiring example, a country that abolished its military, invested in environmental conservation and built a thriving ecotourism sector while consistently ranking among the world’s happiest nations. “I would rather live well than be extremely wealthy. You may have wealth but no health. We need to find the balance between well-being and wealth,” she said. Reflecting on over two decades in humanitarian service, from conflict zones in Iraq and Afghanistan to the 2004 tsunami in Aceh, Jemilah shared searing memories, including an ambush in Iraq that claimed the lives of her colleagues and left her needing months of therapy. “Humanitarian workers were no longer sacrosanct. International humanitarian law had been breached,” she said, describing how their clearly marked ambulance was deliberately targeted. Through it all, Jemilah emphasised the values of humility, persistence and gratitude. She said true leadership includes knowing when to step aside as she did by preparing a succession plan before stepping down from Mercy Malaysia.

Discussion on youth mental health

Yeoh with participants of the event yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025 3 August opening for Pasir Gudang Hospital JOHOR BAHRU: Hospital Pasir Gudang which was officially handed over to the Health Ministry yesterday, will begin operating in phases from Aug 1, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He said the initial phase would involve 30% of core services, including Accident and Emergency, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Paediatric Department, Bernama reported. “So far, 274 positions have been filled, and we expect to be fully operational with 1,845 staff by July 2026,” he said after the handing over ceremony of the hospital project yesterday. Also present was Public Works Department director-general Datuk Roslan Ismail. Dzulkefly said with a capacity of over 300 beds, the hospital would help reduce the workload at Johor Bahru’s two main hospitals – Hospital Sultanah Aminah (HSA) and Hospital Sultan Ismail (HSI) – particularly in handling emergency cases and stable patients. He said this was in line with Johor’s projected population growth, which was expected to reach 3.9 million by 2025, up from 3.35 million in 2010, with an annual growth rate of 2%, particularly in Johor Bahru. Dzulkefly also said Hospital Pasir Gudang was the first hospital to offer 20 on-call suites for specialist doctors as part of efforts to safeguard their welfare and ensure staff comfort. He said during its construction, which began in Sept 2020, the hospital consistently remained ahead of schedule and was never listed among delayed or ‘sick’ projects, despite the challenges posed by the movement control order. “The hospital has become a benchmark for meticulous planning and integrated implementation.” Dzulkefly said the total number of specialist hospitals in Johor now stands at eight and this was expected to ease congestion at the two main hospitals in the state capital. “For example, the waiting time for elective surgery services at HSA is expected to be reduced by 30% within the first two years.” Upsi students hurt in crash get PwD cards KEPALA BATAS: The Social Welfare Department is helping Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (Upsi) students who suffered permanent disabilities in a recent bus crash by processing their applications for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) cards. Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad said the ministry is compiling details of students who suffered long-term injuries in the June 9 crash, reaching out to them and extending related support. “The exact number of affected students is still being gathered as we are awaiting for their medical assessments,” she told reporters yesterday. Noraini, who is also Umno Wanita chief, was speaking after officiating the Kepala Batas Umno Wanita, Youth and Puteri division delegates meeting, which was also attended by Kepala Batas Umno chief and Bertam assemblyman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican. She said counselling sessions are ongoing for survivors and the families of those who died, including the family in the multipurpose vehicle (MPV) involved in the crash, as many are still traumatised by the tragedy. “Ongoing psychological support is crucial, especially for those grieving the loss of their loved ones. I visited a family yesterday and they are still visibly affected.” The crash occurred at Km53 of the Gerik-Jeli East-West Highway near Tasik Banding in Gerik, when a chartered bus carrying the Upsi students from Jertih, Terengganu to the Tanjung Malim campus rear-ended the MPV and overturned. Fifteen students were killed, while 33 others, including the bus driver and co-driver, as well as the driver and three passengers of the MPV were injured. – Bernama

Stricter enforcement needed on heavy vehicle restrictions

o Experts propose smart surveillance systems, cameras for licence plate recognition and CCTVs at strategic locations

Ambak

said

inadequate

on-ground encouraging

“So, in terms of a reduction in traffic congestion, the objective has been achieved.” Hairolazaman also said enforcement remains inconsistent, with some logistics companies and drivers still operating during restricted hours. “There are drivers who knowingly ignore the rule, and in some cases, they’re under pressure from their employers to meet tight delivery schedules. “On top of that, enforcement isn’t always present. Sometimes there are officers, sometimes none at all.” He proposed installing closed-circuit television cameras at strategic entry points to bolster enforcement, particularly where manpower is limited. Hairolazaman also recommended linking captured footage to enforcement databases to enable the automatic issuance of summonses which target transport companies, not just individual drivers. “The issue is, some companies treat summonses lightly, knowing there’ll be massive discounts at year-end. “That kind of practice undermines the whole objective. Once a fine is issued, there should be demerit points, followed by audits and permit suspensions if safety rules are breached.” He said the Kejara demerit system, while in place, is not being fully leveraged. “The system exists but isn’t fully implemented. Drivers with multiple violations still manage to renew their licences. “If we want behavioural change, we need to close that gap.” Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia road safety expert Professor Dr Kamaruddin

monitoring

may

non-compliance. “Some drivers may feel emboldened to flout the restriction because they sense enforcement is inconsistent. “Without frequent or visible monitoring, they assume the risk of getting caught is low.” To counter this, Kamaruddin suggested deploying smart surveillance systems with automatic number plate recognition technology. “We need intelligent cameras capable of licence plate recognition (LPR). “It allows for faster, more accurate detection of heavy vehicles entering restricted zones during peak hours.” He said LPR-based enforcement would allow authorities to link violations directly to logistics companies, ensuring accountability at the organisational level. “These companies are traceable. Once identified through plate recognition, summonses can be issued immediately and efficiently. “This would make enforcement more systematic – similar to how RFID (radio frequency identification) and electronic toll systems already work on our highways.” Additionally, National Road Safety council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said weak enforcement could stem from a shortage of traffic personnel. “From what I see, traffic congestion worsens by the day, and allowing heavy vehicles on highways only adds to the chaos. “There are simply too many vehicles to monitor, and we don’t have enough manpower to enforce the ban effectively.”

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Experts have called for stricter enforcement on road restrictions for heavy vehicles during peak hours, with enhanced surveillance by authorities and the use of technology to detect rule breakers. The ban, which was imposed by the Malaysian Highway Authority on Feb 19, applies to the NSE, NKVE, Elite and DUKE highways during peak hours (6.30–9.30am and 4.30–7.30pm) Mondays to Fridays, excluding public holidays. However, complaints persist that heavy vehicles continue to ply these highways during the restricted hours. Malaysian Road and Transportation Safety Association president Md Hairolazaman Muhamed Nor acknowledged the ban’s effectiveness in easing highway congestion but noted there were weaknesses in enforcing the ban. “From my observation, there’s a significant drop in travel time since the ban was enforced. A route that used to take me an hour and 30 minutes now takes less than an hour.

‘More than 60% of operators fail safety audit’ KOTA BHARU: The Road Transport Stricter enforcement of road restrictions for heavy vehicles during peak hours has been urged, as well as the use of technology to detect errant drivers. – SYED AZAHAR SYED OSMAN/THESUN

hotline numbers or the names of responsible officers on their vehicles for public complaints. “The department will submit the list of non compliant companies to the Land Public Transport Agency for further action, including possible suspension or cancellation of operating licences.” Aedy Fadly stressed that RTD will not compromise on safety and will continue to take firm enforcement action as part of efforts to enhance road safety and uphold the integrity of the national transport system. – Bernama

43 lorry operators and 42 tour and express bus operators,” he said after attending RTD’s Setia Khas assembly yesterday. Among the key violations were the failure to appoint occupational safety and health officers, absence of GPS devices in all vehicles. Many companies also failed to record drivers’ working hours, which must not exceed eight hours a day, and did not ensure a minimum 30-minute break after every four hours of driving. He added that some companies had no safety action plans in place and did not display

Department (RTD) has found that 64% of commercial vehicle operators audited during the Special Operation on Safety Audit System Guidelines failed to meet mandatory safety requirements. Its director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the nationwide operation, which began on June 23, involved audits on 133 companies operating commercial vehicles. Of these, 85 companies failed to comply with the guidelines, while only 48 passed. “The non-compliant companies comprised

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

READ OUR

HERE

Malaysian Paper

/thesun

Thousands join nationwide plogging initiative

Kelantan DOE intensifies enforcement against pollution

Plantation owners welcome campaign to stabilise prices JOHOR BAHRU: Pineapple growers say the “Buy Malaysian Goods” campaign themed Jom Beli Lokal (Let’s Buy Local), could help stabilise market prices and ensure steady demand for local agricultural produce. Samarahan, Sarawak, pineapple grower Mohd Nasry Mohd Nasir, 38, said the initiative also promises stronger market assurance for farmers, provided consumers continue to support local products. He added that the campaign would encourage greater demand for the various local pineapple varieties. “This initiative is very good overall. It helps boost farmers’ income while highlighting the quality of our pineapples, which are on par with those from overseas,” he told Bernama when met at the International Pineapple Industry Seminar on Saturday. Nasry, who has managed his family’s pineapple farm for the past three years on over 100 acres, added that the campaign could also reduce reliance on middlemen if implemented over the long term. “In Sarawak, for example, the Moris pineapple variety is relatively cheaper, with market prices at about RM10 for three fruits, but when sold to middlemen, the price drops to about RM2.50 each. “Some middlemen resell them at RM10 for just two fruits, so this campaign may help reduce our dependence on them and allow buyers to purchase directly from us at better prices,” he said. Meanwhile, Johor-based pineapple grower Mohd Zulafiq Nordin, 38, believes the initiative could open broader market access for small and medium-scale farmers, including supermarkets and online sales platforms. He said it would also help increase sales of lower-grade pineapples that are still of good quality. He added that for projects subjected to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), a total of 78 field enforcement visits were conducted, with 15 follow-up actions taken against projects that failed to comply with EIA approval conditions. JELI: The Kelantan Department of Environment (DOE) has conducted 183 enforcement visits to factories across the state this year, resulting in the issuance of 13 compound for environmental violations. Its director Wan Aminordin Wan Kamarudin said enforcement was also carried out on mobile pollution sources, such as motor vehicles, with 16 operations conducted and 18 investigation papers opened. “Kelantan DOE also received 128 complaints related to environmental pollution, which led to nine compounds being issued against offenders,” he told Bernama. He was speaking at the closing ceremony of the 4Xplore Teroka Alam: Legasi Di Bumi Kita event in conjunction with the state-level World Environment Day celebration at Gunung Reng. Wan Aminordin said the department has intensified efforts to monitor and enforce regulations on various pollution sources in the state.

o Tzu Chi Malaysia 30th anniversary event sees over 8,000 participants unite to pick up litter and promote environmental care

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: In a powerful display of environmental consciousness, thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life came together yesterday for a nationwide plogging event, held in celebration of Tzu Chi Malaysia’s 30th anniversary of environmental advocacy. The event, held under the banner of the “Go Green, Go Plogging” campaign, combined exercise with environmental care. Plogging refers to jogging while picking up litter, turning an ordinary workout into a community activity. Spanning more than 50 locations across the Klang Valley, Pahang, Sabah and Sarawak, the campaign marked the largest plogging initiative ever organised by Tzu Chi Malaysia. Nationwide, more than 8,000 participants took part, collecting rubbish while walking or jogging to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and civic responsibility. The main venue at the Tzu Chi Jing Si Hall in Kepong saw about 1,000 participants, including representatives from GLCs, private corporations, NGOs and media organisations. Berjaya Corporation founder and Tzu Chi commissioner Tan Sri Vincent Tan, who took part in the clean-up, commended the initiative and called for more regular community involvement. “This is a very good event and I think it should be done more often, ideally once a week in different parts of the city. “It shouldn’t be organised by Tzu Chi alone. Every group, religious, civic or corporate, should get involved. “If 52 organisations each hosted one clean-up a year, we would have a cleaner Kuala Lumpur every week,” he said after the event. Tan also voiced concern over the large

Tan (left) taking part in the clean-up initiative. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

but imagine the collective impact if we all did it consistently, not just today but as a way of life,” she said. She also quoted Tzu Chi founder Dharma Master Cheng Yen: “The Earth is like our mother, she carries and nurtures all beings. We should cherish her with a grateful heart.” Also present were BCorp joint CEO Vivienne Cheng Chi Fan, Top Glove chairman Tan Sri Lim Wee Chai, Bukit Lanjan assemblywoman Pua Pei Ling, Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Josephine Tien and Southern Score managing director Tan Sri Gan Yu Chai. Among the corporate supporters were Berjaya Group, Public Bank, Top Glove, Sunway Group, Nirvana, Radium Development Berhad, Southern Score Builders Berhad and Techsaltants. Tzu Chi Malaysia currently operates 154 recycling centres and 776 community-based recycling points nationwide, reflecting a deep rooted commitment to sustainability at the grassroots level.

number of cigarette butts collected. “We picked up a lot of cigarette butts today. Perhaps it’s time for cigarette companies to provide proper disposal containers, boxes with a section to stub out and store the butts that can be placed in public areas. “Everyone needs to take responsibility, not just the companies but individuals as well. Smokers should do their part to dispose of their cigarette butts properly instead of leaving them scattered everywhere,” he said. Tzu Chi Kuala Lumpur and Selangor deputy CEO Puan Sri Tong Siew Bee thanked all participants and supporting organisations, underscoring the significance of the movement. “This marks three decades of Tzu Chi’s environmental journey in Malaysia. For 30 years, we have worked with local communities to protect Earth through education, advocacy and action. “At Tzu Chi, we believe that every small action creates a ripple of goodness. Picking up just one piece of litter may seem insignificant,

Pineapple waste industry set for boost with collection kiosks JOHOR BAHRU: The Malaysian Pineapple Industry Board is formulating a comprehensive plan to strengthen the country’s pineapple waste industry, with the proposed establishment of five pineapple waste processing centres (PWPC) and 50 waste collection kiosks nationwide. operations in Rompin, Pahang last year and is equipped with modern machinery, including harvesters, crushers, extruders and dryers, with capacity to process between one and three tonnes of waste daily. Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. According to data from the board, each acre of pineapple plantation could generate up to 51 tonnes of waste.

It is estimated that about two million tonnes of pineapple waste are produced annually, based on the current nationwide plantation area of 18,664ha. “We see immense potential in this industry, not only economically but also in terms of sustainability and optimal resource utilisation. “By capitalising on the three-stage harvesting concept and the development of diverse, high-value products, the estimated value per pineapple plant is between RM30 and RM50,” he added. The inaugural Malaysian Pineapple Day celebration, themed “Nanas Kita Kebanggaan Negara”, held from June 27 until yesterday, aims to promote pineapple as a key national crop and attract youth interest in modern agriculture. – Bernama

On the waste collection kiosks, Mohd Khairuzamri said they would be set up at community and smallholder levels to facilitate the sale of pineapple waste to PWPC located nearby. “These kiosks would streamline logistics and centralised waste collection, thereby accelerating the value chain process in the pineapple waste industry,” he said. Mohd Khairuzamri also highlighted that the board’s three-stage harvesting approach, covering fruit, seedlings and waste, could enhance farm efficiency and generate additional income for growers. “This is in line with the National Agrofood Policy through zero waste management initiatives and supports the United Nations

Board director-general Mohd Khairuzamri M. Salleh said the initiative is being planned through funding requested under the 13th Malaysia Plan. The five centres are expected to be built in the East Coast, and southern, northern, central and Sarawak zones to turn farm waste into a new source of income for farmers while supporting national environmental sustainability goals. “The PWPC will collect and process pineapple waste such as leaves and stems into products that include animal feed, planting base, paper pulp and compost materials,” he told Bernama at the Malaysian Pineapple Day 2025 celebration held at Angsana Mall yesterday. He said the first pilot PWPC project began

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

Two girls among three killed in boat capsize tragedy

Biker dies after being run over SEREMBAN: A motorcyclist was killed after being run over by a trailer lorry when he fell from his high-powered machine at Km254.6 of the North– South Expressway heading north on Saturday. Seremban police chief ACP Mohamad Hatta Che Din said the 51-year-old victim died at the scene due to severe head injuries. The incident occurred at about 4pm. “Initial investigations found that the victim was trying to avoid a collision with a four-wheel drive vehicle, driven by a 65-year-old man with a 54-year-old woman in the passenger seat, which had braked suddenly. “The victim, who was riding a BMW motorcycle, swerved to the right and clipped the right rear-view mirror of the vehicle before falling into the right lane and was run over by the trailer,” he said in a statement yesterday. Mohamad Hatta added that another motorcyclist riding behind the victim was unable to brake in time and also crashed into the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle and passenger, the second motorcyclist and the trailer driver were unhurt. The body was sent to the Rembau Hospital forensic department for a post-mortem. The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. He urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the investigating officer Insp Tiew Chuan Jie at 014-966 8399 or report to the nearest police station. – Bernama A search and rescue operation was launched but had to be suspended at 6.30pm due to heavy rain. It resumed yesterday morning with assistance from the Tanjung Gemok Marine Police. – Bernama Missing lecturer rescued after dive ordeal KUANTAN: A Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia lecturer, who was reported missing on Saturday while diving in the waters off Pulau Chebeh in Pulau Tioman, has been found safe. Rompin police chief Supt Sharif Shaif Mondoi said the lecturer, Eliza M. Yusup, 44, was found by a member of the public who was snorkelling near Pulau Tulai at 8.45am yesterday. “The victim is safe and reported to be in good health. She was swept away by currents at 1.4km from her original location and managed to swim to safety, arriving at Pulau Tulai 11.30pm,” he said in a statement. Eliza was later taken to the Kampung Tekek Health Clinic for further examination. Sharif Shaif said the lecturer had gone diving with nine others and an instructor at about 11am on Saturday. She was believed to have gone missing after diving alone. “The instructor searched for her when she failed to surface after about 45 minutes. When initial efforts failed, he sought help from Kampung Salang residents and alerted the police.”

JERTIH: Two girls, aged three and 10, were among three people killed when a boat capsized off Pulau Perhentian on Saturday night. Besut police chief Supt Azamuddin Ahmad @ Abu identified the deceased in the 10.30pm mishap as S. Arumugam, 40, his three-year-old daughter A. Sarrvihka and a 10-year-old relative, V. Vennpani. o Victims not wearing life jackets, while vessel operator detained after testing positive for drug abuse: Police

fatality rate to the reluctance of many sea-goers, particularly fishermen and recreational boaters, to wear life jackets. He noted that nearly 80% of sea related deaths were linked to the absence of safety equipment. Early this year, theSun reported that drowning is the second leading cause of injury related deaths among Malaysian children – only road crashes rank higher – according to Dr Selva Kumar Sivapunniam of the Malaysian Paediatric Association. Child drowning is notably prevalent during the monsoon season (Nov–March), especially in the east coast states of Terengganu and Kelantan. Between 2017 and 2021, there were 591 drowning deaths among those aged 0 to 14 – nearly 10 every month – and boys accounted for 74 % of the fatalities.

ensure the safety of tourists and comply with all regulations, particularly in the mandatory use of life jackets. Fatal incidents in Malaysian waters continue to raise concern, with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency reporting 36 deaths up to May this year. According to Maritime Air Operations division director First Admiral Mohd Tahir Khalid, 108 maritime incidents involving 251 individuals were recorded so far this year. Of these, 203 were rescued, 36 confirmed dead and 12 missing. He cautioned that if current trends persist, the death toll could exceed 100 by year-end. Last year, 226 maritime incidents were reported, involving 1,348 victims, in which 64 lost their lives and 25 are still unaccounted for. Mohd Tahir attributed the high

He said 12 others in the boat, including a six-year-old who is in critical condition, were rushed to Besut Hospital. Azamuddin told a press conference at the district police headquarters yesterday that the boat, carrying 15 passengers aged between three and 40, capsized during a storm, amid heavy rain and rough seas. He said investigations revealed none of the passengers were wearing life jackets, adding that the boat operator, a local, in his 20s, has been detained to assist with police investigation. It was also found that the operator had tested positive for drugs and has five prior records for drug-related offences. Azamuddin urged the public to prioritise safety when visiting resort beaches. Boat operators, he stressed, must

Azamuddin said the boat, carrying 15 passengers, capsized during a storm amid heavy rain and rough seas. – PIC COURTESY OF NATIONAL ANTI-DRUG AGENCY FACEBOOK PAGE

Police officer hurt in scuffle after rally KUALA LUMPUR: Police have received three reports related to an incident during a rally held in the capital on Saturday afternoon, including a scuffle that injured a police personnel. participants, began at 3.02pm outside a shopping mall along Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman before proceeding to Dataran Merdeka.

Act 1955. Sulizmie urged the public not to speculate on the incident, as it could interfere with the investigation. He also encouraged anyone with information to contact the KL police hotline at 03-2115 9999 or the Dang Wangi police headquarters control centre at 03-2600 2222. – Bernama

the situation, but a scuffle broke out between participants and officers, resulting in a minor injury to one of our personnel,” he said in a statement. An investigation paper has been opened under Section 353 of the Penal Code, as well as Sections 3(5) and 14 of the Minor Offences

At 4.30pm, a participant ignited a flare, creating thick smoke that posed a risk to the safety of all those present. “Police took measures to manage

Dang Wangi district police chief ACP Sulizmie Affendy Sulaiman said the rally, involving around 100

Two perish in five-vehicle pileup, nine injured KOTA TINGGI: Two people were killed and nine others, including a seven-month-old baby, were injured in a crash involving five vehicles near Felda Pasak along Jalan Desaru-Kota Tinggi here on Saturday. According to the Johor Fire and Rescue Department Operations Centre, an emergency call was received at 4.17pm and six firemen in an engine arrived at the scene 11 minutes later. “The crash involved five vehicles – four cars and a lorry.

Nine other victims, aged between seven months and 52 years sustained minor injuries. All had exited their vehicles before the arrival of the firemen and received initial treatment from paramedics at the scene. – Bernama

“There were 11 victims, including two men, aged 69 and 74, who were travelling in one of the cars. “They were found trapped in the vehicle and were pronounced dead at the scene,“ the operations centre said in a statement.

MONDAY | JUNE 30, 2025

Volunteer honoured for community work

o National Youth Icon award bestowed for decade of initiatives comprising 300 local and international projects

academically inclined, but all of them have shown better grades and improved self-esteem.” Despite juggling responsibilities in his family’s logistics business and serving as a Human Resources Development Corporation accredited trainer, Thashidaran remains passionate for volunteerism. “My family used to bring me to orphanages when I was younger to donate food, clothes and groceries,” he said. “Spending time with those kids made me realise that I could share my happiness with others. “The ability to bring change and the sense of satisfaction volunteerism brings are the reasons I still do what I do.” Thashidaran hopes to scale up his work in education and entrepreneurship, focusing on underserved communities and youths. “This award isn’t a personal victory, it’s a win for all youths out there striving to make a change.” “Now, I’m more fired up to reach a bigger part of the community.” On what he would say to young Malaysians dreaming of making a difference, he said: “Find your passion and seek out avenues that help you fuel it. It’s less about abundance and more about resourcefulness. “Find your why, then leverage what you already have and remember to always be kind to yourself before showing love and care to others.”

Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

service lit a spark that grew into a burning passion. Since then, Thashidaran has led more than 300 initiatives in Malaysia and beyond, including life-changing missions in Laos and Nepal. In 2018, he guided a team in Laos to teach English and entrepreneurship, rebuild schools and construct bus stops. Then in 2020, he helped lay a water pipeline in a remote Nepali village, a project that now provides clean water to more than 300 families. “They still get clean water now. I get updates from them. “That’s probably my favourite memory from everything I’ve done.” He said those experiences not only broadened his worldview but also transformed how he leads. “I’ve definitely learnt to be more grateful and to appreciate the little things in life.” “My leadership has become more inclusive. I’ve come to see the value of listening to input from all avenues. These days, I mostly empower young leaders.” For Thashidaran, youth empowerment is not just a phrase, it is also a mission lived out on football fields. He coaches more than 150

PETALING JAYA: As he stood before Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to receive the National Youth Icon 2025 award, 31-year-old Thashidaran Tharmar could hardly believe the moment was real. After more than a decade of giving his time, energy and heart to community service, youth empowerment and volunteer work, the national recognition felt like the reward of a lifetime. “It was definitely the proudest moment in my life,” he told theSun . “To know that all the hard work, tears and sweat has been noticed, I am very grateful and can’t thank my family enough for their constant support.” The Klang-born changemaker was selected from 236 nominees spanning 113 districts across 15 states, a testament to the impact he has made. His story began at Multimedia University, where he volunteered with the Indian Cultural Society to organise workshops for Tamil pupils transiting to secondary school in Dengkil, Selangor. That first step into

Thashidaran said the award was not a personal victory but a win for all youths striving to make a change. – P I C C O U RTE S Y OF THA S HI D ARA N THARMAR

“The main goal is to use football as a way to build character, discipline and self-confidence,” he said. “These students may not be

students from B40 families across four Klang Valley schools, using the sport not for trophies, but to instil hope.

only

TUESDAY APR 22, 2025

RM1

SCAN ME

Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: lifestyle@thesundaily.com

0DOD\VLDQ 3DSHU www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY ‘Be more transparent in monitoring internet quality’ Time for MCMC to adopt data-driven strategy to thoroughly investigate, validate public complaints, says expert.

TUESDAY | APR 22, 2025

Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: advertise@thesundaily.com

!! ˖ MONDAY Technology and social media

Pope Francis dies at age 88

TUESDAY Family and parenting WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

First Latin American pontiff’s death comes a day after he made his first prolonged public

SCAN ME No. 8768 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

FRIDAY Travel and leisure

Time-off for parents ¡å å êê

SATURDAY Food and beverage

appearance following a serious bout of double pneumonia.

Report on T

NGO takes 4PAWS plight to Penang govt – 1 2 3RF P I C

page 4

Report on T

Non-profit animal shelter with 700 dogs faces eviction as the land it occupies is up for sale.

page 7

Report on T

page 5

per copy

Call for Seni Citi SYMBOL OF Kebangsaan Con badge Ministry’s initiative AMA AM A

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