01/07/2025

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TUESDAY JULY 1, 2025

Hard to trace syndicates’ money trails as they flow through shell companies, underground financial networks and offshore crypto exchanges: Criminologist Fight against online gambling an uphill battle

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TUESDAY | JULY 1, 2025

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

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Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY No interference in judicial appointments: Anwar

Better parents, parents,

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SCAN ME No. 8838 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

better workers? workers? Bringing family skill set to office – P22

– 123RFPIC

p 23 Fantastical tale of feline odyssey

p 24 Lorde on her musical evolution

p 25 Sirens

Alarm over rise in fringe groups targeting varsity students Deviant movements host livestreams on social media, use accessible language to attract youths, say police.

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PM says appointments and extensions of service, including for judges, must follow procedures as outlined in Federal Constitution.

Report on investigation into the Putra Heights inferno concluded that there is no evidence of sabotage or negligence that directly caused the pipeline failure or explosion. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Police find no evidence of sabotage in Putra Heights gas pipeline fire; DOSH petroleum safety director says blast likely caused by excessive ground pressure, unstable soil and prolonged external stress. Report on — page 3 No foul play, negligence

TUESDAY | JULY 1, 2025

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Queen cherishes fond memories of Tunku Ismail

JOHOR BAHRU: Behind her royal duties and national responsibilities, Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia holds dearest the memory of one special day: the birth of her eldest son, the Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim. For Her Majesty, the day she gave birth to Tunku Mahkota Ismail 41 years ago remains vivid in her heart – a memory she lovingly shared in a heartfelt message on her eldest son’s birthday yesterday. “It was the first day of Syawal, Hari Raya Puasa . Tuanku (His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia) was visiting his aunt and other family members when he received the news that I had safely given birth to Tunku Ismail, our eldest son. “As parents, we celebrated the birth of our eldest son with immense joy and gratitude to Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala. Alhamdulillah ,” Her Majesty

would bring the game to life.” Her Majesty said. Tunku Mahkota Ismail’s deep passion for football has since been transformed into JDT’s remarkable success, reshaping the football landscape in Johor and establishing the club as one of Southeast Asia’s finest. Raja Zarith Sofiah also shared other touching memories, including the tender moment she sent her eldest son off to kindergarten for the first time. “He didn’t want me to leave, so I stood by the classroom window for as long as I was allowed,” she recalled. At the end of the post, Raja Zarith Sofiah and Sultan Ibrahim prayed for Tunku Mahkota Ismail to remain blessed with strength, wisdom and love as he continues his leadership and service to Johor and the country. – Bernama

shared in a post on Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar’s Facebook page. The post was accompanied by several cherished family photos from Tunku Mahkota Ismail’s childhood. One of the highlights of the post was Her Majesty’s fond recollection of her son’s childhood, how he would eagerly ask her to buy the latest PlayStation, with the Fifa football video game being his favourite. With a touch of humour, Raja Zarith Sofiah admitted she never imagined that childhood passion would one day take shape in real life, with Tunku Mahkota Ismail now serving as the influential owner and manager of Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) football club. “I would ask him, ‘What game is this? What does Teak (Tunku Ismail’s name of endearment) have to do?’ and he would reply, ‘Teak has to choose a football manager and pick the right players for Teak’s team.’ “I never imagined that one day, he

Raja Zarith Sofiah holds dearest the

memory of one special day, the birth of Tunku Mahkota Ismail. – THE ROYAL JOHOR FACEBOOK PIC

RM11b deployed under GEAR-uP to boost high value sectors o Finance Ministry targets RM120 billion in five years to uplift industries and people’s livelihoods

MAJOR MILESTONE ... Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Singapore’s Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow inside a new RTS train at the Singapore rail test centre in Singapore yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC ‘No interference in judicial appointments, court decisions’

PUTRAJAYA: A total of RM11 billion has been deployed under the Government linked Enterprises Activation and Reform Programme (GEAR-uP) as of June 30, less than a year since the initiative spearheaded by the Finance Ministry was launched. In a special briefing on the GEAR-uP 2025 Progress Report, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the amount forms part of the RM22 billion in domestic direct investments identified, representing 88% of the RM25 billion pledged by six major government-linked investment companies (GLICs). He said the funds are being channelled into high-growth, high-value sectors such as semiconductors, energy transition, community upliftment and talent development, Bernama reported. “The programme has also secured commitments from 34 GLICs and government-linked companies (GLCs) to provide at least a minimum monthly living wage of RM3,100 to 153,000 employees, delivering on its promise to raise the rakyat’s quality of life and lead the national agenda for wage reform. “Guided by the objectives and principles of the Madani Economy framework, GEAR uP aims to unlock RM120 billion over five years to drive socioeconomic reforms and jumpstart Malaysia’s industrial transformation,” he said. The six GLICs anchoring the programme are Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Employees Provident Fund, Permodalan Nasional Bhd, Retirement Fund (Incorporated), Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera and Lembaga Tabung Haji.

Since its launch in August 2024, the six core GLICs have channelled over RM800 million into Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, kickstarted green industrial development across 1,214 hectares in Kerian and Carey Island, and backed more than 50 Malaysian companies and funds through venture capital and private equity. Amir Hamzah said the GLICs and their network of GLCs have also awarded RM200 million in scholarships, supported 8,000 B40 youths through job placement programmes and rolled out community investments benefiting over 700,000 Malaysians nationwide. “GEAR-uP is not just about capital deployment, it is about strategic alignment. We are unlocking RM120 billion to advance future industries while lifting incomes, building capabilities and delivering on shared prosperity. This is how we translate economic reform into tangible results. “This goes beyond strengthening economic fundamentals. GEAR-uP is about uplifting the rakyat’s standard of living and nurturing regional champions in cutting edge industries, so that Malaysia can rise to new heights,” he said. Looking ahead, Amir Hamzah said GEAR-uP will expand its scope to involve over 30 GLCs under participating GLICs. Through this expansion, it targets to achieve RM100 billion in market capitalisation, deliver 7.5% shareholder returns and champion non-financial outcomes, including the implementation of living wages, growing Bumiputera enterprises and developing talent and future leaders.

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has made it clear he does not meddle in judicial affairs, from judge appointments to court rulings. He said all appointments and extensions of service, including for judges, must follow procedures outlined in the Federal Constitution. “If one understands the Constitution, then the process is clear. There’s a commission, there’s the prime minister and there’s the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. “If you look at the recent appointments, the list of candidates is submitted to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and then brought to the Conference of Rulers for discussion. “So, all these procedures must be followed,” he said during a gathering with staff from the prime minister’s department yesterday. Anwar also stressed that any appointment or extension of tenure influenced by certain groups would tarnish the integrity of the judiciary. “I believe that when institutions such as the judiciary are politicised, decisions made could give the impression of betrayal,” he said. Anwar said judicial decisions are entirely within the jurisdiction of the courts and he has never interfered in any rulings. “I’ve heard the issues being raised but I have never interfered in judicial matters. Whatever decisions are made by the courts, those are their decisions, but even that is being politicised.” Anwar also lamented the public’s tendency to interpret judicial decisions based on

political lenses. He referred to several recent high-profile cases, including those involving Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman and former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. “We must respect the judges and the decisions they make. I’ve noticed people have double standards. They support a DNAA (discharge not amounting to an acquittal) in one case but reject it in another. “We can’t be like that. We must remember to uphold the integrity of the judiciary, not follow political preferences,” he said. On June 20, the Kuala Lumpur High Court granted a DNAA to Najib in three charges involving RM27 million of SRC International Sdn Bhd funds, Bernama reported. Judge K. Muniandy allowed the defence’s application for a DNAA after the prosecution admitted it was not ready to proceed with the trial, which had been delayed since 2019. Meanwhile, on June 25, the Court of Appeal acquitted Syed Saddiq of four charges of criminal breach of trust, misuse of funds and money laundering involving Angkatan Bersatu Anak Muda funds. A three-judge panel comprising Justices Datuk Ahmad Zaidi Ibrahim, Datuk Azman Abdullah and Datuk Noorin Badaruddin allowed his appeal, overturning his November 2023 conviction by the Kuala Lumpur High Court, which had sentenced him to seven years’ jail, two strokes of the cane and a RM10 million fine.

TUESDAY | JULY 1, 2025

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Putra Heights gas blast not caused by sabotage

VEP enforcement at Johor border begins today JOHOR BAHRU: From today, Singaporean vehicles entering Malaysia without a valid Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) will face an immediate RM300 compound, as full enforcement at the Malaysia-Singapore land border kicks in. The enforcement is in line with Section 66H(7) of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) which states that it is an offence for anyone to drive a foreign-registered vehicle without a permit when entering or being present in Malaysia. According to Transport Minister Anthony Loke on June 4, the implementation of VEP is crucial not only for cross-border traffic control but also for enhancing the enforcement of road laws on foreign vehicles. Failure to comply with the requirement may result in the vehicle being barred from exiting Malaysia until the compound is settled and the VEP tag activated. All foreign vehicles entering Malaysia via the Johor Causeway and the Second Link are required to register through the portal vep.jpj.gov.my, pay a RM10 fee for the RFID VEP (radio frequency identification) sticker which is valid for five years and settle a RM20 road charge for each entry. According to information on the website – vep.jpj.gov.my – vehicles registered under the VEP system will receive a non-transferable RFID tag with a unique identification code for each vehicle. For individual private vehicle owners who have only completed pre-registration, a summons will be issued and the vehicle will not be allowed to leave Malaysia until the payment is made. For company-owned vehicles, a notice will be issued only if pre-registration has been done, while compounds will be imposed for those with no registration at all. Compounds can only be paid via cashless methods at the Road Transport Department (RTD) counters, mobile RTD trucks or online platforms such as MyEG. To date, 231,018 VEP stickers have been issued to private and company-owned vehicles from Singapore, but only 194,507 were installed and activated. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: With Malaysia’s population rapidly ageing, the government is gearing up to table the long-awaited Senior Citizens Bill in Parliament next year as part of a broader push to ramp up aged care training and strengthen safety nets for older Malaysians. Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the bill is on track, pending final talks with state authorities and industry stakeholders. “The draft is already there. We hope to submit it to the Attorney General’s Chambers by the end of this year. “If all goes well, it might be tabled this year, but realistically, it will likely have to wait until next year,” she told reporters at the Asean–Republic of Korea (ROK) Conference on Care and Support for Older Persons. Also present were her deputy Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad, ministry’s secretary-general Datuk Dr Maziah Che Yusoff and South Korean Ambassador to Asean Lee Jang-Keun. The conference aims to deepen understanding of ageing-related Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

They are: * The shoplot structures and pipeline were built in accordance with guidelines set by the Subang Jaya City Council and Petronas, including a 40-metre buffer zone from the gas line; *Excavation work for sewer lines did not directly affect the pipeline, which was buried 5.6 metres deep and located 3.5 metres from the sewer line; and *There was no construction activity or sign of sabotage at the time of the explosion. Sewer works had ended on March 30, and no abnormal gas readings were recorded prior to the blast. Levels only dropped suddenly when the explosion occurred. Hussein said police had explored possible sabotage under criminal provisions and negligence under Sections 285 and 286 of the Penal Code, related to fire and explosive materials. “In conclusion, there is no evidence of sabotage or negligence that directly caused the pipeline failure or explosion.” DOSH petroleum safety division director Husdin Che Amat said the likely cause was a combination of excessive ground pressure, unstable soil and prolonged external stress. “A technical probe was carried out with other agencies to determine the root cause of the leak near Jalan Putra Harmoni. Five pipe samples were collected between April 15 and May 8. “Analysis revealed stress lines at the pipe’s fracture points, indicating the damage built

up over time rather than being caused by a single event. “The failure stemmed from a welding joint that gave way due to tensile overload. Stretch lines along the pipe’s diameter pointed to material fatigue from repeated stress.” Husdin said metallurgical testing confirmed that long-term external pressure was a significant factor. “Poor drainage, soft soil and accumulated groundwater further weakened the pipe. The Public Works Department (PWD) found a 15.9cm displacement at the welded joint.” He also said Petronas has identified other sections of its gas pipeline network that may be vulnerable to similar issues that caused the explosion. “The agency (DOSH) has engaged with Petronas to outline the immediate and long term steps that need to be taken. “Clear directives have been issued, as the root issue has been identified. Petronas will now take proactive steps to carry out the necessary upgrades and improvements.” The Fire and Rescue Department concluded that friction between metal components of the ruptured pipeline likely ignited the gas and triggered the blast. The explosion destroyed 81 houses with structural damage exceeding 40%, partially destroyed another 81 and affected 57 without burning, while 218 houses were unaffected. “It is an important moment for Selangor to determine the necessary follow-up actions and to be proactive in the matter.” Amirudin said the state government is also open to considering legal reforms and input from the federal government to ensure transparency and to clearly communicate the investigation’s findings to the public. By HARITH KAMAL

SHAH ALAM: There is no evidence of sabotage or negligence behind the gas pipeline failure and explosion in Putra Heights on April 1, said Selangor Police Chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan. Speaking at a press conference at the Selangor state government office yesterday, Hussein said a thorough joint investigation by the police and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) had ruled out foul play. “Our focus was on contractors working on nearby shoplots and surrounding areas, including the possibility of bombs or fireworks.” Investigators interviewed 212 individuals, including victims, Petronas representatives, local council officials, developers, contractors, independent witnesses and members of the public. The investigation yielded several key findings, said Hussein. o Joint probe by police and DOSH finds no criminal act or negligence in explosion; structural stress and soil instability cited as causes Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Special committee to assess findings related to explosion SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government will form a special committee in collaboration with Petronas and other relevant agencies to propose follow-up actions, laws and regulations in response to the gas pipeline explosion. Its proposals will focus on preventive measures to ensure such incidents do not recur, he added.

“The next step involves this special committee under the state government supported by Petronas and other bodies to propose follow-up actions including legal and regulatory measures that can be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the committee will evaluate all findings and reports related to the incident.

Senior Citizens Bill set for 2026

Provident Fund on strengthening long-term financial protection for retirees. “We’ve started the conversation, but no decisions have been finalised yet. It’s a complex issue that requires careful planning.” Nancy also raised alarm over the proliferation of unlicensed elderly care centres, warning that they pose serious risks to vulnerable individuals. “When centres aren’t licensed, there’s no oversight, and we don’t know what’s happening behind closed doors. “This needs a whole-of community approach. It’s not the government’s responsibility alone.” To tackle this, she said the government has reviewed the National Policy and Plan of Action for Older Persons, which focuses on expanding access to care, improving services and upholding dignity for the elderly. The plan’s implementation is overseen by the National Advisory and Consultative Council for Older Persons. “The responsibility to uphold the dignity and wellbeing of our older persons goes beyond national duty, it is a collective Asean duty,” Nancy said.

challenges across Asean and South Korea, while exploring collaborative solutions and regional policy frameworks. Nancy stressed that the Senior Citizens Bill must be inclusive and receive buy-in from all states. “The bill isn’t just for West Malaysia. We want to make sure every state, especially Sabah and Sarawak, is on board. “There’s strong public interest in this legislation, especially from the private sector and civil society. “The industry is booming, and many want a seat at the table. That’s why we’re conducting another round of consultations.” The move comes as Malaysia approaches aged nation status by 2030, when those aged 60 and above are projected to make up at least 15.3% of the population. To meet rising care demands, Nancy said the government is working to build a self-sustaining local caregiving workforce and reduce reliance on foreign carers. “Caregiving will be more deeply integrated into the Technical and Vocational Education and Training system. “It’s something we should’ve done

Nancy (centre), accompanied Noraini and Lee visiting a booth at the ROK conference on Care and Support for Older Persons yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

recognised qualifications so they can secure better opportunities in the sector.” She also highlighted financial insecurity as a growing concern among older Malaysians, particularly with healthcare costs rising and pressure mounting on the “sandwich generation” who support both children and elderly parents. She said initial discussions have been held with the Employees

long ago; but there’s no use looking back. We need to move forward. “Caregiving is noble work, and it offers strong earning potential. Many institutions are approaching us in search of local talent.” Nancy added that the ministry has begun upskilling its own staff and plans to expand training and certification programmes to the wider public. “We want to equip people with

TUESDAY | JULY 1, 2025

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Fringe ideological movements target varsity youths

Melaka Guava rebranded as MelGuv MALACCA: The Lohan guava (GU16), a fruit synonymous with Malacca, has been rebranded as MelGuv, which is short for Melaka Guava. Malacca Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the rebranding marks a transformation and adds value to the state’s agricultural sector, especially with the growing production of MelGuv. “The fruit has a distinct flavour that is both sweet and crunchy, setting it apart from guavas grown in other regions. The largest plantation is in Pulau Gadong. “Last year, 1,139 metric tonnes of the fruit were produced over 80ha in the state,“ he told reporters after closing the Melaka Agrofest 2025 on Sunday. Also present was state Rural Development, Agriculture and Food Security committee chairman Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh. He said commercial guava cultivation in Malacca began in 2023, with annual production now exceeding 1,000 metric tonnes and continuing to grow each year. In conjunction with the three-day agrofest that began on Friday, 15,000 MelGuv fruits were distributed to visitors. Ab Rauf also reported RM1.05 million in sales and 41,842 visitors over the first two days, with attendance expected to rise on the final day. He added that the agrofest remains a vital platform to strengthen the agri-food sector, having evolved from its original form as the Farmers, Livestock Breeders and Fishermen’s Day, introduced in 1983. Looking ahead, he added that the state government is committed to enhancing food security through various initiatives, including the expansion of Permanent Food Production Parks. “ Alhamdulillah , last year, the agriculture sector was the third-largest contributor to the state’s GDP, reaching RM4.8 billion and achieving the highest growth rate of 6.5%. “This year, the federal government allocated RM10.2 million for high-impact agricultural projects, covering agro-tourism, the crop subsector and development of padi fields.” – Bernama ‘Multicultural model inspiration for national harmony’ KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s model of multicultural coexistence should serve as a national inspiration, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said. He said each group, no matter how small, contributes to the rich mosaic that makes Sabah a symbol of Malaysia’s multicultural strength. “Sabah is home to 42 distinct indigenous ethnic groups and over 200 subethnic communities, each of which preserves a unique language, heritage and worldview. “It is not just a statistic but a profound reflection of how deeply rooted harmony and respect for differences are in Sabah’s identity,“ he said in his speech at the “Lagu Kita” grand finale of the Sabah Multicultural Songwriting and Band Competition on Sunday. The competition was first conceived in June 2024 with the aim of celebrating Sabah’s rich cultural diversity and empowering young talents through the creation of music. He also said the ministry had presented a RM30,000 grant for the initiative. – Bernama

o Police warn of rising influence on students via sophisticated livestreams, call for vigilance,

emotions and pseudo-intellectual arguments to gain followers,” he said. He warned that some of the content disseminated online carries distorted interpretations, made to appear progressive or spiritually enlightened. “Jakim continues to monitor the developments closely and works in partnership with enforcement agencies, such as MCMC and state religious departments to analyse content and take action.” Radihan also emphasised the importance of ongoing awareness efforts to help students build critical thinking skills and distinguish between genuine discourse and deceptive ideology. Meanwhile, Selangor Islamic Religious Department (Jais) deputy director of operations Siti Razmah Idris said the seminar is aimed at equipping students with the tools to navigate ideological content in the digital age. “The ideas don’t just exist at the fringes anymore. They are entering students’ lives through everyday online exposure. “We need to strengthen their ability to discern, not just inform them of what’s right or wrong.” The seminar, attended by over 200 students from both public and private universities across Selangor, was jointly organised by Jais and the Selangor Islamic affairs executive council.

family were recruited during a live broadcast. They were later arrested and charged by state religious authorities. He noted that while police, in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), continue efforts to take down such content, the groups persistently re-emerge. “When one account is shut down, they just create another one. It’s a continuous process,” he said, adding that enforcement has been carried out in many states including Sarawak, Johor, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan and Pahang. “We’ve observed an upward trend in such cases over the past five years.” However, Bakari stressed that enforcement alone is not enough, urging for stronger support from civil society, student bodies and institutions of higher learning. “Students are not just targets, they are also part of the solution. We rely on them to alert us when they come across suspicious ideological activity.” During the seminar, Islamic Development Department (Jakim) research division senior assistant director Ustaz Radihan Saari said many of these movements have shifted their approach, distancing themselves from extremist labels and instead present themselves as alternative ideologies to appeal to young audiences. “They often manipulate current issues,

collaboration Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

SHAH ALAM: Authorities have raised the alarm over the increasing presence of fringe ideological movements targeting university students in Selangor, using social media as a key recruitment tool. Supt Bakari Bakar, from the federal police religious extremism division, said groups like ‘Milah Abraham’ and ‘The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light’ have been actively spreading their beliefs on platforms, such as YouTube and TikTok, to draw in students. “The groups are sophisticated. They host livestreams and use accessible language to attract youths,” he told theSun after a seminar – “Understanding Extremism Among University Students” – at Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah. Bakari cited a case in which a student and Kampung Buluh village adoption under Rela initiative KUALA BERANG: The People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) has selected Kampung Buluh here for its Madani Rela adopted village initiative, benefiting over 600 residents. In a statement on Sunday, Rela said in addition to Kampung Buluh, two schools – Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Tengku Ampuan Intan and SK Kemat – have also been adopted. It said that various projects had been planned for the development and upgrading of facilities in Kampung Buluh, involving an allocation of RM1 million. “Rela has planned various projects, including the maintenance and upgrading of drainage and sewer systems, resurfacing and widening of roads in several areas in Kampung Buluh. “Installation of floodlights and solar-powered lights in specific areas will also be carried out for the convenience and safety of residents,” the statement said. The statement added that other planned projects include upgrading community endowments, implementing soil erosion control measures, enhancing sports facilities and expanding the surau parking area. Meanwhile, Home Minister Datuk Seri

Saifuddin takes time to connect with Rela members offering free haircut services at the Madani Rela village and school adoption event at the Hulu Terengganu district multipurpose hall in Kuala Berang, Terengganu. – BERNAMAPIC

Service programme. “He also checked the implementation of approved projects, including the upgrading of the parking area at Surau An-Nur, Tanah Lot, Padang Tara, and Dataran Kejat,“ the statement said. - Bernama

Saifuddin Nasution Ismail launched the Madani Rela Adopted Village and Madani Rela Adopted Schools, the statement said. “Earlier, the minister joined villagers in a gotong-royong to repair the house of a Rela member under the Madani Rela Community

‘Labuan Corp must be facilitator of community empowerment’ LABUAN: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa has urged the Labuan Corporation (LC) to broaden its responsibilities beyond waste management, roads and drainage, and to take proactive steps as a facilitator of community empowerment. management on Sunday. Zaliha stressed for governance and integrity to be the foundational principles of local authority operations. Despite Labuan boasting the second-highest GDP per capita in Malaysia, primarily driven by the oil and gas and finance sectors, Zaliha pointed out that this prosperity has not translated into tangible benefits for ordinary residents.

production of poultry, meat, eggs and vegetables should be prioritised. She noted that the upcoming Borneo Flora Festival in Labuan is designed to generate multiplier effects in the hospitality, transportation, food and beverage and homestay sectors, ensuring economic gains reach grassroots businesses. “LC must transcend traditional administrative roles to become a dynamic catalyst for inclusive growth to ensure that Labuan’s wealth benefits all residents. – Bernama

“LC must act as a facilitator to empower the socioeconomic wellbeing of the people, including addressing food security and the high cost of living on the island,”she said after a meeting with LC’s top

She said initiatives aimed at reducing dependence on food imports by increasing local

TUESDAY | JULY 1, 2025 5 M’sian rescued after snorkelling ordeal JAKARTA: A Malaysian tourist swept away by strong currents while snorkelling off Gili Lawa Island in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara, was found safe on Sunday. In a video released by Indonesia’s national search and rescue agency Basarnas, 35-year-old Amirah Bazil was seen signalling for help from shallow waters near Gili Lawa before being assisted onto a rescue vessel. “She had been snorkelling with friends early Sunday morning when she became separated from the group due to strong currents,” said Maumere Basarnas head Fathur Rahman in a statement. A joint search and rescue (SAR) team was immediately deployed from the West Manggarai SAR Post after receiving a report of the incident at about 6.45am local time. However, before the rescue team arrived, a passing speedboat named Fenides spotted Amirah near the shoreline and transferred her to the Sea More Papua – the vessel that had hosted the diving trip. “She was found conscious, uninjured and smiling when our team reached the boat. She plans to continue her trip in the Labuan Bajo area,” Fathur added. Authorities credited the swift rescue to coordinated efforts between SAR personnel and local vessel crews operating in the area. Labuan Bajo, located within the Komodo National Park, is a renowned diving destination celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and strong ocean currents. This is the second successful rescue involving a Malaysian this month, following the safe recovery on Friday of a Malaysian climber who slipped while descending from Danau Segara Anak on Mount Rinjani in Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. – Bernama Boatman in capsize tragedy remanded BANDAR PERMAISURI: A boatman involved in the tragic accident that claimed the lives of three passengers near Pulau Perhentian on Saturday night has been remanded for three days. The remand order, effective until tomorrow, was issued by Magistrate Nurliyana Md Zukri at the Setiu magistrate’s court. It is to facilitate an investigation under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, after the 22-year-old man tested positive for drugs. In the 10.30pm incident, S. Arumugam, 40, his three-year-old daughter A. Sarrvihka and another female relative V. Vennpani, 10, died, while two others were injured, including one in critical condition. Ten other passengers survived. The victims were returning from Pulau Perhentian Kecil to Perhentian Besar when a large wave hit the boat, causing it to capsize. Besut police chief Supt Azamuddin Ahmad @ Abu said on Sunday the boatman has five drug-related records. – Bernama Boy suffers injuries after beaten by father MALACCA: An 11-year-old boy sustained head injury and bruises on his left arm after he was allegedly beaten by his father at a house in Taman Cheng Baru on Wednesday. Central Malacca police chief ACP Christopher Patit said the boy’s 38-year-old mother lodged a police report at the Tanjung Minyak police station at 9.11pm on Sunday. “The complainant, who is also a tuition teacher, said at about 10.30pm on the day of the incident, she returned home and found her son with a bandaged head. “Her husband admitted to hitting the boy, claiming the son had lied,”he said in a statement. Christopher added that the mother lodged the report to protect her son and to refer the matter to relevant authorities. – Bernama

Uphill battle to curb ‘elusive’ online gambling menace

PETALING JAYA: Despite over 173,000 pieces of harmful online content – more than half linked to illegal gambling – having being removed since January, experts said Malaysia is fighting an uphill battle against a fast-evolving cybercrime ecosystem. Criminologist Datuk Shahul Hamid Abd Rahim said illegal online gambling continues to thrive because these syndicates are well-organised and operate in separate parts, making them harder to shut down. “Each syndicate functions like a decentralised enterprise. One group handles website development, another manages payments – often via e-wallets or cryptocurrencies – while others focus on marketing or ‘customer service’,” he told theSun. o Well-organised syndicates function like decentralised enterprises, making it harder to shut down fast-evolving cybercrime: Criminologist Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

websites are adept at evading blocks. “They change domains, rotate IPs, use encryption, VPNs, proxies – whatever it takes to stay ahead. They’re constantly promoting on social media too.” He added that these sites are often gateways to more sinister activities. “They’re not just gambling hubs. They’re also conduits for phishing, malware and money laundering.” While Nor Badrul acknowledged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s efforts, he described enforcement as a game of “whack-a-mole”. “New sites emerge within hours, often hosted in jurisdictions beyond Malaysia’s legal reach. This makes takedown efforts slower and less effective,” he said. “What is more worrying is that the ease of access is feeding a deeper issue – addiction,” he added. “Gambling addiction is growing, but it’s often overlooked in enforcement narratives. We’re not just battling crime, we’re battling a public health concern.” Both Shahul Hamid and Nor Badrul agreed that while enforcement is crucial, it must be matched by deeper, longer-term reforms. “There’s no silver bullet. We need stronger cross-border cooperation, updated laws, better tech tools and public education. This is not just a policing issue, it’s systemic,” said Shahul Hamid.

The money trail becomes harder to trace as it flows through shell companies, underground financial networks like hawala and hundi and offshore crypto exchanges, he added. “You’re not just looking at gambling. You’re looking at laundering, fraud and cybercrime converging under one roof.” A 2022 survey cited by Shahul Hamid found that over 78% of 60 youths interviewed had gambled at least once, predominantly among non-Muslim communities. The trend is now spilling into unlicensed online platforms, particularly during major sports seasons. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has recently revealed that 51% of the content flagged and removed involved unauthorised gambling activities, while another 43,000 were linked to scams. Facebook was reported to carry the highest volume of flagged content, with TikTok close behind. Telegram was the least responsive in handling scam-related removals. Shahul Hamid also highlighted the role of virtual private networks (VPNs), which allow users to access foreign gambling sites that cater directly to Malaysian users and accept deposits in ringgit. “The platforms may be offshore, but the harm is local and growing,” he said. Universiti Malaya cybersecurity expert Prof Dr Nor Badrul Anuar echoed these concerns, noting that illegal gambling

Shahul Hamid said stronger cross-border cooperation, updated laws, better tech tools and public education are needed to fight online gambling. – MASRY CHE ANI / THESUN

Two Sabah reps claim trial in mining bribery case KOTA KINABALU: Two Sabah assemblymen and a businessman pleaded not guilty in the Sessions Court here yesterday to corruption charges involving mineral mining licensing in the state in 2023. Andi Muhammad Suryady, 44, who is also Sabah Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship assistant minister and MP for Kalabakan, was charged with receiving a RM150,000 bribe from Tei as an inducement to facilitate a prospecting licence application for mineral exploration in Sabah. of the same law. They face up to 20 years in jail and a fine of not less than five times the amount of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher. Deputy public prosecutors Nurul Izzati Sapifee and Rustam Sanip appeared for the prosecution.

The accused – Sindumin assemblyman Datuk Dr Yusof @ Josree Yacob, Tanjung Batu assemblyman Datuk Andi Muhammad Suryady Bandy and businessman Datuk Tei Jiann Cheing – made their pleas after separate charges were read before Judge Jason Juga. Yusof, 69, who is Qhazanah Sabah Berhad chairman, was charged with one count of receiving a RM200,000 bribe from Tei as an inducement to facilitate a prospecting licence application for mineral exploration in Sabah. The alleged offence took place at a hotel here at 2pm on March 6, 2023.

Yusof and Andi Muhammad Suryady were represented by lawyers Datuk Ram Singh, Shahlan Jufri and Ridzwandean Borhan, while Tei was represented by Edward Paul. Yusof and Andi Muhammad Suryady were each granted bail of RM50,000 with one surety, while Tei was allowed RM60,000 bail with one surety. The court also set Aug 5 for mention and ordered all the accused to surrender their passports and report to the nearest MACC office every two months. – Bernama

The alleged offence occurred at the assemblyman’s residence here at 11pm on May 12, 2023. Tei, 36, was charged with two counts of giving bribes to Yusof and Andi Muhammad Suryady at the same locations, dates and times. The two assemblymen were charged under Section 16(a)(A) of the Malaysian Anti Corruption Commission (MACC) Act 2009, while Tei was charged under Section 16(b)(A)

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Forging path for top scorers to reach university goal

Rimba Raid ‘adventure’ major boost to tourism

LENGGONG: Hosting an international sporting event such as Rimba Raid X Lenggong significantly boosts the country’s tourism industry and helps stimulate local economic growth, said Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah. The Lenggong MP said the Rimba Raid X Lenggong event, held for the second time, indirectly supports the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign through international media coverage and the participation of riders from various countries. “Rimba Raid X Lenggong features participants from Indonesia, Singapore, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Thailand, several European countries and the host nation, Malaysia. “These participants indirectly serve as ‘tourism ambassadors’, helping to promote Malaysia as a sports tourism destination to the world,”he told Bernama after officiating at the 2025 Rimba Raid X Lenggong 2025 prize presentation ceremony here on Sunday. Also present was Rimba Raid founder captain Datuk Nik Huzlan Nik Hussain. The 2025 Rimba Raid X Lenggong features six racing categories, offering opportunities for participants with different types of machinery and varying levels of experience. The categories include Class A for multi-cylinder motorcycles over 1,000cc; Class B for multi-cylinder motorcycles between 250cc and 999cc; Class C for single cylinder motorcycles between 250cc and 800cc; and Class D (adventure kapcai ), dedicated to small-engine motorcycles modified for rugged adventure use. The remaining two are Class E, for adventure scooters – a genre growing in popularity among urban riders and light adventurers – and Class F, for electric motorcycles (e-bikes), reflecting advancements in technology and sustainability in motorsports. Meanwhile, Nik Huzlan said the competition results, originally scheduled to be announced on Sunday night, had to be postponed due to technical issues. A new date will be set soon.

PETALING JAYA: A quiet but determined intervention led by a senior officer in the Prime Minister’s Department helped steer a key policy correction, opening the door for high-achieving SPM students to access the national matriculation programme. Driving this change is special functions officer to the prime minister Shanmugam Mookan, who acted promptly in response to concerns over the admissions policy. Previously, the policy disqualified students from being considered “straight A” scorers if they obtained even a single A-. As a result, many high-performing students, some with 10 or more As, were denied placement in the matriculation programme, despite government assurances that top scorers would not be left behind. Many of those affected came from underprivileged or B40 backgrounds. “This was not just about fixing an error but to ensure fairness regardless of socioeconomic background,” Shanmugam told theSun. The push for change was set in motion by two committed education volunteers – Dr S. Sanjay, 42, and Dr S. Punithan, 44, both trained medical doctors who now mentor SPM school leavers online. “Although we’re not in full-time clinical practice at the moment, we remain actively involved through health awareness campaigns, community training programmes, student mentorship and our weekly medical talk show ‘Vanakkam Doctor’ on Astro, which aims to educate the public on important health issues,” said Sanjay. o Senior officer leads intervention initiative to open door for SPM students with A- grades to access national matriculation programme Ű BY T.C. KHOR newsdesk@thesundaily.com

From left: Sanjay, Shanmugam and Punithan. – T.C. KHOR/THESUN

is a known advocate for educational equity. Together, they initiated discussions with Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, highlighting how the policy was unintentionally penalising high-performing students due to a narrow technical definition. “Nurul Izzah, who is also deeply concerned about education issues, voiced the same unease,” said Shanmugam. Following a series of consultations, the issue was eventually escalated to the Cabinet, where a final decision was made to re-examine and adjust the criteria. On June 25, the government officially announced that all students who scored 10 As or more in last year’s SPM examination, and had applied for places in the matriculation programme, will be offered admission, regardless of race or background. The Education Ministry said this includes students who obtained A- grades. The decision marked a significant policy correction, one that reintroduced inclusivity into the national education system and offered renewed hope to hundreds of deserving students, Shanmugam said. “I appreciate the transparency shown by Fadhlina, who was willing to engage with an open heart, even though the original decision was made based on technical, policy and existing system capacity factors.”

Sanjay and Punithan were approached by several affected students and their families who were confused by the rejection letters they received despite their excellent results. Drawing on their experiences working closely with affected students, they meticulously compiled detailed data, personal testimonies and case summaries, turning anecdotal grievances into a compelling evidence-based case. “Last year, they highlighted the plight of more than 50 underprivileged students, and 36 of the students managed to secure their places for matriculation after we submitted an appeal to the Education Ministry,” Shanmugam said, crediting the educators for their initiative. Building on that success, the duo returned this year with another 52 student cases. These were again supported by thorough documentation and submitted directly to Shanmugam. The results of the appeals are expected on June 30. “What they brought to me was not merely a complaint but a comprehensive picture backed by data, real-life experiences, and undeniable facts,” Shanmugam said. He took the issue forward, leveraging his position in the Prime Minister’s Office to open formal dialogue with policymakers. His next step was to engage newly appointed PKR deputy president Nurul Izzah Anwar, who

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UN conference seeking boost for development aid

poured troops into in 1950. The Dalai Lama has been lauded by his followers for his tireless campaign for greater autonomy for Tibet, a vast high-altitude plateau in China about the size of South Africa. He handed over political authority in 2011 to an exiled government chosen democratically by 130,000 Tibetans globally. He also warned that the future of his spiritual post faced an “obvious risk of vested political interests misusing the reincarnation system”. – AFP They also included garter snakes, a rhino rat snake and a Kenyan sand boa, among others. In early June, Customs officers stopped a passenger smuggling dozens of venomous vipers, also arriving from Thailand. Days later, officers stopped another traveller carrying 100 creatures, including lizards, sunbirds and tree-climbing possums. – AFP Snakes seized by India Customs again NEW DELHI: Indian Customs officers in Mumbai said they have stopped a plane passenger arriving from Thailand with a cargo of live snakes, the third such seizure this month. The passenger, who arrived on Sunday, has been arrested, the agency said in a statement, with “further investigation under way”. The live snakes included reptiles often sold in the pet trade and were largely non-venomous or with venom too weak to affect people. Lee expressed hope for Wong’s participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit to be held in South Korea’s Gyeongju later this year, while Wong wished for the summit to be successful and voiced hope for continued high-level exchanges, it added. – Bernama-Xinhua S. Korea, S’pore to elevate bilateral union SEOUL: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong spoke on the phone yesterday and agreed to elevate bilateral ties in a wide range of areas, the presidential office said, Yonhap News Agency reported. In their first phone conversation since Lee took office earlier this month, the two leaders agreed to establish a strategic partnership to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, said presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung. “They agreed to deepen strategic cooperation in a comprehensive area, including peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and future growth sectors, such as artificial intelligence and the digital sector,” the office said in a release.

States walked out. The reaffirmed commitment to UN development goals, such as eliminating poverty and hunger, promoting gender equality, and reforming tax systems and international financial institutions. The text also called on development banks to triple their lending capacity, urged lenders to ensure predictable finance for essential social spending and for more cooperation against tax evasion. Coalitions of countries will seek to spearhead initiatives in addition to the so-called “Seville Commitment”, which is not legally binding. The document shows that the world can address the financial challenges standing in the way of achieving the development goals “and that multilateralism could still work”, said Zambia’s Permanent UN Representative Chola Milambo. However, campaigners have criticised the text for lacking ambition and have rung alarm bells about rising global inequality. “Global development is desperately failing because the interests of a very wealthy few are put over those of everyone else,” said Oxfam executive director Amitabh Behar. – AFP document

Disruption to global trade from Trump’s tariffs and conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine have dealt further blows to the diplomatic cohesion necessary for concentrating efforts on helping countries escape poverty. Among the key topics up for discussion is reforming international finance to help poorer countries shrug off a growing debt burden that inhibits their capacity to achieve progress in health and education. The total external debt of the group of least developed countries has more than tripled in 15 years, according to UN data. A recent report commissioned by the late Pope Francis and coordinated by Nobel laureate economist Joseph Stiglitz said 3.3 billion people live in countries that fork out more on interest payments than on health. Critics have singled out US-based bulwarks of the post-World War II international financial system, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund for reform to improve their representation of the Global South. Painstaking talks in New York in June produced a common declaration to be adopted in Seville that only went ahead after the United

o US absence underlines erosion of international cooperation on addressing hunger, disease and climate change

SEVILLE: A United Nations (UN) conference aiming to rally fresh support for development aid began in Spain yesterday, with the sector in crisis as US-led funding cuts jeopardise the fight against poverty. At least 50 world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Kenya’s William Ruto, European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen and UN head Antonio Guterres, will be gathered in the city of Seville until Thursday. However, the United States is snubbing the biggest such talks in a decade, underlining the erosion of international cooperation on addressing hunger, disease and climate change. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose country has tried to promote Global South priorities such as debt during its presidency of the G20 club of wealthy nations, cancelled his visit for domestic political reasons. More than 4,000 representatives

Sokhna Ndiaye of the Africa Development Interchange Network called on the public and private sectors to be “less selfish and show more solidarity” with developing countries. Hours earlier, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said “the very fact that this conference is happening while conflict is raging across the globe is a reason to be hopeful”. Speaking at an event by non-profit Global Citizen, he reiterated Madrid’s commitment to reach 0.7% of GDP in development aid and urged other countries to do the same. Pan-African advocacy group Afrodad executive director Jason Braganza said countries, including the United States, the European Union and Britain, have from businesses, civil society and financial institutions are attending the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. UN Sustainable Development Goals set for 2030 are slipping from reach as the world’s wealthiest countries are withdrawing funding for development programmes. US President Donald Trump’s gutting of US development agency USAID is the standout example, with Germany, Britain and France among other rich economies making cuts when faced with competing priorities, such as defence. International charity Oxfam said the cuts to development aid are the largest since 1960 while the UN put the growing gap in annual development finance at US$4 trillion (RM16.87 trillion). More than 800 million people live on less than US$3 per day, according to the World Bank, with rising extreme poverty affecting sub-Saharan Africa in particular.

Protesters demand debt cancellation, climate action SEVILLE: Activists marched in blistering heat through southern Spain’s Seville on Sunday, calling for debt cancellation, climate justice and taxing the super rich on the eve of a United Nations (UN) summit on financing development that critics say lacks ambition and scope. Beauty Narteh of Ghana’s Anti-Corruption Coalition said her group wants a fairer tax system and “dignity, not handouts”.

The four-day meeting, held once every decade, promises to take on poverty, disease and climate change by mapping out the global framework for development. But the United States’s decision to pull out and wealthy countries’ shrinking appetite for foreign aid have dampened hopes that the summit would bring about significant change. Greenpeace members carried a float depicting billionaire Elon Musk as a baby wielding a chainsaw, seated atop a terrestrial globe. Others held up placards reading “Make human rights great again”, “Tax justice now” or “Make polluters pay”.

Protesters with the float of Elon Musk, placards and banners taking part in the march on Sunday. – REUTERSPIC

obstructed efforts to organise a UN convention on sovereign debt. Afrodad had taken part in the year-long negotiation on the conference’s final outcome document.

“It is a shame that these countries have opted to protect their own interests and those of creditors over lives that are being lost,” added Braganza. – Reuters

Dalai Lama suggests institution to continue MCLEOD GANJ: Exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, at prayer celebrations for his 90th birthday yesterday gave the strongest indication yet that the 600-year-old institution would continue after his death. talk about its continuation”, he said, speaking in Tibetan. The leader, who turns 90 on July 6, and thousands of other Tibetans have lived in exile in India since Chinese troops crushed an uprising in the Tibetan capital Lhasa in 1959.

non-violence, compassion and the enduring struggle for Tibetan cultural identity under Chinese rule. His advancing age has sparked concern over the future of Tibetan leadership and the delicate question of his succession. While China condemns him as a rebel and separatist, the internationally recognised Dalai Lama describes himself as a “simple Buddhist monk”. Many exiled Tibetans fear that China would name a successor to bolster control over a territory it

continue to dedicate myself to the wellbeing of others.“ The Nobel Peace Prize-winning Buddhist Tenzin Gyatso is expected to reveal if there will be another Dalai Lama after him. The Dalai Lama has said the institution would continue only if there is popular demand, and is widely expected to reveal that decision tomorrow. The occasion carries profound weight not only for Tibetans, but also for global supporters who see the Dalai Lama as a symbol of

Draped in traditional maroon and yellow robes, he sat and listened to speeches and chants of monks, nuns, pilgrims as well as well-wishers from across the world. “Although I am 90 years old, physically I am very healthy. “In the time I have left, I will

The Dalai Lama joined thousands of Buddhist followers in the celebrations, an event resonating far beyond the Indian Himalayan town where he has lived for decades. “As far as the institution of the Dalai Lama, there will be some kind of a framework within which we could