02/07/2025

Federal Court upholds convictions of three over Kevin Morais murder Death sentence for ex-pathologist colonel maintained, two spared the gallows and three others discharged and acquitted.

WEDNESDAY JULY 2, 2025

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Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY D c t d New TNB bill format more transparent SCAN ME No. 8839 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) Report on — page 5

Additional details allow customers to analyse every sen spent and make smarter daily energy management decisions.

Report on — page 3

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The Aerotrain resumed full operations yesterday morning after a RM456 million overhaul, part of a larger RM742 million initiative to future-proof KLIA as a premier regional hub. – BERNAMAPIC

It is ‘good ... faster than before,’ says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim after a ride on the new train during a walkabout of Terminal 1 yesterday. PM gives thumbs up to upgraded KLIA Aerotrain

RimbaWatch wants independent inquiry over gas pipeline blast

Report on — page 4

Environmental watchdog challenges ‘no negligence’ conclusion in probe report, questions how 24cm soil subsidence went unnoticed.

WEDNESDAY | JULY 2, 2025

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PM gives thumbs up to revamped KLIA aerotrain o Full operations resumed after an RM456m overhaul, part of efforts to make airport a premier regional hub

Anwar leaves for three-nation visit

SEPANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim embarked on a visit to Italy, France and Brazil yesterday. A Malaysia Airlines chartered flight carrying him and the Malaysian delegation departed from the KL International Airport at 2.15pm. The three-nation visit kicks-off with a three day official visit to Italy. The visits to major economic hubs – Rome, Paris and Rio de Janeiro – aim to strengthen Malaysia’s diplomatic ties and trade relations with the respective nations. These markets collectively recorded a bilateral trade value of RM50.91 billion last year. Anwar is accompanied by a business delegation comprising representatives from major Malaysian corporations and enterprises, including Petronas, Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Tenaga Nasional Berhad, Maybank, FGV, YTL Power and Sunway. Anwar’s inaugural visit to Italy is being undertaken at the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Malaysia’s Ambassador to Italy Datuk Zahid Rastam said the visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations between the countries across a wide range of sectors. In Rome, Anwar will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Deputy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. In Paris, Anwar is scheduled to meet with President Emmanuel Macron, and discussions are expected to focus on trade, technology and education. In addition to a roundtable with France’s industrial giants, he will engage with local Muslim leaders, meet Malaysian citizens and deliver a public lecture at Sorbonne University on July 4. After the Paris stopover, Anwar will be in Rio de Janeiro to attend the 17th BRICS Summit. – Bernama

connecting through the satellite terminal which hosts most of the airport’s long-haul carriers. A KLIA icon since 1998, the aerotrain had come under fire in recent years due to frequent breakdowns, particularly a highly publicised failure in March 2023 that left passengers stranded and forced MAHB to deploy shuttle buses. The incident sparked public outcry, a formal apology from MAHB and intervention by the Transport Ministry. Loke subsequently ordered an urgent upgrade of the ageing system and demanded better service standards. In response, MAHB suspended the aerotrain in early 2023 and fast-tracked the procurement and installation of the new Alstom units, delivering on its commitment to restore reliable rail service within two years. With operations now fully restored, MAHB said the revamped aerotrain would bolster KLIA’s readiness for rising passenger volumes ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, and support the airport’s full recovery to pre-pandemic levels. including automotive, smartwatches and smartphones rely on satellite technology for GPS, communications and more.” On Feb 15 last year, it was reported that Malaysia was racing against time in its bid to establish the first rocket launch site in Southeast Asia. Chang was quoted as saying that Malaysia has several advantages in building such a facility, including being located outside earthquake zones and having no active volcanoes, among others. – Bernama

SEPANG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took a ride on the newly upgraded KL International Airport (KLIA) Aerotrain during a walkabout at Terminal 1 of KLIA yesterday. Describing the ride, he said it was “good… faster than before”. He was accompanied by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB) managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani and senior MAHB officials. Anwar travelled from the contact pier to the satellite building aboard the fully modernised, driverless train, and was later briefed on the system’s upgrades under MAHB’s Airport Regeneration Plan. The aerotrain resumed full operations yesterday morning after an RM456 million overhaul, part of a larger RM742 million initiative to future-proof KLIA as a premier

regional hub. Now powered by Alstom Innovia APM 300R train sets, each three-car unit can carry up to 270 passengers and reach speeds of 56kph, cutting travel time between the main and satellite terminals to under three minutes. The new system features advanced condition-monitoring technology aimed at reducing breakdowns, improving operational efficiency and enhancing passenger comfort. Mohd Izani said the upgraded aerotrain underwent six months of rigorous technical and safety testing by the Land Public Transport Agency from January to June 2025 before being cleared for service, Bernama reported. KLIA Terminal 1 currently sees over 100,000 passenger movements daily, with the aerotrain serving as a critical link, especially for international transit passengers

Suitable locations for rocket launch site being identified SERI ISKANDAR: The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry is conducting a preliminary feasibility study on proposals from Sabah and Pahang to identify suitable locations in the two states for the development of a rocket launch site. “There are many aspects that we need to examine in this feasibility study. So, it will take time,” he said after the fifth edition of the ministry’s Tech Talks programme at Universiti Teknologi Petronas on Monday. many sectors

Chang expressed hope that construction work for the rocket launch site could begin as early as 2026. “In fact, demand for satellite launches is increasing and the number of existing launch sites worldwide is no longer sufficient. “In the past, satellites were mainly needed for communication and television but now

Its minister Chang Lih Kang said the study would take some time as it requires evaluation from multiple angles. “So far, two states have expressed interest and submitted their applications – Sabah and Pahang. We are currently conducting a feasibility study on their proposals.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com New agency chief to focus on curbing cross-border crimes

PUTRAJAYA: Commissioner Datuk Seri Mohd Shuhaily Mohd Zain officially reported for duty yesterday as the new director-general of the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency, amid expectations of stronger border enforcement. Replacing the now-defunct Malaysian Border Security Agency, the new agency carries an expanded mandate that includes overseeing enforcement at the country’s land, sea and air entry points. Under Mohd Shuhaily’s leadership, the agency is expected to accelerate efforts in curbing cross border crimes, improving operational efficiency and enhancing collaboration among enforcement bodies such as the police, immigration and maritime authorities. In his first remarks as the agency’s head, Mohd Shuhaily emphasised urgency in carrying out administrative reforms and directives set by the Home Ministry. “My contract is only for two years and if you break that down into quarters, I only have eight to fulfil everything that’s expected of me. I intend to make full use of the time I have.” He thanked the media for its continued support and indicated that a clearer direction would emerge following his scheduled internal briefing session with the agency’s senior officials. “I was just given several directives by the ministry, including administrative matters that must be resolved quickly. “I recognise familiar faces from the Immigration Department and the police force.

Mohd Shuhaily on his first day at work, flanked by the agency’s deputy director-general Ismail Mokhtar (left) and deputy director-general (Operations) Mohd Jasmi Mohd Juwahir in Putrajaya yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

University/APIIT and a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from Nanyang Technological University in Singapore. He began his career in 1997 as a Cadet Officer and later served in senior roles, including as Special Branch Division head at Bukit Aman, Penang police chief and Kuala Lumpur police chief.

delivery and the integrity of enforcement at national entry points. The 53-year-old brings more than 28 years of experience in law enforcement. He holds a BA (Hons) in International Relations from the International Islamic University Malaysia, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from Staffordshire

Insya-Allah, our task is to ensure that the Malaysia Border Control and Protection Agency is not just an agency on paper, but one that is physically visible and impactful, in line with the government’s expectations.” Mohd Shuhaily’s appointment aligns with the Madani government’s reform goals, and his leadership is expected to strengthen service

WEDNESDAY | JULY 2, 2025

3 TNB bills get makeover with detailed cost breakdown

Govt to boost internet connectivity on highways GEORGE TOWN: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will collaborate with the Malaysian Highway Authority to identify nearly 50km of roads nationwide that have no telecommunications coverage. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the initiative is part of the government’s commitment to the principle of “where there’s a road, there’s internet”, aimed at improving connectivity along highways across the country. “There are several key locations under discussion, and my hope is that they can be included in Phase Two of the National Digital Network Plan or Jendela. “Many of the sites will likely require new towers. Insya Allah , we will assist,” Fahmi told reporters this after launching the YES six-way 4G Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) Tower at Tanjung Asam in Bayan Lepas yesterday. Also present were Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari and Bayan Lepas assemblyman Datuk Azrul Mahathir Aziz, who is also Penang Legislative Assembly deputy speaker. The MOCN project supports the ministry’s vision for a Network Infrastructure Sharing Framework which brings together all network operators to improve mobile internet coverage for the public. The seamless coverage across the Tanjung Asam coastal corridor provided by the MOCN Tower benefits more than 500 residents and 350 daily commuters, including nearby fishing villages and underserved communities. Fahmi also said the ministry is aiming to implement a proof of concept for direct-to-cell technology via Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites in several locations during the third or fourth quarter of this year. – Bernama Umno general assembly put off to November KUALA LUMPUR: The 2025 Umno general assembly, originally scheduled for next month, has been postponed to Nov 26-29 in view of preparations for the upcoming Sabah state election. Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, in a statement, said this was decided during the Umno supreme council meeting on Monday. The meeting, chaired by party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, was also attended by vice-presidents Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail and Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, and other supreme council members. In March, the Umno supreme council had set this year’s general assembly for Aug 20-23. The five-year term of the Sabah State Legislative Assembly is scheduled to expire automatically on Nov 11, paving the way for the 17th state election. Asyraf Wajdi said Umno will conduct a mid-term review on the effectiveness and performance of the unity government, including the achievements of the Umno leadership within the administration and in government-linked and affiliated agencies. – Bernama

o Revised format and tariff structure designed to enhance transparency, boost customer awareness, enable them to better understand electricity charges and manage monthly usage

KUALA Nasional

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fuel costs, generation capacity and global fuel price adjustments. Network charge involves operational costs for transmission and supply system maintenance, while retail charge includes customer service, billing and account management costs,” the website said. The detailed billing format is designed to enhance transparency and enable customers to better understand the structure of their electricity charges. The website said the move will allow customers to track and analyse every sen spent on their electricity usage, empowering them to make more informed decisions on daily energy management. For the July bill, customers will receive a transitional bill reflecting two sets of usage charges for different periods – up to June 30 for charges calculated under the old tariff and from July 1 for charges on the new tariff structure. “The July 2025 transitional bill will be available within 24 hours via the myTNB app and portal, while printed bills will be delivered within seven working days from the meter reading date,” the website said. To ensure transparency and clarity for customers, TNB will issue a verification slip from the meter reader to confirm that meter readings have been done. From next month onwards, all customers will begin receiving monthly bills under the fully revised format. Additionally, to help users adapt to the changes, TNB has provided an online electricity bill calculator on its website to enable customers to estimate their bills based on usage and the new tariff rates. For more information, visit www.mytnb.com.my/tariff or contact TNB CareLine at 1300-88-5454 or visit any Kedai Tenaga branch nationwide.

Tenaga

Berhad (TNB) customers can now scrutinise their electricity usage with a new and more detailed bill format following the implementation of a new electricity tariff structure recently announced by the Energy Commission. The new format, implemented in line with the government approved Incentive-Based Regulation (IBR) mechanism under Section 26 of the Electricity Supply Act 1990, aims to enhance billing transparency and enable customers to better

breakdown main components: generation charge, network charge and retail charge, reported Bernama. “Generation charge covers of three

understand how their energy usage translates into cost. According to TNB’s official myTNB website, customers will receive bills that include a

A consumer comparing the current format with the new detailed billing, which is available on myTNB app and portal. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

‘Five-day notice rule violates peaceful assembly right’ PUTRAJAYA: The Federal Court five-member bench yesterday ruled that a provision under Section 9(5) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012 (PAA) – which penalises organisers for failing to give police five days’ prior notice before holding an assembly – is unconstitutional. as validly restricting the right guaranteed to all citizens by Article 10(2)(b). “Subsection 9(5), therefore, violates the right to peaceful assembly under Article 10(1)(b) and must be struck down as null and void under Article 4(1),” she said. The ruling followed a constitutional challenge on littoral combat ship project acquisition. The other judges on the bench were Court of Appeal president Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim, Federal Court judges Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan, Datuk Rhodzariah Bujang and Court of Appeal judge Datuk Mohd Nazlan Mohd Ghazali. The court then ordered that Amir Hariri’s case be remitted to the High Court to be justly and expeditiously disposed of. The questions touched on whether Section 9(5) of the PAA 2012 violates the right to freedom of assembly as enshrined in the Federal Constitution.

On Aug 26, 2022, Amir Hariri pleaded not guilty at the Kuala Lumpur Magistrate’s Court. He was charged, as the organiser of the rally, with failing to notify Dang Wangi district police five days prior to holding the event held on Aug 14, 2022. He was charged under Section 9(1) of the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012, punishable under Section 9(5) of the same Act, which carries a maximum fine of RM10,000 upon conviction. – Bernama

Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, who chaired the panel, said Section 9(5) of the PAA is unconstitutional for it is inconsistent with Article 10(2)(b) read with Article 8(1) of the Federal Constitution. “We find that subsection 9(5) is not validly enacted under Article 10(2)(b) and it cannot be deemed

punishment under Section 9(5) of the PAA by former Muda secretary general Amir Hariri Abd Hadi, who was charged in 2022 for failing to notify the Dang Wangi district police five days prior to holding a rally in front of the Sogo Shopping Complex at Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman in Kuala Lumpur, over the

In August last year, the High Court allowed Amir’s application to refer two constitutional questions to the Federal Court regarding the charge against him for organising the 2022 rally.

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Call for independent probe into Petronas over blast

No negligence, sabotage in pipeline explosion: Police SHAH ALAM: Police have classified the gas pipeline explosion incident in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya on April 1 as No Further Action following criminal investigations that found no elements of negligence or sabotage. Selangor police chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the case could be reopened if new evidence or information emerges. “We are satisfied and closing the case for now, but it could be reopened at any time should there be new information.” He was speaking after a press conference on the Selangor Narcotics Crime Investigation Department’s success at the state police contingent headquarters here yesterday. He welcomed anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and share it with police. On Monday, Hussein confirmed that there were no elements of sabotage, foul play or negligence identified that could have caused damage to the gas pipeline and triggered the explosion. According to him, this conclusion was based on technical investigations conducted following the explosion of the underground gas pipeline. He said the construction of shop lots and replacement of sewer pipes in the area complied with guidelines set by the Subang Jaya City Council, the Environment Department and Petronas. – Bernama Penan natives arrested while protesting logging MIRI: Anti-logging protests in the remote forests of Sarawak’s Baram region escalated into physical confrontation when forestry enforcement teams swooped into human blockades set up by ethnic Penan natives defending their ancestral lands. Two individuals in the Long Tepen settlement were arrested and remanded for allegedly confronting the officers. The protestors claimed that the forestry officials started the physical arrests. Penan community association Keruan head Komeok Joe described the arrests as an abuse of the people’s human rights. “The Penans in Long Tepen and elsewhere in the forests have been subjected to victimisation by timber giants whose logging has destroyed ancient native customary forests. “We have lodged police reports against the logging operators who trespassed into our forests and chopped down big areas of trees,” he told theSun yesterday. Sarawak native land rights lawyer Roland Engan said the protests are taking place out of desperation. “They are defending their forests using physical blockades as their appeals to state authorities have been repeatedly ignored. “The forestry enforcement people must not intimidate the natives who are merely defending their forests,“ he said. The anti-logging protests in Sarawak have escalated over the past few months, especially in Baram and Marudi districts. Human blockades have been set up in the Telang Usan and Tutoh Apoh regions. The Penan are original inhabitants of Sarawak, with most still living in the forests. However, huge tracts in the northern interiors have been taken over by timber firms for logging. Ű BY JOSEPH PETER

o Environmental watchdog questions how 24cm soil subsidence went unnoticed

Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Environmental watchdog RimbaWatch has urged the Selangor government to launch an independent inquiry into Petronas Gas Berhad and several government agencies following the April 1 gas pipeline explosion in Putra Heights, which injured 145 people and damaged over 200 homes. The call comes after a report by the Occupational Safety and Health Department concluded that the blast was caused by unstable soil and groundwater accumulation, leading to 24.3cm of soil subsidence over 25 years. The report, released on Monday, found no evidence of negligence. RimbaWatch has challenged this conclusion, arguing that Malaysian law defines negligence as the failure to exercise reasonable care, particularly when such failure results in harm. “Given this definition, a number of questions remain unanswered,” the group said in a statement. Citing the Petroleum (Safety Measures) Act 1984 and Gas Supply Act 1993, RimbaWatch stressed that pipeline operators may bear civil or criminal liability if faults in design, monitoring or maintenance are found. It said Petronas has consistently promoted its pipeline infrastructure as long-lasting and monitored using advanced systems, including aerial and ground patrols, and real-time technologies such as Scada and PiriGIS. Given these capabilities, RimbaWatch questioned how such significant soil movement went unnoticed. It pointed out that environmental impact assessments (EIA) have been mandatory since 1988 and questioned whether the original EIA for the pipeline, laid in 2000, adequately accounted for long-term geological risks, such as groundwater buildup and subsidence. “Who approved the EIA and who was responsible for monitoring its implementation over the years?”

RimbaWatch also called for scrutiny of government agencies involved in land-use planning, asking how approval was given to build dense housing near a major gas pipeline. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

(RM125.82 million) fine for the operator. “We call for the Selangor government to commission an independent investigation, supported by local, regional and international experts in engineering, health and safety, geology, and law, to address these critical questions and uphold economic and environmental justice for the residents of Putra Heights,” it said. RimbaWatch stressed that such a probe must be independent, warning that fossil fuel companies and regulators should not be allowed to escape potential responsibility for a disaster of this magnitude. At a press conference on Monday, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said investigations into the gas pipeline explosion at Putra Heights concluded that the incident was not caused by sabotage or negligence but rather by long-term ground subsidence. He also said police found no evidence of sabotage or negligence contributing to the incident. The investigation was led by the Occupational Safety and Health Department, alongside the Minerals and Geoscience Department, Public Works Department, Fire and Rescue Department and police. Amirudin Shari said the government would engage legal and technical experts to develop a new policy framework aimed at preventing future incidents such as the gas pipeline fire that occurred in Putra Heights three months ago. He said the move is part of a learning process and a necessary follow-up action in response to the incident. “This is one of the terms of reference, or duties, of that special committee, which will look into legal frameworks that can be enforced. “The legal aspects could take various forms. It could be by-laws, new terms and conditions under the One-Stop Centre, state enactments or even federal-level legislation.” He was speaking after witnessing the signing of two memoranda of cooperation with strategic partners, namely Universiti Selangor, the Selangor Technical Skills Development Centre and Central Spectrum (M) Sdn Bhd, yesterday to strengthen efforts in developing the state’s water industry ecosystem. – Bernama

It also highlighted a history of pipeline failures, particularly the Sabah-Sarawak Gas Pipeline, which has reportedly experienced explosions and leaks since 2014 and was decommissioned earlier this year due to persistent maintenance problems. “This raises serious doubts about whether Petronas has put in place more stringent monitoring of high-risk pipeline sections, particularly after its experience with the Sabah-Sarawak Gas Pipeline.” RimbaWatch also called for scrutiny of government agencies involved in land-use planning, questioning how approval was given to build dense housing near a major gas pipeline. The organisation warned that framing the disaster as purely environmental, with no accountability assigned, reflects a broader trend in Malaysia’s response to environmental disasters. It cited the 2022 Kampung Iboi floods and Batang Kali landslide as examples in which systemic accountability was lacking. To underscore its point, RimbaWatch referred to the 2018 Revolution Pipeline explosion in Pennsylvania, which was similarly triggered by a landslide but resulted in nine criminal charges and a US$30 million

Gas supply restored for Putra Heights residents KUALA LUMPUR: Residents of Putra Heights affected by the April 1 gas pipeline fire breathed a sigh of relief yesterday as stable gas supply began to be restored through temporary piping. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Department, a temporary gas pipeline measuring about 210m long has been installed to replace the pipe damaged in the incident. “Soil improvement and stabilisation were carried out at the site using a bridge foundation support structure measuring about 8m by 100m to provide stronger support for the pipeline,” it said in a statement yesterday. 200m long, at the affected sites. These pipes would be laid on concrete slab structures to ensure long-term safety and durability. “The engineering design for this phase is being finalised, with operations expected to commence in the third quarter of next year,” it said. In addition, several geotechnical studies, including soil mapping, rock layer analysis and ground movement monitoring, have been conducted to ensure the overall stability of the installation site.

Petronas has also been instructed to provide real-time monitoring access to the pipe isolation valve system, enabling rapid closure in the event of an emergency. The department said all work would be closely monitored and conducted impartially to safeguard the safety of workers, residents and nearby businesses. Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri

To ensure maximum safety, several stringent tests were conducted, including non-destructive testing on welded joints and a 24-hour pressure test. It said test results confirmed by the department and an independent third party showed no leakage or pressure drop. It added that Phase Two of the project would involve replacing three gas pipelines, each about

WEDNESDAY | JULY 2, 2025

5 Ex-pathologist death sentence upheld

o Court commutes convictions of two others to life imprisonment, discharges and acquits three individuals in Morais murder case

Deputy public prosecutor Mohd Fairuz Johari pressed for the death sentences to be maintained due to the brutal nature of the crime. After the court delivered the decision, Sivananthan, Amer Hamzah, Kitson Foong and Afifuddin Ahmad Hafifi extended their appreciation to Justice Tengku Maimun and Justice Abang Iskandar, both of whom are retiring. In yesterday’s proceeding, lawyer Jasmine Cheong also represented Kunaseegaran, while the other lawyers were Y. Sheelan Shamuagam for Dinishwaran, Burhanudeen Abdul Wahid (Thinesh Kumar), Afifuddin (Vishwanath), Amer Hamzah (Nimalan) and Kitson Foong (Ravi Chandran). Deputy public prosecutors Datuk Yusaini Abdul Karim, Mohd Fairuz Johari and Mohd Fuad Abdul Aziz appeared for the prosecution. Teacher falls victim to phone scam GEORGE TOWN: A teacher lost RM890,000 after falling victim to a phone scam syndicate that falsely accused the victim of being involved in money laundering. Penang deputy police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin said the 59-year old woman filed a report on Monday at the commercial crime investigation division of the northeast district police headquarters, Bernama reported. “According to the victim, she was at home when she received a phone call from an unknown number on May 10. A man, who introduced himself as a representative of a bank, told her a credit card had been misused in her name. “The woman denied having the credit card, and the call was connected to an individual claiming to be a police officer in Johor, who said she was involved in a money laundering case,” he said. The “police officer” then asked the woman to transfer money for audit purposes, and that the money would be returned after investigation was completed. Mohd Alwi said the victim made 27 online money transfer transactions to 23 different accounts from May 19 to June 5, involving a total of RM890,000. Bodies of mother, daughter found GEORGE TOWN: The decaying bodies of a mother and her two-year-old daughter were found in an apartment in Jalan Bukit Gambir here, north-east district police chief ACP Abdul Rozak Muhammad said yesterday. He added that they received a public tipoff about a stench coming from the apartment at 4.41pm on Monday. A police team along with some firefighters managed to break into the unit. “Inspection of the home led to the discovery of the decaying bodies of a 40-year-old woman and a female child in the main room,” he said in a statement. Forensic experts from Penang Hospital and the Penang contingent police headquarters were called to assist in the investigations. Both bodies were sent to the hospital for an autopsy. The case is being classified as sudden death pending the autopsy results, he said. – Bernama

Raya Sentul and No. 1, Jalan USJ 1/6D, Subang Jaya, between 7 am and 8pm on Sept 4, 2015. The Court of Appeal dismissed their appeals on March 14 last year. Morais, who was reported missing on Sept 4, 2015, was last seen leaving his apartment at Menara Duta, Kuala Lumpur, in a Proton Perdana. His body was found in a cement filled oil drum at Persiaran Subang Mewah, Subang Jaya on Sept 16 the same year. During the proceedings, lawyer Datuk N. Sivananthan, representing Kunaseegaran, told the court his client had instructed him to withdraw his appeal against the death sentence, while Nimalan’s counsel Datuk Amer Hamzah Arshad and lawyer Kitson Foong, representing Ravi Chandran, urged the court to commute the death sentence to life imprisonment.

Datuk Bujang, discharged and acquitted the other three individuals, namely R. Dinishwaran, 32, A.K. Thinesh Kumar, 31, and M. Vishwanath, 34, for the murder, Bernama reported. In delivering the court’s unanimous decision, Abang Iskandar said the court was satisfied that the convictions against Kunaseegaran, Nimalan and Ravi were safe and that their appeals against the convictions were dismissed. However, regarding the other three appellants, the judge said there was insufficient evidence to uphold their murder convictions. “We allow their appeals and hereby set aside their convictions for murder,” he said. On July 10, 2020, the six men were sentenced to death after they were found guilty of killing Morais, 55, somewhere along Jalan Dutamas Rhodzariah

PUTRAJAYA: The Federal Court yesterday upheld the death sentence imposed on a former pathologist colonel for the murder of deputy public prosecutor Datuk Anthony Kevin Morais in 2015. A three-man bench led by Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat affirmed the murder conviction of Colonel Dr R. Kunaseegaran, 62, S. Nimalan, 31 and S. Ravi Chandran, 53. However, both Nimalan and Ravi Chandran were spared the gallows after the court commuted the death sentences imposed on them by the

High Court to life imprisonment. Nimalan was sentenced to 35 years in prison with 12 strokes of the cane, while Ravi Chandran was sentenced to 40 years in jail. The court did not impose whipping on Ravi Chandran as he is aged above 50. Tengku Maimun said Kunaseegaran’s death sentence remained as he had withdrawn his appeal against the sentence. Meanwhile, the panel, which also comprised Court of Appeal president Tan Sri Abang Iskandar Abang Hashim and Federal Court judge

Smuggling attempts foiled, RM10m goods seized IPOH: The Perak Customs Department has successfully foiled attempts to smuggle drugs and various other goods, including a Brabham BT62 supercar, at four separate locations, with total seizures valued at RM10.9 million. on May 27. He added that the seized vehicle is valued at RM6.4 million including tax, and the case is being investigated under Section 135(1)(d) of the Customs Act 1967.

authorities,” he said here yesterday. Mohd Nadzri said the department was investigating the case under Section 39B of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952, Bernama reported. He added that the team also seized 55,320 electronic cigarette devices with various liquid brands and 706 smuggled marble tiles valued at about RM1.5 million, including tax, in a container at Port Klang, Selangor, on June 4. The modus operandi involved false declarations, and the case is being investigated under Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967. In a separate case, the team discovered a Brabham BT62 supercar brought into the country without an import permit, kept in a container at West Port, Pulau Indah, Selangor,

He added that the department also seized pig carcasses imported from a neighbouring country without proper documentation and without consultation with the Malaysian Quarantine and Inspection Services Department. The shipment lacked an import permit and a health certificate from the country of origin. “The carcasses, seized from two refrigerated lorries in Pengkalan Hulu, Gerik, are estimated to be worth RM1.5 million including tax,” he said.

Its director Mohd Nadzri Ariffin said his department inspected a package suspected of containing ganja at a courier service in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, at about 2.45pm on June 5. The inspection uncovered eight plastic packages containing dried plants suspected to be ganja , weighing 9.8kg and valued at RM966,084. “Smuggling drugs hidden inside mattress boxes and inflatable pools for export is a common modus operandi used to evade

Zairulnizam and officers with the fake firearms seized during a house raid in Segambut. – BERNAMAPIC

Three foreigners held, fake firearms confiscated KUALA LUMPUR: Police arrested three foreigners and seized hundreds of fake firearms, including Walther P99 pistols, M4 Carbines and Colt AR-15s in a raid on a terrace house in Segambut here on Monday. other locations in Selangor and Johor were raided simultaneously. “Police also seized fake Heckler and Koch MP5 rifles, CZ, Glock 17, Sand Viper and Browning pistols,” he said, adding that ball bearing crossbows and spear guns were also seized. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department Wildlife Crime Bureau/Special Investigation Intelligence deputy director SAC Zairulnizam Mohd Zainuddin said several The fake firearms were stored at the premises for repackaging before being sold openly on

social media platforms,” he said. The trio would be investigated under Section 36 of the Arms Act 1960, Section (6)(1)(c) and 39(b) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. “Social media administrators are advised to monitor sales activities on their platforms and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission would take stern action if sales of such items are found,” he said. – Bernama

WEDNESDAY | JULY 2, 2025

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Battling OCD by offering free decluttering service

Exhibition highlights dangers of ghost nets KUALA LUMPUR: “The Echoes of the Deep: Pulau Sembilan Reborn” photo exhibition serves as a creative platform to raise awareness of the dangers of ghost nets, and advocate for the protection of marine ecosystems. The month-long exhibition, organised by the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA), begins today at the Financial Services Library, AICB Centre of Excellence, and features 30 underwater photographs captured around Pulau Sembilan, Perak. According to MTA CEO Mohd Radzuan Mohamed, the island was selected as ghost nets found on the seabed in its marine-rich waters pose a serious threat to coral reefs and marine ecosystems. “This exhibition is not only a visual narrative but also a call to action involving cooperation from all parties, including the state government, universities, associations and industry, in efforts to preserve the environment and protect the ocean,” he said after launching the exhibition on Monday. Organised in collaboration with Etiqa General Takaful Berhad, Nature & Oceanography Advocate Society and Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah, the exhibition runs until July 30 and is open to the public free of charge. Mohd Radzuan said MTA also organised beach and seabed clean up activities aimed at equipping youth and volunteers with knowledge and awareness on marine conservation. “The beach clean-up programme was carried out to remove ghost nets from the seabed with the help of 50 university students.” – Bernama

o Nuradzlinn has launched BioQueen, an initiative to help clean up homes of people with a hoarding problem

KUALA LUMPUR: Nuradzlinn Abu Hashim, who lives with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), has made decluttering homes of individuals with hoarding disorder a therapeutic part of her recovery journey. The 37-year-old self-employed woman, who has been struggling with OCD since childhood, said she is battling it by helping hoarders clear their homes free of charge. “Imagine, I used to wash my hands up to 50 times a day until they blistered and bled, and I was so obsessed with cleanliness that I changed domestic helpers 21 times in a year and a half.” She said OCD symptoms not only affected her daily life but also burdened her family and friends, eventually leading her to seek psychiatric treatment about a year ago. On her doctor’s advice, Nuradzlinn began gradually confronting her fears, including touching objects she once considered dirty. She also launched a programme called BioQueen just over a month ago, supported by her husband Zulkefli Md Esa, 47, and about 10 volunteers, to help clean and declutter the homes of people with a hoarding problem who have persistent difficulty in parting with their possessions. “Unlike in other countries, I find that hoarders here are often neglected. There’s no proper

association or body that can help them. Society often misunderstands and looks down on people who live in cluttered conditions.” Her BioQueen initiative began gaining public attention after she shared her experiences on social media, drawing people who wanted to volunteer, donate supplies or simply offer moral support, Bernama reported. Nuradzlinn said the real challenge lies not just in cleaning dirty and cluttered homes but also in dealing with the emotional resistance and behaviour of the occupants, who struggle to let go of their unused items. “There have been instances where homeowners picked up their belongings from garbage bins after we threw them away. “In some cases, we could only clean the houses after the occupants were distracted with the help of police and family members.” She said her team also faces risks such as exposure to foul odours and encounters with venomous creatures like snakes, scorpions and centipedes hiding in the clutter. She added that safety is a top priority in every cleanup effort, including wearing masks, gloves, goggles and closed shoes. Nuradzlinn’s initiative is already having a positive impact on her. She said her OCD symptoms have reduced significantly and she is less dependent on medication. “This is my ‘medicine’ now,” she said, referring to her voluntary

Nuradzlinn says the challenge lies not just in cleaning dirty, cluttered homes but also in dealing with the emotional resistance and behaviour of occupants, – PIC COURTESY OF NURADZLINN ABU HASHIM

spine into an S-curve. She hopes to expand her small initiative through the establishment of a permanent volunteer team as well as collaborate with the relevant authorities and mental health professionals.

decluttering service. “While others go to the gym, I break a sweat cleaning houses. “It’s so satisfying to see a once filthy home become clean and safe,” said Nuradzlinn, who also suffers from scoliosis that has shaped her

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Thai court suspends PM pending dismissal case

Vietnam rolls out anti-graft plan HANOI: The Vietnamese Government has unveiled an action plan to overhaul oversight of public finances and assets, endorsing a Politburo regulation to curb corruption and bolster accountability, Vietnam News Agency reported. The plan, designed to align with the party’s directives, aims to embed rigorous controls over power and prevent abuse in managing state resources. A core goal is to ensure that leaders, including heads of agencies and decision-making officials, are held to higher standards of accountability. The plan highlights transparent leadership and robust management to protect the integrity of public financial systems. The resolution mandates intensified scrutiny of ministries, agencies, and local authorities, with a focus on how they wield authority over public funds and property. Senior leaders are expected to lead by example, embracing transparency, public accountability and a culture of self criticism in their organisations. To enforce compliance, the government will ramp up inspections, audits and sector-specific reviews to detect and deter misconduct while ensuring adherence to party guidelines and laws. The plan also calls for restructuring of the workforce, prioritising the recruitment and training of officials who demonstrate professional competence, integrity and dedication. To mitigate risks, regular job rotations and position changes are mandated for officials involved in advising, allocating and managing finances. – Bernama sanctions prohibit Tolentino from entering the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau. – Reuters MANILA, CANBERRA END CYBER WARFARE DRILLS MANILA: The Philippine Army said yesterday it has conducted six weeks of cyber warfare exercises with the Australian Defence Force to strengthen their cyber defence and resilience. The exercises, dubbed “Joint Defence Forward Training Activity”, were held at the Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City from mid-May to June 26. “It aimed to strengthen cyber defence by conducting operations focused on detecting, analysing, and mitigating sophisticated digital threats,” army spokesperson Col Louie Dema-ala said. Key activities included joint malware forensics, advanced threat intelligence exchange and reverse engineering of malicious software. – Bernama CHINA SANCTIONS EX-FILIPINO SENATOR MANILA: China sanctioned former Philippine senator Francis Tolentino yesterday and barred him entry, citing “egregious conduct” on matters such as the disputed South China Sea a day after the end of his six-year term. Tolentino, who lost his bid for a second term, had canvassed on his efforts to bring in laws last year defining the country’s sea lanes and maritime zones, which China opposed. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry accused some Filipino politicians of making “malicious remarks and moves” that hurt ties between the two nations. “The Chinese government is firmly resolved to defend national sovereignty, security and development interests,” the spokesperson said. The

BR I E F S

o Deputy takes over as caretaker premier

Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, the Philippines has extended its arc of alliances beyond the United States, its traditional ally, signing defence deals with Japan and New Zealand, and negotiating for similar agreements with Canada and France. On Monday, the Philippines and Lithuania signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen defence cooperation in areas like cyber security, maritime security and munitions production. “The interesting thing is that we’re facing absolutely similar threats and our hostile neighbours are using absolutely similar approach,” Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene said in the joint briefing with Teodoro. – Reuters declining strength of the Pheu Thai Party, the populist juggernaut of the billionaire Shinawatra dynasty that has dominated Thai elections since 2001, enduring military coups and court rulings that have toppled multiple governments and prime ministers. It has been a baptism of fire for political novice Paetongtarn, who was thrust into power as Thailand’s youngest premier and replacement for Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed by the Constitutional Court for violating ethics by appointing a minister who was once jailed. Paetongtarn’s government has also been struggling to revive a stuttering economy and her popularity has declined sharply, with a June 19-25 opinion poll released at the weekend showing her approval rating sinking to 9.2% from 30.9% in March. Paetongtarn is not alone in her troubles, with influential father Thaksin Shinawatra, the driving force behind her government, facing legal hurdles of his own in two different courts this month. Divisive tycoon Thaksin, according to his lawyer, appeared at his first hearing at Bangkok’s Criminal Court yesterday on charges he insulted Thailand’s powerful monarchy, a serious offence punishable by up to 15 years in prison if found guilty. Thaksin denies the allegations and has repeatedly pledged allegiance to the crown. The case stems from a 2015 media interview Thaksin gave while in self-imposed exile, from which he returned in 2023 after 15 years abroad to serve a prison sentence for conflicts of interest and abuse of power. Thaksin, 75, dodged jail and spent six months in hospital detention on medical grounds before being released on parole in February last year. The Supreme Court will this month scrutinise that hospital stay and could potentially send him back to jail. – Reuters

The leaked call with the veteran Cambodian politician triggered domestic outrage and has left Paetongtarn’s coalition with a razor-thin majority, with a key party abandoning the alliance and expected to soon seek a no confidence vote in parliament, as protest groups demand the premier resigns. During a June 15 call intended to defuse escalating border tensions with Cambodia, Paetongtarn, 38, kowtowed before Hun Sen and criticised a Thai army commander, a red line in a country where the military has significant clout. She has apologised and said her remarks were a negotiating tactic. Paetongtarn’s battles after only 10 months in power underline the

telephone with Cambodia’s influential former leader Hun Sen. “The court has considered the petition .... and unanimously accepts the case for consideration,” it said in a statement. Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit will take over in a caretaker capacity while the court decides the case against Paetongtarn, who has 15 days to respond and will remain in the Cabinet as the new culture minister following a reshuffle. “Government work doesn’t stop, there is no problem,” said Tourism Minister and Pheu Thai Party Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong. “Suriya will become caretaker prime minister.” conversation

BANGKOK: Thailand’s Constitutional Court yesterday suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from duty pending a case seeking her dismissal, adding to mounting pressure on a government fighting for survival and under fire on multiple fronts. The court took on the petition from 36 senators that accuses Paetongtarn of dishonesty and breaching ethical standards in violation of the constitution over the leak of a politically sensitive

Paetongtarn leaving after her suspension yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

East, South China seas facing similar threats MANILA: Military leaders are working to enforce a “one-theatre” concept in both the East and South China seas, the Philippines’ defence minister said on Monday, adding that the Southeast Asian country faces threats in disputed waters that are similar to Japan’s. Japanese newspaper Asahi and South China seas as a single area of operation, saying both are maritime areas with no land borders involved. However, he said the area should exclude the Korean Peninsula. China Sea around disputed shoals and atolls that fall inside Manila’s exclusive economic zone. China’s embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Japan’s Joint Operations

“That will involve synergy in operations, synergy in domain awareness, in intelligence exchange, and in mutually reinforcing our strengths to work doubly real-time,” he said at a briefing during the visit of his Lithuanian counterpart Dovile Sakaliene. Japan and China have repeatedly faced off over uninhabited Japanese-administered islands in the East China Sea that Tokyo calls the Senkaku and Beijing calls the Diaoyu. The Philippines and China have clashed frequently in the South

Command is operationalising the single-theatre concept, and the “Squad” grouping that includes the defence ministers of Australia, Japan, the Philippines and the United States will establish a coordinating centre in December to enforce it, Teodoro said. “So it is already an operating concept. It does not need any other agreement,”Teodoro said. Japan and the Philippines last year signed a military agreement that could allow their soldiers on each other’s soil.

reported in April that Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani made a proposal to Pentagon Secretary Pete Hegseth to consider the East China Sea, the South China Sea, the Korean Peninsula and surrounding areas as a single “theatre”, referring to a military area of operation. Philippines’ Secretary of National Defence Gilberto Teodoro said it was “reasonable” to treat both the East