04/07/2025

Excessive use of plastic bags hard habit to break Despite awareness on environmental impact, attachment persists

FRIDAY JULY 4, 2025

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The eight-metre wide depression appeared on the morning of Aug 23 last year and engulfed a tourist from India, whose remains were never recovered. – BERNAMAPIC

Sinkhole report out by year-end Report on — page 3 Cabinet to be presented with details of Jalan Masjid India incident, including probable causes such as burst sewage pipe or underground geological fault.

Investigations reveal housemate of victim had given apartment keys to boyfriend, who has been identified as main suspect. Remand extended on detainees in varsity student murder case

Event to bless and name vessel ‘Raja Muda Nala’ officiated by His Majesty’s consort Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin. Selangor Sultan graces ceremony for launch of combat ship

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Tighten border control to stem drug smuggling: Pahang Sultan KUALA LUMPUR: The country’s borders must be further secured to address the increasingly alarming problem of drug smuggling, said the Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. His Highness said tighter controls are needed at the nation’s entry points, including airports, ports and land borders, as these have been identified as the primary routes for drug trafficking into the country. “Where is the root of the problem? You need to strengthen the borders, boost security at the borders and fortify them. That’s where it starts. Whether at border crossings, airport terminals or ports, all these require strict and constant supervision.” Al-Sultan Abdullah was speaking on Wednesday at a meeting with members of the Malaysian Women Journalists Association, led by its president Sariha Mohd Ali. Also present were the association deputy president Nasriah Darus, secretary Nor Hasliza Abdullah, treasurer M. Saraswathi and other committee members. Al-Sultan Abdullah voiced concern over the growing problem of drug abuse among youth, and stressed that existing enforcement efforts must be strengthened to ensure that the laws in place truly deliver a meaningful impact. He highlighted a new trend in drug smuggling activities involving the use of fishing boats at sea, creating an urgent need for more comprehensive and coordinated surveillance, particularly along the east coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang. In November last year, Al-Sultan Abdullah expressed alarm over the worrying number of drug addicts in Pahang, with figures from the National Anti-Drug Agency indicating 11,750 active addicts in the state. His Highness also expressed support for the nationwide move to ban the use of electronic cigarettes, or vape. “Vaping should be banned completely. We must not be lenient, it will only cause further harm to our people.” Al-Sultan Abdullah said the implementation of the vape ban in Pahang would go through the proper process at the state legislative assembly for the drafting of a relevant law before being enforced by local authorities. “We are currently working to educate the public that vape is a prohibited substance. It is now only a matter of time before enforcement begins.”– Bernama Malaysian culture highlights in Osaka KUALA LUMPUR: The National Culture and Arts Department is using Expo 2025 Osaka as a platform to showcase Malaysian culture through traditional dance performances for international audiences. The department said its participation at the expo serves as a platform for cultural diplomacy, fostering connections between Malaysia and the global community while supporting the promotion of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. It said performances such as Joget Lambak and Magunatip (bamboo dance) as well as a special choreography set to the Visit Malaysia 2026 theme song have created a phenomenon of their own at the expo. “There are visitors who return daily to learn the dance steps. During the interactive segments, the entire audience joins in, dancing together. This clearly demonstrates that Malaysian art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers,” it said in a statement. – Bernama

Tengku Permaisuri Selangor launches second LCS Sultan Sharafuddin and Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin (seated sixth and seventh from left) with other dignitaries at the event in Lumut yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

fully constructed by Lunas, a local company, Bernama reported. “The construction of this ship began with the keel-laying ceremony on Feb 28, 2017. This achievement indirectly reflects the capabilities of local talent in realising the country’s aspirations to compete in the global heavy industry and defence sector. “The role of the Lumut Naval Shipyard is also crucial in stimulating the growth of the national maritime industry not only in defence but also in shipbuilding and repair, technology transfer and upskilling of local subcontractors.” Previously, the first LCS was launched in accordance with the contractual schedule on May 23, 2024. It began its set-to-work phase in May 2025 and is expected to undergo its maiden sea trial in December. LCS 2 completed its downslip process (being lowered into the water) on May 8. As of May 25, the overall progress of the construction of all five LCS stood at 72.43%. economic cooperation at the global level. In 2024, total trade between Malaysia and Italy recorded a 2% increase to RM14.61 billion compared with 2023. Italy was Malaysia’s fifth-largest trading partner and the third-largest importer of Malaysian palm oil among European Union member states in 2024. Anwar is scheduled to depart for Paris, where he will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron during his two-day stay there. Subsequently, Anwar will attend the 17th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro. – Bernama

o Vessel named Raja Muda Nala in honour of renowned national warrior who led state resistance of Dutch control

LUMUT: The Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin officiated at the naming and launching ceremony of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (RMN) second Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) at the naval base here yesterday. The Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah also graced the event. The vessel was named Raja Muda Nala , and as a symbolic gesture, a jar of water blessed with Surah Yasin recitation at nine mosques, representing Selangor’s nine districts, was poured onto the ship’s bow. The naming and launching of a ship before a new vessel is officially commissioned is a naval tradition dating back to the establishment of the royal navy. Defence Deputy Minister Adly Zahari, delivering the speech on behalf of Defence

Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, said the name Raja Muda Nala was chosen in honour of a renowned national warrior who led the people of Selangor in resisting Dutch control over the state. “In this context, the valour, struggle and bravery of Raja Muda Nala are seen as highly fitting and aligned with the capabilities of the LCS, which is designed to face a wide range of threats in modern warfare.” He said the procurement of five LCS is part of the RMN’s strategic plan to enhance fleet readiness through the acquisition of high-tech, combat-capable assets with multi-mission capabilities to safeguard the country’s maritime sovereignty. Adly said LCS 2 is a symbol of national pride as it is the first frigate-class ship to be

Anwar wraps up Italy visit after meeting counterpart ROME: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim wrapped up his three-day working visit to Italy with a bilateral meeting with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi yesterday. cooperation, including education, cultural exchanges, tourism as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern, such as the situation in the Middle East.

Anwar was accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. Malaysia’s Ambassador to Italy Datuk Zahid Rastam was also present. Anwar arrived in the capital on Tuesday as part of his visits to Italy, France and Brazil to strengthen bilateral relations and promote

During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through more comprehensive cooperation. Both sides discussed a range of issues encompassing bilateral cooperation in sectors such as trade and investment, defence, digital, renewable energy, environment and agro-commodities. The discussions covered people-to-people

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Chasing her dream despite challenges BANGI: “I told myself I couldn’t stop halfway.” That was the voice that kept Aisyah Humaira’ Mohd Aqbal going – through the heartbreak of losing her mother, the trauma of a cancer diagnosis and enduring chemotherapy sessions. Now, five years after she first stepped into the IPGM Darulaman Kampus in Kedah, the 23-year-old graduate has emerged stronger, celebrating both survival and success at the 15th IPGM convocation yesterday. “It’s a mix of emotions. Sad because I’ve completed my studies and will miss the moments with my coursemates, but also happy and proud to have completed five years of study,” said the Malay language major, who began her journey at the institute in 2020. Aisyah’s world changed in 2021 when her mother passed away at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. “She had been unwell for some time. Towards the end, she had a stroke and then contracted Covid-19.” The devastating loss was followed by another blow in 2024, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “But Alhamdulillah , I’m still standing strong today.” Her support system became her anchor: her father, siblings and especially stepmother, whom she described as “incredibly supportive and accepting of all our imperfections”. She said friends and lecturers rallied around her, offering encouragement when she needed it most. “Each chemo session took a physical and emotional toll on me. It would take least a week to recover. I was scared every time. But I told myself I had to finish what I had started.” After nine rounds of chemotheraphy, Aisyah continues to take medication as part of her recovery. With graduation behind her, she now looks ahead to the classroom, and is open to being posted anywhere in the country. To others walking similar paths, her advice: “Keep fighting. If we give up too easily, those around us might lose strength too, because they often draw courage from us.” He said notices were also issued to two express bus drivers for driving in the right lane and for non-functioning emergency doors. – Bernama ‘Report faulty seat belts via RTD app’ KUALA LUMPUR: Express and tour bus passengers can file a complaint directly to the Road Transport Department (RTD) via the MyJPJ app if their safety belt is faulty. Kuala Lumpur RTD director Hamidi Adam said the complaint, which has to be accompanied by a photo or video and details of the bus journey to investigate the claim, can also be sent via email. He said it is the responsibility of bus drivers to remind passengers to fasten their seat belts before starting the journey. “This will improve the level of safety and reduce the risk of serious injuries in case of a crash.” Hamidi said this at a press conference during a special seat belt operation for express and tour buses at the Gombak toll plaza on Wednesday night. During the operation, 23 passengers – 20 locals and three foreigners – were issued compounds for not wearing seat belts.

Cabinet to receive report on sinkhole by year-end

Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Document to provide details of Jalan Masjid India incident, including probable causes such as burst sewage pipe or underground geological fault

involving 2,008 Year One pupils revealed that 55% had vision related issues. Of these, 88% were diagnosed with myopia, 4% colour blindness and 8% with squint conditions. Encouragingly, 92% of children who received corrective lenses through the programme reported marked improvements in communication, social confidence and learning outcomes. She called for a comprehensive impact study on the programme to be finalised and brought to Cabinet, underscoring her belief in evidence-based policymaking. “Policies cannot be made just from a meeting room. Getting down to the ground, as we are doing today, is the best formula to design policy that reflects the reality of the people.” Zaliha also proposed incorporating vision screening into Year One orientation nationwide, to catch issues early and disrupt the cycle of educational disadvantage. To support the host school, she announced an allocation of RM10,000 for excellence and enrichment programmes at SK Seri Bintang Utara. She also affirmed the Federal Territories’ commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind, regardless of background. government’s deep understanding of the financial needs of our student teachers, particularly those studying at IPGM,” she said during the 15th IPGM convocation ceremony at the Bangi Convention Centre yesterday. The ceremony was held for 5,390 graduates who successfully completed their teaching degree programme. The centralised convocation recognised graduates of the Bachelor of Teaching (June 2021 intake) from 28 IPGM campuses nationwide, including from the English Language Teaching Centre. Fadhlina added that through the Teacher Book Voucher initiative, the ministry seeks to empower educators by encouraging continuous reading and knowledge enhancement. “This year, a total of 430,000 educators will benefit from RM100 book vouchers, with the redemption period running from now until Sept 30. “The initiative represents a meaningful step in fostering lifelong learning among educators and aims to strengthen the culture of reading,” she said. Fadhlina also noted that entry pathways into IPGM have now been expanded to include students with STPM, Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia and Tahfiz Ulul Albab backgrounds. “Being a teacher is not easy. Every educator must ignite and sustain a genuine passion for the teaching profession,” she added.

KUALA LUMPUR: The federal government will present a full report to the Cabinet by year-end on the sinkhole incident at Jalan Masjid India in August last year, and will also tighten screening for applicants of the People’s Housing Project (PHP) in the Federal Territories. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said her ministry had just received the report, which will clarify how the sinkhole originated, including whether a burst sewage pipe or underground geological fault was to blame. The 8m wide depression appeared at 8.22am on Aug 23 last year, swallowing Indian tourist Vijayalakshmi Gali, whose body was never recovered. She was declared legally dead on Sept 1, 2024. Days later, amid heavy rain, a second sinkhole formed about 50m from the original site, prompting Kuala Lumpur City Hall to cordon off the road. Rescue efforts included high tech ground-penetrating radar and sewer-jetting machinery but were ultimately called off when the area

liveability of low-income housing blocks. Zaliha, a trained doctor, earlier outlined the goals of the Mata Hati Wilayah initiative, which seeks to tackle children’s vision problems as the first step toward reducing inequality in schools. She cited a 2023 Health Ministry study in which 30% of preschoolers screened were found to have vision issues, with most unaware of their condition. “Children with undetected vision problems may struggle academically and suffer from low self-confidence, affecting their long-term development.” Referring to the World Health Organisation world report on vision, she noted that from early childhood through adolescence, vision plays a key role in accessing educational materials and achieving academic success. Zaliha said eye screening conducted in 2024 at five schools

was deemed unsafe. “We are looking into several other factors that may have contributed to the incident,” Zaliha told reporters after launching the Mata Hati Wilayah 2025 programme at SK Seri Bintang Utara yesterday. Zaliha also revealed tighter verification processes for PHP applications in response to surging demand. “We are enforcing stricter vetting to ensure that only those truly in need receive the units.” It was reported that there was a serious mismatch between supply and demand – homes priced under RM200,000 make up less than 20% of recent launches, while housing backlog continues to grow. Beyond allocation challenges, many PHP residents also face persistent issues such as malfunctioning lifts, poor sanitation, vandalism and limited amenities – all of which affect the

Teacher shortage addressed through strategic reforms

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

seeing a significant increase in applications to the Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia (IPGM), reflecting renewed interest and trust in the teaching profession. “I would also like to congratulate our future educators. The teacher trainee allowance has been increased, reflecting the

long-standing issue of teacher shortage in Malaysia. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry remains committed to tackling the issue through various mechanisms, particularly by deploying qualified teachers who meet the specific needs of students. “Encouragingly, we are now

BANGI: Strategic reforms introduced through collaboration between the Education Ministry and the Education Service Commission have successfully addressed the

Fadhlina at the IPGM convocation ceremony yesterday in which more than 5,000 graduates received their credentials in the teaching degree programme. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

FRIDAY | JULY 4, 2025

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Plastic bag use prevalent despite impact to environment

Efforts launched to preserve seagrass

MERSING: Pulau Setindan in Mersing has become the starting point for initial efforts to map the increasingly threatened seagrass in the area, paving the way for future marine ecosystem preservation efforts in these waters. Seagrass Ecotourism Experience Programme chief researcher Associate Professor Dr Jilian Ooi said mapping activities of the seagrass fields on the island are being carried out to assess changes in the area. She explained that the location was chosen because the seagrass is easily accessible on foot without needing a boat, unlike other areas such as Sungai Pulai and Sungai Johor. “I want to map the seagrass here because no one has done it before, so we don’t know whether this area is experiencing a decline or not. In addition, we also want to examine how the seagrass roots grow and whether they are in healthy condition,”she said at the launch of the programme at KampungStay Teluk Buih yesterday. Ooi said the programme also emphasises the importance of conserving seagrass as a crucial habitat for dugongs, which have become increasingly rare since 2005. “If we ask the villagers, they say that seagrass has been decreasing because the water quality is less clean, among other factors. “Some say dugongs were abundant in 2005 but are now hard to spot, possibly because the seagrass has decreased. The reduction of this marine plant indirectly affects the dugong’s natural habitat,” she said. Meanwhile, Yayasan JCorp, chief executive officer Zaidatul Zurita Abdul Rahman said they remain committed to preserving Johor’s marine ecosystem through the two-day programme in the waters off Mersing. She said the initiative continues marine conservation efforts by Yayasan JCorp that began in 2023 through a coral reef rehabilitation project. – Bernama Perak finalises village chief appointments IPOH: The Perak government has completed the appointment of 658 out of 828 traditional village chiefs under the first phase, with the remaining to receive their appointment letters soon. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the second phase, involving 170 villages, would be carried out following grassroots feedback and certain changes on the ground. He said previous issues included village chiefs not residing in the communities they were tasked to manage as well as factors such as age and health. “These criteria have been set to ensure that village chiefs can function effectively. Each chief may serve only until the age of 65 and will not be reappointed beyond that age. “We want our village chiefs to be in good health. If they have serious health issues, we will have to replace them with other individuals in the second phase,” he said after launching the Perak Orang Asli Community Symposium 2025 on Wednesday. – Bernama

o Expert urges stricter policies, incentives and community action to curb single-use pollutants

She urged for introduction of creative incentives, such as discounts for customers who bring their own bags and a continued investment in sustainable public education through community leaders, religious centres and local halls. “Banning low-density polyethylene plastic at community events and replacing it with compostable plastics could also be a practical step,” she said. Above all, Marfiah stressed the importance of partnerships. “Strategic collaboration between government, industry and the public can drive meaningful, lasting change,” she said. This could include funding research grants to better understand consumer habits, involving communities directly in policy committees and building knowledge-sharing platforms so the public feels informed and engaged. She also encouraged the creation of local knowledge hubs where communities can learn about the 5R concept – refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle – while running hands-on workshops to turn waste into valuable products. “If people feel ownership of the solutions, they are more likely to participate.”. As International Plastic Bag Free Day was marked yesterday, Marfiah reminded Malaysians that protecting the environment begins with individual action. “We only have one planet Earth, and we cannot continue a lifestyle that destroys it. Change begins with each of us. Love the Earth and protect it from plastic pollution,” she said.

plastic policies. Yet in areas with weaker enforcement or limited incentives, dependence on single-use plastics remains high. Marfiah identified several barriers to change. “The public is accustomed to receiving free plastic bags while shopping, and changing that routine feels inconvenient, especially when buying groceries in bulk,” she said. Inconsistent enforcement and the widespread practice among smaller businesses of handing out plastic bags freely further compound the problem. “Our culture and lifestyle also play a role, with spontaneous shopping trips and frequent purchases from night markets or hawker stalls where plastics are handed out without question,” she added. Government efforts, however, have not been without success. Marfiah highlighted campaigns such as “Say No To Plastic Bags” in Johor, Selangor and Penang, which have helped shift attitudes, particularly among urban residents. “School and community programmes foster early habits among students and families, which is encouraging,” she noted. To help Malaysia transition away from single-use plastics, Marfiah proposed a multi pronged approach. “First, policies replacing single-use plastic bags with reusable options must apply to all retailers, big and small, including hawker stalls and night markets,” she said, adding that mandatory charges on all plastic bags could also push consumers to change habits.

Ű BY DEEPALAKSHMI MANICKAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians are aware of the environmental damage caused by plastic bags, but meaningful behavioural change still lags behind, according to Universiti Teknologi Mara Faculty of Civil Engineering associate professor Dr Marfiah Ab Wahid. “Public awareness in Malaysia about the environmental impact of plastic bags has improved significantly over the past 10 years,” she said, citing government campaigns, media coverage, school education and rising global concern as key drivers. However, she warned that despite this awareness, many people remain attached to single-use plastics. “Plastic bags are convenient. People understand the harm, particularly to marine biodiversity, but their habits are hard to break,” Marfiah explained. She noted that states with strong enforcement, such as Selangor and Penang, have made progress through bans and plastic bag charges. Malacca has also introduced biodegradable

Marfiah said plastic bags are convenient and although people understand the harm, their habits are hard to break. – BERNAMAPIC

‘Time of Use’ scheme helps consumers manage energy consumption KUALA LUMPUR: Domestic and non-domestic low-voltage consumers using smart meters now have the opportunity to benefit from the Time of Use (ToU) scheme, aimed at helping them manage daily energy consumption more efficiently. “With the option to schedule electricity usage during cheaper off peak hours, consumers can now proactively reduce their monthly bills without compromising comfort,” said Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) on its official website. off-peak periods, the entire day on Saturdays and Sundays as well as from 10pm to 2pm the following day on weekdays (Monday to Friday). Peak hours are from 2pm to 10pm on weekdays. (kWh) and below is set at 24.43 sen/kWh. Meanwhile, the peak energy charge for the same monthly usage is 28.52 sen/kWh for ToU consumers, compared with 27.03 sen/kWh for general domestic consumers,” the website explained.

Applications to switch to the ToU scheme can be submitted starting July 1 by emailing the completed application form and required documents to tnbtou@tnb.com.my or by visiting the nearest Kedai Tenaga. Online applications via the myTNB portal will be available from Aug 1. For more information, visit www.mytnb.com.my/tariff or contact TNB CareLine at 1300-88-5454. Information and assistance are also available at all Kedai Tenaga branches nationwide. – Bernama

For instance, consumers who shift the use of household appliances such as washing machines, air conditioners or electric vehicle chargers to off-peak hours may enjoy savings on their electricity bills. “The off-peak energy charge for monthly usage of 1,500 kilowatt hours

To help users better understand potential savings, TNB has introduced an online electricity bill calculator on the myTNB portal. Consumers can select their preferred tariff and estimate their bill before deciding to switch to the ToU scheme.

The initiative is part of the Energy Commission’s recent announcement of a new electricity tariff structure that allows consumers to shift their usage to more affordable off-peak periods. The ToU scheme has been revised and expanded to include longer

According to the official myTNB website, the ToU scheme, also available to customers with current transformer operated meters or remote meter reading systems, offers greater flexibility for users to manage their energy usage according to their individual needs.

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Probe on mortar bomb found near PLUS highway IPOH: Police are investigating the origin of a mortar bomb found near Km265 of the North-South Expressway (PLUS) southbound, near the Menora Tunnel, that was safely detonated on June 30. Perak police chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said investigators are ascertaining how the 81mm mortar bomb, classified as an “unexploded ordnance”, ended up at the location and whether it was a remnant from World War II. “It has been confirmed as a mortar bomb, referred to as a ‘blind’, which means an explosive device that failed to detonate,” he said after officiating at the rank conferment ceremony for senior police officers and the handing over of duties for the head of the Internal Security and Public Order Department, as well as the Gerik and Kerian district police chiefs. The event was held at the Perak senior police officers’ mess on Wednesday. The bomb was discovered by a PLUS employee who was carrying out landscaping work at the location. Following the discovery, the Bomb Disposal Unit from the Perak police contingent headquarters, assisted by the Ipoh district police headquarters, promptly carried out a controlled detonation. Noor Hisam also apologised to road users for the 15km traffic congestion caused by the bomb disposal operation. “Due to concerns that the explosive might still be active, precautionary measures had to be taken,” he said. – Bernama Over 5,000 cops on duty for Asean meetings KUALA LUMPUR: Police have deployed 5,121 personnel to ensure the smooth and safe organisation of the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings, to be held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from July 8 to 11. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department director Datuk Seri Azmi Abu Kassim said a detailed security plan has been prepared and continuous monitoring would be conducted to ensure the meetings are held smoothly and in an orderly manner. “We have taken appropriate measures to ensure preparedness ahead of this event, and the main focus is on the security of VIPs, traffic control and handling emergencies. “The teams will also use sophisticated technology such as facial recognition systems and explosives detection to ensure (safety),” Azmi told Bernama yesterday. He said police will combine forces of various departments and units, including the Kuala Lumpur Police Contingent Headquarters, Management Department, Federal Reserve Force, Special Operations Unit, VAT69 Commandos and the Special Branch. He said apart from the main meeting location, security controls will also be extended to other important areas, including the KL International Airport.

The three suspects being taken into the Magistrate’s Court yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Remand extended for trio linked to Cyberjaya murder

to know the victim personally. They were arrested within 48 hours of the murder during police operations in Johor Bahru and Gemencheh in Negeri Sembilan, involving teams from Bukit Aman, Selangor police and the Sepang district police headquarters. The 20-year-old victim, a Bachelor of Physiotherapy student from Kuching, Sarawak, was found dead in her condominium unit at Mutiara Ville in Cyberjaya at about 10am on June 24 by a friend. She had been staying with five housemates, who had returned to their hometowns for the holidays on June 21, leaving her alone in the unit. Police said she was preparing for an upcoming exam at the time. The case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder and is expected to be referred to the deputy public prosecutor soon. Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the matter came up briefly at Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He said it was not discussed in detail, only mentioned briefly as an update, echoing what Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had said during the Prime Minister’s Department monthly assembly on Monday. At the assembly, Anwar said any service extensions, including for top judges, must follow proper constitutional procedures. He also denied interfering in judicial appointments, responding to public calls for Tengku Maimun’s term to be extended.

object to fatally assault the victim. A post-mortem confirmed the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head. Although a pathology report found no evidence of rape, police have not ruled out the possibility of sexual assault. “We are still investigating to determine whether any form of sexual assault occurred,” Hussein said, noting that the motive for the killing remains under investigation. Following the incident, the main suspect allegedly stole several of the victim’s belongings, including her laptop, mobile phone and ATM card. According to Sepang police chief Asst Comm Norhizam Bahaman on June 26, five to six ATM transactions were detected across Cyberjaya shortly after the murder, with RM200 withdrawn using the victim’s card. All three suspects are believed “The Malaysian Judiciary remains steadfast in its role as the guardian of justice and will continue to serve the people and nation with unwavering dedication,” it said. The move follows the retirement of Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat on Wednesday, leaving the top post vacant with no successor announced to date. Constitutional provisions require the most senior Federal Court judge to step in when the chief justice role is unfilled or the incumbent is unable to serve. The Courts of Judicature Act also provides a legal framework for this transition, ensuring continuity at the top of the judiciary. On Wednesday, Communications

o Magistrate orders man and two women to be detained for another seven days to facilitate investigation into death of university student

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Comm Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said one of the suspects was the victim’s housemate. Investigations revealed she had given her boyfriend, now identified as the main suspect, access to the unit while she was away. “The suspect had stayed at the unit before. On the night of the murder, he was given the access card and keys to stay there again while his girlfriend was in her hometown,” Hussein said. He added that the suspect had harboured ill intentions towards the deceased and used a blunt PETALING JAYA: Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Hasnah Mohammed Hashim ( pic ) has stepped in as acting chief justice, taking on full responsibilities of the top judicial role until a permanent appointment is made. Hasnah, who joined the Federal Court in December 2019, was appointed the 14th chief judge of Malaya on Nov 12 last year. Her temporary role is in line with Article 131A of the Federal Constitution and sections 9(1)(b) and 9(3) of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964, said the Office of the Chief Registrar yesterday.

PETALING JAYA: The remand order for three suspects linked to the murder of a university student in Cyberjaya has been extended by another seven days from today until July 10. Magistrate Khairatul Animah Jelani had previously approved the extension until yesterday for the trio – a man and two women aged between 19 and 20. The initial remand order was issued on June 27. At a press conference on Tuesday, Selangor police chief

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com Chief judge temporarily takes over top judiciary role

FRIDAY | JULY 4, 2025

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Tamil filmmakers starting to shine

KUALA Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas) CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib said young film directors transitioning from digital platforms to the silver screen are playing a key role in raising the quality of local Tamil cinema. He said the new generation of creators has demonstrated an ability to deliver fresh, high quality stories, a sign of positive development in the Malaysian film industry. “The film I watched recently, Mirugasirisham , showcases the kind of quality often seen in works by first-time filmmakers. These are people who started out creating content for social media and now, they’re making films and the results are impressive,” he told Bernama. Azmir expressed admiration for the storytelling, direction and performances, adding that the quality was on par with Tamil movies from India. “The problem is this film hasn’t been widely promoted. Many of our viewers believe watching local films in cinemas isn’t worth it. But they should support these screenings, because the quality of o Quality of movies feature good storytelling, direction and performances on par with productions from India: Finas LUMPUR: National

our local productions is now truly (commendable),” he said. He also said Finas is inclusive in its support for local film development, regardless of language or genre. “We engage with the industry, including Tamil filmmakers, to understand current issues and trends.” He added that the improvement in quality and reception of local Tamil films is evident in the success of C4 Cinta , which recorded box office earnings of more than RM2.5 million last year. He also announced that the team behind the film Jagat is set to release two new projects this year. Mirugasirisham producer Dr Sai Suthan Krishnan said despite receiving good reviews from critics and audiences, local Tamil films have continued to record disappointing box office figures. “There are many emerging talents in Malaysia who are waiting for the right opportunity to showcase their filmmaking skills and tell stories that reflect our roots. “We discovered a script by Vijay Ganesh and a talented young team at Sage Heroes. With a passionate cast and crew, Mirugasirisham came to life after two years in production.” Sai Suthan also said the film has received positive feedback, with viewers praising its storytelling and technical execution. “Producers and filmmakers rely on box office statistics to inspire confidence among potential investors. It encourages them to support the next generation of filmmakers in creating works of international quality.”

Sai Suthan said Mirugasirisham received positive feedback, with viewers praising its storytelling and technical execution. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Malacca keen to revive ronggeng MALACCA: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the state government welcomes an initiative by local artistes to revive the traditional ronggeng dance as a potential cultural tourism attraction. Islamic principles. “The idea of reviving ronggeng , or joget lambak as it is also known, is very interesting because it originated in Malacca but has been largely forgotten. So, we will (bring back) this traditional dance in an impromptu style, as long as it does not contravene hukum syarak (Islamic law).” He added that the proposal would be viewed with careful consideration to ensure the dance is promoted without violating

Department and several other parties. He also said ronggeng has artistic value and could be elevated as a state cultural asset alongside dondang sayang . “The dance incorporates pantun (traditional Malay rhyming verse), which helps promote and preserve Malay literary and performing arts.” – Bernama

He was speaking to reporters after officiating at the closing ceremony of the Bicara Seni Budaya discourse, held in conjunction with the Rentak Bertandak Antarabangsa Melaka cultural programme on Wednesday. Ab Rauf said the ronggeng dance revival could be carried out in collaboration with the Malacca branch of the National Culture and Arts

FRIDAY | JULY 4, 2025

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38 missing after ferry bound for Bali sinks

CHINA ON ALERT AFTER DEADLY FLOODS BEIJING: China’s north and west braced for flash floods and landslides yesterday as annual “Plum Rains” left a trail of destruction and prompted the mobilisation of thousands of rescue workers to pull people from floodwaters. State media said in the town of Taiping in central China’s Henan province on Wednesday, torrential rains caused a nearby river to burst its banks, killing five people in a flash flood and leaving three missing. By yesterday, some trains into the capital Beijing had been suspended while one of the capital city’s airports saw flight delays and cancellations on Wednesday. In China’s province of Guangxi, several buildings slid down hillsides over the last two days after their foundations gave way in waterlogged soil, local media reported. – Reuters NZ BRACES FOR MORE HEAVY RAIN WELLINGTON: The north of New Zealand’s South Island was bracing for more heavy rain yesterday, with a few homes evacuated and local authorities warning of landslides and surface flooding. New Zealand’s Nelson and Tasman regions were hit by heavy rain over the weekend, which caused significant flooding in rural areas and resulted in a local state of emergency being declared to deal with the disaster. Further heavy rain is forecast for the regions as a wild weather system that pummelled Sydney on Tuesday and Wednesday moved towards New Zealand. National weather forecaster Metservice yesterday issued a heavy rain warning for the Nelson and Tasman regions from morning to evening. – Reuters I.S. BLAST KILLS FOUR IN PAKISTAN PESHAWAR: An explosion in northwest Pakistan killed at least four local government officials and police, and injured 11 on Wednesday, an officer told AFP, in an attack claimed by a branch of the Islamic State group. Senior police official Waqas Rafiq said the officials were travelling in a car in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province when “the attack happened in a market in Bajaur city”. Hours later, the Islamic State Khorasan extremist group claimed to have detonated an explosives-laden moped that targeted the vehicle. The deadly blast comes four days after 16 soldiers were killed in the same province in an attack claimed by the Pakistan Taliban, which is active in the area. – AFP one Cambodian soldier. When she made a diplomatic call to Cambodian ex-leader Hun Sen, she called him“uncle”and referred to a Thai military commander as her“opponent”, according to a leaked recording, causing widespread backlash. A conservative party abandoned her ruling coalition, sparking the Cabinet reshuffle, accusing her of kowtowing to Cambodia and undermining the military. The Constitutional Court said there was “sufficient cause to suspect” Paetongtarn breached ministerial ethics in the diplomatic spat. – AFP

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In March, a boat carrying 16 people capsized in rough waters off Bali, killing an Australian woman and injuring at least one other person. A ferry carrying more than 800 people ran aground in shallow waters off East Nusa Tenggara province in 2022 and remained stuck for two days before being dislodged, with no one hurt. In 2018, more than 150 people drowned when a ferry sank in one of the world’s deepest lakes on Sumatra island. – AFP

It is unclear if any foreigners were onboard when the ferry sank. Rescuers said they are assessing if there were more people onboard than the ferry’s manifest showed. It is common in Indonesia for the actual number of passengers on a ferry to differ from the manifest. Marine incidents are a regular occurrence in Indonesia, a Southeast Asian archipelago of around 17,000 islands, in part due to lax safety standards and sometimes due to bad weather.

o 23 survivors rescued, four dead: Police chief

HONG KONG: first domestically built aircraft carrier sailed into Hong Kong yesterday, just days after the city marked 28 years under Chinese rule. Commissioned in 2019, the more than 300m Shandong is China’s second carrier and key to the country’s regional ambitions under President Xi Jinping, who oversaw a massive naval buildup that has rattled Asian neighbours. Beijing earlier announced that the Shandong and its escort vessels, which include the destroyer Zhanjiang and frigate Yuncheng , would visit the Chinese finance hub for five days and host “tours and cultural exchange activities”. The flotilla was spotted yesterday morning sailing off the southern China’s DENPASAR: At least four people died and dozens were unaccounted for yesterday after a ferry sank on its way to the resort island of Bali, according to local authorities, that said 23 survivors had been plucked from the water. Rescuers were racing to find 38 missing people in rough seas after the vessel carrying 65 passengers sank before midnight on Wednesday as it sailed to the popular holiday destination from Indonesia’s main island Java. “There are 23 rescued, four dead,” Banyuwangi police chief Rama Samtama Putra told AFP in East Java, where the boat departed. President Prabowo Subianto, who was on a trip to Saudi Arabia, ordered an immediate emergency response, said Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya in a statement yesterday, adding that the cause of the incident was “bad weather”. Java-based Surabaya search and rescue agency head Nanang Sigit confirmed the same figures in a statement, and said efforts to reach the vessel were initially hampered by adverse weather conditions that have since cleared up. Waves as high as 2.5m with

coast of Hong Kong island. The Shandong visit comes days after it concluded combat drills in the western Pacific, alongside China’s first aircraft carrier the Liaoning . Both ships are of a modified Soviet design with a distinctive “ski jump” deck for aircraft takeoff. China’s third and more advanced carrier, the Fujian , is undergoing sea trials. Tickets to visit the vessels in Hong Kong were snapped up within minutes on WeChat. “The idea appears to impress upon the Hong Kong public the ruling (Chinese Communist Party’s) quest for building what is termed as the status of a maritime great power,“ said Singapore S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies naval affairs “strong winds and strong currents” had affected the rescue operation, he said. The agency had earlier said 61 people were missing and four rescued, without giving a cause for the sinking. “ KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya sank about 25 minutes after weighing anchor. The ferry’s manifest data totalled 53 passengers and 12 crew members.” A rescue team of at least 54 personnel, including from the navy and police, were despatched along with inflatable rescue boats, while a bigger vessel was later sent from Surabaya city to assist the search efforts. The ferry crossing from Ketapang port in Java’s Banyuwangi regency to Bali’s Gilimanuk port, one of the busiest in Indonesia, is around 5km as the crow flies and takes around one hour. Four of the known survivors saved themselves by using the ferry’s lifeboat and were found in the water early yesterday, the rescue agency said. It added that the ferry was also transporting 22 vehicles, including 14 trucks.

Family members waiting for updates on the search operation. – AFPPIC

Chinese aircraft carrier arrives in Hong Kong

University of Singapore said China’s latest exercises suggested “both aircraft carriers are ready to engage in more sophisticated operations” but some unknowns remain, including the operational tempo they can bear. In April, the Shandong took part in drills testing the Chinese navy’s ability to “blockade” Taiwan, according to the Eastern Theatre Command. China insists that the self-ruled democracy is part of its territory and has refused to rule out seizing it by force. The Shandong was also reportedly present in Philippine waters in April during a joint US-Philippines military exercise, deepening tensions between Manila and Beijing. – AFP Phumtham earned the nickname “Big Comrade” for his association with a left-wing youth movement of the 1970s, but transitioned to politics through a role in Thaksin’s telecoms empire. In previous Cabinets, he held the defence and commerce portfolios, and spent a spell as acting prime minister after a crisis engulfed the top office last year. Paetongtarn has been hobbled over a long-standing territorial dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, which boiled over into cross-border clashes in May, killing

specialist Collin Koh. The Shandong is the second Chinese aircraft carrier to visit Hong Kong, following a 2017 visit by the Liaoning . China has rapidly upgraded its naval forces as it seeks to expand its reach in the Pacific and challenge a US-led alliance. The US Defence Department said in a December report that numerically, China has the largest navy in the world, with a battle force of more than 370 ships and submarines. Japan authorities said China’s dual-carrier exercise last month was the first of its kind and reflected intentions to improve operational capabilities in distant areas. Chong Ja Ian of the National

Another acting prime minister confirmed in Thailand BANGKOK: Thailand’s deputy premier Phumtham Wechayachai was confirmed yesterday as the new caretaker prime minister, a government statement said. Tuesday when the Constitutional Court suspended Paetongtarn pending an ethics probe that could take months. Power passed to Transport Minister and Deputy Prime Minister comes as the kingdom is battling to revive a spluttering economy and secure a US trade deal averting US President Donald Trump’s looming threat of a 36% tariff. Phumtham is considered a loyal lieutenant to the suspended

Phumtham, 71, is a veteran Pheu Thai Party politician who has long worked with the influential former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra, the driving force in the current government. Phumtham takes the role following a court order of suspension from duty this week of Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The Southeast Asian nation’s top office was plunged into turmoil on

Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who took office for one day, as the bombshell was dropped in an awkward interim ahead of a reshuffle. Before Paetongtarn was ousted, she assigned herself the role of culture minister in the new Cabinet, meaning she is set to keep a perch in the upper echelons of power. The revolving door of leadership

Paetongtarn and her father Thaksin, the patriarch of a dynasty that has dominated Thai 21st-century politics. Thaksin-linked parties have been jousting with the pro-military, pro-conservative establishment since the early 2000s, but analysts say the family’s political brand has begun to decline.

FRIDAY | JULY 4, 2025

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Judge blocks asylum ban at US-Mexico border

Seven unaccounted for after explosion LOS ANGELES: Seven people remained missing on Wednesday in California, a day after a fireworks warehouse explosion injured two victims and sparked a huge blaze. The explosion occurred on Tuesday evening after a fire broke out in a warehouse located in the town of Esparto, in the northern part of the state. “Seven individuals remain unaccounted for. First responders and investigators are working diligently with the property owner to determine the whereabouts of those individuals,“ the California firefighting agency said in a statement. The injured have been located and are out of danger, according to authorities. However, firefighters have not been able to access the warehouse because the fireworks held inside could still explode. Esparto Fire Chief Curtis Lawrence called the situation “very complex and risky”. “There were reports of a debris field of large pieces of shrapnel spread out across a large area,“ he told a press conference. “We maintained a wide perimeter around this area and kept our responders in a safe location.” The cautious response by authorities angered some relatives of the victims. A woman interrupted the press conference and complained that she had no information about her boyfriend and two brothers-in-law who were among the missing. She accused the firefighters of not “focusing on the people who are stuck in the warehouse, possibly dead”. “People have possibly lost their lives because of you guys not doing your job well enough,“ said the woman, who did not identify herself. Following the incident, several nearby towns announced they would have to cancel their fireworks displays scheduled for today, when America celebrates Independence Day. “This type of incident is very rare as facilities such as this are required to not only follow our stringent California pyrotechnic requirements, but also federal explosive storage requirements,“ the agency said in its statement. – AFP FIRES BLAZE IN TURKIYE IZMIR: Emergency crews continued to battle severe fires in the Turkish province of Yzmir, where planes and helicopters were being deployed against the flames on Wednesday, according to the German Press Agency. In the tourist region of Cepme, residents were attempting to extinguish fire hotspots using water hoses in the small coastal town of Ildir. Three residential areas were evacuated, Anadolu Ajansi reported. In recent days, fires in Yzmir have caused significant destruction, with 110 residential buildings either severely damaged or destroyed, disaster relief agency Afad reported. Nationwide, there have been hundreds of fires, most of which have been extinguished. – Bernama-dpa TAINTED MEAT KILLS CHILD PARIS: A series of serious cases of diarrhoea in northern France, with 29 children affected and one death, was caused by bacterially contaminated meat, officials said on Wednesday. Prefecture officials in the town of Saint-Quentin said the meat was distributed via five butcher’s shops that have since been closed by authorities, German Press Agency reported. Investigations into the butcher shops are continuing and the results will be forwarded to the public prosecutor’s office in Paris to identify those responsible. A rare form of acute kidney failure occurred in 10 of those affected, from which one 12-year-old died. The children developed haemolytic uraemic syndrome, which usually occurs as a result of an intestinal infection and leads to the formation of blood clots that affect the brain, heart and kidneys. – Bernama-dpa

o ‘Neither federal immigration law nor

Proclamation and implementing guidance,” wrote Moss, an appointee of former president Barack Obama. “An appeal to necessity cannot fill that void.” The Trump administration has clashed with federal judges since Trump returned to office, particularly those ruling against his hardline immigration policies. In a statement, White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said Moss did not have the authority to constrain Trump’s actions to address illegal immigration and the administration would appeal. “A local district court judge has no authority to stop Trump and the United States from securing our border from the flood of aliens trying to enter illegally. We expect to be vindicated on appeal.” The US judiciary is one of three co-equal branches of government that include the executive and legislative branches, but Trump has tested that system of checks and balances. Lee Gelernt, a lead Aclu attorney working on the lawsuit, said the ruling would help ensure protections for migrants fleeing danger. “The president cannot wipe away laws passed by Congress simply by claiming that asylum seekers are invaders.” – Reuters

brought the challenge to Trump’s asylum ban in February on behalf of three advocacy groups and migrants denied access to asylum, arguing that the broad ban violated US laws and international treaties. Trump’s border restrictions went beyond a similar ban put in place by former president Joe Biden, a Democrat, last year. Key parts of the Biden ban were blocked by a separate federal judge in May in a lawsuit also led by Aclu. Moss said he would stay the effective date of a related order for 14 days to allow the Trump administration to appeal. The decision applies to migrants who were subject to Trump’s ban or could be in the future, part of a certified class in the litigation. Such class certifications remain unaffected by last week’s Supreme Court decision reining in nationwide injunctions. Moss ruled that neither federal immigration law nor the US Constitution gives Trump the authority to disregard existing laws and regulations governing the asylum process, even if stopping illegal immigration presented “enormous challenges”. “Nothing in the (Immigration and Nationality Act 1952) or the Constitution grants the president or his delegees the sweeping authority asserted in the

Constitution gives authority to disregard existing laws’

WASHINGTON:

A federal judge on

Wednesday President Donald Trump’s asylum ban at the US-Mexico border, saying Trump exceeded his authority when he issued a proclamation declaring illegal immigration an emergency and setting aside existing legal processes. US district judge Randolph Moss said in a 128-page opinion Trump’s Jan 20 proclamation blocking migrants “engaged in the invasion across the southern border” from claiming asylum or other humanitarian protections went beyond his executive power. The ruling is a setback for Trump, a Republican who recaptured the White House by promising a vast immigration crackdown. Since Trump took office, the number of migrants caught crossing illegally has plummeted to record lows. The American Civil Liberties Union (Aclu) blocked US

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VENERATED VISIT ... Emine Erdogan, wife of Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, meeting Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Wednesday. – REUTERSPIC

Diddy acquitted of most serious charges NEW YORK: The federal jury in the New York trial of Sean“Diddy”Combs found him guilty of prostitution-related offences but acquitted him of the more serious charges of racketeering, conspiracy and sex trafficking, US media reported on Wednesday, after more than 13 hours of deliberations. The court was due to decide on Wednesday whether Combs would remain free until the sentence is handed down. Combs heard the verdict in the courtroom in the presence of his mother and sister.

prosecutorial offices. Lawyers had accused the hip-hop artiste of abusing, threatening and coercing women into satisfying his sexual desires over several years. During the trial, several women reported years of serious sexual and physical abuse. Combs had denied all allegations. The charge of conspiracy to commit racketeering was created for gang crime, such as that committed by the Mafia, and was used in the trial against singer R. Kelly to expose a systematic structure of sexual abuse. The prosecution was unable to convince the jury that Combs had acted in concert with a network of insiders. – Bernama-dpa

According to media reports, after the verdict was announced, Combs clapped his hands, smiled, shook hands with one of his lawyers and quietly whispered his thanks to the jury. Doug Wigdor, lawyer for main witness Cassie Ventura, said his client had “exemplary courage throughout the trial”. The federal case was brought by the US district court for the Southern District of New York, considered one of the nation’s top federal

The 55-year-old faces up to 20 years’ jail but not life imprisonment, as he would have faced if he had been found guilty on all counts, the German Press Agency reported. The sentence for Combs, who has been in custody since September, will be announced at a later date. He was found guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.