25/07/2025

Suhakam report reveals inhumane conditions at Malaysian prisons Critical overcrowding, inmate deaths, abuse and systemic neglect

FRIDAY JULY 25, 2025

RM1

documented, with former deputy minister describing findings as ‘dark side of justice system’.

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

Report on — page 3

SCAN ME No. 8862 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Anti-poverty commitment While data shows progress in reducing destitution, govt pushing for enhanced collaboration between public and private sectors to remove struggles of hardcore poor.

Report on — page 2

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the goal of the Cabinet is to put a stop to extreme poverty via a whole-of-nation approach. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

National Scam Response Centre to expand capacity and provide better support mechanisms for public with move to purpose-built facility in Cyberjaya. RM1.5 billion in fraud-related losses trigger major operational upgrade

Cops identify six Malaysians held in Cambodia in bid to smuggle 60kg ganja

Suspects detained at Phnom Penh International Airport aged between 27 and 70, with possible links to international syndicates: Bukit Aman NCID director

Report on — page 3

Report on — page 6

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

FOLLOW

ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper

2

@thesundaily

Sejahtera Madani initiative launched to rid poverty o Govt pushing for greater public-private sector partnerships to deliver sustainable support for income generation, education, housing and welfare: PM Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

ISTANBUL: Malaysia is targeting the transfer of defence technology from Turkiye in several identified areas by the end of this year, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He said technology transfer is crucial for developing the country’s defence industry led by local companies, particularly in areas such as management systems, maintenance, repair and overhaul of naval weaponry and the operation of unmanned aircraft systems. “We have identified Malaysian companies that will meet with companies from Turkiye to work PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hit back at critics of the RM100 cash aid under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah scheme, urging Malaysians to see it through the eyes of struggling households that depend on every ringgit to get by. “Some might say, ‘it is just RM100’. If you earn RM20,000 or RM40,000 a month, of course it seems minor. “I’ve seen first-hand how much it matters in rural areas,” said Anwar, who is also the finance minister, during the Finance Ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday. He pointed out that the RM100 is part of a wider, phased financial support framework. For a household comprising a married couple and two adult children, total assistance is RM400, and when combined with Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah payments, the figure could rise to RM700. “The main issue isn’t how much we allocate, it’s how well we manage it. We must end the culture of boros (extravagance) and sakau (misappropriation).” Responding to a criticism from the Opposition on the policy to stop subsidies for foreigners, Anwar didn’t hold back. “We’ve been clear that foreigners will have to pay market prices. That’s our policy. But then opposition leader (Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin) questioned why we are burdening them. I find that baffling. What do you expect us to do? “He’s free to criticise me. I don’t mind. But it’s strange how, in Malaysia, some people act as if we’re oppressing others or taking away their rights. This isn’t about taxing them, it’s about subsidies. “We’re not imposing fuel taxes. We are simply removing the 50 sen per litre subsidy we’ve been providing. And only for foreigners, not Malaysians. In their own countries – Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia – fuel prices are already over RM2.50 per litre. “We’re merely aligning with global market norms. Yet even that becomes a point of contention.” Anwar said the government remains committed to targeted subsidies, especially for the B40 group, and is now extending benefits to the M40 group as well, through initiatives such as reduced toll rates and lower fuel prices. He highlighted the recent deferral of toll hikes on 10 major highways and the planned reduction of RON95 fuel to RM1.99 per litre. “M40 families that drive more and use toll roads more often will feel the difference. These aren’t short-term populist handouts. They are deliberate, meaningful steps forward.” “These measures – RM100 cash aid, toll deferments and fuel price cuts – won’t fix everything overnight. But they show our commitment to responsible, people-first governance, rolled out in time for Merdeka and Malaysia Day.” Anwar hits back at critics of RM100 cash aid Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for deeper collaboration between the public and private sectors to eradicate hardcore poverty, stressing that targeted interventions must be consistent, inclusive and sustained. Launching the Sejahtera Madani initiative (Malaysia Madani People’s Well-being Initiative) at Kompleks Seri Perdana yesterday, he said while data points to progress in tackling extreme poverty, the government is pushing for more, via a whole-of-nation approach. “Our goal, as a Cabinet, is to begin putting a full stop to hardcore poverty. Based on data from 2023 and 2024, we have managed to reduce it significantly, although the full figures will be released later.” A total of 306,403 heads of households are registered in the national eKasih system as of July 15, according to the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) under the Prime Minister’s Department. Of these, 1,017 are categorised as hardcore poor while 305,386 fall under the poor category. The government has set a target of reducing poverty by 33% by the end of the year. The Sejahtera Madani initiative, spearheaded by the ICU, brings together ministries, agencies and corporate partners to deliver sustainable, high-impact support across four key pillars – income generation, education, housing and welfare. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said the initiative had exceeded expectations by raising nearly RM120 million, far surpassing its initial target of RM50 million. “I said if Sejahtera Madani could raise RM50 million, that would already be a success, and the government could top it up a bit. But today, the amount has not only doubled but also gone far beyond that. “The initiative has now raised nearly RM120 million. This is a meaningful project, and we want to drive this nation to become strong and great.” Several companies have stepped up to contribute to the Sejahtera Madani initiative, including Berjaya Corporation Bhd, which pledged RM10 million. A mock cheque was presented to Anwar by Berjaya Land Bhd deputy chairman Datuk Seri Robin Tan. Also present at the launch were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar. Anwar also acknowledged companies such as Westar, YTL, Telekom Malaysia, Tenaga Nasional and Petronas for their involvement in community efforts, including employment out suitable forms of collaboration and cooperation,” he said on Wednesday. Earlier, Mohamed Khaled held a meeting with the Secretariat of Defence Industries (SSB) president Prof Dr Haluk Gorgun, in conjunction with the ongoing International Defence Industry Fair 2025. The SSB is the agency responsible for managing Turkiye’s defence industry and military technology. Mohamed Khaled also held a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart Yasar Guler to discuss defence cooperation between the two countries,

Anwar, Ahmad Zahid and Shamsul Azri (with songkok) with Tan (left) and other contributors during the launching ceremony at Kompleks Seri Perdana in Putrajaya yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

PUTRAJAYA: Thirty-eight corporate entities have contributed close to RM120 million to the Sejahtera Madani fund under the national level initiative designed to assist poor and hardcore poor households registered in the eKasih national poverty database. Major corporate donors to the fund are: 0 Weststar Group – RM15 million; 0 Berjaya Corporation Bhd – RM10 million; 0 YTL Corporation Bhd – RM10 million; 0 MMC Corporation Bhd – RM10 million; 0 Genting Bhd – RM10 million; 0 DRB-Hicom Bhd – RM10 million; 0 Tradewinds Group (M) Sdn Bhd / Yayasan AlBukhary – RM10 million. Mid-tier contributors: 0 Sapura Secured Technologies – RM3 million; 0 YaPEIM (Yayasan Pembangunan Ekonomi Islam Malaysia) – RM2.61 million. Contributors of RM1 million: 0 Malaysia Resources Corporation Bhd, 0 Peninsular Medical Sdn Bhd; 0 Yinson Holdings Bhd; 0 WCT Bhd; 38 corporate entities donate total of RM120 million 0 Westports Malaysia Sdn Bhd. Contributors of RM500,000: 0 Selia Selenggara Selatan Sdn Bhd; 0 SD Guthrie Bhd; 0 Cypark Resources Bhd; 0 ITMAX System Bhd; 0 Nirvana Memorial Park Sdn Bhd. Others: 0 Fortress Mining Sdn Bhd – RM300,000; 0 Belati Wangsa (M) Sdn Bhd – RM250,000; 0 Petrolife Aero Sdn Bhd – RM200,000; 0 WZR Property Sdn Bhd – RM200,000; 0 AWC Bhd – RM200,000; 0 FGV Holdings Bhd – RM150,000; 0 Darul Fikir – RM100,000; 0 Farm Fresh Bhd – RM100,000; 0 Pharmaniaga Bhd – RM100,000; and 0 YHA Travel and Tours (M) Sdn Bhd – RM100,000.

initiatives, school repairs and technical training programmes. He said a standout example is the collaboration between companies and TVET institutions, enabling students to receive hands on training and industry exposure. “Some of the best models come from companies that work with TVET schools to uplift students through practical training and clear career pathways.” He described these efforts as more than symbolic, rejecting the term “adopted schools” and instead using “lifted schools”, where active involvement from top management inspires hope and motivation among underprivileged students. Anwar also addressed opposition criticism over the government’s RM1 billion allocation for school infrastructure, which he said had been misrepresented as solely for toilet upgrades. “Although we were mocked and accused of spending RM1 billion just to build school toilets, we have actually repaired 1,200 of them. “Just imagine. These were the toilets left in a state of disrepair in schools where our children and grandchildren study.” He clarified that the infrastructure effort is ongoing, with hundreds of millions also allocated to upgrading military housing. “We welcome any proposal that improves people’s lives. If a major development company says, ‘let us adopt this school, fund the repairs and manage the works ourselves,’ we’re all for it.” including the sending of Malaysian officers and personnel for training. “We discussed defence diplomacy approaches that both countries can leverage on to foster understanding with other nations and avoid conflicts.” He held bilateral talks with Azerbaijan’s Defence Industry Minister Vugar Mustafayev, during which they discussed challenges faced by Islamic countries in defence and military matters. He met Sudan’s Defence Minister Hassan Daoud Kayan and expressed Malaysia’s readiness to offer defence and military training. – Bernama

Defence technology transfer from Turkiye sought

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

3

Scam response centre gets major upgrade to fight menace

Whereabouts of Jho Low still

unconfirmed: Minister KUALA LUMPUR: There is no credible evidence confirming the whereabouts of fugitive financier Low Taek Jho, or Jho Low, who is alleged to be residing in the upscale Green Hills neighbourhood in Shanghai using a fake passport, says Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution. He said the police continue to work with international enforcement agencies to locate the key figure linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. “We have not found any solid evidence to confirm the claims about his location or the use of any particular passport.” His comments follow a recent report by investigative outlet Brazen which alleged that Low is living in China under the alias “Constantinos Achilles Veis” and is using a forged Australian passport. On July 19, investigative journalists Bradley Hope and Tom Wright, known for their early reporting on the 1MDB scandal, claimed that Low is residing in a mansion in Green Hills, based on newly obtained documents and multiple sources. The two, who were former Wall Street Journal reporters, had co-authored Billion Dollar Whale , a bestselling exposé chronicling Low’s alleged role in the scandal. They claimed that Low is acting as a covert strategist for the Chinese government, helping sanctioned Chinese companies navigate international restrictions. – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi ‘Rural schools not marginalised’ KUALA LUMPUR: The Education Ministry has assured that rural schools are not being left behind in the implementation of the national education digitalisation policy, said its deputy minister Wong Kah Woh. He said claims of marginalisation were inaccurate, noting that of the 110 schools involved in the hybrid pilot project, 41 were rural. “This demonstrates the ministry’s commitment to a fair and inclusive approach. “It clearly shows that in every initiative or project, the ministry ensures no school is marginalised in the digital transformation of education. “The ministry will also implement a pilot project for the Artificial Intelligence powered classroom involving 11 schools, including one in Sarawak, the Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Lanang,” he said during a question-and-answer in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday. – Bernama

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Facility to move to Cyberjaya with expanded staff, better tech and 24/7 multilingual support as cases surge

raised

from

RM1,000

to

RM10,000. “In the past, only an inspector could freeze an account under the Criminal Procedure Code, but now a sergeant has that authority. “We’ve simplified the process,” he added. Saifudin highlighted that the centre’s mechanisms will also be improved, including the ability to handle calls in four major languages – Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin and Tamil – to better serve the public. He said complaints received by NSRC fall into two categories: general inquiries and real scam cases, the latter involving financial fraud, such as online scams, phishing or malware. “The pattern of victims includes pensioners who have lost their retirement savings and working professionals. These are real financial crimes affecting everyday Malaysians. “The centre operates 24/7 to respond to public complaints but the convention enables 24/7 cooperation at the international level, facilitating intelligence exchange when cross-border incidents occur.” He also announced that Malaysia is set to sign the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime in Vietnam at the end of October, a move that will strengthen real-time information sharing between countries. Saifuddin added that the upcoming Asean Ministerial Meeting on security in September will list online scams as one of its 10 key agenda items, with emphasis on capacity building, intelligence sharing and coordinated operations among member states. “We will also intensify awareness campaigns as cybercrime is becoming increasingly sophisticated. “Enforcement, prevention and legislative updates must go hand in hand to ensure our efforts to combat scams and fraudulent activities are truly effective.” They are the cornerstone of justice, social harmony and shared prosperity. In Malaysia, these rights are firmly grounded in the Federal Constitution, specifically in Part Two, which outlines basic liberties from Articles 5 to 13.” Azalina said the government views the safeguarding of these rights as a fundamental obligation. “We believe that strengthening human rights is essential to building a peaceful, inclusive and progressive society.” She also stressed that the tabling and debate of Suhakam’s annual report was not merely procedural, but a vital component of Malaysia’s democratic accountability.

KUALA LUMPUR: With scam related losses climbing to RM1.5 billion and the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) fielding up to 500 calls a day, the government is ramping it up with a major operational upgrade. In September, the NSRC will relocate to a larger, purpose-built facility in Cyberjaya. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution said the move will allow the centre to function more effectively with increased staffing and better support mechanisms. “Alongside enforcement improvements and legislative amendments, public awareness programmes will be intensified to address the increasingly complex nature of scams,” he said during a press conference yesterday. Saifuddin said the new facility

temporary measure.” He added as of now, 18 officers are handling calls simultaneously, and this number will be increased in stages to meet growing demand. “The move will also involve the addition of 139 officers and greater inter-agency collaboration. “At present, the centre operates with four core agencies but two more – the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry and the Securities Commission Malaysia – will soon come on board.“ Saifuddin said the government amended several laws last year, including introducing Sections 424A and 424B in the Penal Code to increase penalties – with fines

offers a more spacious, accurate and conducive working environment which will allow the centre to centralise its key operations. He added that the premises will be equipped with all necessary components, including a physical complaints counter. “Currently, NSRC operations are supported by the police and other partner agencies. “In the initial phase, 40 personnel from the Commercial Crime Investigation Department will be assigned to the centre. “We are aware of the staffing shortage within the commercial crime unit, but we are making use of internal resources as a

The move to Cyberjaya will see an increase in staffing and operational capacity, allowing the NSRC to function more effectively, said Saifuddin (at rostrum). – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Suhakam report exposes overcrowding, abuse and deaths in prisons

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

untreated medical conditions or showed signs of physical abuse, he said. Earlier in the Dewan Rakyat, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said tabled the Suhakam report and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the principles of human rights and constitutional freedoms. She said this commitment was in line with the Malaysia Madani vision, which places human dignity and societal well-being at the heart of national governance. “Human rights remain a key national and international concern.

petition alleging they were beaten with PVC pipes for minor infractions. Even more disturbing, he said, were claims that instruments of torture had been deliberately hidden during visits by Suhakam. “The treatment of detainees, especially those on remand who have not been convicted, is deeply troubling. They are stripped naked, denied bathing and fed spoiled food. Complaints are met with violence. This is not justice — it is cruelty.” Ahmad Marzuk also highlighted the rising number of custodial deaths, revealing that 77 were recorded in 2023, including 11 within the prison system. Many of those who died had

allegations of torture and systemic neglect that have cost lives. “These are not mere statistics. These are lives, human faces we have forgotten,” he said, calling for urgent reform and accountability. According to the report, 42 prisons built to house 65,000 inmates are holding over 72,000 people. As of November last year, prison population had surged to 87,419 – far exceeding the system’s intended capacity of 65,000. “This is not just a logistical burden. This is a crisis of human dignity,” said Ahmad Marzuk. He pointed to troubling reports from a prison in the northern region, where 125 inmates had signed a

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s prisons are in a grip of “silent humanitarian crisis,” with overcrowding, inhumane treatment and rising deaths in custody, painting a grim picture of the country’s justice system, former deputy minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Ahmad Marzuk Shaary told Parliament yesterday. Citing the 2023 Suhakam Annual Report which was tabled in the Dewan Rakyat, Ahmad Marzuk described the findings as “a dark side of the justice system”, revealing prisons bursting beyond capacity, and

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

4

Clay mine operator pledges action after repeated floods

Maxim, Indrive to undergo monitoring KUALA LUMPUR: Two e-hailing operators, Aist Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Maxim) and ID Applications Sdn Bhd (InDrive), will undergo a three-month monitoring period starting yesterday, although being allowed to continue operating. The move aims to ensure full compliance with service conditions. In a statement, the Land Public Transport Agency said both companies are required to send representatives for monthly sessions at its headquarters throughout the monitoring period to demonstrate sustained commitment. “The frequency of attendance will be at the agency’s discretion, based on monitoring needs and ongoing issues,” it added. The sessions would enable real-time oversight, including random checks on drivers through the InDrive and Maxim apps. Stern action may be taken under Section 12A(5) of the Land Public Transport Act 2010 if any breach of service conditions is detected. On April 24, the agency issued a Notice of Business Mediation Licence cancellation to both operators, effective July 24, after an audit revealed non-compliance, particularly with the requirement for valid E-Hailing Vehicle Permits (EVP). The companies appealed to the Transport Ministry and were instructed to implement corrective measures by the cancellation date to continue their services. In response, both Maxim and InDrive upgraded their registration systems to ensure that only drivers with valid EVP are assigned jobs. They also provided the agency with “view only” access to internal data, enabling cross verification with official EVP records. – Bernama ‘Safety must come first in infrastructure projects’ GEORGE TOWN: Public safety must remain the top priority in the execution of infrastructure projects, especially as the government accelerates efforts to expand Malaysia’s public transport systems, said industry experts. Transport consultant Rosli Azad Khan and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (Utar) associate professor Bernard L.P. Saw said safety should be treated as a fundamental requirement throughout every phase of a project’s lifecycle, not as an afterthought. They emphasised that whether building rail lines, highways or transit hubs, safety must be embedded in the planning, approval and execution stages, and never compromised for speed or cost. “Public transport operations need to be fast and effective,” they added. “But when safety is not prioritised, it could cause major interruptions, physical damage, ballooning costs and in the worst cases, injuries or even death.” Rosli stressed that while deadlines may be tight, cutting corners on safety could lead to far-reaching consequences. He added that the publicultimately pays the price through service disruptions, accidents and costly system overhauls. “The cost of cutting corners is far greater than doing things right from the start,” he said. Saw, from Utar’s Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science, highlighted the need for robust safety standards to be integrated from the ground up. Meanwhile, former Prasarana Malaysia Bhd managing director and MRT Corp CEO Datuk Seri Shahril Mokhtar said safety considerations must extend beyond public transport. He added that water supply infrastructure, government buildings and other public facilities should also meet strict safety benchmarks. Their remarks follow renewed scrutiny over infrastructure safety in the wake of several recent tragedies involving structural failures. The incidents have reignited long-standing concerns over oversight, accountability and whether safety is being sidelined in the push to deliver mega projects quickly. Ű BY THESUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

paper be environmentally damaging if it enters river systems or soil. The Department of Irrigation and Drainage has been tasked with monitoring whether the operator instals proper drainage infrastructure that meets the required standards. Both the department and the Land and Mines Department are expected to carry out evaluations and submit comprehensive reports. “(Both) departments will examine the matter thoroughly,” said Arafat. “They will also propose measures to prevent similar incidents from happening again.” The mining operator has been given a one-week deadline to begin implementation of the measures. Residents have long struggled with sludge-covered roads and blocked access routes each time heavy rain occurs. The aftermath often requires extensive cleanup before residents can safely move in and out of their homes. production, which can

Roads become submerged, sludge flows into homes and compounds, and residents are left stranded until the floodwaters and debris subside. Responding to growing complaints, Ulu Kinta assemblyman Muhamad Arafat Variasai Mahamad visited the mining site, accompanied by officers from the Land and Mines Department, resident representatives and staff from the Tambun and Ulu Kinta service centres to assess the situation firsthand. During the visit, he said the mining operator committed to a list of improvements aimed at addressing the cause of the flooding. “The operator has given a commitment to carry out improvements and also implement new plans,” he said. “This includes constructing a proper retaining pond to hold back water that flows down from the hillside.” Muhamad Arafat stressed the importance of protecting natural waterways from contamination by kaolin, a type of white clay commonly used in ceramics and

IPOH: After enduring repeated flash floods and sludge-filled streets, hundreds of residents from four neighbourhoods in Changkat Kinding, Ulu Kinta, may finally see some relief as the operator of a nearby kaolin (white clay) mining site has pledged immediate corrective measures. The affected areas – Taman Kinding Raya, Taman Kinding Permai, Taman Akasia and Taman Hijaun – have long grappled with worsening conditions each time it rains. o Retaining pond and drainage upgrades promised after residents endure sludge-filled streets and blocked access Ű BY P. CHANDRA SAGARAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Jepak Bridge renamed Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Bridge BINTULU: The Jepak Bridge, opened to the public in March, has been officially named the Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Bridge, in honour of Sarawak’s fourth chief minister. Energy initiative. The initiative helped attract investments to the Samalaju Industrial Park. to see the bridge completed. “She allowed me to serve the people wholeheartedly. Tonight, I am here with my daughter (Dayang Norjihan) to witness the opening of this bridge in memory of her sacrifice,” he added. The bridge was among the development promises made by Abang Johari in 2017 during a dialogue session with the people of Bintulu, shortly after he assumed state leadership. – PIC COURTESY OF BORNEO PAGES

Abdul Taib passed away on Feb 21 last year. The bridge was among the development promises made by Abang Johari in 2017 during a dialogue session with the people of Bintulu, shortly after he assumed state leadership. “I promised to build an iconic bridge like the one in San Francisco. Today, I have fulfilled that promise. This bridge is not only a physical connector, but also a symbol of unity and progress for the people,” he said. He also shared a personal reflection involving his late wife Puan Sri Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, who passed away last month. Although born in Bintulu, she did not live

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg announced the name during the official opening ceremony of the RM466.7 million bridge on Wednesday night. He said the decision was made to recognise Abdul Taib’s contributions to the development of Bintulu. “If he were still alive, he would surely be impressed by the bridge we are inaugurating,” Abang Johari said. He added that Abdul Taib played a major role in establishing the Regional Corridor Development Authority, the agency behind the Sarawak Corridor of Renewable

Spanning 1.2km across the Kemena River, the Tun Abdul Taib Mahmud Bridge connects the Bintulu town centre with the fast-developing area of Jepak, reducing travel time between the two areas from over 30 minutes to just a few minutes. As a symbol of Bintulu’s second wave of development, the bridge plays a key role in unlocking new zones for state administrative offices, commercial centres, housing projects and utility infrastructure, including a domestic gas pipeline. – Bernama

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025 | 5

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

6

Cops identify Malaysians held in Cambodia over 60kg ganja

More than 200 detained in Johor immigration raid Johor Immigration Department detained 225 undocumented immigrants during Op Mahir, conducted last Tuesday at the largest petrochemical processing and construction site in Tanjung Langsat, Pasir Gudang. State Immigration director Datuk Mohd Rusdi Mohd Darus said Op Mahir was launched following intelligence gathered from public tip-offs regarding a large number of immigrants working at the site without valid permits or passes. He said 664 individuals, both locals and foreigners, were inspected and arrests were made involving nationals from China, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Pakistan and Nepal. “The arrests involved 129 Chinese men and four Chinese women, 84 Bangladeshi men, two Indonesian men, two Pakistani men and two Nepalese men, aged between 21 and 63. “Also detained were a local man and woman, a manager and human resources officer at the project site,” he added. He said all those detained have been placed at the Pekan Nenas immigration depot for further investigations under sections 6(1)(c) and 15(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63, as well as regulations 11(7)(a) and 39(b) of the Immigration Regulations 1963. “The detained locals are also being investigated under Section 56(1)(d) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 for harbouring or employing undocumented immigrants.” – Bernama JOHOR BAHRU: The Child dies in suspected dog mauling incident KUALA LUMPUR: A 19-month-old boy died, believed to have been mauled by dogs, at Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Buloh. District police chief Supt Mohd Hafiz Muhammad Nor said police received a report on the incident at 8.40am on Tuesday from a medical officer at the Sungai Buloh Hospital. “The child was brought to the emergency zone unconscious and was given cardiopulmonary resuscitation, but there was no response. He was pronounced dead at 9.14am. “Initial checks revealed scratches and wounds on the victim’s head and body,” he said in a statement. He also said initial investigations found that the child was taken to the hospital by his parents, an Orang Asli couple aged 31 and 29. “The couple had returned from work at about 8.15am and found the door to their house open. They discovered their son unconscious about 20m from the house, with several dogs near the body.” The boy was under the care of his uncle at the time and is believed to have been sleeping in the living room before he went missing. The case is being investigated under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001. – Bernama

He that preliminary information regarding the arrests was obtained through the Foreign Ministry, but no official notification has been received from Cambodian authorities to date. “Police will work with the ministry through the Malaysian embassy in Cambodia to obtain further details.” He also said initial investigations have yet to determine whether the case was linked to international told Bernama

drug

trafficking

syndicates

o Investigation yet to determine if case related to international drug syndicates: NCID director

operating from Malaysia. On a separate matter, Hussein advised Malaysians to be cautious and not to fall for online job offers promising high salaries, especially those involving the delivery of packages overseas. He also reminded the public to be vigilant against the modus operandi of international syndicates that target Malaysians as drug mules. Grandfather denies autistic PETALING JAYA: The grandfather of the late Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matin told the Sessions Court that his son and daughter-in-law would never have neglected or harmed the boy, describing them as devoted parents. Zahari Mohd Reba, 57, who was testifying at the defence proceedings of Ismanira Abdul Manaf, said both she and her husband, Zaim Ikhwan, loved their son. “Zayn was my grandson. If either of his parents were not working, I would make sure they came over. “He was very close to his parents. I believe my son and daughter-in-law were not involved in his death,” he said during examination-in-chief by defence lawyer Haresh Mahadevan on Wednesday. He added that he was heartbroken by the loss of his eldest grandchild and loved Zayn. When questioned by DPP Raja Zaizul Faridah Raja Zaharudin, Zahari confirmed that Zayn required constant care and shared a close bond with both parents. He also agreed with the prosecution’s suggestion that Ismanira and Zaim treated Zayn and his younger sibling equally. On Monday, Judge Dr Syahliza Warnoh ruled that the prosecution had established a prima facie case and ordered Ismanira to enter her defence. Her husband was discharged and acquitted of the same charge. The couple had been accused of neglecting Zayn in a manner likely to cause physical harm between noon on Dec 5 and 9.55pm on Dec 6, 2023, in the vicinity of Block R of Idaman Apartment in Damansara Damai and a river. They were charged under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code. If convicted, the offence carries a maximum sentence of 20 years’ jail, a fine of up to RM50,000, or both. – Bernama grandchild neglected

KUALA LUMPUR: Police have identified six Malaysians who were detained by Cambodian authorities on suspicion of attempting to smuggle 62kg of ganja to the United Kingdom via Phnom Penh

International Airport on July 16. Bukit Aman Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department director Datuk Hussein Omar Khan said the suspects were all men aged between 27 and 70.

Police seize RM3m ganja, four arrested Mohd Alwi (centre) showing part of the 112kg ganja haul during a press conference at the Penang police contingent headquarters yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

GEORGE TOWN: Police have arrested four men, including a Vietnamese national, and seized 112kg of ganja worth RM3.72 million in two raids carried out at Bukit Mertajam. Penang acting police chief Datuk Mohd Alwi Zainal Abidin said a team from the Narcotics Criminal Investigation Department (NCID) launched an operation from 10am on Tuesday until 3am on Wednesday. “In the first raid, police arrested two men in a hotel room and another man in the hotel lobby, who acted as a ‘transporter’. An inspection uncovered a canvas bag containing 9.2kg of ganja and 4.2kg of ganja buds,” he said at a press conference yesterday. He added that following interrogation and intelligence

trips before being arrested. “Intelligence indicates that they have been active since last March. We are now tracking down the mastermind and other members of the network, who are believed to be in the state.” Police also seized RM1,300 in cash and three vehicles – an MPV, a car and a motorcycle – with a total estimated value of RM199,300. The drugs seized are believed to be enough for approximately 230,000 doses. “The three local men arrested tested positive for drugs and have between seven and 13 records related to criminal and drug offences.” All four suspects have been remanded for seven days until July 29 to assist in investigations. – Bernama

gathered, a Vietnamese man in Seberang Jaya and took him to a homestay nearby, which was used by as a storage facility for smuggling and distribution activities. He said during the inspection of the homestay, police seized 105 packages of ganja buds weighing 97.7kg. Investigations revealed that the suspects had been renting the condominium-type unit since last week for RM2,800 a month. Mohd Alwi also said the group sourced its supply from international drug trafficking networks in neighbouring countries, smuggling them into Malaysia via land routes for distribution. He added that the man acting as a ‘transporter’ was paid up to RM4,000 for each delivery and is believed to have completed two police arrested

Three motorcyclists killed in crash, 11 others injured SEREMBAN: Three motorcyclists died and 11 others were injured in a crash at Km262 of the North-South Expressway (northbound) yesterday morning. eatery when the incident occurred at about 3am. Seremban police chief ACP Mohamad Hatta Che Din confirmed the incident and said the case is under investigation. “Preliminary information indicates that three were killed at the scene, one is in critical condition and receiving treatment, while 10 others were injured. “Further investigations are ongoing and a report will be issued later.” – Bernama It is understood that the men were travelling in a convoy from an

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

7

Thai fighter jet strikes Cambodia in renewed clash

6.3-MAGNITUDE EARTHQUAKE HITS INDONESIA JAKARTA: A 6.3-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia’s Gorontalo province yesterday, according to the country’s Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency, reported Xinhua. The quake occurred at 3.50am local time (2050 GMT on Wednesday), with its epicentre located 8km on land southeast of Pohuwato Regency at a depth of 132km. “No tsunami warning has been issued as the tremor is not expected to generate large waves,“ said Gorontalo city disaster management agency secretary Hendry Ticoalu. He added that there have been no initial reports of damage or casualties. – Bernama-Xinhua SIX STUDENTS DROWN AFTER FALLING INTO MINE IN CHINA BEIJING: Six university students drowned while on a field visit to a mine owned by Shanghai-listed Zhongjin Gold Corp in northern China’s Inner Mongolia region on Wednesday. The tragedy occurred when the students from Northeastern University in Shenyang fell into a flotation cell at the copper molybdenum mine after the collapse of protective grates, said Zhongjin Gold, a subsidiary of state-owned China National Gold Group Co, in a stock exchange filing. – Reuters women claimed that they were made to take off their underwear and subjected to non-consensual gynaecological inspections by a nurse in ambulances on the tarmac. Federal Court Justice John Halley dismissed the claims against Qatar Airways last year, finding that they had no reasonable prospect of success and that Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority amounted to a foreign state immune from Australian law. Yesterday, the full Federal Court overturned the ruling, saying the issue was too complex to be dismissed summarily. “Whether or not the claims come within the scope of (the Montreal Convention) is a matter of some complexity,“ the judgement said. “It is not an issue apt to be decided at the stage of summary dismissal.” The judgment allows the women to continue their lawsuit against Qatar Airways and Matar. Both companies were ordered to pay the costs of the appeal. “Our clients endured a traumatic experience on that night in Doha, and they deserve to have their day in court and compensation for their suffering,“ said Damian Sturzaker from Marque Lawyers, representing the women. – Reuters

BR I E F S

BANGKOK: Thailand’s military deployed an F-16 fighter jet against Cambodia’s Armed Forces yesterday, the Thai army said, as weeks of tension over a border dispute escalated into clashes that have killed at least two civilians. Of the six fighter jets that Thailand has readied to deploy along the disputed border, one fired into Cambodia and destroyed a military target, the Thai army said. Both countries accused each other of starting the clash yesterday. “We have used air power against military targets as planned,” Thai army deputy spokesperson Richa Suksuwanon told reporters. Cambodia’s Defence Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation on o Bangkok claims Phnom Penh forces opened fire along border

SYDNEY: Five Australian women who say they were pulled from a Qatar Airways flight by armed guards and strip searched have won the right to sue the airline after a court yesterday overturned an earlier decision to throw out the case. Women on 10 Qatar Airways flights, including 13 Australians, were subjected to invasive examinations to see if they had recently given birth after a newborn baby was found abandoned at Doha’s Hamad Airport in October 2020. The incident made headlines around the world, sparked outrage in Australia and strained diplomatic ties with Qatar. A group of five women on a Sydney-bound flight launched legal proceedings in 2022 against Qatar Airways, airport operator Matar and Qatar’s Civil Aviation Authority. They brought claims under the Montreal Convention, which covers airline liability, negligence, assault and false imprisonment. They sought damages for the impact on their mental health, including post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, stemming from the “unlawful physical contact”. After being escorted off their flight by armed Qatari authorities, some lowest level yesterday. According to Agency Kampuchea Press, ties were reduced to the Second Charge d’Affaires level. Cambodian diplomatic staff based in Bangkok will also be recalled. The Thai diplomatic mission in Phnom Penh has been instructed to do the same, according to the report. Tensions between the two countries have been escalating since May 28, when a deadly clash broke out between Thai and Cambodian troops along the disputed Preah Vihear border area. One Cambodian soldier was killed in that exchange of fire. The two Southeast Asian neighbours have been disputing an 817km undemarcated border for decades. The issue continues to sour diplomatic ties. Thailand’s embassy in Phnom Penh yesterday urged its nationals to leave Cambodia. It said Thais should leave Cambodia “as soon as possible” unless they have urgent reasons to remain. – Bernama

86 villages near the border to safer locations. Meanwhile, Cambodia’s influential former premier Hun Sen said two Cambodian provinces have come under shelling from the Thai military. Agency Kampuchea Press also reported that armed clashes took place in Oddar Meanchey province along the Cambodia-Thailand border. “Cambodian forces acted strictly within the bounds of self-defence, responding to an unprovoked incursion by Thai troops that violated our territorial integrity,” said Cambodian National Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt-Gen Maly Socheata. On Wednesday, the Thai government downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia in immediate retaliation after a Thai soldier sustained injuries from what the government claimed was a newly planted landmine. The Cambodian government reciprocated by lowering its diplomatic ties with Thailand to the

the air strike. A fresh clash between Thai and Cambodian troops erupted yesterday morning along the disputed border, amid heightened tensions following a downgrade of diplomatic relations between the two countries. In a statement, the Thai army said the skirmish occurred near the Ta Muen Thom Temple, located in Thailand’s northeastern Surin province. It said the confrontation allegedly occurred after Cambodian forces opened fire along the Thai-Cambodian border. “The Cambodian side was observed deploying an unmanned aerial vehicle for reconnaissance before dispatching troops equipped with heavy weapons to engage in the clash.” Surin’s Kabcheing district chief Sutthirot Charoenthanasak said: “Artillery shell fell on people’s homes.” “Two people have died,” he said, adding that district authorities have evacuated 40,000 civilians from

Group wins right to sue airline over strip searches

Philippines cancels classes, flights as typhoon nears MANILA: The Philippines shut schools and cancelled flights yesterday as torrential rains driven by a typhoon and a separate tropical storm pounded the country’s northern island of Luzon. Typhoon Co-May , upgraded from a tropical storm overnight, follows days of monsoon rains that have killed at least 12 people and left eight missing across the archipelago since July 18, according to the national disaster agency.

With maximum sustained winds of 120kph, the typhoon is expected to make landfall on the west coast in either La Union or Ilocos Sur province by today, the country’s weather service said. About 70 domestic and international flights have been cancelled due to the storms, the civil aviation authority said. The government announced the suspension of classes across Luzon yesterday. Tens of thousands were displaced across Manila earlier this week by floodwaters that swamped some neighbourhoods in waist-deep water and left residents of nearby provinces stranded and in need of rescue by boat. As of yesterday, at least several thousand people in Manila remained unable to return to their homes.

Typhoon Co-May follows days of monsoon rains that have killed at least 12 people and left eight missing across the archipelago since July 18, according to the national disaster agency. – AFPPIC

210km off the country’s west coast as of 11am (0300 GMT) yesterday. Tropical storm Francisco was situated about 735km from the country’s east coast and on a trajectory towards northern Taiwan. The two storms are not believed to be on a collision path. – AFP

“We cannot send them home yet because it is still raining and some typhoons are still expected to affect the country,“ said Manila rescue coordinator Ria Mei Pangilinan. “There might be more (evacuees) if the rain does not stop.” Typhoon Co-May was about

18 held over forged degrees in Hong Kong HONG KONG: Eighteen people were arrested for using forged degrees to apply for Hong Kong’s Top Talent Pass Scheme, reported Xinhua. The Hong Kong Special they have uncovered a criminal syndicate assisting mainland residents in submitting false qualifications for the scheme.

the city and promoted a “one-stop service package”, which included forging overseas university degrees. The department added that the syndicate has been operating for about one and a half years and has processed at least 22 applications. – Bernama-Xinhua

Department assistant principal immigration officer Hui Chi-kin said the criminal syndicate monitored and tracked posts on social media platforms that shared information about Hong Kong. They then sent private messages to individuals interested in relocating to

individuals, aged between 27 and 47, were mainland residents. According to preliminary estimates by the department, each application, including follow-up services, was charged up to HK$2.5 million (RM1.34 million) in the case, which involved HK$55 million.

Among those arrested were five Hong Kong residents, aged between 42 and 56, believed to be members of the syndicate, while the remaining

Administrative Region government Immigration Department said on Wednesday it was the first time that

FRIDAY | JULY 25, 2025

8

Idaho killer sentenced to life without parole

Columbia to pay US$200m fine to US govt NEW YORK: Columbia University said on Wednesday it would pay a US$200 million (RM843 million) fine to the US government after President Donald Trump threatened to pull federal funding over what he said was its unwillingness to protect Jewish students. In a sweeping deal that would restore the New York institution’s federal monies, Columbia has pledged to obey rules that bar it from taking race into consideration in admissions or hiring. “Columbia University has reached an agreement with the US government to resolve multiple federal agency investigations into alleged violations of federal anti-discrimination laws,“ a statement said, adding that the US$200 million would be paid over three years. The university will also pay US$21 million to settle investigations brought by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, it said. “A majority of the federal grants that were terminated or paused in March will be reinstated and Columbia’s access to billions of dollars in current and future grants will be restored.“ The promise of the federal funding spigot reopening offers relief to the university, which was under growing financial pressure, despite an endowment that offered some cushion. The centuries-old Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts is also in a fight with the administration over Trump’s threats to rip away federal funding, and Wednesday’s carefully worded agreement, in which Columbia admitted no wrongdoing, could offer a framework for future deals. “This agreement marks an important step forward after a period of sustained federal scrutiny and institutional uncertainty,“ said Columbia’s acting president Claire Shipman. “The settlement was carefully crafted to protect the values that define us and allow our essential research partnership with the federal government to get back on track. “It safeguards our independence, a critical condition for academic excellence and scholarly exploration, work that is vital to the public interest.” The New York Post reported that, under the settlement, Columbia would maintain a security force to prevent demonstrations in academic spaces, such as those that rocked the campus last year when pro-Palestinian protestors clashed with law enforcement, occupying university buildings. – AFP

BOISE: A former criminal-justice doctoral student convicted in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students was sentenced to life in prison on Wednesday but declined to give a statement in court that might have shed light on a motive for the killings. Bryan Kohberger, 30, received four consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole or appeal under a deal with prosecutors sparing him the death penalty in return for pleading guilty earlier this month to four counts of first-degree murder. Judge Steven Hippler gave Kohberger an opportunity to address the court before the sentence was pronounced. “I respectfully decline,“ the defendant said. He sat expressionless beside his lawyers as relatives and friends of the victims, namely Ethan Chapin, 20, his girlfriend Xana Kernodle, 20, and her roommates Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, took turns venting their anger and anguish directly at him through the presentation of victim impact statements. “I never imagined having to speak to someone so devoid of humanity,” said Kristi Goncalves, mother of Kaylee Goncalves. o Deal spares man from death penalty in return for pleading guilty to murder of four students

Steve Goncalves, father of victim Kaylee Goncalves, speaking at the sentencing hearing of Kohberger at the Ada County Courthouse in Boise, Idaho. – REUTERSPIC

understand the why. But by continuing to focus on why, we continue to give Kohberger relevance. We give him agency,” said Hippler. In the plea hearing earlier this month, Latah County prosecuting attorney Bill Thompson sought to rule out one possible avenue of speculation, declaring that there was no evidence of sexual assault among the victims or a “sexual component” to the killings. At the time of the murders, Kohberger was pursuing a doctorate degree in criminal justice at Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, a short distance from the University of Idaho campus in the neighboring northwestern Idaho town of Moscow. – Reuters

The victim’s older sister Alivea addressed Kohberger and said: “I will call you what you are, sociopath, psychopath, murderer.” In pleading guilty on July 2, Kohberger admitted to the underlying allegations that he had crept into an off-campus house on Nov 13, 2022 and stabbed the four students to death with a hunting knife, then slipped away. Two other women living at the house survived unharmed. But Kohberger made no mention of motive. Authorities likewise have yet to offer an explanation for what might have driven Kohberger’s actions, and how or why he singled out his victims. “I share the desire expressed by others to

Wrong remains sent to families of Air India crash victims LONDON: Relatives of a British victim killed in last month’s Air India crash received a casket that contained mixed remains, a lawyer representing several families and UK media said on Wednesday. A total of 241 people on board the London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner died when the plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Ahmedabad in western India on June 12. Some 169 Indian passengers and 52 British nationals were killed, making it one of the deadliest plane crashes in terms of the number of British fatalities. Healy-Pratt told news agency Press The family of a separate victim received the remains of another person, according to James Healy-Pratt, who is representing 20 British families.

Association that the return of victims’ remains had been marred by serious errors, which were identified following a probe by a British coroner. “In the first two caskets that were repatriated, in one of the caskets, there was co-mingling of DNA that did not relate to the deceased in that casket or the casket that accompanied it.“ – AFP