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No. 8864 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

MORALE BOOSTER ... Students from a contesting school showing support for their team during the finals of the 50th edition of the Prime Minister’s Cup Debate Competition at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

INSIDE page 3 PM term limit study Matter being researched extensively considering involvement of amendments to Federal Constitution, discretionary powers of King and agreement of various stakeholders, says minister. Report on h page 2 page 6 page 4

Public warned of scammers falsely stating registration needed for RM100 cash aid.

Intensive efforts by govt to protect Malayan tiger showing encouraging results.

Overweight 14-year-old resolves to lose weight to live more active life.

NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025

Move to limit PM’s tenure to two terms under study

M’sia monitoring tensions at Thai Cambodia border PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is closely monitoring ongoing tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said gunfire has continued despite both countries’ assurance to de-escalate tensions. “Both the prime ministers of Thailand and Cambodia have made statements and contacted me personally to express appreciation,” he said during a media conference at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre yesterday. “I have instructed Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to reach out, and I will personally intervene if necessary. At the very least, stop the shooting first and continue talks.” He also expressed gratitude to the Federation of Thai Industries, which voiced concern over the impact of the border conflict on regional trade. The conflict centres on overlapping claims near the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temple areas. While the International Court of Justice ruled in Cambodia’s favour in 2013, recent violence reportedly began after a Cambodian soldier was killed by a landmine in May, triggering artillery exchanges and evacuations. In a post on his Facebook page, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said he agreed to the ceasefire because Cambodia did not initiate the fighting. “The key to resolving the current armed conflict between Thailand and Cambodia is the genuine willingness of the Thai side to accept a ceasefire, which is the first step towards finding further solutions between the two countries.” Manet said there is unclear reporting by various international media regarding the proposed ceasefire talks initiated by Anwar, the current Asean chair. He said he only agreed to the ceasefire after hearing from Anwar that Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai had agreed to peace talks. “However, it is regrettable that just over an hour later, the Thai side said they had reversed their position from agreeing to the ceasefire,” said Manet. On another matter, Anwar responded to remarks by PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan questioning the handling of a special task force report on Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad. “He should follow the process, he hasn’t even read the report,” said Anwar. The task force, chaired by a former chief justice, had recommended action over alleged betrayal of the nation. “Despite the seriousness of the offence, given Tun’s condition, we proposed not to pursue it further,” Anwar added. –By Faiz Ruzman

Cabinet has acknowledged proposal involves amendments to Federal Constitution and discretionary powers of King, says minister Ű BY MAHADHIR MONIHULDIN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

in office during his first tenure (1981-2003). Setting a two-term limit for the prime minister has long been a pledge of the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition. In December 2019, the PH government led by Mahathir tabled a Bill to amend the Constitution and introduce the reform. However, the Bill was withdrawn in August 2020 after a unanimous Cabinet decision made under the administration of Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. The proposal resurfaced in September 2021, when then prime minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob agreed to introduce a 10-year limit in exchange for opposition support for his government. A draft Bill was reportedly ready for tabling in February 2022, but it never materialised, as Parliament was dissolved in October that year ahead of the 15th general election. “We want to ensure that students, especially those in Form 3 and Form 4 who show remarkable potential this year, are given equal opportunities to be trained and supported through this academy. “This will be one of the key agendas leading into next year’s 51st edition of the Piala Perdana Menteri Debate.” She said the ministry is also looking at the potential for future expansion beyond residential schools through related platforms such as Debat Madani. Fadhlina also announced that the Bahasa Melayu debate trophy, used since the inception of the competition in 1974, would be retired and handed to the National Archives and a new trophy contributed by Anwar would be introduced in 2026. In the 50th edition of the debate, Sekolah Menengah Agama Persekutuan Kajang won in the Bahasa Melayu category, defeating SBP Integrasi Sabak Bernam, while Sekolah Sultan Alam Shah claimed victory over Sekolah Menengah Sains Muar in the English category .

holistic consideration as it includes obtaining the views and agreement of various stakeholders such as state governments and political parties at federal and state levels. She said the matter is still under consideration by the Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister’s Department. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had expressed support for a call by DAP to amend the Constitution to limit the tenure of the premier to 10 years, or two terms. However, he said it was important to secure the support of all parties. To date, only two of Malaysia’s 10 prime ministers have served for more than 10 years – the first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman (1955 1969) and Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who holds the record as the longest-serving prime minister, with 22 years

limiting the prime minister’s tenure to two parliamentary terms, or a maximum of 10 years. “The Cabinet has acknowledged that this proposal involves amendments to the Federal Constitution and touches upon the discretionary powers of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” she said in a parliamentary written reply to Hassan Abdul Karim (PH Pasir Gudang). Hassan had asked the government when it would table the amendment to the Constitution to limit the term of the prime minister. Azalina said the amendment requires a thorough and

PUTRAJAYA: The government yesterday launched the Akademi Bahas Madani, a national-level training initiative aimed at strengthening the debate culture in fully residential schools and cultivating students’ critical thinking, intellectual discipline and ethical argumentation. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the 50th edition of the Piala Perdana Menteri Debate held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. The initiative will be implemented immediately at 72 “Sekolah Berasrama Penuh” nationwide. “I was very impressed not only with the fluency and confidence of the students but also their knowledge, mastery of language and respectful conduct. “Shouldn’t our MPs take lessons from all of you? The students are firm, articulate, full of substance and yet, they debate politely. “We must train our students PETALING JAYA: Putrajaya is studying a two-term limit for the post of prime minister, said Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said. She said a preliminary report on the proposal had been presented to the Cabinet on March 19. “The government is always open and committed to examining any proposal involving improvements to the country’s administrative and governance systems, including Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Academy to strengthen debate culture launched

Anwar with students of Sekolah Menengah Agama Persekutuan Kajang, who won in the Bahasa Melayu category in the debate held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Sidek said the newly established academy would serve as a platform for structured, long term training, with a focus on intellectual empowerment and critical reasoning.

not only to reach for the skies in terms of knowledge and technology but also to remain grounded in character, culture and identity.” Education Minister Fadhlina

No Malaysians involved in Russian plane crash PUTRAJAYA: No Malaysians

this time of profound sorrow.” The aircraft reportedly went down during its final approach to Tynda Airport, killing all 42 passengers and six crew members. – Bernama

condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected by this tragedy. “Malaysia stands in solidarity with the government and people of the Russian Federation during

This was confirmed by the Malaysian Embassy in Moscow, the Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “The ministry extends its deepest sympathies and heartfelt

were on board Angara Airlines Flight 2G2311, which crashed during its final approach to Tynda Airport in Russia’s far-eastern Amur Oblast on July 24.

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025

Health survey of senior citizens SEREMBAN: The Institute for Public Health is conducting a National Health and Morbidity Survey from July 22 to Sept 21, focusing on the health of Malaysians aged 60 and above, said Health Deputy Minister

Ministry to help police probe into death of student

chronic diseases, sarcopenia and frailty while the social domain covers informal caregiver burden, social support, quality of life and ageing well.” He said 43 teams have been deployed to collect data.

includes cognitive, dementia and geriatric depression screenings. “The physical domain includes daily activities, instrumental activities of daily living, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, other

Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni. He said in a statement that the survey would cover about 16,700 randomly selected households nationwide, focusing on three key domains, Bernama reported. “The mental health domain

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Public warned of scams related to RM100 aid

New envoy to US to boost ties with America KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s new Ambassador to the United States (US) Tan Sri Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening Malaysia-US bilateral relationship during a presentation of credentials ceremony with President Donald Trump at the White House. In a post on its Facebook page yesterday, the Malaysian Embassy in Washington said Muhammad Shahrul presented his Letter of Credence to Trump during the ceremony on July 24, making him the 18th Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Malaysia to the US. “Muhammad Shahrul had the opportunity to briefly exchange pleasantries with Trump, conveying his commitment to further strengthen Malaysia-US bilateral relationship. “He also thanked the president for Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s participation in the recent 48th Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings, held in Kuala Lumpur from July 8 to 11.” Muhammad Shahrul is a Foreign Ministry former secretary-general and a veteran diplomat with more than 35 years of service. Born in Pahang, Muhammad Shahrul holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Ecology from Universiti Malaya. He also completed the Advanced Management Programme at Harvard Business School in 2009. He began his career at the Foreign Ministry in 1988 as an Administrative and Diplomatic Officer. – Bernama The case revolves around the death of Zara Qairina, a 13-year-old Form One student at SMA Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar, who was found critically injured outside her hostel building on July 17. PUTRAJAYA: The Education Ministry is giving its full cooperation to police investigations into the death of a student at a boarding school in Sabah. “This is a top priority for us. We’ve never taken lightly any case involving the well-being of our teachers and students,” said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. She said the ministry will allow the police to carry out an open and transparent investigation into the case and act based on its findings. “If there are issues that emerge, or public concerns that are validated, we will act in accordance with the law and the responsibilities we hold,” she said, adding that crisis intervention measures are being implemented on the ground. Fadhlina said her ministry, in collaboration with the Health Ministry, is also offering psychological support for both the family and the school community.

‘Assistance does not require any application or registration as it will be credited directly to recipients’ MyKad starting Aug 31’

GEORGE TOWN: The Finance Ministry has urged the public to be cautious of scams linked to the one-off RM100 cash assistance under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah scheme. Finance Deputy Minister Lim Hui Ying said the assistance does not require any application or registration as it will be credited directly to the MyKad of those aged 18

professionals is committing an offence. “If convicted, the offender may be fined up to RM50,000 or jailed up to two years, or both. For continuing offences, an additional fine of up to RM1,000 per day may be imposed.. “For corporate bodies, partnerships or any organisational entities, the fine may reach up to RM100,000, with an additional fine of RM5,000 per day for continuing offences.” – Bernama receive the aid. These claims are false and highly dangerous. Do not click on any such links. They are scams. “Everyone aged 18 and above will receive it. Only if they do not receive it after Aug 31 will we take further action and inform them accordingly.” Lim, who is also Tanjong MP, was speaking after officiating at the Penang Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia reference book launch and the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia Chinese Language and Moral Education Answering Techniques Workshop yesterday. Lim said the government is also open to considering the inclusion of wet goods such as chicken, meat and fish under the scheme, Bernama reported. She said this would require a thorough study, including gathering feedback from all stakeholders. “We will monitor and assess the situation, and when the time is right and if deemed necessary, we will consider expanding the list.” She said on May 1, the government had expanded the initiative to include household cleaning products, such as laundry detergent, floor cleaner and dishwashing liquid, in addition to the existing categories covering basic food items, medicines, school supplies and personal hygiene products. The inclusion of these new items increased the number of eligible product categories from 13 to 14, covering a total of 90,000 types of goods.

and above starting Aug 31. “We have received numerous inquiries about how to register for the RM100

assistance. There have also been complaints about fake links and messages claiming that registration is required to

The Finance Ministry has received many complaints about fake links and messages claiming that registration is required to receive the RM100 aid under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah scheme. – MASRY CHE ANI /THESUN

Filling of healthcare positions to be fast-tracked KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry will fill 4,352 positions in the healthcare sector through a fast-track process to meet the urgent need for medical personnel, said its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. general to fast-track the recruitment process rather than following the conventional approach,” he said after officiating at the Annual Scientific Meeting and 55th Annual General Meeting of the Malaysian Society of Radiographers yesterday. Annual Practising Certificate (APC) before Dec 31, 2026. He said this is vital to establish a recognised, regulated and quality-driven allied health ecosystem. The ministry’s Allied Health Sciences Division director

He said the matter was discussed at the Cabinet meeting on Friday, during which he stressed the importance of accelerating the process. “I have emphasised it and instructed the ministry secretary general and Health director

L. Mageswary said individuals who fail to register or practise without a valid APC could face legal action. “Anyone employing unregistered individuals to carry out duties as allied health

On the registration of healthcare practitioners under the Allied Health Professions Act 2016, Dzulkefly urged all practitioners to complete their official registration and obtain the

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Malaysia steps up fight to save Malayan tiger

“ Gajah denak play a crucial role and typically work in pairs. “They not only lead but also provide psychological reassurance, preventing panic and resistance,” explained Johor Wildlife and National Parks director Aminuddin Jamin. Between 2020 and 2024, the department received 699 complaints involving elephants in Johor, with 228 cases reported in Kluang, making it the state’s main hotspot for human-elephant conflict. Doulos Hope draws 25,000 visitors to Labuan LABUAN: The arrival of Doulos Hope, the floating bookstore, has not only captured the imagination of the Labuan community but also brought significant cultural and economic benefits, according to Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa. During a visit to the vessel, Zaliha said its presence has created a new avenue for community engagement, allowing locals to experience the floating book fair and witness the unique life and mission of a ship crewed by more than 100 volunteers from over 30 countries. “This is not just a bookstore on water, it is a bridge between cultures. The people of Labuan are enjoying a rare opportunity to meet and interact with individuals from around the world, enriching their perspectives,” she said. She noted that the ship has drawn a steady stream of visitors, from children and students to senior citizens and tour groups. “I saw for myself the non-stop flow of people boarding the ship, all excited to explore what Doulos Hope offers. It is heartening to witness the sense of curiosity and unity this vessel has brought to our shores,” she added. Zaliha also highlighted the economic spillover generated by the visit, with the ship’s international crew and volunteers frequently patronising local eateries, cafes and convenience stores, bringing supplies back to the vessel and contributing to small business revenue. Doulos Hope director Nidhin Sebastian shared that the response from the public has been overwhelming, with nearly 25,000 visitors recorded since its arrival in Labuan. “It has been a joy to welcome so many aboard. We are grateful for the warmth and hospitality shown by the people of Labuan,” he said. The ship will remain docked in Labuan until tomorrow,. Entrance to the ship and its book fair is free and open to the public, offering more than 2,000 titles at affordable prices. – Bernama

Collaborations with veterans, communities and FAM signal growing momentum in conservation Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the Malayan Tiger Crisis Action Plan 2021 to 2030, strengthening enforcement through BP3 and expanding partnerships under the Save the Malayan Tiger Campaign with private sector and public involvement. The event also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the department and the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM), symbolically aligning with the national football team Harimau Malaya and its tagline, Demi Lencana di Dada, Demi Harimau Kita . FAM has contributed about RM200,000 to the Save the Malayan Tiger Campaign Fund to date. Since the campaign’s launch in 2021, ticket sales from Harimau Malaya football matches have raised RM2.1 million for the cause. It was also revealed that six contributors – comprising FAM, private companies and youth groups – have collectively donated RM401,021 to the campaign between 2023 and 2025, signalling strong ongoing support.

as a reminder of the global importance of tiger conservation. He said the situation in Malaysia remains alarming, with the First National Tiger Survey (2016 to 2020) estimating the Malayan tiger population at fewer than 150. “Without drastic action, Malaysia could lose this iconic species within the next five to 10 years. “The Cabinet, on June 16, 2021, agreed to implement extraordinary strategic measures over 10 years, focusing on halting the population decline, improving conservation governance and strengthening long-term survival initiatives.” Following the accreditation of Royal Belum State Park in Perak with the Conservation Assured Tiger Standards in 2023, Malaysia is now seeking similar recognition for national parks in Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan, as well as Endau Rompin National Park. Huang said the department is also working to obtain Asean Heritage Park status for the Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve.

Tiger Day 2025 celebration yesterday. He added that 15,000ha of new terrestrial protected areas have been gazetted in Kedah, Perak, Selangor, Terengganu and Negeri Sembilan under the Ecological Fiscal Transfer for Biodiversity Conservation, with the allocation increased to RM250 million for this year. To strengthen action against cross-border wildlife crimes, the Wildlife Crime Bureau was established under the Royal Malaysia Police and recorded seizures worth more than RM2 million in 2024. Abdul Kadir also acknowledged state-level initiatives, citing Pahang’s move to gazette the 134,183ha Al Sultan Abdullah Royal Tiger Reserve to support population recovery. “These efforts are carried out consistently to ensure the Malayan tiger, which faces the threat of extinction, can be preserved for future generations.” Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii said World Tiger Day, observed on July 29, serves

SHAH ALAM:

Efforts to

conserve critically endangered Malayan tiger have shown encouraging progress since 2021, with various initiatives implemented to protect the species and its natural habitat. Wildlife and National Parks Department director-general Datuk Abdul Kadir Abu Hashim said the conservation of the Malayan tiger must not be taken lightly as it requires strong commitment, coordinated action and ongoing public awareness. Among the key initiatives is the Biodiversity Protection and Patrolling Programme (BP3), introduced to combat poaching through cross-agency enforcement under the Integrated Khazanah Operation (IKO). To date, IKO has carried out 72 operations, resulting in 856 arrests and seizures worth RM390 million. “Through collaboration with Armed Forces and police veterans, the Orang Asli and local communities, 2,500 community rangers have been appointed to curb forest encroachment, illegal logging, poaching and mining, while also improving community well being. “The federal government has allocated RM80 million for this effort,” he said during the World the

Abdul Kadir said efforts are carried out consistently to ensure the Malayan tiger can be preserved for future generations. – ADIB RAWI

YAHYA/ THESUN

Wildlife Dept captures sun bear roaming in Dungun village DUNGUN: The Department of Wildlife and National Parks has successfully captured a sun bear that had been roaming around Kampung Padang Ping in Terengganu since last week. villagers about the bear’s presence in the area and nearby oil palm plantations, which raised public concern. Lukut, Kahang, Kluang to a suitable habitat on Friday. The animals were part of a group of nine captured during an operation launched on July 14. Describing the effort as the largest elephant relocation in Johor’s history, Ling noted that the five-hour operation was supported by specialised

“Following the report, we set a trap and managed to catch the animal,” he said. Loo reminded the public not to approach wild animals and to contact the department immediately for appropriate action. Meanwhile, in Johor, the department has relocated two elephants caught in Kampung Sri

elephant units from another state. Assisting in the transfer were Abot and Sanum, two gajah denak (trained elephants) from the National Elephant Conservation Centre in Kuala Gandah, Pahang. Under the guidance of their handlers, the pair helped calm and lead the wild elephants during capture and relocation.

Johor Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said four of the elephants were transferred on July 23, while a juvenile was sent to the Kota Tinggi Elephant Sanctuary for training as a guide elephant. The remaining two are scheduled to be relocated on July 28, Bernama reported.

Terengganu Wildlife and National Parks director Loo Kean Seong said the adult male bear, weighing about 110kg, was caught in a trap set on Friday morning. The bear was uninjured and was released back into its natural habitat later that afternoon. “We received complaints from

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025 Efforts to protect youth from addiction questioned

Man fined RM300,000 for illegal possession of wildlife parts KUALA LUMPUR: An art museum owner was fined RM300,000 by the Sessions Court for possessing various protected wildlife parts without a licence or special permit in 2024. Judge Mohd Zaki Mohd Salleh sentenced Yiu Shoou Rang, 66, after he pleaded guilty to eight amended charges on Friday. The court also ordered nine months’ imprisonment in default of payment. Yiu paid the fine. He was charged with four counts of possessing, without a special permit, protected wildlife parts, including an orangutan skull, two crocodile skulls and seven elephant tusks, all of which are protected species under the Second Schedule of the Wildlife Conservation Act 2010 (Act 716). The offences were committed at a business premises in Central Market, Jalan Hang Kasturi, at about 3.30pm on Jan 8, 2024. He was charged under Section 68(1)(b) of Act 716, which carries a fine of between RM50,000 and RM500,000, or imprisonment of up to three years, or both. Yiu also faced four additional charges of possessing other wildlife parts without a valid licence at the same time and location. The charges were framed under Section 60(1)(a) of Act 716, which provides a maximum fine of RM50,000, imprisonment of up to three years, or both. DPP Suhaila Rashid had earlier urged the court to impose a sentence commensurate with the severity of the offence to serve as a deterrent. – Bernama Two motorcyclists killed in collision with lorry JOHOR BAHRU: Two motorcyclists were killed in a collision involving three vehicles at Km60.5 of Jalan Sungai Rengit in Kota Tinggi yesterday. District police chief Supt Yusof Othman said the two men, aged 18 and 19, sustained head injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. He said police received information regarding the crash, which involved two motorcycles and a lorry at 1.24am. “The collision is believed to have occurred when both motorcycles crashed into the rear of the lorry. The case is still under investigation. “The bodies of the victims were taken to the Kota Tinggi Hospital, while the lorry driver has yet to be traced.” – Bernama

strengthen Islamic identity and leadership among those aged 13 to 23, serving as an early intervention option to develop principled, competent and spiritually resilient youth. Nada employs a comprehensive approach in prevention and treatment, including public education, intervention for at-risk groups and focused rehabilitation. “ Zikir and the five daily prayers build discipline and values, and are also a form of dakwah incorporated into rehabilitation,” said Mahadzir. Former addict Muhammad Amin (not his real name), 30, said spiritual and community based approaches helped save him after seven years of addiction to syabu , driven by emotional distress. “No matter how big the problem, do not choose drugs. They are not a solution. Drugs destroy everything,” he said, adding that he has been clean for 16 months following voluntary treatment. The issue of drug addiction, especially among Malay youth, is not new. Awareness campaigns, enforcement measures and prevention efforts have been carried out by many parties for years, yet a definitive solution remains elusive. using the user identification (ID) of an officer manning the car zone counter. “The unit also detected foreign visitor records classified as problematic, requiring error correction by the on-duty supervisor and clearance of these records using the supervisor’s user ID at the motorcycle zone.” Further inspection at the car counter uncovered RM2,800 in cash and two mobile phones in the officer’s possession. Interrogation led to the discovery of 11 Chinese passports and three Indonesian passports hidden in a black bag above the ceiling of another counter. Roszita said two additional mobile phones were also seized from the motorcycle zone supervisor’s counter. Both suspects were handed to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission at about 10am yesterday for further action. The case has also been reported to the MBCA Integrity Unit in Putrajaya. “Our surveillance was carried out for about a week. Whether this misconduct involves a syndicate is still under investigation.” – Bernama

Systemic issue must be addressed collectively, not only through enforcement, says expert

PUTRAJAYA: data showing that a majority of drug addicts in Malaysia are Malay youths, questions are being raised about the effectiveness of the country’s social support system in protecting the public from an addiction crisis. Information from the National Anti-Drugs Agency (Nada) indicates that Malay males aged between 15 and 39 make up about 70% of the total addicts in the country. This has sparked concern, as this demographic should be an asset to the country, not fall victim to a cycle of addiction that damages individuals and family institutions. Nada Prevention Education principle assistant director Mahadzir Elias described the phenomenon as a systemic issue that must be addressed collectively, not just through enforcement. “If our (community) is overrun with drugs, we cannot blame the police. We are members of that (community). If it is our own child who gets involved, we cannot put the blame on (others),” he told Bernama. He added that communities must act as support systems by playing an active role, With

importance of safe spaces within families and communities to prevent youth from going astray. In rehabilitation efforts, the Islamic Development Department has adopted new approaches by engaging target groups via social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and podcasts, in line with a call by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to strengthen dakwah and counselling in addressing drug addiction. On the ground, mosques such as Masjid Putra in Putrajaya serve as centres for spiritual rehabilitation and community support, offering modules in prayer, zikir , halaqah and family involvement. “This is not only spiritual rehabilitation but also repairing family bonds damaged by drug abuse. Dakwah approaches for Malay youth must keep pace with the times,” Mohd Na’im said. The MyInsaniah initiative has also been introduced to

including

guiding

and

monitoring youths. “This group could become a social time bomb that destroys families, undermines the strength of the nation and jeopardises the future of the country.” Questions have arisen on whether the drug addiction crisis could have stemmed from poor communication within families. Many teenagers are believed to fall into addiction not merely due to external influences but because they lack safe spaces for expression and sharing. Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said in addition to social pressures and environmental factors, the failure to establish effective communication between parents and children is a contributor to the problem. “Do not let life’s pressures or gaps in communication rob children of their future.” He emphasised the

Enforcement officers arrested over alleged ‘Flying Passport’ case JOHOR BAHRU: Two

said the suspects, a 31-year-old officer and a 49-year-old supervisor, were detained at 9pm following surveillance by the agency’s Compliance Unit. She said surveillance at 7.30pm detected several suspicious visitor data entries

The practice refers to the misuse of passports, including clearing them illegally without the holders being physically present. Border Control and Protection Agency (MBCA) BSI CIQ commander Roszita Dim

enforcement officers were arrested at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex on Friday night over alleged involvement in a “Flying Passport” case.

Items seized during the operation included 14 foreign passports and RM2,800 in cash.– BERNAMAPIC

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025

Overweight teen keen to ‘break free’

Unable to engage in sports and active tasks, 14-year-old undergoes treatment to escape from 103kg ‘prison’

Mohd Yuzaini expressed belief that his son’s obesity was likely not solely due to his diet, adding that it may be influenced by genetic factors, although no medical tests have been carried out to confirm his suspicions. “Many members of my family, including me, have obesity issues,” he said, adding his weight once peaked at 165kg (his height is 176cm). “In the past, I used to be active in rugby. When we are involved in sports, we eat and stay active, so we are able to keep our weight under control. But later on, I stopped playing rugby and focused on my job. I became physically less active and started to gain weight.” Mohd Yuzaini, who has six siblings and is the eldest, said his immediate younger sibling passed away due to heart disease caused by obesity. “Another two siblings are also obese, with one having lost a leg due to diabetes,” he said, adding that in 2007, he decided to undergo bariatric surgery after his doctor warned he would eventually develop diabetes, hypertension and heart disease if he did not undergo the procedure.

KUALA LUMPUR: Like any other teenager, Muhammad Mikhael Qaiser Mohd Yuzaini longs to participate in sports and physical activities. But the 14-year-old tires easily and cannot stand for extended periods or handle physically demanding tasks. The main reason – his weight. As of early March, he weighed 103kg, a figure considered obese for his height of 168cm. “I’m truly determined to lose weight this year because I want to live a healthier and more active life,” said Muhammad Mikhael, who is currently undergoing treatment to reduce weight. According to the World Health Organisation, Malaysia has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in Southeast Asia. Childhood obesity in Malaysia has been on a steady rise over the past 15 years, with over 30% of children aged five to 17 classified as overweight or

obese in 2022. Overweight is a condition of excessive fat deposits in the body, while obesity is a chronic complex disease defined by excessive fat deposits that could impair health. Obesity could lead to increased risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. It could also affect bone health and reproduction, and increase the risk of certain cancers. Muhammad Mikhael’s father Mohd Yuzaini Abu Bakar, 48, said his son has always been “cute and chubby”, adding that he loved milk and could consume eight big bottles per day until the age of three. Mohd Yuzaini, a medical laboratory technologist at Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC), said he and his wife, who also works at UMMC, began consulting a paediatrician when their son was four years old due to concerns about his rapid

Mohd Yuzaini believes that his son’s condition may be due to a combination of excessive food intake and genetic factors. – BERNAMAPIC

“Whether it’s home-cooked or food bought outside, he’s fine with it. There was a time when every time we went out, he insisted on getting a drink from a popular coffee chain, although we knew it was high in sugar. “As parents, sometimes we just couldn’t say no to him,” he said.

weight gain. Since both parents work at UMMC, they were more exposed to health information and found it easier to access medical support, Bernama reported. On Muhammad Mikhael’s eating habits, Mohd Yuzaini said he loves to eat and is not picky about food.

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theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025

WORLD 7

HK issues arrest warrants for 19 overseas activists HONG KONG: Security police here announced arrest warrants for 19 activists based overseas, accusing them of subversion under a stringent national security law, marking the largest such tally yet. They are accused of organising or taking part in the “Hong Kong Parliament”, a group that authorities say aimed to subvert state power. The activists are accused of having launched a referendum or run as candidates in the “Parliament” group, which authorities say aims at achieving self-determination and drafting a “Hong Kong constitution”. Police said they are still investigating and more arrests may follow. Among those named are businessman Elmer Yuen, commentator Victor Ho and activists Johnny Fok and Tony Choi. Four of them are subject to previous arrest warrants, each carrying a bounty of HK$1 million (RM530,000). Among the remaining 15, for each of whom police are offering a bounty of HK$200,000, are those said to have organised or run in the election and sworn in as its councillors. The UK foreign and home secretaries condemned the move in a joint statement, calling the arrests “another example of transnational repression” and saying it damages Hong Kong’s international reputation. “(The UK) will not tolerate attempts by foreign governments to coerce, intimidate, harass or harm their critics overseas,” it said in a statement on Friday. – Reuters Australia, Britain sign 50-year submarine treaty SYDNEY: Australia’s government said yesterday it signed a treaty with Britain to bolster cooperation over the next 50 years on the Aukus nuclear submarine partnership. The Aukus pact, agreed upon by Australia, Britain and the US in 2021, aims to provide Australia with nuclear-powered attack submarines from the next decade. Defence Minister Richard Marles said in a statement that the bilateral treaty was signed with Britain’s Defence Secretary John Healey yesterday after a meeting in the city of Geelong, in Victoria state. “The Geelong Treaty will enable comprehensive cooperation on the design, build, operation, sustainment, and disposal of our SSN-Aukus submarines,” the statement said. The treaty was a “commitment for the next 50 years of UK-Australian bilateral defence cooperation under Aukus Pillar I”, it said, adding that it built on the “strong foundation” of trilateral Aukus cooperation. Britain’s Defence Ministry said the bilateral treaty would underpin the two allies’ submarine programmes and was expected to be worth up to £20 billion (RM113.5 billion) for Britain in exports over the next 25 years. Aukus is Australia’s biggest-ever defence project. – Reuters

Cambodia calls for immediate ceasefire

formidable challenge. Analysts said if DPP gets control of the purse strings, even if only for a few months, it is likely to reverse the budget cuts and increase defence spending. Beijing has loomed large over the recall vote, with Taipei warning of “visible evidence” that China was trying to interfere in the process. KMT ties with Beijing and frequent visits by its lawmakers to China have raised concerns among critics over Chinese influence on the party. For KMT lawmakers to lose their seat, the number of votes in favour of recalling them must exceed those against and also be more than 25% of the total number of registered voters in the electorate. – AFP more than 138,000 people to be evacuated from Thailand’s border regions, with more than 35,000 driven from their homes in Cambodia. After the closed meeting of the Security Council in New York, Cambodia’s UN ambassador Chhea Keo said his country wanted a ceasefire. “Cambodia asked for an immediate ceasefire, unconditionally, and we also call for the peaceful solution of the dispute,” he told reporters. Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said yesterday for any ceasefire or talks to proceed, Cambodia needed to show “genuine sincerity in ending the conflict”. “I urge Cambodia to stop violating Thai sovereignty and to return to resolving the issue through bilateral dialogue,” Maris told reporters. Thai Foreign Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura said on Friday, before the UN meeting was held, that Bangkok was open to talks, possibly aided by Malaysia. Cambodia has accused Thai forces of using cluster munitions. Former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited shelters yesterday to meet evacuees. “The military needs to complete its operations before any dialogue can take place,” Thaksin told reporters. The 76-year-old said he had no plans to contact Hun Sen, Cambodia’s powerful ex-prime minister, who was long a close ally. “His actions reflect a disturbed mindset. He should reflect on his conduct,” Thaksin said of Hun Sen. – AFP

SAMRAONG Thailand Cambodia clashed for a third day yesterday, as the death toll from their bloodiest fighting in years rose to 33 and Phnom Penh called for an “immediate ceasefire”. A border dispute erupted into intense conflict involving jets, artillery, tanks and ground troops on Thursday, prompting the UN Security Council to hold an emergency meeting on the crisis on Friday. The Cambodian Defence Death toll rises in border clashes (Cambodia): and

province, which borders Thailand’s Trat province – on the coast some 250km southwest of the main frontlines. AFP journalists in the Cambodian town of Samraong, near the ridge of hills that marks the border and has seen the bulk of the fighting, heard the thumping of artillery yesterday afternoon. A Thai villager reached by phone as he sheltered in a bunker in Sisaket province, just 10km from the frontier, also reported hearing artillery. “I just want this to end as soon as possible,” said Sutian Phiewchan. The fighting has forced

Ministry said 13 people were confirmed killed in the fighting, including eight civilians and five soldiers, with 71 people injured. In Thailand, the army said five soldiers were killed on Friday, taking the toll there to 20, comprising 14 civilians and six military personnel. The death toll across the two countries is now higher than the 28 killed in the last major round of fighting between 2008 and 2011. Both sides reported a clash at about 5am (same time in Malaysia), with Cambodia accusing Thai forces of firing “five heavy artillery shells” into locations in Pursat

Thai citizen Juam, 50 sits next to her dog Krati inside a shelter in Srisaket province yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

Taiwan votes in high-stakes recall election TAIPEI: Taiwanese voters turned out at schools, temples and community centres yesterday to cast their ballots in a high-stakes recall election that could give President Lai Ching-te’s party control of the parliament. 24 KMT lawmakers facing potential recall. Elections for another seven KMT lawmakers will be held on Aug 23.

While Lai won the presidential election last year, his DPP party lost its majority in the legislature. Since then, KMT and TPP have joined forces to stymie Lai’s agenda, and slashed or frozen parts of the government budget. Contentious opposition Bills, including an attempt to expand parliament’s powers, sparked brawls in the legislature and massive street protests. DPP needs a minimum of 12 KMT lawmakers recalled to gain temporary control of the parliament, with risk analysis firm Eurasia Group giving that outcome “a 60% probability”. Lai’s party would then need to flip six seats in by-elections later this year to cement its dominance in the parliament, which analysts say would be a

In Taipei, residents queued in school hallways and temples. AFP saw an elderly man arrive at a primary school in an ambulance, which had brought him from hospital so he could vote in favour of the recall. A 71-year-old woman surnamed Tseng said she was voting against the recall, arguing the process was “costly” and the government should instead “focus on improving the economy and social welfare”. Both major parties held rallies in recent days to urge supporters to take part in the election, which could upend the balance of power in parliament.

Civic groups backed by Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) are seeking to unseat 31 lawmakers belonging to the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party, which they accuse of being pro-China and a threat to the democratic island’s security. KMT, which wants closer ties with Beijing, controls parliament with the help of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) and has slammed the recall effort as a DPP power grab. Polling stations opened at 8am (same time in Malaysia) with

theSun on Sunday JULY 27, 2025

WORLD 8

Beijing urges consensus on AI development, security

Disgraced ex-congressman reports to prison NEW YORK: Disgraced former Republican lawmaker George Santos, who was expelled from the US Congress for using stolen donor cash to bankroll a lavish lifestyle, reported to prison on Friday to start his seven-year sentence. Santos, 37, had pleaded guilty to wire fraud and identity theft for his elaborate grifting while a lawmaker representing New York. He turned himself in at the federal prison in Fairton, New Jersey, the Bureau of Prisons said. Despite his guilty plea, prosecutors insisted Santos’ social media showed his claims of remorse “ring hollow” and Judge Joanna Seybert in April handed down a sentence of seven years and three months. Santos was elected to the US House of Representatives in 2022 and indicted the following year for stealing campaign donors’ identities and using their credit cards. He was ultimately doomed by the congressional probe that found overwhelming evidence of misconduct and accused him of seeking to “fraudulently exploit every aspect of his House candidacy”. Santos was expelled from the House in 2023, becoming only the third person to be ejected as a US lawmaker since the Civil War, a rebuke previously reserved for traitors and convicted criminals. – AFP US, China cross swords over Ukraine NEW YORK: The United States told China at the United Nations on Friday it should “stop fuelling Russia’s aggression”. Acting US Ambassador to the UN Dorothy Shea urged all countries, specifically naming China, to stop exports to Russia of dual-use goods that Washington says contribute to Russia’s war industrial base. “Beijing’s claim to have implemented strong export controls on dual-use goods falls apart in the face of daily recovery of Chinese-produced components in the drones, weapons, and vehicles,” Shea told a meeting of the 15-member UN Security Council on Ukraine. China did not start the war in Ukraine, is not a party to the conflict, has never provided lethal weapons, and has always “strictly controlled dual-use materials, including the export of drones”, China’s deputy UN Ambassador Geng Shuang responded. “We urge the US to stop shifting blame or creating confrontation and instead play a more constructive role in promoting ceasefire and peace talks,” he told the council. – Reuters

‘Defining test of international cooperation’

“To survive,” he said, you need to ensure you can train it not to kill you when it grows up. In a video message played at the WAIC opening ceremony, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said AI governance would be “a defining test of international cooperation”. The ceremony also saw the French president’s AI envoy, Anne Bouverot, underscore “an urgent need” for global action. At an AI summit in Paris in February, 58 countries including China, France and India – as well as the European Union and African Union Commission – called for enhanced coordination on AI governance. But the United States warned against “excessive regulation”, and alongside the United Kingdom, refused to sign the summit’s appeal for an “open”, “inclusive” and “ethical” AI. – AFP

Washington has expanded its efforts in recent years to curb exports of state-of-the-art chips to China, concerned that these can be used to advance Beijing’s military systems and erode US tech dominance. For its part, China has made AI a pillar of its plans for technological self-reliance, with the government pledging a raft of measures to boost the sector. In January, Chinese startup DeepSeek unveiled an AI model that performed as well as top US systems despite using less powerful chips. At a time when AI is being integrated across virtually all industries, its uses have raised major ethical questions, from the spread of misinformation to its impact on employment, or the potential loss of technological control. In a speech, physicist Geoffrey Hinton compared the situation to keeping “a very cute tiger cub as a pet”.

SHANGHAI: Premier Li Qiang has warned that artificial intelligence development must be weighed against security risks, saying global consensus was urgently needed even as the tech race between Beijing and Washington shows no sign of abating. His remarks came just days after President Donald Trump unveiled an aggressive low regulation strategy aimed at cementing US dominance in the fast-moving field, promising to “remove red tape and onerous regulation” that could hinder private sector AI development. Opening the World AI Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai yesterday, Li emphasised the need for governance and open source development, announcing the establishment of a Chinese-led body for international AI cooperation. “The risks and challenges

brought intelligence drawn widespread attention ... How to find a balance between development and security urgently requires further consensus from the entire society,” he said. Li said China would “actively promote” the development of open-source AI, adding Beijing was willing to share advances with other countries. “If we engage in technological monopolies, controls and blockage, artificial intelligence will become the preserve of a few countries and a few enterprises,” he said. “Only by adhering to openness, sharing and fairness in access to intelligence can more countries and groups benefit from (AI).” Li highlighted “insufficient supply of computing power and chips” as a bottleneck. by artificial have

UN chief blasts ‘lack of compassion’ for Palestinians NEW YORK: UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres on Friday slammed the international community for turning a blind eye to widespread starvation in the Gaza Strip, calling it a “moral crisis that challenges the global conscience”.

“I cannot explain the level of indifference and inaction we see by too many in the international community – the lack of compassion, the lack of truth, the lack of humanity,” Guterres told Amnesty International’s global assembly via video link. “This is not just a humanitarian crisis. It is a moral crisis that challenges the global conscience. We will continue to speak out at every opportunity.” Aid groups have warned of surging cases of starvation in Gaza, which Israel placed under an aid blockade in March. That blockade was partially eased two months later. The trickle of aid since then has been controlled by the Israeli- and US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, replacing the UN-led distribution system. International Committee of the Red Cross President Mirjana Spoljaric said on Friday “there is no excuse for what is happening in Gaza”. “The scale of human suffering and the stripping of human dignity have long exceeded every acceptable standard – both legal and moral.” Spoljaric said the ICRC has

Concerned New Yorkers protesting in front of the UN headquarters on Friday. – REUTERSPIC

aid supplies since May 27, when the GHF began operations. “We need action: an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, immediate and unimpeded humanitarian access.” He said the United Nations was ready to “dramatically scale up humanitarian operations” in Gaza should Israel and Hamas reach a ceasefire deal. – AFP

“The scale and scope is beyond anything we have seen in recent times,” he said. “Children speak of wanting to go to heaven, because at least, they say, there is food there. We hold video calls with our own humanitarians who are starving before our eyes ... But words don’t feed hungry children.” Guterres also condemned the killing of more than 1,000 Palestinians trying to access food

more than 350 staff in Gaza, “many of whom are also struggling to find enough food and clean water”. Aid groups and the United Nations have refused to work with the GHF, accusing it of aiding Israeli military goals. Guterres said while he had repeatedly condemned the Oct 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, “nothing can justify the explosion of death and destruction since”.