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‘Call for urgent reforms to plug security loopholes’

THURSDAY AUG 7, 2025

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Recurring corruption cases underscore need for tighter oversight at entry points and stricter disciplinary action against offenders: Social activist

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KING MEETS PUTIN ... His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, shakes hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow yesterday. – AFPPIC

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CJ vows to defend judicial independence

South Korea-bound students reminded they are not just competitors but also ambassadors of nation’s innovation. 16 told to do M’sia proud at world robotics contest

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In his first official address as chief justice, Wan Ahmad Farid stresses the courts must never yield to external pressure.

Madani concept for housing projects Report on h page 2 They must include core public facilities – particularly schools and kindergartens – to ensure they meet real community needs, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

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King arrives in Russia for maiden state visit MOSCOW: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, arrived here for a six-day state visit to Russia.

After concluding his programme in Moscow, His Majesty will travel to Kazan in the Republic of Tatarstan for the second segment of the state visit. Sultan Ibrahim, who ascended the federal throne on Jan 31, 2024, is making his maiden state visit to Russia at the invitation of Putin. This visit has been described as historic as it is the first state visit by a Malaysian head of state to Russia since diplomatic relations were established in 1967. This is the fourth state visit by Sultan Ibrahim after his official visits to Singapore, China and Brunei. – Bernama

Sultan Ibrahim then departed for his hotel in Moscow where His Majesty was greeted by staff of the Malaysian embassy and their family members as well as 30 Malaysian students. During the visit, Sultan Ibrahim will be accorded a state welcome ceremony at the Kremlin before holding an official meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and attending a state banquet hosted by the president. His Majesty will also visit the Central Scientific Research Automobile and Automotive Engines Institute as well as the Tochka Kipeniya Technology and Innovation Hub.

attendance, Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin and Malaysian Ambassador to Russia Datuk Cheong Loon Lai. Sultan Ibrahim was also received by Russian Science and Higher Education Minister Valery Falkov and Russian Foreign Affairs Ministry State Protocol Department acting director Georgiy Kuznetsov. The national anthems of both nations were played and His Majesty walked past a guard-of honour, accompanied by Falkov and Kuznetsov, before being greeted by dignitaries from both Malaysia and Russia.

The special aircraft carrying His Majesty touched down at the Vnukovo2 International Airport at 2.20pm (7.20pm Malaysian time) on Tuesday. Present to welcome His Majesty at the airport were Russian Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister Alexander Pankin and Russian Ambassador to Malaysia Nayl Latypov. Also present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin as the minister-in

KL City Hall initiative to

Anwar, accompanied by Wan Azizah and Zaliha, viewing a model of the Residensi Aman Madani project in Bandar Sri Permaisuri at the event yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

recover millions in unpaid rentals Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com PETALING JAYA: Kuala Lumpur City Hall is intensifying efforts to recover millions in unpaid rent from public housing tenants through a “Task Force on Rental Defaulters” operation, including cutting off water supply to units with prolonged arrears. In a written response to Parliament, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said the action complies with Clause 9 of Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s housing rental agreement, which permits the mayor to disconnect water supply for non-payment. “However, City Hall faces challenges as many tenants ignore engagement efforts or fail to follow through with agreed instalment plans, making recovery efforts difficult without their cooperation.” Responding to Bukit Bintang MP Fong Kui Lun’s query on the RM70 million owed by public housing tenants to Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Zaliha said ongoing initiatives including engagement sessions, enforcement actions, arrears notices and the “Jom Bayar Sewa PA/PPR” campaign have helped reduce arrears by RM1.09 million. “City Hall conducts on-site negotiations and door-to-door visits with portable payment devices. Flexible instalment plans and multiple payment channels, including online options, are also offered.” Zaliha reminded tenants to take responsibility for consistent rent payment to avoid accumulating arrears and the risk of enforcement or eviction. Separately, she said City Hall is implementing integrated measures aligned with its “one house, one parking lot” policy to alleviate traffic congestion and ensure that emergency vehicles such as fire engines and ambulances have access to high-density housing areas. “To ease reliance on private vehicles, City Hall has expanded its free GOKL bus service, now operating 15 routes in 11 parliamentary constituencies with high-frequency intervals, to encourage public transport use, and is enhancing pedestrian infrastructure with more covered walkways.” Zaliha said more than 5,000 CCTVs have been installed in transit areas for public safety, while last-mile connectivity is being improved through the construction of bicycle lanes and multi-storey parking facilities near transit stations. “City Hall has also built 14 multi-storey car parks in People’s Housing Projects and Public Housing areas, with 13 currently operational. New projects will be considered based on actual occupancy data and site suitability.” She said these efforts are aimed at balancing residents’ parking needs with the necessity for emergency access.

‘Madani principles must be reflected in housing projects’ o Urban planning must focus on ensuring access to

“This is what the Madani framework is about – proper planning, not just building for the sake of building.” The Residensi Aman Madani project is part of the government’s broader housing agenda under the Madani initiative, which prioritises affordability, livability and inclusivity. As part of the project, 18 Gerai Penjaja Madani units will also be built to support local entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises. Anwar said small traders and hawker stalls must not be sidelined in favour of large commercial outlets. “About 85% of people in Kuala Lumpur eat at small stalls and warung . Only 15% go to high end restaurants. We’re not against upscale eateries but city planning must reflect the needs of the majority.” He criticised the poor state of many hawker stalls, some with leaking roofs and inadequate amenities. “Our focus can’t just be on gleaming towers. We must also uplift the small businesses that matter to ordinary people. “City planning must be free from corruption and focused on the real needs of the people – food, education, healthcare, transport and public spaces.”

essential facilities, such as education, healthcare, childcare and green spaces, particularly for low-income families: PM

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

proceed in full,” he said at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Residensi Aman Madani project in Bandar Sri Permaisuri yesterday. Present were Bandar Tun Razak MP Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Federal Territories Minister Dr Zaliha Mustafa and Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif. “I’ve directed that kindergartens be incorporated within the building. If they aren’t already planned, this needs to be corrected.” Anwar pointed out that many urban families earning RM2,000 to RM3,000 a month are forced to send their children to distant facilities. To ensure compliance, he has summoned the developer, the Kuala Lumpur mayor and relevant authorities to meet him next Monday with an updated layout. “It won’t take long, just 10 minutes. Show me where the school, the kindergarten, the preschool area and the healthcare facility are.

KUALA LUMPUR: All major housing developments must be aligned with Madani principles and include core public amenities, particularly schools and kindergartens, to ensure that they meet real community needs, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said proper urban planning must move beyond the construction of buildings and focus on ensuring access to essential facilities, such as education, healthcare, childcare and green spaces, particularly for low-income families. He added that projects located far from existing schools must allocate a dedicated block for a vertical school, and every new development must include a preschool within the building. “These are clear instructions. If these conditions are not met, the project cannot

THURSDAY | AUG 7, 2025

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Govt targets one million affordable homes under 13MP PETALING JAYA: The Housing and Local Government Ministry will accelerate housing reform and construction technology adoption under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), with a focus on building one million affordable homes and integrating housing with public transport systems. Minister Nga Kor Ming said the 13MP sets a clear path for sustainable urban development while ensuring no community is left behind. “The strategies and initiatives strengthen Malaysia’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, in line with our role as President of the UN-Habitat Assembly,” he said in a statement yesterday. A key thrust of the plan is the expansion of the industrialised building system (IBS) and building information modelling (BIM) in the construction sector, he said. “The technologies will reduce costs, waste and project timelines, while improving quality and productivity.” He said widespread use of IBS and BIM will directly support the government’s long-term goal of delivering one million affordable homes over the next decade. The ministry will also push for broader implementation of transit-oriented development (TOD) strategies to improve urban mobility and access. “By integrating affordable housing projects with public transport systems through TOD, we can improve access – especially for the B40 group – to education and employment opportunities.” Nga said the ministry is also developing an integrated housing data repository to ensure housing policies are aligned with the actual needs and affordability levels of the rakyat. On concerns over homeownership security, he said the ministry is reviewing regulations to mandate the handover of strata titles at the point of vacant possession. Efforts to support the urban hardcore poor will continue, including home repair and rebuilding programmes, he added. “Between 2023 and 2024, the ministry repaired 4,814 homes and built 245 new units, using a total allocation of RM104.4 million. “Solid waste management will also be strengthened under the circular economy framework, with improved systems to ensure long-term sustainability and efficiency.” Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

CJ vows to defend judicial independence

Ű BY AZURA ABAS newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Wan Ahmad Farid pledges unwavering commitment to impartiality, reform and accountability in first address as chief justice

upholding your client’s interest. “Datuk Wan Adnan reminded me, ‘Your decisions will echo far beyond your chambers. We are ultimately answerable to our creator.’” With their guidance, the chief justice reiterated his commitment to uphold the judiciary’s independence and made clear it must be protected at all costs. “When all avenues of recourse are closed, the rakyat and even the government will look to the courts for an impartial resolution of their disputes. To my brother and sister judges, let us not fail them. “I am not in this chair because I am the best. Far from it. I was not born great, nor have I achieved greatness. What I have is the responsibility of leadership entrusted to me.” The chief justice noted his post is not a tashrif (privilege), but taklif – a heavy trust and serious accountability. He reminded judges that while not all parties will be pleased with a verdict, every litigant must feel heard. “Do not shut them out. Ensure the losing party walks away knowing they were given the right to be heard and their day in court.” The chief justice also said the judiciary would continue working alongside the Bar and AGC to uphold justice. “In my working visits to the states in the next few months, I will continue my engagement with the stakeholders. “I am particularly excited to meet the Young Lawyers Committees of the State Bars. I say so because I am committed to seeing an improvement in the standards of advocacy among young lawyers in our courts.” Wan Ahmad Farid closed with a call for all players in the legal ecosystem – from judges to prosecutors and lawyers – to move forward together. “Let there be a strong message that judicial independence shall remain loud and clear – echoing not just through the halls of the Palace of Justice, but through all corners of society and every corridor of power in this country.” where road surfaces are not properly restored after excavation. He said the ministry will also conduct a swell investigation (soil testing) to assess soil and structural stability for elevated roads. This involves studying how soil or materials expand when exposed to changes like moisture or temperature. “In flood-prone areas, roads will be raised to ensure they remain accessible during the monsoon season.” On pothole complaints, Nga said they must be addressed within 24 hours of being reported, while other types of road damage must be resolved within 15 working days.

PETALING JAYA: Chief Justice Datuk Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh has vowed to defend the judiciary’s independence, stressing that the courts must never yield to external pressure. “I give you my unconditional pledge, in the name of my creator – I will vigorously protect and relentlessly safeguard the independence of our branch of government with every fibre of my being,” he said in his first official address as chief justice. Wan Ahmad Farid, who has served in all three branches of government, acknowledged his political past, but made it clear that he now speaks only as the chief justice. “I cannot erase my history, political or otherwise. Nor do I want to. That is who I am. But as I assume this most solemn amanah (trust) and for as long as I occupy this chair, I will uphold the judiciary’s independence.” Quoting poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou, the chief justice stressed that understanding past crises – notably the 1988 judicial crisis and the events leading to the 2007 Royal Commission of Inquiry – is essential to reform.

“The AGC must strike a delicate balance between its prosecutorial powers and its role as government advisor. I trust it will act with integrity in upholding judicial independence.” On the Bar’s responsibilities, he quoted Section 42(1)(a) of the Legal Profession Act 1976: “Its purpose is to uphold the cause of justice without regard to its own interests or that of its members, uninfluenced by fear or favour.” Calling for more Bench and Bar engagement, he cited his participation in the KL Bar Run: “It is far easier for us to reach out to each other and speak on matters of importance while wearing t-shirts and sweatpants.” The chief justice also paid tribute to his mentors – the late Tan Sri Wan Adnan Ismail and his cousin, former Court of Appeal judge Datuk Wan Adnan Muhammad – for shaping his principles. “Tan Sri Wan Adnan told me, ‘Be honest. There is no room for intellectual dishonesty in

“If you don’t know where you’ve come from, you don’t know where you’re going. Only by recognising and learning from the past can we chart a meaningful future,” he said. Laying out his reform agenda, Wan Ahmad Farid committed to: 0 Assigning circuit judges to fast track ageing cases; 0 Expanding mobile courts to Peninsular Malaysia; 0 Reviving circuit sittings for apex courts outside the Klang Valley; 0 Strengthening commercial law specialisation to boost investor confidence; and 0 Advancing the use of technology and AI to widen access to justice. The chief justice said these are not miracle promises, but they are actionable steps. “Let us be a towering example on the world stage.” Wan Ahmad Farid also reminded the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), the Malaysian Bar and its East Malaysian counterparts of their shared duty to uphold the rule of law.

Wan Ahmad Farid said his post is not a tashrif (privilege), but taklif - a heavy trust and serious accountability. – PIC COURTESY OF THE MALAYSIAN JUDICIARY

Road complaints made easier with enhanced MyJalan app

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

location pin on the map and complete the complaint form before submission. “To date, around 53,000 users have downloaded the app via the Apple App Store, Google Play and Huawei AppGallery, proving that claims of it being difficult to use are not true.” Ahmad Maslan also identified several causes of road damage, including weather changes (such as alternating rain and heat or flooding), overloaded heavy vehicles – which are being addressed in coordination with the Road Transport Department – ageing road surfaces, substandard pavement quality and utility works

respective agencies will directly inform the complainant of the resolution,” he said in response to a supplementary question from Mohamad Shafizan Kepli (GPS–Batang Lupar). Ahmad Maslan said the ministry has enhanced the MyJalan app based on user feedback and emerging technological needs, with one key improvement – the ability for users to lodge complaints even if they are not physically present at the site of damage. He explained users must identify the damaged location using the in-app Google Maps search, drop a

under other authorities. They include municipal roads overseen by the Housing and Local Government Ministry, village roads under the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, agricultural routes under the Irrigation and Drainage Department and state roads managed by respective state governments. “For the federal roads, users can monitor the status of complaint resolutions via the MyJalan app under the status section. For complaints under the responsibility of other parties that do not use the Public Complaint Management System, the

PETALING JAYA: The MyJalan mobile application, developed by the Works Ministry, has recorded a total of 39,371 road-related complaints from Aug 2023 until June 30 this year. During the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat yesterday, Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan said of the total complaints, 11,959 cases (30.4%) involved federal roads under the ministry, while the remaining 27,412 reports (69.6%) were related to roads

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Open burning prompts landfill relocation GUA MUSANG: A landfill located by the Gua Musang-Lojing road, near Kampung Kundur in Negeri Sembilan will be moved to a new site to solve the ongoing problem of open burning that has caused thick smoke for more than two years. Gua Musang District Council president Mohd Roshdi Ismail said the new location would be in the same area but at a different site that is more suitable and controlled. He said this relocation would allow the council to make improvements at the original site, including closing the access roads that are often trespassed by irresponsible parties. “The work of backfilling the existing pile of waste will be done using land owned by the state government and local residents, with the consent of the owners on a win win basis.” Mohd Roshdi announced that a directive for immediate action has been issued, including carrying out improvement works and installing fences around the site to prevent trespassing. “Residents and road users on the Gua Musang-Lojing route have to inhale thick smoke every day, leading to health risks and poor visibility when driving.” The situation is believed to be caused by open burning by irresponsible individuals, affecting more than 5,000 residents in the nearby areas of Kuala Betis, Felcra Panggong Lalat, Lojing Highlands and Cameron Highlands A survey by Bernama found that smoke was still coming from the waste pile, despite several days of rain. More than 1,000 BATU GAJAH: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry seized 1,899 14kg liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders of at an illegal storage facility in the Bemban Industrial Estate on Tuesday. Perak enforcement director Datuk Kamalludin Ismail said the raid was conducted at 6.30pm following intelligence information and a week-long monitoring of activities at the premises. He said the enforcement team discovered 1,899 LPG cylinders believed to be used in illegal decanting activities, in which gas from subsidised 14kg cylinders is transferred into other tanks. “A total of 1,899 LPG cylinders were found, comprising 871 filled cylinders and 1,028 empty ones. More than 18,000kg of LPG was seized, with an estimated value of RM66,508,“ he told reporters during an inspection at the site. Kamalludin said investigations revealed that the modus operandi of the activities involved purchasing subsidised 14kg LPG cylinders from across Perak and other states, then transferring the gas into other tanks for distribution to industrial users for commercial purposes. – Bernama gas cylinders seized in raid

o Initiative led by Higher Education Ministry to boost national standing in tech, innovation

compete HuroCup,

in

four

categories,

Autonomous Car, A-Drone Autonomous Race and A-Drone Emergency Service, represented by Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah, Politeknik Sultan Azlan Shah, Politeknik Port Dickson and Politeknik Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah. Farhan said robotics strengthens the role of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) in industrial automation. “Many do not realise how robotics ties into TVET. It incorporates AI, Internet of Things (IoT), real-time vision systems and automation, skills that are critical for Industry 4.0 and beyond.” He added that the team is targeting at least 10 medals, with the HuroCup alone offering up to 14 potential wins through two participating teams. Farhan also expressed confidence in the capability of the students to match international competitors. “One of the challenges is the academic level gap. We are sending diploma students, but internationally, most are degree or postgraduate level. “Even so, our students have beaten them before. Two years ago, three of our students brought home six medals.” He added that each medal winner would also receive RM1,000 as a token of appreciation and motivation. He expressed hope that the experience would inspire appreciation for robotics in TVET and encourage students to aim higher. Among the students heading to South Korea is 20-year-old Harith Adly Hilmi from Politeknik Sultan Azlan Shah, who will compete in the basketball robotics category. He admitted he was not initially interested in robotics until he joined waste management remains under the purview of the respective state governments, local authorities and related agencies. Aiman Athirah said services, including cleaning up illegal dumps, are implemented based on referrals from local authorities regardless of whether the sites are within their jurisdiction. However, she clarified that no special allocations are provided to state governments or other agencies for managing illegal dumping outside of local council areas. Act 672 also empowers the federal government to enforce actions against illegal dumping in all local authority areas. The Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Corporation (SWCorp) carried out 3,036 operations in 2024 to eliminate illegal dump sites and an additional 2,030

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Housing and Local Government deputy minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu told the Dewan Rakyat yesterday that through Budget 2025, the ministry has received an allocation of RM1.54 billion to finance solid waste management and public cleansing operations. This includes garbage collection, public cleaning, enforcement and the clearing of illegal dumpsites in seven states governed under the Solid Waste Management and Public Cleansing Act 2007 (Act 672). The states covered under Act 672 include Perlis, Kedah, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Malacca, Johor and the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. For other states not under Act 672, KUALA LUMPUR: Sixteen students from four Malaysian polytechnics will carry the Jalur Gemilang to the 30th FIRA RoboWorld Cup and Summit 2025 in Daegu, South Korea, an international robotics event featuring the latest in bipedal robotics, artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems. At the flag-off ceremony at Seri Pacific Hotel, Higher Education deputy minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud urged students to see themselves not just as competitors but as ambassadors of innovation. “You are not just going to Daegu as students. You are representing Malaysia. “With only 16 participants, you are the country’s unsung heroes. Share your journey and show how Malaysia competes with the world.” Coaching one of the key categories, HuroCup, Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah robotics coach Muhammad Farhan Uzair Faisal said preparations began last year, with students selected through project showcases and national trials. “Our main challenge is not the technical side, but to maintain consistency in performance. “Scoring is based on time and task execution, such as getting bipedal robots to sprint, detect patches and return to the start within three minutes.” The Malaysian contingent will Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

The team will compete in four categories, HuroCup, Autonomous Car, A-Drone Autonomous Race and A-Drone Emergency Service. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Pendidikan Politeknik dan Kolej Komuniti under the Higher Education Ministry. Director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Zahari Ismail said the effort supports the ministry’s goal of elevating the standing of Malaysia in tech and innovation through TVET. “FIRA RoboWorld Cup is a global stage for creativity, problem-solving and teamwork. “These students are proof that polytechnic education can produce world-class talent.” Malaysia’s previous achievements include the Best Technical Startup Award by Politeknik Port Dickson in 2024 and multiple medals in the HuroCup category in 2023 by Politeknik Sultan Idris Shah and Politeknik Sultan Azlan Shah. The 2025 event runs from Aug 11 to Aug 15 in Daegu, South Korea. surveillance and site raids. Tampin MP Datuk Mohd Isam Mohd Isa raised concerns over waste management in Felda schemes, which are reportedly neglected due to unclear jurisdiction. He said when local authorities are approached, the common response is that Felda areas fall outside their responsibility. In response, Aiman Athirah confirmed that Felda areas are not under the jurisdiction of local councils and responsibility cannot be placed solely on one party. She also said Felda itself should initiate discussions to resolve waste management issues in its schemes. “As of now, no formal discussions have taken place between the Ministry and Felda,” she said, adding that such engagement could move forward in line with the authority provided under Act 672.

the club at his campus. “I did not know anything about robotics, but once I understood how it worked, such as coding, programming, building logic, I was hooked. “It is not something we learn in ‘regular’ classes, so we had to push ourselves.” Harith described the selection process as competitive, with only the top four or five students selected across all polytechnics. “I’m excited. It is an honour to represent Malaysia. My family was proud when they found out. “It is not something small, to be chosen for an international competition such as this. “In five years, I see myself in this field. Whether it is robotics or AI, I want to keep learning and contributing.” The initiative is led by the Jabatan operations up to June 2025, which included prosecution of offenders. “These integrated actions are part of government efforts to ensure a clean environment for all Malaysians. “But the responsibility of maintaining cleanliness should not fall on a single party. All stakeholders must come together to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment.” In response to a question from Merbok MP Tuan Mohd Nazri Abu Hassan on strategies to control illegal dumping by companies, she outlined several key initiatives. These include collaboration with the Malaysian Space Agency to detect illegal dumping using satellite imagery and geospatial data, the installation of CCTV cameras at illegal dumping hotspots and round-the-clock enforcement by SWCorp officers, involving

RM1.54b allocation for waste management

THURSDAY | AUG 7, 2025 5 Alleged robbery gang leader shot dead KUALA LUMPUR: Police shot and killed a man believed to be the mastermind of a robbery and housebreaking gang, in an incident in Jalan Bukit Tunku here yesterday. Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department acting director Datuk Fadil Marsus said the 36-year-old, with 44 criminal records including drug cases, is believed to be responsible for several housebreaking and robbery cases reported in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Perak since last year, involving losses of more than RM1 million. He said a team from the department and the Kuala Lumpur contingent department, who were conducting crime prevention duties under Op Api KL 3/2025 in the Bukit Tunku area, spotted the suspect in a car at 4.10am yesterday. “During an attempt to intercept the car, a shootout occurred, resulting in the suspect being killed at the scene. Several gunshots also struck the police vehicle,” he said. He added that a search of the suspect’s car uncovered a revolver, various burglary tools and a police vest. Fadil said checks on the car found that it was using a fake registration number and is believed to have been smuggled in from abroad. He said investigations showed that the gang targeted homes and business premises with safes, gold bars and cash, and are believed to have posed as police officers. “We believe the gang is also linked to a drug trafficking syndicate and may have dozens of members. Efforts to track down the remaining individuals are ongoing.” – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: A foreign man suspected of molesting a teenage girl in Bukit Sentosa, Rawang recently has been arrested by police. Hulu Selangor district police chief Supt Ibrahim Husin said the man was arrested on Tuesday after police received a report from the victim at 3pm on Sunday. “The suspect, 21, was arrested by the Hulu Selangor district police headquarters criminal investigation division thanks to a public tip-off,” he said, adding that the suspect did not have prior records and tested negative for drugs. The suspect has been remanded for three days for further investigation under Section 15(a)(1) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, he added. – Bernama Woman loses savings to investment scam KUANTAN: A woman trader has lost RM335,400 after falling victim to a non-existent online investment scheme. Pahang police chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said the 53-year-old was drawn to the investment after seeing an advertisement on Facebook on April 30 and subsequently contacted an individual who introduced herself as Serena via WhatsApp. “The victim was added to a WhatsApp group and instructed to download an investment app.” He said the victim made 22 transactions to seven bank accounts between June 2 and July 23, allegedly for investment purposes. Yahaya said based on the information displayed on the app, the victim believed she had made investment profits totalling RM4.8 million but was later asked to pay a 12% commission, or RM221,670, in order to make a withdrawal. “The victim, who had used her savings for the investment, realised that she had been duped when pressured to make additional payments.” He reminded the public to be cautious of online investment schemes that promise high returns within a short period, particularly those promoted on social media. – Bernama Foreigner nabbed for molesting teen

Push for urgent reforms to tighten border security

PETALING JAYA: The recent arrest of an immigration officer suspected of aiding a counter setting syndicate, along with the dismissal of 26 enforcement officers last year for corruption at the country’s entry points, has prompted experts to call for stricter disciplinary action and urgent reforms to plug security loopholes. Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the cases underscore a critical vulnerability in Malaysia’s border security, namely internal corruption, as the collusion between enforcement personnel and criminal syndicates poses a direct threat to national security. “Undocumented migrants could easily exploit these weaknesses, undermining the integrity of the entire immigration system. This not only facilitates illegal activities, but also erodes public trust.” He said recurring corruption cases underscore the urgent need for structural reforms and tighter oversight at the country’s entry points while independent oversight bodies should conduct impartial investigations and provide innovative recommendations for system improvements. “Current integrity screening and monitoring systems are inadequate. While CCTV is helpful, it is insufficient. Strengthened measures are needed,” he said. He also emphasised the importance of introducing advanced technologies such as data analytics, biometrics and enhanced surveillance to detect threats, adding that regular audits are vital to uncover and fix vulnerabilities. “This is not the first time such misconduct has happened and it risks damaging the reputation of the Immigration Department. “Those implicated must face stern action, the loopholes must be plugged and the syndicate should be thoroughly investigated so that all responsible parties are brought to justice.” Universiti Malaya criminologist and senior lecturer Dr Haezreena Begum Abdul Hamid said corruption remains one of the main enablers of human illegal migration, trafficking and smuggling, particularly when Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com o Recurring corruption cases highlight need for stricter oversight at country’s entry points: Alliance chairman

Haezreena said the broader issue is national security as the bigger risk lies in allowing individuals to enter the country without proper documentation. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

“When these requirements, we have no way of knowing their intentions. Some may be victims of crimes such as trafficking, and many do not even realise that they are being exploited, believing their traffickers are legitimate agents. This makes them vulnerable and others may take advantage of them. “In doing so, we compromise our state sovereignty and expose the country to security risks. Borders are the first line of defence and the most crucial security point in any country,” she said. She clarified that while many migrants enter through legal channels, such as airports, and typically hold passports, problems arise when syndicates manipulate the screening process or when migrants enter via backdoor routes, such as through unmanned border areas in the north. “Our border systems are generally strong but corruption, bribery and abuse of power are hard to detect unless there is targeted monitoring,” she said. Haezreena emphasised that while corruption does exist among a few officers, most enforcement personnel do their jobs properly. “What is clear is that syndicates and recruiters often work with insiders, and those involved must be held accountable.” individuals bypass

enforcement officers are involved. “Corruption has always been listed as a pull factor in illegal migration, human trafficking and smuggling as officers are often lured by the extra money they could earn. “For example, if someone is paid RM100 for each undocumented person they let through and they facilitate 20 people, that is a significant amount. For some officers without other income, this becomes an illegal ‘side business,’” she said, adding that while this does not apply to all officers, those involved should not be ignored. Haezreena said counter setting is usually run by organised crime groups involving multiple “actors”, including immigration officers that might be stationed at counters and given partial passport details (such as the last four digits) to recognise individuals being let in, including smuggled migrants. “Sometimes they stamp the passport but skip the second level of screening. Other times, they do not even bother verifying the documents thoroughly. These syndicates are often transnational crime groups or big gangs,” she said. She added that the broader issue is national security as the bigger risk lies in allowing individuals to enter the country without proper documentation, which goes against our laws.

Agents managing illegal entry of Thais detected PASIR MAS: The Kelantan Immigration Department has detected the existence of a handful of agents believed to be using fake stamps to manage the entry of Thai workers into the country. stamp on the passport of a male driver in his 20s was suspicious because there was no exit stamp from Thai immigration. He was detained while another two did not have valid travel documents,” he said. being investigated under Section 6(1)(c) of the Immigration Act 1959/63 and would undergo a documentation process to identify the offences and modus operandi they used to cross the border.

“Investigations revealed that some of the Thai nationals who were checked had passports, but chose to take the risk of crossing Sungai Golok without reasonable excuse.” He said each Thai national is believed to have paid about RM80 to an agent to be sent to the Klang Valley, Bernama reported. “Most work in tomyam restaurants and the construction sector. For those with valid documents, we allowed them to continue their journey after the inspection,” he said.

He said the stamp on the passport owned by one of the drivers is suspected to be fake and irregular, and the case is being investigated under Section 56(1)(i) of the Immigration Act 1959/63. He added that two other Thai nationals were arrested for entering the country via an illegal route by crossing Sungai Golok before boarding a rented vehicle heading to the Klang Valley and Kuala Lumpur. Mohamed Yusoff Khan also said they are

Its director Mohamed Yusoff Khan Mohd Hassan said the anomaly was detected after his department detained six road tour vehicles that entered the country through the Rantau Panjang Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex. He said during the operation carried out on Tuesday, officers checked 42 Thai nationals, comprising 21 men and 21 women, aged between 20 and 30. “From the inspection, we found that the

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Call to set uphelp desks at govt hospitals

o Move will ensure elderly and invalid can access appropriate sections efficiently: NGO

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

patients to the appropriate sections without difficulty. “These individuals should be trained to assist patients through the hospital’s healthcare systems, ensuring the elderly and invalid are able to access the appropriate sections efficiently. “This could alleviate systemic burdens, such as long waiting times and administrative confusion.” He added that while Malaysia’s ageing population continues to rise and makes up a significant portion of patients at government hospitals and clinics, customer service support has not kept pace with medical advancements. Although PHA commended the government’s efforts to modernise hospital equipment and improve medical services, it also acknowledged that there remains a gap in assisting patients with on-site navigation and support. “PHA would like to record its admiration to the Health Ministry, hospital administrators and medical and non-medical staff for the excellent services provided, specifically to senior citizens. “Initiatives to equip government

PETALING JAYA: The Penang Hindu Association (PHA) has urged the Health Ministry to set up help desks at government hospitals and clinics to assist senior citizens and physically challenged individuals in navigating complex healthcare facilities. “PHA has received several complaints from senior citizens visiting hospitals that they had difficulties finding specific treatment rooms and had to resort to asking other patients for help. “In a typical hospital scenario, the consultation room, x-ray room, dressing room, pharmacy and other related medical care rooms are not necessarily situated side by side. “Some could even be on a different floor,” said PHA president Dauk P. Murugiah in a statement, stressing that such layouts often lead to confusion among elderly and disabled patients. To address this, PHA proposed the establishment of help desk counters near hospital entrances, staffed by “patient navigators” or trained personnel who could guide

Murugiah said while Malaysia’s ageing population makes up a significant portion of patients at government hospitals and clinics, customer service support has not kept pace with medical advancements. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

suggestion to set up a help desk at every government hospital and government clinic throughout the country when targeting areas to improve care for the ageing population seeking treatment.”

customer service is just as important as medical treatment, especially for the ageing and physically limited population. “PHA hopes that the Health Ministry would consider the

hospitals with up-to-date healthcare equipment should be lauded and are making these centres the hospital of choice for those seeking medical care.” However, he stressed that quality

Health and advocacy events to promote peace, awareness KUALA LUMPUR: The Rotary Club of Hartamas, in collaboration with Kita Pelari Malaysia and the KLCC Runners Group, will organise two major community health and advocacy events in September and October to promote peace, unity and public health awareness. compassion and a peaceful future through community engagement. Malaysians from all walks of life under the shared themes of peace-building and public health. awareness of Rotary’s mission and encourage Malaysians to participate in meaningful community service. The Rotary Club of Hartamas president Harrison Jub said these events aim to mobilise Malaysians to create a meaningful impact.

youth groups, with various activities planned on-site. Participants will receive event kits comprising race T-shirts, finisher medals and goodie bags. Additional activities will include fitness sessions, community booths and engagement opportunities for all ages. Registration will be available soon via RaceXAsia and Checkpoint Spot. Corporate sponsorship packages and media partnerships are welcome. – Bernama

This will be followed by the End Polio Run and Walk event on Oct 26 at the same venue, in observance of International Polio Month, aimed at raising awareness on polio and in support of global eradication efforts. “Globally, Rotary has championed the End Polio Now campaign since 1985, playing a leading role in the fight to eliminate polio worldwide. “Both events aim to bring together

“A portion of the proceeds will go towards the End Polio Now campaign and the Rotary Club of Hartamas’s Children’s Cancer Programme, a life changing initiative that provides vital support to children battling cancer,” it said. In conjunction with Rotary Membership Month in August, the events also aim to increase public

“When we run for peace, health and hope, we close the gap between despair and healing. We are honoured to move with purpose,” he said. The events are open to runners, walkers, families, corporate teams and

It said the Peace Run and Walk event, to be held on Sept 28 at Dataran DBKL, is being organised in conjunction with International Peace Month and aims to promote unity,

Education matters remain an important component of Malaysian society. Today the landscape is fast paced with new exciting developments in technology such as AI, coding, virtual reality, and cybersecurity, leading the way for changes in curriculum development. To showcase the latest and most updated content, we invite you join us in 2025, and be part of our Education Focus!

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Hiroshima warns against nuclear weapons

Indian army searches for missing flood victims

NEW DELHI: The Indian army brought in sniffer dogs, drones and heavy earth-moving equipment yesterday to search for scores missing a day after a deadly Himalayan flash flood. At least four people were killed and around 100 are unaccounted for – including 11 soldiers – after a wall of muddy water and debris tore down a narrow mountain valley, smashing into the town of Dharali in Uttarakhand state. “Additional army columns, along with army tracker dogs, drones, logistic drones, earthmoving equipment etc, have been moved ... to hasten the efforts,” the army said yesterday. Military helicopters were working to bring in “essential supplies, medicines and (for the) evacuation of the marooned”, it added. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the flood was caused by an intense “cloudburst” of rain, and that rescue teams had been deployed “on a war footing”. Videos broadcast on Indian media showed a terrifying surge of muddy water sweeping away apartment blocks in the tourist region on Tuesday afternoon. Several people could be seen running before being engulfed by the dark waves of debris that uprooted entire buildings. Images released by the army showed a river of slow-moving mud. A large part of the town was swamped by mud, with rescue officials estimating it was 15m deep in places. – AFP Monsoon peaks in south China BEIJING: Rescue crews raced yesterday to clear debris and flooded roads as southern China braced for more extreme rainfall and spreading infection after some of the worst downpours this century, as East Asian monsoon rains peak. Forecasters warned of more thunderstorms after the century’s second-heaviest August rains pounded Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, forcing its Baiyun airport, one of the world’s busiest, to cancel 363 flights. The day before, the skies above Hong Kong and the high-tech cities of China’s Pearl River Delta turned livid and dumped the heaviest August rainfall since 1884 on the Asian financial centre. Rescue crews in Guangdong scrambled to open drains and pump water away from urban areas, state media said, as the intense rain set off mudslides and felled trees on highways, tearing away road surfaces. Video images showed roads transformed into brown waterways, threatening to worsen a major outbreak of Chikungunya, fuelled by mosquitoes thriving in stagnant flood water, which had been on a downtrend before the latest rains. China has suffered weeks of atmospheric chaos since last month as it is battered by downpours heavier than usual batter with the East Asian monsoon stalling over its north and south. – Reuters

At least 122 were arrested trying to block roads and threatening law and order in the eastern city of Lahore, capital of Punjab province, said Deputy Inspector General of Police Faisal Kamran. The remainder were picked up in overnight raids in the province, two security officials said. Thousands rallied in support of Imran in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which is ruled by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, officials said. Police fired teargas in the cities of Karachi and Muzaffarabad. “Free Imran Khan!” chanted supporters outside a Lahore courthouse, while smaller groups staged protests across the city. Party spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari said over 200 activists were detained in Lahore alone. “Down with the government!” shouted a group of PTI women HIROSHIMA: Exactly 80 years since an atomic bomb was used in war for the first time, thousands bowed their heads in prayer in Hiroshima yesterday, as the city’s mayor warned world leaders about the nuclear warheads that still exist today. The western Japanese city of Hiroshima was levelled on Aug 6, 1945, when the United States dropped a uranium bomb nicknamed “Little Boy”, killing about 78,000 people instantly. Hiroshima was the headquarters of some military units and a major supply base during World War II. US war planners calculated that the surrounding mountains would concentrate the force of the bomb and enhance its destructiveness. “Little Boy” unleashed a surge of heat reaching 4,000º Celsius and radiation that killed tens of thousands more by the end of the year. It was followed by a plutonium bomb on Nagasaki three days later, and Japan’s surrender on Aug 15. Representatives from a record 120 countries and territories including nuclear superpower the United States, and Israel, which neither confirms nor denies having nuclear weaponry, attended the annual ceremony at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park for the milestone year. After a moment of silence observed at 8.15am (7.15am in Malaysia), the exact time of the blast, mayor Kazumi Matsui called on leaders to heed the lessons of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and o City marks 80 years since A-bomb

Japanese pray at a cenotaph for victims of the 1945 bombing at the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. – REUTERSPIC

want peace so they can live their lives happily.” In the decades following the attacks, survivors, called hibakusha , often faced discrimination as rumours spread that they carried diseases and their offspring could be tainted. Their numbers fell below 100,000 for the first time this year. Japan, the only country to have suffered nuclear attacks, has stated its commitment to nuclear disarmament but is not a signatory or observer of the UN treaty to ban nuclear weapons. – Reuters

frameworks that have been built for peace-building. “To all the leaders around the world: Please visit Hiroshima and witness for yourselves the reality of the atomic bombing.” Yoshikazu Horie, a 71-year-old tourist, expressed a similar sentiment. “It feels more and more like history is repeating itself. Terrible things are happening in Europe ... Even in Japan, in Asia, it’s going the same way, it’s very scary,” he said. “I’ve got grandchildren and I

warned of the consequences of the global trend towards a military buildup. “Among the world’s political leaders, there is a growing belief that possessing nuclear weapons is unavoidable to protect their own countries,” he said, noting that the US and Russia possessed 90% of the world’s nuclear warheads. “This situation not only nullifies the lessons the international community has learned from the tragic history of the past, but also seriously undermines the

Pakistani protesters demand ex-PM Imran’s release LAHORE: Police in Pakistan arrested more than 240 opposition party activists on Tuesday at protests calling for the release of their leader Imran Khan on the second anniversary of his jailing, security officials and police said. supporters rallying in Quetta, while nearly 2,000 activists in Karachi held demonstrations on bikes, rickshaws, and other vehicles, carrying posters of Imran and party flags before police dispersed them by firing teargas.

Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi remained quiet, with heavy police deployments on main roads. Uzma Bukhari, a spokesperson for Punjab’s provincial government, said the PTI cannot be allowed to create chaos by holding the protests, a charge the party’s spokesperson denied. In a message attributed to Imran on his party’s X account on Monday, he urged supporters to “come out and hold peaceful protests until a true democracy is restored”. The former cricket star was elected prime minister in 2018 but once in office, he fell out with the powerful military and was ousted in 2022 by parliament. His arrest in May 2023 sparked protests against the military nationwide, leading to a crackdown on the party. Imran denies any wrongdoing and has dismissed as politically motivated the dozens of cases against him,

A protester being detained by police in Lahore on Tuesday. – REUTERSPIC

were disqualified on Tuesday, the Election Commission of Pakistan said. Imran’s party emerged as the single biggest in the election last year, and it says that vote rigging robbed it of more seats. Other parties joined forces to form a government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who denies coming to power through electoral fraud. – Reuters

ranging from terrorism to disclosure of official secrets. He was convicted in January in a corruption case, but was acquitted of other charges or received suspended sentences. Hundreds of Imran’s party members including several parliamentarians were convicted late last month on charges related to the 2023 protests against his arrest. By law, nine of the parliamentarians