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No. 8885 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) ‘No’ to old Black Hawks Citing past mistake of buying second-hand fighter jets that had to be retired due to high accident rate, King tells Defence Ministry to scrap proposed procurement of 30-year-old combat helicopters. Report on h page 2 AUG 17, 2025 | RM1.00 PER COPY | www.thesun.my

DEFENCE DRILL ... Royal Malaysian Navy offshore patrol vessel KD Kedah and frigate KD Lekiu are among 10 warships from Asean countries berthed at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal in Penang to take part in a series of maritime exercises under Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship. – MASRY CHE ANI/THESUN

INSIDE

NUTP lauds reminder by education minister on smoking, vaping ban in schools.

Fire and Rescue Dept records over 32,000 special rescue operations.

Septuagenarian ex-journalist on 11th solo pan-peninsula patriotic mission on bicycle.

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NATIONAL 2 theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

Bangladesh seeks M’sia’s help to address Rohingya crisis KUALA LUMPUR: Bangladesh is seeking Malaysia’s influence, particularly in its role as Asean chair, to rally international efforts to address the prolonged Rohingya refugee crisis in the country. Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s government Prof Dr Muhammad Yunus said Malaysia’s experience in hosting Rohingya refugees, coupled with its leadership position in Asean, places it in a unique position to push for a comprehensive regional solution. “We are hoping Malaysia would put its influence in the whole negotiation to make sure that we can overcome this problem.” Yunus said the refugee crisis has deepened amid ongoing fighting in Myanmar’s Rakhine State between the Arakan Army and government forces, forcing fresh waves of Rohingyas to flee across the border into Bangladesh. “In the last 18 months alone, 150,000 new Rohingyas have arrived, in addition to the 1.2 million already in Bangladesh. “It becomes more and more acute. And worse still, the US cut off all funds to maintain them.” He said three international conferences on the crisis would be convened in the coming months to seek a sustainable solution, Bernama reported. The protracted humanitarian crisis continues to affect not only Bangladesh but also several Asean member states, including Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia. Malaysia, although not a signatory to the 1951 United Nations Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol, continues to temporarily host nearly 150,000 Rohingya refugees. The King also expressed pride in the achievements of the elite regiment since its establishment in 1965. –Bernama MERSING: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim has reminded military personnel to wear honorary berets and badges properly, stressing that they should not be worn arbitrarily at any event. Sultan Ibrahim added that they should not be treated merely as decorations or fashion statements. “Every beret and badge worn reflects the skills and qualifications of the individual, and should not be used merely for ‘showing off’. For example, I have completed Special Forces and parachute training at Fort Bragg, the United States, which qualifies me to wear the badge on my uniform,” said His Majesty. “However, if a badge is awarded on an honorary basis, it should only be worn during the relevant event and not on a daily basis. “So, to those who are not qualified to wear them, you know what needs to be done,” said the King at the 60th Anniversary Parade of Rejimen Gerak Khas at Kem Iskandar. Sultan Ibrahim, who is also Colonel Commandant of Gerup Gerak Khas, reminded all personnel to uphold discipline and dedication, preserve the dignity of the regiment and embody its motto of being Cepat dan Cergas (fast and agile) so that they continue to be respected by allies and feared by adversaries. Royal advice on proper use of honorary berets, badges

The King and the Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail leaving after attending the parade at Kem Iskandar in Mersing yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Warning against buying aged military assets

textile traders trying to sell drones.” The Royal Malaysian Air Force had acquired 80 units of the A-4 Skyhawk, developed by McDonnell-Douglas (now Boeing), from the United States in 1982 at US$1 million each. His Majesty emphasised the need for transparency and cost-efficiency in all defence acquisitions, while calling out past purchases made at inflated prices. He cited the example of a rigid raiding craft bought for RM5 million, saying a better vessel could have been sourced for under RM2 million. “Do not waste money on items that don’t meet military needs. If you don’t know the market price, ask me.” The King also criticised the delay in completing Rejimen Gerak Khas’ combat diving pool and urged the government to prioritise operational readiness with appropriate and timely equipment upgrades. highest rate (40.2%), followed by Sarawak (39.9%) and Perlis (39.1%). As for hypercholesterolaemia, 33.3% of Malaysians suffer from it, with Perak accounting for the highest rate (41.3%), followed by Perlis (41.0%) and Sarawak (38.9%). To address the alarming rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, Reset Health, in collaboration with the Health Ministry and the National Cancer Society Malaysia, launched Roczen Universal Malaysia, a free digital health programme. The programme, launched yesterday by Dzulkefly at the Rail & River Event Space in Batu Caves, is a digital health platform designed to help individuals manage their weight and blood sugar levels. It is offered free of charge to all Malaysians for up to one year per person. Anyone can join via the Roczen Universal website as a self-directed participant and follow the health educational materials.

military personnel. Speaking at the 60th Anniversary Parade of Rejimen Gerak Khas at Kem Iskandar in Mersing yesterday, Sultan Ibrahim cited the country’s purchase of second-hand A-4 Skyhawk jets from the United States in the 1980s, which were eventually retired due to a high accident rate. “Don’t make the same mistake. Are we going to put our pilots in ‘flying coffins’? Think for yourselves.” The King urged Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin to cancel a proposed procurement of more than 30-year-old Black Hawk helicopters, warning that decisions based on the influence of agents or vested interests could endanger lives and waste public funds. “I believe this keeps happening because the ministry is full of agents or ex-generals turned salesmen, even “Obesity and diabetes are not just individual health concerns, they are a national challenge that requires a united effort,“ said Dzulkefly. The three areas with the highest rates of overweight people are Kuala Lumpur (40.6%), Putrajaya (35.5%) and Labuan (34.8%) while those with the lowest rates are Sarawak (29.7%), Kelantan (28.2%) and Perlis (27%). The three areas with the highest rates of obesity include Perlis (32.8%), Negeri Sembilan (28.9%) and Putrajaya (25.8%) while the three with the lowest rates are Sabah (19.5%), Selangor (19.1%) and Kuala Lumpur (18.2%). A total of 15.6% of Malaysians suffer from diabetes, with the highest rates being in Perak (21.7%), Pahang (21.5%) and Perlis (20.6%). Those suffering form hypertension total 29.2%, with Perak being the state with the

King cites purchase of second-hand A-4 Skyhawk jets from US in the 1980s, which were retired due to high accident rate

BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: His Majesty the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim has issued a stern warning to the Defence Ministry not to repeat past mistakes in procuring used military assets that may compromise the safety of

Obesity represents critical public health crisis overweight or obesity issues.

BY MAHADHIR MONIHULDIN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

GOMBAK: Malaysia is facing a critical public health crisis, with more than half of the adult population living with obesity or being overweight, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He said 32.6% of the population is overweight, while 21.8% suffers from obesity, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023. This places Malaysia among Southeast Asian countries with the highest prevalence of obesity among adults. The rise of childhood obesity is also a cause for concern as it is a significant risk factor for developing chronic diseases in adulthood. The NHMS 2023 reports that approximately one in three children aged between 13 and 17 are affected by

NATIONAL 3 theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

Sabah seen as benchmark for PH–BN unity formula

PETALING JAYA: The Higher Education Ministry has welcomed a proposal by Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman that school administrations found to have condoned bullying within their compounds should face stern action. This follows criticism over delayed action against the administration of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu Mustapha in Papar, Sabah, after the death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir on July 16, which is suspected to be linked to bullying. Higher Education Deputy Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said such measures would reflect the government’s commitment to tackling bullying. “I agree that we need to eradicate bullying cases, which means we must ensure that anyone involved, whether it is school management, students or other parties, faces action. They must be given a clear signal that we are serious about implementing interventions in bullying cases,” he told theSun in Parliament on Wednesday. He added that a lot of false information had circulated online following the incident, sparking various reactions, including allegations of VIP involvement in a cover-up. “What’s important is that we want justice to be served in Zara’s case and this will serve as an example for us to carry out interventions in other cases. I hope this becomes a lesson for all parties so that we can handle such cases properly and provide accurate information to the public to avoid all kinds of baseless speculation,” he said. During the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan, Syed Saddiq also urged action against school administrators whose negligence leads to injury or death of students. “If parents can face criminal charges for neglect at home that results in injury to their child, the same standard should apply to school authorities. The responsibility carried by parents should also be placed on school administrators so that bullying is taken seriously. In short, all forms of support for bullying must stop,” he said. On Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged the public not to speculate on Zara Qairina’s death and to allow the investigation to take its course. – by Ikhwan Zulkaflee Govt backs stern action on schools that allow bullying Training Completion Parade and Commissioning Ceremony yesterday. Ahmad Zahid was earlier reported as saying that negotiations on cooperation and seat distribution within the BN, PH and GRS alliance for the state election were nearly complete. – Bernama

Observers say failure to manage tensions in state polls may weaken federal coalition ahead of GE16

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

assembly. According to the state constitution, it does not matter which party it is, the one that commands majority support will be presented to the palace to be appointed as chief minister. “So for now, each party may have its own candidate, but in the end it comes down to the constitution. Whoever secures majority support will be the one put forward to the palace as the chief minister,” he told theSun in Parliament on Wednesday. Despite an agreement at the federal level, with PH chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and BN chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi both stating that PH and BN would form an electoral pact with GRS to avoid clashes across the 73 state seats, it is widely known that Sabah BN and GRS are not on good terms. Sabah BN, led by Datuk Bung Moktar Radin – who is also touted as its candidate for chief minister – is a known rival of GRS chief Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, who currently holds the post. It was reported that Bung is seeking for BN to contest 38 to 40 seats, with the remainder remains an ordinary member for too long,” he told theSun via WhatsApp. He suggested PKR consider giving Tengku Zafrul a key position, either leading Selangor PKR or helming the party’s economic or trade bureau. However, Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan questioned whether Tengku Zafrul could truly thrive in PKR. “If he couldn’t survive and grow in Umno, even when he was given everything on a silver platter, there’s no guarantee things will be different in PKR. PKR politics is no less brutal and like Umno it requires strong grassroots support,” he said.

PETALING JAYA: The decision by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz to officially join PKR has divided political analysts. Some view it as a strategic boost to the party’s economic credentials ahead of the 16th general election (GE16), while others question his staying power and grassroots appeal. Universiti Malaya political analyst Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub described Tengku Zafrul’s move as a timely opportunity for PKR to strengthen its economic profile. “His experience serving as a minister under three different administrations is a valuable asset that PKR should fully utilise. “It would be a waste if he PETALING JAYA: Although Pakatan Harapan (PH) has agreed with Barisan Nasional (BN) to avoid contesting against each other in the upcoming 17th Sabah state election, it has yet to reveal who it will back as the next chief minister. Sabah PKR chief Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said negotiations between PH and BN had been concluded, but talks with Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) – a coalition of eight Sabah based parties – were ongoing. He explained that the negotiations were aimed at preventing electoral clashes among “allied” coalitions – PH, BN and GRS – in the state election, with the current assembly set to dissolve automatically in November. Mustapha said whichever party secured the majority of seats in the election would be entitled to the chief minister’s post. “The question of who holds power will, of course, ultimately depend on who commands the majority of seats in the state

Mustapha said whichever party secures the majority of seats in the election would be entitled to the chief minister post. – BERNAMAPIC

“People are now viewing the Sabah electorate as a benchmark for this formula. After this, we will have state elections in Malacca, then Sarawak, followed by Johor and finally GE16. If we do not handle Sabah properly, it could create cracks within the unity government. “If those cracks widen, they could seriously dim our chances of winning a second term at the federal level,” he said. Mustapha said PKR would act as mediator to help reconcile differences among coalition partners at both state and federal levels. has been seen as part of Umno’s Cabinet quota.” Independent political analyst Khoo Kay Peng agreed, saying Tengku Zafrul’s move would not shake Umno’s foundations. “He’s more of a highly skilled individual contributor, not someone who commands tens of thousands of grassroots followers,” said Khoo. On Aug 1, Tengku Zafrul announced his PKR membership, revealing he had joined the party’s Ampang branch after leaving Umno in May. The move has fuelled speculation of a possible Ampang by-election this year to pave the way for him to contest as his term as senator ends later in 2025. – by Ikhwan Zulkaflee wanting to contest this time, three-cornered fights will certainly be unavoidable, possibly up to eight-cornered. That is up to them as that is the political landscape in Sabah. BN-PH has no overlapping seats,” he said. He was speaking after attending the 16th National Level Civil Defence Student Corps

allocated to PH. Meanwhile, opposition party Parti Warisan, led by former chief minister Datuk Seri Shafie Apdal, has confirmed its intention to contest all 73 state assembly seats. At present, GRS controls 41 seats, PH holds seven, Umno has nine, Warisan has 14, while other parties account for two seats. Mustapha added that the public is closely observing whether the PH-BN formula in Sabah will succeed as there is strong potential for it to serve as a model for other state elections leading up to the 16th general election (GE16). Azmi noted that Tengku Zafrul’s entry into Ampang raised unease within PKR as he was perceived as a parachute candidate rather than one who rose through the ranks. “He still lacks the aura or charisma to galvanise grassroots support. His entry into PKR mirrors his entry into Umno, where he had the backing of top leaders but was disconnected from the base.” From Umno’s perspective, Azmi said the party might even benefit from his departure. “Umno may now push to reclaim the Investment, Trade and Industry portfolio. “Even though it is ultimately the prime minister’s prerogative to appoint ministers, the position

Minister’s move to PKR draws mixed reactions

No Barisan-Pakatan seat clashes in state polls: Ahmad Zahid SHAH ALAM: Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said seat distribution between BN and Pakatan Harapan (PH) for the upcoming Sabah state election had been finalised with no overlaps. negotiations had been held between BN and Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) on seat distribution or cooperation, in order to respect PH. “What has been finalised is BN PH, and we respect PH-GRS. There are no direct negotiations between BN and GRS. So far, any discussions to avoid three cornered contests or seat overlaps have been conducted behind the scenes.

However, he anticipated that three-cornered contests would be unavoidable, given the likelihood of other and newly formed parties joining the fray.

“However, I feel that since there are too many new parties in Sabah

Ahmad Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, said no

NATIONAL 4 theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

NUTP welcomes reminder on smoking, vaping ban

Putra Heights households get RM860,000 aid SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has disbursed RM864,000 in the second phase of temporary rental assistance to 144 households affected by last year’s gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, Subang Jaya. State Housing and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Borhan Aman Shah said the payments, covering July to September, were credited on Aug 6 through the Selangor Housing and Property Board. He said recipient selection followed a data review conducted by the Petaling District Disaster Management Committee, victim data subcommittee and local community representatives. “The list was updated based on factors such as homes already repaired, former tenants who have relocated or those no longer needing assistance.” Borhan added that the aid aims to ease the burden on affected families for relocation or home repairs, and urged remaining eligible residents to claim their assistance at the Petaling District and Land Office. – Bernama RM240,000 for Perak residents affected by storm PASIR SALAK: The Perak government, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency, have channelled RM240,000 in “bantuan wang ihsan” (compassionate aid) to more than 200 recipients who were affected by a storm in Seberang Perak and Kampung Gajah in April. The Perak menteri besar’s special officer for the Kampung Gajah state constituency Khairul Azwan Harun said the assistance shows the concern of the state government in focusing on the welfare of residents, including matters related to natural disasters. “This aid is given in two phases. The first phase involves repairs to 21 affected houses, involving about RM170,000. For the second phase, we distributed different amounts to 190 recipients, depending on the severity of the damage,” he said at the Perak Tengah Bantuan Wang Ihsan ceremony on Friday. On April 13, more than 50 houses were damaged by heavy rain and strong winds at the Larut, Matang and Selama districts. He expressed hope that the second phase of the Kampung Gajah flood mitigation plan could be implemented immediately. – Bernama

Statement should not be viewed as threat, but effort to raise awareness: President

certain teachers smoke in schools, Aminuddin said such allegations are inaccurate and do not reflect the majority of educators in the country. “To say that teachers are smokers is not accurate. The numbers are not significant and the majority of our teachers are not smokers. Even if a small number do smoke, they do not do so openly in front of students.” The issue of smoking in schools came into the spotlight following the education minister’s statement in Parliament, in which she reiterated the firm stance of the government on maintaining smoke-free school environments under the existing law. In her written reply in Parliament on Aug 12, Fadhlina said: “Teachers found vaping or

Awang Fadhlina’s statement should not be viewed as a threat, but rather as an effort to highlight existing laws. “I believe what was said serves as a reminder to all parties not to smoke within school premises,” Aminuddin told theSun when contacted. “If she had not raised it in Parliament, perhaps many teachers would remain unaware of it. The regulation states that a person can be fined up to RM10,000 or even face imprisonment, but that does not mean the punishment would be (applied) to everyone. It is more of a warning to raise awareness.” He added that the union has no issues with the statement and hopes it would be taken positively by all teachers and school staff. Responding to claims that said

Abang Openg said the first cascading dam would be built across Sungai Gaat in the Kapit district in central Sarawak. He said the residents there had given their consent to the construction. Johari also said the dam would be based on a multi-layer design in which turbines could be built. He added that there are many rivers in the interior regions that would be good sites for dam construction. “The dams also encourage fish species to grow and control the movement of crocodiles.” smoking within school premises may face legal action such as fines of up to RM10,000 or imprisonment of up to two years, in accordance with the Smoking Products Control Act for Public Health 2024.” She was responding to a question raised by Padang Terap MP Nurul Amin Hamid, who asked about measures taken by the ministry to curb the culture of vaping among school students. Nurul Amin had also claimed some teachers vape in public. This led MCA Education Consultative Committee deputy chairperson Felicia Y.T. Wong to question the necessity of imposing steep fines and jail sentences on teachers found smoking or vaping. Wong said such severe penalties suggest these measures are the default response to the offences, unfairly targeting teachers who are insufficiently appreciated. “In the Dewan Rakyat in 2023, Education Deputy Minister Wong Kah Woh reported that 6,394 teachers went on early retirement, an increase from the previous year during which 5,306 left. “According to the Education Ministry in a parliamentary written reply on June 26 last year, the majority of teachers left early because they were uninterested in their roles,” Wong added. Several teachers polled by theSun expressed concern that the penalties are too severe, adding that imprisoning educators could create further complications. “About half of the male teachers at my school are smokers or vapers. If we were all sent to prison, the school would face a shortage and need many replacement teachers,” said a 29-year-old teacher from the Klang Valley, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: The National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) welcomes the recent reminder issued by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek regarding the ban on smoking and vaping in schools. NUTP said it serves as an important alert to all stakeholders, especially educators. Its president Aminuddin

Aminuddin said claims of teachers smoking in schools are inaccurate and do not reflect the majority of educators in the country. – BERNAMAPIC

Sarawak to construct four cascading dams by 2030

Ű BY JOSEPH PETER newsdesk@thesundaily.com

build two power plants in the Bintulu and Miri districts that would use a combination of liquified natural gas and hydrogen to produce electricity. “These two power plants could each produce 1.5 gigawatts of electricity.” He added that with the new dams, plus existing dams in Bakun, Baleh, Murum and Batang Ai, the state could generate beyond 10 gigawatts by 2030 for domestic use and export to regional countries. Earlier this year, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari

large amount of electricity via cascading dams. “We will start the first phase of construction and it will involve building four dams from now until 2030. “By 2030, the dams would produce another two gigawatts of electricity for Sarawak, which we would use to power development projects,” he said during a talk in Kuching on the new plans for electricity projects in Sarawak. Hazland said the rest of the dams would be built in later phases after 2030. He also said the state aims to

KUCHING: Sarawak will begin constructing cascading dams to produce electricity, four of which would be completed by 2030. Sarawak Energy and Environment Sustainability Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Hazland Abang Hipni said the four are out of 12 cascading dams planned for construction in the interior districts of Baram and Belaga. “We (state government) have already identified 12 rivers that have the potential to generate a

NATIONAL 5 theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

Fire Dept expecting increase in ‘unusual’ cases

JASIN: Police have arrested four men for allegedly rioting with a wooden stick and an industrial extension wire along Jalan Jasin-Bemban in Malacca on Friday. State police chief Datuk Dzulkhairi Mukhtar said in the 9am incident, the suspects, aged between 20 and 57, were among seven men believed to be involved, following an accident involving three vehicles. “Bemban police received a call from a man reporting an accident along the road. The caller also mentioned seeing a man wielding a wooden stick. “It is believed that the altercation involved seven men, as well as an accident with three vehicles.” He added that following the brawl, five suspects fled the scene in a vehicle with an unidentified registration number. Dzulkhairi said two suspects were arrested at the scene, while another two were detained later at the Jasin police headquarters. Initial checks revealed that a 20-year-old suspect had four previous criminal records. However, all suspects tested negative for drugs. “Further investigations are under way to track down the remaining three suspects. The case is being investigated under Section 148 of the Penal Code for rioting in a public place.” – Bernama Police probe brawl in online video BUTTERWORTH: Police are investigating an online video on a riot involving a group of individuals believed to have taken place here on Friday. North Seberang Perai District police chief ACP Anuar Abdul Rahman said this followed a report on the incident lodged by a local man at the Butterworth police station. “Investigations found that the incident occurred when the complainant tried to help a motorcyclist who was involved in a road accident. As the man was trying to help the motorcyclist, the latter suddenly got up and punched him (complainant) before some passers-by joined in the fight.” He said the case was being investigated under Section 147 of the Penal Code for rioting. Anuar urged those with information regarding the incident to contact Sgt Muhammad Adib Ikmal Sukri at 04-576 2222 (ext 2275) or any nearby police station to assist in the investigation. – Bernama Cops detain four over alleged rioting

minor, the department will still conduct an initial assessment. “If the location is within a reasonable distance, about 10 minutes from the nearest station, we will respond. However, if it is too far and not critical, the department would guide (a caller) on how the situation could be resolved. “Our approach has two aspects. Firstly, we assess whether it is worth deploying personnel. Secondly, we acknowledge that the public trusts the fire department’s ability to help resolve their problems. This trust is something we must respect.” He also said there may be a need for education on the proper use of emergency services, particularly in cases involving animals that do not pose an immediate threat. outraging the victim’s modesty. The incident occurred at a house in the Muallim district, Perak, at about 9am on July 9, 2022, when the victim was 19 years old. He subsequently appealed to the High Court, which acquitted and discharged him last year. The prosecution then brought the matter to the Court of Appeal. DPP Solehah Noratikah Ismail argued that the man’s act of entering the victim’s locked bedroom via a bathroom connected to the kitchen, while she was asleep, demonstrated malicious intent. – Bernama

was closed to the barrier, while the right door could be opened as usual. In their panic, they could not think logically.” He also shared other unusual cases, such as emergency calls triggered by green flies mistaken for wasps or drones stuck in trees but reported as if a person were trapped. “We have also received calls to catch catfish that escaped into drains or to deal with fireflies entering a house after a tree branch broke through a window. “Many people no longer keep tools such as saws, machetes or ladders at home. So when (certain) situations occur, they turn to us because they believe the fire department can solve the problem.” Nor Hisham added that while some situations may appear

More than 32,000 special operations conducted as of July

PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal reinstated an eight-month prison sentence on a 52-year-old man for outraging the modesty of his teenage stepdaughter, overturning the High Court’s earlier decision to acquit him. A three-person bench led by Justice Datuk Azman Abdullah allowed the prosecution’s appeal, setting aside the High Court’s acquittal and restoring the conviction and sentence imposed by the Magistrate’s Court in November 2023. Delivering the court’s unanimous decision on Friday, Azman said the High Court had Transport Department (RTD) has seized 270 luxury vehicles nationwide for not having valid road tax and insurance under Ops Luxury, carried out since July 1. Its director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli said the operation is being carried out continuously across all states to take action against luxury vehicles being driven without a valid motor vehicle licence or insurance. “This operation is a measure against luxury vehicles that are being driven without paying road tax or without insurance coverage. The vehicles will be detained and seized until the owners settle all outstanding road tax, insurance and summonses before they are released,” he said at a press conference at RTD Taman Daya. Also present were RTD senior director (Enforcement) Muhammad Kifli Ma Hassan and Johor RTD director PUTRAJAYA: The Fire and Rescue Department is anticipating a rise in special rescue operations this year, involving not only animals and poisonous insects, but also unusual requests. Its director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad said as of last month, the department responded to more than 32,000 special rescue cases for 2025, compared with 23,999 cases recorded throughout 2024. “Among the cases we handle are catching snakes, lizards, bees and wasps, as well as rescuing cats stuck on roofs or trees. We also receive non-life-threatening

calls such as retrieving keys that have fallen into drains or helping when a neighbour’s chicken refuses to come out from under a car,” he told Bernama. He said while some cases may appear trivial or even amusing, the department always assesses them from the standpoint of safety and the ability of a caller to resolve the situation on their own. “For example, we once received a call from someone on the Penang Bridge claiming they could not get out because they were ‘trapped’ in their car. “When our team arrived, we discovered that only the left door

Court reinstates sentence in outraging modesty case erred in acquitting and discharging the man, who works as a security guard. said, sitting with Justices Datuk Azmi Ariffin and Datuk Hayatul Akmal Abdul Aziz.

He also said the man’s defence that he entered the room to retrieve dirty clothes was unreasonable, as he entered through the bathroom door without knocking on the door, because the victim’s room door was locked. He added that the victim’s testimony was not a fabrication intended to incriminate the respondent. The Magistrates’ Court earlier found the man guilty of using criminal force with the intention of

He said the High Court judge did not assess the victim’s testimony thoroughly and ignored her spontaneous response following the incident, which included kicking the respondent (the man), calling for her younger brother, her aunt and her mother and lodging a police report. “We find that there is overwhelming evidence showing the victim to be a credible witness and her testimony is consistent with the police report,” Azman

270 luxury vehicles seized by RTD since July JOHOR BAHRU: The Road

Aedy (centre) with one of the luxury vehicles seized for not having valid road tax. – BERNAMAPIC

“Ops Luxury will be expanded nationwide, including to Perlis, Sabah and Sarawak. This is not a one-off action. “We do not want luxury vehicles on the road without valid road tax and insurance.” – Bernama

tax of RM29,000 per year. He added that some of the vehicles had not had their road tax renewed for more than a year, with one case in Kuala Lumpur involving a lapse of up to three years, in which the owner claimed to have “forgotten” to renew it.

Azmil Zainal Adnan. Aedy said the seized vehicles included a Ferrari in Johor Bahru, which was without road tax and insurance, a Lamborghini Huracán with an annual road tax of RM12,000 and a Rolls-Royce in Kuala Lumpur with unpaid road

NATIONAL 6 theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

Septuagenarian on Merdeka mission

Sand sculpture class highlight of art camp KUALA LUMPUR: A sand sculpture workshop, led by Malaysia’s only active sand sculptor Mohammad Ikhwan Ibrahim, was among the standout attractions at the Aswara International Art and Culture Camp (Asiac) held in Pulau Tioman from Aug 4 to 8. Fifteen participants comprising secondary school students and university undergraduates from Malaysia and abroad took on the challenge of crafting a sand sculpture depicting the legendary dragon head of Pulau Tioman, set against the scenic backdrop of Dataran Tekek beach. Mohammad Ikhwan, 35, who has over a decade of experience in sand sculpting, said the workshop was an excellent platform to introduce the craft, which remains relatively new in Malaysia. “Sand sculptures have the potential to become a unique beach tourism attraction for the country. It is not only a beautiful and captivating art form, but also environmentally friendly and distinctly Malaysian. “Sand sculpting offers more than just a fresh experience, it also fosters connections between participants from different cultural backgrounds. I hope programmes like this would continue to be organised in the future. Muhammad Zharfan Mohd Zamri, 22, from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan said physical strength was essential, as heavy loads of sand and water had to be carried repeatedly from the shoreline. “Patience is equally important. We worked under the scorching sun and sometimes had to rebuild when the sculpture collapsed. But all the hard work was worth it when the legendary Pulau Tioman dragon head was completed on the second day of the workshop,” he added. For Dyssie Melanny Donny, 21, from Universiti Malaysia Sabah, the knowledge and experience gained included learning the technique of mixing beach sand with seawater in the right proportions to ensure the structure was strong and stable. “I found that everyone had their own role, and teamwork was very important when building a large-sized sand sculpture,” she said. – Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Even at 75, Che Saad Nordin does not let age dim his spirit for cycling around Peninsular Malaysia as a way to ignite patriotic fervour in conjunction with the National Day celebrations. Che Saad, who is a former stringer for national news agency Bernama in Baling, Kedah, is now in Kulai, Johor after passing through Perak, Kelantan, Former journalist on solo pan-peninsula cycling expedition to spread patriotic spirit

Terengganu and Pahang since starting his solo cycling mission from Sanglang in Perlis on July 26. This year marks his 11th long distance ride since beginning the mission in 2015, undertaken both solo and in groups, averaging 70km to 80km a day on his trusty folding bicycle. He is expected to be in Malacca on Aug 31 to join the National Day celebrations before continuing his cycling mission to his next destination. When contacted by Bernama, Che Saad said cycling was his choice because it was the only means within his ability to deliver the message of patriotism. He also said it allows him to connect more closely with the community, as he

can interact directly with people at every stop along the way. Along his route, he stops at schools to meet students or at other locations, with the aim of distributing 1,000 Jalur Gemilang . “I want everyone who sees me cycling at this age while carrying the flag to remember the sacrifices of our national heroes, especially those who perished during the Emergency period from 1948 until Independence. “I still remember, as a teenager in Baling, passing through areas and locations where battles were fought against communist insurgents. I saw the bodies of fallen national heroes. That memory continues to fuel my spirit to this day. “Many rarely speak of their contributions anymore, so I hope that in this way, the message gets across,” he said. Recounting memorable experiences from his 11 years of cycling every August, Che Saad said he often receives a warm welcome from locals. “Some have accompanied me for several kilometres, while others have invited me into their homes for a drink and a short rest. Those are the moments that make me feel accepted and appreciated during my rides.” In sharing the secret to staying energetic in his golden years, Che Saad, a grandfather of nine, said he maintains a healthy diet by reducing sugar intake and cycles daily to keep fit, as he has practised for decades. “On every ride, I recite zikir (remembrance of God) to calm my heart and along the way, meeting old and new friends becomes a natural booster for me to keep going.” On how much longer he intends to continue his Merdeka rides, Che Saad said as long as his health allows, he would keep taking to the roads, carrying the Jalur Gemilang to every corner of the peninsula.

Che Saad makes it a point to tell schoolchildren he meets on his expedition about patriotism, while distributing Jalur Gemilang . – PIC FROM CHE SAAD NORDIN FACEBOOK PAGE

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theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

WORLD 7

Pakistan floods wreak havoc, at least 320 killed

Cuba taps Vietnam rice expertise

LOS PALACIOS: Outside Havana, a firm belonging to a Vietnamese company is harvesting rice, directly farming Cuban land to help address acute food shortages. The Cuban government has granted Agri VAM, a subsidiary of Vietnam’s Fujinuco Group, 1,000ha of arable land in Los Palacios, 118km west of the capital. Vietnam has advised Cuba on rice cultivation in the past but this is the first time a private firm has done the farming itself. The government approved the move after a 52% plunge in overall agricultural production between 2018 and 2023, according to data from the Centre for the Study of the Cuban Economy at the University of Havana. The rice numbers are even worse. Total rice production dropped from 300,000 tonnes in 2018 to 55,000 tonnes in 2021. Rice is a staple of the local diet, with Cubans consuming 60kg of rice per person per year. During a media visit to its rice fields in May, an Agri VAM representative said the harvest yield to date is seven tonnes per hectare, “but we want more”. “The weather and the temperature are very good for agriculture,” but Cuban growers lack necessary farming products such as fertilisers, the Agri VAM representative told reporters. – AFP Diplomat seen after report of questioning BEIJING: A Chinese diplomat, who Reuters reported had been taken for questioning, appeared at a diplomatic event here on Friday evening. Sun Haiyan, a senior Chinese diplomat and former ambassador to Singapore, appeared as a guest at an event organised by India’s embassy in Beijing. In response to a question from Reuters at the event, Sun did not comment directly on whether authorities had detained or questioned her, saying: “Well, I’m here.” She called the Reuters report “irresponsible”. Reuters had reported on Friday that Sun had been taken for questioning by authorities earlier this month, citing three people with knowledge of the matter, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. Reuters could not determine the matters the questioning related to. Chinese authorities questioned Sun around the same time they questioned Liu Jianchao, widely seen as a potential foreign minister candidate, two of the three sources told Reuters.

PESHAWAR: Rescuers were struggling to retrieve bodies from debris after flash floods triggered by heavy monsoon rains across northern Pakistan killed at least 320 people. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority said 307 deaths were reported in the mountainous Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Most were killed in flash floods and collapsed houses, with the dead including 15 women and 13 children. At least 23 others were injured. The provincial rescue agency said yesterday about 2,000 rescue workers were engaged in recovering bodies from the debris and carrying out relief operations in nine affected districts where rain was still hampering efforts. “Heavy rainfall, landslides in several areas and washed-out roads are causing significant challenges in delivering aid, particularly in transporting heavy machinery and ambulances,” said Bilal Ahmed Faizi, spokesman for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa rescue agency. “Due to road closures in most areas, rescue workers are Rescuers delayed by landslides, damaged roads

Mingora city residents gather near a damaged vehicle and debris after a flash flood. – AFPPIC

South Asia about three-quarters of its annual rainfall. Landslides and flash floods are common during the season, which begins in June and eases by the end of September. Syed Muhammad Tayyab Shah, a representative of the national disaster agency, said this year’s monsoon came earlier than usual and was expected to end later. He said over the next 15 days, the intensity of the monsoon may make matters worse. – AFP

rain alert for Pakistan’s northwest, urging people to take “precautionary measures”. Nine more people were killed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, while five died in the northern Gilgit-Baltistan region, said the national disaster authority. Another five people, including two pilots, were killed when a local government helicopter crashed due to bad weather on Friday. The monsoon season brings

travelling on foot to conduct operations in remote regions. “They are trying to evacuate survivors, but very few people are relocating due to the deaths of their relatives or loved ones being trapped in the debris.” The provincial government has declared the severely affected mountainous districts of Buner, Bajaur, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra and Battagram as disaster zones. The Meteorological Department has issued a heavy

Thai-Cambodia talks inch forward

to Cambodia Col Nazlee Abdul Rahim concluded their two-day mission to check security along the border areas. Other Asean states are part of the team that inspected checkpoints in Banteay Meanchey and Preah Vihear provinces. Cambodia and Thailand are striving to maintain and bolster the ceasefire deal that was achieved on July 28 in Malaysia, after a border dispute led to five days of conflict in northern Cambodia. Asean chair Malaysia, United States and China (as observers) managed to bring the situation under control. Cambodia and Thailand agreed to discuss issues based on a 13-point agreement reached during the extraordinary general border committee meeting held on Aug 7 in Kuala Lumpur with the three countries present.

PHNOM PENH: Security along the Thai-Cambodia border remains stable, as both parties continue talks to resolve differences. The National Defence Ministry of Cambodia told a news briefing here yesterday that the situation in Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey and Banteay Meanchey provinces was normal. Ministry spokesperson Lt-Gen Maly Socheata said the Regional Boundary Commission meeting held in Thailand’s Trat province on Friday had made some progress, but gave no details, Bernama reported. “The meeting hopes to achieve more positive results that allow both sides to push for a ceasefire that brings peace, stability and normalcy,” Maly said. She said the Asean Interim Observers Team, led by Defence Attache

DOUBLE JOY ... Hong Kong’s first locally born giant pandas Jia Jia and De De celebrating their first birthday at Ocean Park on Friday. – REUTERSPIC

theSun on Sunday AUG 17, 2025

WORLD 8

Davos founder, wife cleared of misconduct

Putin, Trump end summit without Ukraine deal ANCHORAGE: Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump made no breakthrough on Ukraine at their summit on Friday, pointing to areas of agreement and rekindling a friendship but offering no news on a ceasefire. After an abrupt ending to three hours of talks with aides, Putin and Trump offered warm words but took no questions from reporters. “We’re not there yet, but we’ve made progress. There’s no deal until there’s a deal,” Trump said. He called the meeting “extremely productive” with “many points” agreed, although he did not offer specifics. “There are just a very few that are left, some are not that significant, one is probably the most significant,” Trump said. Putin also spoke in general terms of cooperation in a joint press appearance. “We hope that the understanding we have reached will ... paves the way for peace in Ukraine,” Putin said. As Trump mused about a second meeting, Putin smiled and said in English: “Next time in Moscow.” The former KGB agent quickly tried to flatter Trump. Putin told Trump he agreed with him that the Ukraine war would not have happened if Trump were president instead of Joe Biden. – AFP Most Americans think alcohol bad for health WASHINGTON: A narrow majority of Americans now believe even moderate consumption of alcohol negatively affects health. A Gallup survey found 54% of Americans reported they drank alcohol either occasionally or regularly, down from at least 60% recorded between 1997 and 2023. Those who did say they drank alcohol reported it was in smaller amounts, with the average number of drinks consumed in the last week being 2.8, “the lowest figure Gallup has recorded since 1996”, the pollster said. Attitudes towards alcohol, which Gallup has been tracking since 2001, saw the most significant difference in the poll. The number of people who consider moderate consumption of alcohol – up to one or two drinks per day – to be bad for personal health rose to 53% this year. For comparison, the figure was 27% in the early 2000s. In January, then-US surgeon general Vivek Murthy called for alcohol to be sold with a cancer warning label. “Alcohol is a well-established, preventable cause of cancer, responsible for about 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer deaths annually in the United States,” he said. – AFP

‘No evidence of material wrongdoing’

The sources, who have knowledge of the matter but spoke on condition of anonymity, said no agreement had been reached. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office and Israel’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment. A US State Department spokesperson said: “We do not speak to private diplomatic conversations,” when asked about the plan. Netanyahu said earlier this month he intends to extend military control in Gaza, and this week repeated suggestions that Palestinians should leave the territory voluntarily. Arab and world leaders have rejected the idea of moving Gaza’s population. Palestinians say that would be like another “Nakba” (catastrophe) when hundreds of thousands fled or were forced out GENEVA: An investigation by the World Economic Forum’s board cleared on Friday the body’s founder Klaus Schwab and his wife of wrongdoing, after a probe into whistleblower complaints. “Following a thorough review of all facts, the board has concluded that ... there is no evidence of material wrongdoing by Klaus Schwab,” the board announced. In April, the Wall Street Journal reported that an anonymous letter sent to the institution’s board of directors accused Schwab and his wife Hilde of mixing their personal affairs with forum resources without proper oversight. A spokesperson for Schwab had immediately denied all these accusations, but the 87 year-old said he would step down as head of the WEF. The board of the WEF, best known for its annual summit for political and business elites in the Swiss ski resort of Davos, asked a law firm to carry out an independent probe. “Minor irregularities, stemming from blurred lines between personal contributions and forum operations, reflect deep commitment rather than intent of misconduct,” the statement said.

“The board has taken action to address all issues identified throughout the investigation, including strengthening the governance in general.” Also on Friday, the WEF said it will be replacing former Nestle CEO Peter Brabeck Letmathe as interim chairman of the board. He is being replaced by Larry Finck, co-founder of the investment fund Blackrock, and Andre Hoffmann, vice chairman of Roche pharmaceutical group. The letter alleged Schwab had asked junior employees to withdraw “thousands of dollars” from ATMs for him and used organisation funds to pay for massages. But the probe found nothing improper in his conduct. Schwab was born in Ravensburg, Germany, on March 30, 1938. He is married with two children. He was a professor of business management at the University of Geneva, where he taught until 2003, when in the early 1970s he launched the European Management Forum, the precursor to the current forum. He expanded it by inviting American business leaders, successfully building a huge network of the world’s

Schwab and his wife Hilde. – AFPPIC

economic and political elite, transforming the event into a high-level gathering dedicated to business relations and the exchange of ideas. The forum’s success has led to the satirical concept of “Davos Man”, the supposed avatar of a globalised elite of the stateless ultra-rich

committed to free trade and high-minded seminars on corporate social responsibility. The WEF has spurred theories alleging that it was seeking to establish a “new world order”. Elon Musk accused Schwab on X of wanting to “be the emperor of the Earth”. – AFP

Talks to resettle Palestinians in South Sudan NAIROBI: South Sudan and Israel are discussing a deal to resettle Palestinians from Gaza, three sources told Reuters – a plan quickly dismissed as unacceptable by Palestinian leaders. during the Arab-Israeli war of 1948. The sources said the prospect of resettling Palestinians in South Sudan was raised during meetings between Israeli officials and South Sudanese Foreign Minister Monday Semaya Kumba when he visited the country last month.

Their account appeared to contradict South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry which on Wednesday dismissed earlier reports on the plan as “baseless”. The ministry was not available to respond to the sources’ assertions on Friday. News of the discussions was first reported by the Associated Press on Tuesday, citing six sources. Wasel Abu Youssef, a member of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation, said its leadership and people “reject any plan or idea to displace any of our people to South Sudan or to any other place”. His statement echoed a statement from the office of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Thursday. Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel, who visited the

A peace activist attending a vigil in New York on Friday for Al Jazeera reporters killed in Gaza City. – REUTERSPIC

Netanyahu, who met Kumba last month, has said Israel is in touch with a few countries to find a destination for Palestinians who want to leave Gaza. He has consistently declined to provide further details. – Reuters

South Sudanese capital Juba this week, said those discussions had not focused on relocation. “The discussions were about foreign policy, multilateral organisations, the humanitarian crisis and about the war,” she said, referring to talks in Juba.