21/08/2025

Gombak Setia rep claims trial to charge of causing public fear Muhammad Hilman Idham accused of making statement on TikTok deemed likely to cause alarm and encourage others to commit offences against public tranquillity.

Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: lifestyle@thesundaily.com Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: advertise@thesundaily.com

THURSDAY AUG 21, 2025

SCAN ME

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

RM1

WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Technology and social media

TUESDAY Family and parenting

WEDNESDAY Fashion and beauty

THURSDAY Home and living

FRIDAY Travel and leisure

Mindful eating Mel Gibson’s trainer dispels weight loss myths – P22

SATURDAY Food and beverage

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

Report on — page 5

SCAN ME No. 8889 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

p 23 Aiming for zero rabies through education

p 24 Jatiwangi ‘bodybuilders’ pump clay instead of iron

p 25 Latest tech for smarter, more comfortable living

All accused plead not guilty at Kota Kinabalu Children’s Court, which sets Sept 25 for mention of their case and allows bail of RM5,000 with one surety for each of the students. 5 teens charged with verbally abusing Zara Report on — page 3

MERDEKA MURAL ... A wall art in Jalan Raja Chulan, Kuala Lumpur, paints a picture of racial harmony and unity as Malaysia gets ready to celebrate Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Report on — page 2

Report on — page 4

These basic resources must be treated as strategic assets to anchor high-value technology investments: PM Water, energy pull factors for M’sia as data centre and tech hub

‘Overly punitive action on flag gaffes could backfire’

Experts say although misusing Jalur Gemilang an offence, heavy handed enforcement could discourage citizens from flying flag.

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

2

Water, energy resources anchor M’sia as tech hub: PM

PKR sec-gen to be consulted on objection letter PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he would consult PKR secretary general Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh on Umno’s letter objecting to the admission of its former members into other parties within the unity government. “We received the letter some time ago. I will check with the secretary-general,“ he said after attending the Finance Ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday. On Aug 17, PKR information chief Datuk Fahmi Fadzil confirmed receipt of the letter, adding that the party’s central leadership council was expected to deliberate on it by the end of the month. The objection came in the wake of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz confirming his membership in PKR last week after leaving Umno. Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki was reported as saying that the letter was a symbolic protest, warning that such moves could strain ties within the fragile ruling coalition. The controversy erupted after Tengku Zafrul, who quit Umno in May and relinquished his posts as Kota Raja division chief and supreme council member, announced his membership in PKR’s Ampang division. His application was formally accepted by the PKR leadership last month. Several Umno leaders had previously urged PKR not to admit the former finance minister, arguing that it would undermine trust among coalition partners. Earlier, in his address at the assembly, Anwar defended the appointment of Datuk M. Kumar as Bukit Aman Criminal Investigation Department director, stressing that it is not a racial issue but one based on merit and the individual’s ability to shoulder responsibility. “There were even criticisms in Parliament, with some opposition MPs questioning how nearly 90% of personnel in the police’s criminal division are Malays. “Their chief is Kumar, an Indian. Whoever is capable should be given the space. The IGP is Malay, the deputy IGP is Malay and most of the directors are Malay. To me, this is not an issue.” Call to sustain Moro peace process MANILA: Malaysia has expressed hope for sustained coordination between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) after the group suspended the decommissioning of its final batch of combatants, Philippine News Agency reported. “I hope all parties will continue to work together. This is something that the parties will have to resolve themselves. “We want all parties to come together – that’s the most important part,” said Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino in Taguig City on Tuesday. He was commenting about the latest development in the Bangsamoro peace process. In a memorandum dated Aug 16, MILF chairman Alhadj Murad Ebrahim instructed all commanders and members not to join any decommissioning or normalisation activities of the government“without prior written approval” from the MILF. The directive followed a July 19 resolution by the MILF Central Committee, which temporarily suspended the implementation of the fourth and final phase of the decommissioning process. Under the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro peace process, the MILF is to undergo a phased decommissioning. – Bernama Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o ‘Malaysia has consistently guaranteed access to basic utilities, with targeted assistance such as free supply for low-income households’

Anwar added that Langat 2 is not only a technical milestone but also a commitment to ensuring reliable and affordable supply for households and industries. Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said Malaysia’s water supply coverage reached 97% last year, with a “comfortable” reserve margin of 14.9% in Peninsular Malaysia and Labuan. He said the sector still faces challenges. He added that there is a need to improve access to treated water, boost reserve margins in some states, tackle problems of non revenue water (NRW), ageing infrastructure and the financial unsustainability of some operators. Fadillah said through the Water Sector Transformation Roadmap 2040, measures under the 13MP would be prioritised, including the Critical Pipe Replacement Programme, holistic NRW solutions and rebates for operators who meet reduction targets. He said these efforts are expected to lower NRW levels to 28.8% by 2030. “I believe these initiatives will significantly strengthen water services, helping consumers face future challenges while securing long term needs.” The Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant, built by Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad for Air Selangor, is Malaysia’s second-largest water facility. With a capacity of 1,130 million litres per day, it now supplies treated water to Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya, directly benefiting about 791,000 consumer accounts.

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

“This project showcases our engineering and technical expertise in mastering modern technology. “Although certain components were imported, the management and maintenance have been successfully handled by Malaysians themselves. This is a proud achievement.” Anwar acknowledged Malaysia’s “water paradox” – there are floods several times a year yet shortages in some areas. “In a country where water overflows and floods two or three times annually, it is unthinkable that we still suffer from shortages. This reflects weaknesses in management.” He cited Jordan, which conserves and distributes water effectively despite minimal rainfall, and urged Malaysians to adopt both modern technology and sustainable practices, including reducing wastage in daily routines such as ablution. He stressed that water management would be prioritised under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) as part of strengthening economic resilience. “Malaysia cannot bring about meaningful change without economic strength. That strength depends on resilience, energy sufficiency and the capacity of domestic industries to drive growth.”

HULU LANGAT: Malaysia’s pull as a hub for data centres, artificial intelligence and semiconductor industries is largely due to its water and energy resources, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Speaking at the launch of the Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant, he said these resources must be treated as strategic assets not only for public use but also to anchor high-value technology investments. “Ask investors and they will tell you that water and energy are top priorities, followed by our professional workforce. “But for us, it’s not just about availability. They must also remain affordable so that the people are not burdened.” Anwar said Malaysia has consistently guaranteed access to basic utilities, including affordable water, with targeted assistance such as free supply for low-income households. “This is an achievement we can be proud of.” He added that the RM4.2 billion Langat 2 project, largely built by local firms and engineers despite requiring some imported equipment, demonstrates Malaysia’s capacity to manage advanced water infrastructure.

Anwar, accompanied by Fadillah, at the opening of the Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant in Hulu Langat yesterday. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

3

Outreach programme ramps up ID access, cuts delays: Home minister

PUTRAJAYA: The Home Ministry is intensifying efforts to improve access to identification documents through the National Registration Department’s Menyemai Kasih Rakyat (Mekar) outreach programme. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said Mekar, an initiative aimed at ensuring all eligible citizens have access to identification documents, is designed to ‘go to the people’rather than waiting for them to come to the department counters. “As of July 31, a total of 1,633 Mekar programmes had been conducted, resulting in 24,863 applications being processed. We also provide advisory services, which have already benefited more than 20,000 individuals,” he told reporters after the ministry’s monthly assembly yesterday. One of the programmes, Mekar Didik was launched in Nov 2024 to help schoolchildren without birth certificates or identity documents. Between then and June this year, Mekar Didik had assisted 12,101 students, achieving the target set with the Education Ministry. Saifuddin said the ministry has also advanced its Reformasi Kerenah

Families who once waited months can now receive documents in a fraction of the time,” he said. He added that the department is also streamlining MyKad services to reduce waiting times and expand its role as a national digital identity platform. Children applying for MyKad at age 12 can now obtain their card within 30 minutes, while replacements for lost or damaged cards can be issued on the same day. “MyKad is central to our digital identity framework, supporting biometric verification, healthcare services, driving licence data and inter agency data sharing with the police, Inland Revenue Board, Road Transport Department and the Health Ministry,” he said, adding that MyKad also integrates with MySejahtera, e-Tanah and MyGovUC. Most recently, the RM100 Sara one-off cash assistance was disbursed through MyKad to recipients aged 18 and above.

The National Registration Department’s Mekar outreach programme is aimed at ensuring all eligible citizens have access to identification documents. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

Saifuddin also said the department is currently finalising a new version of MyKad with stronger security features and a more durable design. – By FAIZ RUZMAN More daily essentials spared from tax under SST expansion PETALING JAYA: Malaysians will see more essentials spared from tax under the Sales and Services Tax (SST) soon with the number of exempted or zero-rated goods tripling compared with those under the abolished Goods and Services Tax (GST). In a written reply to the Dewan Rakyat, the Finance Ministry said 1,826 goods will be exempted or zero-rated under SST following a rate review and scope expansion effective last month, marking a sharp rise from the 607 goods that enjoyed zero-rated status under GST before it was scrapped in 2018. The exemptions cover a wide range of daily necessities, including raw and unprocessed foods such as chicken, beef, mutton, fish, vegetables, local fruits and rice as well as processed items such as flour, sugar, salt, bread, milk and palm cooking oil. Medicines, medical devices and reading materials are also exempt alongside animal feed, construction materials, fertilisers, pesticides and agricultural and livestock machinery. The reply was in response to a question from Yuneswaran Ramaraj (PH–Segamat) on the number of items exempted under SST compared with GST. On the services side, the government clarified that SST applies to 70% of services in the economy, slightly lower than the 76% under GST. Key basic services remain exempt from service tax, including land and sea transport such as school buses, express buses, LRT, trains and ferries; air transport for rural areas in Sabah and Sarawak; prepaid telecommunication services; food delivery services; residential rentals and maintenance; water supply; and electricity for households consuming below 600kWh. The Finance Ministry stressed that the SST expansion is being carried out in a careful, targeted and progressive manner to cushion the impact on the cost of living while promoting sustainable economic growth. “The larger number of exempted goods and the lower percentage of taxable services under SST compared with GST reflect the government’s commitment to the welfare of the people while ensuring stronger fiscal sustainability under the Madani economic framework.” Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

copies of overseas birth certificates, or Form H, which can be completed in seven days instead of 52. “These two areas were chosen because the impact is immediate.

Birokrasi initiative, or the bureaucratic red-tape reforms, to cut red tape in public services. Under the reforms, procedures such as late birth registrations for

children in government health facilities will be processed within 30 days, compared with three months previously. Another is the application process for certified under five born

Five teens face charges of verbal abuse towards Zara

first accused while the other four were represented by lawyers Azhier Farhan Arisin, Abdul Fikry Jaafar, Farah Nazriah Chun Lee, Fareez Salleh and Sylyester Kuan. Previously, the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) in a statement said it had examined the investigation papers into the student’s death, which were referred by the police and decided to charge several suspects based on available evidence. The AGC also said an inquest still needs to be conducted to determine the actual cause of death. On Aug 12, the AGC decided on the inquest to ascertain the cause and circumstances behind the death of Zara Qairina after reviewing the investigation report submitted by the police. The Coroner’s Court, on Monday, set Sept 3 for the inquest. Zara Qairina died at Queen Elizabeth I Hospital on July 17 after she was found unconscious in a drain near the school hostel on the morning of July 16. – Bernama vice division infiltrated online networks and followed payments through mule accounts. “In both cases, technology is being weaponised. The same investigative techniques used in adult exploitation cases can help uncover how children are being manipulated.” On Monday, Saifuddin told the Dewan Rakyat that the 12-year-old had quit school after her earnings from selling explicit images online surpassed her parents’ combined income. He also linked the case to a similar modus operandi in swinger activities that had been uncovered previously. “In the swinger cases, the modus operandi was almost the same, where a fee was charged before participation. The difference is that one used dating websites, while the other was through WhatsApp. Both required lengthy surveillance processes,“ he added.

o Accused pleaded not guilty and court allowed RM5,000 bail each with one surety: DPP

KOTA KINABALU: Five teenage girls were charged at the Children’s Court yesterday with using abusive words against Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir last month. The charges against the five were read before Sessions Judge Elsie Primus in closed proceedings. According to the charge sheet, the five, acting with common intention, allegedly uttered abusive words directed at Zara Qairina, which were heard by the victim and could have caused her distress. The offence was allegedly committed at Block A-3-6 of the Rabiatul Adawiyah dormitory at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu Mustapha Limauan W.D.T 15, Papar, between 10pm PUTRAJAYA: Investigations into Geng Budak Sekolah have widened, with police focusing on individuals believed to be orchestrating the minors’ involvement in online child exploitation. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the case involving a 12 year-old girl who created and managed a website to sell explicit photographs had exposed disturbing patterns of abuse. “This is not a normal case. It involves children running platforms that require money transfers and digital coordination. Police have to approach it carefully, working with psychologists and child specialists to avoid further harm to the victims.” He said police have yet to establish the facts and stressed that the investigation must Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

and 11pm on July 15. The charge was framed under Section 507C(1) of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34, which carries a maximum jail term of one year, or a fine or both upon conviction. DPP Nor Azizah Mohamad told the media outside the court after proceedings that all the students had pleaded not guilty to the charges. “The court set Sept 25 for mention of the case and allowed bail of RM5,000 with one surety for each of the teenagers,” said Nor Azizah, who was assisted by DPPs Nik Haslinie Hashim and Deepa Nair Thevaharan. Lawyer Datuk Ram Singh represented the be handled with utmost care and in strict compliance with procedures as it involves minors. “There are specific protocols for handling cases involving children, such as photographs cannot be shown, names cannot be disclosed and so forth. The police are therefore carrying out their duties through the Criminal Investigation Department’s Women and Child Investigation Division (D11),“ he told reporters after the Home Ministry’s monthly assembly. The group, with over 700 members, is believed to have operated through a WhatsApp platform in which images were circulated and payments arranged. Saifuddin said enforcement teams are tracing the data trail and financial records to identify those profiting from the activities. He drew comparisons with investigations into ‘swinger’ groups, in which the D7 anti

Police widen probe into child exploitation ring

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

4

Ministry moves to draw more high-spending tourists KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will continue to focus its advertising and promotional efforts on attracting high-value tourists while maintaining initiatives for volume tourism under the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) campaign, the Dewan Rakyat was told. Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said claims that his ministry was solely focusing on potential tourists from China were inaccurate, stressing that efforts to attract international visitors also involved various other countries. 807,664 from 638,109. “We are not only focused on promoting the country’s tourism to China; we also aim to attract high-end and high-spending tourists,” he said when winding up the debate on the motion on the 13th Malaysia Plan on Tuesday. Tiong said all advertising and promotional efforts for VM2026 had been strategically planned and implemented across major markets, despite a lack of allocation. promoting Muslim-friendly tourism and hospitality, highlighting Quran based tourism with main attractions such as the Nasyrul Quran Complex in Putrajaya and Yayasan Restu in Shah Alam, Selangor.

“ITC has also carried out a tourism promotion mission to four major countries, namely China, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and Vietnam as part of efforts to boost Muslim tourist arrivals, particularly ahead of VM2026,” he said. Meanwhile, Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, while winding up the motion for her ministry, said the government encouraged pondok institutions catering to the elderly to register as Senior Citizens Activity Centres to enable them to receive appropriate government support and assistance. She said although the pondok education system provided lifelong learning opportunities for the elderly, the government could only channel

He urged all parties, including MPs, to support efforts to promote the country’s tourism and refrain from politicising or sensationalising the initiative. Tiong said the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry continues to focus on all tourism segments, including Muslim-friendly tourism, which offered significant potential. He said the ministry, through the Islamic Tourism Centre (ITC), is committed to developing and

He added that a comparison of foreign tourist arrivals between January and July 2024 and 2025 for 10 countries showed a significant increase. “Tourist arrivals from Singapore in 2025 rose by 25.5% to 10,288,256, compared with 8,397,886 in 2024; Indonesia increased by 8.2% to 2,197,288 from 2,031,111; China grew by 35.6% to 2,178,857 from 1,607,413; and India recorded a 26.6% rise to

The BBST Walk Street Mural Art is a tourist attraction in Sepang. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Pahang to develop RM75b hybrid shipyard complex KUALA LUMPUR: The Pahang government, through the Pahang State Secretary Incorporated, in collaboration with Teroka Majubina Holdings Bhd, signed a lease agreement for the development of the Tanjung Agas Hybrid Shipyard Complex in Pekan, Pahang, with a total investment value of RM75 billion. Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Sri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail said this high-impact project covers an area of 408.92ha. “The project will commence eight months from now, and the complex will be developed in phases, comprising three main components. “The first component is the Green Vessel Recycling, which will serve as a green technology ship recycling centre. “The second component is the shipbuilding facility, providing ship construction and maintenance services. “The third is the tank farm oil platform, offering oil and gas storage facilities,” he said after the signing ceremony held here on Tuesday. Wan Rosdy said the mega development is expected to create up to 25,000 job opportunities for Malaysians, especially the people of Pahang. This would deliver significant benefits to the state and national economies, he added. “With the establishment of the hybrid shipyard complex, Pahang will emerge as a regional maritime hub, a green technology ship recycling centre and a competitive oil and gas hub in the region”. The memorandum of agreement signing ceremony for the lease was also witnessed by the Tengku Arif Bendahara of Pahang Tengku Muhammad Iskandar Ri’ayatuddin Shah. – Bernama “We cannot provide any assistance if they are not registered with us,” she said, addressing an interjection by Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang). – Bernama undertake and can apply for assistance from the ministry.

assistance if an institution was officially registered as a Senior Citizens Activity Centre. “We have advised operators of the pondok schools to establish activity centres. Once registered, they will be responsible for any activities they

‘Heavy-handed action could dampen patriotic spirit’

marriage increased from 28.2 years in 2016 to 29.9 in 2023 for men, and from 28.2 years to 30.6 years for women. “Financial factors, lack of suitable partners and prioritising career development are among the main reasons marriages are being delayed. As the age of marriage rises, the reproductive window shortens, which directly affects future birth rates. “Therefore, this important input should be taken into account when formulating state policies, interventions and action plans that inclusively address the needs of the population,” she added. – Bernama not intent. “This risks discouraging people from flying the flag altogether. In some countries, overly punitive flag laws have reduced civic participation instead of strengthening national pride,” she said. She added that while laws draw boundaries, genuine patriotism is best fostered through education and awareness. She said campaigns in schools, communities and on social media are more effective in building respect than fear of fines. “Strict enforcement risks creating hesitation, while education turns the Jalur Gemilang into a living symbol of unity and pride,” she said, urging more cultural sensitivity in outreach campaigns. “Not all groups share the same historical narratives or have equal access to official guidelines. By recognising Malaysia’s diversity, we not only uphold the dignity of the flag but also strengthen national pride across all communities.”

unity and projects a positive image of Malaysia abroad, stressing that the flag should unite Malaysians, not divide them. Retired International Islamic University Malaysia law professor Dr Ainul Jaria Maidin explained that misuse or incorrect display of the flag is an offence under Malaysian law. She said the Emblems and Names (Prevention of Improper Use) Act 1963 (Act 414) makes it illegal to misuse or alter national emblems, including the Jalur Gemilang , with penalties of up to RM20,000 fine, three years’ jail or both. “For minor cases such as flying the flag upside down, local authorities often act under the Minor Offences Act 1955, issuing smaller fines before escalating to prosecution under Act 414,” she said. However, Ainul Jaria cautioned that the law does not distinguish between genuine mistakes and deliberate misuse, and prosecutors need only prove improper use,

o Experts say although misusing Jalur Gemilang goes against the law, strict enforcement could discourage citizens from flying flag instead of strengthening national pride

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

poverty, particularly those who live alone in rural areas without close family support,” she said when reading a speech by the board director-general in conjunction with the Kelantan-level World Population Day celebration at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan here on Tuesday. Haslinda said according to the Statistics Department’s 2024 data, Kelantan is estimated to have a population of 1.9 million and is now undergoing a demographic transition with major implications for the state’s future. She said one of the main indicators of this change is the state’s total Faculty of Language Studies and Human Development senior lecturer Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Nawi Ismail said flying the Jalur Gemilang upside down, whether intentional or accidental, is unacceptable, with such cases often rising during the Merdeka Month. “All Malaysians, regardless of race and religion, as well as foreigners living here, must respect and honour the flag. “This includes displaying it properly, replacing damaged flags and disposing of them respectfully,” he said. Mohd Nawi added that respect for the Jalur Gemilang reflects national

PETALING JAYA: From upside down flags to worn-out banners, Malaysians are finding themselves fined and reprimanded but critics warn that heavy-handed enforcement could kill the very spirit of patriotism it seeks to protect. Recent arrests and warnings over the improper display of the Jalur Gemilang have reignited debate on whether strict enforcement instils respect or instead deters citizens from flying the national flag. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan

Kelantan heading towards becoming ageing state KOTA BHARU: Kelantan is projected to become an ageing state in less than a decade. fertility rate, which has declined from 3.6 children in 2014 to 2.7 children in 2023.

“Although this figure is still above the population replacement level of 2.1 children, the trend clearly signals that Kelantan is heading towards becoming an ageing state. “Among the factors contributing to this decline are the tendency to marry late, rising cost of living, lifestyle changes and the preference for smaller families,” she said. The number of marriages in Kelantan has also decreased from 22,347 in 2021 to 16,925 in 2023, while the average age at first

Kelantan National Population and Family Development Board director Haslinda Hassan said last year, 11.1% of Kelantan’s population were aged 60 and above and the figure is expected to reach 15% by 2032. “This is more than just about numbers; it carries major implications for the economy, workforce, social planning and healthcare system, with a shrinking young labour pool and growing need for elderly care. “What is more worrying, many elderly people are still living in

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

5

Assemblyman charged over threat to public order

Doctor loses RM460,000 to online scam

1983, which would come into effect this year, even those who use drugs socially, such as in nightclubs or concerts, may face action and be ordered to undergo treatment. “Those who want to change will be given the opportunity to seek treatment at community centres, while hardcore addicts will be subject to a two-year detention order at rehabilitation centres.” He added that a 14-day remand application would be made for all those detained for further investigation, including laboratory confirmation tests. He said such operations would be carried out nationwide until the end of this year. – Bernama KUANTAN: A 55-year-old female doctor lost RM468,000 after falling victim to an online investment scam advertised on Facebook in May. Pahang police chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman said the victim was attracted by the advertisement and was later contacted by an individual posing as a representative of Nikko Asset Management, allegedly based in Singapore. “The suspect promised returns of 80% to 128% within a month. Convinced by the offer, the victim made 14 transfers into four different accounts between June 17 and Aug 6, using her Employees Provident Fund savings,” he said in a statement. He said the victim was then shown falsified profit statements through pictures sent by the suspect, indicating that her investment had grown to RM800,000, including the capital. “The victim was subsequently asked to pay another RM152,725, supposedly for tax purposes, before she could withdraw the profits. She became suspicious and refused to comply.” He added that checks revealed that Nikko Asset Management is a legitimate investment management company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with branches worldwide, but its name had been misused by scammers in this case. The victim lodged a report at the Kuantan police headquarters on Tuesday and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code. – Bernama Cops investigate suspected murder of female student KUALA LUMPUR: Police have recorded the statements of 19 individuals to assist investigations into the suspected murder of a female college student at her family home in USJ 2/1, Subang Jaya on Thursday. Subang Jaya police chief ACP Wan Azlan Wan Mamat said the individuals included the victim’s family members, friends and witnesses and the investigation would continue to identify the true motive and the suspect involved. “No arrests have been made so far and any further developments will be announced,” he said in a statement, adding that the case is being investigated under Section 302 of the Penal Code for murder. The victim, in her 20s, was found hung from a ceiling fan in the living room of her family home by her father at 11.55am on Thursday. Autopsy results indicated that she died from bleeding around the hyoid bone and there were signs of strangulation. The victim, who lived with her sister and cousin, was found alone and there was no theft reported. – Bernama

KUALA Setia assemblyman Muhammad Hilman Idham was charged at the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with making a statement on the social media platform TikTok late last month that allegedly threatened public order. The Bersatu Armada chief pleaded not guilty to the charge read before Magistrate Amira Abd Aziz, Bernama reported. “I claim trial,” he said. Muhammad Hilman, 36, was accused of making the statement at 2.09pm on July 30. The charge was framed under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum of two years imprisonment or a fine, or both upon conviction. A police officer from the Commercial Crime o Bersatu Armada chief claims trial to publishing offensive statement on social media LUMPUR: Gombak

accepting a bribe of RM500,000 from the same individual as an inducement to help the company secure the same project, which spanned from Jalan Sungai Adam to Kampung Banat in Perlis, with the project valued at RM47.8 million. Adam Radlan is also facing three charges of receiving bribes totalling RM4.1 million from Lian Tian Chuan and Mat Jusoh as payment for helping Nepturis Sdn Bhd and MIE Infrastructure & Energy secure two Jana Wibawa projects. He is also accused of soliciting a bribe of RM2 million from Lian in exchange for assisting Nepturis in obtaining the same projects. All the charges are under Section 16(a)(A) of the MACC Act 2009 and are punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of not less than five times the amount of the bribe or RM10,000, whichever is higher,uponconviction. Adam Radlan also faces seven money laundering charges amounting to more than RM3 million under Section 4(1)(b) of the Anti Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorist Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. The offences were allegedly committed between March 2021 and January 2023.

Investigation Department came across the post at Menara KPJ. DPP Datuk Badius Zaman Ahmad proposed bail at RM10,000, while lawyer Muhammad Rafique Rashid Ali, representing Muhammad Hilman, requested RM3,000 bail with one surety. The court fixed bail at RM4,000 with one surety and fixed Oct 9 for mention. Meanwhile, the Sessions Court yesterday acquitted and discharged Segambut Bersatu deputy chief Adam Radlan Adam Muhammad, 44, of all 12 corruption and money laundering charges related to the Jana Wibawa project made against him after paying a compound of RM4.1 million. Judge Suzana Hussin made the ruling after hearing submissions from DPP Farah Yasmin Salleh that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission has accepted Adam Radlan’s representation letter on June 3. Adam Radlan was charged with one count of soliciting a cash bribe of between 3.5% to 7% of the value of a project to be awarded from Mat Jusoh Mamat, the managing director of MIE Infrastructure & Energy Sdn Bhd. He is charged with another count of

CAPTURED CAR... . Road Transport Department (RTD) officers inspecting one of many vehicles seized during the second phase of “Op Luxury” at the Terengganu RTD headquarters. – BERNAMAPIC

Senior citizen among 128 arrested under anti-drug operation KUALA LUMPUR: A 61-year-old man with a history of more than 40 years of drug abuse was among 128 people detained under the National Anti-Drugs Agency’s “Op Perdana” that was conducted simultaneously around the capital and Labuan last night. He said the case reflects the challenge faced by authorities in dealing with hardcore addicts, who have been dependent on drugs for decades, despite various treatment and rehabilitation efforts. at a media conference after observing the operation that was conducted on Tuesday. Ruslin said those detained were Malaysians aged between 19 and 61, comprising 123 men and five women.

Among them were long-term heroin users, aged 40 to 60, who have been dependent on drugs for a long time. “Based on intelligence, the drug haunt in the Jalan Imbi area is active from 6am to 10am and 5pm to 7pm. Some are first-time users, while others are long-time addicts who have been in and out of rehabilitation centres.” He also said under the amended Drug Dependants (Treatment and Rehabilitation) Act

He added that the operation around Kuala Lumpur involved 77 personnel, focusing on drug hotspots, including abandoned construction sites on Jalan Imbi and a nearby People’s Housing Project. “A total of 112 people were detained in Kuala Lumpur and another 16 in Labuan. Preliminary screenings showed 77 of them tested positive for syabu, eight for ganja, five for benzodiazepine and the rest for heroin,” he said

Its director-general Datuk Ruslin Jusoh said the man, who works as a contract labourer, has a history of being in and out of prison more than 10 times and has been sentenced to six strokes of the rotan for drug-related offences since his youth. “He is married and his family lives in Kota Bharu, Kelantan. He suffers from diabetes, but continues with his drug habit.”

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

6 Mercedes-Benz passion

More seats to be provided for National Day celebration PUTRAJAYA: Information Department director-general Julina Johan said a total of 8,000 tiered seats will be provided for visitors to this year’s National Day celebration at Dataran Putrajaya, an increase of 4,000 from 2024. She said the measure was taken to improve visitor comfort, following public feedback on the shortage of seats at last year’s event. “This year, we took into account public feedback, as last year there was a constraint due to the lack of seats, so many could not enjoy the contingent parade. “We have discussed and decided to increase it to 8,000 seats. It is true that we cannot accommodate all visitors but Insya-Allah , we will try to provide comfort to those present,” she said during a media briefing on the National Day celebration on Tuesday. Twelve LED screens would also be set up to allow visitors to watch the National Day celebration live. Julina added that 15,000 parking bays would be made available at six locations linked to public transport services, including 100 buses, six water taxis and three Putrajaya Lake Cruises. She said these included the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), Precinct 1 (Botanical Gardens, Complex E open parking), Precinct 8 (Lake Club, Ayer 8), Precinct 9 (Putrajaya Sentral, PJH Destina) and Precinct 18 (Taman Pancarona). She also said the water taxi service would operate on Aug 30 between 8pm and 1am, while on Aug 31 it would run from as early as 5am until 2pm. Juliana said the bus service would be available free of charge on Aug 31, with pick-up points at Putrajaya Sentral, PICC and Persiaran Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, Precinct 1. “Visitors can choose where to park, as there are facilities available through public buses or water taxis.” She added that five surau and 18 medical tents would be set up around the venue, along with 60 food trucks and 200 mobile toilets. She said the police would issue a statement on the road closures and advised the public to plan their journeys accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. The public may access the latest updates on National Day 2025 through the celebration’s official social media platform, Merdeka360. – Bernama

doesn’t feel like a burden.” His admiration for Mercedes-Benz goes beyond aesthetics. “It is the technical features that draw me to these cars. From the strong suspension system to the engine’s durability, they stand the test of time. They remain comfortable, reliable and relevant even today.” For him, Mercedes-Benz is more than just a brand; it is a testament to the enduring quality of German engineering. “Other cars are great too, but for me, Mercedes models have a timeless appeal. It is not just about the design, but the durability and unmatched performance.” Meanwhile, GPMP president Yusri Yakub said the event, organised in collaboration with Yayasan Ikhtiar Parit, was special as it brought together more than 68 classic Mercedes-Benz cars to mark the 68th Merdeka anniversary. He added that the 78km convoy visited various locations within the Parit constituency, aiming to deepen the public’s understanding of independence and foster a sense of patriotism. “This convoy is not just about showcasing classic vehicles. It is about inspiring the Merdeka spirit in everyone, especially school students.”

including W129, W116, W124, W126 and the iconic SLR 129, a collection that speaks volumes about his passion for fine engineering. Born and raised in Lekir, Manjung in Perak, he has cultivated relationships with expert mechanics in the area, making car maintenance a breeze. “I have been fortunate to know many mechanics who are familiar with the intricacies of these classic engines,” he said, adding that getting spare parts is never an issue due to the network of fellow enthusiasts and owners who help each other out. To him, maintaining the cars is no different from caring for a new vehicle. “The difference is that modern cars rely more on electronics, while older models are more mechanical and easier to manage.” Masaud, who is also the advisor of the Perak Mercedes-Benz Motor Recreation Club (GPMP), believes this hands-on approach is part of the charm. Although the cost of maintaining such a collection might seem steep, he doesn’t mind. He spends around RM3,000 to RM4,000 a month on upkeep, a small price for the joy the cars bring. “It is a hobby that brings me peace, and it

o Fervour for classic German cars driven by family heirloom

PARIT: For Masaud Mansor, 62, the Mercedes-Benz Model 115 E Series, once owned by his late father, is more than just a car. It is a family heirloom, a symbol of love, memories and the bond he shared with his father. More than half a century old, the car continues to be in use, not just as a piece of history but a legacy he is determined to preserve for future generations. “My father bought this car directly from Germany in 1975. After his passing, I took on the responsibility of maintaining it and it has been with me since 1990,” he told Bernama during the Mercedes Classic Merdeka Convoy event at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Layang Layang Kiri yesterday. His love for Mercedes-Benz doesn’t stop with just one model. He owns 13 other Mercedes-Benz cars,

Masaud striking a pose next to the Mercedes Benz Model 115 E Series inherited Mercedes Classic Merdeka Convoy event. – BERNAMAPIC from his late father at the

THURSDAY | AUG 21, 2025

7

Seoul blocks elderly ex-spy from going North

‘U.S. DEMAND FOR RV S FUELS DEFORESTATION’ JAKARTA: Tropical wood demand from some of America’s top RV (recreational vehicle) brands is fuelling deforestation in Kalimantan. The recreational vehicle industry is the biggest consumer of tropical wood in the United States, UK-based NGO Earthsight and Indonesian NGO Auriga Nusantara said in a report. They said sheets of tropical “lauan” plywood found in Indonesia were likely being used in the floors, walls and ceilings of RVs produced by major brands. Earthsight director Sam Lawson said: “RV giants need to get out of the 1980s and implement the kinds of minimum sustainability standards other US corporates have had in place for decades.” Indonesia has one of the highest rates of deforestation. – AFP CHINA, INDIA PLEDGE TO RESUME FLIGHTS BEIJING: China and India announced they would restart direct flights in a string of diplomatic breakthroughs. Following Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s trip to India, Beijing and New Delhi also agreed to advance talks on their disputed border, resume tourism visa issuance and boost trade. In talks on the border issue with National Security adviser Ajit Doval, the two sides agreed to “explore the possibility of advancing demarcation negotiations” and vowed to reopen three border trade markets. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to China later this month, his first visit since 2018. Wang is due in Pakistan, India’s arch-rival and one of China’s closest regional partners. – AFP FIREBALL LIGHTS UP JAPANESE SKIES TOKYO: A flashing fireball dashed across the skies of western Japan, shocking residents and dazzling stargazers, though experts said it was a natural phenomenon and not an alien invasion. Videos and photos emerged online of the extremely bright ball of light visible for hundreds of kilometres shortly after 11pm (midnight in Malaysia) on Tuesday. Toshihisa Maeda, head of Sendai Space Museum in the Kagoshima region in southwestern Japan, said that it was a fireball, an exceptionally bright meteor. It seemed to have gone into the Pacific, he said. Objects causing fireball events can exceed one metre in size, according to Nasa. – AFP NORTH KOREA SLAMS SEOUL’S LEADERSHIP SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s powerful sister accused Seoul yesterday of having a “double character”, slamming it for holding military drills with the US while attempting diplomatic overtures towards Pyongyang. New South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has vowed to“respect” the North’s political system and build “military trust”, while pledging to pursue dialogue without preconditions – a sharp break with the policies of his predecessor. Even so, South Korea and the United States began annual joint exercises on Monday aimed at preparing for potential threats from the North. Lee described the drills as “defensive” and said they were “not intended to heighten tensions”. – AFP

BR I E F S

Among them is Samia, 26, from Afghanistan’s Hazara minority, a community long persecuted at home, who gave birth just three weeks ago. “I came here when my baby was seven days old, and now it has been 22 days … we have no food, and my baby was sick but there was no doctor,” she said, wearing damp clothes and shoes caked in mud as she cuddled her son, Daniyal. The United Nations says Pakistan has begun deporting documented Afghans before a Sept 1 deadline that could force more than a million to leave. The action comes despite about 1.3 million holding refugee registration documents, while 750,000 have Afghan identity cards issued in Pakistan. Samia now lives on the park’s wet ground, among 200 families who cook, sleep and dry their belongings there after nights of rain. Plastic sheets serve as makeshift shelters, and children and parents spend their days battling mud, sun and hunger. Families pool the little money they SEOUL: An elderly North Korean ex-spy who spent decades in jail in the South and has pleaded to be sent to the North was prevented yesterday from crossing the border by South Korean soldiers. Ahn Hak-sop, 95, is one of six elderly former North Korean soldiers and spies who have recently stepped up their demands that Seoul repatriate them to their ideological homeland. They were convicted in the South for anti-state activities and served decades behind bars for refusing to renounce communism. They have subsequently been released. Holding a North Korean flag, Ahn “walked a few hundred metres towards a military checkpoint and was stopped by personnel”, said a spokeswoman for a civic group campaigning for his return. Anh was later taken to hospital. A photo carried by the Yonhap news agency showed Ahn holding the red-and-blue North Korean flag at the border – an act that is punishable under Seoul’s national security law. The Korean War ended in 1953 with an armistice rather than a peace treaty, leaving the two Koreas technically still at war. Ahn was captured during the o Unification Ministry reviewing issue

Ahn pleads with a police officer near a military checkpoint in the border city of Paju. – AFPPIC

which handles inter-Korean affairs, said on Tuesday it was reviewing “various ways to address the issue”. A ministry official said more former convicts in similar situations were expected to demand repatriation, though the government had no precise figure on how many remain alive. In 2000, South Korea repatriated 63 “unconverted” former prisoners during a brief period of rapprochement – the first and only such event to date. – AFP

uniform under orders from the Workers’ Party,” Ahn said in an interview last year. “But the South Korean government did not treat me as such, and I was forced to spend more than 40 years in prison, subjected to torture.” The civic group said it would continue to press for the men’s return. North Korea has yet to comment on the case. Seoul’s Unification Ministry,

Korean War in 1953 while on an infiltration mission and remained imprisoned until 1995, a lengthy term that could have ended earlier had he agreed to embrace democracy. The civic group representing Ahn and the five others argues they should be recognised as “prisoners of war” and that their repatriation requests must be respected under the Geneva Convention. “I am a prisoner of war who came here in a North Korean military

Evicted Afghan refugees huddle in Islamabad park ISLAMABAD: Evicted from their homes and huddling under plastic sheets after heavy rains, Afghan refugees in a park n ear government offices in Islamabad said they had nowhere to go as Pakistan pressures landlords to expel do cumented families. have to buy potatoes or squash, cooking small portions over open fires to share with several people. The women use the washroom in a nearby mosque. Sahera Babur, 23, another member of the Hazara community, who is nine months pregnant, spoke with tears in her eyes.

“If my baby is born in this situation, what will happen to me and my child?” she said, adding that police had told her landlord to evict her family because they were Afghan. Dozens of policemen stood at the edge of the park when Reuters visited, watching the camp. Refugees said officers regularly told them to leave or risk being taken away. Police denied harassment. Jawad Tariq, a deputy inspector-general, said refugees were only asked to leave voluntarily or move to holding centres. Pakistan’s Information Ministry did not respond to a text message requesting comment. Refugees say they have been left in limbo for years. “UNHCR gave us promises … but they have not visited us,” said Dewa Hotak, 22, an Afghan and former television journalist. The agency’s spokesperson in Pakistan, Qaiser Khan Afridi, called the situation “precarious”, adding that Afghans unable to regularise their stay faced arrest, deportation and homelessness.

Afghan citizen Tayyaba, 45, who was working in the archive department at Radio Television Afghanistan, sits with others at the park. – REUTERSPIC

Pakistan, host to millions of Afghans since the 1979 Soviet invasion, has stepped up expulsions under a 2023 crackdown, blaming Afghans for crime and militancy, charges rejected by Kabul. Iran’s plan to deport Afghans adds to a refugee return crisis. The green grass and serene vistas in Islamabad’s park stand in stark contrast to the lives of those camping there. “My message to the world is to see our situation,” Samia said, clutching her newborn. – Reuters

He said the agency was pressing Islamabad to create a registration mechanism and reiterated its call not to return people to a country where their lives may be in danger. Many at the camp say they cannot go back to Afghanistan because of the risks. Ahmad Zia Faiz, a former adviser in Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry, said he feared reprisals for serving in the previous government, adding, “If we return to Afghanistan, there is a risk of being killed.”