22/08/2025

Centre receives five haemodialysis machines from Berjaya Corp Support since 2019 enables facility to serve more Standalone Law Ministry mulled to bring coherence to system Move would allow better engagement with regional partners to shape just and responsive order: PM than 70 individuals daily compared with only 10 previously. Report on — page 3

FRIDAY AUG 22, 2025

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Report on h page 2

Millions of hectares of

jungle facing risk of being wiped out NGO calls for moratorium on Industrial Timber Plantation projects presented as ‘restoration’ initiatives.

A report by watchdog RimbaWatch states the expansion of such projects threatens 2.4 million hectares across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, covering an area approximately the combined size of Johor and Negeri Sembilan. – BERNAMAPIC

Report on h page 4

Secondary school teacher alleged to have spread unverified information regarding use of washing machine in relation to death of student Zara Qairina. Report on h page 5 Charged with inciting alarm

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

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‘Nation capable of thwarting espionage’ A 33-second video has been widely circulated on TikTok, using the Queen’s image and mimicking Her Majesty’s voice, purportedly to convey aid to Malaysians in need of financial assistance. – Bernama PETALING JAYA: Malaysia possesses strong intelligence capabilities and a comprehensive security framework to counter espionage threats posed by foreign elements, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail in Parliament yesterday. He said espionage is a global threat affecting all nations, and Malaysia is no exception. “We classify espionage as a serious national security issue that must be addressed comprehensively,” he said in response to a question from Lubok Antu MP Roy Angau Gingkoi on preventive and intervention measures taken by the government. Saifuddin Nasution said espionage typically involves stealing sensitive political, military or economic information without authorisation. He said the modus operandi often begins with identifying targets, gathering data for profiling and understanding an organisation’s structure. He added that perpetrators may act through insiders or enter Malaysia as tourists. “Some insiders are recruited with promises of rewards, others coerced through threats and some influenced by ideology.” He highlighted the growing use of cyber espionage, with intruders gaining covert access to information systems via phishing, malware or spyware. He said the stolen data is then transmitted to handlers through the dark web or encrypted channels. Saifuddin Nasution outlined a three pronged national response to combat such threats – prevention, detection and enforcement. “Prevention measures include continuous monitoring of watchlists and blacklists as well as the strengthening of security vetting procedures, especially for foreigners working in Malaysia. “On detection, intelligence agencies are enhancing expertise and coordinating information security programmes to safeguard critical data. “Cooperation with international bodies such as Interpol and Aseanapol also forms part of Malaysia’s strategy.” He cited the 2022 arrest of a Malaysian woman in her 30s who had been recruited by Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. He said her mission was to kidnap two Palestinian men, but police successfully rescued them and detained her. His remarks came amid renewed scrutiny of Malaysia’s security measures following the Aug 6 arrest of two Chinese nationals for allegedly trespassing by flying drones into a restricted area of the Defence Ministry headquarters. Fake TikTok account of Queen detected KUALA LUMPUR: The Royal Press Office (RPO) has detected a fake TikTok account which uses artificial intelligence technology to mimic the voice of Her Majesty the Queen of Malaysia Raja Zarith Sofiah. According to a post on the official Facebook page of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the RPO said the video featured a voice resembling that of Raja Zarith Sofiah’s, allegedly promising financial assistance. “The public is advised to remain cautious and not be easily influenced by such fake accounts which are often used by scammers for fraudulent purposes on social media platforms. “The RPO wishes to stress that impersonation and misuse of identity are offences under the law.” Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Malaysia may soon have dedicated Law Ministry

ensuring stability and the rule of law.” He stressed the importance of a strong legal and judicial system as the backbone of a free, independent and democratic nation. He added that ongoing reforms are essential to reinforce the rule of law and “end the era of arrogance and abuse of power within the executive, judiciary and legislature”. “Political arrogance in the past weakened our legal institutions and even tainted the judiciary with corruption and abuse.” He praised Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said for her persistent push for change, describing her initiatives with the Attorney-General’s Chambers as “historic reforms that will restore confidence and dismantle perceptions of abuse of power”. On regional peace, Anwar commended the leaders of Laos and Cambodia for agreeing to a ceasefire following recent tensions, calling it a triumph of diplomacy and a testament to Asean’s spirit of consensus and respect. He said Asean’s quiet but firm approach to conflict resolution is “a model for maintaining peace and stability”.

o Accesstojusticemustnotbeconfinedtoelitesbutextended to every citizen, especially the poor and marginalised: Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: As part of sweeping reforms to restore integrity, fairness and trust in the legal system as envisaged by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, a dedicated Law Ministry could soon be a reality. Anwar said the move would bring greater coherence to the legal system and position Malaysia to engage more effectively with regional partners in advancing the rule of law. “Such reforms are not abstract but vital to ensure Asean’s relevance in a rapidly changing world. By aligning with regional best practices, Malaysia will be better placed to shape a more just and responsive order,” he said at the closing of the Asean Law Forum 2025. Anwar said Malaysia’s chosen theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” as Asean chair, is not a slogan but a genuine pledge to ensure Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

that no one is left behind. He said access to justice must not be confined to the elites but extended to every citizen, especially the poor and marginalised. “Justice must be accessible to all. Too often, the vulnerable are sidelined and denied due process. True development means that education, healthcare and the legal system must all be inclusive. “Sustainability, meanwhile, is about building institutions that endure, rooted in integrity, fairness and public trust.” He urged Asean nations to expand mutual legal assistance, strengthen dispute resolution mechanisms and address emerging challenges such as digital governance and artificial intelligence. “Dialogue and principled diplomacy have always been Asean’s way. Strengthening mediation, arbitration and conciliation is not only about legal processes but also about

Anwar and Azalina at the Asean Law Forum held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

PM explains call for more Thai-Cambodia observers KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has defended Malaysia’s call for additional Asean observers to monitor the ceasefire along the Thai-Cambodian border after acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai publicly rejected the proposal. Phumtham had described the proposal as interference in Thailand’s border dispute with Cambodia. countries, before any reinforcements are called in from home bases. He said this is not an unusual step but rather a practical solution to balance manpower needs across observer missions. “There is no contradiction here. The statement simply says that we should start with embassy staff first,” he said, adding that Malaysia is not seeking to deviate from the agreed Asean framework. Thailand rather than seek reinforcements from outside sources. It was also reported that Cambodia had asked Malaysia to send more observers, claiming that Thai troops had attempted to provoke clashes along the border. Meanwhile, Asean law ministers concluded the ALF with the signing of a joint declaration on strengthening international commercial arbitration and mediation. The declaration reaffirmed Asean’s

Anwar said the proposal was in line with existing Asean agreements and was aimed at ensuring that monitoring missions remain effective and credible. He said while certain locations such as Bangkok already have an adequate number of observers, other sites are under-staffed and require reinforcements to function properly. “For example, in Bangkok we have 10 observers. But in another location, only two. So, we said the number needs to be increased,” he said after closing the Asean Law Forum (ALF) 2025 yesterday. Anwar said additional personnel would first be sourced from defence attaches and embassy staff already stationed in the respective

Phumtham had told Thai media that he had turned down the suggestion, stressing that the long-standing tensions along the Thai Cambodian border were bilateral matters that should not be opened to external involvement. “I told him that we don’t allow outsiders to take part in the operations,” said Phumtham. He insisted that ceasefire monitoring should continue to be carried out by the Asean Interim Observer Team as mandated during the recent General Border Committee meeting in Malaysia. Phumtham added that if additional observers were truly required, Asean states must rely on their existing military attaches or embassy staff from the eight Asean embassies in

commitment to upholding the rule of law, enhancing access to justice and supporting economic growth. The ministers pledged to develop a robust regional framework for arbitration and mediation, aligning it with international conventions such as the New York Convention and the Singapore Convention on Mediation. The declaration further underscored inclusivity, with ministers stressing that arbitration and mediation must remain accessible to businesses of all sizes and communities across Asean. – By Qirana Nabilla Mohd Rashidi

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

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Dialysis centre gets boost in support and donation

Land Below the Wind tipped as gateway to space PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is weighing Sabah as the site of its first rocket launch facility, with the government saying the project could strengthen national security, boost scientific exploration and place the country firmly on the global space map. The Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry said it is still awaiting the full feasibility study report from the Sabah government before deciding on the viability of the project. In a written reply to Sandakan MP Vivian Wong Shir Yee, the ministry said the Malaysian Space Agency had introduced the guidelines for feasibility studies on the development of launch facilities in Malaysia on Nov 2, 2023. From a geological perspective, Sabah is regarded as relatively stable and suitable for major infrastructure projects. Its location near the equator also provides natural propulsion advantages, which could significantly cut rocket fuel costs. The ministry added that the sparsely populated areas with direct access to the open sea make Sabah an attractive candidate, as they reduce safety risks for local communities while minimising disruptions to domestic air traffic. – By KIRTINEE RAMESH First prosecution case of bullying as criminal offence KUALA LUMPUR: The case involving Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir is the first to be prosecuted under Section 507C(1) of the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2025, which stipulates bullying as a criminal offence. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said since the amendment to Section 507 of the Penal Code was enforced and gazetted on July 11, police had opened 11 investigation papers related to bullying. “The investigation papers fall under Sections 507B, 507C and so on. This shows that the strengthening of the law has enabled the police to take action. “In the case of Zara, for example, in which the accused were charged, it is under one of the amended sections, making this the first case we have prosecuted (since the amendment),” he said when winding up the debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan for the Home Ministry in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday. – Bernama

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

centre three times, not only for Buddhists but for people of all faiths and backgrounds. “We hope our contribution inspires others to help build a healthier and more caring society,” he said. The centre’s treasurer, Yap Yoong Kim recalled how far the organisation has come since its founding in 2003. “Back then, we had very little funds and relied heavily on donations. Today, with continued support from BCorp and others, we are able to serve many more patients in need.” Dialysis assistant Fatimah Mary Sunderajah, 58, who has worked at the centre since its establishment 22 years ago, expressed gratitude for the additional machines. “I’ve seen patients as young as 18 come here for treatment. It breaks my heart to hear their stories, but having more machines makes a big difference. We are truly grateful for this support.” Patients themselves echoed the impact. Wong Wah Lee, 61, who has been on dialysis for seven years, said the routine remains difficult but necessary. “I come three times a week, four hours each session. It is not easy, but this centre makes it affordable for me.” Another patient, Thulandhas, 68, who has been receiving treatment for nearly two years, said dialysis is his only option due to age-related transplant risks. “I was told transplant is no longer possible, so dialysis is the only way. The fees here are much cheaper and I come every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.” The Ampang Kau Ong Yah Haemodialysis Centre, one of Selangor’s largest non-profit dialysis providers, was set up in 2003 with a mission to provide subsidised treatment for Malaysians with kidney failure. As a corporate citizen, BCorp said its efforts are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the goal of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all. The 80-page document defines different types of bullying – physical, verbal, psychological and cyber – and spells out the rights and responsibilities of staff. It also details reporting channels via MyHELP and other mechanisms such as the public complaints management system or SISPAA, email and formal letters, complete with timelines for resolution. The document has flowcharts that map out investigation steps, counselling pathways, data tracking and intervention measures such as awareness campaigns and anti-bullying training.

o Contribution of five machines and RM100,000 by Berjaya Corp latest push to affordable life-saving treatment at public facility in Ampang

KUALA Berjaya Corporation Bhd (BCorp) has deepened its role in community healthcare, donating five haemodialysis machines and cash aid that push its total support for the Ampang Kau Ong Yah Haemodialysis Centre to nearly RM500,000. The latest support, valued at RM215,000 for the machines and an additional RM100,000 for rooftop replacement, was handed over at a ceremony attended by BCorp founder and adviser Tan Sri Vincent Tan and Ampang Kau Ong Yah Foundation president Wong Kin Tack. Since 2019, BCorp has donated LUMPUR:

session, heavily subsidised by the foundation, allowing nearly 460 patients over the years to access life-saving treatment that would otherwise be out of reach. Tan said the initiative reflects BCorp’s values of compassion and inclusivity. “Giving back to the community has always been at the heart of what we do. Since 2019, we have supported the haemodialysis

nine haemodialysis machines worth RM381,000 to the centre, alongside RM100,000 in cash aid, bringing its total contributions to RM481,000. The sustained backing has enabled the centre to expand from 10 machines serving just 18 patients in its early years to 20 machines treating 73 patients today. Fees remain at RM110 per

(From left) Tan presenting a mock cheque to foundation president Wong and vice-president Lim Thang Soon. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Health Ministry leads with first workplace guidelines

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

protection. Disciplinary action will be taken in proven cases, Dzulkefly said, but corrective reminders and a culture of accountability remain vital. The initiative is part of a broader push to improve workplace well being, alongside measures such as flexible working hours, peer counsellor groups, the mental health crisis helpline (HEAL 15555) and mental health support guidelines for house officers. “How we treat colleagues will shape how we treat patients. There is no tolerance for bullying in this ministry. Full stop.”

“We cannot allow normalisation of bullying or under-reporting of cases. Every complaint must be dealt with swiftly and thoroughly.” Developed by the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH), the guidelines outline procedures for identifying, reporting and investigating bullying. They are backed by the MyHELP complaint system, launched in 2022, which allows staff to lodge reports directly with the integrity unit. As of July 31, 430 complaints had been received through MyHELP, all under investigation with assurances of confidentiality and whistleblower

Bullying is not a trivial matter he said, but a systemic problem that can erode integrity, weaken morale and ultimately compromise patient care. “Under my leadership and that of my deputies, the ministry has zero tolerance for bullying. “This document will be an important reference to ensure a workplace that is fair, safe and healthy. It must not remain a document alone, but a way of life for all of us.” He added that senior management and department heads bore the responsibility of leading by example and creating an environment built on empathy, fairness and respect.

PUTRAJAYA: The Health Ministry has rolled out its first-ever Workplace Bullying Management Guidelines, making it the pioneer among government ministries to establish formal procedures for tackling bullying within its ranks. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad, who launched the initiative yesterday, said it marked a clear statement of the ministry’s “zero tolerance” towards bullying and its commitment to building a fairer, healthier workplace culture.

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

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Malaysian forests at risk under ‘restoration’ projects

Damar Laut. During the visit, they were briefed on upcoming facilities including the 380m marine flyover, Pan Island Link 2A, Matang Food Court, community facilities and a new Community Development Department training centre. Silicon Island is a reclamation project owned by the Penang government, marking the first time the state has directly undertaken such a project to drive long-term economic growth. – Bernama The livestock exhibition at the veterinary pavilion also brought together more than 220 sado (muscular) cattle as well as other livestock, including deer and hybrid chickens. “We also introduced a livestock feed product called OxyFAT, developed through a collaboration between Kelantan Agricultural Group Berhad and Oxytech Sdn Bhd, with support from RHB Bank as the project financing partner for feed and feed mills. “This launch will enable OxyFAT feed to be marketed nationwide, including to the southern regions of Thailand,” he added. – Bernama Penang cracks down on pig farm violations TASEK GELUGOR: Pig farmers and traders in Penang, particularly in Kampung Selamat, have been reminded not to misuse the movement permission account or transfer permits by using the names of other farms, to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF). Penang Veterinary Services Department director Dr Saira Banu Mohamed Rejab stressed that they are also prohibited from moving sick pigs or those confirmed positive for the disease to slaughterhouses. “Such actions are not only against the law but also pose a high risk of spreading ASF infections to other farms and areas. Currently, the infected pigs are under control and we hope no further spread occurs. “The department has strengthened enforcement and monitoring of slaughterhouses while also conducting continuous surveillance to ensure other farms remain ASF-free,” she told Bernama yesterday. So far, four farms in Kampung Selamat have been confirmed positive for ASF and 21 pig samples from slaughterhouses have also tested positive.

RimbaWatch urged federal, Sabah and Sarawak authorities to establish an immediate moratorium on all conversions of forest reserves for timber plantations. “This can be achieved by upholding the 2021 National Land Council ban on the zoning of new land for ITPs and explicitly prohibiting new forest conversions in reserves. “Second, the Federal, Sabah and Sarawak departments of environment should issue a directive banning all future approvals of environmental impact assessments for ITPs in forest reserves. “Third, the National Forestry Act should be amended to prevent monoculture plantations and other non-natural forest uses being permitted in reserves. “And finally, a legal strategy should be formulated to maintain natural forest cover at its current maximum extent, including by enshrining key measures in federal and state legislation such as the upcoming Climate Change Act,” it said in the statement.

government as deforestation, which is an exceedingly concerning development,” the statement read. The group further warned that ITPs pose a significant threat to the traditional territories of the Orang Asli community, the diverse indigenous groups residing in the country. Its 2024 report estimated that hundreds of thousands of hectares of indigenous territories fall within plantation concessions, including those for ITPs. “The clearance of 2.4 million hectares of forest reserves for plantations jeopardises Malaysia’s domestic commitment to maintain 50% forest cover and its international pledge under the Glasgow Declaration on Forests to reduce forest degradation by 2030. “Importantly, these clearances would violate the rights of indigenous communities and undermine the ecological functions of Malaysia’s forests, which are essential for global planetary health and local resilience to worsening climate change,” it added.

o Watchdog renews call for moratorium as 2.4 million hectares of reserves threatened

Ű BY MAHADHIR MONIHULDIN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

immediate moratorium on all ITP projects in forest reserves nationwide. In a statement on Tuesday, the watchdog explained that ITPs are programmes supported by the forestry authorities to increase timber production. “The report, State of the Malaysian Rainforest 2024, found that the planned expansion of ITPs in forest reserves threatens the deforestation of 2.4 million hectares of natural forest across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. This represents 76% of all total threats to Malaysia’s forests, covering an area roughly equal to the combined size of Johor and Negeri Sembilan. “As ITPs are exclusively located in areas gazetted as forest reserves, any conversion of natural forest to timber plantations will not be recognised by the Malaysian

PETALING of hectares of natural forests, including indigenous territories, are at risk of being erased under industrial timber plantation projects presented as “forest restoration”. RimbaWatch, an environmental watchdog, has warned of the danger and called for an immediate moratorium on such schemes in forest reserves. An English news portal recently reported that a proposed Industrial Timber Plantation (ITP) project at the Tersang Forest Reserve in Pahang would clear forests equivalent to 1,800 football fields, threaten biodiversity and harm indigenous communities by infringing their rights. In response to the report, RimbaWatch renewed its calls for an JAYA: Millions

Kelantan showcases first cross-bred cow BACHOK: The first French Charolais cross-breed cow in Kelantan, named “Marconah”, was showcased to the public for the first time at an exhibition held in conjunction with the 2025 Kelantan Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen’s Day at Pantai Irama. State Agriculture, Agro-Food Industry and Commodities National Veterinary Biodiversity Institute in Jerantut to produce this high-quality breed,” he said during the opening ceremony on Wednesday. He added that the achievement was an important step towards producing a hardy cattle breed and reducing dependence on imports in the future.

local fishermen to sustain their livelihoods more effectively. “To date, 118 out of 295 active fishermen who own boats have received new boats and engines, with a total expenditure of almost RM10 million,” he added. On Wednesday, Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife Toh Puan Raja Noor Ashikin Raja Abdullah visited the project site to witness the progress and crossed to the island via a 378m temporary iron bridge built at Permatang Committee chairman Datuk Tuan Mohd Saripudin Tuan Ismail said the 180kg female calf was produced through the artificial insemination straw method. “Marconah is the offspring of a cow named ‘Marco’, which was born early last year and is now one year and seven months old. It was developed through the Naimbif Cattle Conservation Project and the Bio Animal Reproduction Centre in Jeram Pasu, Pasir Puteh. “The state government – through Kelantan Biotech Corporation – has collaborated with the Kelantan Veterinary Services Department and the

Silicon Island reclamation crosses 80ha milestone GEORGE TOWN: Reclamation works for Silicon Island have passed the 80ha mark, marking steady progress for Penang’s largest land reclamation project to date. a positive sign that the project was advancing according to plan and was not only about physical progress. benefits from improved facilities,” he said in a statement. LITTLE PATRIOTS ... Children from Tabika Kemas Klebang Restu waving the Jalur Gemilang in Ipoh, Perak before joining a two-kilometre parade to enliven the National Month celebrations. – BERNAMAPIC

On the development of the Social Impact Management Plan, Farizan highlighted that RM11.7 million in ex-gratia payments had been channelled to 791 eligible fishermen, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to their welfare. In addition to cash assistance, the government has also introduced a boat and engine scheme as part of ongoing efforts to provide financial support and modern equipment for

“This project is designed to drive Penang’s long-term growth by combining world-class infrastructure, sustainable development practices and community-oriented facilities. “It will also open up new opportunities for investment, innovation and employment, while ensuring that the local community

The project, covering a total area of 930.78ha, is being developed in two phases – 510ha under Phase 1 and 420.9ha under Phase 2 – with reclamation works beginning in September 2023. Penang Infrastructure Corporation Sdn Bhd CEO Datuk Seri Farizan Darus said the milestone was

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

5 Teacher charged with causing public alarm

o Accused allegedly spread false statements on social media about death of Zara Qairina

during investigation, surrendered to the police station and was not a flight risk. The court granted her bail of RM4,000 in one surety and set Oct 9 for mention. the

Kamde, representing the accused, applied for a lower bail of RM3,000 on grounds that his client is a single mother with three schoolgoing children and elderly parents to support. “My client is a teacher with the Education Ministry with an income of RM5,000 a month. “She also supports three children aged 10, 11 and 12 and parents aged 65 and 66, with the mother having suffered a stroke.” Mohamad Zaiful also said she cooperated with the authorities

“SHA_Abrienda” at 1.20pm on Aug 6, with the intent to cause alarm to the public. The statement was witnessed by a police officer at the KL International Airport Terminal 2. She was charged under Section 505(b) of the Penal Code, which provides imprisonment of up to two years or a fine, or both. DPP Nadia Mohd Izhar proposed bail of RM10,000 in one surety. Lawyer Mohamad Zaiful Bahrin

SEPANG: An English teacher of a secondary school was charged in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday with causing public alarm by allegedly spreading unverified information regarding the death of Form One student Zara Qairina Mahathir. Siti Hajar Aflah Sharuddin, 39,

It was reported that Zara Qairina, a student at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Agama Tun Datu Mustapha in Limauan, Sabah, was found unconscious near the school dormitory drain at 4am on July 16. She died a day later at the Queen Elizabeth I Hospital in Kota Kinabalu. Court for Children proceedings closed to public KUALA LUMPUR: Proceedings in the Court for Children, unlike regular courts, are conducted behind closed doors to safeguard the identity and welfare of minors while ensuring their right to a fair trial. Only immediate family members, lawyers, DPPs and court staff are allowed inside during the proceedings. Access is denied to the public and media to protect the safety and confidentiality of the children involved. Former Court of Appeal Judge Datuk Yaacob Md Sam said the Court for Children was established under Section 11 of the Child Act 2001 (Act 611), which defines children as those under the age of 18. “Children accused of committing criminal offences will face charges under laws such as the Penal Code, but the cases will be registered and tried in accordance with Act 611. “The identities of child offenders must not be revealed to the public by any party, including the media, as doing so constitutes an offence under Act 611.” Former magistrate Ahmad Shamil Azad said Section 15 of Act 611 prohibits the media from reporting the names, addresses or personal details of child offenders accused in court, or from publishing their photographs, as they are under the age of 18. “The media is barred from covering proceedings inside the courtroom. Usually, in such cases, the media would wait for any statements from the family, their lawyer or the DPP once proceedings for the day are concluded.” Ahmad Shamil also said Section 90(1) of Act 611 stipulates that if a child is brought before a court, the charge and its nature must be explained to the child offender in simple language suitable to their age and level of maturity. “If the child is represented by a lawyer, the responsibility to explain the charges may be delegated to the lawyer or parents if necessary, so that the child understands the charges and the options available. “The court will then enquire whether the child wishes to plead guilty, and for subsequent proceedings, if the child is unrepresented, the court may assist by asking questions for the purpose of the trial.” Ahmad Shamil added that children must be accompanied by their mother or guardian throughout court proceedings and failure to appear may result in punishment under Section 88(2) of Act 611, which provides a maximum fine of RM5,000, imprisonment of up to two years, or both. Former Kuala Lumpur magistrate Nur’Aminahtul Mardiah Md Nor said journalists must refrain from photographing child offenders in the Court for Children, even when proceedings are not in session. – Bernama

pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Khairatul Animah Jelani She is alleged to have spread false statements, claiming that Zara Qairina died after being put in a washing machine, Bernama reported. Siti Hajar is said to have posted the claim on her TikTok account

Chinese national student ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation KAJANG: A university student charged with eight counts of attempted murder and causing injury to seven victims has been ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation for a month.

Sessions Court Judge Normastura Ayub and Magistrate Fatin Dayana Jalil made the ruling after allowing an application by DPP Faelly Jeffrey Lanjungan and DPP Siti Nur Alia Safri, who said the accused, a Chinese national named Liu Ting, 24, appeared confused and did not understand the charges read out. The court did not grant bail and ordered Liu to be sent to Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta, Tanjung Rambutan in Perak for psychiatric examination, in addition to setting the case mention for Sept 19. Previously, Faelly did not propose bail because the charges against the accused were serious and non-bailable, and also requested that the accused be sent for psychiatric evaluation. Liu pled not guilty to three charges. The first charge involved intent to murder two men, aged 19 and 21, and causing injury to a 35-year-old woman. The charge was framed under Section 307 of the Penal Code, which carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison and a fine. For the other two charges, she also pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to a 60-year-old woman by slashing her right arm with a knife, and stabbing a 27-year-old man in the stomach. Both charges were filed under Section 326 of the Penal Code, which provides for a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a fine or whipping. In the Magistrate’s Court, the accused was also charged with causing injury to two men, aged 21 and 49, as well as a woman aged 53, using a knife. Liu understood the three charges read out by the interpreter, but she remained silent and made no plea. All three charges are under Section 324 of the Penal Code, which provides for a

Liu being escorted by police personnel into court yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC maximum imprisonment of 10 years or a fine or whipping or any two of those punishments, if convicted.

A video of the incident was widely circulated on social media, showing a woman involved in a traffic crash, before exiting her vehicle holding a knife. Also visible were several injured motorcyclists and attempts by the public to restrain the woman involved. – Bernama

The offences were allegedly committed at Jalan Besar, at the Semenyih Persimpangan Metropoint junction and at a premises in the Metropoint Complex on Aug 13.

Cops record 48 witness statements in Pamela Ling investigation KUALA LUMPUR: Police have summoned 48 witnesses, including four officers from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission

in terms of data, does not give an impression that the level (of public safety) is worrying. But we cannot adopt a denial attitude because if it involves lives, it is crucial from the perspective of the police and we will use all our resources to overcome it.” Meanwhile, on the issue of national border security, Saifuddin Nasution said the authorities detected 71 illegal routes for smuggling activities along the border of Sarawak, Malaysia with Kalimantan Indonesia, including hotspots in Ba’kelalan, Lubuk Antu and Tebedu. He said the government has allocated RM28 million to the Home Ministry to develop additional security control posts. – Bernama

when she was on her way to an appointment at MACC headquarters on April 9) was found north of the Bukit Kayu Hitam-Thailand border. “This is only a belief, not an affirmative (confirmation),” he said during his speech on the 13th Malaysia Plan debate for his ministry in the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday. He said police will investigate every report of a kidnapping or missing persons case according to the standard operating procedures in accordance with the law. He added that according to police data and records, in every 10 cases of missing persons, nine were successfully found, including those who were alive and those who died. “Specifically, this missing person incident,

(MACC), to record their statements to assist in the investigation into the disappearance of Datin Seri Pamela Ling Yueh. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said cooperation was also being carried out with enforcement agencies, including the MACC, to ensure that the investigation would be carried out comprehensively. “Cooperation was made with related agencies, including the Immigration Department. For example, the vehicle that was allegedly used (to kidnap Ling in Putrajaya

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

6 Bridging centuries with technology

o From augmented reality apps to virtual tours, museums are going digital to captivate the next generation

Young visitors exploring

Malaysia’s rich history with a VR headset at the Hang Tuah Centre. – BERNAMAPIC

MALACCA: Once rooted firmly in the soil, Malaysia’s cultural heritage is now finding a second home in the digital cloud. From ancient manuscripts revived through augmented reality to virtual journeys into the Japanese occupation, technologies such as virtual reality (VR), artificial intelligence and 3D scanning – hallmarks of the Fourth Industrial Revolution — are transforming how history is preserved, experienced and remembered. At the National Museum, an augmented reality (AR) app brings 28 selected collections to life in vivid 2D and 3D multimedia formats for on-site visitors. In Taiping, the Perak Museum’s 2023 VR exhibition transport audiences into the daily realities of life under Japanese occupation. Malacca Department of Culture and Arts director Ezlina Elias said using technology to visualise heritage makes it more appealing to younger audiences and opens the door to new ways of experiencing the nation’s history. “This could become a new tourism draw, particularly for the digital generation, who are naturally drawn to electronic devices and eager to explore history in a fresh, interactive context,” she told Bernama. Unlike the 1970s and 1980s

generation who relied on books to imagine the past, today’s generation can immerse themselves in history through interactive websites and digital applications. “This could deepen their appreciation and understanding of history, while also inspiring tourists to better value our country’s cultural and heritage treasures.” In this context, the Malacca government’s initiative to repatriate and digitise manuscripts and artefacts from the Malacca Sultanate era – particularly those linked to Admiral Hang Tuah and currently held in 14 countries including Vatican City, Italy, India, Japan and Turkey – will give the public an opportunity to explore and appreciate the authenticity of the nation’s history. Notably, one half of a sundang (a large dagger-like weapon) and a pair of ceremonial keris believed to have belonged to Hang Tuah were recently returned via his descendants from the Bintan Islands in Indonesia. Ezlina also pointed to the Hang Tuah Centre in Duyong, which employs AI to create images for video displays and VR content depicting trade, currency and language. She cited it as an excellent example of how the Malacca Museum Corporation (Perzim) is bringing Malacca’s history to life with greater accuracy, appeal and interactivity.

In Malaysia, the Terengganu Virtual Museum is a pioneering example, being the first of its kind in the country and the third in the world. It houses about 33,000 historical artefacts from the Terengganu Museum Board in digital form. However, Mohd Nasruddin cautioned that relying solely on virtual experiences risks depriving visitors of the chance to see and appreciate genuine artefacts. “It creates a huge gap between live and replicated heritage. Over time, society may end up inheriting only copies. There is a need for a balanced approach, one that ensures authenticity is not sacrificed for the sake of digital convenience.”

and dances as examples increasingly at risk when reproduced or artificially recreated through technology. “Technology allows us to mimic authenticity. This is a serious problem for intangible heritage, as it strips away the original spirit and cultural context. “Popular culture and social media content also tend to draw the younger generation towards modern trends over traditional values to the point where some can no longer tell what is truly authentic.” He said the rise of virtual museums, such as themed exhibitions at the National Museum and several under Perzim allows users to “visit” without ever seeing the original artefacts.

Meanwhile, National Heritage Department archaeologist Mohd Nasruddin Rahman said his department had conducted research at Bukit Melaka using advanced scanning and recording tools in collaboration with the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry. These innovations, he said, proved instrumental in capturing findings with greater accuracy, consistency and efficiency. Even so, he warned that excessive digitisation can weaken the authenticity and spirit of heritage. “By definition, heritage demands authenticity. When it becomes overly commercialised, especially for entertainment, its true value will be lost,” he said, citing traditional songs

Kembara Merdeka 2.0 to roll through Negeri Sembilan SEREMBAN: A total of 250 high powered motorcycles will participate in the Kembara Merdeka Akar Umbi 2.0 at Negeri Sembilan level, accompanied by state leadership and department heads, to welcome this year’s National Month on Aug 30. State senior exco Datuk Seri Jalaluddin Alias said the journey will pass through seven districts starting in Jempol and ending at Dataran Budaya Seri Menanti, Kuala Pilah with a culmination event on the eve of Merdeka which will also be enlivened by a fireworks display. He said the journey will be escorted by 50 cars involving a journey of more than 300km and at each stop, various activities will also be held, including donations to the needy in the districts involved. “We will gather as early as 8am in Jempol before moving towards Jelebu, then down to Seremban, Port Dickson, Rembau, Tampin and ending in Seri Menanti,” he told reporters when met recently. Meanwhile, the Jelebu MP said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi is also expected to join the journey in Port Dickson. He said the police traffic team will

assist to control traffic in several hotspots along the route of the Merdeka journey. “We expect more than 8,000 visitors to flood Seri Menanti to join in the celebration on the eve of Merdeka as well as to strengthen goodwill with each other.” – Bernama

FRIDAY | AUG 22, 2025

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Suspended Thai premier testifies in ouster case trial

Indonesian deputy minister arrested JAKARTA: Indonesia’s anti graft agency has arrested Deputy Manpower Minister Immanuel Ebenezer in connection with an investigation into alleged extortion, the agency’s deputy head said yesterday. Ebenezer, a member of President Prabowo Subianto’s party Gerindra, became the first member of Prabowo’s Cabinet to be arrested for graft. Prabowo, who was sworn in last October, has campaigned against corruption in and out of his government. Fitroh Rohcahyanto, the deputy head of Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission, said Immanuel’s arrest was related to an investigation into allegations of irregularities in the ministry’s issue of safety permits. He provided no other details. The Manpower Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment and it was not clear if the deputy minister has been charged with any offence. Reuters was not immediately able to contact Ebenezer’s lawyer. Last year, Indonesia was ranked at 99 out of 180 countries on global graft watchdog Transparency International’s corruption perception index. – Reuters Kim’s 2019 summit with President Donald Trump in Hanoi, Vietnam, collapsed because the two sides disagreed on what Pyongyang would concede in return for sanctions relief. Since then, North Korea has repeatedly said it will never give up its weapons and declared itself an “irreversible” nuclear state. And in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Pyongyang has drawn closer to Moscow. – AFP N. Korea has secret missile base near China: Report SEOUL: North Korea has built a secret military base near its border with China that may house Pyongyang’s newest long-range ballistic missiles, according to new research. The “undeclared” Sinpung-dong Missile Operating Base lies about 27km from the Chinese frontier, the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said in a report published on Wednesday. The facility in North Pyongan Province likely houses six to nine nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and their launchers, the study said. It said the weapons “pose a potential nuclear threat to East Asia and the continental United States”. North Korea has ramped up its nuclear weapons programme since a failed summit with the United States in 2019, and leader Kim Jong Un recently called for the “rapid expansion” of the diplomatically isolated nation’s nuclear capability. The report – which CSIS called the first in depth, open-source confirmation of Sinpung dong – said the base is one of about “15-20 ballistic missile bases, maintenance, support, missile storage and warhead storage facilities which North Korea has never declared”. The facility is “not known to have been the subject of any denuclearisation negotiations previously conducted between the United States and North Korea”, the study said. Citing their analysts’ current assessments, CSIS said the launchers and missiles could leave the base in times of crisis or war, link up with special units and conduct harder-to detect launches from other parts of the country. The base, along with others, “represent the primary components of what is presumed to be North Korea’s evolving ballistic missile strategy, and its expanding strategic-level nuclear deterrence and strike capabilities”, the report said.

Paetongtarn’s suspension, said he thought she acted in good faith during the call. “I believe there was nothing that affected the country’s security, and I trust her intention to keep Thailand out of conflict,” he told reporters. As well as precipitating a political crisis, the call – released in full online by Hun Sen – plunged Thai-Cambodian relations into turmoil. The border row erupted into the two sides’ deadliest military clashes in decades, with more than 40 people killed and 300,000 forced to flee their homes along the border. If the verdict goes against her, Paetongtarn would become the third Shinwatra to be ousted early as premier, after her father and aunt Yingluck – both thrown out in military coups. Thai politics has been driven for two decades by a battle between the conservative, pro-military, pro-royalist elite and the Shinawatra clan, whom they consider a threat to the kingdom’s traditional social order. Thaksin, 76, faces his own day of reckoning today when a Bangkok criminal court gives its verdict in his lese-majeste trial. He could face up to 15 years in jail if found guilty in the case, which relates to an interview he gave with South Korean media 10 years ago. – AFP

She answered judges’ questions for around an hour and a half, but the court has issued an order banning any reporting of what was said during the hearing. The case centres around her call in June with Hun Sen, Cambodia’s longtime ruler and father of its premier, which focused on the two neighbours’ then-brewing row over their disputed border. In the call, Paetongtarn addressed Hun Sen as “uncle” and referred to a Thai military commander as her “opponent”, sparking a furious reaction in Thailand. Conservative lawmakers accused her of kowtowing to Cambodia and undermining the military – a hugely powerful institution in Thailand. The main partner in Paetongtarn’s ruling coalition walked out in protest over her conduct in the leaked call, a move that almost collapsed her government. A group of senators filed a petition with the Constitutional Court arguing Paetongtarn should be removed from office for breaching constitutional provisions that require “evident integrity” and “ethical standards” among ministers. Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who has been in office since

o Judge issues gag order

BANGKOK: Thailand’s suspended prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra testified yesterday in a case seeking her removal from office over her handling of the kingdom’s border row with Cambodia. Paetongtarn, daughter of controversial but influential billionaire ex-prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is accused of failing in her duties by not standing up for the country properly in a call with former Cambodian leader Hun Sen, audio of which was leaked online. The Constitutional Court, which ousted her predecessor as prime minister a year ago in a separate ethics case, will rule next Friday on whether Paetongtarn should be thrown out of office. The court suspended Paetongtarn from office last month and summoned her to answer questions in the case yesterday – her 39th birthday. Dressed in a black business suit, Paetongtarn smiled and greeted reporters as she arrived at court in Bangkok with Prommin Lertsuridej, a top adviser who is named in the case with her.

Paetongtarn leaving the Constitutional Court after testifying. – REUTERSPIC

Myanmar unveils new election details YANGON: Myanmar released details of its long awaited December election yesterday, saying the first voting phase would cover about a third of the nation’s townships despite conflict around the country. timetable, but a notice published in state media said the first round of voting will take place in 102 of Myanmar’s 330 townships.

voting in just three of its 17 townships on the first polling day. Northern Sagaing region, a stronghold of pro-democracy guerillas, will see ballots cast in about a third of its jurisdictions. The government has not yet announced the dates of subsequent polling rounds nor confirmed which townships will be included in them. Myanmar’s last election in 2020 saw Suu Kyi’s party win by a landslide before the military ousted her government. The government has introduced penalties of up to 10 years for critics of the poll. – AFP

They include all townships in the sprawling and sparsely-populated capital Naypyidaw and around a quarter of those covering the commercial capital and largest city Yangon – home to seven million people. But the notice, printed in the Global New Light of Myanmar , suggested more limited ambitions in areas where the military is battling myriad opponents pledging to block the vote. Western Rakhine state, which is nearly entirely controlled by the Arakan Army, will see

The military-led government announced this week that polls would be held in phases, starting on Dec 28, pushing the vote as a salve for a war that has consumed the country since the generals seized power in a 2021 coup. But vast tracts of the country are outside its control and democratic figurehead Aung San Suu Kyi remains jailed. The government has yet to set a full election