4/09/2025

‘Ayah Jalanan’ dedicates retirement to helping homeless

THURSDAY SEPT 4, 2025

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Ex-banker embarks on journey to change lives of people living on the edge.

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

Report on — page 4

SCAN ME No. 8903 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195)

Full BRICS membership that Malaysia seeks offers access to new markets and stronger bargaining power but requires careful diplomacy to avoid Western backlash and over-reliance on China: Analysts Calculated risk Report on h page 3

Some of the foreigners arrested over various offences, including overstaying, lack of valid documents and possession of unrecognised cards or passes during an immigration operation conducted in Jalan Bedara, Bukit Bintang on Tuesday night. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

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Dept also cripples Bangladeshi-run passport forgery syndicate in KL. 770 nabbed in immigration blitz

‘Message of commemoration event in Tianjin, China, especially relevant in today’s volatile global landscape where instability persists and international order continues to weaken.’ Victory Parade reminder nations must defend, uphold sovereignty: Anwar

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THURSDAY | SEPT 4, 2025

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‘Victory Day’ a reminder for nations to uphold sovereignty

No need to join SCO for now, says minister BEIJING: Malaysia sees no necessity to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) for now, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. Instead, Malaysia should focus on strengthening Asean while exploring opportunities to further enhances its engagement and cooperation with the SCO, he said. “We already have Asean and Asean needs to be empowered further aside from establishing a better relationship with the SCO,” he told the Malaysian media delegation covering Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s four-day working visit to China, here. Mohamad accompanied Anwar on the visit, which covered Beijing and Tianjin. Mohamad said Anwar was invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the SCO Summit, where he also delivered remarks at the SCO Plus Summit. “The prime minister was invited as a special guest and was given the opportunity to speak at the forum. “For the time being, we do not see a need to become a member state of the SCO,” he said. Established in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is an intergovernmental international organisation aimed at encouraging effective cooperation among member states in various spheres, including politics, economy, regional security and stability, science and technology, energy and transport. It now comprises 10 members, namely China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India, Pakistan, Iran and Belarus, representing over three billion people or about 45% of the world’s population. The combined Gross Domestic Product of the organisation in 2023 accounted for approximately 32% of the world’s total. – Bernama Anwar expresses sadness over Afghan quake KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed sadness over the earthquakes that have struck Afghanistan, claiming many lives and leaving families in grief and hardship. In a Facebook post yesterday, Anwar said he was also deeply pained to learn of the severe landslides in Sudan, which have claimed more than a thousand lives. “My thoughts and prayers are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Malaysia stands in solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and Sudan,” he said. Bakhtar News Agency reported the death toll from the recent 6.0 magnitude earthquake in Kunar Province, eastern Afghanistan, has risen to 1,411, while 3,124 people were also injured. In Sudan, more than 1,000 people lost their lives in a landslide triggered by heavy rains in a village in the Central Darfur State of western Sudan. – Bernama

He also met with the China Semiconductor Industry Association and Matrix, with discussions expected to unlock export opportunities worth RM2 billion over the next two years, reinforcing Malaysia’s role in the semiconductor industry. Anwar further held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkmenistan, the prime minister of Egypt and leaders from Pakistan, Cambodia and Nepal. The conflicts in Gaza and Myanmar were among the key issues discussed. He stressed the need for reform at the United Nations, echoing Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ call for a more democratic and inclusive system. Anwar was among foreign leaders who joined Xi at the Victory Parade at Tiananmen Square.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke had told the Dewan Rakyat last month that further discussions with China and the main contractor, China Communications Construction Co Ltd, were still required as the project is ongoing and the Rantau Panjang extension would need to be incorporated into the wider package. Anwar also confirmed that Li will represent China at the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur at the end of October. During his four-day visit, Anwar held bilateral talks with Xi and Li, focusing on cooperation in infrastructure, ports, artificial intelligence, education and trade. The trip secured potential investments worth RM905 million in the chemical and technology sectors, along with possible exports worth RM180 million through e-commerce giant JD.com.

He said the proposal remains at a preliminary stage, with a technical team tasked to review costs, financing and development plans. Anwar added that the matter was also raised in his meetings yesterday with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. “The proposal is towards that direction, about 20 to 25km to Rantau Panjang near the Thai border,” he said. Anwar, who is also finance minister, said he hopes the project can be realised as part of efforts to lift the area’s economy. “The stretch from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, particularly around Rantau Panjang, remains relatively underdeveloped. “We hope that with this and a station there, the development and business ecosystem can be improved,” he said.

PETALING JAYA: The Victory Day Parade hosted by China to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II is a reminder that nations must defend and uphold their sovereignty, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He said the message is especially relevant in today’s volatile global landscape, where instability persists and the international order continues to weaken. Citing the atrocities in Gaza, Anwar noted that Israel’s assault on Palestinians shows how international norms are being blatantly disregarded. “For me, this commemoration is a reminder that every nation must remain free, independent and sovereign, and that such independence must always be respected. “The post-war embrace of peace, as well as China’s struggle against colonialism and oppression, should serve as lessons for today’s generation, particularly within our region,” he told Malaysian media at the conclusion of his working visit to Beijing and Tianjin this week. On the domestic front, Anwar said the government is considering extending the East Coast Rail Link from Kota Bharu to Rantau Panjang, near the Thai border, to spur economic activity in the underdeveloped border town. o Message especially relevant in today’s volatile global landscape, where instability persists and international order continues to weaken, says PM Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

Chinese militia members march during a military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two, in Beijing, China yesterday. – REUTERSPIC

China supports accelerating Malaysia’s BRICS membership BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping has pledged his full support for accelerating Malaysia’s full membership in the BRICS bloc. currently made up of 11 countries, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and Egypt. Malaysia became a partner country of the bloc in early 2025. quick action can this special relationship have a more meaningful impact on the people of both countries,“ he said. Initiative (BRI), which strengthens global connectivity, as well as the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) conceived during this time’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit.

He added that he highly appreciates the sincerity of the friendship expressed by President Xi and the respect given to Malaysia. “ Alhamdulillah , President Xi and I are in agreement to continue strengthening this friendship based on trust, respect, and sincerity. Even though we are a small country, confidence, mutual trust and shared determination can become a great strength to shape a more peaceful, just, and prosperous future,“ he said. Anwar also expressed support for the proposals and ideas championed by Xi, especially the Belt and Road

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this development was conveyed by Xi during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People here on Tuesday. “President Xi stated his full support for accelerating Malaysia’s participation as a full member of BRICS. “This is a great honor and a sign of support for our country to continue playing an important role on the world stage,“ he told Malaysian media covering his four-day working visit to China. BRICS, established in 2009, is

Earlier, the Prime Minister made a courtesy call on Xi, where both leaders discussed efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Commenting on the meeting, Anwar said the meeting reinforced ties that have been in place since Xi’s state visit to Malaysia last April, during which 31 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and agreements were signed. “I stated that this relationship must be translated with the immediate implementation of the matters that have been agreed upon. Only with

He also congratulated Xi on the successful and historic organisation of the SCO Summit. China remains Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, with bilateral trade reaching US$106 billion last year, reflecting the closeness of this relationship. “I stated to President Xi about Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening high-value exports such as E&E, aerospace, medical, pharmaceutical, as well as oil and gas,“ said Anwar. - Bernama

THURSDAY | SEPT 4, 2025

3 BRICS membership timely shift in global order for M’sia

‘No criminal elements or abuse of power in MyKiosk’ KUALA LUMPUR: The Housing and Local Government Ministry has stressed that no criminal elements or abuse of power was found in the implementation of the MyKiosk initiative based on the results of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission’s (MACC) investigation. Deputy Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said MACC conducted the probe after receiving complaints and the ministry had handed over all relevant documents to MACC on May 22 as a sign of the ministry’s transparency and integrity. “The investigation results announced on July 3 found no criminal elements or abuse of power. It only proposed several improvements in terms of governance,” she said at the oral question-and-answer in the Dewan Negara yesterday. She was responding to Senator Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman, who wanted to know the results of MACC’s probe into the governance of the MyKiosk initiative and also from Senator Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz and Senator Husin Ismail. According to Aiman Athirah, for 2023, a total of RM50 million was allocated for the implementation of MyKiosk 1.0, involving 3,189 units at a cost of RM48.18 million, while for 2024, RM100 million was allotted for MyKiosk 2.0, involving 4.054 units worth RM98.75 million. “So far, the occupancy rate for MyKiosk 1.0 has reached 94%, while for MyKiosk 2.0 is at 89%. As for the unoccupied units, factors such as location suitability, the lack of basic infrastructure and uncompleted sites have been identified as the main causes.” She said a task force has been set up to scrutinise the locations and speed up occupancy, besides conducting integrated monitoring and joint engagement sessions. Aiman Athirah said the ministry has also introduced a monitoring system, based on the “traffic light” method, to evaluate the performance of local authorities by initially giving full marks as a form of encouragement. She explained that the ceiling cost for one MyKiosk 1.0 unit is RM15,000, while for MyKiosk 2.0 is RM25,000 per unit with new specifications. She added that the ministry also allowed local authorities to relocate the kiosks to more strategic locations in public areas, if necessary, since the MyKiosk has been designed to be mobile and to meet local requirements.

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

o Joining bloc offers economic leverage but may intensify US-China rivalry, requires careful diplomacy to avoid Western backlash: Analysts

siding with China and Russia. “This could trigger diplomatic or trade pressures, although Malaysia will likely stress its non-aligned stance to balance ties.” He described Malaysia’s tilt toward BRICS as ‘both a necessity and a risk,’ offering access to new markets and stronger bargaining power but also requiring careful diplomacy to avoid Western backlash and overreliance on China. Economist Prof Geoffrey Williams said the economic rationale was strong, given the bloc’s scale and potential. “BRICS is a large trade and investment area with a population of 3.2 billion and GDP of US$26 trillion (RM110.98 trillion). “It offers Malaysia access to a vast consumer market and possible inflows of investment, while also creating opportunities for Malaysian companies abroad.” Williams stressed that as a small, open economy, Malaysia needs to maintain a wide spread of trade and investment partners. “Flexibility is important and BRICS offers that. Additional trade and investment will also increase demand for the ringgit and support it over the medium to long term.” On possible US retaliation, he added that tariffs could be a concern, but Malaysia’s exposure to Washington is limited. “Recent FDI (foreign direct investment) deals are mostly with US multinationals, not the government. The key is for Malaysia to remain non-aligned and independent, focusing on trade rather than political integration. “It’s about securing flexibility in a shifting global economy.” On Tuesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced China’s support for Malaysia’s full BRICS membership to be expedited. He described the endorsement as a great honour for Malaysia, enabling the nation to continue playing a significant role on the world stage. BRICS currently comprises 10 countries – Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. Malaysia became a partner country in the bloc late last year. China has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years. In 2024, bilateral trade reached RM484.12 billion, representing 16.8% of Malaysia’s total global trade of RM2.9 trillion.

PETALING JAYA: China’s strong endorsement of Malaysia’s bid for full BRICS membership presents a major opportunity to expand the country’s global influence and economic ties. But analysts caution it also places Malaysia squarely in the middle of intensifying United States–China rivalry, demanding careful diplomacy. Nusantara Academy of Strategic Research senior fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan said pursuing a BRICS membership was timely, given the shifting global order and US President Donald Trump’s unpredictable economic policies. “Malaysia made the decision to move closer to BRICS before Trump returned to office, but it looks like the right call now. Trump has been using tariffs to threaten smaller

any single superpower.” International Islamic University Malaysia international law expert Assoc Prof Dr Mohd Yazid Zul Kepli agreed that China’s endorsement was a major boost but warned it could be seen in Washington as Malaysia leaning closer to Beijing. “The endorsement is significant because it comes from the most influential member of BRICS. It boosts our chances of joining, but in the context of US–China rivalry, it also risks straining ties with Washington.” Yazid noted that if Trump ramps up anti-BRICS rhetoric, Malaysia’s membership could be read as

nations, so it is important that countries like Malaysia, as part of the Global South, have a platform where their voices can be heard,” he told theSun . Azmi said BRICS offers Malaysia economic and geopolitical leverage. “With China backing us, it shows how close the relationship has become. As the Asean chair, Malaysia benefits from this support regionally and globally. At the same time, it doesn’t mean we are discarding the US. “We will still trade with the US, but we must also diversify into new markets and platforms. This shows we are not under the umbrella of

KLIA aerotrain resumes 24-hour operations PUTRAJAYA: The aerotrain service at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has resumed round the-clock operations following the completion of scheduled maintenance works. between midnight and 5am daily without disrupting passenger connectivity. Airside shuttle buses ensured seamless travel between the main terminal building and the satellite building during the period. “The exercise was conducted to fine-tune system responsiveness and reliability. The signalling software has also been updated during the scheduled works. Aerotrain service at KLIA has resumed round-the-clock operations following the completion of scheduled maintenance works. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN To a supplementary question from Abdul Halim on the differences between the old and new version of MyKiosk, Aiman Athirah said the latest model is equipped with 100-watt solar panels (50 watts previously), powder-coated walls, a fan, a weather and waterproofing system and an increased coverage angle. The increased cost is in line with the enhanced specifications, she added. – Bernama Ministry recognises men as victims of violence, pledges greater protection KUALA LUMPUR: The Women, Family and Community Department on domestic violence cases, Bernama reported. Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said in a statement yesterday that the Aug 18-31 maintenance was carried out “The aerotrain is a vital link in KLIA’s operations. “We will continue to invest in infrastructure that delivers greater reliability, safety and comfort for all travellers.” Malaysia Airports operates 39 airports in Malaysia and one international airport in Istanbul, Turkiye. KLIA is among the region’s preferred aviation hubs. - Bernama

Insol on the societal stigma against men who choose to become homemakers, Noraini said the government through the National Population and Family Development Board has implemented various awareness programmes to promote shared responsibility in households.

Negara yesterday. She said in domestic violence cases, investigations are carried out by the Social Welfare Department under the Domestic Violence Act 1994, which applies to all victims regardless of gender. To a question from Senator Rita Sarimah Patrick

Its deputy minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad said the ministry recognises that men are also at risk of becoming victims of violence and deserve appropriate protection and support. She said there are two different sets of statistics issued by the police and the Social Welfare

“Despite the differences, we acknowledge that men are also at risk of violence and deserve protection and support,” she said in response to a question from Senator Datuk Nelson Angang in the Dewan

Development Ministry has pledged to strengthen efforts to address violence against men, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse, which remains underreported despite being increasingly evident.

THURSDAY | SEPT 4, 2025

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On mission to transform lives of underprivileged

Rapid life expectancy

improvement after Merdeka

KUALA LUMPUR: When Malaysia gained independence in 1957, a newborn boy could expect to live about 55.8 years, while a newborn girl about 58.2 years. This was the mortality rate of that time. By 2024, those figures had risen significantly: a newborn boy could expect to live about 70 years, and a newborn girl 77.8 years, according to data from the Statistics Department. The gap between male and female life expectancy has remained consistent, with women living several years longer on average. (Life expectancy at birth is the average number of years a newborn is expected to live if today’s death rates at each age stay the same.) The sharp improvement seen in the first few decades after independence was not only rapid but also historically significant. A 1984 paper in the Journal of Public Health Policy noted that from 1957 to 1976, overall life expectancy in Malaysia increased from 57 to 69 years. Malaysia achieved this progress in just 20 years compared with the United States, which took 27 years (from 1915 to 1941) to reach a similar improvement. Better healthcare services, vaccination programmes, improved nutrition and public health measures all contributed to the longer lifespans Malaysians continue to benefit from today. However, this extra longevity has not always translated into healthier lives. A 2024 study found that while Malaysians are living almost 20 years beyond 60, the proportion of those years spent in good health has barely shifted. Non-communicable diseases account for 72% of premature deaths, reflecting new challenges that come with ageing. Yet Malaysia’s health journey since Merdeka also shows what is possible when the nation comes together. In just one generation, it transformed life expectancy from barely above 55 years to well into the 70s – a leap that once seemed out of reach. As the country moves beyond its 68th National Day, the next milestone is clear – to add not only years to life, but life to years. Just as independence opened the door to progress, today’s Malaysia has the chance to define its future by ensuring that its people can age with vitality, dignity and hope. – Bernama For Abbe, unity is as central as compassion. “I’ve helped everyone. I once helped an Indian man in need. I also recalled visiting a Chinese family’s flat. They had teenage children, but not even a bag of rice to cook. “They were shocked I even came. But that’s what we’re meant to do. Merdeka means we’re all equal. We share this land, this life.” – By IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE

o Former banker dedicates life to helping homeless by providing food and ensuring individuals ‘survive and thrive’

Ű BY IKHWAN ZULKAFLEE newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: Amid the bustle of the capital, where traffic snarls meet towering high-rises, one man has quietly dedicated his life to transforming the lives of the homeless, one meal and one act of compassion at a time. He is Azhan Adnan, 57, better known as “Ayah Jalanan” (Father of the Streets), a former investment banker who walked away from corporate life to serve those living on the margins. Fondly called Abbe, he built a career in finance before venturing into logging, aviation and mining. After retiring in 2016, he said he had “enough for his own life” but realised his work was not done. What began as his wife’s Friday routine of sending food to a mosque, soon evolved into something bigger. “After three weeks, I realised the food wasn’t reaching those who needed it most. I asked my wife to cook for 100 people. She did, and I took the meals straight to the homeless,” he said. “I began searching for the homeless in Chow Kit. Once I saw how they lived, I couldn’t unsee it,” he told theSun during an interview under a bridge near the Pasar Seni LRT station, where a group of people sleeps rough. That night, Abbe and his team had just finished distributing packets of nasi bungkus to about a dozen men and women. Since then, he has made it a point to provide food to the needy every Friday without fail. “The joy of hearing them call out ‘Ayah’s here!’ when I arrive with hot meals keeps me going,” he said. But food was only the start. Abbe said many of the homeless came to

Homeless people who seek shelter under a bridge near the Pasar Seni LRT Station are among those who received packets of nasi bungkus . For Abbe (inset), the motivation comes from faith. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH THESUN

unemployed. With Abbe’s help, he finally returned home and is now working again on his family’s rubber plantation. “It’s not laziness. It’s lost direction. Sometimes, all they need is someone to remind them they still matter, they are still people,” Abbe said. The high cost of living has also forced many into homelessness. Some earn up to RM120 a day through odd jobs, but with room rentals averaging RM600 to RM700 a month, the streets become their only option. Determined to address deeper issues, Abbe established Pertubuhan Jejak Jalanan to help families overlooked by aid agencies. “If we don’t have an official organisation, we can’t bring their issues to the government,” he said. Through the NGO, he has linked families with the right agencies, resulting in many securing financial assistance. His advocacy also prompted the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council to review its housing aid. “Many were living in appalling

Kuala Lumpur with hope of finding work, only to see their plans fall apart. “Let me share a story from four years ago. “I was driving near Masjid India during heavy rain when I saw an old man shivering by the roadside. He had only been homeless for two or three nights,” he said. The man, from Terengganu, had travelled to the capital in search of work but failed to secure a job. “His money ran out and he had nowhere to go. I gave him some cash for a bus ticket home.” Abbe also recalled a guitar repairman from Baling, Kedah, who had been scammed. He lost everything and ended up on the streets. “They don’t want to be homeless. They came with hope. But when things fall apart, some are too ashamed to go home empty handed. So they stay here, stranded.” Abbe recently helped a man return to Perlis after 10 months of sleeping rough. The man had lost his factory job in Shah Alam, tried his luck in Johor and Kuala Lumpur but remained

rented rooms despite the council paying RM500 to 600 monthly. I raised my concerns, and now the council plans to rent whole houses at RM800, giving families safety, space and dignity. “There are also plans to support small businesses so they can earn sustainable incomes,” he said. His work has since expanded beyond Chow Kit to Kelantan and Sabah. In Sandakan, he found children with no shelter, no citizenship and no access to school. Moved by their plight, he secured a building to be turned into a learning centre with a dormitory. Classes in reading, writing, arithmetic, Quranic studies and basic living skills will begin soon, with ustaz volunteering their time. “This isn’t just about feeding people. It’s about dignity. Let’s not just help them survive, let’s help them thrive,” he said. For Abbe, the motivation comes from faith. “There’s a hadith – every bite someone takes from food you give earns you 40 rewards. That’s what I hold on to,” he said.

Independence means ensuring ‘no one is left behind’ KUALA LUMPUR: What is the meaning of Merdeka if those around us are still struggling to survive? inspired him most, Abbe recalled a father battling drug addiction who was jailed, leaving two sons to fend for themselves. teenagers to join a spiritual development programme, paying RM1,400 for their participation. “Now, just three months later, he recites Al-Fatihah perfectly. “He now wakes up every day at 4.45am to perform iktikaf (spiritual retreat) at the mosque – something even those with comfort and stability often find difficult to maintain.”

This is the principle held close to the heart of Azhan Adnan, fondly known as Abbe, who has spent the past five years dedicating his life to helping the homeless and underprivileged. To him, independence is not about parades or fireworks, but about ensuring no one is left behind. When asked about the story that

“There’s one that really moved me, a father who went to prison, leaving his sons to themselves. One of the boys was just 18. He couldn’t recite Al Fatihah . “Didn’t even know how to pray,” he told theSun . Rather than judge, Abbe saw potential. He encouraged the

The teenager is in a 10-month programme that combines spiritual growth with vocational training, including roti canai making, barbering and farming. “They don’t just train and leave. They’ll make sure he’s set up his business, with full support,” Abbe said.

“His face glows with light. His mother told me her son looks brighter now. “Before this, his face was dull. Now he prays five times a day and looks glowing,” Abbe said. The older brother’s discipline also impressed him.

THURSDAY | SEPT 4, 2025

5

Accidental fall, push unlikely in Zara Qairina case: Expert

Call for revival of earthquake committee

KUALA and Geoscience Department director-general Datuk Zamri Ramli said a technical committee on earthquakes should be reactivated to coordinate studies and reassess seismic risks in Malaysia following the recent tremors in Johor. He said the committee, coordinated under the National Disaster Management Agency, could review existing data to support more accurate studies and action plans. He proposed that the committee include representatives from the department, the Malaysian Meteorological Department, the Survey and Mapping Department, the Public Works Department, academics and professional bodies. “This committee is important to refine existing data on tectonic activity and potentially active fault lines.” The committee was last active in 2020. He said the series of tremors in Segamat was an unexpected sign, caused by tectonic activity that released internal stress along a fault zone. He added that Malaysia’s old fault lines, estimated to be between 60 million and 200 million years old, must be re-examined. “The focus would be on reviewing historical fault characteristics and determining their slip rates and lengths to estimate possible earthquake magnitudes.” He emphasised the importance of microzonation studies and updated fault mapping, adding that earthquake impacts could vary depending on location, even with similar magnitudes. The department has begun fieldwork in Johor, starting in Segamat before extending to other areas identified as vulnerable. Zamri also said several parts of Malaysia face potential risk, in addition to the transboundary effects of earthquakes from neighbouring countries. He highlighted the role of the Survey and Mapping Department’s geodesy expertise in determining whether fault movement rates have changed after the tremors. – Bernama Secretary remanded for suspected abuse of power MALACCA: A secretary of the academic staff association at a public university has been remanded for five days to assist in investigations into allegations of abusing his position to use association funds totalling RM84,500 last year. The remand order, which starts today until Sept 7, was issued by Magistrate Uthman Abd Ghani after an application was made by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) at the Ayer Keroh Magistrate’s Court yesterday. According to sources, the 47-year-old man allegedly used the association’s money to pay legal costs and court order costs on behalf of his wife. “The suspect appeared to give a statement at the state MACC office at 5.10pm on Tuesday before being detained for a remand application today,” Uthman said. Malacca MACC director Datuk Adi Supian Shafie confirmed the arrest. The case is being investigated under section 23 of the MACC Act 2009. – Bernama LUMPUR: Minerals

She also said the brain had decomposed and could not be assessed. However, the lower left forearm, wrist, hand and finger showed bruising with a distal radius fracture and wrist dislocation. Other injuries included bruises and fractures in both ankles and feet, with comminuted fractures of the tibia and calcaneum (heel bone), as well as vertebral fractures, muscle hematoma and pelvic tissue damage. “These injuries were consistent with findings in her scans and medical records.” She told the court that Zara was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in a critical state at 4.38am on July 16, unconscious with signs of severe brain injury.

more than three-quarters of her height and above her centre of gravity, making it unlikely she accidentally fell or was pushed from a standing position.” Hiu said it was possible the teenager climbed onto the concrete base, crossed over the metal rails and stood on the railing, Bernama reported. She said she visited the scene at SMKA Tun Datu Mustapha Limauan in Kinarut on Aug 2 before reviewing the victim’s medical records, CT scans and radiographs. She testified that the body was in a moderate to advanced state of decomposition consistent with burial in soil, though tissues remained intact enough for examination.

KUALA LUMPUR: The Coroner’s Court heard yesterday that Zara Qairina Mahathir had likely not fallen accidentally or been pushed from a standing position next to her hostel corridor’s railing. Queen Elizabeth Hospital forensic o Differences in height, centre of gravity contributing factors in conclusion

pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, who conducted the post-mortem, said the third-floor railing measured 118cm in height, while Zara Qairina was 154cm tall. “The difference is 36cm. The railing height is 770 foreigners held, syndicate busted in Immigration ops A sutured laceration was found at the back of the head, but there were no skull or facial fractures. The hearing before the coroner, Sessions Court Judge Amir Shah Amir Hassan, resumes tomorrow.

Ű BY FAIZ RUZMAN newsdesk@thesundaily.com

KUALA LUMPUR: The Immigration Department mounted two major operations this week, rounding up 770 undocumented foreigners in Bukit Bintang and crippling a Bangladeshi-run passport forgery syndicate in the capital. Immigration enforcement director Basri Othman said the Bukit Bintang raid, carried out between 7.30pm and 10.30pm, was launched after three weeks of public complaints about large groups of foreigners gathering at Jalan Bedara. “Enforcement officers found an online gambling premises equipped with a CCTV monitoring system. When the authorities broke down the door, seven foreigners were busy engaged in online gambling, unaware of the presence of the personnel,” he told Bernama. A total of 2,445 individuals were screened, 1,600 foreigners and 845 locals, with 770 foreigners arrested for various immigration offences, including overstaying, lacking valid documents and possessing unrecognised cards or passes. Those detained included 377 Bangladeshi, 235 Myanmar, 72 Nepalese, 58 Indian and 17 Indonesian men, two women, as well as nine additional individuals of different nationalities. The detainees, aged 21 to 65, were taken to Putrajaya for screening before being taken to the Bukit Jalil and Lenggeng depots for investigation. Basri said they would be investigated under the Immigration Act 1959/63, the Passport Act 1966 and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007. He reminded employers not to harbour illegal immigrants, adding that action would be taken against those who did. In a separate operation, the department dismantled a forgery syndicate run by Bangladeshi nationals that specialised in producing counterfeit passports for

Zakaria said the syndicate supplied fake passports to workers at risk of failing mandatory medical checks. – FAIZ RUZMAN/THESUN

RM2,100 in cash and a vehicle believed to have been used by the group. He also said the syndicate supplied fake passports to workers at risk of failing mandatory medical checks. For a fee of RM150 to RM250, unfit workers used the forged documents to pass screenings under false identities before discarding them. Investigations showed the syndicate, active for about three months, could produce counterfeit passports within two days. While most clients were Bangladeshi nationals, the group also relied on runners and employers to source customers. night, I could not sleep at all. I kept thinking this is truly an answered prayer for me and my family.” He added that he plans to settle his housing loan, clear his debts and save the rest for his children’s future. Two other EZ-Bet winners from Selangor also shared portions of the jackpot, pocketing RM2.1 million and RM3.3 million respectively. Both had also chosen family-related numbers.

medical screenings. Its director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban said three Bangladeshi men, aged between 19 and 41, were arrested in raids at Jalan Loke Yew and Jalan Razak Mansion in Kuala Lumpur, following three weeks of intelligence gathering. “During the operation, we seized 16 passports, nine genuine and seven forged, along with forgery equipment including a computer, printers, passport pages and covers, embossing tools, cutters and coloured threads.” Also seized were 133 unfinished passport booklets for Myanmar, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Indonesia, 11 mobile phones, children to the STM Lottery head office to collect his winnings. He said he decided to try his luck with the jackpot after overhearing another customer purchasing a Lucky Pick ticket. Instead of opting for Lucky Pick, he combined his family members’ birthdates, 3, 6, 9, 12, 27 and 34, which turned out to be the winning combination. “I could not believe my eyes when I saw all six numbers matched. I was stunned. That

Man takes home RM73 million in jackpot winnings

Ű BY THE SUN TEAM newsdesk@thesundaily.com

PETALING JAYA: Two Toto players from Johor struck gold in the same week, winning a combined RM89.2 million in jackpot prizes. A 53-year-old technician who works in Singapore claimed the lion’s share, RM73.1 million, from the RM78.5 million Supreme Toto 6/58 jackpot drawn on Aug 20. He was accompanied by his wife and

THURSDAY | SEPT 4, 2025

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MIRI: As the sun begins to set in the rainforest, the sky above Mulu National Park transforms into a natural stage as thousands of bats stream out of the mouth of the Deer Cave. The animals form black waves in the evening sky in a unique phenomenon known as the “bat exodus”, which takes place almost every evening. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, it is not just a sight to behold but also an extraordinary experience, a perfectly orchestrated spectacle of nature. The park was recognised as a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2000 for its geological features and high biodiversity. Deer Cave, one many caves in the park, is said to be one of the largest limestone caves in the world and home to millions of bats. To reach the bat exodus viewing area, visitors must undertake a three-kilometre plank walk that crosses a peat swamp, stream and limestone outcrop, lasting about 45 minutes before arriving at an open area near the entrance to Deer Cave. A group of social media influencers, as well as Bernama, had the chance to witness the phenomenon firsthand during a familiarisation trip to the park organised by the Sarawak Tourism Board in collaboration with Gaya Travel Media. Guide Richie Philip, 35, told Bernama the cave is home to an estimated two to three million bats from 12 species, with the wrinkled-lipped bat colony being the most dominant, creating striking formations as they leave in search of food. “They usually come out between 5pm and 6pm. Sometimes they do not emerge if it rains heavily. But when conditions are right, the bats pour out in an unbroken stream, swirling through the sky. It is truly an incredible sight.” He said before their mass exit, the bats circle the cave entrance in spiral or S-shaped formations as a natural strategy to confuse predators such as eagles that often “patrol” the area. He added that the event occurs only at Deer Cave due to its main chamber, which

Mulu ‘bat exodus’ unique natural phenomenon

o Animals not only major tourist attraction, but also essential to surrounding ecosystem: Expert rises more than 100m high and is partly illuminated by sunlight, unobstructed by surrounding trees. “The bats circle inside the chamber before flying out as they wait for other groups to join them so they feel safer. “At the same time, this formation also confuses the eagles waiting outside, making it harder for the predators to catch them.” Richie also said the event could last several minutes, forming what looks like black clouds across the sky, with the bats flying at speeds of up to 70km per hour for as far as 50km before returning to their habitat the next morning. He said the animals are not only a major tourist attraction but also vital to the cave ecosystem as their guano (excrement) is a food source for numerous insect species and small fish. “Without the bats, the cave’s food chain would collapse.” He also advised visitors to remain silent when watching the phenomenon, as noise could cause the bats to fly higher, dampening the sound of their flapping wings.

Richie said the event could last several minutes, forming what looks like black clouds across the sky. – BERNAMAPIC

More than 200 trees planted under community initiative KUALA LUMPUR: More than 200 trees have been planted across Bangsar over the past two years under a community initiative led by Global Institute for Tomorrow CEO Chandran Nair, aimed at restoring greenery and raising awareness about climate change. “Urban temperatures have risen considerably in the last 40 years. “Thus in some areas citizens are taking action, encouraged by the support of local MPs and authorities. An obvious course of action is to plant trees where old trees were cut down due to age or disease and safety reasons.” frangipanis and coconut palms sourced from the Free Tree Society and Chandran’s own nursery in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan. Each sapling is tagged with a bilingual message urging the public to protect the plants and “take care of Malaysia”.

environmental stewardship from a young age. He added that while the authorities are aware of the efforts, stronger measures could be taken to tighten rules on indiscriminate cutting and pruning of trees, and to ensure replanting is mandatory. “They could ensure that house owners understand that trees outside their homes are public assets and they have no right to cut or poison them.” – Bernama

He said the initiative has drawn positive response from the public and hopes it could serve as a model for other neighbourhoods and schools to instil civic responsibility and

He said the initiative focused on planting trees in areas where old ones had been removed due to age, disease or safety concerns.

Among the species planted are African tulips, bunga tanjong , beruas , gelam ,

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Acting Thai premier moves to dissolve parliament

Implement anti-scam measures, Meta told SINGAPORE: Police here have ordered Meta to implement anti scam measures against advertisements, accounts, profiles and business pages impersonating key government office holders on its social media network Facebook to combat scams. The company could be fined up to S$1 million (RM3.28 million) if it fails to comply as part of the first such order under the Online Criminal Harms Act, which came into force in February last year. “We are issuing (the order) to Meta because Facebook is the top platform used by scammers for such scams, and police have assessed that more decisive action is required,” Minister of State for Home Affairs Goh Pei Ming said in a speech yesterday. Meta did not respond to a request for comment. In August, the Home Affairs Ministry found that more than a third of all e-commerce scams reported last year were perpetrated on Facebook. It also rated Facebook Marketplace as the weakest among six e-commerce marketplaces in terms of anti-scam features deployed. Police statistics released in August showed that scams that involved the impersonation of government officials almost tripled to 1,762 cases in the first half of last year, from 589 cases in the same period a year ago. A total of S$126.5 million was lost to this type of scam in the same period, up 88% from the S$67.2 million lost a year ago. – Reuters YAMUNA BREACHES DANGER MARK NEW DELHI: Widespread flooding has hit several parts of northern India, officials said, with more thunderstorms forecast as 10,000 people were evacuated from river banks in Delhi. The Central Water Commission said the swollen Yamuna had breached its danger mark on Tuesday in Delhi. Media reported that nearly 10,000 people had been evacuated to relief camps set up along the main highways as a precautionary measure for those living in low-lying areas. – Reuters PRABOWO FLOATS SEA WALL PLAN JAKARTA: President Prabowo Subianto and President Xi Jinping discussed a plan to build a wall along the northern coastline of Java, which Jakarta calls the Giant Sea Wall project. Prabowo made a surprise attendance at China’s military parade. Prabowo’s government has previously said the wall project would take 15 to 20 years to build with a total cost of US$80 billion (RM338 billion). – Reuters

BANGKOK: The leader of Thailand’s Bhumjaithai Party said yesterday he had enough votes to become prime minister after winning over the biggest group in parliament, as the ruling party moved to block his path by petitioning the king to approve a snap election. There has been a dramatic scramble for power in Thailand since Friday’s sacking of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra by a court, with Pheu Thai, the long dominant ruling party of the Shinawatra political dynasty, clinging on desperately to avert a humiliating fall from grace. Pheu Thai, the populist political juggernaut that won five of the past six elections, has been struggling to firm up a fragile coalition that has been haemorrhaging support as Bhumjaithai, a smaller renegade party that quit the alliance in June, embarked on a spree of dealmaking to challenge for the premiership. Days of political deadlock looked to have been broken early yesterday when the progressive opposition People’s Party, which holds nearly a third of lower house seats, announced it would back Bhumjaithai’s leader, Anutin Charnvirakul, in return for his promise to dissolve parliament within four months. “We know that the formation of this government that will proceed from now on, we know that the People’s Party has cooperated and made sacrifices in finding a solution for Thailand during a period of crises,” Anutin told reporters. The prime minister’s dismissal for an ethics violation was the latest twist in a tumultuous, two-decade grudge match among Thailand’s rival elites. o Ruling party seeks snap polls

Anutin (right) and Kla Tham Party adviser Thammanat Prompao read an agreement during a press conference, as the People’s Party announced it will back the Bhumjaithai Party to form a government. – REUTERSPIC

establishment platform but was blocked from power by conservative lawmakers allied with the royalist military. The People’s Party will not join Anutin’s government, but has guaranteed him support of its 143 lawmakers, which would help him pass the required threshold of 247 votes, or half of the lower house, to become prime minister. People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut said the decision to side with Bhumjaithai was to prevent interference by powerful interests outside of politics, or the return of a coalition government that was not fit to rule again. A parliamentary vote on a new prime minister could take place on Friday, he said. – Reuters The Alliance, a coalition of women led civil society groups, had called off a planned protest on Monday citing the risk of a violent response by authorities. “We want to show that protests are mostly peaceful,” said 30-year-old Rizky Ananda, who was demonstrating against violence against people, and women in particular, as well as wasteful government spending. “If the government said protests were treasonous, it should be questionable.” President Prabowo Subianto has said the military and police would stand firm against violence, and said on Sunday that some of the unrest bore the signs of terrorism and treason. The National Commission on Human Rights was investigating how the security forces handled the protests, commissioner Anis Hidayah told journalists on Tuesday. – Reuters

royal prerogative,” he said of the endorsement required by King Maha Vajiralongkorn. However, there are conflicting opinions among law experts in Thailand, as to whether a caretaker government has the authority to seek house dissolution. Anutin, 58, a former health minister, who campaigned successfully to decriminalise cannabis, said he would lead a minority government that would stay in power for only four months until a new election could be called. He said his coalition included seven parties and groups comprising 146 parliamentary seats. The decisive player will be the hugely popular opposition People’s Party, whose predecessor won the 2023 election on an anti

Paetongtarn was the sixth premier from or backed by the Shinawatra family to be ousted by the military or judiciary and the second in the space of a year. Pheu Thai, founded and driven from behind the scenes by tycoon Thaksin Shinawatra, sought to head off Anutin’s gambit by petitioning the monarch to approve the dissolution of parliament. The party argued it was necessary to end the political impasse and stabilise a troubled economy. “The situation right now shows how the democratic system has been twisted,” said Pheu Thai’s Phumtham Wechayachai, the acting prime minister. “We decided to hand power back to the people to decide. But this is a

BR I E F S

Indonesian women join protests JAKARTA: Hundreds of women dressed in pink joined protests in Indonesia’s capital yesterday against lawmakers’ perks and police brutality, brandishing brooms as a symbol of their calls for reform, while the president flew to China for a military parade.

The women carried signs with slogans such as“reform the police”and “your sweet promises cause diabetes”, as well as the brooms which protest organiser, The Alliance of Indonesian Women, said symbolised a need to “sweep the state’s dirt ... and the repressiveness of security forces”. The protests that began in Jakarta last week have rocked the world’s third-largest democracy, with the demonstrations escalating after a police vehicle hit and killed a motorcycle taxi driver on Thursday night. Rights groups say 10 people have died in the protests, which have also sparked some looting and rioting.

Women raring to ‘clean up’ in Jakarta yesterday. – REUTERSPIC