5/09/2025

Mindef wants more undergrad cadets to join Armed Forces Ministry looking into low percentage of Reserve Officers Training Unit members serving after leaving varsity.

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Malaysia falling short on protecting its most vulnerable, with babies sexually abused, exploited for profit and sold like merchandise using falsified documents: NGO Gaps in child protection system Report on h page 3

The Child Rights Innovation and Betterment Foundation has expressed alarm after police rescued five children, including two babies, who were allegedly abused to produce photos and videos for a paedophile syndicate. – AI GENERATED IMAGE BY AZURA ABAS

Minister warns social media platform continued inaction could trigger enforcement under existing or new laws. TikTok told to step up action against online threats

Teen must have either jumped or swung herself before being found unconscious near school dormitory, inquest told. Zara’s injuries consistent with fall, not from assault: Pathologist

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Budget 2026 to strengthen housing reform PUTRAJAYA: As preparations for the upcoming Budget 2026 to be unveiled in October are underway, the government will also examine support mechanisms to strengthen housing reform, with a focus on expanding access to affordable housing, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said the government is committed to ensuring that more Malaysians, especially those in the lower and middle-income groups, can own homes that are within their financial means. Amir Hamzah said reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) are also designed to address housing challenges, including the development of new models such as rent-to-own schemes and a gradual shift towards a build-then-sell approach to reduce the risk of abandoned projects. “Affordable housing will continue to be a priority for Malaysia going forward, and we are looking at new mechanisms to ensure more people can own and afford homes,” he told reporters after launching the Property Information System Malaysia 2.0 yesterday. Commenting on the increase in the overhang of residential units since the first quarter of this year, Amir Hamzah said the overall property market remains stable, but reforms are needed to address structural issues. “The key for us is that the overall market is still stable. What is important is to support the segment that needs it most, especially affordable housing,” he said. Amir Hamzah noted that housing affordability is closely linked with income levels, stressing that the government has been implementing wide ranging labour market reforms to strengthen household purchasing power. “We have seen initiatives such as minimum wage increases, the push for progressive wages and encouragement for companies to adopt living wages. These are aimed at improving affordability by raising income levels.” To complement these measures, Amir Hamzah highlighted the Housing Credit Guarantee Scheme, which allows those without a fixed income to secure housing loans through government guarantees. He said these are creative solutions to help people get onto the property ladder. “But the most important area remains fixing the basis of affordability in the country, which includes strengthening income levels.” – Bernama King presents appointment letters to envoys KUALA LUMPUR: His Majesty, the King of Malaysia Sultan Ibrahim presented instruments of appointment to seven Malaysian envoys assigned to missions abroad and also received the letters of credence from seven foreign envoys to Malaysia at Istana Negara yesterday. The seven envoys who received their instruments of appointment from His Majesty are ambassadors Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah (Thailand), Datuk Syed Mohamad Bakri Syed Abdul Rahman (Saudi Arabia), Datuk Mohammad Ali Selamat (Brazil), Mohamad Razdan Jamil (Germany), Haznah Md Hashim (Spain), Datuk Azri Mat Yacob (Poland) and Malaysian High Commissioner to South Africa Datuk Yubazlan Yusof. His Majesty also accepted the credentials of seven foreign envoys to Malaysia – Karim Mohamed Elsadat Abdelkarim Abdelkhalek (Egypt), Silke Riecken-Daerr (Germany), Daniella Ortega de Paiva Menezes (Brazil), Gerhad Eisl (Austria), Hennadii Nadolenko (Ukraine), Marianne Fosland (Norway) and Raffaele Langella (Italy). Also present at the event were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Foreign Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin and Istana Negara Comptroller Tan Sri Dr Azmi Rohani. – Bernama

EV plant launch highlights close ties with China: PM TANJONG MALIM: The launch of the first Proton electric vehicle (EV) factory in Malaysia yesterday reflects the close cooperation between Malaysia and China through Proton and its strategic partner, Geely, thus driving the country’s automotive industry to a higher level. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the results of the collaboration not only involved investment but also evidence of commitment to technology transfer and opportunities to train local engineers towards mastering future automotive technology. President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, their willingness to cooperate has been proven. “This is proven because not only do they benefit from the collaboration in this field and industry, but their willingness to transfer technology and provide space for locals (to be involved in the industry),” he said at the launch of the Proton EV factory yesterday. Also present were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang and Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. Anwar said the development of the Proton EV factory is in line with the country’s key policies, including the energy transition, industrial master plan and national automotive policy, all of which emphasise mastering high technology. “The launch of this EV factory fulfils several policies. Firstly, our climate policy, namely the energy transition. Secondly, it also fulfils what we call our industrial roadmap and master plan and, of course, the national automotive policy.” Anwar also expressed his appreciation to the Proton workers for their high commitment to making the historic project a success. “I want to thank the government of China because, in several of our meetings with

“But at the same time, we must ensure it is safe, especially for children.” Fahmi added that Meta Platforms Inc – which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp – and X (formerly Twitter) would be summoned next for talks with police and MCMC. At a separate event, he said Meta had been called up following a surge in scam-related complaints from the public and police. “Since Meta’s cooperation so far has been unconvincing, I have instructed that they be invited for further discussion. The platforms are clearly not taking the issue seriously. Every platform will be summoned.” Fahmi also assured that the government is on track to enforce the Online Safety Act (Onsa) by October, giving regulators stronger powers against platforms rather than targeting only individual posts. “Unlike the Communications and Multimedia Act, which applies to specific content, Onsa will cover platforms directly. If the Online Safety Committee decides, for instance, that deepfakes constitutes an offence, every licensed platform will be required to act. “This is about giving Malaysia stronger tools to deal with scams, cyberbullying and harmful online content.” While affirming that the government respects freedom of expression, Fahmi said it has a duty to keep online spaces safe and ensure platforms cooperate with regulators and law enforcement. “The people’s right to speak will always be defended, but platforms must also take responsibility. Right now, they are too passive. That has to change.” “Thank you to all the workers who have shown their determination, talent and discipline to ensure its success, not only to uphold the good name of the company but also that of our beloved country.” Anwar also hopes that the Proton EV cars could be rolled out from the new plant before the 47th Asean Summit in October to be showcased to more than 20 heads of state attending the summit. The factory was developed on a 2.2ha site, with construction costs estimated at RM82 million. In the first phase, it will produce the Proton EV e.MAS 7 model, followed by the second model – the e.MAS 6 – in the second phase, with the date yet to be specified. For the first phase, the plant has the capacity to produce about 20,000 EV units annually and once fully completed production capacity is expected to rise to 45,000 units per year. The factory is equipped with advanced digital systems, dedicated EV areas such as battery assembly, high-voltage safety, electrical testing and EV underbody integration. – Bernama

Anwar salutes as an e.MAS vehicle drives past him at the Proton EV factory yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC

Malaysia warns TikTok over online safety failures o Govt demands transparency as Online Safety Act set to expand regulatory powers by October, says Fahmi

Ű BY HARITH KAMAL newsdesk@thesundaily.com

better known as Esha, who suffered severe online harassment before her death. Following the incident, TikTok pledged to hire more moderators, especially for Tamil language content and TikTok Live streams. “Until today, they have failed to give us the numbers. We have asked repeatedly, but no answers. This is very serious. We continue to receive complaints from the Indian community about cyberbullying on TikTok.” He also raised alarm over children under 13 using TikTok, despite platform rules prohibiting them from having accounts. “In many of my school visits, I have seen pupils as young as Year 1 using TikTok. It clearly shows the system is failing.” Fahmi urged TikTok to develop stronger age verification systems, pointing to Singapore, Australia and China as examples where apps restrict functions such as commenting or sharing unless users verify their identity. “This is urgent. It is not just about content, but about the online safety of children and families.” Despite mounting complaints, Fahmi ruled out banning TikTok, stressing that the government’s priority is compliance with Malaysian law, not blocking platforms. “The government has no intention of banning TikTok. People use it to sell products, to livestream events and for many other positive purposes.

KUALA LUMPUR: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has warned TikTok to step up action against online harms or face legal consequences, stressing that the government will not tolerate platforms that drag their feet on public safety. Fahmi said he was deeply dissatisfied with TikTok’s slow response to requests from Malaysian authorities, warning that continued inaction could trigger enforcement under existing or new laws. “From Jan 1 to Aug 31 this year, MCMC data shows 76,002 pieces of content were removed from TikTok. However, 10,730 flagged items were not acted upon, which means the takedown rate stands at 86%. “The decisions are made by the platform based on its own community guidelines. Even when MCMC requests removal, TikTok will not act if it deems the content acceptable under its rules. This cannot continue,” he said after meeting TikTok representatives at Bukit Aman yesterday. He said TikTok had repeatedly failed to provide clarity on safety measures, particularly in moderating Tamil-language content, curbing cyberbullying and blocking underage access. Fahmi cited the case of Rajeswary Appahu,

FRIDAY | SEPT 5, 2025

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Foundation sounds alarm over gaps in child protection

are brought to justice. “Another hard truth is that while laws and court procedures have been updated since 2017, victim support has barely improved. Malaysia still relies heavily on NGOs, which operate with minimal government aid or funding.” Srividhya outlined urgent steps, including never sharing or forwarding child sexual abuse material and reporting it immediately to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, the National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children or the Internet Watch Foundation’s Report Remove service, and encouraging schools and communities to make reporting routine. She also urged widespread training to help people recognise and report abuse, making workplaces and tech platforms safer, providing greater support for NGOs and placing children’s safety at the heart of policymaking. “The adage that it takes a village to raise a child is truer now than ever. We must educate all levels of society on child protection, teach children their rights and ensure everyone knows when and how to raise the alarm if a child is at risk,” she said.

o Advocate group calls for stronger social work, community awareness and prevention first policies in wake of systemic failures revealed in paedophile syndicate case

Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com

also hampered by misconceptions. “Officers often believe they must first identify or interview a child in a child sexual abuse material before acting, but the law does not require this. “We also miss obvious touchpoints. Every baby in Malaysia receives free vaccinations under the National Immunisation Programme, which could help detect neglect, fake identities or trafficking risks if frontline staff were properly trained to respond.” Srividhya stressed that protecting children and preventing opportunities for abuse should take priority over merely catching predators. Frequent officer transfers, she said, erode expertise, while a lack of trained frontliners means laws such as the Sexual Offences Against Children Act (SOACA) 2017 are under utilised. “Public reporting is also hampered by complex procedures

PETALING JAYA: They may be too young to understand or recall but infants who are sexually abused carry the trauma in their bodies and brains for life, said child clinical psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli ( pic ). “Sexual abuse of an infant is extremely harmful. A two-month-old cannot understand or remember the event, but their body and brain register extreme stress, pain and violation. “Immediate effects include injury, disrupted feeding and sleep, and intense physiological stress.” Noor Aishah said trauma at such a young age can derail attachment, emotional regulation, trust in adults and healthy development. Warning signs may include fearfulness, regression, sleep disturbance or aggression. She said recovery is possible with stable caregivers and trauma-focused interventions such as play therapy or child–parent psychotherapy. However, early abuse raises the risk of anxiety, depression and relationship difficulties later in life. “Children without early intervention face higher risks of mental health and relationship problems, although support later in life can still help them grow into healthy adults. Trauma does not define destiny,” she said. While Malaysia has skilled professionals, Noor Aishah said services for severe infant abuse remain uneven and often unavailable outside major cities. She warned that many counsellors lack experience with infants and children under five, leaving a serious gap in therapy options. “The public often underestimates the long-term harm, focusing on visible injuries while overlooking hidden developmental and mental health effects. “This leads to underfunding, delayed referrals and inadequate follow-up care.” She called for a coordinated national response involving medical, psychological, social and legal services. “This should include trauma-focused therapy, multidisciplinary child protection teams in every state, frontline worker training, stronger reporting pathways with privacy safeguards and support for caregivers to ensure children do not “fall through the cracks”. – By QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI Infant sexual abuse leaves lifelong scars: Psychologist

PETALING JAYA: Infants sold like goods, their births falsified, sexually abused and exploited for profit – Malaysia’s child protection system is struggling to shield its most vulnerable, warns the Child Rights Innovation and Betterment (CRIB) Foundation. The alarm follows a shocking case uncovered through Ops Pedo, in which police rescued three children and two infants allegedly abused to produce photos and videos for a paedophile syndicate. The material was circulated online for money, rewards and exchanges among group members. The victims, aged between two months and five years, were also believed to have been sold through social media. Pregnant mothers were allegedly offered between RM1,500 and RM3,500, with syndicate members even covering hospital delivery bills. CRIB co-chairperson Srividhya Ganapathy (pic) said the case reflected shortcomings across multiple agencies. “This is a clear example of how our child protection mechanisms fail children at every turn, from civil registration, health and welfare, to policing, immigration and even online platforms. “We have reactive solutions that emerge only after a new case sparks public outrage. But these responses are rarely nuanced, researched or collaborative. They are often rolled out simply to say there was a problem but it has been fixed and it’s time to move on.” She noted that despite Malaysia’s upgrade to Tier 2 in the US Trafficking in Persons Report last year, gaps persist in an overstretched welfare system with too few trained staff. The long-awaited Social Workers Bill, she added, still fails to certify public social workers. Aside from that, enforcement is

and fear of backlash, leaving many cases unreported,” she said. She urged a systemic overhaul, starting with lawmakers. “While progress has been made in strengthening laws, resistance to expert advice remains. Too many consultations are done superficially, which means we are not getting the best systems possible.” Malaysia, she stressed, must honour its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child to protect all children, regardless of whether their abusers

Srividhya stressed that protecting children and preventing opportunities for abuse should take priority over merely apprehending predators. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN

Schools to install CCTV systems in hostels nationwide KOTA BHARU: A total of 200 schools with hostels nationwide will soon be fitted with closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras under a RM3 million allocation, said Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad. stages, based on the needs and student numbers at each school. “Larger hostels with more students will be given priority,” he told reporters after opening the 63rd National Education Management Conference yesterday.

now, there are no plans to hire retired army or police personnel. “Since hostels are part of an educational institution, the role of teacher wardens remains crucial. “When wardens are also teachers, they can plan educational activities for students. “There is also a suggestion that these wardens should only teach four to five hours a week, with the rest of their time devoted to hostel supervision,” he said. – Bernama

“We cannot install them arbitrarily, including in toilets. We do not want to compromise privacy and as there are laws to observe, we are being very careful.” Mohd Azam also revealed that the ministry plans to increase the number of hostel wardens, following a proposal from the Malaysian School Principals Council. “For student safety, the government will do its best. For

He said the move aims to enhance student safety in school compounds, particularly in hostel areas. Mohd Azam said CCTV installation would be carried out in

He added for government schools, the management would seek expert advice on the placement of cameras in dormitories.

FRIDAY | SEP T 5, 2025

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Defence Ministry seeks to strengthen reserve force

RM93b under 13MP for state infrastructure KUALA LUMPUR: The 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) sets the direction for the country’s economic development by reducing regional disparities and driving strategic investments, said Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan. He said RM93.9 billion will be channelled to six states – Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, Terengganu, Sabah and Sarawak for basic infrastructure such as roads, clean water supply, electricity and internet access. “A total of 2,800km of rural roads will be built under the 13MP and 70% of them will be constructed in less developed states,” he said when winding up the debate on the 13MP motion at the Dewan Negara on Wednesday. He said regional development would also be strengthened through high-impact projects such as the Kedah Rubber City, Special Border Economic Zones in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Perlis Inland Port, Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park and the Maritime Industrial City. On the east coast, Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu are targeted as food production hubs, while Sarawak will drive hydro-based energy and hydrogen technology. “During the 13MP, the target investment value to be realised by the corridor authorities is RM75 billion, with 50,000 skilled job opportunities to be created.” He added that the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone has attracted RM1.34 billion in investment commitments, with another RM75 million under negotiation involving 70 companies from the Netherlands, China, Germany, Singapore, the UK and local investors. Amir Hamzah, who is also economy minister, said the broader aim of the 13MP is to ensure Malaysia stays competitive via digitalisation, technology and innovation. “The direction of the 13MP revolves around the three pillars of the Madani Economy, raising the ceiling, raising the floor and strengthening good governance. To raise the ceiling, economic development must shift to a value creation-based economy.” – Bernama SSLR Phase 2 set for Sept 11 launch KUCHING: Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi said the Sarawak Sabah Link Road (SSLR) Phase 2 is set to be officially launched on Sept 11, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg in attendance. The launch would take place at one of the sites along the SSLR Phase 2 route in Limbang, which is currently under construction. “The proposed date for the event is Sept 11. Invitations have been sent, and we have received confirmation that both the prime minister and the Sarawak premier will attend the ceremony,” he told a press conference after the Sarawak 2025 Facility Management Industry Engagement Session in Kuching. He added that this month marks the first anniversary of the Letter of Acceptance issued to the company responsible for the road construction. The SSLR project is a key initiative aimed at improving the road network in rural Borneo, enhancing connectivity between Sarawak and Sabah. Phase 2 of the project involves a 322km road link that connects Limbang, Miri, Lawas and Sabah, bypassing Brunei. Approved by the federal government in 2021, it involves building new roads and upgrading existing ones to link Lawas with Limbang and Mulu town. – Bernama

SERDANG: Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the Defence Ministry will study the reasons behind the low participation of Reserve Officers Training Unit members in the Armed Forces (MAF) after their graduation. He said the initiative would include improving the curriculum and training content to ensure that the participation of students at a university level brings lasting o Initiative to include improved curriculum and training content for lasting benefits: Minister

participation is also crucial for the ministry’s target of achieving a one-to-one ratio between regular and reserve soldiers, compared with the current 121,000 regulars and 34,000 reserves. Mohd Nizam said only about 9% of cadets join the MAF upon graduation each year, while another 30% do so after securing employment. On a separate matter, Mohamed Khaled said the Defence Ministry would utilise allocations prudently if the government approves the proposal to raise defence spending to 1.5% of Gross Domestic Product by 2030. “The focus is to strengthen military assets and realise the establishment of the MAF future force. Everything must follow the rules, it does not mean that once funds are available, we can just buy anything.”

benefits and does not end without continuity after graduation. “We want more of them (students) to at least become reserve members of the MAF. We will also look into the factors preventing them from continuing to serve after leaving university,” he told Bernama after delivering the Defence Minister’s Executive Lecture at Universiti Putra Malaysia yesterday. Also present were Defence Force chief Jen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar and Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali. The Reserve Officers Training Unit is a military programme at public universities involving the three branches of the MAF – the Army, Navy and Air Force, aimed at producing young reserve officers with discipline, vision and patriotism. Mohamed Khaled said strengthening

Mohamed Khaled said strengthening participation is crucial for the ministry’s target of achieving a one-to-one ratio between regular and reserve soldiers, compared with the current 121,000 regulars and 34,000 reserves. – BERNAMAPIC

TVET for PwD among Budget 2026 proposals: DPM PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes tailored for persons with disabilities (PwD), along with greater involvement of school students, are among proposals for Budget 2026. for the PwD community. I will take this matter to the National TVET Council and then to the Finance Ministry to be considered as one of the agenda items in the Budget speech on Oct 10. “This matter will be studied together with state-level religious schools, as proposed.” The dialogue session involved 1,050 participants, comprising 300 who attended physically and another 750 who joined online from across the country, including Sabah and Sarawak.

“What is important is that PwD and other special groups must be given equal opportunities to pursue courses aligned with their interests and market demand,” he told reporters after chairing the KKDW Budget 2026 Dialogue Session yesterday. He added that there was also a proposal for pondok school students to be given the same opportunity to participate in TVET programmes, similar to those already extended to tahfiz students.

The session aimed to gather views and proposals from various stakeholders to ensure the formulation of Budget 2026 is more inclusive and comprehensive. It was also in line with the government’s decision on Aug 1 to make it mandatory for all ministries to hold budget engagement sessions with their respective stakeholders. – Bernama

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development minister, said the matter would be raised at the National TVET Council and submitted to the Finance Ministry for consideration as one of the key agenda items in Budget 2026, which is scheduled to be tabled on Oct 10. “This time, the proposal is somewhat different as it involves TVET courses specifically

FRIDAY | SEPT 5, 2025

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Hawker stalls shut down after 60 years in business

IPOH: A woman who attempted to approach the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, during the state-level National Day parade, has been referred to Hospital Bahagia Ulu Kinta in Tanjung Rambutan for observation. Perak police chief Datuk Noor Hisam Nordin said the 41-year-old suspect was sent to the hospital after her remand expired on Wednesday, under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001 (Act 615). “The investigation has been completed and referred to the state deputy public prosecutor’s office. “We will provide updates on the case from time to time.” He also advised the public to refrain from making any unfounded speculation, as it could interfere with the process and jeopardise public order. On Aug 31, the woman, who has a history of psychiatric treatment and a drug-related record, was arrested when she attempted to approach Sultan Nazrin on the grandstand while the Perak state anthem was Car plunges into river: Siblings die PORT DICKSON: A boy and his sister drowned while their parents survived after the family’s parked car slid into Sungai Tanjung Agas yesterday. District police chief Supt Maslan Udin said a distress call was received at 11.24am involving the parents, both in their 40s, and their children aged six and eight, who had stopped to rest and fish when their car slid into the river. “The father was outside the car while the mother was rescued by the public. The two children went under with the vehicle and were later pulled out at 1.24pm and 1.47pm, but were confirmed dead at the scene.” Maslan said the siblings were found in the front passenger compartment, adding that the vehicle may have suffered a technical problem despite the engine being switched off. The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1957. – Bernama Driver charged with murder IPOH: A lorry driver was charged in the Magistrate’s Court here yesterday with murder. M.I. Saravanan, 32, nodded after the charge was read out to him before Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan. However, no plea was recorded as the case is under the jurisdiction of the High Court. He was charged under Section 302 of the Penal Code with murdering a man in an alley of a hotel building at Jalan Horley on Aug 27. He faces the death penalty or imprisonment of not less than 30 years and a maximum of 40 years, and not less than 12 strokes of the cane. No bail was granted and the court set Nov 4 for mention. – Bernama

o Traders told land needed for drainage and parking upgrade

selling food for more than 25 years, said the hawkers were summoned to a meeting in July and told to vacate by Aug 8. “They only gave us a new place, no cash compensation. We had to follow. We have been here so long, but we cannot fight the rules.” For the hawkers, the warongs were more than businesses, they were homes where livelihoods were built, children grew up and generations of regulars were fed. As they prepare to move on, they carry not only their recipes and equipment, but also the memories of a place that united the community. theSun contacted the city council for comment but no response was received at press time.

is limited and it is so congested that even cooking would be a challenge. They have given us a place somewhere near Seksyen 51a. “I worry about whether customers would come, but what choice do we have? This stall is our livelihood, our way of supporting our families. To walk away from here is heartbreaking.” Ali, 32, who has run his stall for 11 years, admitted the sudden eviction had forced him to rethink his future. “I thought I would just focus on earning here, save money and continue working. I did not want to think about marriage yet. But with just one month’s notice to leave, everything has changed. I feel sad.” Another operator, Shahilabanu Abdul Malik, 52, who has been

Traders were told the land was needed for drainage and parking upgrades, but were informed they would not be allowed to return once works were completed. “I said if you want to do the drain, that is fine, I could even use my own money to rebuild the shop later. But they strictly refused.” Another hawker, who has been selling Indian food for 20 years and asked not to be named, said leaving was painful. “This place has been here for 60 years. My stall has been here for 20 years, while the one at the end has been here for more than 50 years. We had no electricity but still we stayed. “We have fed so many people here and built so many memories. The new place is small, the parking

Ű BY KIRTINEE RAMESH newsdesk@thesundaily.com

being played. Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the state government has accepted full responsibility for the incident, adding that it would not point fingers at any party, as the incident occurred unexpectedly. “It is a wake up call for everyone to be alert to security matters, not only (at events) involving dignitaries such as the menteri besar or exco (state executive council members), but also public figures who attract large crowds,” he told a press conference after the Empower Tahfiz Programme at the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building on Wednesday. He also expressed admiration for Sultan Nazrin’s calm demeanour despite the incident, adding that he remained on stage until the event concluded. “His Royal Highness remained composed, received the royal salute, carried on as scheduled and even mingled with the people afterwards.” – Bernama PETALING JAYA: After more than six decades of serving the community, a row of stalls at Jalan 51/217 in PJS 51 has been ordered to shut down, leaving operators devastated as they prepare to leave behind a place filled with memories, friendships and loyal customers. For many, the move marks not just the loss of a business site but also the end of a shared history. One hawker, whose family has run a stall for four generations, said it felt like part of her life was being taken away. She has been operating there since 1998, opening daily at 5am and serving more than 300 customers until closing time at 2pm. “This place is very strategic because of the parking and the community. I have so many regulars and over the years, the other hawkers have also become like family to me. “Now, we are being separated after knowing each other for so long, and it is very hard for me.” The hawkers claimed they were not given proper written notice before being told to vacate. “They just called us for a meeting with (the Petaling Jaya City Council) and told us we had one month. Today is our last day here and I feel so sad. “I wanted to pass this business down to my children for the next generation, but now (the situation) does not allow it.”

Shahilabanu said they were summoned to a meeting in July and told to vacate by Aug 8. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Woman who rushed at Perak Sultan sent for psychiatric observation

Injuries of Zara Qairina consistent with fall, not assault: Pathologist

KOTA KINABALU: Queen Elizabeth Hospital Forensic Medicine Department pathologist Dr Jessie Hiu, who conducted a post-mortem on the late Zara Qairina Mahathir, told the Coroner’s Court yesterday that the teenager must have either jumped or swung herself before she was found unconscious near her school dormitory on July 16. She said the conclusion was based on the position and location the teenager was discovered. She was responding to a question from the conducting officer, Deputy Head of Prosecution II Datuk Badius Zaman Ahmad, on the second day of the inquest into the death of the Form One student. In her witness statement on Tuesday, Hiu said based on the height and width of the concrete railing, the height of the horizontal metal rails and the deceased’s antemortem height, it was possible for the victim to climb the railing,

traffic (crashes). The fractures to the lumbar vertebrae were caused by internal force, not from an external direct impact.” She also said injuries caused by assault generally involve significant force, with extensive overlying skin and soft tissue damage. Zara Qairina was pronounced dead at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on July 17, a day after she was found unconscious in a drain near her school dormitory at about 4am. On Aug 13, the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) announced an inquest would be conducted into her death after reviewing an investigation report submitted by police. On Aug 8, the AGC ordered the exhumation of her remains for a post-mortem. The hearing continues before the coroner, Sessions Court Judge Amir Shah Amir Hassan. – Bernama

cross over the metal rails and stand on top of it. During yesterday’s proceedings, she also verified several photographs produced by Badius Zaman, taken during a demonstration at the scene on Aug 2 by a medical officer who had assisted her during the investigation. When questioned by lawyer Azhier Farhan Arisin, representing four juveniles charged with bullying Zara Qairina, Hiu said there was no forensic evidence to support the claim that the victim had been assaulted into unconsciousness before being placed at the scene. When asked if the injuries resembled those caused by repeated blows from blunt objects, she said that was not seen in the case. “The fractures sustained in both of her feet were severe and would require a high-impact force, typically seen in falls from a height or road

FRIDAY | SEP T 5, 2025

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Nationwide cheer over Sara aid

Govt keen to buffer cost of living impact Ű BY QIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI newsdesk@thesundaily.com PETALING JAYA: The government has ramped up efforts to cushion households from the rising cost of living, with 15,308 Jualan Rahmah Madani Programme sessions held nationwide between Jan 1 and Aug 31. Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali told the Senate yesterday that this was a marked increase compared with 12,419 sessions in 2024 and 6,870 in 2023. “Following the additional allocations announced by the prime minister on July 23, the ministry has set a target of 20,000 sessions in 2025, representing a 191% increase from 2023 and a 61% rise from 2024,” he said. As of Tuesday, 1,234 strategic partners have participated in the programme, including hypermarkets, supermarkets, wholesalers, grocery shops, cooperatives, logistics providers, organisations and 48 public markets. Launched under the Payung Rahmah framework, the programme offers items at 10% to 30% below market prices. The initiative will cover 222 parliamentary constituencies, 600 state seats and 40 zones in the Federal Territories. Armizan also said precautionary measures were taken to stabilise supply and pricing following the government’s additional RM100 Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) cash aid for 22 million adult recipients, involving over RM2 billion in expenditure. “Among the steps taken are enhanced enforcement inspections, with 8,438 premises checked between Aug 31 and Sept 2, as well as daily monitoring of 1,160 premises covering 316 essential items by price monitoring officers. All items under the Sara programme have also been added to the ministry’s monitoring list,” he said. Between Aug 31 and Tuesday, the ministry received five official complaints, including two related to Sara. Armizan stressed that under its SOP, all complaints on pricing and supply must be resolved within 24 hours by the ministry. More than 2.9 million recipients used the cash aid in the first three days, with public spending hitting RM192.4 million nationwide. The Finance Ministry said the highest volume was recorded on Tuesday, with over 1.1 million transactions.

KUALA LUMPUR: The one-off Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) cash aid of RM100, an amount previously questioned by some quarters, has proven to significantly ease household expenses while also stimulating the domestic economy. Since the aid was distributed to all Malaysians aged 18 and above starting on National Day last Sunday, social media platforms have been flooded with posts of recipients sharing how they used the assistance to purchase basic necessities. In Kuala Lumpur, many recipients told Bernama they regard the aid as a meaningful gesture that helps the B40 group cope with the rising cost of living. For Nabila Mohd Azmai, 36, from Damansara, the aid arrived at a crucial time, as her household currently relies solely on her husband’s income. “This assistance really helps with buying rice, eggs and other dry goods for the month. Although wet items aren’t covered under Sara, being able to get rice and eggs is enough,” she said when met at a supermarket here. Another aid recipient, Zamri Ahmad, 55, said the cash assistance not only allows people from all income levels to obtain necessities at reasonable prices but also helps small traders clear their stock. “I came to buy other items but noticed the essentials that can be purchased with Sara. Alhamdulillah , at least I can help those in need while getting various items at affordable prices,” said the executive officer of a private company. The positive impact of the initiative was also felt outside the capital. In Pahang, single mother and factory operator Norlia Abdullah, 48, said the aid was a great relief, enabling her to stretch her household expenses for more than a month. She paid just an additional RM1.85 for a basket of kitchen essentials that included rice, cooking oil, snacks, fast food, laundry items and personal hygiene products, worth over RM200, after combining the RM100 Sara assistance with her monthly MyKasih aid. o Recipients commend hassle-free initiative to ease burden of rising costs

Many Sara recipients have commended the aid as a meaningful gesture that helps the B40 group cope with the rising cost of living. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

children to be set aside for emergencies, especially during the flood season. Her eldest child and son-in-law said they intend to use the aid to purchase baby essential items. “All three of my children, aged between 22 and 27, still live with me. Two of them help out at the restaurant, while the youngest is disabled and has autism. Renting a separate home is costly, so we chose to stay together and save where we can,” she said. “To be honest, my income is just enough to cover food, housing and car payments. That’s why I felt truly grateful and moved when the prime minister announced the aid. I have never received any assistance before, not even under the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah cash aid,” she said. In Kelantan, Ab Manaf Mat Shah, 68, said the Sara assistance was more than just financial aid, but also an opportunity to instil the habit of spending wisely and prudently within his family. The businessman said all nine of his children, their spouses and three grandchildren aged 18 and above were eligible for the aid, bringing the total amount received to RM2,100. He added that the funds would be used thoughtfully, prioritising essential needs. The Sara assistance, distributed via MyKad beginning Aug 31, benefits 22 million Malaysians with a total allocation of RM2 billion.

Meanwhile, housewife Zakiah Che Mat Mokhtar, 50, expressed hope that the Sara assistance could eventually be extended to cover wet items as well, Bernama reported. “Items with the Sara tag are fine, but it would be even better if wet goods were included, since prices of essentials like chicken and vegetables have also gone up slightly.” In Selangor, Aifa Natasha Azmi, 28, a mother of two young children, said the combination of the Sara assistance and her husband’s allocation enabled them to pay just RM1.25 for 27 basic items, including rice, eggs and other items, under the MyKasih programme. “Normally, we would spend about RM200 a month on dry goods. But this month, our family has an extra RM200 to allocate for other needs,” said the private sector employee. She added that redeeming the Sara assistance was also convenient, as recipients only need to shop at selected supermarkets as many are located close to home and simply follow the list of eligible items. Another private sector employee, Nor Zamira Che Noh, 32, said she plans to use the aid to stock up on dry food in preparation for the year-end flood season that frequently affects the area. In Terengganu, single mother and restaurant owner Norharizan Hassan, 47, said the aid was carefully planned with her two

FRIDAY | SEPT 5, 2025

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Philippine groups demand graft probe MANILA: An alliance of 30 influential Philippine business and civic organisations is demanding an independent investigation into what it describes as “excessive corruption” linked to government infrastructure projects. The call for action comes after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr disclosed last month the results of an internal audit into flood control projects, revealing troubling patterns of irregularity. Key findings showed that out of US$9.63 billion (RM40.73 billion) in flood control spending since 2022, thousands of projects were either substandard, poorly documented or non-existent. Some carried identical costs despite being in different locations, and only 15 out of more than 2,000 accredited contractors cornered 20% of the total budget. The allegations have spurred legislative inquiries in both chambers of Congress, and Marcos has said he will create an independent commission to investigate “these nefarious activities”. The alliance expressed “outrage, disgust and disappointment” over the “shameful, unabated, continuing and excessive acts of graft and corruption” by many officials in Congress, the executive department and local government units. “While we take note of the president admonishing the corrupt in government, we are concerned that the guilty among these officials will continue their merry way of robbing the people and filling their pockets,” the groups said in a statement. They described the acts as a betrayal of public trust and a “treasonous” offence against Filipinos. There was no immediate comment from the offices of the president, the house speaker and senate president. The controversy has already led to the resignation of the public works secretary. His successor, Vince Dizon, has suspended all bidding for locally funded flood control projects, ordered courtesy resignations of all public works officials, and vowed to permanently blacklist contractors involved in fraudulent projects.

Asean solidarity drives cross-border orders

and food delivery app Grab to place the order that ended up with Rizky. “The calls tell us all to contribute to what’s happening in Indonesia ... to show support by sending food,” the 23-year-old Kuala Lumpur resident said. The orders are usually accompanied by a note that reads the drivers can take the food or give it to their families. Rizky received a similar message from Ayman on a slow Wednesday, when several schools and offices were shut in Jakarta over the protests. “We were surprised that in recent days, some foreign nationals have shown concern for us,” he said. On a major Jakarta street last week, hundreds of motorcycle drivers flanked a vehicle carrying Affan’s body to the cemetery. Most worked for Grab and Gojek, operated by Indonesia’s biggest tech company GoTo. Grab has seen an uptick in orders from overseas for delivery within Indonesia over the past week, a spokesperson told Reuters, declining to say by how much or from which countries. Tyas Widyastuti, Grab’s director of mobility and logistics, said the orders came mostly from Southeast and East Asia. A GoTo spokesperson said the company’s ‘Treat Your Driver’ feature “has been welcomed by customers during this period as a gesture of solidarity with driver-partners”

JAKARTA: When Indonesian driver Rizky Azhar received a food delivery order from Malaysia, he was surprised by both the location and the accompanying note, which said the plate of smoked beef with rice was for him. The order was part of a surge in food purchases from other Southeast Asian countries for motorcycle taxi and delivery drivers in Indonesia, a show of solidarity for protests around income inequality and generous perks for lawmakers. The protests spread across the country when delivery driver Affan Kurniawan was run over and killed by a police vehicle in Jakarta, placing the low wages and income precarity of ride-sharing drivers at the heart of the demonstrations. President Prabowo Subianto has said the police and military would stand firm against the protests. But the images of students and workers on the streets have attracted a wave of solidarity, with people across Southeast Asia ordering food for delivery drivers and sharing the screenshots on social media. Over 1,100km from the Indonesian capital, Ayman Hareez Muhammad Adib decided to show his support, using the ride-hailing o Firm reports rise in overseas purchases

An activist holds up a placard during a protest in Jakarta. – REUTERSPIC

In recent years, drivers have routinely protested low pay, lack of employment security and unfair practices by ride-sharing companies. GoTo and Grab have defended their business practices. – Reuters

without specifying whether orders had been placed from overseas. Motorcycle taxis are ubiquitous across Indonesia, including in Jakarta, known for some of the world’s worst traffic congestion.

Rescuers retrieve bodies as toll rises NURGAL: Volunteers and rescuers were pulling more bodies from the rubble of destroyed buildings in eastern Afghanistan yesterday, four days after an earthquake that inflicted a death toll that was already at nearly 1,470 people, authorities said. Wednesday, expectations of finding survivors were fading fast. “Many survivors are still believed to be trapped beneath collapsed homes and the window for finding them alive is rapidly closing,” the World Health Organisation (WHO) said. Poor infrastructure in the

The magnitude-6.0 earthquake that jolted the mountainous region bordering Pakistan on Sunday is one of the deadliest in the country. The toll – 1,469 dead and more than 3,700 injured – will likely rise, said deputy government spokesman Hamdullah Fitrat. “We cannot stop hoping” that injured people remain alive under the rubble, he said. Limited access to the hardest hit areas of Kunar province delayed rescue and relief efforts, with rockfalls from aftershocks obstructing roads etched onto the side of cliffs.

Anutin once backed Paetongtarn’s coalition, but abandoned it over her conduct in the border row with Cambodia that resulted in her ouster last week. He has managed to secure the crucial backing of the 143-seat People’s Party, which is in opposition despite holding the most seats in parliament. – AFP impoverished country, still fragile from four decades of war, has also stymied the emergency response. The WHO warned that local healthcare services were “under immense strain”, with shortages of trauma supplies, medicines and staff. The agency has appealed for US$4 million (RM16.9 million) to deliver lifesaving health interventions and expand mobile health services and supply distribution. “Every hour counts,” WHO emergency team lead in Afghanistan Jamshed Tanoli said. “Hospitals are struggling, families are grieving and survivors have lost everything.” – AFP

Some activist groups have begun mobilising on the ground, and others are calling on the public to take to the streets. – Reuters Thailand set for vote on new PM after parliament dissolution bid rejected While most of the areas that had been unreachable were accessed by Rockfalls have hampered travel on cliffside roads in Nurgal. – AFPPIC

BANGKOK: Thai royal officials rejected a request by the ruling party to dissolve parliament, the country’s acting prime minister said yesterday, clearing the way for a vote that could select his successor. A power vacuum has consumed Thailand’s top office since last Friday, when the Constitutional Court sacked prime minister Paetongtarn

caretaker capacity, he said in a message on Facebook. The path is now clear for MPs to vote for a new leader. Anutin, 58, has previously served as deputy prime minister, interior minister and health minister – but is perhaps most famous for delivering on a promise in 2022 to legalise cannabis.

submitting its request to the palace. But caretaker premier Phumtham Wechayachai said the Office of the Privy Council told him it was “inappropriate to present the draft of the Royal Decree to His Majesty at this time”. The office told him there were “disputed legal issues” over his authority to dissolve parliament in a

Shinawatra over an ethics breach. A coalition of opposition MPs has backed conservative construction magnate Anutin Charnvirakul to take the top office, with a vote scheduled for 10am (11am in Malaysia) today. Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai party, still governing in a caretaking capacity, had attempted to dissolve the legislature and block the vote,